Systems and methods for resource indication

Abstract

Systems and methods for resource indication are presented. A network node can receive, from a wireless communication node, (i) beam information and (ii) at least one of (a) time domain information. The time domain information can be used to indicate a time interval in which the beam information can be applied by the network node.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wireless communication, including but not limited to systems and methods for resource indication. BACKGROUND

[0002] The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standardization organization is currently developing a new radio interface, called 5G New Radio (5G NR), and a next generation packet core network (NG-CN or NGC). The 5G NR will have three main components: a 5G access network (5G-AN), a 5G core network (5GC), and a user equipment (UE). To facilitate the implementation of different data services and requirements, the components of the 5GC (also referred to as network functions) have been simplified, some of which are software-based and some of which are hardware-based, in order to adjust them as needed. SUMMARY

[0003] The example embodiments disclosed herein are directed to addressing one or more of the problems set forth in the background art, as well as providing additional features that will become apparent when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the drawings. In accordance with various embodiments, example systems, methods, devices, and computer program products are disclosed herein. It should be understood, however, that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, not limitation, and that the disclosure can be practiced with various modifications within the scope of the disclosure, which will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the detailed description.

[0004] At least one aspect relates to a system, method, apparatus, or computer readable medium. A network node (e.g., a network control relay (NCR), a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)) can receive, from a wireless communication node, at least one of (i) beam information and / or (ii) time domain information (e.g., time resource information for applying a beam). The time domain information can be used to indicate a time interval in which the beam information is to be applied by the network node. In some embodiments, the network node is to use or operate, in accordance with the beam information and the time domain information, one of: a first control link from the wireless communication node to the network node; a second control link from the network node to the wireless communication node; a first forwarding link from the wireless communication node to the network node; a second forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication node; a third forwarding link from the network node to a wireless communication device; or a fourth forwarding link from the wireless communication device to the network node.

[0005] In some embodiments, the beam information can include at least one of: an index of the beam, or an index of a source reference signal corresponding to the beam. The time domain information can include at least one of: an applicable time defined by a plurality of parameters, a time offset, or a time domain granularity. The applicable time can be defined by at least one of: a start time, a start time and a duration, a start time and an end time, a start and length indicator value (SLIV) representing the start time and the duration, or a bitmap corresponding to a plurality of time intervals, where each bit value of the bitmap can indicate whether the beam information can be applied at a corresponding time interval of the plurality of time intervals.

[0006] In some embodiments, the duration can include at least one of: a first value indicating a number of slots (e.g., Lslot), or a second value indicating a number of symbols (e.g., Lsymbol). The time offset can include at least one of: a slot offset for indicating an offset of a plurality of slots from a defined slot, or a symbol offset for indicating an offset of a plurality of symbols from a defined symbol. The time domain granularity can include at least one of: a flag (e.g., a defined parameter or a bit value) indicating whether a symbol level granularity or a slot level granularity is used for at least one of the applicable time or the time offset, or a bitmap of bit values for a plurality of slots, where each bit value of the bitmap indicates, in a corresponding slot of the plurality of slots, whether the symbol level granularity or the slot level granularity is used for at least one of the applicable time or the time offset.

[0007] In some embodiments, the beam information is to be applied at a time offset after the network node receives the beam information (e.g., when or in response to the network node receiving the beam information). The beam information can be applied at a time offset after the network node receives the beam information. The beam information can be applied until another beam information is received by the network node.

[0008] In some embodiments, the network node can receive, from a wireless communication node (e.g., a BS), a configuration (e.g., an RRC message) or an indication (e.g., a MAC CE, a DCI message) of an absolute length of a symbol or a slot of a frequency band of at least one of a plurality of forwarding links. The configuration or indication can include a scaling factor for the frequency band, which can be relative to a subcarrier spacing (SCS) of a control link (or a specific reference link) between the network node and the wireless communication node. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI).

[0009] In some embodiments, the time domain information can further include a periodicity of a duration (e.g., a period of the valid duration). The network node can receive the plurality of time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network node can receive, from the wireless communication node via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message, the time domain information from the plurality of time domain information to be applied. The network node can receive, from the wireless communication node via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message, a set of time domain information from the plurality of time domain information. The network node can receive, from the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI) message, the time domain information from the set to be applied.

[0010] In some embodiments, the network node can receive the plurality of time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network node can receive, from the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI) message, the time domain information from the plurality of time domain information to be applied. The time domain information can be associated with the beam information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Various example embodiments of the present solution are described in detail below in conjunction with the following figures or drawings. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only and merely depict example embodiments of the present solution to facilitate the reader’s understanding of the present solution. Consequently, the drawings should not be considered to be limiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the present solution. It should be noted that for clarity and ease of illustration, these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.

[0012] Figure 1 FIGURE 1 illustrates an example cellular communications network in which the techniques disclosed herein can be implemented, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 FIGURE 2 illustrates a block diagram of an example base station and user equipment device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3 FIGURE 3 illustrates an example implementation of resource indication, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 4 FIGURE 4 illustrates an example implementation of a network controlled repeater (NCR), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 5 FIGURE 5 illustrates example time domain resources occupied by at least one synchronization signal block (SSB), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0017] Figure 6 FIGURE 6 illustrates a flow diagram for resource indication and / or usage / operation of at least one channel, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] 1. Mobile Communications Technology and Environment

[0019] Figure 1 An example wireless communication network and / or system 100 in which the technology disclosed herein can be implemented is illustrated in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following discussion, the wireless communication network 100 can be any wireless network, such as a cellular network or a Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network, and is referred to herein as the “network 100.” Such an example network 100 includes a cluster of base stations 102 (hereinafter “BSs 102”; also referred to as wireless communication nodes) and user equipment devices 104 (hereinafter also referred to as “UEs 104”; also referred to as wireless communication devices) that can communicate with each other via communication links 110 (e.g., wireless communication channels), as well as cells 126, 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 that cover a geographic area 101. In Figure 1 particular, the BSs 102 and UEs 104 are contained within respective geographic boundaries of the cell 126. Each of the other cells 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 can include at least one base station operating with its allocated bandwidth to provide sufficient radio coverage to its intended users.

[0020] For example, the BS 102 can operate with an allocated channel transmission bandwidth to provide sufficient coverage to the UEs 104. The BS 102 and UEs 104 can communicate via downlink radio frames 118 and uplink radio frames 124, respectively. Each radio frame 118 / 124 can be further divided into subframes 120 / 127, which can include data symbols 122 / 128. In the present disclosure, the BSs 102 and UEs 104 are described herein as non-limiting examples of “communication nodes,” which can generally practice the methods disclosed herein. According to various embodiments of the present solution, such communication nodes can be capable of wireless and / or wired communication.

[0021] Figure 2 A block diagram of an example wireless communication system 200 for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals (e.g., OFDM / OFDMA signals) in accordance with some embodiments of the present solution is illustrated. The system 200 can include components and elements configured to support known or conventional operational features that need not be described in detail herein. In one illustrative embodiment, the system 200 can be used to communicate (e.g., transmit and receive) data symbols in a wireless communication environment 100, such as described above. Figure 1

[0022] ​The system 200 generally includes a base station 202 (hereinafter simply "BS 202") and a user equipment device 204 (hereinafter simply "UE 204"). The BS 202 includes a BS (base station) transceiver module 210, a BS antenna 212, a BS processor module 214, a BS memory module 216, and a network communication module 218, each coupled and interconnected to each other as necessary via a data communication bus 220. The UE 204 includes a UE (user equipment) transceiver module 230, a UE antenna 232, a UE memory module 234, and a UE processor module 236, each coupled and interconnected to each other as necessary via a data communication bus 240. The BS 202 communicates with the UE 204 via a communication channel 250, which can be any wireless channel or other medium suitable for data transmission as described herein.

[0023] As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the system 200 can also include any number of other modules in addition to those shown. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative blocks, modules, circuits, and processing logic described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, computer-readable software, firmware, or any practical combination thereof. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality, without reference to a specific Figure 2 implementation in hardware, firmware, and software. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware, firmware, or software can depend on the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Those familiar with the concepts described herein can implement such functionality in a suitable manner for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the UE transceiver 230 can be referred to herein as an "uplink" transceiver 230, which includes a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and an RF receiver, each including circuitry coupled to an antenna 232. A duplexing switch (not shown) can alternatively couple the uplink transmitter or receiver to the uplink antenna in a time duplexed manner. Similarly, according to some embodiments, the BS transceiver 210 can be referred to herein as a "downlink" transceiver 210, which includes an RF transmitter and an RF receiver, each including circuitry coupled to an antenna 212. A downlink duplexing switch can alternatively couple the downlink transmitter or receiver to the downlink antenna 212 in a time duplexed manner. The operation of the two transceiver modules 210 and 230 can be coordinated in time, such that the uplink receiver circuitry is coupled to the uplink antenna 232 for reception of transmissions over the wireless transmission link 250 while the downlink transmitter is coupled to the downlink antenna 212. Conversely, the operation of the two transceivers 210 and 230 can be coordinated in time, such that the downlink receiver is coupled to the downlink antenna 212 for reception of transmissions over the wireless transmission link 250 while the uplink transmitter is coupled to the uplink antenna 232. In some embodiments, there is a tight time synchronization with minimal guard time between changes in duplex direction.

[0025] The UE transceiver 230 and the base station transceiver 210 are configured to communicate via the wireless data communication link 250, and in cooperation with appropriately configured RF antenna arrangements 212 / 232 capable of supporting a particular wireless communication protocol and modulation scheme. In some illustrative embodiments, the UE transceiver 210 and the base station transceiver 210 are configured to support industry standards such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and emerging 5G standards. However, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to application with particular standards and related protocols. Rather, the UE transceiver 230 and the base station transceiver 210 can be configured to support alternative or additional wireless data communication protocols, including future standards or variants thereof.

[0026] According to various embodiments, the BS 202 can be an evolved Node B (eNB), a gNB, a serving eNB, a target eNB, a femto station, or a pico station, for example. In some embodiments, the UE 204 can be embodied in various types of user equipment such as a mobile phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a wearable computing device, etc. The processor modules 214 and 236 can be implemented or embodied with a general purpose processor, content addressable memory, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, any suitable programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. In this manner, the processor can be implemented as a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, etc. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of a

[0027] Further, the steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in firmware, in a software module executed by processor modules 214 and 236, respectively, or in any practical combination thereof. The memory modules 216 and 234 can be implemented as RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. In this regard, the memory modules 216 and 234 can be coupled to the processor modules 210 and 230, respectively, such that the processor modules 210 and 230 can read information from, and write information to, the memory modules 216 and 234, respectively. The memory modules 216 and 234 can also be integrated into their respective processor modules 210 and 230. In some embodiments, the memory modules 216 and 234 can each include a cache memory for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions to be executed by the processor modules 210 and 230, respectively. The memory modules 216 and 234 can also each include a non-volatile storage for storing instructions to be executed by the processor modules 210 and 230, respectively.

[0028] The network communications module 218 generally represents the hardware, software, firmware, processing logic and / or other components of the base station 202 that enable it to communicate with other network components and communication nodes configured to communicate with the network base station 202. For example, the network communications module 218 can be configured to support Internet or WiMAX traffic. In a typical deployment, without limitation, the network communications module 218 provides an 802.3 Ethernet interface so that the base station transceiver 210 can communicate with a conventional Ethernet-based computer network. In this manner, the network communications module 218 can include a physical interface for connection to a computer network (e.g., a mobile switching center (MSC)). As used herein with respect to an identified operation or function, the terms "configured to," "adapted to," and variations thereof mean that the device, component, circuit, structure, machine, signal, etc. is physically constructed, programmed, formatted, and / or arranged to perform the identified operation or function.

[0029] The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model (referred to herein as the "open systems interconnection model") is a conceptual and logical layout that defines network communications used by systems (e.g., wireless communication devices, wireless communication nodes) that are open to interconnect and communicate with other systems. The model is divided into seven subcomponents or layers, each representing a conceptual set of services offered to the layers above and below it. The OSI model also defines a logical network and effectively describes computer packet transmission by using different layer protocols. The OSI model can also be referred to as the seven-layer OSI model or seven-layer model. In some embodiments, the first layer can be a physical layer. In some embodiments, the second layer can be a medium access control (MAC) layer. In some embodiments, the third layer can be a radio link control (RLC) layer. In some embodiments, the fourth layer can be a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer. In some embodiments, the fifth layer can be a radio resource control (RRC) layer. In some embodiments, the sixth layer can be a non-access stratum (NAS) layer or an internet protocol (IP) layer, and the seventh layer is another layer.

[0030] Various example embodiments of the present solution are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that a person of ordinary skill in the art can make and use the present solution. As is clear to a person of ordinary skill in the art, after reading the present disclosure, various changes or modifications can be made to the examples described herein without departing from the scope of the present solution. Therefore, the present solution is not limited to the example embodiments and applications described and illustrated herein. Moreover, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed herein are merely example methods. The specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosed methods or processes can be rearranged based on design preferences without departing from the scope of the present solution. Therefore, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the methods and techniques disclosed herein present various steps or acts in an example order, and the present solution is not limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented unless explicitly stated otherwise.2. Systems and methods for resource indication and / or use of at least one channel

[0031] As new radio (NR) systems move to higher frequencies (e.g., for frequency range 1 (FR1) deployments, around 4 GHz, and for frequency range 2 (FR2) deployments, above 24 GHz), propagation conditions can degrade compared to lower frequencies, which can exacerbate coverage challenges. As such, further densification of the cell can be desirable. While deploying regular full-stack cells is preferred, this deployment can not always be possible (e.g., backhaul is not available) and / or an economically viable option. To provide full coverage in a cellular network deployment at a relatively low cost, radio frequency (RF) repeaters with full-duplex amplify-and-forward operations can be used for 2G, 3G, and 4G systems. However, RF repeaters can not be efficient for 5G NR systems, which can use beam management to facilitate directional transmissions in high frequency bands defined for time division duplex (TDD). RF repeaters without beam management functionality can not be able to provide suitable beamforming gain in signal forwarding and can cause unnecessary interference.

[0032] To address / handle / manage the above issues, a network-controlled repeater (NCR) can be considered, which can utilize control information from a BS to enable intelligent amplify-and-forward operations. The control information can include both beam information and applicable resources. The NCR (which can sometimes be referred to as a network node or intelligent node / repeater) can use the indicated beams (e.g., indicated according to the beam information) and applicable resources (e.g., indicated according to the time resource information) to conduct / perform / enable amplify-and-forward operation(s). In the present disclosure, a method for resource information associated with beam information for a wireless network with NCRs is proposed.

[0033] RF repeaters can be used for 2G, 3G, and 4G deployments to complement the coverage provided by regular full-stack cells with various transmission power characteristics. RF repeaters can be the simplest and most cost-effective method for improving network coverage. The main advantages of RF repeaters are low cost, easy to deploy, and RF repeaters can not increase latency. The main disadvantage can be that RF repeaters amplify both signals and noise. Therefore, RF repeaters can increase interference (e.g., signal pollution) in the system. Within RF repeaters, there can be different categories depending on the power characteristics and the amount of spectrum (e.g., single band, multi-band) that RF repeaters can be configured to amplify. RF repeaters can be non-regenerative relay nodes and can simply amplify and forward signals in an omni-directional manner.

[0034] From a functional perspective, the general structure of an NCR is shown in Figure 3 The NCR controller can maintain a control link (C-link) between the BS and the NCR to enable information exchange (e.g., carrying side control information). The NCR-RU (e.g., radio unit) can forward data between the BS and the UE(s) using forwarding links (F-links), which can refer to F-links for backhaul (e.g., F-links 1 and 2) and F-links for access (e.g., F-links 3 and 4). The behavior of the F-link(s) can be controlled according to side control information received from the BS.

[0035] As shown in Figure 4 The transmission links between BS to NCR and NCR to UE can be defined / described / provided as follows:

[0036] C-link 1: Control link from BS to NCR CU;

[0037] C-link 2: Control link from NCR CU to BS;

[0038] F-link 1: Forwarding link from BS to NCR FU;

[0039] F-link 2: Forwarding link from NCR FU to BS;

[0040] F-link 3: Forwarding link from NCR FU to UE; and

[0041] F-link 4: Forwarding link from UE to NCR FU.

[0042] A control link can refer or mean that a signal from one side can be detected and decoded by the other side, such that information transmitted in the control link can be used to control the state of the forwarding link. A forwarding link can mean that a signal from a BS or a UE is unknown (or not resolved / decoded / checked by the NCR FU) to the NCR FU. In this case, the NCR FU can amplify and forward the signal without decoding it. For example, F2 and F4 links can correspond to or be associated with a perfect uplink (UL) forwarding link from a UE to a BS, where F2 is the NCR FU UL forwarding link. Further, Fl and F3 links can correspond to or be associated with a perfect DL forwarding link from a BS to a UE, where F3 is the NCR FU DL forwarding link.

[0043] The NCR can communicate with the BS and / or UE according to information (e.g., time-domain information or beam information) from the BS and / or UE. In some embodiments, the NCR can use / need / require resource information associated with a beam of the NCR used on the F link. The beam of the NCR can be represented / identified by a beam index corresponding to the beam or a source reference signal (e.g., a reference signal in a particular transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state). The resource information can include time-domain and / or frequency-domain information. Further, the time-domain information in this disclosure can be used to indicate applicable time for other operations of the NCR (e.g., power control, switching).

[0044] The resource information (e.g., time-domain information of one or more resources) can be issued to the NCR by an indication from the BS and / or UE. The time-domain information can include at least one of the following aspects: (1) parameter(s) for defining applicable time; (2) a time offset; or (3) a time-domain granularity.

[0045] In some embodiments, the parameter(s) for defining applicable time can include at least one of the following: (i) a start time of a beam; (ii) an end time of the beam; or (iii) a duration from the start time. In some embodiments, the start time of the beam can be a start of a time-domain resource. The NCR can use the indicated beam for forwarding operation from the start time. In some embodiments, the end time of the beam (and / or an end time of the duration) can be an end of the time-domain resource. The NCR can stop using the indicated beam for forwarding operation from the end time. In some embodiments, the duration can be a time interval in the forwarding operation of the NCR that is applicable to the indicated beam.

[0046] In some embodiments, the time offset can be a necessary delay, including a propagation delay or a processing delay of the NCR. The start time of the beam can not be earlier than the time offset. If the start time of the beam is equal to the time offset, one of the two can be omitted.

[0047] In certain embodiments, time-domain granularity can be a time unit used in a forwarding operation, which can be symbol level and / or slot level. A slot offset can indicate an offset from a defined slot by a number of slots. A symbol offset can indicate an offset from a defined symbol by a number of symbols.

[0048] Implementation Example 1: Time-domain granularity

[0049] In forwarding or other operations of NCRs on a channel, time-domain granularity can be symbol level and / or slot level. For example, in beam training, symbol level granularity can be needed. In NR systems, synchronization signal block (SSB) and channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) can be used for downlink (DL) beam training, and sounding reference signal (SRS) can be used for uplink (UL) beam training. All these reference signals (RSs) can occupy symbol level time-domain resource(s). Therefore, beam direction change on Flink3 with symbol level granularity can be desirable / appropriate / needed. For another example, in normal data transmission, both symbol level granularity and slot level granularity can be needed / utilized. In NR systems, slot level scheduling can be used for non-URLLC data transmission. However, for ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) cases, symbol level scheduling can be used to meet stringent latency requirements. Therefore, both symbol level granularity and slot level granularity can be utilized / needed to support beam direction change of NCRs on Flink3.

[0050] RSs for beam training can be interleaved in a radio frame. As shown in Figure 4 , 5ms half frame including SSBs can be used / utilized as an example. SSBs can occupy 0~3 slots. To facilitate beam training, SSBs in 0~3 slots can be transmitted with different beams. Slot 4 can not include SSBs. Slot 4 can be used for normal data transmission with the same beam on all symbols of slot 4. For example, time-domain information and corresponding beam information (e.g., beam index or source reference signal index) of slot 0 and slot 4 can be as shown in Table 1. Time-domain information can include an indication of time-domain resource.

[0051]

[0052] Table 1

[0053] The indication of time-domain resource of slot 0 and slot 4 can have different time-domain granularity. To help NCRs understand the indication of time-domain resource, the following options can be available.

[0054] Option 1: BS can configure a slot level bitmap to indicate granularity

[0055] A slot-level bitmap can be used to indicate the time-domain granularity. For a 5ms half-frame, a BS can configure a slot-level bitmap with value "11110" to the NCR. A value of "1" can represent / indicate that symbol-level granularity can be used. A value of "0" can represent / indicate that slot-level granularity can be used. Thus, the NCR can expect / anticipate symbol-level granularity for time-domain resource indication for slots marked with "1". The NCR can expect / anticipate slot-level granularity for time-domain resource indication for slots marked with "0". In certain embodiments, a BS can configure a slot-level bitmap with value "11111" to the NCR to maintain flexibility of scheduling for slot 4. In this case, for example, slot 4 can be used for URLLC where symbol-level granularity can be supported / implemented.

[0056] Option 2: A flag can be used with time-domain information

[0057] A flag can be added to the time-domain information. For example, a flag with value "1" can indicate that symbol-level granularity can be used for time-domain resource indication. A flag with value "0" can indicate that slot-level granularity can be used for time-domain resource indication.

[0058] Implementation Example 2: Time offset and applicable time for a beam

[0059] In some embodiments, the time offset can be a time interval between a control information transmission by the BS and an earliest forwarding operation by the NCR according to the control information. The time offset can include a propagation delay, such as a processing delay of the NCR. Thus, the time offset can depend on the capability of the NCR. The capability of the NCR, including its processing delay, can be reported to the BS. The BS can determine the time offset based on the capability of the NCR. The time offset can not point to a time instance later than the start time. If the time instance indicated by the time offset is the same as the start time, one of the two parameters can be omitted.

[0060] The BS can configure a time offset to the NCR. The configurable time offset parameter can be slot-level and / or symbol-level. The beam information can include an indication of the beam information. For example, the BS can send an indication of the beam information to the NCR. The transmission of the indication can end in slot n. The time offset can be symbol K2 in slot n+K1, where K1 can be a configurable time offset with slot-level granularity and K2 can be a configurable time offset with symbol-level granularity. If slot n+K1 uses slot-level granularity (e.g., slot 4 in Implementation Example 1), the configuration of K2 can be omitted. If the start time is equal to the time offset and is omitted. The NCR can start a forwarding operation using the indicated beam from symbol K2 in slot n+K1. In some implementations, both K1 and K2 can be zero. In this case, the beam can be applied by the NCR after receiving the beam information (e.g., from slot n) with the time-domain information.

[0061] In some embodiments, the NCR can be deployed in different scenarios. For example, the NCR can be used to serve a coverage hole / gap. In this scenario, the possible beam directions on F-link 3 can be limited (e.g., within the coverage), and the beam direction change can not be frequent. As another example, the NCR can be used to enhance the coverage quality of a hotspot. In this scenario, the beam direction change on F-link 3 can be frequent. To efficiently support these scenarios, one or more of the following options can be used.

[0062] Option 1: The applicable time of a beam is indicated by at least one of a start time, an end time, or a duration

[0063] Sub-option 1

[0064] The start time can be indicated via a start slot and / or a start symbol. The BS can send the beam information and / or the time-domain information to the NCR. The beam information can include an indication of the beam. The start time of the beam in the time-domain information can include a start slot index Sslot and / or a start symbol index Ssymbol. The NCR can use the indicated beam from symbol Ssymbol in slot Sslot to start the forwarding operation. If slot Sslot uses slot-level granularity (e.g., slot 4 in Example 1 is implemented), the indication of Ssymbol can be omitted. The start time of the beam can not be earlier than the time offset. If the start time is equal to the time offset, the start time of the beam indication can be omitted.

[0065] The end time can be indicated via an end slot and / or an end symbol. The BS can send the beam information, the start slot index Sslot and / or the start symbol index Ssymbol, the end slot index Eslot and / or the end symbol index Esymbol to the NCR. The NCR can use the indicated beam from symbol Esymbol in slot Eslot to stop the forwarding operation. If slot Eslot uses slot-level granularity (e.g., slot 4 in Example 1 is implemented), the indication of Esymbol can be omitted. The start time can not be earlier than the time offset (the time instance indicated by the time offset). If the start time is equal to the time offset, the start time indication can be omitted.

[0066] A duration (e.g., a valid duration) from a start time can include a number of slots and / or a number of symbols. According to a periodicity, a corresponding beam can be used periodically within the valid duration. For example, a number of slots Lslot and a number of symbols Lsymbol can be included in time domain information of the duration indication. For example, a duration indicating a beam can be Lslot slots plus Lsymbol symbols. If the duration does not exceed one slot, the parameter Lslot can be omitted. If the duration is in units of slots (e.g., Lsymbol = 0), the parameter Lsymbol can be omitted.

[0067] Suboption 2

[0068] A start time and a duration can be indicated by combining parameters. Some examples can be provided below. A start and length indicator value (SLIV) can be defined for a duration with a predefined maximum length of time.

[0069] If the duration does not exceed one slot, a start symbol Ssymbol and a duration (e.g., a number of symbols Lsymbol) can be indicated using a start and length indicator value (SLIV), e.g., as explained / illustrated below.

[0070] If (Lsymbol - 1) ≤ Nsymbol / 2

[0071] SLIV = Nsymbol · (Lsymbol - 1) + Ssymbol

[0072] Otherwise SLIV = Nsymbol · (Nsymbol - Lsymbol + 1) + (Nsymbol - 1 - Ssymbol), where 0 < Lsymbol ≤ Nsymbol - Ssymbol, and Nsymbol can refer to a number of symbols contained in a slot. A valid SLIV can satisfy Ssymbol + Lsymbol ≤ Nsymbol.

[0073] If the duration has a slot-level granularity and does not exceed a subframe, a start slot Sslot and a duration (e.g., a number of symbols Lslot) can be indicated using a SLIV defined below.

[0074] If (Lslot - 1) ≤ Nslot / 2

[0075] SLIV = Nslot · (Lslot - 1) + Sslot

[0076] Otherwise SLIV = Nslot · (Nslot - Lslot + 1) + (Nslot - 1 - Sslot),

[0077] where 0 < Lslot≤ Nslot- Sslot, Nslot can refer to the number of slots contained in a subframe. The effective SLIV can satisfy Sslot+ Lslot≤ Nslot.

[0078] Option 2: Applicable duration of a beam is indicated by dynamic signaling

[0079] The start time can be indicated via a start slot and / or a start symbol. The BS sends beam information, a start slot index Sslot, and / or a start symbol index Ssymbol to the NCR. The NCR starts the forwarding operation using the indicated beam (e.g., identified via the beam information) from symbol Ssymbol in slot Sslot. If slot Sslot uses slot-level granularity (e.g., slot 4 in embodiment 1), the indication of Ssymbol can be omitted.

[0080] In some embodiments, the duration can be implicitly determined by varying beam information. For example, the beam information can be indicated by the BS, and the NCR can use the indicated beam according to the start time together indicated. The NCR can maintain / retain or continue to use the indicated beam until a new start time corresponding to a new indication providing another beam information is received. For another example, if the start time of a beam is equal to a time offset and is omitted in the indication from the BS, the NCR can continue to use the indicated beam until a time offset corresponding to a new indication providing another beam information is received. For yet another example, if the time offset is zero, the time domain information can be omitted in the indication from the BS, and the NCR can continue to use the indicated beam until a new indication including another beam information is received.

[0081] Option 3: Applicable time of a beam is indicated by a bitmap

[0082] The applicable time can be indicated by a bitmap. The BS can send beam information and a bitmap indicating the applicable time of a beam to the NCR. For example, for the 5ms half frame shown, Figure 5 A slot-level bitmap with value “00001” can be indicated by the BS to the NCR. The value “1” can indicate that slot 4 can be the applicable time of the beam. The value “0” can indicate that slots 0~3 can not be applicable to the beam.

[0083] Implementation Example 3: Absolute length of slots / symbols

[0084] In some embodiments, the NCR can communicate with the BS using a C-link and can forward UL / DL signals using an F-link. The carriers used by the C-link and the F-link can be different. For example, FR1 can be used on the C-link to guarantee robust control signaling reception and FR2 can be used on the F-link to provide sufficient bandwidth. In this case, the subcarrier spacing (SCS) used on the C-link and the F-link can be different, which can result in different symbol lengths.

[0085] Since the NCR forwards signals on the F-link without processing, the absolute length of a slot / symbol can be determined by the SCS used on the C-link. If the NCR supports multiple bands on the F-link, the absolute length of the slot / symbol length on each band can be different. To support this case, the following options can be used.

[0086] Option 1: Configure a scaling factor for each band (e.g., via radio resource control (RRC))

[0087] If the F-link and the C-link use different SCS, the BS can configure a scaling factor for each NCR band on the F-link. For example, the NCR can use FR1 on the C-link with a SCS of 15 kHz. The NCR can have 2 bands on the F-link. One of these bands can use a 30 kHz SCS. Another band can use a 60 kHz SCS. In this case, the BS can configure a list of scaling factors [2, 4] to the NCR. The NCR can determine the absolute length of a slot / symbol used on the corresponding band on the F-link as Tsymbol_F = Tsymbol_c / scaling factor.

[0088] Option 2: Dynamically indicate a scaling factor for each band (e.g., via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) and / or downlink control information (DCI))

[0089] If the F-link and the C-link use different SCS, the BS can indicate a scaling factor for one of the NCR bands on the F-link. For example, the NCR can use FR1 on the C-link with a SCS of 15 kHz. The NCR can have 2 bands on the F-link. The BS can indicate band index 1 and scaling factor 2 together with beam information. In this case, the NCR can determine the absolute length of a slot / symbol used on band 1 on the F-link as Tsymbol_F = Tsymbol_c / scaling factor.

[0090] Implementation Example 4: Signaling for time domain information

[0091] The BS can use various signaling in the resource indication to balance signaling cost and indication efficiency. For example, UE-dedicated channels can use semi-static resources (e.g., Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service) or dynamically scheduled resources for transmission. For semi-static resource indication, RRC configuration can be considered. For dynamically scheduled resource indication, MAC CE and / or DCI can be more efficient / timely. To support different signaling methods, one or more of the following options can be used.

[0092] Option 1: Radio Resource Control (RRC) only, Medium Access Control Control Element (MAC CE) only, or Downlink Control Information (DCI) only

[0093] The time domain information (e.g., indication of time domain resources) can be, for example, a new information element (IE) in RRC configuration corresponding to the beam information.

[0094] The time domain granularity can be a bit flag. For example, a flag with value “1” can indicate that symbol-level granularity can be used for the time domain information. A flag with value “0” can indicate that slot-level granularity can be used for the time domain information.

[0095] The time offset can be configured as described in Implementation Example 2. The start time can be configured as described in Implementation Example 2. The end time can be configured as described in Implementation Example 2. The duration can be configured as described in Implementation Example 2. The duration can be implicitly determined by reception of a new beam indication (e.g., via RRC reconfiguration). The time period of the duration can not be shorter than the duration. The corresponding beam can be used periodically within the duration according to the time period of the duration. In some implementations, the duration can be indefinite / uncertain. In this case, the time period of the duration can be omitted. The time domain information configuration can remain unchanged, or continue to be used by the corresponding beam, until a new configuration is received (e.g., via RRC, MAC CE, or DCI).

[0096] Option 2: RRC + MAC CE, RRC + DCI, or MAC CE + DCI

[0097] A list of time domain information can be included in the RRC / MAC CE corresponding to the beam information. Each element of the list can be time domain information, which can be determined using the methods in Option 1 of Implementation Example 4. The BS can indicate, via a MAC CE / DCI message to the NCR, the time domain information selected from the configured list of time domain information indication, and the beam information.

[0098] Option 3: RRC + MAC CE + DCI

[0099] A list of time-domain information can be included in the RRC configuration corresponding to the beam information. Each element of the list can be time-domain information, which can be determined using the method in Option 1 of Implementation Example 4. The BS can indicate to the NCR via a MAC CE message which subset (e.g., one or more) of the time-domain information that can include the configured list of time-domain information. The BS can indicate the beam information and one of the time-domain information in the subset via a downlink control information (DCI) message.

[0100] Implementation Example 5: Association of Beam Information and Time-Domain Information

[0101] The BS can configure a list of beam information and a list of time-domain information to the NCR. The BS can indicate to the NCR via RRC / MAC CE / DCI message an association between the beam information and the time-domain information. The association can refer to (1) via the same signaling (e.g., beam information) for beam indication or (2) with a defined mapping relationship. For example, the BS can indicate a 1-to-N (where N > 1) mapping between the beam information and the time-domain information. For another example, if the NCR supports simultaneous communication with multiple beams, the BS can indicate an N-to-1 (where N > 1) mapping between the beam information and the time-domain information. It should be appreciated that one or more features from the above-described embodiments are not exclusive to a particular implementation example, but can be combined in any manner (e.g., in any priority and / or order, simultaneously or otherwise).

[0102] Figure 6 A flow diagram illustrating a method 900 for resource indication is shown. The method 600 can be implemented using any one or more of the components and devices described in detail herein in connection with Figures 1-2 In summary, in some embodiments, the method 600 can be performed by a network node. Depending on the embodiment, more, fewer, or different operations can be performed in the method 600. At least one aspect of the operations relates to a system, method, apparatus, or computer readable medium.

[0103] A network node (e.g., a network control relay (NCR)) can receive, from a wireless communication node, at least one of (i) beam information and (ii) time-domain information (e.g., time resource information for applying a beam). The time-domain information can be used to indicate a time interval in which the beam information is to be applied by the network node. In some embodiments, the network node is to use or operate, in accordance with the beam information and the time-domain information, one of: a first control link from the wireless communication node to the network node; a second control link from the network node to the wireless communication node; a first forwarding link from the wireless communication node to the network node; a second forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication node; a third forwarding link from the network node to a wireless communication device; or a fourth forwarding link from the wireless communication device to the network node.

[0104] In some embodiments, the beam information can comprise at least one of: an index (e.g., identifier) of the beam, or an index of a source reference signal corresponding to (or used with) the beam. The time domain information can comprise at least one of: an applicable time defined by a plurality of parameters, a time offset, or a time domain granularity. The applicable time can be defined by at least one of: a start time, a start time and a duration (e.g., a valid / applicable duration of the beam or the beam information), a start time and an end time, a start and length indicator value (SLIV) representing the start time and the duration, or a bitmap corresponding to a plurality of time intervals, where each bit value of the bitmap can indicate whether the beam information can be applied at a corresponding time interval of the plurality of time intervals.

[0105] In some embodiments, the duration can comprise at least one of: a first value indicating a number of slots (e.g., Lslot), or a second value indicating a number of symbols (e.g., Lsymbol). The time offset can comprise at least one of: a slot offset for indicating an offset of a plurality of slots from a defined slot, or a symbol offset for indicating an offset of a plurality of symbols from a defined symbol. The time domain granularity can comprise at least one of: a flag indicating whether a symbol level granularity or a slot level granularity is used for at least one of the applicable time or the time offset, or a bitmap of bit values for a plurality of slots, where each bit value of the bitmap indicates, in a corresponding slot of the plurality of slots, whether a symbol level granularity or a slot level granularity is used for at least one of the applicable time or the time offset.

[0106] In some embodiments, the beam information is to be applied at a time when the network node receives the beam information. The beam information is to be applied at a time offset after a time when the network node receives the beam information. The beam information can be applied / maintained / used until another beam information is received by the network node.

[0107] In some embodiments, the network node can receive (e.g., RRC message) or an indication (e.g., DCI message) of an absolute length of a symbol or a slot of a frequency band of at least one of a plurality of forwarding links from a wireless communication node (e.g., BS). The configuration or indication can comprise a scaling factor for the frequency band, which can be relative to a subcarrier spacing (SCS) of a control link between the network node and the wireless communication node. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message. The network can receive the time domain information from the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI).

[0108] In some embodiments, the time domain information can further include a periodicity of a duration (e.g., a period of the valid duration). The network node can receive the plurality of time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network node can receive the time domain information from the plurality of time domain information to be applied via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message from the wireless communication node. The network node can receive a set of time domain information from the plurality of time domain information via a medium access control control element (MAC CE) message from the wireless communication node. The set can be a subset of the plurality of time domain information. The network node can receive (an identification of) the time domain information from the set to be applied via a downlink control information (DCI) message from the wireless communication node.

[0109] In some embodiments, the network node can receive a plurality (e.g., list / set) of time domain information from the wireless communication node via a radio resource control (RRC) message. The network node can receive (an identification of) the time domain information from the plurality of time domain information to be applied via a downlink control information (DCI) message from the wireless communication node. The time domain information can be associated with beam information.

[0110] While various embodiments of the present solution have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not in limitation. Likewise, the various figures can depict example architectures or configurations, which can be provided as examples in order to enable those with ordinary skill in the art to understand the example features and functions of the present solution. However, it should be understood that the present solution is not limited to the example architectures or configurations illustrated, but can be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Additionally, it is contemplated that one or more features of one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of another embodiment. Accordingly, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described illustrative embodiments.

[0111] It should also be understood that any reference to an element in the singular has no intention of limitation to a single element unless explicitly so defined. For example, the terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise. It should also be understood that there is no intention, with respect to the use of the terms "comprising," "including," "containing," or "having" and variations thereof, to limit the scope of the solution to only the recited components or steps unless explicitly stated. Furthermore, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used to distinguish only, and do not limit the scope of the solution to only the recited number of elements or steps.

[0112] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, in time-honored fashion, the disclosure herein can be embodied in a variety of alternative forms; consequently, the disclosure should not be construed as limited to the examples presented. In addition, any combination of the elements, going beyond those not specifically described herein, is contemplated to be within the scope of the disclosure.

[0113] Those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that any of the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, processors, means, circuits, methods and functions described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented by electronic hardware (e.g., a number of logic

[0114] Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, devices, components and circuits described herein can be implemented within or performed by an integrated circuit (IC), which can include a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, or a combination of these. The logical blocks, modules, and circuits can further include antennas and / or transceivers to communicate with various components within a network or within a device. The general purpose processor can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor can be any conventional processor, controller, or state machine. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0115] If implemented in software, the functions can be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Therefore, the steps of a method or algorithm disclosed herein can be implemented as software stored on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program or code from one place to another. Storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact discs (CD), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVD), and Blu-Ray® discs, as well as half- height optical cartridges available under the trade name MiniDisc®.

[0116] In this document, the term "module" as used herein, refers to software, firmware, hardware, and any combination of these elements that is used to perform the associated functions described herein. Furthermore, the various modules described herein can be comprised of programming means for implementing the associated functions with the various operating systems or platforms. For example, a given module can be a routine that is called by another routine or from another module. As will be evident to those skilled in the art, the

[0117] Moreover, memory or other storage, as well as communication components can be employed in embodiments of the solution. It will be appreciated that, for clarity, purposes the foregoing description has described embodiments of the solution with reference to different functional elements and processors. However, it will be apparent that any suitable distribution of functionality between different functional elements, processing logic elements or domains can be used without detracting from the solution. For example, functionality illustrated to be performed by separate processing logic elements or controllers can be performed by the same processing logic element or controller. Hence, references to specific functional elements are only to be seen as references to the means for providing the described functionality rather than indicative of a strict logical or physical structure or organization.

[0118] Various modifications to the embodiments described in this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein and made apparent to others skilled in the art by the teachings herein.

Claims

1. A method for communication, comprising: The network node receives beam information and time domain information from the wireless communication node. The time-domain information is associated with the beam information via a one-to-one mapping relationship. The time-domain information is used to indicate a time interval during which the beam information will be applied by the network node. The time-domain information indicates the start time and duration. The start time indicates the start time slot and the start symbol. The duration indicator symbol is the number of symbols, and Each of the aforementioned symbols has an absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the network node uses the following items based on the beam information and the time-domain information: A first forwarding link from the wireless communication node to the network node; A second forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication node; A third forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication device; or A fourth forwarding link from the wireless communication device to the network node.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the beam information includes a beam index.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the time-domain information indicates the applicable time defined by a plurality of parameters.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the applicable time has: The start time corresponds to at least one of the start time slot or the start symbol, and The duration.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the duration includes a value for the number of indicator symbols.

7. The method of claim 4, wherein the applicable time corresponds to a symbol having the determined absolute length, the absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

8. The method according to claim 1, comprising: The network node receives the time-domain information and the beam information from the wireless communication node via downlink control information (DCI).

9. The method according to claim 1, comprising: The network node receives multiple time-domain information messages from the wireless communication node via Radio Resource Control (RRC) messages, and The network node receives an instruction from the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI) message regarding the selection of the time domain information to be applied from the plurality of time domain information.

10. A wireless communication node, comprising: At least one processor is configured as follows: Beam information and time-domain information are transmitted to the wireless network node via the transmitter. The time-domain information is associated with the beam information via a one-to-one mapping relationship. The time-domain information is used to indicate a time interval during which the beam information will be applied by the network node. The time-domain information indicates the start time and duration. The start time indicates the start time slot and the start symbol. The duration indicator symbol is the number of symbols, and Each of the aforementioned symbols has an absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

11. A network node, comprising: At least one processor is configured as follows: Beam information and time-domain information are received from the wireless communication node via the receiver. The time-domain information is associated with the beam information via a one-to-one mapping relationship. The time-domain information is used to indicate a time interval during which the beam information will be applied by the network node. The time-domain information indicates the start time and duration. The start time indicates the start time slot and the start symbol. The duration indicator symbol is the number of symbols, and Each of the aforementioned symbols has an absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

12. The network node of claim 11, wherein the network node uses the following items based on the beam information and the time-domain information: A first forwarding link from the wireless communication node to the network node; A second forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication node; A third forwarding link from the network node to the wireless communication device; or A fourth forwarding link from the wireless communication device to the network node.

13. The network node of claim 11, wherein the beam information includes a beam index.

14. The network node of claim 11, wherein the time-domain information indicates an applicable time defined by a plurality of parameters.

15. The network node of claim 14, wherein the applicable time has: The start time corresponds to at least one of the start time slot or the start symbol, and The duration.

16. The network node of claim 15, wherein the duration includes a value for the number of indicator symbols.

17. The network node of claim 14, wherein the applicable time corresponds to a symbol having the determined absolute length, the absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

18. The network node of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is configured to: The network node transmits the time-domain information and the beam information to the wireless communication node via downlink control information (DCI).

19. The network node of claim 11, wherein the at least one processor is configured to: The transmitter sends multiple time-domain information messages to the wireless communication node via Radio Resource Control (RRC) messages, and The transmitter sends an instruction to the wireless communication node via a downlink control information (DCI) message regarding the selection of the time domain information to be applied from the plurality of time domain information.

20. A method for communication, comprising: The wireless communication node sends beam information and time-domain information to the wireless network node. The time-domain information is associated with the beam information via a one-to-one mapping relationship. The time-domain information is used to indicate a time interval during which the beam information will be applied by the network node. The time-domain information indicates the start time and duration. The start time indicates the start time slot and the start symbol. The duration indicator symbol is the number of symbols, and Each of the aforementioned symbols has an absolute length corresponding to the subcarrier spacing SCS.

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