Multi-transceiver point operation

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to multi-transceiver point operation. An apparatus comprises means for signaling to a network node during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure that a user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using a plurality of transceiver points. An apparatus comprising means for transmitting multi-transceiver point capability information for a network node prior to being connected to a user equipment; and receiving signaling during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment before being connected to the user equipment, the signaling indicating that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using the plurality of transceiver points.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Examples of the present disclosure relate to multi-transceiver point (mTRP) operation. Some examples relate to improved configurations for mTRP operation. Background Art

[0002] When a user equipment is connected to a cell, in some cases, it can switch from using a single transceiver point (TRP) to using multiple transceiver points. A transceiver point is also referred to as a transmission and reception point.

[0003] Multiple TRPs can be used by the user equipment for multi-reception and / or multi-transmission. In some examples, the user equipment can include multiple antennas and can use the TRPs simultaneously.

[0004] Switching to using multiple TRPs can be used, for example, to provide receive diversity at the user equipment or to increase the bandwidth at the user equipment (e.g., multiple-input multiple-output, carrier aggregation, dual connectivity).

[0005] However, such a switch may encounter some problems. For example, the current serving cell may not support the switch, or it may not be known whether the current serving cell supports the switch. Currently, the user equipment can confirm that the current serving cell can support the switch; however, this may introduce latency. Avoiding or reducing the latency when setting up multiple TRP operations for the user equipment would be desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to various (but not necessarily all) examples, examples as claimed in the appended claims are provided.

[0007] Although the above-described examples and optional features are described separately, it should be understood that they are all included within the present disclosure in all possible combinations and permutations. It should be understood that the various examples of the present disclosure can include any or all of the features described for other examples of the present disclosure, and vice versa. Additionally, it should be understood that any one or more or all of the features, in any combination, can be implemented as needed and appropriately by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions, included in an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions, and executable by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] Some examples will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1A Examples of the subject matter described herein are shown;

[0010] Figure 1B Examples of the subject matter described herein are shown;

[0011] Figure 2Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0012] Figure 3 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0013] Figure 4 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0014] Figure 5 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0015] Figure 6 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0016] Figure 7 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0017] Figure 8 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0018] Figure 9 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0019] Figure 10 Shows another example of the subject matter described herein.

[0020] These figures need not be drawn to scale. For clarity and conciseness, certain features and views in the figures may be shown schematically or enlarged in scale. For example, the dimensions of certain elements in the figures may be enlarged relative to other elements to aid in the explanation. Like reference numerals are used in the figures to represent like features. For clarity, not all reference numerals need be shown in all figures. Detailed Description

[0021] Figure 1A Shows an example of network 100, which includes a plurality of network nodes, including terminal node 110, access node 120, and one or more core nodes 129. Terminal node 110 and access node 120 communicate with each other. One or more core nodes 129 communicate with access node 120.

[0022] In this example, network 100 is a radio communication network, where at least some of terminal node 110 and access node 120 communicate with each other using radio wave transmission / reception.

[0023] In some examples, one or more core nodes 129 may communicate with each other. In some examples, one or more access nodes 120 may communicate with each other.

[0024] Network 100 may be a cellular network, including a plurality of cells 122, each cell 122 served by an access node 120. In this example, the interface between the terminal node 110 and the access node 120 defining the cell 122 is a wireless interface 124.

[0025] The access node 120 is a cellular radio transceiver. The terminal node 110 is a cellular radio transceiver.

[0026] In the example shown, the cellular network 100 is a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) network, where the terminal node 110 is a User Equipment (UE), and the access node 120 is a base station.

[0027] In the example shown, the network 100 is a Next Generation (or New Radio NR) Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). The NG-RAN includes gNodeB (gNB) 120, providing user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol terminations to the UE 110. The gNBs 120 are interconnected via X2 / Xn interfaces 126. The gNBs are also connected to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 129 via the N2 interface 128.

[0028] In other examples, the network 100 is an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN). The E-UTRAN includes E-UTRAN NodeB (eNB) 120, providing E-UTRA user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol terminations to the UE 110. The eNBs 120 are interconnected via the X2 interface 126. The eNBs are also connected to the Mobility Management Entity (MME) 129 via the S1 interface 128.

[0029] The UE 110 includes a mobile device. In the case of referring to a User Equipment (UE), the reference includes and encompasses a reference to a mobile device as much as possible.

[0030] Figure 1B An example of a network node 120 (access node) serving a cell 122 via one or more Transceiver Points (TRP) 125 is illustrated. The transceiver point 125 may also be referred to as a Transmission Reception Point. The TRP 125 is configured to transmit (downlink) to the UEs 110 in the cell and receive transmissions (uplink) made by the UEs 110 in the cell 122 via the wireless interface 124. The network node 120 may communicate with the UE 110 using the multi-transceiver point (mTRP) 125. The network node 120 may communicate with the UE 110 simultaneously using the multi-transceiver point (mTRP) 125.

[0031] The same TRP 125 of cell 122 uses synchronization signal (SS) blocks, which are referred to as SSBs. The SS block (SSB) includes synchronization signals - PSS (primary synchronization signal) and SSS (secondary synchronization signal).

[0032] The SSB is a cell - specific SS / physical broadcast channel (PBCH) block. In multi - transceiver point (mTRP) operation, the serving cell 122 can schedule user equipment (UE) 110 from two (or more) TRPs 125, thus providing better coverage, reliability, and / or data rate for at least some physical uplink and downlink channels (such as physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH), physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), physical uplink control channel (PUCCH)).

[0033] System information (SI) consists of a master information block (MIB) and one or more system information blocks (SIBs), which are divided into minimum SI and other SI. The minimum SI includes mandatory information required for initial access and information for obtaining any other SIB. The minimum SI includes: the master information block (MIB), which contains cell barred status information and basic cell physical layer information required for receiving additional system information, such as CORESET#0 configuration. The MIB on the physical broadcast channel (PBCH) provides parameters (such as CORESET#0 configuration) for the UE 110 to monitor the PDCCH to schedule the PDSCH carrying system information block 1 (SIB1). The MIB is broadcast periodically on the PBCH.

[0034] SIB1 defines the scheduling of other system information blocks and contains information required for initial access. SIB1 is also known as remaining minimum system information (RMSI) and is broadcast periodically on the downlink shared channel (DL - SCH) (such as physical downlink shared channel PDSCH) or sent to the UE in the radio resource control (RRC) connected state (RRC_CONNECTED) in a dedicated manner on the DL - SCH.

[0035] Other system information (SI) contains all SIBs not broadcast in the minimum SI.

[0036] The minimum requirement for the UE 110 to camp on a cell is to decode the MIB and SIB1.

[0037] Downlink control information (DCI) schedules physical resources for the downlink (physical downlink shared channel PDSCH) and the uplink (physical uplink shared channel PUSCH).

[0038] There are two different operating modes for scheduling mTRP PDSCH transmissions: single DCI (s-DCI) and multi-DCI (m-DCI). For both modes, the control of uplink and downlink operations can be accomplished through the physical layer and the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer within the configuration provided by the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer. In the single DCI mode, UE 110 is scheduled by the same DCI for the mTRP, while in the multi-DCI mode, UE 110 is scheduled by independent DCIs from each respective TRP 125. Additionally, s-DCI and m-DCI are independent of the UE's capabilities, which means that UE 110 can support any one or both of these capabilities depending on its implementation. Additionally, s-DCI and m-DCI are independent of the TRP's capabilities, which means that TRP 125 can support any one or both of these capabilities depending on its implementation.

[0039] The Random Access Procedure (RACH) is used for initial access, small data transmission in the inactive state, and the transition from RRC_Inactive to RRC_Connected, as well as beam failure recovery, connection reestablishment, handover, and cell addition.

[0040] The contention-based random access procedure includes:

[0041] i) UE110 sends a random access request [Msg 1] to network node 120

[0042] ii) Network node 120 sends a random access response [Msg 2] to UE 110

[0043] iii) UE110 sends a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection request, such as rrcSetupRequest [Msg 3 - scheduled transmission], to network node 120

[0044] iv) Network node 120 sends an RRC connection setup, such as rrcSetup [Msg4 - contention resolution], to UE 110

[0045] Multiple PRACH preamble formats for the random access request [Msg 1] are defined with one or more PRACH OFDM symbols, as well as different CPs and guard times. The PRACH preamble configuration is provided to UE 110 in the system information.

[0046] Initial access is initiated by UE 110 sending a random access request (Msg1) to network node 120. Initial access can be terminated by UE110 sending the first beam / CSI report to network node 120 after receiving the contention resolution message (Msg4, e.g., RRC connection setup).

[0047] Successive SSBs associated with different SSB indices can be transmitted by network node 120 using different beams for beam management. Initial beam detection is employed during cell detection and the RACH procedure.

[0048] During initial beam detection, network node 120 transmits multiple SSB sequences at intervals. Each SSB is transmitted via a specific beam and is identified by a unique SSB index. UE 110 measures the signal strength of each SSB beam. Based on the measurement results, UE 110 can identify the SSB index with the strongest signal strength. The SSB with the strongest signal strength is the best beam for UE110. UE 110 can send a random access request [Msg 1] to the location of the specific SSB beam ID mapped to the best beam.

[0049] UE 110 can send a channel state information (CSI) report to network node 120. This can in particular report channel quality information (CQI) and the SSB index of the best beam(s), such as the SS / PBCH resource block indicator (SSBRI). The CSI report is also referred to as a beam measurement report.

[0050] Figure 2 Illustrates an example of a setup procedure 50 of mTRP operations that occurs during access procedure 2 (also referred to as the initial access procedure), which initiates the connection of UE 110 and is before UE 110 is connected (e.g., RRC connected) to network node 120.

[0051] Before UE 110 is connected, it means the time period immediately before the connection. This does not mean that the connection has never occurred, although this is possible. It can occur, for example, during cell selection or during cell reselection. In at least some examples, the connection is a connection that enables uplink and / or downlink of unicast data. In at least some examples, the connection is a layer 3 (network layer) connection. In at least some examples, the connection is a change of the state machine from the active / idle state to the connected state (e.g., RRC_Connected state). The RRC_Connected state allows the transmission of unicast data to / from the UE and network-controlled mobility, including measurements (beam measurements and / or neighboring cell measurements).

[0052] This setup procedure 50 enables UE 110 to learn about the mTRP capabilities of network node 120 before being connected to network node 120 and to be able to set the mTRP operations as part of the initial access procedure.

[0053] During the initial access procedure 2 and before connecting to the network node 120, the UE 110 learns about the mTRP capabilities 41 of the network node 51. For example, the UE 110 may receive, before being connected to the network node 120, multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120 from the network node 120. For example, this may be received via system information (SI) (such as SIB, for example SIB1).

[0054] The UE 110 determines 52 whether to perform access (cell (re)-selection) to the network node 120 depending on the multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41 of the network node 120.

[0055] Cell selection allows the UE 110 to camp on a serving cell. Cell reselection allows the UE 110 to change the serving cell and camp on a different, better cell. The network provides the configuration for cell reselection via SIB or a dedicated message. Cell reselection may occur in the RRC_INACTIVE or RRC_IDLE state.

[0056] The UE signals 53 its interest in mTRP operation to the network node 120 using the mTRP indication 42. This signaling may be integrated with other signaling performed before being connected to the network node 120. For example, it may be integrated into an uplink message used in the random access connection procedure, such as Msg 1 or Msg 3. For example, it may be integrated into an uplink message used for beam management, such as the beam measurement report 33.

[0057] In at least some examples, the UE 110 is configured by the network node 120 to perform 54 mTRP measurements and send a measurement report, such as the beam measurement report 33, to the network node 120.

[0058] In at least some examples, the network node 120 and the UE 110 may perform 55 mTRP communication before completing the connection.

[0059] Figure 3 An example of the NR initial access procedure is illustrated. The figure illustrates the transition 6 from the cell access procedure 2 to the connected state 4. The connected state is the radio resource control (RRC) connected state.

[0060] Before the transition 6 to the connected state 4, the illustrated procedure includes synchronization 10 and the cell access procedure 2, which includes the random access procedure 20 and an optional beam measurement procedure 30.

[0061] During the synchronization phase 10, the network node 120 sends system information 11.

[0062] In some but not necessarily all examples, the system information is broadcast system information. In some but not necessarily all examples, (broadcast) system information 11 is mandatory minimum system information (MSI). In some examples, the measurement system information 11 is remaining minimum system information (RMSI) and is broadcast periodically. In some but not necessarily all examples, (broadcast) system information 11 is a system information block (SIB). In some but not necessarily all examples, (broadcast) system information is SIB1.

[0063] In some examples, the measurement system information 11 is SIB1.

[0064] The contention-based random access procedure 20 includes:

[0065] i) UE 110 sends a random access request 21 [Msg 1] to the network node 120;

[0066] ii) The network node 120 sends a random access response 22 [Msg 2] to the UE 110

[0067] iii) UE 110 sends a radio resource control (RRC) connection request 23, such as rrcSetupRequest [Msg 3 - scheduled transmission], to the network node 120

[0068] iv) The network node 120 sends an RRC connection setup 24, such as rrcSetup [Msg 4 - contention resolution], to the UE 110

[0069] During the beam measurement procedure 30, the network node 120 sends an SSB / CSI-RS 31. This downlink message, or a previous downlink message, indicates to the UE 110 whether the network node 120 supports single DCI (s-DCI), or multi-DCI (m-DCI).

[0070] The network node 120 sends a DCI 32.

[0071] The UE 110 sends a beam measurement report 33, which can report the SSB index of the (multiple) best beams, e.g., the SS / PBCH resource block indicator (SSBRI).

[0072] Initial access is initiated by the UE sending a random access request (Msg1) to the network node 120. Initial access can be terminated by: after receiving a contention resolution message (Msg4, e.g., RRC connection setup), the UE 110 sends a first beam / CSI report to the network node 120.

[0073] The initial access procedure can be used to perform a setup procedure 50 for the mTRP, and is before the UE 110 is connected (e.g., RRC connected) to the network node 120.

[0074] For example, the UE 110 can receive multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120 from the network node 120 before being connected to the network node 120. This can be received, for example, via system information 11.

[0075] The UE signals 53 its interest in mTRP operation to the network node 120 using the mTRP indication 42. This signaling can be integrated with other signaling performed before being connected to the network node 120. For example, it can be integrated into an uplink message used in a random access attachment procedure, such as Msg 1 (random access request) 21 or Msg 3 (RRC connection request) 23. For example, it can be integrated into an uplink message used for beam management, such as a beam measurement report 33.

[0076] Figure 4 An example of a setup procedure 50 for mTRP operation occurring during the initial access procedure 2 and before the UE 110 is connected (e.g., RRC connected) to the network node 120 is illustrated.

[0077] During the initial access procedure 2 and before being connected to the network node 120, the UE 110 knows 51 the mTRP capability 41 of the network node. For example, the UE 110 can receive multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120 from the network node 120 before being connected to the network node 120. This can be received, for example, via system information (SI) (such as SIB, e.g., SIB1).

[0078] The mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether the network node 120 supports multiple mTRP operations (mTRP downlink transmissions) in the cell.

[0079] In at least some examples, the UE 110 is configured to receive system information 11 ( Figure 4 not shown) from the network node 120 before being connected 4 to the network node 120, the system information 11 including: multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120.

[0080] The UE 110 detects the cell and decodes the system information 11 received from the network node 120.

[0081] System information 11 is, for example, broadcast system information. System information 11 can be, for example, mandatory minimum system information (MIS), such as SIB 1. Thus, SIB1 can be modified. System information 11 can be, for example, a system information block (SIB). The SIB can be, for example, a minimum system information (MIS) SIB (such as SIB1). The SIB can be, for example, a remaining system information (RMSI) SIB (such as SIB2 or another SIB, such as a new SIB).

[0082] In some examples, the mTRP capability information 41 is included within the channel measurement resource (CMR) of a system information block (SIB) and / or is included within the s / m-DCI of a system information block (SIB). There is an mTRP flag within the CMR and s / m-DCI fields in the SIB, which can indicate the mTRP capability of the network node 120 (mTRP capability information 41).

[0083] The UE 110 determines 52 whether to perform access (cell (re-)selection) to the network node 120 depending on the multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41 of the network node 120.

[0084] In at least some examples, the UE 110 is configured to select a cell for access depending on the mTRP capability information 41 indicating that the network node 120 supports mTRP operation for the cell and the cell meets the cell selection criteria 70 for access.

[0085] For example, the determination can use the cell selection criteria 70 based on measurements for the TRP of the selected network node 120. If the mTRP capability information 41 indicates that the network node 120 supports mTRP operation in its associated cell and the UE 110 determines that the cell meets the cell selection criteria 70, then the UE 110 selects the cell for initial access.

[0086] The selection criteria 70 can be, for example, based on the received power of multiple transceiver points for the cell at the user equipment 110 and / or the received quality of multiple transceiver points for the cell at the user equipment 110.

[0087] In this example, if the following items are met, the current network node 120 is determined to be suitable for access:

[0088] The multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41 for the selected network node 120 indicates that the current network node 120 supports multi-transceiver point (TRP) operation; and

[0089] The received signal level (e.g., reference signal received power (RSRP)) and / or received signal strength (e.g., reference signal received quality (RSRQ)) of the current network node 120 is passed through decision criterion 70.

[0090] In some but not necessarily all examples, decision criterion 70 is controlled via mTRP capability information 41, or other downlink information.

[0091] The cells served by the mTRP can be prioritized. A UE 110 interested in mTRP operation can shortlist all available cells based on cell selection criterion 70, and can prioritize the cells with mTRP enabled if the UE 110 is interested in mTRP operation.

[0092] In some examples, the user equipment is configured to select a cell for initial access that supports mTRP operation and best meets the cell selection criterion 70 for initial access.

[0093] For example, the cell selection criterion 70 can be based on having an available Rx power margin and an available received quality margin.

[0094] An example of the selection criterion 70 is SrxlevTRPs > 0 and SqualTRPs > 0

[0095] where

[0096] SrxlevTRP is the Srxlev for a specific TRP, and

[0097] SqualTRP is the Squal for a specific TRP

[0098] In at least some examples,

[0099] Srxlev = Qrxlevmeas – (Qrxlevmin + Qrxlevminoffset) – Pcompensation - Qoffsettemp Squal = Qqualmeas – (Qqualmin + Qqualminoffset) – Qoffsettemp

[0100] Srxlev Cell selection RX level value (dB) Squal Cell selection quality value (dB)

[0101] <![CDATA[Qoffset temp > Offset temporarily applied to the cell (dB)

[0102]

[0103] <![CDATA[Q qualmeas > Measured cell quality value (RSRQ) <![CDATA[Q qualmin > Minimum required quality level within the cell (dB). <![CDATA[Q qualminoffset > <![CDATA[Offset from the signaled Q qualmin >

[0104]

[0105] UE 110 signals to network node 120 that it is interested in using multi-transceiver point (mTRP operation) to connect to network node 120. The signaling 53 is before the UE 110 is connected to network node 120.

[0106] Thus, in response to selecting a cell for initial access, UE 110 may send a 53 mTRP indication 42 to network node 120, indicating that UE 110 is interested in mTRP operation.

[0107] This signaling 53 may be integrated with other signaling performed before being connected to network node 120. For example, it may be integrated into an uplink message used in a random access attachment procedure, such as Msg 1 or Msg 3. For example, it may be integrated into an uplink message used for beam management, such as beam measurement report 33.

[0108] Figure 5 Illustrated is an example of a setup procedure 50 for mTRP operation that occurs during the initial access procedure 2 and before the UE 110 is connected to (e.g., RRC connected to) network node 120. Phases 51, 52, 53 are the Figure 4 same and will not be elaborated further.

[0109] UE 110 is configured by network node 120 to perform 54 mTRP measurements and send a beam measurement report 33 to network node 120.

[0110] Before a connection has been established between UE 110 and network node 120, UE 110 receives a measurement configuration 43 in response to sending the mTRP indication 42, and the measurement configuration 43 is used to perform reception quality measurements separately for at least two TRPs of the selected cell.

[0111] UE 110 is configured to:

[0112] i) Before being connected to network node 120, receive from network node 120 a measurement configuration 43 that is used to perform reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0113] ii) For example, before being connected to network node 120, depending on the received measurement configuration 43, perform the configured reception quality measurements 54 separately for at least two transceiver points; and

[0114] iii) For example, before being connected to network node 120, depending on the configured reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points, send 55 at least one measurement report 44 to network node 120.

[0115] For example, the measurement report 44 may indicate the reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points.

[0116] For example, the measurement report 44 may indicate the reception quality that can be received simultaneously from at least two transceiver points.

[0117] The measurement configuration 43 may be sent from the network node 120 via any suitable downlink signaling. In the example shown, but not necessarily in all examples, the measurement configuration 43 is sent separately to the mTRP capability information 41. In some examples, the network node 120 sends the measurement configuration 43 in the SIB. In some examples, the network node 120 sends the measurement configuration 43 during the RRC connection establishment 24, such as rrcSetup [Msg 4 - contention resolution].

[0118] The network node 120 may provide a CMR (SSB) resource set group, where each resource is associated with a different TRP. Based on this, the UE 110 in the CSI report 33 may report (M = 2) L1 - RSRP measurements from different CMR resource sets.

[0119] In some examples (not shown), the UE 110 is configured to decide whether to accept the provided measurement configuration 43 and send an acknowledgement of the acceptance. If the measurement configuration 43 is accepted by the UE 110, the UE 110 may send a measurement report / CSI report 33 for the channel measurement resource (CMR) set.

[0120] For example, if the UE 110 has a low battery level, or for other reasons, the UE 110 may not accept the measurement configuration 43. The UE 110 may perform a soft rejection and not reject the complete configuration, but only reject the configuration that the UE 110 does not want to execute. The network node 120 may provide resource information (DCI) to the UE 110 before the network node 120 can utilize the resources for other purposes, but only schedule the CMR (CSI / SSB) after the acceptance is confirmed by the UE 110.

[0121] In some examples, the acknowledgement is implicit, while in other examples it is explicit. For example, the provision of the s / mDCI preference by the UE 110 may indicate the acceptance of the measurement configuration 43.

[0122] The network may use the resources for other purposes until the acceptance. The UE 110 may provide the acceptance of the CMR (CSI or SSB) resource set, where each resource is associated with a different TRP.

[0123] In the case where the network node 120 provides a default or UE-specific measurement configuration 43 via RRC connection establishment 24 (e.g., rrcSetup [Msg 4 - contention resolution]), the UE 110 may indicate acceptance in the rrcSetupComplete message.

[0124] In some examples, the UE 110 performs the received quality measurement and sends a measurement report 44 to the network node 120, indicating the received quality separately for each TRP.

[0125] In some examples, the UE 110 is configured to:

[0126] depending on the received measurement configuration 43, perform the configured received quality measurements separately and simultaneously for at least two transceiver points;

[0127] depending on the configured simultaneous received quality measurements for at least two transceiver points, send at least a measurement report 44 to the network node 120.

[0128] In at least some examples, the measurement report 44 indicates the received quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points. In at least some examples, the received quality measurement indication may be the received quality that can be received simultaneously from at least two transceiver points.

[0129] In at least some examples, the network node 120 and the UE 110 may then perform 55 mTRP communication before completing the connection. Once the UE 110 provides a CSI report 33 to the network node 120, the network node 120 may start mTRP transmission.

[0130] The CSI report may be, for example, a group-based report indicating which beams the UE 110 can receive simultaneously.

[0131] Thus, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, the user equipment (UE) 110 is configured to:

[0132] before being connected to the network node 120, receive multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120 from the network node 120; and depending on the multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41, determine whether to perform access to the network node 120.

[0133] The network node 120 is configured to:

[0134] before being connected to the user equipment 110, send multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the transmission network node 120; and

[0135] Receive signaling before being connected to the user equipment 110, the signaling indicating that the UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120.

[0136] The UE 110 knows the mTRP capabilities of the network node before being connected to the network node 120 and is able to set the mTRP operation as part of the initial access procedure.

[0137] During the initial attachment procedure, the UE 110 makes an informed decision on (re)selecting a cell based on the cell-supported functions / capabilities.

[0138] This leads to an efficient utilization of the UE capabilities, i.e., the functions provided by the cell. It also allows the UE 110 and the network to start scheduling communications via multiple TRPs in a time-division multiplexing (TDM) manner and to prepare for simultaneous communications via different TRPs.

[0139] If the cell does not support the required service (mTRP operation), there is no need to establish a connection to the cell, which from the UE's perspective leads to improved resource utilization and reduced power consumption. In at least some examples, the UE 110 prioritizes mTRP cells over non-mTRP cells.

[0140] Performing the mTRP operation as part of the initial access procedure reduces signaling. In the case where the UE 110 is interested in the mTRP operation, the initial access is improved. The initial access is initiated by the UE 110 sending a random access request message (e.g., Msg1) to the network node 120. The initial access can be terminated by the UE 110 sending the first beam / CSI report to the network node 120 after receiving a contention resolution message (Msg4, e.g., RRC connection establishment).

[0141] In some examples, the multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120 is included in the broadcast system information 11, e.g., in a SIB (such as SIB1).

[0142] In some examples, the UE 110 signals to the network node 120 that the UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 before being connected to the network node 120. This can occur, for example, in any suitable uplink message. For example, during the random access procedure and / or the connection establishment procedure (e.g., Msg 1 or Msg 3), or as part of a beam measurement report 33.

[0143] In some examples, the UE 110 is configured to signal to the network node 120 that the UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 during the random access procedure and / or the connection establishment procedure.

[0144] In one example, the random access request 21 [Msg 1] can be enhanced to carry the mTRP indication 42. In one example, the network node 120 can reserve / allocate certain preambles for the UE 110 to indicate the need for mTRP operation and provide this configuration in the system information 11 (e.g., SIB1). Accordingly, the RACH preamble includes the mTRP indication 42. In the case where Msg 1 is used, multiple PRACH preamble formats for Msg 1 can be defined to allow the UE 110 to indicate an interest in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 by selecting a specific PRACH preamble configuration.

[0145] In one example, the radio resource control (RRC) connection request 23 (e.g., rrcSetupRequest [Msg 3 - scheduled transmission]) includes the mTRP indication 42.

[0146] In some examples, the UE 110 is configured to signal to the network node 120 an interest in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 using a beam measurement report 33 before being connected to the network node 120.

[0147] Accordingly, the UE 110 can perform mTRP aware cell (re) selection. The network node 120 can start mTRP operations, such as mTRP measurements, during the cell connection process.

[0148] This can reduce the signaling time and latency by sharing the payload among multiple TRPs. After the UE 110 provides a CSI report (beam measurement report) 33 to the network node 120, the network node 120 can start mTRP transmission.

[0149] In at least some examples, the beam management report notifies the network node 120 which beams the UE 110 can receive simultaneously.

[0150] Figure 4 and Figure 5 illustrates an example of the apparatus / device 110, the apparatus / device 110 including components for:

[0151] receiving, before being connected to the network node 120, multi - transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120, where the mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether the network node 120 supports multi - mTRP operation in the cell; and

[0152] Depending on the mTRP capability information 41 indicating that the network node 120 supports mTRP operation for a cell and the cell meets the cell selection criteria 70 for initial access, select a cell for initial access;

[0153] Depending on the selection, prior to being connected to the network node 120, signal to the network node 120 that the UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120;

[0154] Prior to being connected to the network node 120, receive a measurement configuration 43 from the network node 120, the measurement configuration 43 being for performing reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0155] Optionally, prior to being connected to the network node 120, depending on the received measurement configuration 43, perform the configured reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0156] Optionally, prior to being connected to the network node 120, depending on the configured reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points, send at least a measurement report 44 to the network node 120, wherein the measurement report indicates reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points.

[0157] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Illustrates an example of a network node 120, the network node 120 including components for:

[0158] Prior to being connected to the user equipment 110, broadcast multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for the network node 120, wherein the mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether the network node 120 supports multiple mTRP operations in a cell; and

[0159] Prior to being connected to the user equipment 110, receive signaling indicating that the UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120;

[0160] Prior to being connected to the user equipment 110, send a measurement configuration 43 for the user equipment to perform reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0161] Prior to being connected to the user equipment 110, depending on the measurement configuration 43, receive at least one measurement report 44 from the user equipment 110, wherein the measurement report 44 indicates reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points.

[0162] In at least some examples, Figure 4 and Figure 5It is illustrated that cell (re)selection can be performed using a selection period 60.

[0163] Figure 6 An example of a selection period 60 for cell (re)selection is illustrated.

[0164] At block 61, the UE 110 receives multi-TRP capability information 41 for a plurality of different network nodes 120 via system information 11.

[0165] At block 62, the UE 110 selects the first network node among the different network nodes 120. This selection can be based on the multi-TRP capability information 41, and on a selection criterion 70 based on the received power level for the network node 120 and / or the received quality level for the network node 120. Alternatively, the selection can be ordered or random.

[0166] At block 63, the UE 110 performs measurements on the selected network node 120.

[0167] In the example shown, the UE measurements for the selected network node 120 measure the received signal level for the signal transmitted by the selected network node 120, and / or the received signal quality for the signal transmitted by the selected network node 120. For example, the UE 110 can measure the reference signal received power (RSRP) and / or the reference signal received quality (RSRQ).

[0168] At block 64, the UE 110 determines whether to perform access to the network node 120 depending on the multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41 for the selected network node 120. In this example, the determination at block 64 can also use, for example, a decision criterion 70 based on the measurements performed on the selected network node 120 at block 63.

[0169] In this example, if the following are met, the current network node 120 is determined to be suitable for access:

[0170] The multi-transceiver point (TRP) capability information 41 for the selected network node 120 indicates that the current network node 120 supports multi-transceiver point (TRP) operation; and

[0171] The received signal level (e.g., RSRP) and / or the received signal power (e.g., RSRQ) for the current network node 120 pass the decision criterion 70.

[0172] In some but not necessarily all examples, the decision criterion 70 is controlled via the multi-TRP capability information 41 of other downlink information.

[0173] If the current network node 120 is selected for access at block 64, the method moves to block 64. If the current network node 120 is not selected for access at block 64, the method moves to block 62, where the UE 110 selects the next network node among the multiple different network nodes 120, and the method repeats.

[0174] Thus, if the network node 120 supports multi-transceiver point (mTRP) operation in the cell and the UE 110 determines that the cell meets the cell selection criteria, the UE 110 selects the cell for initial access. Otherwise, the UE 110 continues to check the next cell.

[0175] In the case where the network node 120 does not support mTRP operation, the UE 110 can continue to select the next cell; and if mTRP operation is supported, the network node 120 can start scheduling additional messages via mTRP immediately after initial access.

[0176] In at least some examples, the UE 110 is configured to: depending on the received mTRP capability information 41 associated with the cell, select a cell for initial access that supports mTRP operation and meets the cell selection criteria 70 for initial access, and prevent the selection of a cell for initial access that does not support mTRP operation.

[0177] In at least some examples, the network node 120 indicates DCI capability and whether it supports the s / m-DCI operation mode during initial access.

[0178] The DCI capability can be sent together with the mTRP capability information 41, or can be indicated separately in a downlink message. For example, the network node 120 can broadcast the s-DCI and / or m-DCI functions of the network via SIB. For example, the network node 120 can broadcast an enumeration indicating the s-DCI and / or m-DCI operation mode.

[0179] For example, the network node 120 can use a dedicated message and, for example, provide an enumeration indicating the s-DCI and / or m-DCI operation mode.

[0180] In some examples, the UE 110 can indicate a preferred DCI operation mode scheduling, for example via an rrcSetupComplete message, or another uplink message, to provide an enumeration indicating the s-DCI and / or m-DCI operation mode. If the UE 110 does not support the DCI indicated by the network and / or wants single TRP operation, it can exclude the s-DCI / m-DCI indication in the rrcSetupCompleteMessage. Thus, the s / m-DCI indication can be implicitly used as the mTRP indication 42.

[0181] The following use cases will help to understand the present disclosure. The network node 120 broadcasts the mTRP capability information 41 in the SIB (SIB1 / SIB2 / new SIB). This indicates the mTRP transmission capability of the network node.

[0182] The network node 120 indicates the DCI operation mode, such as the s / m-DCI operation mode.

[0183] The UE 110 interested in mTRP operation can prioritize the cell(s) providing mTRP over other cells. The UE 110 interested in mTRP operation can shortlist all available cells (searched based on the cell selection criteria 70), and give preference to the candidate cells with mTRP enabled if the UE 110 is interested in mTRP operation.

[0184] The cell selection criteria 70 can be enhanced to consider mTRP measurements, i.e., the CMR (SSB) resource set, where each resource is associated with a different TRP.

[0185] The UE 110 sends an mTRP interest indication 42. For example, the random access request 21 [Msg 1] provides the mTRP interest indication 42. For example, the radio resource control (RRC) connection request 23 (e.g., rrcSetupRequest [Msg 3 - scheduled transmission]) provides the mTRP interest indication 42.

[0186] The selected network node 120 sends a measurement configuration 43 (e.g., CMR configuration, i.e., the CMR (SSB) resource set) to the UE 110. This can be provided via the SIB or via the RRC connection establishment [Msg4].

[0187] Optionally, the UE 110 that has sent its mTRP interest indication in the RACH / rrcRequest can accept the provided configuration and send an acknowledgement in the rrcSetupComplete message. If the CMR configuration is accepted by the UE 110, the UE 110 can send a measurement report (CSI report for the CMR set) to the network node 120.

[0188] The UE 110 can indicate s / m-DCI support / preference via the rrcSetupComplete message. If the UE 110 does not support the DCI indicated by the network and / or prefers single-TRP operation, it can exclude the s / m-DCI indication from the rrcSetupCompleteMessage.

[0189] Based on the measurement report (CSI report), the network can start scheduling additional control messages / data on multiple TRPs. In some examples, the measurement report 44 (e.g., beam measurement report 33) provides an mTRP interest indication 42.

[0190] Figure 7 , Figure 8 Illustrates additional examples of UE 110 and network node 120. UE 110 can operate as described above. Network node 120 can operate as described above.

[0191] In these figures, user equipment 110 includes components for:

[0192] During a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, signaling 53 is sent to network node 120 indicating that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120.

[0193] UE 110 can use the mTRP indication 42 to signal 53 its interest in multi-transceiver point (mTRP) operation to network node 120.

[0194] The random access procedure and / or the connection establishment procedure are before being connected to network node 120.

[0195] In these figures, network node 120 includes components for:

[0196] Before being connected to user equipment 110, sending multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for network node 120; and

[0197] Before being connected to user equipment 110, receiving signaling during a connection establishment procedure and / or a random access procedure for user equipment 110, the signaling indicating that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120.

[0198] In some but not necessarily all examples, the signaling that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120 is included in the random access request. In some but not necessarily all examples, the signaling that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120 is included in Msg 1 of a contention-based random access procedure. In some but not necessarily all examples, the signaling that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120 is defined by the random access request or the preamble of Msg 1.

[0199] In some but not necessarily all examples, signaling by the UE 110 interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 is included in the RRC connection request. In some but not necessarily all examples, signaling by the UE 110 interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120 is included in Msg 3 of the contention-based random access procedure.

[0200] As previously mentioned, in at least some examples, the user equipment 110 includes components for: selecting a cell for access depending on the mTRP capability information 41 indicating that the network node 120 supports mTRP operation for the cell and the cell meets the cell selection criteria 70 for (initial) access.

[0201] In some but not necessarily all examples, the components for selecting a cell for (initial) access are configured to: select a cell that supports mTRP operation and best meets the cell selection criteria 70 for (initial) access.

[0202] In some but not necessarily all examples, the selection criteria 70 are based on the received power of the multiple transceiver points for the cell at the user equipment 110 and / or the received quality of the multiple transceiver points for the cell at the user equipment 110.

[0203] As previously mentioned, in at least some examples, the user equipment 110 includes components for:

[0204] Before being connected to the network node 120, receiving a measurement configuration 43 from the network node 120, the measurement configuration 43 being for performing received quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0205] Depending on the received measurement configuration 43, performing the configured received quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points (in some examples, before being connected to the network node 120); and

[0206] Depending on the configured received quality measurements of at least two transceiver points, sending at least a measurement report to the network node 120 (in some examples, before being connected to the network node 120).

[0207] In some but not necessarily all examples, the measurement report indicates the received quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points.

[0208] In some but not necessarily all examples, the UE 110 includes components for:

[0209] Depending on the received measurement configuration 43, performing the configured received quality measurements separately and simultaneously for at least two transceiver points;

[0210] Send at least a measurement report to network node 120 depending on the configured simultaneous reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points,

[0211] wherein the measurement report separately indicates reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points, and wherein the reception quality measurements indicate the reception quality that can be simultaneously received from at least two transceiver points.

[0212] In at least some examples, UE 110 includes components for:

[0213] Before being connected to network node 120, receive a system information block from network node 120, the system information block including: multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for network node 120, wherein the mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether network node 120 supports multi-mTRP operation in the cell; and

[0214] Depending on the mTRP capability information 41 indicating that network node 120 supports mTRP operation for the cell and the cell meets the cell selection criteria for (initial) access, select a cell for (initial) access;

[0215] Depending on the selection, before being connected to network node 120, during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, signal to network node 120 that UE 110 is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to network node 120;

[0216] Before being connected to network node 120, receive a measurement configuration 43 from network node 120, the measurement configuration 43 for performing reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0217] Depending on the received measurement configuration 43, perform the configured reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points (in some examples, before being connected to network node 120);

[0218] Depending on the configured reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points, (in some examples, before being connected to network node 120) send at least a measurement report to network node 120, wherein the measurement report separately indicates reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points.

[0219] In at least some examples, network node 120 includes components for:

[0220] Before being connected to user equipment 110, send a system information block, the system information block including: multi-transceiver point (mTRP) capability information 41 for network node 120, wherein the mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether network node 120 supports multi-mTRP operation in the cell; and

[0221] Before being connected to the user equipment 110, during the random access procedure and / or connection establishment procedure for the user equipment, receive signaling that indicates that the UE is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node 120;

[0222] Before being connected to the user equipment 110, send a measurement configuration 43 for the user equipment to perform reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points;

[0223] Depending on the measurement configuration 43, receive at least one measurement report from the user equipment 110 (in some examples, before being connected to the user equipment 110), where the measurement report indicates reception quality measurements separately for at least two transceiver points.

[0224] The mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether the network node 120 supports mTRP operation in the cell.

[0225] As Figure 8 shown, in some but not necessarily all examples, the mTRP capability information 41 is provided by the system information, as described above. Broadcasting system information is mandatory minimum system information. In some but not necessarily all examples, the broadcasting system information is a system information block (SIB). In some but not necessarily all examples, the broadcasting system information is SIB1.

[0226] The mTRP capability information 41 indicates whether the network node 120 supports mTRP operation in the cell. In some examples, the mTRP capability information 41 is at least included in the channel measurement resource (CMR) of the system information block, and / or where the mTRP capability information 41 is at least included in the s / m-DCI of the system information block.

[0227] In at least some of the previous examples, before being connected to the network node 120 means before the UE 110 has a radio resource control connection (RRC_Connection) state.

[0228] In at least some of the previous examples, (initial) access is initiated by the UE 110 sending a random access message to the network node and is terminated by the UE 110 sending a first beam report or a first channel state information report to the network node after receiving a contention resolution message and / or a radio resource control connection establishment message.

[0229] In at least some of the previous examples, a (beam) measurement report 33 (CSI report) can optionally be sent after sending an RRC connection reconfiguration complete message (i.e., after initial access).

[0230] Figure 9 An example of a controller 400 suitable for use in apparatuses 110, 120 is illustrated. The controller 400 may be implemented as controller circuitry. The controller 400 may be implemented solely in hardware, have certain aspects in software (including firmware alone), or may be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0231] As Figure 9 shown, the controller 400 may be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functionality, e.g., by using executable instructions of a computer program 406 in a general - purpose or special - purpose processor 402, which may be stored on a computer - readable storage medium (such as a disk, memory, etc.) to be executed by such a processor 402.

[0232] The processor 402 is configured to read from and write to the memory 404. The processor 402 may further include: an output interface through which data and / or commands are output by the processor 402; and an input interface through which data and / or commands are input into the processor 402.

[0233] The memory 404 stores a computer program 406, which includes computer program instructions (computer program code). When the computer program instructions are loaded into the processor 402, they control the operation of the apparatuses 110, 120. The computer program instructions of the computer program 406 provide the logic and routines that enable the apparatuses to perform the methods shown in the figures. By reading the memory 404, the processor 402 is able to load and execute the computer program 406.

[0234] Apparatus 110 includes:

[0235] at least one processor 402; and

[0236] at least one memory 404, including computer program code,

[0237] The at least one memory stores instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 402, cause the apparatus to at least:

[0238] During a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, signal to a network node that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node.

[0239] Apparatus 120 includes:

[0240] at least one processor 402; and

[0241] at least one memory 404, including computer program code,

[0242] The at least one memory stores instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor 402, cause the apparatus to at least:

[0243] Before being connected to a user equipment, send multi-transceiver point capability information for a network node; and

[0244] Before being connected to a user equipment, during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment, receive signaling which indicates that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node.

[0245] As Figure 10 shown, the computer program 406 can reach the apparatuses 110, 120 via any suitable delivery mechanism 408. For example, the delivery mechanism 408 can be a machine-readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a recording medium (such as a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or a digital versatile disc (DVD) or a solid-state memory), an article of manufacture including or tangibly embodying the computer program 406. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably deliver the computer program 406. The apparatuses 110, 120 can propagate or transmit the computer program 406 as a computer data signal.

[0246] The computer program 406 includes program instructions which, when executed by one or more processors of the user equipment 110, cause the user equipment to:

[0247] During a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, signal to the network node that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node.

[0248] The computer program 406 includes program instructions which, when executed by one or more processors of the network node 120, cause the network node to perform:

[0249] Before being connected to a user equipment, send multi-transceiver point capability information for a network node; and

[0250] Before being connected to a user equipment, during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment, receive signaling which indicates that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node.

[0251] The computer program instructions can be included in a computer program, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, a computer program product, a machine-readable medium. In some but not necessarily all examples, the computer program instructions can be distributed over more than one computer program.

[0252] Although the memory 404 is illustrated as a single component / circuit system, it may be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated / removable storage, and / or may provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cache storage.

[0253] Although the processor 402 is shown as a single component / circuit system, it may be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated / removable. The processor 402 may be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor.

[0254] References to "computer-readable storage media", "computer program products", "tangibly embodied computer programs", etc. or "controllers", "computers", "processors", etc. should be understood to include not only computers having different architectures (such as single / multi-processor architectures and sequential (von Neumann) / parallel architectures), but also dedicated circuits (such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), signal processing devices, and other processing circuit systems). References to computer programs, instructions, code, etc. should be understood to cover software for programmable processors or firmware, such as, for example, the programmable content of a hardware device, whether instructions for a processor or configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array, or programmable logic device, etc.

[0255] As used in this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0256] (a) Only hardware circuit system implementations (such as, only implementations in analog and / or digital circuit systems); and

[0257] (b) Combinations of hardware circuits and software, for example (where applicable):

[0258] (i) Combinations of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, and

[0259] (ii) Any part of a (multiple) hardware processor (including (multiple) digital signal processors) with software, software, and one or more memories or memories that work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or a server) to perform various functions; and

[0260] (c) (Multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors, or a part of (multiple) microprocessors, which require software (such as firmware) to operate, but the software may not be present when the operation does not require software.

[0261] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of the term in this application (including any in the claims). As another example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" also encompasses implementations that are only hardware circuits or a processor and its (their) attendant software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also encompasses, for example, if applicable to a particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0262] The boxes shown in the figures may represent steps in a method and / or sections of code in a computer program 406. The recitation of a particular order of the boxes does not necessarily imply a required or preferred order for the boxes, and the order and arrangement of the boxes may be changed. Additionally, it may be possible to omit some boxes.

[0263] Where a structural feature has been described, it may be replaced by a component or components for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature, whether the function or functions are described explicitly or implicitly.

[0264] As used herein, a "module" refers to a unit or device excluding certain components that will be added by a final manufacturer or user. The user equipment 110 may be a module.

[0265] The above examples can be applied as supporting components for the following:

[0266] Automotive systems; telecommunications systems; electronic systems, including consumer electronics; distributed computing systems; media systems for generating or presenting media content, including audio, visual, and audiovisual content as well as mixed, mediated, virtual, and / or augmented reality; personal systems, including personal health systems or personal fitness systems; navigation systems; user interfaces, also known as human-machine interfaces; networks, including cellular, non-cellular, and fiber-optic networks; ad-hoc networks; the Internet; the Internet of Things; virtualized networks; and associated software and services.

[0267] According to an example of the present disclosure, the apparatus may be provided in an electronic device (such as a mobile terminal). However, it should be understood that a mobile terminal is only an example of an electronic device that will benefit from the examples of the implementation of the present disclosure, and thus should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure thereto. Although in some example implementations, the apparatus may be provided in a mobile terminal, other types of electronic devices, such as but not limited to: mobile communication devices, handheld portable electronic devices, wearable computing devices, portable digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, mobile computers, desktop computers, televisions, gaming devices, laptop computers, cameras, video recorders, GPS devices, and other types of electronic systems, may readily adopt the examples of the present disclosure. In addition, whether the device is intended to provide mobility or not, they may readily adopt the examples of the present disclosure.

[0268] The term "comprising" as used in this document has an inclusive rather than an exclusive meaning. That is, any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may include only one Y or may include more than one Y. If it is intended to use "comprising" in an exclusive meaning, it will be explicitly stated in the context by referring to "including only one..." or by using "consisting of".

[0269] In this description, the words "connected", "coupled", and "communicated" and their derivatives mean being operatively connected / coupled / communicated. It should be understood that any number or combination of intermediate components (including no intermediate components) may exist, i.e., so as to provide a direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intermediate components may include hardware and / or software components.

[0270] As used herein, the term "determine / determining" (and its grammatical variants) may include (but is not limited to): calculating, computing, processing, deriving, measuring, investigating, identifying, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, etc. Additionally, "determine" may include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), obtaining, etc. Additionally, "determine / determining" may include parsing, selecting, picking, establishing, etc.

[0271] In this specification, various examples have been referred to. The description of a feature or function related to an example indicates that those features or functions exist in that example. The use of the terms "example" or "for example" or "may" or "might" in the text means that, whether explicitly stated or not, such features or functions exist in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and they may but need not exist in some or all other examples. Thus, "example", "for example", "may" or "might" indicate a specific instance within a class of examples. The attributes of an instance may be attributes only of that instance, or attributes of the class, or attributes of a subclass of the class that includes some but not all instances of the class. Thus, features described with reference to one example rather than another are implicitly disclosed and, where possible, may be used as part of a working combination in that other example, but need not necessarily be used in that other example.

[0272] Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be understood that the given examples may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0273] The features described in the foregoing description may be used in combinations other than those explicitly described above.

[0274] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performed by other features, whether described or not.

[0275] Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also exist in other examples, whether described or not.

[0276] The terms "a", "an", or "the" as used herein have an inclusive rather than an exclusive meaning. That is, any reference to X that includes a / an / the Y means that X may include only one Y, or may include more than one Y, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. If it is intended to use "a", "an", or "the" in an exclusive meaning, it will be stated explicitly in the context. In some cases, the use of "at least one" or "one or more" may be used to emphasize the inclusive meaning, but the absence of these terms should not be taken as inferring any exclusive meaning.

[0277] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim refers to that feature or (combination of features) itself, as well as to features (equivalent features) that achieve substantially the same technical effect. For example, equivalent features include features that are variants and that achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. For example, equivalent features include features that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

[0278] In this specification, various examples have been cited that use adjectives or adjective phrases to describe example features. Such descriptions of features related to an example indicate that the feature exists exactly as described in some examples and substantially as described in other examples.

[0279] The foregoing description describes some examples of the present disclosure. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that there may be alternative structural and method features that provide functions equivalent to those of the specific examples of the foregoing structures and features and that have been omitted from the foregoing description for the sake of brevity and clarity. Nevertheless, the foregoing description should be understood to implicitly include references to such alternative structural and method features that provide equivalent functions, unless such alternative structural or method features are expressly excluded in the foregoing description of the examples of the present disclosure.

[0280] Although every effort has been made in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be important, it should be understood that the applicant may seek protection, via the claims, for any patentable feature or combination of features mentioned above and / or shown in the accompanying drawings, whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

1. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for: During the random access procedure and / or the connection establishment procedure, it is signaled to the network node that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using multiple transceiver points.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein signaling that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using multiple transceiver points is included in a random access request.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signaling that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node is included in Msg 1 of the contention-based random access procedure.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the signaling that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node is defined by a preamble of the random access request or Msg 1.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein signaling that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using multiple transceiver points is included within an RRC connection request.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signaling that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node is included in Msg 3 of the contention-based random access procedure.

7. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising means for: before being connected to the network node, receiving broadcast system information from the network node, the broadcast system information including multi-transceiver point capability information for the network node; and Depending on the multi-transceiver point capability information, it is determined whether to perform access to the network node.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the broadcast system information is mandatory minimum system information, a system information block (SIB), or SIB1.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the multi-transceiver point capability information indicates whether the network node supports multi-transceiver point operation of a cell, and / or The multi-transceiver point capability information is at least included in a channel measurement resource (CMR) of a system information block, and / or the multi-transceiver point capability information is at least included in an s / m-DCI of a system information block.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, comprising means for selecting the cell for access depending on that the multi-transceiver point capability information indicates that the network node supports multi-transceiver point operation for a cell and that the cell satisfies a cell selection criterion for access.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the means for selecting the cell for initial access is configured to select a cell that supports multi-transceiver point operation and best meets the cell selection criteria for initial access.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the selection criterion is based on: received power at the user equipment for multiple transceiver points of the cell, and / or received quality at the user equipment for multiple transceiver points of the cell.

13. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the means for signaling a network node comprises means for, before being connected to the network node, signaling to the network node using a beam measurement report that the user equipment is interested in using multiple transceiver points to connect to the network node.

14. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, comprising means for: receiving, before being connected to the network node, a measurement configuration from the network node, the measurement configuration being used to perform reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points separately; as well as performing the configured reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points separately depending on the received measurement configuration; as well as Depending on the configured reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points, at least a measurement report is sent to the network node.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the measurement report indicates reception quality measurements separately for the at least two transceiver points.

16. Apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, comprising means for: performing, separately and simultaneously, configured reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points depending on the received measurement configuration; sending at least a measurement report to the network node depending on the configured simultaneous reception quality measurement for the at least two transceiver points, The measurement report separately indicates reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points, wherein the reception quality measurements indicate reception qualities that can be received simultaneously from the at least two transceiver points.

17. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, configured as user equipment or as a module for user equipment.

18. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, when dependent on claim 7, wherein the access is initiated by the apparatus sending a random access message to the network node and is terminated by: after receiving a contention resolution message and / or a radio resource control connection establishment message, the apparatus sending a first beam report or a first channel state information report to the network node.

19. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for: sending multi-transceiver point capability information for a network node before being connected to the user equipment; and Prior to connecting to the user equipment, signaling is received during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment, the signaling indicating that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using a plurality of transceiver points.

20. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for: receiving, before being connected to a network node, a system information block from the network node, the system information block comprising multi-transceiver point capability information for the network node, wherein the multi-transceiver point capability information indicates whether the network node supports multi-transceiver point operation in a cell; as well as selecting the cell for initial access depending on the multi-transceiver point capability information indicating that the network node supports multi-transceiver point operation for the cell and the cell satisfies a cell selection criterion for initial access; depending on the selection, prior to being connected to the network node, during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, signaling to the network node that the user equipment is interested in using a plurality of transceiver points to connect to the network node; receiving a measurement configuration from the network node, the measurement configuration being used to perform reception quality measurements for at least two transceiver points separately; performing the configured reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points separately depending on the received measurement configuration; Depending on the configured reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points, at least a measurement report is sent to the network node, wherein the measurement report indicates reception quality measurements separately for the at least two transceiver points.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, comprising means for: selecting the cell for initial access that supports multi-transceiver point operation and satisfies the cell selection criteria for initial access, depending on the received multi-transceiver point capability information associated with the cell, and preventing selection of a cell for initial access that does not support multi-transceiver point operation.

22. An apparatus for communication, comprising means for: before being connected to the user equipment, sending a system information block, the system information block comprising multi-transceiver point capability information for the network node, wherein the multi-transceiver point capability information indicates: whether the network node supports multi-transceiver point operation in a cell; as well as receiving signaling during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment before being connected to the user equipment, the signaling indicating that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using a plurality of transceiver points; Before being connected to the user equipment, sending a measurement configuration, the measurement configuration being used for the user equipment to perform reception quality measurement for at least two transceiver points separately; Depending on the measurement configuration, at least a measurement report is received from the user equipment, wherein the measurement report separately indicates reception quality measurements for the at least two transceiver points.

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 22, configured as a gNB.

24. A computer program product comprising program instructions which, when executed by one or more processors of a user device, cause the user device to: During a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure, a network node is signaled that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using a plurality of transceiver points.

25. A computer program product comprising program instructions which, when executed by one or more processors of a network node, cause the network node to: before being connected to the user equipment, sending multi-transceiver point capability information for the network node; and Prior to connecting to a user equipment, signaling is received during a random access procedure and / or a connection establishment procedure for the user equipment, the instructions indicating that the user equipment is interested in connecting to the network node using a plurality of transceiver points.

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