Channel sensing

Abstract

An apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured together with the at least one processor to cause the apparatus to at least: receive control information, the control information including a time slot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and determine, at least in part based on the control information, a type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: analyzing the use of the scheduled channel at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and for the time units preceding the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to channel sensing. Some embodiments relate to channel sensing prior to uplink transmission with flexible frequency division duplex on a channel in different communication systems. Background Technology

[0002] A wireless network consists of multiple network nodes, including terminal nodes and access nodes. Communication between the terminal nodes and access nodes is wireless.

[0003] In some cases, it may be necessary to improve the sharing of channels used for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to various, but not all, embodiments, examples as claimed in the appended claims are provided.

[0005] According to various, but not all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided comprising:

[0006] At least one processor; and

[0007] At least one memory including computer program code;

[0008] The at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0009] Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0010] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0011] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes determining the type of channel sensing to use before simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to initiate uplink transmissions in a time unit occurring on a shared channel.

[0012] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0013] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0014] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: determining not to use channel sensing before initiating uplink transmissions.

[0015] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0016] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0017] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within a time unit in which uplink transmissions are scheduled to initiate; and

[0018] If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one of those time units prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used before initiating the uplink transmission.

[0019] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0020] Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after one or more time units in which an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; and

[0021] If it is determined that a shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated in one or more time units, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating an uplink transmission.

[0022] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0023] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of the shared channel that is scheduled for uplink and / or downlink for time units, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0024] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0025] According to various, but not all, embodiments, a method is provided that includes:

[0026] Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0027] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0028] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes determining the type of channel sensing to use before simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to initiate uplink transmissions in a time unit occurring on a shared channel.

[0029] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0030] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0031] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: determining not to use channel sensing before initiating uplink transmissions.

[0032] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0033] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0034] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within a time unit in which uplink transmissions are scheduled to initiate; and

[0035] If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one of those time units prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used before initiating the uplink transmission.

[0036] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0037] Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after one or more time units in which an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; and

[0038] If it is determined that a shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated in one or more time units, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating an uplink transmission.

[0039] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0040] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel time units scheduled for uplink and / or downlink, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0041] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0042] According to various, but not all, embodiments, a computer program including instructions is provided for causing the apparatus to perform at least the following operations:

[0043] Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0044] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0045] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes determining the type of channel sensing to use before simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to initiate uplink transmissions in a time unit occurring on a shared channel.

[0046] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0047] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0048] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: determining not to use channel sensing before initiating uplink transmissions.

[0049] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0050] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0051] Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within a time unit in which uplink transmissions are scheduled to initiate; and

[0052] If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one of those time units prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used before initiating the uplink transmission.

[0053] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0054] Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after one or more time units in which an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; and

[0055] If it is determined that a shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions occurring immediately after an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated in one or more time units, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating an uplink transmission.

[0056] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0057] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel time units scheduled for uplink and / or downlink, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0058] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0059] In some examples, a UE is provided that includes means as described in any of the preceding paragraphs and / or as described herein.

[0060] According to various, but not all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided comprising:

[0061] At least one processor; and

[0062] At least one memory including computer program code;

[0063] The at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0064] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0065] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0066] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0067] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0068] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0069] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel time units scheduled for uplink and / or downlink, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0070] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0071] In some examples, at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with at least one processor, to cause the device to at least execute:

[0072] Receive one or more uplink transmissions from one or more UEs in at least one UE.

[0073] According to various, but not all, embodiments, a method is provided that includes:

[0074] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0075] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0076] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0077] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0078] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0079] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel time units scheduled for uplink and / or downlink, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0080] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0081] In some examples, at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with at least one processor, to cause the device to at least execute:

[0082] This enables the reception of one or more uplink transmissions from one or more UEs among at least one UE.

[0083] According to various, but not all, embodiments, a computer program including instructions is provided for causing the apparatus to perform at least the following operations:

[0084] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0085] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0086] In some examples, the time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type that is scheduled to occur in a time unit.

[0087] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for a time unit.

[0088] In some examples, control information includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0089] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel time units scheduled for uplink and / or downlink, including time units scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel.

[0090] In some examples, the time slot format indicator includes an indication of the location of the guard band in the shared channel for a time unit.

[0091] In some examples, at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with at least one processor, to cause the device to at least execute:

[0092] Receive one or more uplink transmissions from one or more UEs in at least one UE.

[0093] In some examples, a gNB is provided that includes means as described in any of the preceding paragraphs and / or as described herein.

[0094] According to various, but not all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided that includes components for performing the following operations:

[0095] This enables the reception of control information, including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0096] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0097] In some examples, an apparatus is provided that includes means for performing a method at a UE as described herein.

[0098] According to various, but not all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided that includes components for performing the following operations:

[0099] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0100] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0101] In some examples, an apparatus is provided that includes means for performing a method at a gNB as described herein.

[0102] According to various, but not all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided comprising:

[0103] At least one processor; and

[0104] At least one memory including computer program code;

[0105] The at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0106] Receive control information, the control information including information configured for a client device to control one or more uplink transmissions using at least a portion of a shared channel in one or more time units, wherein the control information includes information configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for these time units, the information including at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0107] Based at least in part on this control information, the form of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission on at least a portion of the channel is determined.

[0108] In addition, the description of the function and / or action should be regarded as also disclosing any components applicable to performing the function and / or action. Attached Figure Description

[0109] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0110] Figure 1 Examples of the topics described in this article are shown;

[0111] Figure 2 Examples of the topics described in this article are shown;

[0112] Figure 3 Examples of the topics described in this article are shown;

[0113] Figure 4 Examples of the topics described in this article are shown;

[0114] Figure 5 Examples of the topics described in this article are shown;

[0115] Figure 6A Examples of the topics described in this article are shown; and

[0116] Figure 6B Examples of the topics described in this article are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0117] Figure 1 An example of network 100 is shown, which includes multiple network nodes, including terminal node 110, access node 120, and one or more core nodes 129. Terminal node 110 communicates with access node 120. One or more core nodes 129 communicate with access node 120.

[0118] In some examples, one or more core nodes 129 can communicate with each other. In some examples, one or more access nodes 120 can communicate with each other.

[0119] Network 100 may be a cellular network comprising multiple cells 122, at least one cell being served by access node 120. In this example, the interface between terminal node 110 and access node 120 defining cell 122 is wireless interface 124.

[0120] Access node 120 is a cellular radio transceiver. Terminal node 110 is a cellular radio transceiver.

[0121] In the example shown, cellular network 100 is a 3GPP network, where terminal node 110 is a user equipment (UE) and access node 120 is a base station.

[0122] In some examples, network 100 is an evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN). This E-UTRAN consists of E-UTRAN NodeBs (eNBs) 120 that provide E-UTRA user plane and control plane protocol termination to UE 110. The eNBs 120 interconnect with each other via X2 interface 126. These eNBs are also connected to the Mobility Management Entity (MME) 129 via S1 interface 128.

[0123] In some examples, network 100 is a next-generation (or new radio, NR) radio access network (NG-RAN). This NG-RAN consists of gNodeBs (gNBs) 120 that provide user plane and control plane protocol termination to UE 110. The gNBs 120 are interconnected with each other via X2 / Xn interfaces 126. These gNBs are also connected to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) via N2 interfaces 128.

[0124] In the example, Figure 1 Communication between the components shown can be made via any number of intermediate components (including no intermediate components).

[0125] Figure 2 An example of method 200 is shown.

[0126] exist Figure 2 In the example, multiple devices communicate across a network. In this example, any suitable form of communication can be used, employing any appropriate network setup. For example, it can be used... Figure 1 At least a portion of the network 100.

[0127] In the example shown, terminal node 110 is communicating with network unit 156, which can be considered as access node 120 and / or a server. Figure 2 In the example, terminal node 110 is user equipment UE144, and access node 120 is gNodeB (gNB).

[0128] In the example, Figure 2 Communication between the components shown can be made via any number of intermediate components (including no intermediate components).

[0129] Despite Figure 2 The example shows one UE 144; however, the example can include any suitable number of UE 144s. For example, any suitable number of UE 144s can communicate with the gNB.

[0130] Similarly, in the example, any suitable number of network units can be included.

[0131] One or more of the following figures can be found: Figure 2 The features discussed.

[0132] At block 202, method 200 includes: determining control information 138, the control information 138 including a time slot format indicator SFI 140 configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for time unit 146, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit in time unit 146.

[0133] In the example, control information 138 includes at least one SFI 140.

[0134] In some examples, control information 138 may be considered to include information for controlling channel sensing type selection before one or more uplink transmissions 142 are performed by at least one UE 144 using at least a portion of the shared channel 148 in one or more time units 146.

[0135] In some examples, control channel sensing can be viewed as controlling the determination of whether at least a portion of shared channel 148 is busy. For example, a portion of shared channel 148 scheduled for uplink transmission 142.

[0136] In some examples, channel sensing can be viewed as an attempt to detect and / or listen for collisions or potential collisions in transmissions on shared channel 148.

[0137] Therefore, in some examples, control channel sensing can be considered as including or controlling how UE 144 attempts to detect and / or listen for conflicting or potential conflicting transmissions on shared channel 148.

[0138] In the example, any suitable form of control channel sensing can be used. For example, control channel sensing can be used for any suitable duration and / or over any suitable one or more frequency spans.

[0139] For example, control channel sensing is performed over the frequency span of shared channel 148, or in some examples, control channel sensing is performed over a subset of the frequencies of shared channel 148.

[0140] In the example, controlling channel sensing may include controlling the selection of one type from a plurality of predetermined types of channel sensing (e.g., with different durations and / or frequency coverage).

[0141] In some examples, control channel sensing may include determining the type of Listen-Before-Speak (LBT) to be used.

[0142] As used herein, the term “determine” (and its grammatical variations) can include at least: calculation, computer processing, processing, derivation, investigation, searching (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, etc. Furthermore, “determine” can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), etc. Additionally, “determine” can include parsing, selecting, picking, building, etc.

[0143] In the example, control information 138 can have any suitable form and can be determined in any suitable way using any suitable method.

[0144] In some examples, the gNB can determine the content of SFI 140 based on the expected traffic on the shared channel 148 in the upcoming time unit 146.

[0145] For example, if only downlink traffic exists in time unit 146 (which may be referred to as a symbol in some examples), the gNB can mark time unit 146 as DL only. If only uplink traffic exists in time unit 146, the gNB can mark time unit 146 as UL only. If both UL and DL exist in time unit 146, the gNB can mark time unit 146 as both DL and UL.

[0146] If the gNB does not yet know what traffic will occur in time unit 146, the gNB can mark time unit 146 as flexible, which could mean, for example, UL or DL.

[0147] In some examples, control information 138 may be considered as or include scheduling information.

[0148] In some examples, control information 138 can be considered as being configured to control one or more uplink transmissions 142 by at least one -UE 144.

[0149] For example, control information 138 may be configured at least to determine whether one or more uplink transmissions 142 by at least one -UE 144 can continue.

[0150] In the example, determining the type of channel sensing to use before initiating the uplink can determine whether uplink transmission 142 can continue.

[0151] In the example, uplink transmission can be viewed as uplink communication.

[0152] In the example, the time period for transmissions scheduled on channel 148 is divided into time units 146. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 4 and Figure 5 .

[0153] For example, at least a portion of the time period to which control information 138 is applied can be divided into multiple time units 146.

[0154] In the example, time unit 146 can have any suitable duration or one or more durations. For example, time unit 146 can have a duration in the range of 4 microseconds to 72 microseconds.

[0155] In some examples, the duration of time unit 146 may depend on the specific system. For example, for an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) based system with a carrier spacing of 15 kHz to 240 kHz, the duration of time unit 146 would correspond to 72 microseconds and 4 microseconds, respectively.

[0156] In the example, time unit 146 can be considered as at least a portion of one or more time slots. In the example, time unit 146 can be referred to as a symbol, such as an OFDM symbol.

[0157] exist Figure 2 In the example, channel 148 is a shared channel 148. In this example, channel 148 can be considered shared because it is configured and / or allocated for both uplink and downlink transmission and / or communication.

[0158] In the example, channel 148 can be referred to as a channel allocated in an unlicensed frequency band or unlicensed channel 148.

[0159] In some examples, channel 148 can be viewed as a shared frequency band of the spectrum.

[0160] In some examples, control information 138 includes at least one reference to a data structure.

[0161] For example, SFI140 may include a pointer to a time slot format combination in a data structure that points to the time slot format combination.

[0162] In this example, the indicated combination of time slot formats may include at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on channel 148 in at least one time unit in time units 146 covered by SFI 140.

[0163] However, in some examples, SFI140 may be or include a combination of time slot formats. Therefore, in some examples, control information 138 may include a combination of time slot formats.

[0164] Typically, SFI140 can take any suitable form to indicate the use of the scheduled channel for time unit 146. In some examples, time unit 146 can be considered as multiple time units 146. In examples, time unit 146 can be considered as a time unit covered by SFI140 and / or a time unit of SFI140, etc.

[0165] In the example, SFI140 can be viewed as information configured to control the selection of channel sensing type before one or more uplink transmissions 142 are performed by at least one UE 144.

[0166] In the example, SFI 140 is configured to indicate the duplex type scheduled to occur in time unit 146 covered by SFI 140. For example, SFI 140 may be configured to indicate at least uplink-only, downlink-only, flexible, or simultaneous uplink and downlink on shared channel 148 for time unit 146. In the example, flexible means that shared channel 148 can be used for downlink or uplink depending on the scheduling.

[0167] In some examples, SFI140 includes information configured to at least indicate downlink, uplink, flexible, or simultaneous uplink and downlink on shared channel 148 for time unit 146 covered by SFI140. See, for example, [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 .

[0168] Control information 138 may include information configured to indicate the proportion of shared channel 148 that is scheduled for uplink and / or downlink in time units 146 covered by SFI 140 (including time units 146 scheduled for simultaneous uplink and uplink on the shared channel).

[0169] In the example, any suitable indication can be used to indicate the proportion of shared channel 148 that is scheduled for uplink and / or downlink in time unit 146.

[0170] In some examples, SFI140 may include information configured to indicate the proportion of shared channels 148 that are scheduled for uplink and / or downlink in time units 146 covered by SFI140.

[0171] For example, SFI140 may include references (such as pointers) to a combination of time slot formats configured to indicate the proportion of scheduled uplinks and / or downlinks for time unit 146.

[0172] Therefore, in the example, SFI140 includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel 148 scheduled for uplink and / or downlink for time unit 146, which includes time units 146 scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel 148.

[0173] In some examples, SFI140 includes an indication of the location of guard band 152 in shared channel 148 for time unit 146. Any suitable indication can be used to indicate the location of guard band 152 in shared channel 148.

[0174] In the example, the frequency of shared channel 148 can be divided into multiple sections and an indication of one or more sections containing uplink transmissions, downlink transmissions, or provided guard band 152. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 5 .

[0175] In the example, these parts can be considered as subcarriers, physical resource blocks, chucks, and / or portions, and / or parts and / or subbands, etc.

[0176] In the example shown, simultaneous uplink and downlink communication or transmission is scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit in time unit 146 covered by SFI 140.

[0177] Therefore, in the example shown, SFI140 includes at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit in time unit 146.

[0178] In the example, simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions can be considered as uplink and downlink transmissions that at least partially overlap in time on shared channel 148.

[0179] For example, simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions can be considered as uplink and downlink transmissions occurring in at least one shared channel 148.

[0180] In the example, simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions on shared channel 148 are configured to occur on different, non-overlapping portions of shared channel 148. For example, flexible frequency division duplexing can be used on shared channel 148.

[0181] At box 204, at least one signal 164 is transmitted from the gNB to the UE 144. In the example shown, at least one signal 164 includes control information 138, which includes SFI 140. The control information 138 can be considered as downlink control information, and this control information includes, for example, scheduling information for transmitting / receiving data.

[0182] like Figure 2 This illustrates one or more actions of transmitting one or more signals 164 between UE 144 and network unit 156. Figure 2 The corresponding sending / enabling sending features are also illustrated.

[0183] Similarly, for any feature that sends / makes sending, Figure 1 The diagram also illustrates the corresponding receiving / receiving actions.

[0184] For example, box 204 also illustrates receiving / causing at least one signal 164 from network unit 156.

[0185] therefore, Figure 2 A method 200 is illustrated, comprising: determining control information 138, the control information 138 including an SFI 140 configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for time unit 146, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit of time unit 146; and

[0186] This enables the transmission of control information 138 to at least one UE144.

[0187] In the example, control information 138 is included in the downlink control information (DCI).

[0188] At box 206, method 200 includes receiving control information 138 including SFI 140. Therefore, in the example, boxes 204 and 206 can be considered to be at least partially combined.

[0189] The received control information may be as described with respect to box 202.

[0190] Therefore, block 206 illustrates receive control information 138, which includes an SFI 140 configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for time unit 146, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit in time unit 146.

[0191] At block 208, the method 200 includes: determining, at least in part, based on the control information 138, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission 142 on at least a portion or a part of the shared channel 148.

[0192] In the example shown, determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated and for time unit 146 prior to the time unit 146 in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0193] In the example, channel sensing can be viewed as channel scanning.

[0194] In some examples, channel sensing can be viewed as determining whether at least a portion of shared channel 148 is busy. For example, a portion of shared channel 148 scheduled for uplink transmission 142.

[0195] In some examples, channel sensing can be viewed as an attempt to detect and / or listen for collisions or potential collisions in transmissions on shared channel 148.

[0196] In the example, any suitable form of channel sensing can be used. For example, channel sensing can be used for any suitable duration and / or over any suitable frequency span.

[0197] For example, channel sensing can be performed over the frequency span of channel 148, or in some examples, channel sensing can be performed over a subset of the frequencies of channel 148.

[0198] In the example, determining the type of channel to be used for sensing can therefore be viewed as determining one or more frequency ranges to be sensed / scanned, and / or determining the duration of the sense / scan.

[0199] Determining the type of channel sensing to use may include selecting one from several predetermined types of channel sensing (e.g., with different durations and / or frequency coverage).

[0200] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes determining the type of Listen-Before-Speak (LBT) to use.

[0201] In the example, the channel sensing type selection can include choosing from at least the following options:

[0202] • Type 1 (Cat4 LBT) – For example, Channel Occupancy Time (COT) used for gNB acquisition.

[0203] UL transmission outside of UL.

[0204] • Type 2A (25 microsecond Cat2 LBT) – For example, for UL transmission within a COT acquired by a gNB (e.g., in cases where the DL-UL gap is ≥25 microseconds, and for UL transmission following another UL transmission).

[0205] • Type 2B (16 microsecond Cat2 LBT) – For example, for UL transmission within the COT acquired by the gNB (e.g., it can be used for UL transmission after DL, where the DL-UL gap is exactly 16 microseconds).

[0206] • Type 2C (No UL LBT) – For example, it can be used for UL transmission after DL, where the DL-UL gap is ≤16 microseconds and the duration of the UL transmission is ≤584 microseconds.

[0207] In the example, determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes determining the type of channel sensing to be used before simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to initiate uplink transmission in time unit 146 occurring on shared channel 148. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 4 .

[0208] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: determining not to use channel sensing before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0209] Therefore, in some examples, uplink transmission 142 can continue without performing channel sensing.

[0210] In the example, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0211] For example, from the use of the scheduled channel, determine whether a portion of shared channel 148 is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit in time unit 146 prior to the time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated; and

[0212] For example, from the use of the scheduled channel, it is determined whether a portion of shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions in time unit 146, in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to initiate; and

[0213] If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel 148 is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one of the time units 146 prior to the time unit 146 in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that a portion of the shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit 146 in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0214] In the example, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0215] Determine whether shared channel 148 is scheduled for downlink transmission in time unit 146 prior to time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to initiate; and

[0216] Determine whether shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions in time unit 146, in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to initiate; and

[0217] If it is determined that shared channel 148 is scheduled for downlink transmission in time unit 146 prior to initiating uplink transmission, and that shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in time unit 146 prior to initiating uplink transmission, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0218] Therefore, in this example, if it is determined that the shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink / downlink in the initial time unit 146 and is scheduled for downlink in the previous time unit 146, then uplink transmission 142 can continue without any prior channel sensing.

[0219] For example, in some cases, uplink transmission can be permitted without prior channel sensing by regulations governing transmissions on channel 148.

[0220] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes:

[0221] Determine whether shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions in one or more time units 146 that occur immediately after uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to initiate; and

[0222] If it is determined that the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions in one or more time units 146 that occur immediately after an uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0223] Therefore, in this example, if it is determined that the shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink / downlink during the duration of the scheduled uplink transmission 142, then the uplink transmission 142 can continue without any prior channel sensing.

[0224] In some examples, if it is determined that shared channel 148 is scheduled for downlink in time unit 146 prior to time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink / downlink at least during the scheduled duration of uplink transmission 142, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0225] Therefore, in the example, based at least in part on the received control information 138, it can be determined that the uplink transmission 142 can continue without prior channel sensing.

[0226] As discussed with respect to box 202, in the example, the SFI 140 of control information 138 includes an indication of the proportion of shared channel 148 scheduled for uplink and / or downlink.

[0227] In some examples, determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: determining the frequency width of a shared channel 148 scheduled for use in which uplink transmissions are scheduled to be initiated in time unit 146, and determining that channel sensing is not used before initiating uplink transmissions if the frequency width of the shared channel scheduled for downlink transmissions is greater than or equal to a predetermined value.

[0228] Any suitable predetermined frequency width value can be used. In the example, a predetermined frequency width can be used as a percentage of the shared channel size.

[0229] In some examples, the predetermined value for the predetermined frequency width can be in the range of 2MHz to 20MHz.

[0230] In the example, the shared channel 148 may have a width of 20 MHz, and in this example, a predetermined value of 20 MHz will be indicated for some form of channel sensing.

[0231] The predetermined value of the predetermined frequency bandwidth can be in the range of 10% to 100% of the shared channel bandwidth.

[0232] In some examples, determining the form of channel sensing to use includes:

[0233] Determine the duration of uplink transmission 142; and

[0234] If the duration of the uplink transmission is less than a predetermined value, it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission 142.

[0235] Any suitable predetermined duration value can be used. In the examples, the predetermined value can be in the range of 500 to 600 microseconds. In some examples, the predetermined duration can be 584 microseconds.

[0236] In the example, control information 138 includes information indicating the UE 144 involved in the scheduled uplink and downlink transmissions with network unit 156. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 4 .

[0237] In some examples, determining the form of channel sensing to use includes:

[0238] Determine whether one or more downlink transmissions scheduled in one or more time units 146, in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to occur, point to UE 144 scheduled to send uplink transmission 142; and

[0239] If it is determined that one or more downlink transmissions scheduled in one or more time units 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to occur are directed to UE 144 which is scheduled to send uplink transmissions, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used.

[0240] In some examples, if it is determined that one or more downlink transmissions scheduled in one or more time units 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to occur are directed to UE 144 scheduled to send uplink transmission 142, then it is determined that channel sensing is not used for uplink transmission 142 that is longer than a predetermined duration.

[0241] In the above example, it can be determined that, under different circumstances, channel sensing is not used before uplink transmission 142 on shared channel 148.

[0242] However, in the example, determining the form of channel sensing to use may include: determining to perform partial sensing of shared channel 148.

[0243] For example, in some cases, determining the form of channel sensing to use includes:

[0244] Determine whether shared channel 148 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink in at least time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated; and

[0245] If it is determined that shared channel 148 is scheduled for use in both uplink and downlink at least in time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be performed on one or more portions of shared channel 148 that are scheduled for use in downlink in time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated.

[0246] For example, a portion of shared channel 148 that is determined not to be scheduled for downlink can be sensed or scanned.

[0247] At block 210, method 200 includes: before initiating uplink transmission 142, causing a determined type of channel sensing and / or performing a determined type of channel sensing.

[0248] However, in the example in which it is determined that channel sensing is not performed before uplink transmission 142, channel sensing is not performed at box 210.

[0249] Therefore, box 210 is illustrated with a dashed line.

[0250] At block 212, method 200 includes: causing uplink transmission 142 to be transmitted in the form of one or more signals / transmitting uplink transmission 142 in the form of one or more signals.

[0251] therefore, Figure 2 The diagram also illustrates a scenario where network unit 156 receives one or more uplink transmissions from one or more UEs among at least one UE 144.

[0252] therefore, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a method that includes:

[0253] Receive control information 138, the control information 138 including an SFI 140 configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for time unit 146, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit of time unit 146; and

[0254] Based at least in part on the control information 138, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission 142 on at least a portion of the shared channel 148 is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated and for time unit 146 prior to time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated.

[0255] Examples of this disclosure are advantageous. For example, examples of this disclosure allow uplink transmissions to be initiated on a portion of a shared channel without being prevented by channel sensing of downlink transmissions detected on different portions of the shared channel.

[0256] Furthermore, examples of this disclosure allow for continuous downlink transmission on a first portion of a shared channel and downlink-to-uplink switching on a second portion of the same shared channel.

[0257] Continuous downlink transmission can be considered as meaning that no gap is introduced between two consecutive downlink transmissions on the first part of the shared channel.

[0258] Figure 3 An example of method 300 is illustrated.

[0259] In the example, method 300 can be performed by any suitable means including any suitable components for performing method 300.

[0260] In some examples, method 300 can be provided by UE 144 (such as...) Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 UE 144) is used to execute.

[0261] Some examples involve 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) networks. Figure 3 These can be seen as illustrations of some such examples.

[0262] As shown in box 301, in Figure 3 In the example, the UE has been allocated Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) resources.

[0263] exist Figure 3In the example, the PUSCH resource can be an uplink (UL) configuration grant (CG) resource or a scheduled PUSCH resource outside of the gNB channel occupancy time (COT).

[0264] In the example shown, the UE has a scheduled PUSCH transmission that begins with OFDM symbol #x in time slot #N and ends with ODM symbol #y in time slot #M. In the example, N can be equal to M.

[0265] The Listen Before Talk (LBT) type was initially set to Type 1 LBT. LBT is a type of channel sensing.

[0266] At box 302, the UE monitors the search space for receiving Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) Downlink Control Information (DCI) format 2_0 carrying information about SFI 140 and COT duration.

[0267] If no PDCCH DCI format 2_0 with information about SFI140 and COT duration is detected before the PUSCH start position (i.e., OFDM symbol #x of slot #N), then method 300 proceeds via boxes 314 and 320 to box 322, and UE 144 attempts to transmit PUSCH using type 1LBT (Cat4).

[0268] If PDCCH DCI format 2_0, including SFI 140 and COT duration, is detected at box 302, then method 300 proceeds to box 304.

[0269] At block 304, the method 300 includes: determining whether a PUSCH transmission is not within the COT, for example, whether the symbol #y of time slot #M is within the COT.

[0270] If it is determined that the PUSCH transmission is not within the COT, the method proceeds through boxes 314 and 320 to box 322, and UE144 attempts to transmit the PUSCH using type 1LBT (category 4).

[0271] If it is determined that the PUSCH transfer is within the COT, then method 300 proceeds to block 306.

[0272] At box 306, method 300 includes: determining whether a symbol preceding the first symbol of the PUSCH transmission indicates download only (D).

[0273] If it is determined that the symbol preceding the first symbol of the PUSCH is not D, then method 300 proceeds via blocks 315 and 320 to block 322, and UE 144 attempts to transmit the PUSCH using type 2A LBT (Cat2). That is, UE 144 performs channel sensing using type 2A LBT, and if it is determined that the channel is not occupied by other entities, UE 144 transmits the PUSCH at symbol #4 of time slot N.

[0274] If it is determined that the symbol preceding the first symbol in PUSCH is D, then method 300 proceeds to box 308.

[0275] At block 308, method 300 includes: determining whether the first symbol of the PUSCH transmission indicates simultaneous downlink and uplink (D / U).

[0276] If it is determined that the first symbol of the PUSCH transmission is not D / U, then method 300 proceeds to box 322 via boxes 315 and 320, and UE 144 attempts to perform the PUSCH transmission using type 2A LBT (Cat2).

[0277] If it is determined that the type of the first symbol transmitted by PUSCH is D / U, the method proceeds to box 310.

[0278] At box 310, the method 300 includes: determining whether all symbols transmitted by PUSCH are D / U.

[0279] If it is determined that all symbols transmitted in the PUSCH are D / U, then method 300 proceeds via blocks 316 and 320 to block 322, and the UE transmits the PUSCH using type 2C LBT (without LBT). That is, if all OFDM symbols transmitted in the PUSCH are of type D / U, then the UE performs channel sensing using type 2C LBT (i.e., the UE does not perform channel sensing), and then transmits the PUSCH on that portion of the shared channel 148.

[0280] If it is determined that none of the symbols transmitted by the PUSCH are D / U, then method 300 proceeds to block 312. For example, if some symbols of the PUSCH transmission from symbol #x in time slot #N are D / U, while the other symbols of the PUSCH transmission are U, then method 300 proceeds to block 312.

[0281] At box 312, the method includes: determining whether the duration of the PUSCH transmission is less than or equal to 584 microseconds.

[0282] If the duration of the PUSCH is determined to be less than or equal to 584 microseconds, then method 300 proceeds via blocks 316 and 320 to block 322, and the UE performs the PUSCH transmission using type 2C LBT (without LBT). That is, UE 144 does not perform LBT (type 2C LBT) and performs UL transmission from symbol #x in time slot #N to symbol #y in time slot #M.

[0283] If it is determined that the duration of the PUSCH transmission is greater than 584 microseconds, then method 300 proceeds via blocks 318 and 320 to block 322, and UE 144 attempts to perform the PUSCH transmission using type 2A LBT (Cat2). In the example, UE 144 performs type 2A LBT and performs the PUSCH transmission after determining that shared channel 148 is idle for transmission.

[0284] At boxes 314, 315, 316 and 318, the LBT type is determined to be one of them, and at box 320 it is determined whether the start symbol of the PUSCH transmission has been reached.

[0285] If so, method 300 proceeds to block 322, and UE 144 attempts or performs UL transmission with the selected LBT type.

[0286] Otherwise, method 300 returns to box 302.

[0287] In some examples, method 300 can be summarized as follows:

[0288]

[0289]

[0290] Alternatively, type 2C LBT is permitted only if the D transmission in symbol #x(D / U) of time slot #N is occupying at least X MHz. In the example, X can be 50 MHz or 40 PRB.

[0291] Alternatively, Type 2C LBT is permitted only if the UL transmission is less than or equal to 584 microseconds.

[0292] Alternatively, if the symbol preceding symbol #x in time slot #N is D, symbol #x in time slot #N is D / U, and UL transmission is greater than 584 microseconds, then type 2A LBT is performed only on the portion of shared channel 148 that is not used for DL ​​transmission in symbol #x in time slot #N.

[0293] In the examples, one or more of the following examples can be applied to 3GPP examples, for example, Figure 3 Example method 300.

[0294] In the example, the gNB explicitly informs UE 144, which is connected to the radio resource control (RRC) within its cell, what type of duplex is occurring at each symbol.

[0295] In the example, UE 144 in the cell is notified via a dedicated group public DCI (which includes SFI140).

[0296] In the example, this can be signaled using the new SFI format, which is identified by the symbols DL only, UL only, flexible, or simultaneous uplink and downlink (U / D).

[0297] In the example, a new DCI format is introduced for the case of flexible frequency division duplex (FFDD) to ensure backward compatibility (e.g., when time division duplex (TDD) and FFDD coexist in the same spectrum).

[0298] Alternatively, in some examples, DCI format 2_0 can be extended in backward compatibility mode to include information on the duplex type per symbol.

[0299] In the example, if based on the information transmitted by the gNB signaling, UE 144 determines that the gNB is also transmitting in the DL direction in the symbol preceding UL transmission 142 and at least during the first symbol of UL transmission 142, then UE 144 (with UL allocation within the COT obtained by the gNB) can initiate a transmission on the allocated UL resources without performing LBT.

[0300] In the example, the presence of the U / D tag indicates to the UE that DL and UL transmissions were allocated at the same time unit. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 4 .

[0301] In the example, if the first symbol transmitted by PUSCH is U / D and the previous symbol is D, the UE can apply type 2C LBT for channel sensing.

[0302] In the example, type 2C LBT can be applied independently of the PUSCH start position and timing advance (TA) values, that is, if the gap between DL and UL on that part of the shared channel (which can be shared and / or unlicensed, where PUSCH transmission occurs) is greater than 16 microseconds.

[0303] In some examples, the UE can apply type 2C LBT only if the first symbol transmitted by the PUSCH is U / D and the preceding symbol is D, and the DL portion of the U / D symbol has a width of at least X MHz. If the DL portion is less than X MHz, type 2A LBT can be applied.

[0304] In the example, X is in the range of 2 to 20 MHz.

[0305] In some examples, if a UL transmission following the D symbol and starting with the U / D symbol is longer than 584 microseconds (still within the COT acquired by the gNB), type 2C LBT can also be used if all time resources of the PUSCH transmission are indicated as U / D (that is, if the gNB is also transmitting in DL while the UE is transmitting in UL).

[0306] In the example, if the DL transmission is directed to the same UE 144 that is also transmitting in the UL, then type 2CLBT is allowed for UL transmissions that are longer than 584 microseconds and overlap with DL transmissions from the initiating device (gNB) (in both the channel and time domains).

[0307] In some examples, when a Type 2A LBT is applied before a UL transmission that is longer than 584 microseconds and overlaps with a DL transmission from the initiating device (gNB) (in both the channel and time domains), channel sensing is allowed to be performed in both the time and frequency domains (i.e., on the portion of a 20MHz channel where no DL is transmitted).

[0308] In some examples, instead of performing Type 2A LBT when the duration of the UL transmission is greater than 584 microseconds, UE 144 can also perform channel sensing before the UL transmission 142 in order to identify potential hidden nodes.

[0309] In the example, UE 144 tracks changes in Rx power during DL transmissions prior to UL transmission opportunities. If UE 144 detects a significant increase in Rx power (greater than a threshold), UE 144 discards UL transmission 142. Rx power greater than the threshold indicates the presence of a hidden node. Otherwise, it can initiate a PUSCH transmission without performing any additional LBT checks.

[0310] In the example, the proposed method is applicable to UL configuration authorization allocation, where UE 144 is allocated periodic semi-static PUSCH resources, and therefore gNB cannot indicate the LBT type when PUSCH resources are allocated.

[0311] In the example, the proposed method can also be applied to scheduled PUSCH transmissions, such as scheduled PUSCH transmissions outside of the COT obtained by the gNB.

[0312] Figure 4 The example scenario is illustrated.

[0313] Figure 4The diagram illustrates the scheduling of time unit 146 on shared channel 148.

[0314] Figure 4 Examples of SFI140 and / or information indicated by SFI140 are also shown.

[0315] exist Figure 4 In the example, the control channel and shared channel 148 have a width of 20 MHz.

[0316] As shown in the block occupying the leftmost or first time unit 146, control information 138 is transmitted / received via the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH). In this example, control information 138 is included in the DCI via the PDCCH.

[0317] exist Figure 4 In the example, downlink resources are scheduled on shared channel 148 in the first four time units 146 (from left to right) of SFI 140.

[0318] In the example, downlink transmissions for UE#2 and UE#1 are scheduled in these time units 146.

[0319] However, the downlink transmission to UE#2 is scheduled to end in the third time unit 146, and this portion of the shared channel 148 forms a guard band 152 in the fourth time unit 146.

[0320] In the example shown, the remaining time unit 146 is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink, as indicated by the D / U in SFI 140.

[0321] therefore, Figure 4 The illustration shows an SFI 140 including at least one indicator 150 configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel 148 in at least one time unit in time unit 146.

[0322] exist Figure 4 In the example, while uplink transmission 142 is being performed by UE#4, continuous downlink transmissions of UE#1 and UE#3 are scheduled on the first part of the shared channel 148.

[0323] In the example, UE#4 can determine not to perform channel sensing before initiating uplink transmission 142 by analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for time unit 146 in which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated and for time unit 146 prior to which uplink transmission 142 is scheduled to be initiated. In the example, uplink transmission 142 can be as follows: Figure 2The uplink transmission 142 is shown in box 212.

[0324] These time units 146 are in Figure 4 The example is highlighted.

[0325] Therefore, in Figure 4 In the example, uplink transmissions performed by UE#4 can continue without channel sensing and are unaffected by downlink transmissions ongoing on another portion of shared channel 148.

[0326] Without the inventive method disclosed herein, uplink transmission 142 performed by UE#4 would be blocked by channel sensing (which would detect the ongoing downlink transmission) before initiating uplink transmission 142.

[0327] In the example, downlink transmissions can be via the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH), and uplink transmission 142 can be via the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH).

[0328] Figure 5 An example of the SFI 140 format is shown.

[0329] exist Figure 5 In the example, shared channel 148 is divided into multiple blocks or sections. The number of blocks or sections can be indicated in the System Information Block (SIB) in the example.

[0330] In the associated SFI 140 (or information indicated by SFI 140), there is an indication of the downlink allocation on the shared channel 148 related to the start reference for time unit 146.

[0331] exist Figure 5 In the example, the allocation is indicated by starting from the bandwidth portion (BWP).

[0332] exist Figure 5 In the example, blocks allocated for downlink use are shown in shaded areas.

[0333] Therefore, in the first time unit 146 (from left to right), 2 is indicated to show that two blocks starting from BWP are allocated for the downlink.

[0334] Similarly, the next time unit 146 shows 2 blocks, the subsequent time unit 146 shows 3 blocks, and so on.

[0335] Therefore, in this example, the proportion of shared channel 148 scheduled for downlink and uplink can be indicated, since the size of the guard band between the different parts can be predetermined.

[0336] Alternatively, in some examples, the SFI format may reflect the UL assignment instead.

[0337] In some examples, the location of the guard band 152 allocated between UL and DL can be used in SFI 140 to indicate resource allocation.

[0338] In the example, the partitioning of BWP can be done at the symbolic level (e.g., Figure 5 (as shown in the image), or it can be done at the time slot (or multiple time slots) level. In the latter case, DL, GB, or UL assignments need to be made in the BWP.

[0339] Using the latter method, signaling overhead is greatly reduced, although the cost is that dynamic allocation at the multi-slot level can only be updated after these slots have passed.

[0340] The technical benefit provided by this disclosure is to prevent uplink transmission interruption on a portion of a shared channel by detecting downlink transmissions on different portions of the shared channel through channel sensing.

[0341] Furthermore, examples of this disclosure provide continuous downlink transmission on a first portion of a shared channel and downlink-to-uplink switching on a second portion of the same shared channel.

[0342] Figure 6A An example of device 130 is illustrated. Device 130 may be a controller of a device or equipment such as terminal node 110 (e.g., UE 144) or network unit 156 (e.g., gNB).

[0343] The device 130 can be implemented as a controller circuit. The device 130 can be implemented solely in hardware, have some aspects of software that include only firmware, or can be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0344] like Figure 6A As shown, the device 130 can be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functions, for example, by using executable instructions of a computer program 136 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 132. These instructions can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium (disk, memory, etc.) for execution by such processor 132.

[0345] Processor 132 is configured to read from and write to memory 134. Processor 132 may also include an output interface through which processor 802 outputs data and / or commands and an input interface through which data and / or commands are input to processor 132.

[0346] Memory 134 stores a computer program 136 comprising computer program instructions (computer program code) that controls the operation of device 130 when loaded into processor 132. The computer program instructions of computer program 136 provide logic and routines that enable device 130 to execute. Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The method shown. By reading memory 134, processor 132 is able to load and execute computer program 136.

[0347] In the example, device 130 therefore includes:

[0348] At least one processor 132; and

[0349] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0350] The at least one memory 134 and the computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor 132, to cause the device 130 to perform at least the following:

[0351] Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0352] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0353] In the example, device 130 therefore includes:

[0354] At least one processor 132; and

[0355] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0356] The at least one memory 134 and the computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor 132, to cause the device 130 to perform at least the following:

[0357] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0358] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0359] like Figure 6A As shown, computer program 136 can reach device 130 via any suitable transmission mechanism 162. Transmission mechanism 162 can be, for example, a machine-readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a storage device, a recording medium such as an optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or solid-state storage, or a product of manufacture that includes or tangibly embodies computer program 136. The transmission mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transmit computer program 136. Device 130 can propagate or transmit computer program 136 as computer data signals.

[0360] Computer program instructions for causing the device to perform at least the following operations, or for performing at least the following operations:

[0361] Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0362] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0363] Computer program instructions for causing the device to perform at least the following operations, or for performing at least the following operations:

[0364] At least one processor; and

[0365] At least one memory including computer program code;

[0366] The at least one memory and computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0367] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0368] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0369] Computer program instructions can be included in a computer program, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, a computer program product, or a machine-readable medium. In some, but not all, examples, computer program instructions can be distributed across more than one computer program.

[0370] Although memory 134 is shown as a single component / circuit, it can be implemented as one or more separate components / circuits, some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0371] In the example, memory 134 includes random access memory 158 and read-only memory 160. In the example, computer program 136 may be stored in read-only memory 158. See, for example, [link to example]. Figure 6B .

[0372] In some examples, memory 134 can be divided into random access memory 158 and read-only memory 160.

[0373] Although processor 132 is shown as a single component / circuit, it can be implemented as one or more separate components / circuits, some or all of which may be integrated / removable. Processor 132 may be a single-core or multi-core processor.

[0374] References to “computer-readable storage medium,” “computer program product,” “tangible computer program,” or “controller,” “computer,” “processor,” etc., should be understood to encompass not only computers with different architectures such as single / multiple processor architectures and serial (von Neumann) / parallel architectures, but also special-purpose circuits such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), signal processing devices, and other processing circuits. References to computer programs, instructions, code, etc., should be understood to encompass software for programmable processors, or firmware that may include programmable content such as hardware devices that may include instructions for processors, or configuration settings for fixed-function devices, gate arrays, or programmable logic devices, etc.

[0375] As used in this application, the term "circuit" may refer to one or more of the following:

[0376] (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation of analog and / or digital circuits only);

[0377] (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable):

[0378] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry with software / firmware; and

[0379] (ii) Any part of a hardware processor having software (including digital signal processors, software, and memory, which work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions); and

[0380] (c) Hardware circuitry and / or processors, such as microprocessors or parts thereof, which require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may be absent when operation does not require software.

[0381] This definition of "circuit" applies to all uses of the term in this application, including its use in any claim. As another example, as used in this application, the term "circuit" also covers only the implementation of hardware circuitry or processors and their accompanying software and / or firmware. The term "circuit" also covers (e.g., and if applicable, baseband integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or networking devices).

[0382] Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The boxes shown may represent steps in the method and / or code segments in computer program 136. The illustration of a particular order of boxes does not imply a desired or preferred order for these boxes, but rather that the order and arrangement of the boxes can be varied. Furthermore, some boxes may be omitted.

[0383] Where structural features have been described, they can be used as a substitute for components that perform one or more functions of those structural features, whether or not the function or those functions are explicitly described or implicitly described.

[0384] Therefore, in this example, device 130 may include components for performing the following operations:

[0385] This enables the reception of control information, including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0386] Based at least in part on the control information, the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel is determined, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated.

[0387] Therefore, in this example, device 130 may include components for the following operations:

[0388] Determine control information, which includes a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the timeslot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one of these time units; and

[0389] This enables the control information to be sent to at least one user equipment.

[0390] In the example, device 130 may include components as disclosed herein for performing a method or at least a portion thereof.

[0391] The examples described above enable applications of components such as: automotive systems; telecommunications systems; electronic systems, including consumer electronics; distributed computing systems; media systems for generating or rendering media content, including audio, visual, and audiovisual content, as well as mixed, mediated, virtual, and / or augmented reality; personal systems, including personal medical systems or personal health / fitness systems; navigation systems; user interfaces, also known as human-machine interfaces; networks, including cellular, non-cellular, and optical networks; self-organizing networks; the Internet; the Internet of Things; virtualized networks; and related software and services.

[0392] The term “comprising” as used herein has an inclusive rather than exclusive meaning. That is, any statement “X includes Y” means that X may include only one Y or may include more than one Y. If the intention is to use “comprising” with an exclusive meaning, it will be made clear in the context by referring to “only one…” or by using “consisting of…”.

[0393] Various examples have been referenced in this description. Descriptions of features or functions for an example indicate that those features or functions exist in that example. Whether explicitly stated or not, the use of the terms "example," "for example," "may," or "can" in the text indicates that such a feature or function exists at least in the described example, whether or not it is described as an example, and that such a feature or function may, but is not required to, exist in some or all other examples. Therefore, "example," "for example," "may," or "can" refers to a specific instance of a class of examples. The properties of an instance may be properties of that instance alone, properties of the class of instances, or properties of subclasses of the class that include some but not all instances of that class. Therefore, it is implicitly disclosed that features described for one example but not for another can be used in other examples as part of a working composition, but are not required to be used in other examples.

[0394] Although examples have been described with reference to various examples in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that modifications may be made to the given examples without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0395] The features described in the preceding description can be used in combinations other than those explicitly described above.

[0396] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, these functions can be performed by other features, whether or not they are described.

[0397] Although features have been described with reference to some examples, these features may also exist in other examples, whether or not they are described.

[0398] The terms “one” or “the” as used herein have an inclusive rather than exclusive meaning. That is, any reference to “X includes one / the Y” indicates that “X may include only one Y” or “X may include more than one Y”, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. If the intention to use “one” or “the” with an exclusive meaning is to do so, it will be clearly stated in the context. In some contexts, “at least one” or “one or more” may be used to emphasize an inclusive meaning, but the absence of these terms should not be construed as indicating any non-exclusivity.

[0399] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature (or combination of features) itself, and also a reference to a feature (equivalent feature) that achieves substantially the same technical effect. Equivalent features include, for example, features that are variations and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same manner. Equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same manner to achieve substantially the same result.

[0400] This description has referenced various examples using adjectives or adjective phrases to describe the characteristics of the examples. This description of the characteristics of the examples indicates that the characteristic is exactly the same as described in some examples, and substantially the same as described in others.

[0401] Although the foregoing description attempts to point out those features considered important, it should be understood that an applicant may seek protection by means of the claims for any patentable features or combinations thereof shown herein with reference to the accompanying drawings and / or the drawings, whether or not they have been emphasized.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory including instructions; The at least one memory and the instructions are configured, together with the at least one processor, to cause the device to perform at least the following: Receive control information, the control information including a time slot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communication is scheduled to occur on a shared channel and in at least one time unit of the time unit; and Based at least in part on the control information, determine the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: analyzing the usage of the scheduled channel, at least analyzing the time unit for which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit for which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated. The type of channel sensing to be used includes: Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission, which occurs in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to initiate; and If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that the portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: determining the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission in a time unit, in which simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type scheduled to occur in the time unit, and The time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for the time unit.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur; and If it is determined that the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

5. A method comprising: Receive control information, the control information including a time slot format indicator configured to indicate the use of a scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein the time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communication is scheduled to occur on a shared channel and in at least one time unit of the time unit; and Based at least in part on the control information, determine the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: analyzing the usage of the scheduled channel, at least analyzing the time unit for which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and the time unit prior to the time unit for which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated. The type of channel sensing to be used includes: Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission, which occurs in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to initiate; and If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that the portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: determining the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission in a time unit, in which simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel.

7. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type scheduled to occur in the time unit, and The time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for the time unit.

8. The method according to claim 5, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur; and If it is determined that the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

9. A computer program product comprising instructions for causing a device to perform at least the following operations: Receive control information, the control information including a timeslot format indicator configured to indicate the time slot format used by the scheduled channel for a time unit, wherein, The time slot format indicator includes at least one indicator configured to indicate that simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on a shared channel in at least one time unit of the time unit. as well as Based at least in part on the control information, determine the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating an uplink transmission on at least a portion of the shared channel, wherein determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: analyzing the scheduled channel usage at least for the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated and for the time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; The type of channel sensing to be used includes: Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission, which occurs in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated; Determine whether a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to initiate; and If it is determined that a portion of the shared channel is scheduled for downlink transmission in at least one time unit prior to the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, and it is determined that the portion of the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmission in the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to be initiated, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

10. The computer program product according to claim 9, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to be used includes: determining the type of channel sensing to be used before initiating uplink transmission in a time unit, in which simultaneous uplink and downlink communications are scheduled to occur on the shared channel.

11. The computer program product according to claim 9, wherein, The time slot format indicator is configured to indicate the duplex type scheduled to occur in the time unit, and The time slot format indicator includes information configured to at least indicate the downlink, uplink, flexible or simultaneous uplink and downlink on the shared channel for the time unit.

12. The computer program product according to claim 9, wherein, Determining the type of channel sensing to use includes: Determine whether the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur; and If it is determined that the shared channel is scheduled for simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions within one or more time units immediately following the time unit in which the uplink transmission is scheduled to occur, then it is determined that channel sensing will not be used before initiating the uplink transmission.

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