Adaptive beamforming based on JPTA frequency selective system for intelligent repeaters

Abstract

The smart repeater includes a transceiver configured to receive a reference signal, receive subcarrier allocations for a plurality of user equipments (UEs) from a base station (BS), receive downlink (DL) beams associated with the plurality of UEs from the BS, and retransmit the DL beams. The smart repeater also includes a processor operably coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to determine a beam separation configuration for the DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation, and cause the transceiver to retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration. In order to retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, the transceiver is further configured to generate a frequency-dependent beam for each of the plurality of UEs and to direct the frequency-dependent beam for each of the plurality of UEs to the UE associated with the frequency-dependent beam.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wireless networks and more particularly to adaptive beamforming based on a joint phase-time array frequency selective system for smart repeaters. Background Art

[0002] The fifth generation (5G) mobile communication technology defines a wide frequency band, making high transmission rates and new services possible, and can be realized not only in "sub-6 GHz" frequency bands such as 3.5 GHz, but also in "higher than 6 GHz" frequency bands called millimeter waves (mmWave) including 28 GHz and 39 GHz. In addition, the implementation of the sixth generation (6G) mobile communication technology (called a super 5G system) in the terahertz frequency band (e.g., 95 GHz to 3 THz frequency band) has been considered to achieve a transmission rate fifty times faster than that of 5G mobile communication technology and an ultra-low latency one-tenth of that of 5G mobile communication technology.

[0003] At the beginning of the development of 5G mobile communication technology, in order to support services and meet performance requirements related to enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), and massive machine type communication (mMTC), standardization has been underway on various technologies: beamforming and massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) for mitigating radio wave path loss and increasing radio wave transmission distance in millimeter waves, dynamic operation of parameter sets (e.g., operating multiple subcarrier spacings) and time slot formats to support efficient use of millimeter wave resources, initial access technology for supporting multi-beam transmission and broadband, definition and operation of bandwidth parts (BWPs), new channel coding methods (such as low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes for large-volume data transmission and polar codes for highly reliable transmission of control information), L2 preprocessing, and network slicing for providing dedicated networks dedicated to specific services.

[0004] Currently, in view of the services that 5G mobile communication technology is to support, discussions are ongoing on improvements and performance enhancements of initial 5G mobile communication technology, and there is already physical layer standardization on various technologies such as: Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) for assisting driving determination of autonomous vehicles based on information about the location and status of the vehicle sent by the vehicle and for enhancing user convenience, New Radio Unlicensed (NR-U) for system operation intended to comply with various regulatory-related requirements in unlicensed bands, NR UE power saving, Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) as UE-satellite direct communication for providing coverage in areas where communication with terrestrial networks is unavailable, and positioning.

[0005] In addition, in terms of air interface architecture / protocol, standardization is being conducted on various technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) for supporting new services through interworking and integration with other industries, Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) for providing nodes for network service area expansion by supporting wireless backhaul links and access links in an integrated manner, mobility enhancement including conditional handover and dual active protocol stack (DAPS) handover, and two-step random access (NR's 2-step RACH) for simplifying the random access procedure. In terms of system architecture / services, standardization is also being conducted on various technologies such as the 5G baseline architecture (e.g., service-based architecture or service-based interface) for combining network function virtualization (NFV) and software defined network (SDN) technologies, and mobile edge computing (MEC) for receiving services based on UE location.

[0006] As 5G mobile communication systems are commercialized, the number of connected devices, which has been growing exponentially, will be connected to the communication network, and it is therefore expected that enhanced functions and performance of the 5G mobile communication systems and integrated operations of the connected devices will be necessary. To this end, new research related to the following technologies is planned: extended reality (XR) for effectively supporting augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), etc., 5G performance improvement and complexity reduction by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), AI service support, metaverse service support, and drone communication.

[0007] Furthermore, such development of 5G mobile communication systems will serve as a basis not only for developing new waveforms for providing coverage in the terahertz band for 6G mobile communication technology, multi-antenna transmission technologies (such as full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and massive antennas), metamaterial-based lenses and antennas for improving coverage of terahertz band signals, high-dimensional spatial multiplexing technologies using orbital angular momentum (OAM), and reconfigurable smart surfaces (RIS), but also for developing full-duplex technologies for improving frequency efficiency and improving system networks for 6G mobile communication technology, AI-based communication technologies for achieving system optimization by utilizing satellites and AI from the design stage and internalizing end-to-end AI support functions, and next-generation distributed computing technologies for achieving services with a complexity level that exceeds the limits of UE operating capabilities by utilizing ultra-high performance communication and computing resources.

[0008] Millimeter wave (mmWave) is a key technology in 5G cellular systems as it promises high data rates due to the considerable available bandwidth. However, at mmWave and higher frequencies, the signal suffers from severe attenuation and path loss. Blockage leads to system coverage limitations due to the sensitivity of the signal to obstacles (from buildings, people, tables, walls, doors, etc.). To address the coverage limitations, high-gain antennas with narrow beamforming capabilities have been studied, designed and deployed. These antenna arrays are equipped with high transmit power capabilities. However, this approach is not a sustainable solution for non-line-of-sight (NLoS) conditions. Therefore, cell densification and additional network nodes are expected to enhance the performance of the entire system. Additional network nodes include, but are not limited to, reconfigurable smart surfaces (RIS), smart repeaters, active holographic surfaces, integrated active and backhaul nodes, etc. It is important to recognize that it may not always be feasible or economically viable to install many nodes in an area due to hardware limitations or high costs of power or new site acquisition. This does motivate finding new ways to use these nodes to improve system performance. Summary of the invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] The present disclosure provides a method and apparatus for adaptive beamforming based on a Joint Phase-Time Array (JPTA) frequency selective system for a smart repeater.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] In one embodiment, a smart repeater is provided. The smart repeater includes a transceiver configured to receive a reference signal, receive subcarrier allocations for multiple user equipments (UEs) from a base station (BS), receive downlink (DL) beams associated with the multiple UEs from the BS, and retransmit the DL beams. The smart repeater also includes a processor operably coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to determine a beam separation configuration of the DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation, and to cause the transceiver to retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration. In order to retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, the transceiver is also configured to generate a frequency dependent beam for each of the multiple UEs, and direct the frequency dependent beam for each of the multiple UEs to the UE associated with the frequency dependent beam.

[0013] In another embodiment, a method for operating a smart repeater is provided. The method includes receiving a reference signal, receiving a subcarrier allocation for a plurality of user equipments UEs from a BS, receiving DL beams associated with the plurality of UEs from the BS, retransmitting the DL beam, and determining a beam separation configuration for the DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation. Retransmitting the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration includes generating a frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs, and directing the frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs toward the UE associated with the frequency-correlated beam.

[0014] In yet another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided. The non-transitory computer-readable medium embodies a computer program including program code, which, when executed by a processor of a device, causes the device to receive a reference signal, receive a subcarrier allocation for a plurality of UEs from a BS, receive a DL beam associated with the plurality of UEs from the BS, retransmit the DL beam, determine a beam separation configuration for the DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation, and retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration. To retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, the computer program also includes program code, which, when executed by the processor of the device, causes the device to generate a frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs, and direct the frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs toward the UE associated with the frequency-correlated beam.

[0015] Other technical features may be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, descriptions and claims.

[0016] Before the following detailed description, it may be advantageous to set forth the definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term "coupling" and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, whether or not these elements are in physical contact with each other. The terms "send", "receive", "communication" and their derivatives cover both direct and indirect communication. The terms "include" and "comprise" and their derivatives refer to including but not limited to. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase "associated with..." and its derivatives mean including, included in, interconnected with, included in, included in, connected to, or connected with, coupled to, or coupled with, can communicate with, collaborate with, interweave, juxtapose, be close to, bound to, or bound with, have, have the property of, have a relationship with, or have a relationship with. The term "controller" means any device, system, or part thereof that controls at least one operation. Such a controller can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software and / or firmware. The functions associated with any particular controller can be centralized or distributed, whether local or remote. The phrase "at least one of" when used with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and only one of the items in the list may be required. For example, at least one of A, B, and C includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.

[0017] In addition, the various functions described below may be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is formed by a computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data or parts thereof suitable for implementation in a suitable computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" includes any type of medium that can be accessed by a computer, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard drive, a compact disk (CD), a digital video disk (DVD) or any other type of memory. "Non-transitory" computer-readable media do not include wired, wireless, optical or other communication links that transmit temporary electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media include media in which data can be permanently stored and media in which data can be stored and overwritten later, such as rewritable optical disks or erasable memory devices.

[0018] Definitions for certain other words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that in many, if not most, instances, such definitions apply to prior, as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 2 An example gNB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 3 An example UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 4 An example wireless network including a smart repeater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 5 An example smart repeater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0025] Figure 6 An example of a smart repeater using JPTA technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] Figure 7 A method for allocating subcarriers to a UE when the TX and RX JPTA arrays of a smart repeater are assumed to be calibrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 8 A method for allocating subcarriers to a UE when the TX and RX JPTA arrays of a smart repeater are not calibrated with each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] Fig.9A An example of beam sway according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0029] Fig. 9B An example of beam panning according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0030] Fig.10 An example of a multi-intelligent repeater deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0031] Fig.11 An example method of adaptive beamforming based on a joint phase-time array frequency selective system for a smart repeater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Discussed below Figure 1 to Figure 1 8 and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present disclosure in this patent document are only for illustration and should not be interpreted in any way to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged wireless communication system.

[0033] In order to meet the increased demand for wireless data services since the deployment of 4G communication systems and to realize various vertical applications, 5G / NR communication systems have been developed and are currently being deployed. 5G / NR communication systems are considered to be implemented in high-frequency (millimeter wave) bands (e.g., 28 GHz or 60 GHz bands) to achieve high data rates, or in low-frequency bands (such as 6 GHz) to achieve robust coverage and mobility support. In order to reduce the propagation loss of radio waves and increase the transmission distance, beamforming, massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), full-dimensional MIMO, array antennas, analog beamforming, and massive antenna technology are discussed in 5G / NR communication systems.

[0034] In addition, in the 5G / NR communication system, development of system network improvements is underway based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, cooperative communications, coordinated multi-point (CoMP), receiving-side interference cancellation, etc.

[0035] The discussion of 5G systems and frequency bands associated therewith is for reference, as certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in 5G systems. However, the present disclosure is not limited to 5G systems or frequency bands associated therewith, and embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with any frequency band. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may also be applied to 5G communication systems, 6G, or even later versions that may use terahertz (THz) frequency bands.

[0036] The following Figure 1-Figure 3 Various embodiments are described that are implemented in a wireless communication system and using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) or Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) communication techniques. Figure 1-Figure 3 The description is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which different embodiments may be implemented. Different embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in any suitably arranged communications system.

[0037] Figure 1 An example wireless network 100 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1The embodiment of the wireless network 100 shown is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless network includes gNB 101 (e.g., base station BS), gNB 102, and gNB 103. gNB 101 communicates with gNB 102 and gNB 103. gNB 101 also communicates with at least one network 130 (such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network).

[0039] gNB 102 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a first plurality of user equipment (UE) within coverage area 120 of gNB 102. The first plurality of UEs includes UE 111, which may be located in a small business; UE 112, which may be located in an enterprise; UE 113, which may be a WiFi hotspot; UE 114, which may be located in a first residence; UE 115, which may be located in a second residence; and UE 116, which may be a mobile device such as a cellular phone, a wireless laptop, a wireless PDA, etc. gNB 103 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a second plurality of UEs within coverage area 125 of gNB 103. The second plurality of UEs includes UE 115 and UE 116. In some embodiments, one or more of gNBs 101-103 may communicate with each other and with UEs 111-116 using 5G / NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), WiMAX, WiFi, or other wireless communication technologies.

[0040] Depending on the network type, the term "base station" or "BS" may refer to any component (or set of components) configured to provide wireless access to a network, such as a transmission point (TP), a transmission-reception point (TRP), an enhanced base station (eNodeB or eNB), a 5G / NR base station (gNB), a macro cell, a femto cell, a WiFi access point (AP), or other wirelessly enabled devices. The base station may provide wireless access according to one or more wireless communication protocols (e.g., 5G / NR Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE (LTE-A), High Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Wi-Fi 802.11a / b / g / n / ac, etc.). For convenience, the terms "BS" and "TRP" are used interchangeably in this patent document to refer to network infrastructure components that provide wireless access to remote terminals. In addition, depending on the network type, the term "user equipment" or "UE" may refer to any component, such as a "mobile station", "subscriber station", "remote terminal", "wireless terminal", "reception point", or "user equipment". For convenience, the terms "user equipment" and "UE" are used in this patent document to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses a BS, whether the UE is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or is generally considered a fixed device (such as a desktop computer or vending machine).

[0041] The dashed lines illustrate the approximate extents of coverage areas 120 and 125, which are shown as approximately circular for purposes of illustration and explanation only. It should be clearly understood that coverage areas associated with gNBs, such as coverage areas 120 and 125, may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending on the configuration of the gNB and variations in the radio environment associated with natural and man-made obstacles.

[0042] As described in more detail below, one or more of the UEs 111-116 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for adaptive beamforming based on a JPTA frequency selective system for smart repeaters. In certain embodiments, one or more of the gNBs 101-103 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof to support adaptive beamforming based on a JPTA frequency selective system for smart repeaters in a wireless communication system.

[0043] Wireless network 100 may include one or more network entities (not shown). A network entity may represent one or more local computing resources, remote computing resources, cluster computing resources, components that act as a single pool of seamless computing resources, cloud-based computing resources, virtualized computing resources, etc. A network entity may be composed of Figure 1The gNB 102 may be integrated into another device and the device may be referred to as a network entity. For example, the network entity may be integrated into the gNB 102, thereby making the gNB a network entity. For example, the gNB 102 may include hardware that performs the functions of the network entity, may include virtual resources that perform the functions of the network entity, may include software that performs the functions of the network entity, and / or the gNB 102 may perform the functions of the network entity as an inherent feature of the gNB 102.

[0044] In some cases, a network entity may be implemented across multiple devices. For example, a network entity may be implemented across gNB 102 and gNB 103 such that gNB 102 and gNB 103 form a single network entity.

[0045] although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network is shown, but Figure 1 Various changes may be made. For example, the wireless network may include any number of gNBs and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. In addition, gNB 101 may communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide those UEs with wireless broadband access to network 130. Similarly, each gNB 102-103 may communicate directly with network 130 and provide the UEs with direct wireless broadband access to network 130. In addition, gNBs 101, 102, and / or 103 may provide access to other or additional external networks, such as an external telephone network or other type of data network.

[0046] Figure 2 An example gNB 102 is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The embodiment of the gNB 102 shown in FIG. is for illustration only, and Figure 1 gNBs 101 and 103 may have the same or similar configurations. However, gNBs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 2 The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of gNB.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the gNB 102 includes multiple antennas 205a-205n, multiple transceivers 210a-210n, a controller / processor 225, a memory 230, and a backhaul or network interface 235.

[0048] The transceivers 210a-210n receive incoming RF signals from the antennas 205a-205n, such as signals transmitted by UEs in the network 100. The transceivers 210a-210n downconvert the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are processed by the controller / processor 225 and / or receive (RX) processing circuits in the transceivers 210a-210n, which generate processed baseband signals by filtering, decoding and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. The controller / processor 225 may further process the baseband signals.

[0049] The controller / processor 225 and / or transmit (TX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 210a-210n receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the controller / processor 225. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The transceivers 210a-210n up-convert the baseband or IF signal to an RF signal that is transmitted via the antennas 205a-205n.

[0050] The controller / processor 225 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the gNB 102. For example, the controller / processor 225 may control the reception of UL channel signals and the transmission of DL channel signals by the transceivers 210a-210n in accordance with well-known principles. The controller / processor 225 may also support additional functionality, such as more advanced wireless communication functionality. For example, the controller / processor 225 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, in which outgoing / incoming signals from / to multiple antennas 205a-205n are weighted differently to effectively direct the outgoing signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor 225 may support any of a variety of other functions in the gNB 102.

[0051] The controller / processor 225 is also capable of executing programs and other processes resident in the memory 230, such as the OS, and processes such as adaptive beamforming based on the JPTA frequency selective system to support smart repeaters, as discussed in more detail below. The controller / processor 225 can move data into or out of the memory 230 as required by the executed process.

[0052] The controller / processor 225 is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface 235. The backhaul or network interface 235 allows the gNB 102 to communicate with other devices or systems over a backhaul connection or over a network. The interface 235 may support communication over any suitable wired or wireless connection. For example, when the gNB 102 is implemented as part of a cellular communication system (such as a cellular communication system supporting 5G / NR, LTE, or LTE-A), the interface 235 may allow the gNB 102 to communicate with other gNBs over a wired or wireless backhaul connection. When the gNB 102 is implemented as an access point, the interface 235 may allow the gNB 102 to communicate over a wired or wireless local area network or over a wired or wireless connection to a larger network (such as the Internet). The interface 235 includes any suitable structure that supports communication over a wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet or a transceiver.

[0053] Memory 230 is coupled to controller / processor 225. A portion of memory 230 may include RAM, and another portion of memory 230 may include flash memory or other ROM.

[0054] although Figure 2 An example of a gNB 102 is shown, but the Figure 2 For example, gNB 102 may include any number of Figure 2 Each component shown in . In addition, Figure 2 The various components in may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components may be added according to specific needs.

[0055] Figure 3 An example UE 116 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The embodiment of UE 116 shown in FIG. 1 is for illustration only, and Figure 1 UEs 111-115 may have the same or similar configurations. However, UEs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 3 The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a UE.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, UE 116 includes antenna 305, transceiver 310, and microphone 320. UE 116 also includes speaker 330, processor 340, input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 345, input 350, display 355, and memory 360. Memory 360 includes operating system (OS) 361 and one or more applications 362.

[0057] The transceiver 310 receives incoming RF signals from the antenna 305 transmitted by the gNB of the network 100. The transceiver 310 downconverts the incoming RF signals to generate an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband signal. The IF or baseband signal is processed by the processor 340 and / or the RX processing circuit in the transceiver 310, which generates a processed baseband signal by filtering, decoding and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signal. The RX processing circuit sends the processed baseband signal to the speaker 330 (such as for voice data) or is processed by the processor 340 (such as for web browsing data).

[0058] The processor 340 and / or the TX processing circuit in the transceiver 310 receives analog or digital voice data from the microphone 320 or other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the processor 340. The TX processing circuit encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The transceiver 310 up-converts the baseband or IF signal to an RF signal that is transmitted via the antenna 305.

[0059] The processor 340 may include one or more processors or other processing devices and execute the OS 361 stored in the memory 360 to control the overall operation of the UE 116. For example, the processor 340 may control the transceiver 310 to receive DL channel signals and transmit UL channel signals according to well-known principles. In some embodiments, the processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0060] The processor 340 is also capable of executing other processes and programs resident in the memory 360, such as processes for adaptive beamforming based on the JPTA frequency selective system for smart repeaters, as discussed in more detail below. The processor 340 can move data into or out of the memory 360 as needed for the executed process. In some embodiments, the processor 340 is configured to execute the application 362 based on the OS 361 or in response to a signal received from the gNB or operator. The processor 340 is also coupled to the I / O interface 345, which provides the UE 116 with the ability to connect to other devices such as laptops and handheld computers. The I / O interface 345 is the communication path between these accessories and the processor 340.

[0061] Processor 340 is also coupled to input 350 including, for example, a touch screen, a keyboard, etc., and display 355. An operator of UE 116 may enter data into UE 116 using input 350. Display 355 may be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or other display capable of presenting rendered text and / or at least limited graphics, such as from a website.

[0062] Memory 360 is coupled to processor 340. A portion of memory 360 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of memory 360 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0063] although Figure 3 An example of UE 116 is shown, but the Figure 3 Make various changes. For example, Figure 3 The various components in may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components may be added as required. As a specific example, processor 340 may be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). In another example, transceiver 310 may include any number of transceivers and signal processing chains, and may be connected to any number of antennas. In addition, although Figure 3 The UE 116 is shown configured as a mobile phone or smart phone, but the UE may be configured to operate as other types of mobile or stationary devices.

[0064] Such as Figure 1 Wireless networks of gNBs can utilize millimeter wave (mmWave) technology or other even higher frequency technologies (e.g., in the THz range) to provide high data rates. However, at mmWave frequencies, signals suffer from severe attenuation and path loss. Blockages lead to system coverage limitations due to the sensitivity of signals to obstacles (from buildings, people, tables, walls, doors, etc.). To address coverage limitations, smart repeaters can be utilized to improve coverage in areas with NLoS conditions for gNBs.

[0065] Smart repeaters are full-duplex nodes that can amplify and forward signals to intended receivers. They do not provide decoding and encoding capabilities, but are easy to deploy and low cost. Smart repeaters can amplify both signals and noise, which leads to an increase in interference. When deployed as a network node, smart repeaters use control information from the gNB to enhance their beamforming capabilities.

[0066] In the present disclosure, smart repeaters are used to assist in relaying signals with poor or NLoS conditions (e.g., from outdoor to indoor scenarios) at mmWave frequencies. Instead of having many nodes in indoor scenarios, joint phase-time array (JPTA) technology can be used to assist smart repeaters in establishing adaptive beamforming. This capability leads to improved indoor communication systems where blocking and signal attenuation are major issues. The collectivity of these technologies enables adaptive beamforming capabilities. JPTA generates frequency-dependent analog beams and is a type of hybrid beamforming. These frequency-dependent differences are achieved using true-time delay elements with frequency-dependent phase response.

[0067] Figure 4 An example wireless network 400 including smart repeaters is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 The embodiment of wireless network 400 shown is for illustration only. Other embodiments of wireless network 400 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0068] like Figure 4 As shown, the wireless network includes a gNB 401 (e.g., a base station, BS), a gNB 402, and a smart repeater (SR) 403. The gNB 401 communicates with the gNB 402. The gNB 401 also communicates with at least one network 430 (such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network).

[0069] The gNB 402 provides wireless broadband access to a network 430 for a plurality of user equipments (UEs) within a coverage area 420 of the gNB 402. The plurality of UEs include UEs 411, 412, 413, and 414, which may be located in a small business with a poor line of site to the gNB 402. To improve communication with the UEs 411-414, a smart repeater 403 may be located in the small business with the UEs 411-414 and may relay signals between the gNB 402 and the UEs 411-414. In some embodiments, one or more of the gNBs 401-402 and the smart repeater 403 may communicate with each other and with the UEs 411-414 using 5G / NR, long term evolution (LTE), long term evolution-advanced (LTE-A), WiMAX, WiFi, or other wireless communication technologies.

[0070] The dashed line illustrates the approximate extent of coverage area 420, which is shown as approximately circular for purposes of illustration and explanation only. It should be clearly understood that a coverage area associated with a gNB, such as coverage area 420, may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending on the configuration of the gNB and variations in the radio environment associated with natural and man-made obstacles.

[0071] Similar to the previous Figure 1 In some embodiments, one or more of the gNBs 401-402 and the smart repeater 402 include circuits, programming, or a combination thereof to support adaptive beamforming based on a JPTA frequency selective system for smart repeaters in a wireless communication system, similar to that previously described.

[0072] although Figure 4 An example of a wireless network is shown, but Figure 4 Various changes may be made. For example, the wireless network may include any number of gNBs, any number of smart repeaters, and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. In addition, gNB 401 may communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide those UEs with wireless broadband access to network 430. Similarly, gNB 402 may communicate directly with network 430 and provide UEs with direct wireless broadband access to network 430. In addition, gNBs 401 and 402 may provide access to other or additional external networks, such as an external telephone network or other type of data network.

[0073] Figure 5 An example smart repeater 403 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 The embodiment of the smart repeater 403 shown is for illustration only, and other smart repeaters may have the same or similar configurations. However, smart repeaters have a variety of configurations, and Figure 5 The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a smart repeater.

[0074] like Figure 5 As shown, the smart repeater 403 includes a plurality of antennas 505a - 505n , a plurality of transceivers 510a - 510n , a controller / processor 525 , and a memory 530 .

[0075] The transceivers 510a-510n receive incoming RF signals from the antennas 505a-505n, such as signals transmitted by the gNB 402 and the UEs in the network 400. The transceivers 510a-510n downconvert the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are processed by the controller / processor 525 and / or the receive (RX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 510a-510n, which generates processed baseband signals by filtering and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. The controller / processor 525 may further process the baseband signals.

[0076] The controller / processor 525 and / or transmit (TX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 510a-510n receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the controller / processor 525. The TX processing circuitry multiplexes and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The transceivers 510a-510n up-convert the baseband or IF signal to an RF signal that is transmitted via the antennas 505a-505n.

[0077] The controller / processor 525 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the smart repeater 403. For example, the controller / processor 525 may control the transceivers 510a-510n to receive UL channel signals and send DL channel signals according to well-known principles. The controller / processor 525 may also support additional functions, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, the controller / processor 525 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, in which outgoing / incoming signals from / to multiple antennas 505a-505n are weighted differently to effectively guide the outgoing signals in the desired direction. The controller / processor 525 may support any of a variety of other functions in the smart repeater 403.

[0078] The controller / processor 525 is also capable of executing programs and other processes resident in the memory 530, such as the OS, and processes such as adaptive beamforming based on the JPTA frequency selective system to support smart repeaters, as discussed in more detail below. The controller / processor 525 can move data into or out of the memory 530 as required by the executed process.

[0079] Memory 530 is coupled to controller / processor 525. A portion of memory 530 may include RAM, and another portion of memory 530 may include flash memory or other ROM.

[0080] although Figure 5 An example of a smart repeater 403 is shown, but the Figure 5For example, the smart repeater 403 may include any number of Figure 5 Each component shown in . In addition, Figure 5 The various components in may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components may be added according to specific needs.

[0081] In one embodiment, a smart repeater (such as Figure 4 The smart repeater 403) includes JPTA technology. JPTA assists the smart repeater in establishing frequency-dependent wide beams. These wide beams are directed toward user equipment (UE), thus serving the UE in different directions without inter-UE interference. These UEs will have a specific number of subcarriers. JPTA creates these frequency-dependent changes using true time delay (TTD) elements. Unlike switches and phase shifters, TTD elements can implement frequency-dependent phase shifts that undergo different transformations. Therefore, the analog beam shape created by JPTA can vary with the frequency of the signal, which is better than a frequency-flat analog beam.

[0082] In one embodiment, the smart repeater includes JPTA technology that generates frequency-dependent beams by using true time-delay elements. In one embodiment, the smart repeater includes transmit (TX) and receive (RX) JPTA arrays to achieve frequency selective beamforming toward the UE. In one embodiment, the smart repeater includes a phased array to beamform signals toward the base station. In one embodiment, the smart repeater uses JPTA technology to beamform signals toward the base station.

[0083] In one embodiment, it is assumed that the TX and RX JPTA arrays are calibrated. In this embodiment, the UE sounds the channel on the uplink stream (eg, using a sounding reference signal (SRS)). By reciprocity, the downlink channel is the same.

[0084] In one embodiment, the TX and RX JPTA arrays are not calibrated with each other. In this embodiment, the gNB sounds the downlink (DL) (e.g., using a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS)), and the UE sounds the uplink (UL).

[0085] Figure 6 An example 600 of a smart repeater 602 utilizing JPTA technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 The embodiment of the smart repeater 602 is for illustration only. Different embodiments of the smart repeater 602 may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0086] exist Figure 6In the example of , the smart repeater 602 includes TX and RX JPTA arrays assumed to be calibrated. The smart repeater 602 is located in a room (indoors) with UEs 603-607. The gNB 601 located outside the room (outdoors) can assign different subcarriers to each of the UEs 603-607 based on their channel conditions. For example, the UEs 603-607 can detect the corresponding channels, and therefore, the gNB 601 can evaluate the channel conditions and start allocating subcarriers to the intended UEs. The smart repeater 602 separates beams on different frequencies in different directions, i.e., frequency-dependent beamforming. As a result of the frequency-dependent beamforming capability provided by the JPTA, the smart repeater implements adaptive beamforming to reach the intended UE.

[0087] although Figure 6 An example 600 of a smart repeater 602 is shown, but may be used for Figure 6 Various changes may be made. For example, the number of UEs may be changed, the shape of the beam may be changed, etc. according to specific needs.

[0088] Figure 7 A method 700 for allocating subcarriers to a UE when the TX and RX JPTA arrays of a smart repeater are assumed to be calibrated according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 The embodiments of the methods shown in are for illustration only. Figure 7 One or more of the components shown in the can be implemented in a dedicated circuit configured to perform the functions, or one or more of the components can be implemented by one or more processors that execute instructions to perform the functions. Other embodiments of allocating subcarriers can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, method 700 starts at step 710. At step 710, the UE probes the channel and the location of the UE is sent through the smart repeater. At step 720, the gNB evaluates the channel conditions and allocates subcarriers to the intended UE. At step 730, the smart repeater separates beams on different frequencies in different directions (i.e., frequency-dependent beamforming). Finally, at step 740, adaptive beamforming capabilities are implemented at the smart repeater to reach the intended UE.

[0090] although Figure 7 An example of a method 700 for allocating subcarriers to a UE is shown, but may be used for Figure 7 For example, although shown as a series of steps, Figure 7 The various steps in may overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur any number of times.

[0091] Figure 8 A method 800 for allocating subcarriers to a UE when the TX and RX JPTA arrays of a smart repeater are not calibrated with each other according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8 The embodiments of the methods shown in are for illustration only. Figure 8 One or more of the components shown in the can be implemented in a dedicated circuit configured to perform the functions, or one or more of the components can be implemented by one or more processors that execute instructions to perform the functions. Other embodiments of allocating subcarriers can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0092] like Figure 8 As shown, method 800 begins at step 810. At step 810, the gNB detects the DL. At step 820, the UE detects the UL and the location of the UE is sent through the smart repeater. At step 830, the gNB evaluates the channel conditions and allocates subcarriers to the intended UE. At step 840, the smart repeater separates beams on different frequencies in different directions (i.e., frequency-dependent beamforming). Finally, at step 850, adaptive beamforming capabilities are implemented at the smart repeater to reach the intended UE.

[0093] although Figure 8 An example of a method 800 for allocating subcarriers to a UE is shown, but may be used for Figure 8 For example, although shown as a series of steps, Figure 8 The steps in can overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur any number of times.

[0094] The smart repeater JPTA array can form a frequency selective beam that swings on a sub-sector (e.g., 45 degrees of a 90-degree sector). These arrays can then steer the beam to cover the entire sector at multiple time opportunities. The smart repeater JPTA array can adapt the swing of the beam according to the UE angle distribution / position. For example, if the UE is concentrated in a small angle / sector, the repeater can form a beam with a narrow swing. In this case, instead of having a very narrow bandwidth, a larger BW can be assigned to each UE. On the other hand, if the UE is widely distributed, the repeater can form a beam with a large swing, and a narrow BW is assigned to each UE. This process can be done in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the repeater can receive information from the network to adapt the beam swing. In one embodiment, the repeater can obtain location information from the UE and then use this information to adapt the beam.

[0095] Figure 9A-9B Examples 900 and 920 of beam panning according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 9A-9B The embodiment of beam panning is for illustration only. Different embodiments of beam panning may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0096] exist Figure 9A-9B In the example, the smart repeater 902 receives information from the gNB 901 to adapt the beam swing (e.g., beam swing adaptation information).

[0097] Fig.9A An example of narrow beam panning is illustrated, where UEs 903, 904, and 905 are concentrated in a particular sector. Fig.9A In the example above, due to the narrower beam swing, Fig. 9B In the example of FIG. 1 , a larger bandwidth is allocated to UE 903-905. This is due to Fig.9A The beams transmitted from the smart repeater 902 to the UEs 903-905 are shown as Fig. 9B Medium to thicker appearance.

[0098] Fig. 9B A larger beam swing is shown, where UEs 903, 904, and 905 are not concentrated in a particular sector. Fig. 9B In the example above, due to the larger beam swing, Fig.9A In the example of FIG. 1 , a narrower bandwidth is allocated to UE 903-905. This is caused by Fig. 9B The beams transmitted from the smart repeater 902 to the UEs 903-905 are shown as Fig.9A Medium thinner appearance.

[0099] Although Figure 9A-9B Examples of beam panning 900 and 920 are shown, but may be Figure 9A-9B Various changes may be made. For example, the number of UEs may be changed, the shape of the beam may be changed, etc. according to specific needs.

[0100] To reduce the overhead of constant channel sounding, a prediction engine can be used within the smart repeater to predict the area where the UE is most likely to roam and the number of subcarriers required for each UE. For example, artificial intelligence integrated into the smart repeater can collect information about the frequent locations and numbers of subcarriers that are typically assigned to a specific UE. This information can then be used by the gNB to predict how many subcarriers need to be assigned to each UE, thereby reducing the channel sounding overhead.

[0101] In some environments, such as indoor spaces with partition walls, multiple rooms within a building, etc., it may be difficult for the UE to achieve a good line of sight with a smart repeater at certain locations within the environment. In these cases, it may be beneficial to employ multiple smart repeaters within the same environment. For example, as the UE roams through the environment, it may be able to have a line of sight with a first repeater at some locations and a line of sight with a second repeater at other locations, thereby improving the performance of the UE. In some instances, the UE may have a good line of sight with multiple repeaters. Depending on the situation, the UE may communicate with a single repeater, or various techniques may be utilized to communicate with multiple repeaters to improve performance.

[0102] Fig.10 An example 1000 of a multi-intelligent repeater deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.10 The example 1000 is for illustration only. Different embodiments of multi-intelligent repeater deployment may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0103] exist Fig.10 In the example of , smart repeaters 1002 and 1003 include TX and RX JPTA arrays. Smart repeater 1002 is located at the far end of a building (indoors) behind two partition walls with UEs 1004, 1005, 1007, and 1008. Smart repeater 1003 is located at the near end of a building behind two partition walls with UEs 1009, 1010, and 1011. UE 1006 is located between the partition walls and has a clear line of sight to both smart repeaters 1002 and 1003. gNB 1001, which is located outside the building (outdoors), can assign different subcarriers to each of UEs 1004-1011 based on their channel conditions. For example, UEs 1004-1011 can detect the corresponding channels, and therefore, gNB 1001 can evaluate the channel conditions and start allocating subcarriers to the intended UEs. Smart repeaters 1002 and 1003 separate corresponding beams on different frequencies in different directions, ie, frequency dependent beamforming. As a result of the frequency dependent beamforming capability provided by JPTA, the smart repeaters implement adaptive beamforming to reach the intended UE.

[0104] Although Fig.10 An example 1000 of a multi-intelligent repeater deployment is shown, but Fig.10 Various changes can be made. For example, according to specific needs, the number of UEs can be changed, the number of smart repeaters can be changed, the number of gNBs can be changed, the shape of the beam can be changed, etc.

[0105] To optimize repeater deployment, a prediction engine may be used within a smart repeater to identify ideal placement of smart repeaters, identify areas with poor coverage that may benefit from additional smart repeaters, identify areas with redundant coverage where placement of multiple smart repeaters may be better optimized, etc. For example, artificial intelligence integrated into a smart repeater may collect information related to UE performance, etc. to identify areas of poor or redundant coverage, and report recommended improvements, such as repositioning of one or more smart repeaters in the environment, adding or removing smart repeaters from the environment, etc.

[0106] Fig.11 A method 1100 of adaptive beamforming based on a joint phase-time array frequency selective system for a smart repeater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.11 The embodiments of the methods shown in are for illustration only. Fig.11 One or more of the components shown in the can be implemented in a dedicated circuit configured to perform the functions, or one or more of the components can be implemented by one or more processors that execute instructions to perform the functions. Other embodiments of adaptive beamforming can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0107] like Fig.11 As shown, method 1100 starts at step 1110. At step 1110, the smart repeater receives a reference signal. At step 1120, the smart repeater receives subcarrier allocations for multiple UEs from the BS. At step 1130, the smart repeater receives DL beams associated with multiple UEs from the BS. At step 1140, the smart repeater retransmits the DL beam. At step 1150, the smart repeater determines a beam separation configuration for the DL beam. The beam separation configuration may be based on the subcarrier allocation. Finally, at step 1160, the smart repeater retransmits the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration. Retransmitting the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration may include generating a frequency-correlated beam for each of the multiple UEs, and directing the frequency-correlated beam for each of the multiple UEs to the UE associated with the frequency-correlated beam.

[0108] although Fig.11 An example of a method 1100 for adaptive beamforming based on a joint phase-time array frequency selective system for a smart repeater is shown, but may be used for Fig.11 For example, although shown as a series of steps, Fig.11 The steps in can overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur any number of times.

[0109] Any of the above variant embodiments may be used independently or in combination with at least one other variant embodiment. The above flow charts illustrate example methods that can be implemented according to the principles of the present disclosure, and various changes may be made to the methods illustrated in the flow charts herein. For example, although shown as a series of steps, the various steps in each figure may overlap, occur in parallel, occur in different orders, or occur multiple times. In another example, a step may be omitted or replaced by another step.

[0110] Although the present disclosure has been described with exemplary embodiments, various changes and modifications may be suggested to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is intended to cover these changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims. The description in this application should not be interpreted as implying that any particular element, step or function is an essential element that must be included in the scope of the claims. The scope of the patent subject matter is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent repeater, comprising: The transceiver is configured as: receiving a reference signal; receiving subcarrier allocations for a plurality of user equipments (UEs) from a base station (BS); receiving, from a BS, downlink (DL) beams associated with the plurality of UEs; and Resend DL beam; A processor operatively coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to: determining a beam separation configuration of a DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation; and Make the transceiver resend the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, In order to resend the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, the transceiver is further configured to: generating a frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs; and The frequency-dependent beam of each UE in the plurality of UEs is directed toward a UE associated with the frequency-dependent beam.

2. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein: The transceiver includes a receive (RX) joint phase-time array (JPTA) and a transmit (TX) JPTA; The transceiver is further configured to receive a plurality of uplink (UL) beams from the plurality of UEs; and The processor is also configured to: determining a UL beam retransmission configuration; and causing the transceiver to retransmit the UL beam based on the UL beam retransmission configuration, In order to resend the UL beam based on the UL beam retransmission configuration, the transceiver is further configured to: generating a retransmission UL beam based on the plurality of UL beams; and Direct the retransmission UL beam towards the BS.

3. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein: The reference signal is at least one sounding reference signal sent by at least one UE among the plurality of UEs; and The processor is also configured to: determining a respective location of each UE in the plurality of UEs; and causing the transceiver to send the corresponding position of each UE in the plurality of UEs to the BS, The subcarrier allocation of each UE among the multiple UEs and the directionality of the frequency-related beam are based on the corresponding position of each UE among the multiple UEs.

4. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein: The reference signal is a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) sent by the BS; The transceiver is further configured to resend the CSI-RS to the plurality of UEs; and resending the CSI-RS based responses from the plurality of UEs to the BS, The subcarrier allocation is based on the CSI-RS based response.

5. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is also configured to: receiving beam swing adaptation information from a network entity; and The transceiver is caused to adapt the beam swing of the retransmitted DL beam based on the beam swing adaptation information.

6. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: determining a respective location of each UE in the plurality of UEs; and The transceiver is caused to adapt beam panning of the retransmitted DL beam based on the respective position of each of the plurality of UEs.

7. The intelligent repeater according to claim 1, wherein: The transceiver is configured to transmit and receive using millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies, and the transceiver includes a receive (RX) joint phase-time array (JPTA) and a transmit (TX) JPTA.

8. A method for operating a smart repeater, the method comprising: receiving a reference signal; receiving subcarrier allocations for a plurality of user equipments (UEs) from a base station (BS); receiving, from a BS, downlink (DL) beams associated with the plurality of UEs; Resend DL beam; determining a beam separation configuration of a DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation; and Retransmit DL beams according to the beam splitting configuration, Resending the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration includes: generating a frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs; and The frequency-dependent beam of each UE in the plurality of UEs is directed toward a UE associated with the frequency-dependent beam.

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: receiving a plurality of uplink (UL) beams from the plurality of UEs; Determine UL beam retransmission configuration; and Resend the UL beam based on the UL beam retransmission configuration, Resending the UL beam based on the UL beam retransmission configuration includes: generating a retransmission UL beam based on the plurality of UL beams; and Direct the retransmission UL beam to the BS, and Among them, the intelligent repeater includes a receiving (RX) joint phase-time array (JPTA) and a transmitting (TX) JPTA.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The reference signal is at least one sounding reference signal sent by at least one UE of the plurality of UEs, and the method further comprises: determining a respective location of each UE in the plurality of UEs; and sending a corresponding position of each UE in the plurality of UEs to a BS, The subcarrier allocation of each UE among the multiple UEs and the directionality of the frequency-related beam are based on the corresponding position of each UE among the multiple UEs.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The reference signal is a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) transmitted by the BS, and the method further includes: resending the CSI-RS to the plurality of UEs; and resending the CSI-RS based responses from the plurality of UEs to the BS, The subcarrier allocation is based on the CSI-RS based response.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: receiving beam swing adaptation information from a network entity; and The beam swing of the retransmitted DL beam is adapted based on the beam swing adaptation information.

13. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: determining a corresponding position of each UE in the plurality of UEs; and A beam panning of the retransmitted DL beam is adapted based on the respective location of each of the plurality of UEs.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The smart repeater is configured to transmit and receive using millimeter wave (mmWave) frequencies, and the smart repeater includes a receive (RX) joint phase-time array (JPTA) and a transmit (TX) JPTA.

15. A non-transitory computer readable medium embodying a computer program, the computer program comprising program code which, when executed by a processor of a device, causes the device to: receiving a reference signal; receiving subcarrier allocations for a plurality of user equipments (UEs) from a base station (BS); receiving, from a BS, downlink (DL) beams associated with the plurality of UEs; Resend DL beam; determining a beam separation configuration of a DL beam based on the subcarrier allocation; and Retransmit DL beams according to the beam splitting configuration, in, To retransmit the DL beam according to the beam separation configuration, the computer program further comprises program code which, when executed by a processor of the device, causes the device to: generating a frequency-correlated beam for each of the plurality of UEs; and The frequency-dependent beam of each UE in the plurality of UEs is directed toward a UE associated with the frequency-dependent beam.

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