Beamforming for backscatter radios

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus configured for wireless communication. The apparatus may include any wireless communication device configured for radio frequency identification (RFID) communication. In some examples, the apparatus includes: a memory including instructions; and one or more processors, the one or more processors configured to execute the instructions. In some examples, the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to obtain a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. In some examples, the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to output, in response to the first signal, a first backscatter signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. non-provisional patent application No. 17 / 931,886, entitled “BEAMFORMING FOR BACKSCATTER RADIO,” filed on September 13, 2022, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to communication systems and, more particularly, to beamforming for backscatter radio.

[0004] introduction

[0005] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide a variety of telecommunication services, such as telephony, video, data, messaging, and broadcast. Typical wireless communication systems may employ multiple access technologies capable of supporting communication with multiple users by sharing available system resources. Examples of such multiple access technologies include code division multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems, orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems, single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) systems, and time division synchronous code division multiple access (TD-SCDMA) systems.

[0006] These multiple access technologies have been adopted in various telecommunication standards to provide a common protocol that enables different wireless devices to communicate at a city, country, region, or even global level. An example telecommunication standard is 5G New Radio (NR). 5G NR is part of the continued mobile broadband evolution promulgated by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to meet new requirements associated with latency, reliability, security, scalability (e.g., with the Internet of Things (IoT)) and other requirements. 5G NR includes services associated with enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC). Some aspects of 5G NR may be based on the 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard. Further improvements to 5G NR technology are needed. In addition, these improvements may also be applicable to other multiple access technologies and telecommunication standards that employ these technologies. Summary of the invention

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of these aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is neither intended to identify key or important elements of all aspects, nor to describe the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description presented later.

[0008] Certain aspects relate to an apparatus configured for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the apparatus to obtain a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. In some examples, the apparatus is further configured to output a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus.

[0009] Certain aspects relate to a method for wireless communication by an apparatus. In some examples, the method includes obtaining a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. In some examples, the method includes outputting a first backscatter signal for transmission to the RFID device in response to the first signal, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus.

[0010] Certain aspects relate to wireless communications by an apparatus. In some examples, the apparatus includes components for obtaining a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. In some examples, the apparatus includes components for outputting a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus.

[0011] Certain aspects relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform a method. In some examples, the method includes obtaining a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. In some examples, the method includes outputting a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus.

[0012] Certain aspects relate to a frequency identifier (RFID) tag, the frequency identifier (RFID) tag comprising: a transceiver; a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the RFID tag to receive a first signal from an RFID device via the transceiver. In some examples, the device is further configured to send a first backscatter signal to the RFID device via the transceiver and in response to the first signal, the backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID tag.

[0013] Certain aspects relate to a method of wirelessly communicating via a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag. In some examples, the method includes receiving a first signal from an RFID device via the transceiver. In some examples, the method includes sending a first backscattered signal to the RFID device via the transceiver and in response to the first signal, the backscattered signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID tag.

[0014] Certain aspects relate to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag. In some examples, the tag includes components for receiving a first signal from an RFID device via the transceiver. In some examples, the tag includes components for sending a first backscattered signal to the RFID device via the transceiver and in response to the first signal, the backscattered signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID tag.

[0015] Certain aspects relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag, cause the tag to perform a method. In some examples, the method includes receiving a first signal from an RFID device via the transceiver. In some examples, the method includes sending a first backscattered signal to the RFID device via the transceiver and in response to the first signal, the backscattered signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID tag.

[0016] Certain aspects relate to an apparatus configured for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the apparatus to output a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal configured to request beamforming capabilities of the RFID device. In some examples, the apparatus is further configured to obtain a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate the beamforming capabilities.

[0017] Certain aspects relate to a method for wireless communication by an apparatus. In certain aspects, the method includes outputting a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal configured to request a beamforming capability of the RFID device. In some examples, the method includes obtaining a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate the beamforming capability.

[0018] Certain aspects relate to an apparatus. In certain aspects, the apparatus includes means for outputting a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal configured to request a beamforming capability of the RFID device. In some examples, the apparatus includes means for obtaining a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate the beamforming capability.

[0019] Certain aspects relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform a method. In certain aspects, the method includes outputting a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal configured to request beamforming capabilities of the RFID device. In some examples, the method includes obtaining a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate the beamforming capabilities.

[0020] To achieve the foregoing and related ends, one or more aspects include the features fully described below and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the accompanying drawings set forth in detail some illustrative features of one or more aspects. However, these features are merely indicative of some of the various ways in which the principles of the various aspects may be employed, and this specification is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system and an access network.

[0022] Figure 2A is a diagram illustrating an example of a first frame according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2B is a diagram illustrating an example of DL channels within a subframe according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2C is a diagram illustrating an example of a second frame according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2D is a diagram illustrating an example of UL channels within a subframe according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a base station and a user equipment (UE) in an access network.

[0027] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example decomposed base station architecture.

[0028] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example radio frequency identifier (RFID) reader that communicates with an RFID tag.

[0029] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating example communication signals between an RFID device and a tag.

[0030] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C is a block diagram illustrating an example antenna array for an RFID tag.

[0031] Figure 8 is a call flow diagram illustrating example communications between an RFID device and a tag.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0033] Fig.10 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0034] Fig.11 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0035] Fig.12 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0036] Fig.13 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0037] Fig.14 is a diagram illustrating another example of a hardware implementation for another example apparatus.

[0038] Fig.15 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication.

[0039] Fig.16 is a diagram illustrating another example of a hardware implementation for another example apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The specific embodiments described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings are intended as descriptions of various configurations and are not intended to represent the only configurations with which the concepts described herein can be practiced. In order to provide a thorough understanding of the various concepts, the specific embodiments include specific details. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid blurring these concepts.

[0041] Radio frequency identifier (RFID) is a rapidly developing technology that impacts many industries due to its economic potential for inventory / asset management inside and outside warehouses, the Internet of Things (IoT), sustainable sensor networks in factories and / or agriculture, and smart homes. An RFID device may include a transponder or tag that is configured to transmit a signal carrying information based on another signal (e.g., a continuous wave (CW) signal) received from another RFID device. Certain RFID devices can operate without batteries with low operating expenditure (OPEX), low maintenance, and long life expectancy. For example, a passive RFID device (e.g., a tag) can harvest energy in the air and power the transmitting and receiving circuits of the passive device, where the transmitted signal is typically backscatter modulated. There are also semi-passive RFID devices or active RFID devices with batteries, which are generally more expensive but provide additional capabilities. It should be noted that the continuous wave signal can include commands.

[0042] Energy transfer or RF power harvesting can be performed between two or more devices. For example, an RFID reader can send a CW signal to an RFID tag, and the tag can use the CW signal to power its own integrated circuits (e.g., power harvesting circuits and RF front ends). The power of the CW signal can be equal to or greater than -20dBm (e.g., -10dBm may be required) to "turn on" the tag circuit.

[0043] Tags with batteries (e.g., energy storage devices such as capacitors or batteries) can increase the reliability of RFID communications between tags and readers and increase the sensitivity of power harvesting circuits. Such tags may be referred to herein as "active tags" and may include transceiver circuitry, a power source, and a relatively wider communication range and higher complexity than semi-passive and passive tags. "Semi-passive tags" may include a transponder and a power source, but may be limited to sending backscatter signaling for communicating with a reader. "Passive tags" may include a transponder, but typically do not have a power source.

[0044] RFID generally supports only short-range communication (e.g., less than 10 meters for passive IoT due to, for example, insufficient link budget issues). In some examples, the power link (or DL, reader to tag) is the bottleneck link because the power harvesting circuit of the tag generally requires high input power (e.g., -13dBm) in order to switch on and generate a backscattered signal in response to the power link. In some cases, an input power of -20dBm or lower cannot ensure satisfactory cost and conversion efficiency in RFID communication. Reflections through multipath effects can also cause fading of the energy signal and degrade its range.

[0045] Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and techniques for achieving high throughput and long-range backscatter-based communications in millimeter wave and non-millimeter wave frequency ranges. That is, in some examples, both the RFID reader and the tag can be configured for millimeter wave CW signal and backscatter signal transmission and reception. In some examples, the RFID reader can send a beamformed continuous wave (CW) to the tag. The tag can absorb or reflect the signal (e.g., via on-off keying (OOK) or by applying different amplitudes and phase shifts to the received CW signal to modulate the QAM symbol). The reader can decode the received reflected signal or backscatter signal transmitted by the tag. In order to achieve improved throughput and long-range communication between the reader and the tag, the reflected signal or backscatter signal can be beamformed. In some examples, the beamforming can be reverse directional passive beamforming for backscatter signals with or without polarization conversion. The reverse directional beam involves a beam direction that is substantially similar to the beam direction of the previously received signal. For example, if the reader CW signal is a beam having a first direction, a backscatter signal based on the CW signal may be sent via the beam in the first direction. Relative to an omnidirectional backscatter signal, the tag may require less power for sending the backscatter signal via the beam.

[0046] Several aspects of telecommunication systems will now be presented with reference to various apparatus and methods. These apparatus and methods will be described in the following detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, components, circuits, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as "elements"). These elements may be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether these elements are implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0047] As an example, an element or any part of an element or any combination of elements can be implemented as a "processing system" including one or more processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), central processing units (CPUs), application processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, systems on chip (SoCs), baseband processors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gate logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform various functionalities described throughout the present disclosure. One or more processors in a processing system can execute software. Whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or other names, software should be broadly interpreted as meaning instructions, instruction sets, codes, code segments, program codes, programs, subroutines, software components, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, threads of execution, processes, functions, etc.

[0048] Therefore, in one or more example embodiments, the described functions can be implemented with hardware, software or any combination thereof. If implemented with software, the functions can be stored or encoded on a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or codes. Computer-readable media include computer storage media. Storage media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media can include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), an optical disk storage device, a magnetic disk storage device, other magnetic storage devices, a combination of computer-readable media of the above type, or any other medium that can be used to store computer executable code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer.

[0049] Figure 1 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system and access network 100. The wireless communication system (also referred to as a wireless wide area network (WWAN)) includes a base station 102, a user equipment (UE) 104, an evolved packet core (EPC) 160, and another core network 190 (e.g., a 5G core (5GC)). The base station 102 may include a macro cell (a high-power cellular base station) and / or a small cell (a low-power cellular base station). A macro cell includes a base station. A small cell includes a femto cell, a pico cell, and a micro cell.

[0050] The base station 102 configured for 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) (collectively referred to as Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN)) can interface with the EPC 160 via a first backhaul link 132 (e.g., an S1 interface). The base station 102 configured for 5G New Radio (NR) (collectively referred to as Next Generation RAN (NG-RAN)) can interface with the core network 190 via a second backhaul link 184. Among other functions, the base station 102 can also perform one or more of the following functions: delivery of user data, radio channel encryption and decryption, integrity protection, header compression, mobility control functions (e.g., handover, dual connectivity), inter-cell interference coordination, connection establishment and release, load balancing, distribution of non-access stratum (NAS) messages, NAS node selection, synchronization, radio access network (RAN) sharing, multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS), subscriber and equipment tracking, RAN information management (RIM), paging, positioning, and delivery of warning messages. The base stations 102 may communicate with each other directly or indirectly (eg, via the EPC 160 or the core network 190) via the third backhaul link 134 (eg, an X2 interface). The first backhaul link 132, the second backhaul link 184, and the third backhaul link 134 may be wired or wireless.

[0051] Base station 102 can communicate wirelessly with UE 104. Each of base stations 102 can provide communication coverage for a corresponding geographic coverage area 110. There may be overlapping geographic coverage areas 110. For example, a small cell 102' may have a coverage area 110' that overlaps with the coverage area 110 of one or more macro base stations 102. A network including both small cells and macro cells may be referred to as a heterogeneous network. A heterogeneous network may also include a home evolved Node B (eNB) (HeNB), which may provide services to a restricted group referred to as a closed subscriber group (CSG). A communication link 120 between base station 102 and UE 104 may include an uplink (UL) (also referred to as a reverse link) transmission from UE 104 to base station 102 and / or a downlink (DL) (also referred to as a forward link) transmission from base station 102 to UE 104. The communication link 120 may use multiple input multiple output (MIMO) antenna technology, including spatial multiplexing, beamforming and / or transmit diversity. The communication link may be through one or more carriers. For each carrier allocated in the carrier aggregation for up to a total of up to Yx MHz (x component carriers) for transmission in each direction, the base station 102 / UE 104 can use a spectrum with a bandwidth of up to Y megahertz (MHz) (e.g., 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 15 MHz, 20 MHz, 100 MHz, 400 MHz, etc.). The carriers may or may not be adjacent to each other. The allocation of carriers may be asymmetric with respect to DL and UL (e.g., more or fewer carriers may be allocated for DL ​​compared to UL). The component carrier may include a primary component carrier and one or more secondary component carriers. The primary component carrier may be referred to as a primary cell (PCell) and the secondary component carrier may be referred to as a secondary cell (SCell).

[0052] Some UEs 104 may communicate with each other using a device-to-device (D2D) communication link 158. The D2D communication link 158 may use DL / UL WWAN spectrum. The D2D communication link 158 may use one or more sidelink channels, such as a physical sidelink broadcast channel (PSBCH), a physical sidelink discovery channel (PSDCH), a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH), and a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH). D2D communication may be performed by a variety of wireless D2D communication systems, such as, for example, WiMedia, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard, LTE, or NR.

[0053] The wireless communication system may also include a Wi-Fi access point (AP) 150 that communicates with a Wi-Fi station (STA) 152 via a communication link 154 in, for example, a 5 gigahertz (GHz) unlicensed spectrum. When communicating in the unlicensed spectrum, the STA 152 / AP 150 may perform a clear channel assessment (CCA) to determine whether a channel is available prior to communication.

[0054] The small cell 102' may operate in licensed and / or unlicensed spectrum. When operating in an unlicensed spectrum, the small cell 102' may employ NR and use the same unlicensed spectrum (e.g., 5 GHz, etc.) as used by the Wi-Fi AP 150. The small cell 102' employing NR in the unlicensed spectrum may improve the coverage of the access network and / or increase the capacity of the access network.

[0055] The electromagnetic spectrum is typically subdivided into various categories, bands, channels, etc. based on frequency / wavelength. In 5GNR, two initial operating bands have been identified as frequency range designations FR1 (410 MHz–7.125 GHz) and FR2 (24.25 GHz–52.6 GHz). Frequencies between FR1 and FR2 are typically referred to as mid-band frequencies. Although a portion of FR1 is greater than 6 GHz, FR1 is typically (interchangeably) referred to as the “below 6 GHz” band in various documents and articles. A similar naming issue sometimes occurs with respect to FR2, which is typically (interchangeably) referred to as the “millimeter wave” band in documents and articles, despite being different from the extremely high frequency (EHF) band (30 GHz–300 GHz) identified as the “millimeter wave” band by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

[0056] In view of the above aspects, unless otherwise specifically stated, it should be understood that if the term "below 6 GHz" or the like is used herein, it can broadly represent frequencies that can be less than 6 GHz, can be within FR1, or can include mid-band frequencies. In addition, unless otherwise specifically stated, it should be understood that if the term "millimeter wave" or the like is used herein, it can broadly represent frequencies that can include mid-band frequencies, can be within FR2, or can be within the EHF band.

[0057] The base station 102, whether a small cell 102' or a large cell (e.g., a macro base station), may include and / or be referred to as an eNB, a gNodeB (gNB), or another type of base station. Some base stations, such as gNB 180, may operate in the traditional sub-6 GHz spectrum, in millimeter wave frequencies, and / or near millimeter wave frequencies to communicate with the UE 104. When the gNB 180 operates in millimeter wave or near millimeter wave frequencies, the gNB 180 may be referred to as a millimeter wave base station. The millimeter wave base station 180 may utilize beamforming 182 with the UE 104 to compensate for path loss and short range. The base station 180 and the UE 104 may each include multiple antennas, such as antenna elements, antenna panels, and / or antenna arrays, to facilitate beamforming.

[0058] The base station 180 may transmit a beamformed signal in one or more transmit directions 182' to the UE 104. The UE 104 may receive the beamformed signal from the base station 180 in one or more receive directions 182". The UE 104 may also transmit a beamformed signal in one or more transmit directions to the base station 180. The base station 180 may receive the beamformed signal in one or more receive directions from the UE 104. The base station 180 / UE 104 may perform beam training to determine the best receive direction and transmit direction for each of the base station 180 / UE 104. The transmit direction and receive direction of the base station 180 may be the same or may be different. The transmit direction and receive direction of the UE 104 may be the same or may be different.

[0059] The EPC 160 may include a mobility management entity (MME) 162, other MMEs 164, a serving gateway 166, an MBMS gateway 168, a broadcast multicast service center (BM-SC) 170, and a packet data network (PDN) gateway 172. The MME 162 may communicate with a home subscriber server (HSS) 174. The MME 162 is a control node that handles signaling between the UE 104 and the EPC 160. Typically, the MME 162 provides bearer and connection management. All user Internet Protocol (IP) packets are delivered through the serving gateway 166, which itself is connected to the PDN gateway 172. The PDN gateway 172 provides UE IP address allocation and other functions. The PDN gateway 172 and the BM-SC 170 are connected to IP services 176. The IP services 176 may include the Internet, an intranet, an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS), a PS streaming service, and / or other IP services. The BM-SC 170 may provide functions for MBMS user service configuration and delivery. BM-SC 170 may serve as an entry point for content provider MBMS delivery, may be used to authorize and initiate MBMS bearer services in a public land mobile network (PLMN), and may be used to schedule MBMS delivery. MBMS Gateway 168 may be used to distribute MBMS services to base stations 102 belonging to a multicast broadcast single frequency network (MBSFN) area of ​​a broadcast specific service, and may be responsible for session management (start / stop) and for collecting eMBMS related billing information.

[0060] The core network 190 may include an access and mobility management function (AMF) 192, other AMFs 193, a session management function (SMF) 194, and a user plane function (UPF) 195. The AMF 192 may communicate with a unified data management (UDM) 196. The AMF 192 is a control node that handles signaling between the UE 104 and the core network 190. Typically, the AMF 192 provides quality of service (QoS) flows and session management. All user IP packets are delivered through the UPF 195. The UPF 195 provides UE IP address allocation and other functions. The UPF 195 is connected to an IP service 197. The IP service 197 may include the Internet, an intranet, an IMS, a packet switching (PS) streaming media service, and / or other IP services.

[0061] Base stations may include and / or be referred to as gNBs, Node Bs, eNBs, access points, base transceivers, radio base stations, radio transceivers, transceiver functions, basic service sets (BSSs), extended service sets (ESSs), transmit receive points (TRPs), or some other suitable terminology. Base stations 102 provide access points to EPC 160 or core network 190 for UEs 104. Examples of UEs 104 include cellular phones, smart phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs), satellite radios, global positioning systems, multimedia devices, video devices, digital audio players (e.g., MP3 players), cameras, game consoles, tablet devices, smart devices, wearable devices, vehicles, electric meters, gas pumps, large or small kitchen appliances, healthcare devices, implants, sensors / actuators, displays, or any other similarly functional device. Some of the UEs 104 may be referred to as IoT devices (e.g., parking meters, gas pumps, toasters, vehicles, heart monitors, etc.). UE 104 may also be referred to as a station, a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communication device, a remote device, a mobile subscriber station, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, or some other suitable terminology.

[0062] Refer again Figure 1 , in some aspects, UE 104 and / or base station 102 / 180 may be configured for RFID communication. For example, each of UE 104 and / or base station 102 / 180 may be configured with a beamforming module 198, which is configured to obtain a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, and output a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability of the device. In some examples, the beamforming module 198 may also be configured to output a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal being configured to request the beamforming capability of the RFID device; and obtain a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability.

[0063] Figure 2A FIG200 is a diagram illustrating an example of a first subframe within a 5G NR frame structure. Figure 2B is a diagram 230 illustrating an example of DL channels within a 5G NR subframe. Figure 2C 250 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second subframe within a 5G NR frame structure. Figure 2DFIG280 is a diagram illustrating an example of an UL channel within a 5G NR subframe. The 5G NR frame structure may be frequency division duplex (FDD) (wherein for a particular set of subcarriers (carrier system bandwidth), a subframe within the subcarrier set is dedicated to either DL or UL), or may be time division duplex (TDD) (wherein for a particular set of subcarriers (carrier system bandwidth), a subframe within the subcarrier set is dedicated to both DL and UL). Figure 2A , Figure 2C In the example provided, the 5G NR frame structure is assumed to be TDD, where subframe 4 is configured with slot format 28 (most of which are DL), where D is DL, U is UL, and F is flexible between DL / UL, and subframe 3 is configured with slot format 34 (most of which are UL). Although subframes 3 and 4 are shown as having slot formats 34 and 28, respectively, any particular subframe can be configured with any of the various available slot formats 0-61. Slot formats 0 and 1 are DL and UL, respectively. Other slot formats 2-61 include a mix of DL, UL and flexible symbols. The slot format is configured for the UE by a received slot format indicator (SFI) (dynamically configured by DL control information (DCI) or semi-statically / statically configured by radio resource control (RRC) signaling). Note that the following description also applies to the 5G NR frame structure as TDD.

[0064] Other wireless communication technologies may have different frame structures and / or different channels. For example, a 10 millisecond (ms) frame may be divided into 10 equally sized subframes (1 ms). Each subframe may include one or more time slots. A subframe may also include a microslot, which may include 7, 4, or 2 symbols. Each time slot may include 7 or 14 symbols, depending on the time slot configuration. For time slot configuration 0, each time slot may include 14 symbols, and for time slot configuration 1, each time slot may include 7 symbols. The symbol on the DL may be a cyclic prefix (CP) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) (CP-OFDM) symbol. The symbol on the UL may be a CP-OFDM symbol (for high throughput scenarios) or a discrete Fourier transform (DFT) spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM) symbol (also known as a single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) symbol) (for power-constrained scenarios; limited to single-stream transmission). The number of time slots in a subframe is based on the time slot configuration and parameter set (numerology). For slot configuration 0, different parameter sets μ0 to 4 allow 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 slots per subframe, respectively. For slot configuration 1, different parameter sets 0 to 2 allow 2, 4, and 8 slots per subframe, respectively. Accordingly, for slot configuration 0 and parameter set μ, there are 14 symbols per slot and 2 per subframe. μtime slots. The subcarrier spacing and symbol length / duration are functions of the parameter set. The subcarrier spacing can be equal to 2 μ *15 kilohertz (kHz), where μ is parameter set 0 to 4. Therefore, the subcarrier spacing for parameter set μ=0 is 15 kHz, and the subcarrier spacing for parameter set μ=4 is 240 kHz. The symbol length / duration is inversely related to the subcarrier spacing. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D An example is provided for slot configuration 0 with 14 symbols per slot and parameter set μ=2 with 4 slots per subframe. The slot duration is 0.25 ms, the subcarrier spacing is 60 kHz, and the symbol duration is approximately 16.67 μs. Within a frame set, there may be one or more different bandwidth parts (BWPs) that are frequency-division multiplexed (see Figure 2B ). Each BWP can have a specific set of parameters.

[0065] A resource grid may be used to represent a frame structure. Each slot includes a resource block (RB) (also referred to as a physical RB (PRB)) extending over 12 consecutive subcarriers. The resource grid is divided into a plurality of resource elements (REs). The number of bits carried by each RE depends on the modulation scheme.

[0066] like Figure 2A As illustrated, some of the REs carry reference (pilot) signals (RS) for the UE. The RS may include a demodulation RS (DM-RS) for channel estimation at the UE (indicated as R for a particular configuration). x , where 100x is the port number, but other DM-RS configurations are possible) and a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS). RS may also include a beam measurement RS (BRS), a beam refinement RS (BRRS), and a phase tracking RS (PT-RS).

[0067] Figure 2BExamples of various DL channels within a subframe of a frame are illustrated. The physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) carries DCI within one or more control channel elements (CCEs), each CCE including nine RE groups (REGs), each REG including four consecutive REs in an OFDM symbol. The PDCCH within a BWP may be referred to as a control resource set (CORESET). Additional BWPs may be located at higher and / or lower frequencies on the channel bandwidth. The primary synchronization signal (PSS) may be within symbol 2 of a specific subframe of a frame. The PSS is used by UE 104 to determine subframe / symbol timing and physical layer identity. The secondary synchronization signal (SSS) may be within symbol 4 of a specific subframe of a frame. The SSS is used by the UE to determine the physical layer cell identification group number and radio frame timing. Based on the physical layer identification and the physical layer cell identification group number, the UE may determine the physical cell identifier (PCI). Based on the PCI, the UE may determine the position of the aforementioned DM-RS. The physical broadcast channel (PBCH) carrying the master information block (MIB) can be logically grouped with the PSS and SSS to form a synchronization signal (SS) / PBCH block (also referred to as an SS block (SSB)). The MIB provides the system bandwidth and the number of RBs in the system frame number (SFN). The physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) carries user data, broadcast system information not sent over the PBCH (such as the system information block (SIB)), and paging messages.

[0068] like Figure 2C As illustrated, some of the REs carry DM-RS (indicated as R for a particular configuration, but other DM-RS configurations are possible) for channel estimation at the base station. The UE may send a DM-RS for a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) and a DM-RS for a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH). The PUSCH DM-RS may be sent in the first one or two symbols of the PUSCH. Depending on whether a short PUCCH or a long PUCCH is sent and depending on the specific PUCCH format used, the PUCCH DM-RS may be sent in different configurations. The UE may send a sounding reference signal (SRS). The SRS may be sent in the last symbol of a subframe. The SRS may have a comb structure, and the UE may send the SRS on one of the teeth of the comb. The SRS may be used by the base station for channel quality estimation to achieve frequency-dependent scheduling of the UL.

[0069] Figure 2DExamples of various UL channels within a subframe of a frame are illustrated. The PUCCH may be located at a position as indicated in one configuration. The PUCCH carries uplink control information (UCI), such as scheduling requests, channel quality indicator (CQI), precoding matrix indicator (PMI), rank indicator (RI), and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) acknowledgement (ACK) / negative acknowledgement (NACK) feedback. The PUSCH carries data and may additionally be used to carry a buffer status report (BSR), a power headroom report (PHR), and / or UCI.

[0070] Figure 3 3 is a block diagram of a base station 310 in an access network communicating with a UE 350. In the DL, IP packets from the EPC 160 may be provided to the controller / processor 375. The controller / processor 375 implements layer 3 and layer 2 functionality. Layer 3 includes a radio resource control (RRC) layer, and layer 2 includes a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer, a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, a radio link control (RLC) layer, and a medium access control (MAC) layer. The controller / processor 375 provides RRC layer functionality associated with broadcasting of system information (e.g., MIB, SIB), RRC connection control (e.g., RRC connection paging, RRC connection establishment, RRC connection modification, and RRC connection release), inter-radio access technology (RAT) mobility, and measurement configuration for UE measurement reporting; PDCP layer functionality associated with header compression / decompression, security (encryption, decryption, integrity protection, integrity verification), and handover support functions; RLC layer functionality associated with delivery of upper layer packet data units (PDUs), error correction through ARQ, concatenation, segmentation and reassembly of RLC service data units (SDUs), re-segmentation of RLC data PDUs, and reordering of RLC data PDUs; and MAC layer functionality associated with mapping between logical channels and transport channels, multiplexing of MAC SDUs onto transport blocks (TBs), demultiplexing of MAC SDUs from TBs, scheduling information reporting, error correction through HARQ, priority handling, and logical channel prioritization.

[0071] The transmit (TX) processor 316 and receive (RX) processor 370 implement layer 1 functionality associated with various signal processing functions. Layer 1 (which includes the physical (PHY) layer) may include error detection on the transport channel, forward error correction (FEC) decoding / decoding of the transport channel, interleaving, rate matching, mapping to the physical channel, modulation / demodulation of the physical channel, and MIMO antenna processing. The TX processor 316 processes the mapping to the signal constellation based on various modulation schemes (e.g., binary phase shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), M-order phase shift keying (M-PSK), M-order quadrature amplitude modulation (M-QAM)). The decoded and modulated symbols can then be divided into parallel streams. Subsequently, each stream can be mapped to an OFDM subcarrier, multiplexed with a reference signal (e.g., a pilot) in the time domain and / or frequency domain, and then combined using an inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) to produce a physical channel carrying a time domain OFDM symbol stream. The OFDM stream is spatially pre-decoded to generate multiple spatial streams. Channel estimates from a channel estimator 374 may be used to determine the coding and modulation schemes, as well as for spatial processing. Channel estimates may be derived based on a reference signal and / or channel condition feedback sent by the UE 350. Each spatial stream may then be provided to a different antenna 320 via a separate transmitter 318TX. Each transmitter 318TX may modulate an RF carrier with a corresponding spatial stream for transmission.

[0072] At the UE 350, each receiver 354RX receives a signal through its corresponding antenna 352. Each receiver 354RX recovers the information modulated onto the RF carrier and provides the information to a receive (RX) processor 356. The TX processor 368 and the RX processor 356 implement layer 1 functionality associated with various signal processing functions. The RX processor 356 can perform spatial processing on the information to recover any spatial stream destined for the UE 350. If multiple spatial streams are destined for the UE 350, they can be combined into a single OFDM symbol stream by the RX processor 356. The RX processor 356 then converts the OFDM symbol stream from the time domain to the frequency domain using a fast Fourier transform (FFT). The frequency domain signal includes a separate OFDM symbol stream for each subcarrier of the OFDM signal. The symbols on each subcarrier and the reference signal are recovered and demodulated by determining the signal constellation point most likely to be sent by the base station 310. These soft decisions can be based on channel estimates calculated by the channel estimator 358. The soft decisions are then decoded and deinterleaved to recover the data and control signals originally sent on the physical channel by the base station 310. The data and control signals are then provided to the controller / processor 359, which implements layer 3 and layer 2 functionality.

[0073] The controller / processor 359 may be associated with a memory 360 that stores program codes and data. The memory 360 may be referred to as a computer readable medium. In the UL, the controller / processor 359 provides demultiplexing between transport and logical channels, packet reassembly, decryption, header decompression, and control signal processing to recover IP packets from the EPC 160. The controller / processor 359 is also responsible for error detection using an ACK and / or NACK protocol to support HARQ operations.

[0074] Similar to the functions described in conjunction with DL transmissions performed by the base station 310, the controller / processor 359 provides RRC layer functionality associated with system information (e.g., MIB, SIB) acquisition, RRC connection, and measurement reporting; PDCP layer functionality associated with header compression / decompression and security (encryption, decryption, integrity protection, integrity verification); RLC layer functionality associated with delivery of upper layer PDUs, error correction through ARQ, concatenation, segmentation and reassembly of RLC SDUs, resegmentation of RLC data PDUs, and reordering of RLC data PDUs; and MAC layer functionality associated with mapping between logical channels and transport channels, multiplexing of MAC SDUs onto TBs, demultiplexing of MAC SDUs from TBs, scheduling information reporting, error correction through HARQ, priority handling, and logical channel prioritization.

[0075] The TX processor 368 may use channel estimates derived by the channel estimator 358 from a reference signal or feedback transmitted by the base station 310 to select appropriate coding and modulation schemes and to facilitate spatial processing. The spatial streams generated by the TX processor 368 may be provided to different antennas 352 via separate transmitters 354TX. Each transmitter 354TX may modulate an RF carrier with a corresponding spatial stream for transmission.

[0076] UL transmissions are processed at the base station 310 in a manner similar to that described in conjunction with the receiver functionality at the UE 350. Each receiver 318RX receives a signal through its respective antenna 320. Each receiver 318RX recovers information modulated onto an RF carrier and provides the information to a RX processor 370.

[0077] The controller / processor 375 may be associated with a memory 376 that stores program codes and data. The memory 376 may be referred to as a computer readable medium. In the UL, the controller / processor 375 provides demultiplexing between transport channels and logical channels, packet reassembly, decryption, header decompression, control signal processing to recover IP packets from the UE 350. The IP packets from the controller / processor 375 may be provided to the EPC 160. The controller / processor 375 is also responsible for error detection using ACK and / or NACK protocols to support HARQ operations.

[0078] Figure 4 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example disaggregated base station 400 architecture. The disaggregated base station 400 architecture may include one or more CUs 410 that may communicate directly with a core network 420 via a backhaul link, or indirectly with a core network 420 through one or more disaggregated base station units, such as a near real-time (RT) RIC 425 via an E2 link, or a non-RT RIC 415 associated with a service management and orchestration (SMO) framework 405, or both. The CU 410 may communicate with one or more DUs 430 via corresponding midhaul links, such as an F1 interface. The DU 430 may communicate with one or more RUs 440 via corresponding fronthaul links. The RU 440 may communicate with corresponding UEs 104 via one or more radio frequency (RF) access links. In some implementations, a UE 104 may be served simultaneously by multiple RUs 440.

[0079] Each of the units (i.e., CU 410, DU 430, RU 440, and near-RT RIC 425, non-RT RIC 415, and SMO framework 405) may include or be coupled to one or more interfaces configured to receive or send signals, data, or information (collectively referred to as signals) via a wired or wireless transmission medium. Each of the units or an associated processor or controller that provides instructions to the communication interface of these units may be configured to communicate with one or more of the other units via a transmission medium. For example, these units may include a wired interface configured to receive or send signals to one or more of the other units via a wired transmission medium. Additionally, these units may include a wireless interface that may include a receiver, a transmitter, or a transceiver (such as a radio frequency (RF) transceiver) that is configured to receive or send signals, or both, to one or more of the other units on a wireless transmission medium.

[0080] In some aspects, CU 410 may host higher layer control functions. Such control functions may include radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), service data adaptation protocol (SDAP), etc. Each control function can be implemented using an interface that is configured to communicate signals with other control functions hosted by CU 410. CU 410 may be configured to handle user plane functionality (i.e., central unit-user plane (CU-UP)), control plane functionality (i.e., central unit-control plane (CU-CP)), or a combination thereof. In some specific implementations, CU 410 may be logically split into one or more CU-UP units and one or more CU-CP units. When implemented in an O-RAN configuration, the CU-UP unit may communicate bidirectionally with the CU-CP unit via an interface (such as an E1 interface). As needed, CU 410 may be implemented to communicate with DU 430 for network control and signaling.

[0081] DU 430 may correspond to a logical unit that includes one or more base station functions for controlling the operation of one or more RUs 440. In some aspects, DU 430 may host one or more of a radio link control (RLC) layer, a medium access control (MAC) layer, and one or more high physical (PHY) layers (such as modules for forward error correction (FEC) encoding and decoding, scrambling, modulation and demodulation, etc.) depending at least in part on functional partitioning (such as those defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)). In some aspects, DU 430 may further host one or more low PHY layers. Each layer (or module) may be implemented using an interface that is configured to communicate signals with other layers (and modules) hosted by DU 430 or with control functions hosted by CU 410.

[0082] The lower layer functionality may be implemented by one or more RUs 440. In some deployments, a RU 440 controlled by a DU 430 may correspond to a logical node that hosts RF processing functions or low PHY layer functions (such as performing Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), Inverse FFT (iFFT), digital beamforming, physical random access channel (PRACH) extraction and filtering, etc.), or both, based at least in part on a functional split (such as a lower layer functional split). In such an architecture, the RU 440 may be implemented to handle over-the-air (OTA) communications with one or more UEs 104. In some implementations, real-time and non-real-time aspects of communicating with the control plane and user plane of the RU 440 may be controlled by the corresponding DU 430. In some scenarios, this configuration may enable the DU 430 and the CU 410 to be implemented in a cloud-based RAN architecture such as a virtual RAN (vRAN) architecture.

[0083] The SMO framework 405 may be configured to support RAN deployment and configuration of non-virtualized network elements and virtualized network elements. For non-virtualized network elements, the SMO framework 405 may be configured to support the deployment of dedicated physical resources for RAN coverage requirements, which may be managed via an operation and maintenance interface (such as an O1 interface). For virtualized network elements, the SMO framework 405 may be configured to interact with a cloud computing platform (such as an open cloud (O-cloud) 490) to perform network element lifecycle management (such as instantiating virtualized network elements) via a cloud computing platform interface (such as an O2 interface). Such virtualized network elements may include, but are not limited to, CU 410, DU 430, RU 440, and near-RT RIC 425. In some specific implementations, the SMO framework 405 may communicate with hardware aspects of the 4G RAN such as an open eNB (O-eNB) 411 via the O1 interface. Additionally, in some specific implementations, the SMO framework 405 may communicate directly with one or more RUs 440 via the O1 interface. The SMO framework 405 may also include a non-RT RIC 415 configured to support the functionality of the SMO framework 405 .

[0084] The non-RT RIC 415 may be configured to include logic functions that enable non-real-time control and optimization of RAN elements and resources, artificial intelligence / machine learning (AI / ML) workflows including model training and updating, or policy-based guidance of applications / features in the near-RT RIC 425. The non-RT RIC 415 may be coupled to or in communication with the near-RT RIC 425 (such as via an A1 interface). The near-RT RIC 425 may be configured to include logic functions that enable near-real-time control and optimization of RAN elements and resources via data collection and actions through an interface (such as via an E2 interface) that connects one or more CUs 410, one or more DUs 430, or both, and the O-eNB with the near-RT RIC 425.

[0085] In some implementations, in order to generate an AI / ML model to be deployed in the near-RT RIC 425, the non-RT RIC 415 may receive parameters or external enrichment information from an external server. Such information may be utilized by the near-RT RIC 425 and may be received from a non-network data source or from a network function at the SMO framework 405 or the non-RT RIC 415. In some examples, the non-RT RIC 415 or the near-RT RIC 425 may be configured to tune RAN behavior or performance. For example, the non-RT RIC 415 may monitor long-term trends and patterns of performance and employ AI / ML models to perform corrective actions through the SMO framework 405 (such as via reconfiguration of O1) or via the creation of RAN management policies (such as A1 policies).

[0086] At least one of the TX processor 368, the RX processor 356, and the controller / processor 359 may be configured to combine Figure 1 The 198 came to execute all aspects.

[0087] At least one of the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375 may be configured to combine Figure 1 The 198 came to execute all aspects.

[0088] Figure 5 5 illustrates a simplified block diagram of an RFID reader 502 communicating with an RFID tag 504 in a wireless communication system 500. The RFID reader 502 is one possible implementation of an RFID reader and can be arbitrarily configured as a base station (e.g., Figure 4 The base station 102 or base station component illustrated in Figure 1 104, IAB node, repeater, etc.) with an end user (e.g., Figure 1 The RFID reader may be implemented on an AN such as a smart repeater, an RF repeater, a reflector (e.g., an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) or a reconfigurable smart surface (RIS)), or on another UE in a sidelink communication. The RFID tag 504 is one possible RFID tag associated with, for example, a passive Internet of Things (PIoT). Other specific implementations of the RFID tag include a base station or a UE.

[0089] RFID tag 504 can be passive, active, or battery-assisted passive. An active RFID tag has an onboard battery and periodically transmits its ID signal. A battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID tag has a small battery on board and is activated when an RFID reader 502 is present. A passive RFID tag is cheaper and smaller because it has no battery; instead, a passive RFID tag uses radio energy transmitted by the RFID reader 502. However, in order to operate a passive RFID tag, the passive RFID tag must be illuminated at a power level much greater than the power level required for the passive RFID tag to transmit a signal.

[0090] RFID tags 504 can be read-only, with a factory assigned serial number that serves as a key into the database, or they can be read / write, where object specific data can be written into the tag by the system user. Field programmable tags can be write-once, read-many; "blank" tags can have an electronic product code written into them by the user.

[0091] RFID tag 504 may include at least two parts: (1) an integrated circuit 512 for storing and processing information, modulating and demodulating received RF signals, harvesting DC power from incident reader signals, generating backscatter modulated information signals, and other specialized functions; and (2) an antenna for receiving and transmitting backscatter modulated information signals 510. Tag information may be stored in non-volatile memory included in RFID tag 504. RFID tag 504 may include fixed or programmable logic for processing transmission and sensor data, respectively.

[0092] The transceiver 506 of the RFID reader 502 transmits one or more messages via continuous RF waves 508 to stimulate and interrogate the RFID tag 504. Figure 5The transceiver 506 is illustrated as transmitting one continuous RF wave 508, but in other aspects, the transceiver 506 can be configured to generate multiple continuous RF waves. The RFID tag 504 receives the message and then responds with its identification and other information by generating a backscatter modulated information signal 510. The identification can be a unique tag serial number, and the other information can be product-related information, such as a stock number, a batch number or lot number, a production date, or other specific information. Since the RFID tag 504 has a separate serial number, the RFID reader 502 can distinguish between several tags that may be within the range of the RFID reader 502 and read them simultaneously. Passive RFID tags generate backscatter modulated information signals 510 by reflecting back a portion of the continuous RF wave 508 in a process called backscattering. Therefore, the frequency of the backscatter modulated information signal 510 is determined by the frequency of the continuous RF wave 508. That is, in one example, the frequency of the backscatter modulated information signal 510 is equal to the frequency of the continuous RF wave 508 received at the RFID tag 504.

[0093] Figure 6 is an example RFID device (e.g., Figure 5 reader 502) and a tag (e.g., Figure 5 Block diagram of an example communication signal 600 between tags 504).

[0094] Initially, the RFID device may send a first CW 602 to the tag to power up the tag. In one example, the duration of the first CW 602 may be equal to or greater than 400 μs. The first CW 602 may provide sufficient power to the tag to achieve a minimum turn-on voltage 614 required by the tag and a minimum IC voltage 616 to power the tag's integrated circuit. A power level 618 is illustrated to show an example power level provided by the signaling of the RFID device.

[0095] After the first CW 602, the RFID device may send a first command 604 that carries information for programming the tag and / or for modulation and backscattering by the tag. The first command may also provide enough power to maintain the minimum required IC voltage 616.

[0096] A second CW 606 and a third CW 608 may be sent to maintain power at the tag while the tag modulates and sends a backscatter response 612. to one or more of the CW and / or command 604. In some examples, the CW, command 604, and backscatter response 612 may be sent using a directional beam. As used herein, a CW signal may refer to a continuous signal containing both CW and command elements (e.g., Figure 6 ) or a continuous signal containing only CW elements.

[0097] Example of RFID Beamforming

[0098] Various aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and techniques for achieving high throughput and long-range backscatter-based communications using beamformed CW and tag signals. That is, in some examples, tags can be configured for beamformed reflection and / or beamformed backscatter signals.

[0099] Fig. 7A is an example of an RFID tag with an active beamforming network (e.g., Figure 5 504). A block diagram of an example antenna array (e.g., antenna panel) 700 for an RFID tag 504.

[0100] Here, from an RFID reader (e.g. Figure 5 RFID reader 502 of the embodiment of the present invention receives a first signal 702 (e.g., a CW signal). The first signal 702 is received by a plurality of antenna elements 708 of the antenna array 700. Here, each instance of the first signal 702 incident to the plurality of antenna elements 708 is received at a specific angle θ. The first signal 702 may be a beamformed signal.

[0101] In this example, the tag may include a reverse directional array circuit or "phase inversion circuit" 706. The circuit 706 may be used as an active beamforming network by applying different phase shifts to the incident signal in order to generate and transmit a reflected signal or a backscattered signal in a desired direction. Thus, the circuit 706 may be configured to direct the second signal 704 into a plurality of different directions (e.g., using a plurality of different beams). Here, the circuit 706 may be configured to generate and transmit the second signal 704 in the same direction as the first signal 702 without any prior knowledge of the angle of the first signal. Thus, the second signal 704 (e.g., a reflected signal or a backscattered signal) may be transmitted in the same direction with the same relative angle θ. Thus, the phase inversion circuit 706 is configured to achieve reverse directional transmission by applying a phase difference inversion characteristic to the first signal 702 to generate the second signal 704.

[0102] Thus, the tag can be configured to obtain a first signal 702 from an RFID device and then generate a second signal 704 (e.g., using a reflected signal or a backscattered signal of the second signal). Here, the circuit 706 can apply a phase shift to the second signal 704, wherein the phase shift is based on the first signal 702. For example, the phase shift can be performed so that the second signal 704 is sent in the same direction as the first signal 702. In some examples, the first signal 702 can indicate a beam index associated with a particular phase shift. In such examples, the phase shift can be performed according to the beam index. The circuit 706 can then output the second signal for transmission via a beam defined by the phase shift.

[0103] Figure 7B is an example of an RFID tag with a passive beamforming network (e.g., Figure 5 Block diagram of an example antenna array 710 for an RFID tag 504.

[0104] Here, from an RFID reader (e.g. Figure 5 RFID reader 502 of the embodiment of the present invention receives a first signal 712 (e.g., a CW signal). The first signal 712 is received by multiple antenna elements 718 of the antenna array 710. Here, each instance of the first signal 712 incident to the multiple antenna elements 718 is received at a specific angle θ. The first signal 712 can be a beamformed signal.

[0105] In this example, the antenna array 710 is configured as a Van Atta array that includes antenna elements 718 connected in pairs 716 that reflect incident signaling (e.g., the first signal 712). In some examples, the antenna pairs 716 can be defined as equal phase transmission lines. Here, each antenna pair can be connected to a switch (e.g., a single pole single throw (SPSD)) that enables the tag to generate and transmit a second signal 714 based on a change in the amplitude and / or phase of the first signal 712. The connected pairs 716 can be configured to generate and transmit the second signal 714 in the same direction as the first signal 712 without any prior knowledge of the angle of the first signal.

[0106] Thus, the tag may be configured to obtain a first signal 712 from a reader via the antenna array 710, wherein the first signal 712 is received via a first beam having a first direction. The connected pair 716 may be configured to generate a second signal 714 using the first signal 712, wherein the generation applies an opposite directional phase shift to the second signal 714. The tag may then output the second signal 714 for transmission via a second beam having the same first direction as the first signal 712.

[0107] Figure 7C is an example of an RFID tag configured to act as a reflector (e.g., Figure 5 Block diagram of an example antenna array 720 for an RFID tag 504.

[0108] Here, from an RFID reader (e.g. Figure 5 RFID reader 502 of the embodiment of the present invention receives a first signal 722 (e.g., a CW signal). The first signal 722 is received by a plurality of antenna elements 728 of the antenna array 720. Here, each instance of the first signal 722 incident to the plurality of antenna elements 728 is received at a specific angle θ. The first signal 722 may be a beamformed signal.

[0109] In this example, the antenna array 720 can be configured for a dual static scenario. For example, a tag can be used as an intermediary (e.g., a repeater or transponder) for communication between two other devices. Thus, a signal received from a device can be reflected to another device in a directional beam. The direction of the beam used to reflect the signal can depend on the angle of arrival of the received signal.

[0110] For example, the tag may receive a first signal 722 having a first angle (θi). In some examples, the bi-static circuit 726 may be configured to modulate the data contained in the first signal 722 so that the second signal 724 generated and transmitted by the tag includes information from the tag. The second signal 724 may be reflected at a second angle (θr).

[0111] Thus, in some examples, the tag can be configured to obtain a first signal 722 from a first RFID device (e.g., a reader) via the antenna array 720. The circuit 726 can be configured to generate a second signal 724 using the first signal 722, wherein generating the second signal 724 includes applying a phase shift to the second signal 724, wherein the phase shift is configured to bias the transmission of the second signal 724 in a direction that reflects the first signal 722. The circuit 726 can be further configured to output the second signal 724 for transmission via a second beam defined by the phase shift.

[0112] In some examples, any of the antenna arrays discussed above may be configured to support omnidirectional reflection. For example, the antenna array may simply be configured to receive a first signal and generate and transmit a second signal in an omnidirectional direction.

[0113] Figure 8 is an example RFID device 802 (e.g., Figure 5 RFID reader 502) and tag 804 (e.g., Figure 5 802). It should be noted that in some examples, an RFID tag may also be referred to as an RFID device. The following communication involves sending an indication of the beamforming capabilities of the tag 804 from the tag 804. This provides information about the beamforming capabilities of the tag 804 to the RFID device 802 and may change how the RFID device 802 communicates with the tag 804.

[0114] Initially, the RFID device 802 may send a CW signal to the tag 804 in a first communication 806. The CW signal may include both a CW aspect and a command aspect. For example, the CW signal may include a command requesting information about the beamforming capabilities of the tag 804.

[0115] In response to the first communication 806, the tag 804 can send a first backscatter signal indicating its beamforming network capabilities to the RFID device 802 in a second communication 808. The tag 804 can generate the first backscatter signal based on the CW signal of the first communication. The first backscatter signal can indicate one or more beamforming capabilities, such as: an active beamforming network, a passive beamforming network (e.g., Van Atta), a signal mirroring capability, and / or an omnidirectional backscatter capability. It should be noted that each beamforming capability can be indicated as bi-static and / or mono-static. In some examples, the beamforming capabilities can include the number of antenna elements of the tag 804 and / or the antenna panel report of the tag.

[0116] The antenna panel report may include an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability. That is, tag 804 may include multiple antenna panels, each antenna panel having one or more antenna elements, wherein each antenna panel is individually configured for one or more beamforming capabilities relative to another antenna panel. For example, a first antenna panel of tag 804 may be configured with an active beamforming network, a second antenna panel may be configured with a passive beamforming network, and a third antenna panel may be configured with a signal mirroring capability. Thus, tag 804 may support one or more beamforming networks.

[0117] In some examples, the tag 804 can determine a recommended beamforming network, antenna panel, and / or beam direction to use for communicating with the RFID device 802. The tag 804 can then include the recommendation in the first backscatter signal. In some examples, the tag 804 can base the recommendation on the energy state of the battery of the tag 804 (e.g., if the battery is low, the tag can recommend using a panel with a passive beamforming network to save energy), the amount of power received via the CW signal received from the RFID device 802, and / or the beamforming capabilities of the tag 804.

[0118] In a third communication 810, the RFID device 802 may send a second signal with a command or additional information to the tag 804 based on the first backscatter signal.

[0119] In one example, the RFID device 802 may determine, based on the first backscatter signal, to provide higher RF power to the tag 804. For example, if the first backscatter signal indicates that the tag 804 is configured with an active beamforming network (e.g., which requires more power than a passive beamforming network), the RFID device 802 may determine to provide additional power to the tag 804 so that the tag 804 has sufficient power to communicate with the RFID device 802 using the active beamforming network. Alternatively, if the tag 802 is only capable of using a beamforming capability that requires less power, or if the RFID device 802 requests the tag 804 to use a beamforming capability that requires less power, the RFID device 802 may determine to reduce its transmit power.

[0120] In another example, the RFID device 802 can use the first backscatter signal 808 to determine the number of antenna elements available at the tag 804 in order to evaluate the beamforming gain and adjust the transmit power and data rate at the RFID device 802 based on the beamforming gain. For example, the first backscatter signal can include an indication of the maximum data rate at the tag 804.

[0121] In some examples, the RFID device 802 can determine a backscatter pattern (e.g., the tag's specific beamforming network capabilities, data rate, signal strength, and range) based on the first backscatter signal 808. The RFID device 802 can use the second signal to send an indication of the backscatter pattern to the tag 804 so that the tag 804 applies the determined backscatter pattern to future communications with the RFID device 802.

[0122] In some examples, RFID device 802 can include in the second signal an indication of the particular beam that tag 804 will use for future communications with RFID device 802 (e.g., a beam index). In some examples, RFID device 802 can include in the second signal an indication of the particular beamforming network and / or antenna panel at tag 804 for measurement purposes (e.g., measuring the signal strength of different beamforming networks for a tag).

[0123] At the first process 812, the tag 804 may make any changes to one or more communication parameters and / or its RF front end requested in the second signal by the RFID device 802. At the fourth communication 814, the tag 804 may send a backscatter signal to the RFID device 802 in accordance with any request for communication adjustments included in the second signal.

[0124] Fig. 9 900 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID tag (e.g., Figure 5 Tag 504; device 1402) executes. Fig. 9 Any one or more of the steps may be combined with Figures 10 to 13 At 902, the tag may obtain a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device. For example, 902 may be performed by Fig.14 Here, the tag may receive a CW signal from an RFID device (such as a reader), such as Figure 8 illustrated in the first communication 806.

[0125] At 904, the tag may be configured to output a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability of the tag. Fig.14 Here, the tag can use the received CW signal to generate a backscattered signal and send the signal to the RFID device. The signal may include an indication of the beamforming capability of the tag, such as in combination with Figure 8 The second communication 808 is illustrated and described.

[0126] At 906, the tag may optionally obtain signaling based on the first backscatter signal, the signaling being configured to indicate a particular beam index for future backscatter signals. For example, 906 may be performed by Fig.14 Here, the tag RFID device can determine a specific beam and send, for example, a beam index to the tag. The beam can be determined by the RFID device based on the above combination Figure 8 The information provided in the second communication 808 is illustrated and described.

[0127] At 908, the tag may optionally obtain a second signal from the RFID device that is configured to indicate a backscatter pattern, wherein the backscatter pattern includes an indication of at least one of: a specific beamforming capability of the device, a specific antenna panel of the device, a data rate of future backscatter signals, a signal strength measurement of the first backscatter signal, or a range requirement of future backscatter signals. For example, 908 may be performed by Fig.14 Here, the tag RFID device can determine the specific mode for sending the backscatter signal based on the information contained in the second communication 808 (for example, in combination with Figure 8 Any one or more of the parameters discussed).

[0128] At 909, the tag may optionally output a second backscatter signal for transmission to the RFID device using the backscatter pattern indicated in the obtained second signal. Fig.14The sending component 1442 is executed. Here, the tag can use a directional beam to send a backscatter signal, where the backscatter signal is defined by a backscatter pattern indicated by the RFID device.

[0129] At 910, the tag may optionally obtain a second signal from the RFID device, the second signal being configured to indicate the first beamforming capability. For example, 910 may be performed by Fig.14 Here, the RFID device can determine the specific beamforming capabilities of the tag to use based on the information contained in the above-mentioned second communication 808. The RFID device can then send an indication of the beamforming capabilities, and the tag can use the indicated beamforming capabilities in future communications.

[0130] At 912, the tag may optionally switch from the second beamforming capability to the first beamforming capability in response to the second signal. For example, 912 may be performed by Fig.14 Here, the tag can switch from the current beamforming capability to the beamforming capability indicated in the second signal, such as in combination with Figure 8 Illustrated by the first process 812.

[0131] In some aspects, the tag can optionally obtain a second signal from the RFID device, the second signal being configured to indicate the first antenna panel of the device. For example, obtaining the second signal can be performed by Fig.14 Here, the tag RFID device can determine a specific antenna panel for the tag to communicate with the RFID device based on the information contained in the second communication 808. The RFID device can then send an indication of the antenna panel, and the tag can use the indicated panel in future communications.

[0132] In some aspects, the tag can optionally switch from the second antenna panel of the device to the first antenna panel in response to the second signal. For example, the switch can be caused by Fig.14 Here, the tag can switch from the current antenna panel to the antenna panel indicated in the second signal, such as in combination with Figure 8 Illustrated by the first process 812.

[0133] In certain aspects, the beamforming capability indicates at least one of a mono-static beamforming capability or a bi-static capability.

[0134] In certain aspects, the beamforming capability is indicative of at least one of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the device, wherein each of the antenna panels includes at least one antenna element.

[0135] In certain aspects, the beamforming capability includes antenna panel reporting of the device.

[0136] In certain aspects, the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

[0137] In certain aspects, the beamforming capabilities include recommended beamforming capabilities for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capabilities are based on one or more communication metrics of the device.

[0138] In certain aspects, the one or more communication metrics include a power state of the device or a measured energy level of the first signal.

[0139] In certain aspects, the second signal includes an indication of a beam index, and wherein the phase shift is based on the beam index.

[0140] Fig.10 1000 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID tag (e.g., Figure 5 Tag 504; device 1402) executes. Fig.10 Any one or more of the steps may be combined with Fig. 9 and Figures 11 to 13 At 1002, the tag can obtain a second signal from the RFID device, such as Figure 8 As illustrated in the third communication 810 of FIG. 914 , for example, may be Fig.14 The receiving component 1440 executes.

[0141] At 1004, the tag may generate a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal. Fig.14 The generation component 1446 executes.

[0142] At 1006, the tag may output a second backscatter signal for transmission. For example, 1006 may be performed by Fig.14 The sending component 1442 executes.

[0143] Fig.11 1100 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID tag (e.g., Figure 5 Tag 504; device 1402) executes. Fig.11 Any one or more of the steps may be combined with Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.12 and Fig.13At 1102, the tag may obtain a second signal from the RFID device, wherein the second signal is obtained via a first beam associated with a first direction, such as Figure 8 As illustrated in the third communication 810 of FIG. 1102 , for example, Fig.14 The receiving component 1440 executes.

[0144] At 1104, the tag may generate a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a reverse directional phase shift relative to the second signal. Fig.14 The generation component 1446 executes.

[0145] At 1106, the tag may output a second backscattered signal for transmission via a second beam also associated with the first direction. For example, 1106 may be performed by Fig.14 The sending component 1442 executes.

[0146] Fig.12 1200 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID tag (e.g., Figure 5 Tag 504; device 1402) executes. Fig.12 Any one or more of the steps may be combined with Figures 9 to 12 At 1202, the tag may obtain a second signal from the RFID device, such as Figure 8 As illustrated in the third communication 810 of FIG. 1202 , for example, Fig.14 The receiving component 1440 executes.

[0147] At 1204, the tag may generate a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal that biases the transmission of the second backscatter signal in a direction that reflects the second signal. Fig.14 The generation component 1446 executes.

[0148] At 1206, the tag may output a second backscattered signal for transmission via a second beam also defined by the phase shift. For example, 1206 may be Fig.14 The sending component 1442 executes.

[0149] Fig.13 1300 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID tag (e.g., Figure 5 At 1302, the tag may obtain a second signal from the RFID device via a beam having a first direction, such as Figure 8As illustrated in the third communication 810 of . For example, 1302 may be Fig.14 The receiving component 1440 executes.

[0150] At 1304, the tag may output a second backscatter signal via an omnidirectional beam for transmission. For example, 1304 may be performed by Fig.14 The sending component 1442 executes.

[0151] Fig.14 1400 is an example of a hardware implementation for an apparatus 1402. The apparatus 1402 is an RFID tag and includes a baseband unit 1404. The baseband unit 1404 can communicate with another RFID device via a cellular RF transceiver. The baseband unit 1404 may include a computer-readable medium / memory. The baseband unit 1404 is responsible for general processing, including executing software stored on the computer-readable medium / memory. The software, when executed by the baseband unit 1404, causes the baseband unit 1404 to perform the various functions described above. The computer-readable medium / memory can also be used to store data manipulated by the baseband unit 1404 when executing the software. The baseband unit 1404 further includes a receiving component 1430, a communication manager 1432, and a sending component 1434. The communication manager 1432 includes one or more of the illustrated components. The components within the communication manager 1432 can be stored in a computer-readable medium / memory and / or configured as hardware within the baseband unit 1404.

[0152] The communication manager 1432 includes a receiving component 1440, which is configured to: obtain a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device; obtain signaling configured to indicate a specific beam index for future backscatter signals based on the first backscatter signal; obtain a second signal configured to indicate a backscatter pattern from the RFID device, wherein the backscatter pattern includes an indication of at least one of: a specific beamforming capability of the device, a specific antenna panel of the device, a data rate of future backscatter signals, a signal strength measurement of the first backscatter signal, or a range requirement for future backscatter signals; obtain a second signal configured to indicate the first beamforming capability from the RFID device; obtain a second signal configured to indicate the first antenna panel of the device from the RFID device; obtain a second signal from the RFID device; obtain a second signal from the RFID device, the second signal being received via a first beam having a first direction; obtain a second signal from the RFID device; for example, as combined Figures 8 to 13 as described.

[0153] The communication manager 1432 further includes a transmission component 1442, which is configured to output a first backscatter signal for transmission to the RFID device in response to the first signal, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability of the device; output a second backscatter signal for transmission via a beam defined by a phase shift; output a second backscatter signal for transmission via a beam defined by a phase shift; output a second backscatter signal for transmission via a beam defined by a phase shift; output a second backscatter signal for transmission via an omnidirectional beam; for example, as combined Figures 8 to 13 as described.

[0154] The communication manager 1432 further includes a switching component 1444 configured to switch from the second beamforming capability to the first beamforming capability in response to the second signal; switch from the second antenna panel of the device to the first antenna panel in response to the second signal; for example, in combination with Figures 8 to 13 as described.

[0155] The communication manager 1432 further includes a generation component 1446 configured to generate a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the generating includes applying a phase shift to the second backscatter signal; generating the second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the generating includes applying a reverse directional phase shift to the second backscatter signal; and generating the second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the generating includes applying a phase shift to the second backscatter signal that biases the transmission of the second backscatter signal in a direction that reflects the second signal; for example, as combined with Figures 8 to 13 as described.

[0156] The apparatus may include executing Figures 9 to 13 Each of the boxes in the algorithm in the preceding flowchart is an additional component. Therefore, Figures 9 to 13 Each block in the aforementioned flow chart of can be performed by a component, and the apparatus may include one or more of these components. These components may be one or more hardware components, which are specifically configured to perform the process / algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to perform the process / algorithm, stored in a computer-readable medium so as to be implemented by a processor, or some combination thereof.

[0157] In one configuration, the apparatus 1402 and in particular the baseband unit 1404 includes components for obtaining a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device; components for outputting a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus; components for obtaining, based on the first backscatter signal, signaling configured to indicate a specific beam index for future backscatter signals; components for obtaining, from the RFID device, a second signal configured to indicate a backscatter pattern, wherein the backscatter pattern includes an indication of at least one of: a specific beamforming capability of the apparatus, a specific antenna panel of the apparatus, a data rate of future backscatter signals , a signal strength measurement of a first backscatter signal or a range requirement for a future backscatter signal; a component for obtaining a second backscatter signal for transmission to an RFID device using a backscatter pattern indicated in the obtained second signal; a component for obtaining a second signal configured to indicate a first beamforming capability from the RFID device; a component for switching from the second beamforming capability to the first beamforming capability in response to the second signal; a component for obtaining a second signal from the RFID device; a component for generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal; a component for outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission; a component for transmitting from a second device of the device in response to the second signal Components for switching the antenna panel to the first antenna panel; components for obtaining a second signal from the RFID device; components for generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal, the phase shift biasing the transmission of the second backscatter signal in the direction of reflecting the second signal; components for outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission via a second beam also defined by the phase shift; components for obtaining a second signal from the RFID device, the second signal being received via the first beam having a first direction; components for generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the generation includes applying a reverse directional phase shift to the second backscatter signal; components for outputting the second backscatter signal via a beam defined by the phase shift means for outputting a second backscatter signal for transmission via a beam defined by the phase shift; means for obtaining a second signal from the RFID device via a beam having a first direction; and means for outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission via an omnidirectional beam; means for receiving a second signal from the RFID device via a second antenna panel, the second signal being configured to indicate the first antenna panel associated with the beamforming capability;and means for triggering a switch from the second antenna panel to the first antenna panel in response to the second signal.;

[0158] The aforementioned means may be one or more of the aforementioned components of the apparatus 1402 configured to perform the functions recited by the aforementioned means. As described above, the apparatus 1402 may include the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375. Therefore, in one configuration, the aforementioned means may be the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375 configured to perform the functions recited by the aforementioned means.

[0159] Fig.15 1500 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication. The method may be performed by an RFID reader (e.g., UE 104 or base station 102 / 180; apparatus 1602). At 1502, the RFID reader is configured to output a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal being configured to request beamforming capabilities of the RFID device. For example, 1502 may be performed by a transmitting component 1640. Here, the RFID reader may output a signal to a tag (e.g., Figure 8 A first communication 806) requests feedback indicating the tag beamforming capability. For example, Figure 6 As illustrated in , the first signal may include a CW signal and a command signal.

[0160] At 1504, the RFID reader is configured to obtain a first backscatter signal from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to indicate beamforming capability. For example, receiving component 1642 may receive a backscatter signal from a tag, wherein the backscatter signal (e.g., Figure 8 The second communication 808) is responsive to the first signal and provides an indication of the tag's beamforming capabilities to the reader.

[0161] At 1506, the RFID reader can be configured to optionally output a second signal having a higher transmit power relative to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, wherein the higher transmit power is based on the first backscattered signal. For example, 1506 can be performed by the transmitting component 1640. Here, if the tag indicates that it has a low energy state, or the first signal requests the tag to switch beamforming modes and / or antenna panels for measurement purposes, the reader can determine to adjust its transmit power in future transmissions to the tag.

[0162] At 1508, the RFID reader can be configured to optionally output a second signal for transmission to the RFID device, the second signal being configured to indicate a particular beam index for future backscatter signals. For example, 1508 can be performed by a transmission component 1640. Here, the reader can identify a particular beam and send an indication of the beam to the tag. The tag can then use the identified beam for future backscatter transmissions to the reader.

[0163] In certain aspects, wherein the beamforming capability is indicative of at least one antenna element of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the device, wherein each of the antenna panels comprises at least one antenna element.

[0164] In certain aspects, the beamforming capability includes antenna panel reporting of the device.

[0165] In certain aspects, the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

[0166] In certain aspects, the beamforming capabilities include recommended beamforming capabilities for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capabilities are based on one or more communication metrics of the RFID device.

[0167] In certain aspects, the one or more communication metrics include a power state of the device or a measured energy level of the first signal.

[0168] Fig.161600 is an example of a hardware implementation for an apparatus 1602. The apparatus 1602 may be implemented as a BS, UE, IAB node, repeater, etc. configured as an RFID reader including a baseband unit 1604. The baseband unit 1604 may communicate with RFID tags and any other suitable network nodes via a cellular RF transceiver. The baseband unit 1604 may include a computer-readable medium / memory. The baseband unit 1604 is responsible for general processing, including executing software stored on a computer-readable medium / memory. The software, when executed by the baseband unit 1604, causes the baseband unit 1604 to perform the various functions described above. The computer-readable medium / memory may also be used to store data manipulated by the baseband unit 1604 when executing the software. The baseband unit 1604 further includes a receiving component 1630, a communication manager 1632, and a sending component 1634. The communication manager 1632 includes one or more of the illustrated components. The components within the communication manager 1632 may be stored in a computer-readable medium / memory and / or configured as hardware within the baseband unit 1604. The baseband unit 1604 may be a component of the BS 310 and may include a memory 376 and / or at least one of the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375.

[0169] The communication manager 1632 includes a transmission component 1640 configured to output a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag, the first signal configured to request a beamforming capability of the RFID tag; output a second signal for transmission to the RFID tag having a higher transmission power relative to the first signal, wherein the higher transmission power is based on the first backscattered signal; and output a second signal for transmission to the RFID tag, the second signal configured to indicate a particular beam index for future backscattered signals, e.g., as in conjunction with Fig.15 As described in 1502, 1506 and 1508.

[0170] The communication manager 1632 further includes a receiving component 1642 configured to output a second signal having a higher transmit power relative to the first signal for transmission to the RFID tag, wherein the higher transmit power is based on the first backscattered signal; for example, as described in conjunction with 1506.

[0171] The apparatus may include executing Fig.15The additional components of each box in the box of the algorithm in the aforementioned flowchart. Therefore, each box in the above flowchart can be performed by a component, and the device may include one or more of these components. These components can be one or more hardware components, which are specifically configured to perform the process / algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to perform the process / algorithm, stored in a computer-readable medium for implementation by a processor, or some combination thereof.

[0172] In one configuration, the device 1602 and in particular the baseband unit 1604 includes a component for outputting a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag, the first signal being configured to request the beamforming capability of the RFID tag; a component for obtaining a first backscatter signal from the RFID tag, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability; a component for outputting a second signal having a higher transmit power relative to the first signal for transmission to the RFID tag, wherein the higher transmit power is based on the first backscatter signal; and a component for outputting a second signal for transmission to the RFID tag, the second signal being configured to indicate a specific beam index for future backscatter signals.

[0173] The aforementioned means may be one or more of the aforementioned components of the apparatus 1602 configured to perform the functions recited by the aforementioned means. As described above, the apparatus 1602 may include the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375. Therefore, in one configuration, the aforementioned means may be the TX processor 316, the RX processor 370, and the controller / processor 375 configured to perform the functions recited by the aforementioned means.

[0174] Additional considerations

[0175] The means for receiving or the means for obtaining may include Figure 3 The receiver (such as the receiving processor 356 / 370) or the antenna 320 / 352 of the BS 310 or UE 350 illustrated in FIG. The means for transmitting or the means for outputting may include Figure 3 310 or UE 350 transmitter (such as the transmission processor 316 / 368) or antenna 320 / 352. The means for switching, the means for triggering switching, the means for generating, the means for determining and / or the means for executing may include a processing system, which may include one or more processors, such as Figure 3 1. The receive processor 370 / 356, transmit processor 316 / 368, TX MIMO processor 318 / 354 or controller 375 / 359 of the BS 110 and the UE 120 illustrated in FIG.

[0176] In some cases, a device may have an interface (a component for outputting) for outputting a frame for transmission, rather than actually transmitting the frame. For example, a processor may output a frame to a radio frequency (RF) front end via a bus interface for transmission. Similarly, a device may have an interface (a component for obtaining) for obtaining a frame received from another device, rather than actually receiving the frame. For example, a processor may obtain (or receive) a frame from an RF front end for reception via a bus interface.

[0177] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the blocks in the disclosed process / flowchart is merely an illustration of the exemplary method. It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the blocks in the process / flowchart can be rearranged based on design preferences. Further, some blocks can be combined or omitted. The attached method claims provide the elements of each block in a sample order, but are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy provided.

[0178] The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but to conform to the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein the elements mentioned in the singular are not intended to mean "one and only one", unless specifically so stated, but "one or more". Terms such as "if", "when ..." and "while ..." should be interpreted as "under the condition of ...", rather than meaning an immediate time relationship or reaction. That is, these phrases, such as "when ...", do not mean an immediate action in response to the occurrence of an action or during the occurrence of an action, but simply imply that if the conditions are met, then the action will occur, but no specific or immediate time limit is required for the occurrence of the action. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "used as an example, instance or illustration". Any aspect described as "exemplary" herein is not necessarily interpreted as being preferred or having an advantage over other aspects. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the term "some" refers to one or more. Combinations such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” include any combination of A, B, and / or C, and may include multiple A, multiple B, or multiple C. Specifically, combinations such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” may be only A, only B, only C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, where any such combination may include one or more members of A, B, or C. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout the disclosure that are known or later become known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, no matter whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims, anything disclosed herein is not intended to be disclosed to the public. Words such as "module", "mechanism", "element", "device", etc. cannot replace the word "component". Therefore, no claim element will be interpreted as a functional component unless the element is explicitly recited using the phrase "component for...".

[0179] Example aspects

[0180] The following examples are merely illustrative and may be combined with aspects of other embodiments or teachings described herein, but are not limited thereto.

[0181] Embodiment 1 is a method for wireless communication by a first radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the method comprising: obtaining a first signal from a second RFID device; and outputting a first backscatter signal in response to the first signal for transmission to the second RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the first RFID device.

[0182] Embodiment 2 is a method according to embodiment 1, wherein the beamforming capability indicates at least one of a mono-static beamforming capability or a bi-static capability.

[0183] Embodiment 3 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 and 2, wherein the method further comprises: obtaining, based on the first backscatter signal, signaling configured to indicate a specific beam index for future backscatter signals.

[0184] Embodiment 4 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the beamforming capability indicates at least one of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the first RFID device, wherein each of the antenna panels includes at least one antenna element.

[0185] Embodiment 5 is the method of any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the beamforming capability includes an antenna panel report of the first RFID device.

[0186] Embodiment 6 is a method according to embodiment 5, wherein the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

[0187] Embodiment 7 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the beamforming capability comprises a recommended beamforming capability for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capability is based on one or more communication metrics of the first RFID device.

[0188] Embodiment 8 is the method of embodiment 7, wherein the one or more communication metrics include a power state of the first RFID device or a measured energy level of the first signal.

[0189] Embodiment 9 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the method further includes: obtaining a second signal configured to indicate a backscatter pattern from the second RFID device, wherein the backscatter pattern includes an indication of at least one of the following: a specific beamforming capability of the first RFID device, a specific antenna panel of the first RFID device, a data rate of future backscatter signals, a signal strength measurement of the first backscatter signal, or a range requirement of the future backscatter signal; and outputting a second backscatter signal using the backscatter pattern indicated in the obtained second signal for sending to the second RFID device.

[0190] Embodiment 10 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the beamforming capability is a first beamforming capability, and wherein the method further includes: obtaining a second signal configured to indicate the first beamforming capability from the second RFID device; and switching from the second beamforming capability to the first beamforming capability in response to the second signal.

[0191] Embodiment 11 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the method further includes: obtaining a second signal from the second RFID device; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal; and outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission.

[0192] Embodiment 12 is a method according to embodiment 11, wherein the second signal includes an indication of a beam index, and wherein the phase shift is based on the beam index.

[0193] Embodiment 13 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the method further includes: obtaining a second signal from the second RFID device, wherein the second signal is obtained via a first beam associated with a first direction; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a reverse directional phase shift relative to the second signal; and outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission via a second beam also associated with the first direction.

[0194] Embodiment 14 is a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the method further includes: obtaining a second signal from the second RFID device; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal, and the phase shift biases the transmission of the second backscatter signal in a direction to reflect the second signal; and outputting the second backscatter signal for transmission via a second beam also defined by the phase shift.

[0195] Embodiment 15 is a method for wireless communication by a first radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the method comprising: outputting a first signal for sending to a second RFID device, the first signal being configured to request a beamforming capability of the second RFID device; and obtaining a first backscatter signal from the second RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability.

[0196] Embodiment 16 is a method according to embodiment 15, wherein the method further comprises: outputting a second signal having a higher transmission power relative to the first signal for transmission to the second RFID device, wherein the higher transmission power is based on the first backscatter signal.

[0197] Embodiment 17 is a method according to any one of embodiments 15 and 16, wherein the method further comprises: outputting a second signal for transmission to the second RFID device, the second signal being configured to indicate a specific beam index for future backscatter signals.

[0198] Embodiment 18 is a method according to any one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the beamforming capability indicates at least one antenna element of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the first RFID device, wherein each of the antenna panels includes at least one antenna element.

[0199] Embodiment 19 is the method of any one of embodiments 15 to 18, wherein the beamforming capability includes antenna panel reporting of the first RFID device.

[0200] Embodiment 20 is a method according to embodiment 19, wherein the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

[0201] Embodiment 21 is a method according to any one of embodiments 15 to 20, wherein the beamforming capability includes a recommended beamforming capability for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capability is based on one or more communication metrics of the second RFID device.

[0202] Embodiment 22 is the method of any one of embodiments 15 to 21, wherein the one or more communication metrics include a power state of the first RFID device or a measured energy level of the first signal.

[0203] Embodiment 23 is an RFID device, comprising: a transceiver; a memory comprising instructions; and one or more processors, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute the instructions so that the RFID device performs a method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the transceiver is configured to: receive a first signal from the RFID device; and send a first backscatter signal to the RFID device in response to the first signal, wherein the first backscatter signal is configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID device.

[0204] Embodiment 24 is an RFID device, comprising: a transceiver; a memory, the memory comprising instructions; and one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to execute the instructions and causing the RFID device to perform a method according to any one of embodiments 15 to 22, wherein the transceiver is configured to: send a first signal to another RFID device, the first signal being configured to request the beamforming capability of the other RFID device; and receive a first backscatter signal from the other RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate the beamforming capability.

[0205] Embodiment 25 is a device for wireless communication, the device comprising: a component for executing the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14.

[0206] Embodiment 26 is a device for wireless communication, the device comprising: a component for executing the method according to any one of embodiments 15 to 22.

[0207] Embodiment 27 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium, which includes instructions, which when executed by a device cause the device to perform the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14.

[0208] Embodiment 28 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium, which includes instructions, which when executed by a device cause the device to perform the method according to any one of embodiments 15 to 22.

[0209] Embodiment 29 is a device for wireless communication, the device comprising: a memory, the memory comprising instructions; and one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to execute the instructions so that the device performs a method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 14.

[0210] Embodiment 30 is a device for wireless communication, the device comprising: a memory, the memory comprising instructions; and one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to execute the instructions so that the device performs a method according to any one of Embodiments 15 to 22.

Claims

1. An apparatus configured for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the apparatus to: obtaining a first signal from a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device; as well as A first backscatter signal is output in response to the first signal for transmission to the RFID device, the first backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the apparatus. 2 . The device of claim 1 , wherein the beamforming capability indicates at least one of a mono-static beamforming capability or a bi-static capability.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: Signaling configured to indicate a particular beam index for future backscatter signals is obtained based on the first backscatter signal.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the beamforming capability indicates at least one of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the device, wherein each of the antenna panels comprises at least one antenna element.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the beamforming capability comprises an antenna panel report of the apparatus.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the beamforming capabilities comprise recommended beamforming capabilities for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capabilities are based on one or more communication metrics of the apparatus.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the one or more communication metrics comprise a power state of the apparatus or a measured energy level of the first signal.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: obtaining, from the RFID device, a second signal configured to indicate a backscatter pattern, wherein the backscatter pattern includes an indication of at least one of: a particular beamforming capability of the apparatus, a particular antenna panel of the apparatus, a data rate of future backscatter signals, a signal strength measurement of the first backscatter signal, or a range requirement of the future backscatter signals; and A second backscatter signal is output for transmission to the RFID device using the backscatter pattern indicated in the obtained second signal.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the beamforming capability is a first beamforming capability, and wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: obtaining, from the RFID device, a second signal configured to indicate the first beamforming capability; and The method further comprises switching from a second beamforming capability to the first beamforming capability in response to the second signal.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: obtaining a second signal from the RFID device; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal; and The second backscattered signal is output for transmission.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the second signal comprises an indication of a beam index, and wherein the phase shift is based on the beam index.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: obtaining a second signal from the RFID device, wherein the second signal is obtained via a first beam associated with a first direction; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a reverse directional phase shift relative to the second signal; and The second backscattered signal is output for transmission via a second beam also associated with the first direction.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: obtaining a second signal from the RFID device; generating a second backscatter signal using the second signal, wherein the second backscatter signal is defined by a phase shift relative to the second signal, the phase shift biasing transmission of the second backscatter signal in a direction that reflects the second signal; and The second backscattered signal is output for transmission via a second beam also defined by the phase shift.

15. A radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag, the radio frequency identifier (RFID) tag comprising: Transceiver; a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the RFID tag to: receiving a first signal from an RFID device via the transceiver; as well as A first backscatter signal is transmitted to the RFID device via the transceiver and in response to the first signal, the backscatter signal being configured to indicate a beamforming capability of the RFID tag.

16. The RFID tag of claim 15, further comprising a first antenna panel and a second antenna panel, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the RFID tag to: receiving a second signal from the RFID device via the second antenna panel, the second signal configured to indicate the first antenna panel being associated with the beamforming capability; and Switching from the second antenna panel to the first antenna panel is triggered in response to the second signal.

17. The RFID tag of claim 16, wherein at least one of the following conditions exists: Each of the first antenna panel and the second antenna panel is configured to receive beamformed signaling from the RFID device, or The second antenna panel is associated with another beamforming capability.

18. An apparatus configured for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: a memory including instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions and cause the apparatus to: outputting a first signal for transmission to a radio frequency identifier (RFID) device, the first signal being configured to request a beamforming capability of the RFID device; as well as A first backscatter signal is obtained from the RFID device, the first backscatter signal configured to be indicative of the beamforming capability.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: A second signal having a higher transmission power than the first signal is output for transmission to the RFID device, wherein the higher transmission power is based on the first backscattered signal.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: A second signal is output for transmission to the RFID device, the second signal being configured to indicate a particular beam index for future backscatter signals.

21. The device of claim 18, wherein the beamforming capability is indicative of at least one antenna element of a plurality of antenna elements or a plurality of antenna panels associated with the device, wherein each of the antenna panels comprises at least one antenna element.

22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the beamforming capability comprises an antenna panel report of the apparatus.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the antenna panel report includes an indication of a first antenna panel configured for a first beamforming capability and a second antenna panel configured for a second beamforming capability.

24. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the beamforming capabilities comprise recommended beamforming capabilities for future backscatter signals, and wherein the recommended beamforming capabilities are based on one or more communication metrics of the RFID device.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the one or more communication metrics comprise a power state of the apparatus or a measured energy level of the first signal.

26. The apparatus according to claim 18, further comprising: A transceiver, the transceiver being configured to: sending the first signal; as well as The first backscatter signal is received, wherein the apparatus is configured as an RFID reader.

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