Apparatus and method for a communication system

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to apparatuses and methods for communication systems. An apparatus (100) for a communication system (1000), the apparatus (100) comprising at least one processor (102) and at least one memory (104) storing instructions (106) that, when executed by the at least one processor (102), cause the apparatus (100) to determine (300) a first measurement of a first reference signal associated with a first analog beam used to receive the first reference signal, determine (302) a second measurement of a second reference signal associated with a second analog beam used to receive the second reference signal, determine (304) first information characterizing a digital beamformer based on the first measurement and the second measurement.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Various example embodiments relate to an apparatus for a communication system.

[0002] Further embodiments relate to a method for a communication system. BACKGROUND

[0003] A communication system (e.g., a wireless communication system) can be used for a wireless exchange of information between two or more entities (e.g., including one or more terminal devices (e.g., user equipments (UEs)) and one or more network devices (e.g., base stations)).

[0004] In some conventional wireless communication systems, beamforming is applied to, for example, enhance the quality and / or efficiency of radio transmissions. In some conventional approaches, beamforming can be used to focus transmitted signals in a particular direction, thereby, for example, improving signal strength, reducing interference, improving overall system performance, by combining multiple antenna elements.

[0005] In some conventional communication systems, beamforming can be based on reference signals exchanged between devices of the communication system (e.g., between a terminal device and a network device).

[0006] In some conventional approaches, analog beamforming is used, which represents a technique for manipulating the phase and / or amplitude of signals in an analog domain (e.g., using phase shifters and / or attenuators, etc.) to, for example, control the directivity and / or characteristics of transmit and / or receive beams.

[0007] In some conventional approaches, digital beamforming is used, which represents a technique for manipulating the phase and / or amplitude of signals in a digital domain to, for example, control the directivity and / or characteristics of transmit and / or receive beams.

[0008] In some conventional approaches, hybrid beamforming is proposed, which uses a combination of digital beamforming and analog beamforming. SUMMARY

[0009] Various embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the claims. The example embodiments and features described in this specification that are not within the scope of the claims (if any) will be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] Some embodiments relate to an apparatus for a communication system as defined in claim 1. In some embodiments, the first information can, for example, be used to perform digital beamforming.

[0011] In some embodiments, the communication system can be a wireless communication system.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wireless communication system can comply with and / or can be based on some recognized (and / or planned) standard, e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G or some other wireless communication standard.

[0013] In some embodiments, the apparatus can be an apparatus for a network device, e.g., a base station, e.g., a gNB.

[0014] In some embodiments, the apparatus or its functionality can be provided within the network device, respectively. In some other embodiments, the apparatus or its functionality can be provided outside the network device.

[0015] In some embodiments, the apparatus can be an apparatus for a terminal device, e.g., a user equipment (UE).

[0016] In some embodiments, the apparatus or its functionality can be provided within the terminal device, respectively. In some other embodiments, the apparatus or its functionality can be provided outside the terminal device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the apparatus can be configured to perform hybrid beamforming, which comprises aspects of digital beamforming and analog beamforming.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first analog beam for receiving the first reference signal can be obtained, e.g., by means of analog beamforming. Similarly, the second analog beam for receiving the second reference signal can be obtained, e.g., by means of analog beamforming, as well.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first reference signal and the second reference signal can be, e.g., sounding reference signals, e.g., according to some recognized standard, a sounding reference signal (SRS) according to, e.g., a 5G or 6G standard.

[0020] Note that, in some embodiments, the first reference signal can comprise at least one reference signal. In other words, “first reference signal” as used herein can comprise, e.g., one or more reference signals, e.g., one or more first reference signals. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second reference signal can comprise at least one reference signal. In other words, “second reference signal” as used herein can comprise, e.g., one or more reference signals, e.g., one or more second reference signals.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first measurement and the second measurement are consecutive measurements. In other words, in some embodiments, no further measurements associated with the reference signal, e.g., SRS, are performed between the first measurement and the second measurement.

[0022] In some embodiments, the time duration between the first measurement and the second measurement can be a SRS period, e.g., according to some recognized standard.

[0023] In some embodiments, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: perform digital beamforming in a first direction using a digital beamformer, perform analog beamforming in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction.

[0024] In some embodiments, the digital beamforming is performed, e.g., in a horizontal direction, and the analog beamforming is performed, e.g., in a vertical direction.

[0025] In some other embodiments, the digital beamforming and the analog beamforming can also be performed, e.g., both in a vertical direction.

[0026] As an example, in some embodiments, four relatively narrow analog beams can be used in a vertical direction, wherein, e.g., each analog beam is associated with another elevation angle.

[0027] The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine, based on the first measurement and the second measurement, a measurement vector characterizing the first reference signal and the second reference signal, determine, based on the measurement vector, a first covariance matrix, determine, based on the first covariance matrix, a second covariance matrix, the second covariance matrix being associated with at least one of the first analog beam and the second analog beam. For example, the second covariance matrix is determined for any analog beam, e.g., including the first analog beam and the second analog beam.

[0028] In some embodiments, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least one of: a) determining the measurement vector according to SRS = (w H w) -1 w H y, wherein Z SRS characterizes the measurement vector, wherein wherein y i characterizes a first measurement of a first reference signal associated with the first analog beam, wherein y k characterizes a second measurement of a second reference signal associated with the second analog beam, wherein wherein w i characterizes a weight matrix associated with the first analog beam, wherein w k characterizes a weight matrix associated with the second analog beam, wherein w H is a conjugate transpose of w, wherein () -1 characterizes a matrix inversion, b) determining the measurement vector according to determining, based on the measurement vector, a first covariance matrix, wherein R zzCharacterizing the first covariance matrix, c) according to The second covariance matrix is ​​determined based on the first covariance matrix, where Characterize the covariance matrix associated with at least one of the first and second simulated beams. For example, determine the second covariance matrix for any simulated beam (e.g., including both the first and second simulated beams).

[0029] In some embodiments, when executed by at least one processor, these instructions cause the apparatus to perform at least one of the following: a) determine a digital beam for exchanging, e.g., transmitting and / or receiving, signals based on first information; b) exchange (e.g., transmit and / or receive) signals using the digital beam; and c) update the digital beam.

[0030] In some embodiments, digital beams (and / or corresponding analog beams) may be used to exchange control signals, such as control signals according to some recognized standards.

[0031] As an example, in some embodiments, digital beams (and / or corresponding analog beams) may be used to transmit and / or receive at least one of the following signals: for example, according to some recognized standards, a) a signal associated with the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH), and / or b) a signal associated with the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH).

[0032] In some embodiments, when executed by at least one processor, these instructions cause the apparatus to: determine an estimate of a measurement vector based on a first measurement and a second measurement; determine a first covariance matrix for the estimate based on the estimate; and determine a second covariance matrix associated with the estimate based on the estimated first covariance matrix, the second covariance matrix being associated with one of a first analog beam and a second analog beam.

[0033] In some embodiments, when executed by at least one processor, these instructions cause the apparatus to perform at least one of the following: a) determining the accuracy of the estimate of the measurement vector, for example, based on the normalized mean square error (NMSE); b) determining the accuracy of the second covariance matrix associated with the estimate, for example, based on the NMSE.

[0034] Some embodiments relate to an apparatus for a communication system, the apparatus including components for: determining a first measurement of a first reference signal associated with a first analog beam used to receive a first reference signal, determining a second measurement of a second reference signal associated with a second analog beam used to receive a second reference signal, and determining first information characterizing a digital beamformer based on the first and second measurements.

[0035] In some embodiments, the components for determining the first measurement and the second measurement and for determining the first information may, for example, include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform the aforementioned aspects.

[0036] In some embodiments, the components for determining the first measurement and the second measurement, and the components for determining the first information, may include, for example, circuitry configured to perform the aspects described above.

[0037] Some embodiments relate to a network device (e.g., a base station, such as a gNB) for a communication system, including at least one means according to an embodiment.

[0038] Some embodiments relate to a terminal device (e.g., UE) for a communication system, including at least one means according to an embodiment.

[0039] Some embodiments relate to a communication system comprising at least one of the following: a) an apparatus according to an embodiment, and / or b) a network device according to an embodiment, and / or c) a terminal device according to an embodiment.

[0040] Some embodiments relate to a method for a communication system, comprising: determining a first measurement of a first reference signal associated with a first analog beam used to receive a first reference signal; determining a second measurement of a second reference signal associated with a second analog beam used to receive a second reference signal; and determining first information characterizing a digital beamformer based on the first and second measurements.

[0041] Further embodiments relate to a computer program including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform at least some aspects of the method according to the embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1A A simplified block diagram according to some embodiments is shown schematically.

[0043] Figure 1B A simplified block diagram according to some embodiments is shown schematically.

[0044] Figure 2 A simplified block diagram according to some embodiments is shown schematically.

[0045] Figure 3 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0046] Figure 4 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0047] Figure 5A simplified signaling diagram according to some embodiments is schematically shown.

[0048] Figure 6 A simplified block diagram according to some embodiments is shown schematically.

[0049] Figure 7 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0050] Figure 8 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0051] Figure 9 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0052] Figure 10 A simplified flowchart according to some embodiments is illustrated schematically.

[0053] Figure 11 A simplified block diagram according to some embodiments is shown schematically. Specific Implementation

[0054] Some embodiments, for example see Figure 1A , Figure 2 , Figure 3 This relates to communication system 1000 ( Figure 2 Device 100 Figure 1A The device 100 includes at least one processor 102. Figure 1A ), and at least one memory 104 storing instruction 106, which, when executed by at least one processor 102, causes the device 100 to: determine 300 ( Figure 3 ) and the first analog beam 1 used to receive the first reference signal (see Figure 5 The first measurement RS-M-1 of the associated first reference signal determines 302 ( Figure 3 ) and the second analog beam 2 used to receive the second reference signal Figure 5 The second measurement RS-M-2 of the associated second reference signal, based on the first measurement RS-M-1 and the second measurement RS-M-2, determines 304 ( Figure 3 The first information I-1 characterizes the digital beamformer (DBF). In some embodiments, the first information I-1 may be used, for example, to perform aspects of digital beamforming, see, for example, optional box 306.

[0055] In some embodiments, Figure 2 In this context, communication system 1000 can be a wireless communication system.

[0056] In some embodiments, the wireless communication system 1000 may follow and / or may be based on some recognized (and / or planned) standards, such as 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G or some other wireless communication standards.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, device 100 can be a device for network equipment 10, such as a base station, such as a gNB.

[0058] In some embodiments, the device 100 or its functionality may be provided within the network device 10. In some other embodiments, the device 100 or its functionality may be provided outside the network device 10. Two exemplary variations are described below. Figure 2 The middle part is represented by a dashed rectangle 100.

[0059] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, device 100 may be a device for terminal device 20 (e.g., user equipment (UE)).

[0060] In some embodiments, the device 100 or its functionality may be provided within the terminal device 20. In some other embodiments, the device 100 or its functionality may be provided outside the terminal device 20. However, for clarity and without loss of generality, the following examples focus on exemplary embodiments in which the device 100 or its functionality is provided for network device 10 (such as a gNB) and / or within network device 10.

[0061] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 The device 100 can be configured to perform hybrid beamforming, see [reference]. Figure 2 The example box HBF, Hybrid Beamforming HBF includes aspects of digital beamforming (see example box DBF) and analog beamforming (see example box ABF).

[0062] In some embodiments, for example, a first analog beam 1 for receiving a first reference signal RS-1 ( Figure 5 This can be obtained by means of analog beamforming (ABF). Similarly, for example, a second analog beam 2 for receiving the second reference signal RS-2 can also be obtained by means of analog beamforming (ABF).

[0063] In some embodiments, Figure 2 In this context, the first reference signal RS-1 and the second reference signal RS-2 can be, for example, probe reference signals, such as probe reference signals (SRS) according to some recognized standards (e.g., 5G or 6G standards).

[0064] In some embodiments, Figure 3In this embodiment, the first measurement RS-M-1 and the second measurement RS-M-2 are consecutive measurements. In other words, in some embodiments, no further measurements associated with a reference signal (e.g., SRS) are performed between the first measurement RS-M-1 and the second measurement RS-M-2.

[0065] Figure 5 An exemplary scenario is shown, where element E1 represents gNB (see also, for example, see...). Figure 2 Box 10), where element E2 represents the UE (see also, for example, box 10). Figure 2 (See box 20). Arrows a1, a2, a3, and a4 represent corresponding reference signals, such as SRS, periodically transmitted by UE E2 to gNBE1. The SRS according to arrow a1 is received by gNB E1 using a first analog beam 1, and the SRS according to arrow a2 is received by gNB E1 using a second analog beam 2. Optionally, additional SRS a3 and a4 can be received by gNB E1 using additional analog beams 3 and 4.

[0066] As an example, Figure 5 The SRS transmission a1 can, for example, be with Figure 2 The first reference signal RS-1 corresponds to, and Figure 5 The SRS transmission a2 can, for example, be with Figure 2 The second reference signal RS-2 corresponds to this.

[0067] In some embodiments, Figure 5 In this context, the duration TD between the first and second measurements can be, for example, the SRS period according to some recognized standards.

[0068] In some embodiments, Figure 4 In the instruction, when executed by at least one processor, the device 100: performs 310 digital beamforming on a first direction DIR-1 using a digital beamformer DBF, and performs 312 analog beamforming ABF on a second direction DIR-2, which is different from the first direction DIR-1.

[0069] In some embodiments, digital beamforming (DBF) is performed in the horizontal direction, for example. Analog beamforming (ABF) is performed in the vertical direction (e.g., associated with height).

[0070] In some other embodiments, both digital beamforming and analog beamforming can be performed in the vertical direction.

[0071] As an example, in some embodiments... Figure 5In this configuration, four relatively narrow analog beams 1, 2, 3, and 4 can be used in the vertical direction. For example, each of the analog beams 1, 2, 3, and 4 is associated with another elevation angle.

[0072] Figure 6 Exemplary aspects of signal processing associated with received SRS measurements are illustrated in some embodiments, showing applications that can be used in hybrid beamformers (see [link]). Figure 2 The configuration of a column in the HBF (Block HBF) architecture. For example, element E10 indicates the application of an analog beamformer (see... Figure 2 The input before the analog phase shifter in the box ABF, element E11 represents the corresponding channel through the analog beamformer, element E12 represents the weight of the analog phase shifter of the analog beamformer, and element E13 represents the digital port, such as the input.

[0073] For example, when a reference signal such as SRS is received, they Figure 6 In the exemplary configuration, along the generally horizontal direction from Figure 6 to the right Figure 6 The left side is processed, for example, by undergoing at least one of the following: a) analog phase shift (if any); b) combination; c) amplification; d) analog-to-digital conversion.

[0074] Figure 11 Exemplary examples illustrate aspects of signal processing for measurements associated with received SRS in some embodiments. Element E20 represents, for example, a user layer associated with user data to be transmitted; element E21 represents digital beamforming; element E22 represents a digital transmit / receive chain (“TRX”) stream obtained through digital beamforming E21; element E23 represents analog beamforming, for example, by applying selected phase shifter weights; and element E24 represents an analog stream obtained through analog beamforming E23. Element E25 represents pre-tilt application, for example, characterizing phase shifter-to-radiator mapping; and element E26 represents a radiator stream.

[0075] Element E27 represents the SRS signal, and element E28 represents a pre-tilt application, similar to element E25, such as characterizing the phase shifter-to-radiator mapping (for the receiving direction). Element E29 represents the analog stream in the receiving direction, and element E30 represents analog beamforming, for example, by applying selected phase shifter weights. Element E31 represents the digital TRX stream, element E32 represents, for example, the determination of the corresponding covariance matrix according to the principles of the embodiment, and element E33 represents, for example, the digital weights obtained by determining block E32. In some embodiments, Figure 7In the instruction, when executed by at least one processor, the device 100: determines 320 characterizing the first reference signal RS-1 and the second reference signal RS-2 based on the first measurement RS-M-1 and the second measurement RS-M-2. Figure 2 The measurement vector MV of ) is used to determine 322 () Figure 7 The first covariance matrix CV-M-1 is used to determine the second covariance matrix CV-M-2. The second covariance matrix CV-M-2 is then compared with the first analog beam 1. Figure 5 It is associated with at least one of the first and second analog beams 1 and 2. For example, the second covariance matrix CV-M-2 is determined for any analog beam (e.g., including the first analog beam 1 and the second analog beam 2). Figure 7 The optional box 326 indicates that the first information I-1 characterizing the digital beamformer DBF can be determined optionally based on the second covariance matrix CV-M-2.

[0076] In some embodiments, Figure 7 In this context, the instruction, when executed by at least one processor, causes device 100 to perform: according to Z SRS =(w H w) -1 w H y determines the 320 measurement vector MV, where Z SRS Characterization, for example, representing the measurement vector MV, where y i Characterization and the first analog beam 1 ( Figure 5 The first reference signal RS-1 associated with ) Figure 2 The first measurement RS-M-1 () Figure 3 ), y k Characterization and the second analog beam 2 ( Figure 5 The associated second reference signal RS-2 () Figure 2 The second measurement RS-M-2 () Figure 3 ),in w i The weight matrix characterizing the first simulated beam 1 (e.g., can be used for...) Figure 6 (in box E12), w k The weight matrix w represents the weights associated with the second simulated beam. H It is the conjugate transpose of w, () -1 Invert the representation matrix.

[0077] In some embodiments, Figure 7 In this context, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause device 100 to perform: according to 322 is determined based on the measurement vector MV. Figure 7The first covariance matrix is ​​CV-M-1, where R zz The first covariance matrix CV-M-1 is represented.

[0078] In some embodiments, Figure 7 In this context, the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause device 100 to perform: according to The second covariance matrix CV-M-2 is determined based on the first covariance matrix CV-M-1, where, The second covariance matrix CV-M-2 is characterized. In some embodiments, the second covariance matrix CV-M-2 can be determined for any simulated beam (e.g., including the first simulated beam 1 and the second simulated beam 2).

[0079] Further exemplary aspects and exemplary embodiments are disclosed below, which in some embodiments may be combined with each other and / or with at least one of the foregoing aspects.

[0080] In some embodiments, different analog beams 1, 2 ( Figure 5 Two consecutive sets of SRS measurements observed (e.g., reference signals RS-1 and RS-2) Figure 2 The first information I-1 and / or the corresponding digital beamformer as described below are used to determine the first information I-1 and / or the corresponding digital beamformer.

[0081] In some embodiments, assuming y i It is the SRS measurement vector after the simulated beam i is applied, where y i The size is N T ×1, N T This refers to, for example, the number of digital transmit / receive chains (“TRX”) used to receive SRS.

[0082] In some embodiments, it is assumed that Z SRS It is the SRS measurement vector (e.g., at least similar to) before the simulated phase (e.g., phase shift) is applied. Figure 7 The measurement vector MV), where Z SRS The size is N P ×1, N P This refers to, for example, the number of phase shifters used to receive SRS.

[0083] In some embodiments, assuming w i It is the weight matrix corresponding to the simulated beam i, where w i The size is N T ×N T N P .

[0084] In some embodiments, y i With Z SRSThe relationship between them is y i =w i Z SRS .

[0085] In some embodiments, the first aspect (“Step 1”) may include one or more of the following aspects: Measuring y from the received SRS data. i Determine Z SRS In some examples, y i A single measurement may not be sufficient to determine Z. SRS Because it forms an underdetermined system to solve Z. SRS However, in some embodiments, by performing, for example, simulations corresponding to two different simulated beams i and k (e.g., Figure 5 Two measurements (i≠k) of simulated beam 1 and simulated beam 2 (e.g., two different measurements) can yield a well-defined system, where y i =w i Z SRS and y k =w k Z SRS In some embodiments, according to Z SRS =(w H w) -1 w H y, use y i and y k Solve for Z SRS . and It can be executed. Note that this is based on some embodiments from y. i and y k Get Z SRS One example method. In some embodiments, the principles and subsequent methods described exemplary according to the exemplary embodiments are also applicable to, for example, any other equation-solving method.

[0086] Note that in some embodiments, such as when w is full rank, the pseudo-inverse (w) H w) -1 w H Simplified to w -1 .

[0087] In some embodiments, the second aspect (“step 2”) may include one or more of the following aspects. In some embodiments, Z SRS It can be used to determine (e.g., calculate) with Z SRS The corresponding covariance matrix R zz ,because

[0088] In some embodiments, the third aspect (“step 3”) may include one or more of the following aspects. In some embodiments, y corresponding to any analog beam i i covariance matrix It can be determined as:

[0089] (e.g., replacing y) i )

[0090] In some embodiments, for example, subsequently, It can be used, for example, to determine digital beams (e.g., DIG-B, see...). Figure 8 In some embodiments, the digital beam can be used for, for example, signal switching, such as PDSCH transmission and / or PUSCH reception.

[0091] In some embodiments, the digital beam thus determined can be used, for example, for PDSCH transmission and / or PUSCH reception, such as between the reception of subsequent SRS measurements, and can be updated, for example, when an SRS measurement is received in the next cycle (e.g., the SRS cycle).

[0092] In some embodiments, Z is at least temporarily stored. SRS A digital beamformer that can determine the optimal analog beam independently of the UE 20 (e.g., currently) reduces the need to store the covariance matrix of each analog beam, for example, according to some conventional methods.

[0093] In some embodiments, the principle of the embodiments can be used for static channels and time-varying channels through which reference signals can be received.

[0094] In some embodiments, under static channel conditions, the channel for exchanging (e.g., transmitting, for example, from UE 20 to gNB 10) SRS does not change between two SRS receptions. In this case, in some embodiments, the first information I-1 and / or Z can be accurately determined. SRS It can also accurately determine R. zz and

[0095] In some embodiments, Figure 8In this embodiment, when executed by at least one processor, the instructions cause the device 100 to perform at least one of the following: a) determining a digital beam DIG-B for exchanging a signal 332 (e.g., transmit and / or receive) based on first information I-1; b) exchanging a signal CS (e.g., transmit and / or receive) using the digital beam DIG-B; c) updating the digital beam DIG-B, for example based on further measurements (e.g., SRS measurements), for example after a subsequent SRS cycle, thereby obtaining an updated digital beam DIG-B'. In some embodiments, the updated digital beam DIG-B' can be used for signal exchange, for example, similar to... Figure 8 Box 332.

[0096] In some embodiments, control signals (e.g., control signals according to some recognized standards) may be exchanged using digital beamforming (and / or corresponding analog beamforming). In other words, according to Figure 8 The signal CS that can be exchanged in box 332 can be a control signal.

[0097] As an example, in some embodiments, digital beam DIG-B (and / or corresponding analog beams 1, 2, 3 or 4) can be used. Figure 5 Send and / or receive at least one of the following signals: for example, a) a signal associated with the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) and / or b) a signal associated with the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) according to some recognized standards.

[0098] In some embodiments, Figure 9 In the instruction, when executed by at least one processor, the apparatus 100 causes to: 340 determine an estimated EST-MV of the measurement vector MV based on a first measurement RS-M-1 and a second measurement RS-M-2; 342 determine a first covariance matrix CV-M-1-EST-MV for the estimated EST-MV based on the estimated EST-MV; and 344 determine a second covariance matrix CV-M-2-EST-MV associated with the estimate based on the first covariance matrix CV-M-1-EST-MV, the second covariance matrix CV-M-2-EST-MV being associated with one of a first analog beam 1 and a second analog beam 2. In some embodiments, this process may be used, for example, when exchanging reference signals RS-1, RS-2 via a time-varying channel. Option block 346 indicates that, optionally, first information I-1 is determined based on the second covariance matrix CV-M-2-EST-MV.

[0099] In some embodiments, such as in the case of a time-varying channel, for example, from one SRS transmission to a subsequent SRS transmission, the channel through which the SRS is transmitted changes. In some embodiments, this means that in two consecutive or consecutive SRS measurements considered in some embodiments, the underlying Z...SRS They are not the same. However, in some embodiments, there can be a certain degree of correlation between the channels of consecutive SRS transmissions, i.e., the underlying Z from two corresponding consecutive measurements. SRS There may be some degree of correlation between them.

[0100] Therefore, in some embodiments, a similar method to that exemplified above with respect to embodiments associated with a static channel may be used.

[0101] In some embodiments, for example, before the analog beam is applied, assume Z SRS,t Z is the estimated SRS measurement at time t. SRS,t+p It is an estimated SRS measurement at time t+p (e.g., at least similar to that by...). Figure 9 The estimated EST-MV was obtained from box 340.

[0102] It should be noted that in some embodiments, t+p and Z SRS,t+p It cannot be directly determined (e.g., observed) because in some embodiments, the relevant signal may be measured / estimated, for example, only after the application of analog beam weights.

[0103] In some embodiments, p can be an SRS transmission period, for example, see Figure 5 The element TD. In some embodiments, it is assumed that y i,t It is the SRS measurement at time t after the simulated beam i is applied, and it is assumed that y k,t+p It is an SRS measurement at time t+p after (another) simulated beam k is applied.

[0104] In some embodiments, for example, according to y i,t and y k,t+p Two consecutive measurements determine (e.g., estimate) Z. SRS,t+p In some embodiments, it is assumed that It is Z SRS,t+p An estimate. In some embodiments, determined (e.g., calculated). In some embodiments, for at least one (e.g., any one) simulated beam i, determine (e.g., calculate)

[0105] In some embodiments, it is recommended to determine, for example, calculate, the corresponding covariance matrix of one or more (e.g., all) analog beams in the current channel.

[0106] In some embodiments, for example, due to Z SRS,t and Z SRS,t+p The estimation is different in time-varying channels. It can include Z with beam iSRS,t (e.g., the previous channel) and Z with beam k SRS,t+p (For example, the inherent information of the current channel). Therefore, in some embodiments, using It is possible to efficiently determine (e.g., calculate) y k,t+p and the corresponding covariance matrix (For example, the current channel). Furthermore, in some embodiments, y can also be determined. i,t (e.g., calculate) and the corresponding covariance matrix. (For example, the previous channel). However, in some embodiments, in the current channel time slot t+p, (i≠k) may be inaccurate because It may include Z with simulated beam k SRS,t+p Information, but does not include information with analog beam i.

[0107] Therefore, in some embodiments, Figure 10 In the instruction, when executed by at least one processor, the device 100 performs at least one of the following: a) determining, for example, the accuracy ACC-EST-MV of the estimated EST-MV of the measurement vector 350 based on the normalized mean square error (NMSE), b) determining, for example, the accuracy ACC-2-EST-MV of the second covariance matrix CV-M-2-EST-MV associated with the estimate 352 based on the NMSE.

[0108] Therefore, in some embodiments, in order to measure estimation To Z SRS,t+p The accuracy can be measured using normalized mean square error (NMSE), and in some embodiments, in order to measure... arrive The accuracy can be achieved by using targeted methods. The NMSE of (“RNMSE”) is as follows:

[0109]

[0110] Where ||·|| denotes the L2 norm of the vector, and ||·|| F This represents the Frobenius norm of the matrix.

[0111] As an example, in some embodiments, NMSE can take the value y. k,t+p The norm of the difference between the estimated measurement and the actual measurement, and expressed in terms of y k,t+p Normalize it using the actual norm.

[0112] As yet another example, in some embodiments, similarly, RMNSE may take the form corresponding to y. k,t+pThe Frobenius norm of the difference between the estimated covariance matrix and the actual covariance matrix, and expressed as y k,t+p Normalize the actual covariance matrix.

[0113] Figure 1B In some embodiments, there are devices 100' for a communication system 1000, the devices 100' including a component 102', the component 102' being used to: determine 300 ( Figure 3 ) A first measurement of the first reference signal associated with the first analog beam used to receive the first reference signal, 302 a second measurement of the second reference signal associated with the second analog beam used to receive the second reference signal, 304 determining first information characterizing the digital beamformer based on the first and second measurements.

[0114] In some embodiments, Figure 1B In this context, the components for determining the first measurement and the second measurement, and the means 102' for determining the first information, may, for example, include at least one processor 102. Figure 1A The device performs the above-mentioned aspects when executed by at least one processor 102, and at least one memory 104 storing instruction 106.

[0115] In some embodiments, Figure 1B The component 102' for determining the first measurement and the second measurement and for determining the first information may, for example, include circuitry configured to perform one or more of the above aspects.

[0116] Figure 2 Some embodiments relate to a network device 10 (e.g., a base station, such as a gNB) for a communication system 1000, including at least one device 100, 100' according to an embodiment.

[0117] Figure 2 Some embodiments relate to a terminal device 20 (e.g., UE) for a communication system 1000, including at least one device 100, 100' according to an embodiment.

[0118] Figure 2 Some embodiments relate to a communication system 1000, including at least one of the following: a) apparatus 100, 100' according to an embodiment, and / or b) network device 10 according to an embodiment, and / or c) terminal device 20 according to an embodiment.

[0119] Figure 3Some embodiments relate to a method for a communication system 1000, including: determining 300 a first measurement of a first reference signal associated with a first analog beam used to receive a first reference signal, determining 302 a second measurement of a second reference signal associated with a second analog beam used to receive a second reference signal, and determining 304 first information characterizing a digital beamformer based on the first and second measurements.

[0120] In some embodiments, the method may include one or more further aspects according to these embodiments.

[0121] Figure 1A In further embodiments, a computer program is involved, including instructions 106, which, when executed by a computer, such as a processor 102, cause the computer to perform at least some aspects of the method according to the embodiments.

[0122] Further exemplary aspects and example embodiments are disclosed below, which in some embodiments may be combined with each other and / or with at least one of the foregoing aspects.

[0123] In some embodiments, a hybrid beamforming HBF (using a combination of digital beamforming DBF and analog beamforming ABF) is employed. Figure 2 This can reduce the cost and / or weight of device 100 and / or target devices 10, 20 used in the device. Furthermore, in some embodiments, complexity and / or power consumption can be reduced through hybrid beamforming (HBF), for example, by reducing the number of RF signal processing chains.

[0124] As described above, in some embodiments, a hybrid beamforming architecture can be provided that uses digital beamforming in the horizontal direction and analog beamforming in the vertical direction, for example, because the distribution of UEs or users is larger in the horizontal direction and relatively smaller in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the lower distribution of users in the vertical direction may mean that a relatively small number of analog beams in the vertical direction is sufficient to provide adequate coverage in the vertical direction.

[0125] In some embodiments, because the analog beamformer ABF may contain additional phase shifters, using a hybrid beamforming HBF (e.g., instead of digital beamforming) for SRS reception may result in SRS measurements being “colored” by the lens of the analog beamformer ABF.

[0126] In some embodiments, for example, at elevation angles of {-2, -5, -8, -11} degrees, four relatively narrow analog beams 1, 2, 3, 4 can be provided. Figure 5 For example, it can be used in 5G communication systems 1000.

[0127] In some examples, such as using conventional methods (e.g., determining the UE's digital beamformer at any time), it is necessary to determine the channel estimates and corresponding covariance matrices for at least all four analog beams.

[0128] In some examples, such as a four-analog phase shifter setup and two TRX per column in an HBF architecture, it may be necessary to compute the channels and corresponding covariance matrices for up to 20 different beams (not shown). Consequently, it may be necessary to compute digital beamformers for all these analog beams, as in some embodiments, the UE's optimal analog beam may change over time based on varying channel conditions. Furthermore, in HBF, the UE may sometimes be scheduled on its second, third, or even later optimal analog beam, for example, to reduce the delay of waiting for the UE's optimal beam to be scheduled.

[0129] In some conventional methods, digital beamformers are determined by performing as many estimations / measurements as analog beamformers, and by using measurements performed only on the analog beamformer used for that analog beamformer.

[0130] In contrast, the principles of the embodiments enable the determination of the digital beamformer (or the corresponding first information I-1) such that, for example, instead of performing as many estimations / measurements as for the analog beam and using the measurements performed on the analog beam only for that analog beam, in some embodiments, only two (e.g., (but not necessarily) consecutive) SRS measurements performed on any two different analog beams are used.

[0131] In other words, in some embodiments, these two measurements are sufficient to select a digital beam for any analog beamformer, thereby saving, for example, the number of measurements and avoiding estimated delays and obsolescence.

[0132] Furthermore, in some embodiments, for example, instead of storing the covariance matrix corresponding to each analog beam, in other embodiments, only the covariance matrix of the channel prior to the phase shifter can be stored, and in some embodiments, this matrix can then be used to determine the covariance matrix at the digital port (e.g., digital input). In some embodiments, this applies to both static and time-varying channels.

Claims

1. An apparatus (100) for a communication system (1000), the apparatus (100) comprising at least one processor (102) and at least one memory (104) storing instructions (106), the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (102), causing the apparatus (100) to: Determine (300) the first measurement (RS-M-1) of the first reference signal (RS-1) associated with the first analog beam (1) used to receive the first reference signal (RS-1). Determine (302) the second measurement (RS-M-2) of the second reference signal (RS-2) associated with the second analog beam (2) used to receive the second reference signal (RS-2). Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (304). The instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the device (100) to determine (304) the first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2) in the following manner: Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), a measurement vector (MV) characterizing the first reference signal (RS-1) and the second reference signal (RS-2) is determined (320). The first covariance matrix (CV-M-1) is determined based on the measurement vector (MV). Based on the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1), a second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) is determined (324), the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) being associated with at least one of the first analog beam (1) and the second analog beam (2). Based on the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2), the first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (326).

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2) are continuous measurements.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the apparatus (100) to: The digital beamformer (DBF) performs (310) digital beamforming in a first direction (DIR-1) and (312) analog beamforming in a second direction (DIR-2), which is different from the first direction.

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor (102), cause the apparatus (100) to perform at least one of the following: a) According to Determine (320) the measurement vector (MV), where Characterizing the measurement vector (MV), where ,in The first measurement (RS-M-1) characterizing the first reference signal (RS-1) associated with the first analog beam (1), wherein The second measurement (RS-M-2) characterizing the second reference signal (RS-2) associated with the second analog beam (2), wherein ,in The weight matrix associated with the first simulated beam (1) is characterized, wherein The weight matrix associated with the second simulated beam (2) is characterized, where yes ,in Inverting the representation matrix b) According to Based on the measurement vector (MV), determine (322) the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1), where The first covariance matrix (CV-M-1) is represented. c) According to The second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) is determined based on the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1), where... The covariance matrix (CV-M-2) is characterized by being associated with at least one of the first simulated beam (1) and the second simulated beam (2).

5. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the apparatus (100) to perform at least one of the following: a) Based on the first information (I-1), determine (330) the digital beam (DIG-B) used for signal exchange. b) Using the digital beam (DIG-B), switch the (332) signal. c) Update the digital beam (DIG-B) described in (334).

6. The apparatus (100) according to claim 5, wherein the digital beam (DIG-B) for exchanging the signal comprises at least one of the following: a digital beam for transmitting the signal, or a digital beam for receiving the signal. Alternatively, the use of the digital beam (DIG-B) to exchange (332) the signal may include at least one of the following: transmitting the signal using the digital beam (DIG-B), or receiving the signal using the digital beam (DIG-B).

7. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the apparatus (100) to: Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), an estimate of the measurement vector (EST-MV) is determined (340). Based on the estimate (EST-MV), determine (342) the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1-EST-MV) for the estimate (EST-MV). Based on the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1-EST-MV) for the estimated (EST-MV). Determine (324) a second covariance matrix (CV-M-2-EST-MV) associated with the estimate (EST-MV), the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2-EST-MV) being associated with one of the first simulated beam (1) and the second simulated beam (2).

8. The apparatus (100) according to claim 7, wherein the instruction (106), when executed by the at least one processor (102), causes the apparatus (100) to perform at least one of the following: a) Determine the accuracy of the estimate (EST-MV) of the measurement vector (350) (ACC-EST-MV). b) Determine (352) the accuracy (ACC-2-EST-MV) of the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2-EST-MV) associated with the estimated (EST-MV).

9. An apparatus (100') for a communication system (1000), the apparatus (100') comprising a component (102') for: Determine (300) the first measurement (RS-M-1) of the first reference signal (RS-1) associated with the first analog beam (1) used to receive the first reference signal (RS-1). Determine (302) the second measurement (RS-M-2) of the second reference signal (RS-2) associated with the second analog beam (2) used to receive the second reference signal (RS-2). Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (304). The first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) determined (304) based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2) includes: Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), a measurement vector (MV) characterizing the first reference signal (RS-1) and the second reference signal (RS-2) is determined (320). The first covariance matrix (CV-M-1) is determined based on the measurement vector (MV). Based on the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1), a second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) is determined (324), the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) being associated with at least one of the first analog beam (1) and the second analog beam (2). Based on the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2), the first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (326).

10. A network device (10) for a communication system (1000), comprising at least one means (100; 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A terminal device (20) for a communication system (1000), comprising at least one device (100; 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. A communication system (1000) comprising at least one of the following: a) The apparatus (100; 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and / or b) The network device (10) according to claim 10, and / or c) The terminal device (20) according to claim 11.

13. A method for a communication system (1000), comprising: Determine (300) the first measurement (RS-M-1) of the first reference signal (RS-1) associated with the first analog beam (1) used to receive the first reference signal (RS-1). Determine (302) the second measurement (RS-M-2) of the second reference signal (RS-2) associated with the second analog beam (2) used to receive the second reference signal (RS-2). Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (304). The first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) determined (304) based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2) includes: Based on the first measurement (RS-M-1) and the second measurement (RS-M-2), a measurement vector (MV) characterizing the first reference signal (RS-1) and the second reference signal (RS-2) is determined (320). The first covariance matrix (CV-M-1) is determined based on the measurement vector (MV). Based on the first covariance matrix (CV-M-1), a second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) is determined (324), the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2) being associated with at least one of the first analog beam (1) and the second analog beam (2). Based on the second covariance matrix (CV-M-2), the first information (I-1) characterizing the digital beamformer (DBF) is determined (326).

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