Beam management apparatus and method for access link in new radio network control repeater (nr-ncr)

Abstract

A relay node may receive a pattern index indicating a beam pattern. Further, the relay node may receive resource information indicating a beam type. Further, the relay node may receive one or more first beam indices associated with the indicated beam pattern. Under the condition that the indicated beam type is narrow and there is a beam index corresponding to a wide beam type in the one or more first beam indices, the relay node may determine a second beam index for a narrow beam set associated with the beam index corresponding to the wide beam type in the one or more first beam indices. In addition, the relay node may determine beams and time domain resources for each determined second beam index based on the pattern index and resource information. Accordingly, the relay node may transmit data using the determined beam and the at least one determined time domain resource.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 423,994, filed on November 9, 2022, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] A Network Control Repeater (NCR) can be the basis for improving coverage enhancement in coverage blind spots and coverage extension in a network. The NCR can be regarded as a repeater node or a relay node, which can be configured by Side Control Information (SCI) to perform further advanced operations, perform further intelligent operations, or perform both.

[0004] Beam management is one of the most important types of side control information that the NCR can use. The NCR can communicate and forward SCI, signals, or both from a base station to a mobile phone. The NCR can communicate with the base station through a control link, a backhaul link, or both. In addition, the NCR can also communicate with the mobile phone through an access link. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A relay node can receive a beam pattern index indicating a beam pattern. In addition, the relay node can receive resource information indicating a beam type. Additionally, the relay node can receive one or more first beam indices associated with the indicated beam pattern. In one example, the relay node can be a Network Control Repeater (NCR). In another example, the relay node can be a Wireless Transmit / Receive Unit (WTRU).

[0006] Under the condition that the indicated beam type is narrow and there is a beam index corresponding to a wide beam type among the one or more first beam indices, the relay node can determine a second beam index for a set of narrow beams associated with the beam index corresponding to the wide beam type among the one or more first beam indices. In addition, the relay node can determine beam and time - domain resources for each determined second beam index based on the pattern index and the resource information. Thus, the relay node can use the determined beams and at least one determined time - domain resource to transmit data.

[0007] In one example, the data can be downlink data sent to a Wireless Transmission / Receive Unit (WTRU). In another example, the data can be transmitted through an access link. In another example, the data can be sidelink data forwarded to the WTRU. In another or alternative example, the data can be side data forwarded to the WTRU. In another example, the data can be uplink data sent to a base station. In another example, the data can be uplink data forwarded to a base station.

[0008] In an example, the received resource information may further indicate one or more of a start time, a period, a time granularity, a time window, and a beam direction. In an example, the beam direction may be uplink or may be downlink. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present invention may be understood in more detail from the following description given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, and:

[0010] Figure 1A is a system diagram showing an exemplary communication system in which one or more of the disclosed embodiments may be implemented;

[0011] Figure 1B is a system diagram showing an exemplary wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU) that may be used in the Figure 1A exemplary communication system shown;

[0012] Figure 1C is a system diagram showing an exemplary radio access network (RAN) and an exemplary core network (CN) that may be used in the Figure 1A exemplary communication system shown;

[0013] Figure 1D is a system diagram showing another exemplary RAN and another exemplary CN that may be used in the Figure 1A exemplary communication system shown;

[0014] Figure 2 is a system diagram showing an example model for a network control repeater (NCR);

[0015] Figure 3 is a system diagram showing an example of backhaul link, control link, and access link beam resources;

[0016] Figure 4 is a beam pattern diagram showing an example of hierarchical beams in an access link;

[0017] Figure 5 is a beam pattern indication diagram showing an example of single-slot or multi-slot beam pattern indication;

[0018] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a beam management process for an NCR;

[0019] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a beam management process for a repeater node;

[0020] Figure 8 is a beam pattern diagram showing an example of indicating the spatial relationship for adjacent access beams through an index table. Detailed Implementation Manner

[0021] Figure 1A FIG. is a diagram showing an exemplary communication system 100 in which one or more disclosed embodiments may be implemented. The communication system 100 may be a multiple access system that provides content (such as voice, data, video, messages, broadcasts, etc.) to multiple wireless users. The communication system 100 may enable multiple wireless users to access such content by sharing system resources, including wireless bandwidth. For example, the communication system 100 may employ one or more channel access methods, such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA), single carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), zero tail unique word discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (ZT-UW-DTS-S-OFDM), unique word OFDM (UW-OFDM), resource block filtered OFDM, filter bank multicarrier (FBMC), etc.

[0022] As Figure 1A shown, the communication system 100 may include wireless transmit / receive units (WTRUs) 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, a radio access network (RAN) 104, a core network (CN) 106, a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 108, the Internet 110, and other networks 112, but it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments contemplate any number of WTRUs, base stations, networks, and / or network elements. Each of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d may be any type of device configured to operate and / or communicate in a wireless environment. By way of example, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d (any one of which may be referred to as a station (STA)) may be configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals and may include a user equipment (UE), a mobile station, a fixed or mobile subscriber unit, a subscription-based unit, a pager, a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smartphone, a laptop, a netbook, a personal computer, a wireless sensor, a hotspot or Mi-Fi device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a watch or other wearable device, a head-mounted display (HMD), a vehicle, a drone, a medical device and application (e.g., remote surgery), an industrial device and application (e.g., a robot and / or other wireless devices operating in an industrial and / or automation processing chain environment), a consumer electronic device, a device operating on a commercial and / or industrial wireless network, etc. Any one of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, and 102d may be interchangeably referred to as a UE.

[0023] The communication system 100 may also include base station 114a and / or base station 114b. Each of base stations 114a, 114b may be any type configured to wirelessly connect with at least one of WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d to facilitate access to one or more communication networks (such as CN 106, Internet 110, and / or other networks 112). For example, base stations 114a, 114b may be base transceiver stations (BTSs), NodeBs, eNode Bs (eNBs), home Node Bs, home eNode Bs, next-generation NodeBs (such as gNode Bs (gNBs)), New Radio (NR) NodeBs, site controllers, access points (APs), wireless routers, etc. Although each of base stations 114a, 114b is depicted as a single element, it is understood that base stations 114a, 114b may include any number of interconnected base stations and / or network elements.

[0024] Base station 114a may be part of RAN 104, which may also include other base stations and / or network elements (not shown), such as base station controllers (BSCs), radio network controllers (RNCs), relay nodes, etc. Base station 114a and / or base station 114b may be configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals on one or more carrier frequencies, which may be referred to as cells (not shown). These frequencies may be licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or a combination of licensed and unlicensed spectrum. A cell may provide coverage for wireless services in a particular geographical area, and the coverage may be relatively fixed or may vary over time. A cell may be further divided into cell sectors. For example, the cell associated with base station 114a may be divided into three sectors. Thus, in one embodiment, base station 114a may include three transceivers, i.e., one transceiver for each sector of the cell. In one embodiment, base station 114a may employ multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and may use multiple transceivers for each sector of the cell. For example, beamforming may be used to transmit and / or receive signals in a desired spatial direction.

[0025] Base stations 114a, 114b may communicate with one or more of WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d via air interface 116, which may be any suitable wireless communication link (e.g., radio frequency (RF), microwave, centimeter wave, millimeter wave, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), visible light, etc.). Any suitable radio access technology (RAT) may be used to establish air interface 116.

[0026] More specifically, as described above, the communication system 100 can be a multi-access system and can employ one or more channel access schemes, such as CDMA, TDMA, FDMA, OFDMA, SC-FDMA, etc. For example, the base stations 114a in the RAN 104 and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement radio technologies such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), which can use Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) to establish the air interface 116. WCDMA can include communication protocols such as High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) and / or Evolved HSPA (HSPA+). HSPA can include High-Speed Downlink (DL) Packet Access (HSDPA) and / or High-Speed Uplink (UL) Packet Access (HSUPA).

[0027] In an embodiment, the base stations 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement radio technologies such as Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA), which can use Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and / or LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) and / or LTE-Advanced Pro (LTE-A Pro) to establish the air interface 116.

[0028] In an embodiment, the base stations 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement radio technologies such as NR radio access, which can use NR to establish the air interface 116.

[0029] In an embodiment, the base stations 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement multiple radio access technologies. For example, the base stations 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can simultaneously implement LTE radio access and NR radio access, such as using the Dual Connectivity (DC) principle. Thus, the air interfaces used by the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can be characterized by multiple types of radio access technologies and / or transmissions to / from multiple types of base stations (e.g., eNBs and gNBs).

[0030] In other embodiments, the base station 114a and the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may implement wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.11 (i.e., Wireless Fidelity (WiFi)), IEEE 802.16 (i.e., Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX)), CDMA2000, CDMA2000 1X, CDMA2000 EV-DO, Interim Standard 2000 (IS-2000), Interim Standard 95 (IS-95), Interim Standard 856 (IS-856), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), GSM EDGE (GERAN), etc.

[0031] The base station 114b in Figure 1A may be a wireless router, a Home Node B, a Home eNode B, or an access point, and may utilize any suitable RAT to facilitate wireless connectivity in a local area (e.g., a commercial venue, a residence, a vehicle, a campus, an industrial facility, an air corridor (e.g., for drones), a road, etc.). In one embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d may implement wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.11 to establish a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). In an embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d may implement wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.15 to establish a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN). In yet another embodiment, the base station 114b and the WTRUs 102c, 102d may utilize a cellular-based RAT (e.g., WCDMA, CDMA2000, GSM, LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, NR, etc.) to establish a pico cell or a femto cell. As Figure 1A shown, the base station 114b may be directly connected to the Internet 110. Thus, the base station 114b may not need to access the Internet 110 through the CN 106.

[0032] The RAN 104 may communicate with the CN 106, which may be any type of network configured to provide voice, data, applications, and / or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services to one or more of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d. The data may have different Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, such as different throughput requirements, latency requirements, fault tolerance requirements, reliability requirements, data throughput requirements, mobility requirements, etc. The CN 106 may provide call control, billing services, location-based services for mobile devices, prepaid calling, Internet connectivity, video distribution, etc., and / or perform advanced security functions, such as user authentication. Although Figure 1A ​Although not shown, it can be understood that the RAN 104 and / or the CN 106 can communicate directly or indirectly with other RANs that employ the same RAT as the RAN 104 or a different RAT. For example, in addition to being connected to the RAN 104 that may be using the NR radio technology, the CN 106 can also communicate with another RAN (not shown) that employs GSM, UMTS, CDMA 2000, WiMAX, E-UTRA, or WiFi radio technology.

[0033] The CN 106 can also act as a gateway for the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d to access the PSTN 108, the Internet 110, and / or other networks 112. The PSTN 108 can include a circuit-switched telephone network that provides plain old telephone service (POTS). The Internet 110 can include a global system of interconnected computer networks and devices that use common communication protocols (e.g., TCP, UDP, and / or IP in the TCP / IP Internet protocol suite). The network 112 can include wired and / or wireless communication networks owned and / or operated by other service providers. For example, the network 112 can include another CN connected to one or more RANs that can use the same RAT as the RAN 104 or a different RAT.

[0034] Some or all of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d in the communication system 100 can include multi-mode capabilities (e.g., the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d can include multiple transceivers for communicating with different wireless networks over different wireless links). For example, Figure 1A the WTRU 102c shown therein can be configured to communicate with a base station 114a (which can employ a cellular-based radio technology) and a base station 114b (which can employ IEEE 802 radio technology).

[0035] In the embodiments and examples provided herein, the following abbreviations and acronyms can be used:

[0036] Δf Subcarrier Spacing

[0037] gNB NR NodeB

[0038] AP Aperiodic

[0039] BFR Beam Failure Recovery

[0040] BFD-RS Beam Failure Detection Reference Signal

[0041] BLER Block Error Rate

[0042] BWP Bandwidth Part

[0043] CA Carrier Aggregation

[0044] CB contention-based (e.g., access, channel, resource)

[0045] CCA Clear Channel Assessment

[0046] CDM Code Division Multiplexing

[0047] CG Cell Group

[0048] CLI Cross-Link Interference

[0049] CoMP Coordinated Multi-Point Transmission / Reception

[0050] COT Channel Occupancy Time

[0051] CP Cyclic Prefix

[0052] CPE Common Phase Error

[0053] CP-OFDM Conventional OFDM (reliant on cyclic prefix)

[0054] CQI Channel Quality Indicator

[0055] CN Core Network (e.g., LTE Packet Core or NR Core)

[0056] CRC Cyclic Redundancy Check

[0057] CSI Channel State Information

[0058] CSI-RS Channel State Information Reference Signal

[0059] CU Central Unit

[0060] D2D Device-to-Device Transmission (e.g., LTE side link)

[0061] DC Dual Connectivity

[0062] DCI Downlink Control Information

[0063] DL Downlink

[0064] DM-RS Demodulation Reference Signal

[0065] DRB Data Radio Bearer

[0066] DU Distributed Unit

[0067] EN-DC E-UTRA–NR Dual Connectivity

[0068] Evolved Packet Core of EPC

[0069] Frequency Domain Code Division Multiplexing (FD-CDM)

[0070] Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD)

[0071] Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM)

[0072] Inter-Cell Interference (ICI)

[0073] ICI Interference Configuration Indicator

[0074] Inter-Cell Interference Cancellation (ICIC)

[0075] Internet Protocol (IP)

[0076] Listen Before Talk (LBT)

[0077] Logical Channel (LCH)

[0078] Logical Channel ID (LCID)

[0079] Logical Channel Priority (LCP)

[0080] Low Latency Communication (LLC)

[0081] Long Term Evolution (LTE) (starting from 3GPP LTE Release 8 and above)

[0082] Medium Access Control (MAC)

[0083] MAC Control Element (MAC CE)

[0084] Negative ACK (NACK)

[0085] Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS)

[0086] Master Cell Group (MCG)

[0087] Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS)

[0088] Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO)

[0089] Machine-Type Communication (MTC)

[0090] Multi-RAT Dual Connectivity (MR-DC)

[0091] Non-Access Stratum (NAS)

[0092] New Candidate Beam Reference Signal (NCB-RS)

[0093] NR-RAN – E-UTRA Dual Connectivity (NE-DC)

[0094] New Radio (NR)

[0095] NR-DC and Dual Connectivity

[0096] OFDM Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing

[0097] OOB Out-of-Band (transmission)

[0098] P cmax Total available WTRU power within a given transmission interval

[0099] Pcell Primary cell of the Primary Cell Group

[0100] PCG Primary Cell Group

[0101] PDU Protocol Data Unit

[0102] PER Packet Error Rate

[0103] PHY Physical Layer

[0104] PLMN Public Land Mobile Network

[0105] PLR Packet Loss Rate

[0106] PRACH Physical Random Access Channel

[0107] PRB Physical Resource Block

[0108] PRS Positioning Reference Signal

[0109] Pscell Primary cell of the Secondary Cell Group

[0110] PSS Primary Synchronization Signal

[0111] PT-RS Phase Tracking Reference Signal

[0112] QoS Quality of Service (from the perspective of the physical layer)

[0113] RAB Radio Access Bearer

[0114] RAN PA Radio Access Network Paging Area

[0115] RACH Random Access Channel (or procedure)

[0116] RAR Random Access Response

[0117] RAT Radio Access Technology

[0118] RB Resource Block

[0119] RCU Radio Access Network Central Unit

[0120] RF Radio Front End

[0121] RE Resource Element

[0122] RLF Radio Link Failure

[0123] RLM Radio Link Monitoring

[0124] RNTI Radio Network Temporary Identifier

[0125] RO Random Access Opportunity

[0126] ROM Read-Only Mode (for MBMS)

[0127] RRC Radio Resource Control

[0128] RRM Radio Resource Management

[0129] RS Reference Signal

[0130] RTT Round-Trip Time

[0131] SCG Secondary Cell Group

[0132] SCI Side Control Information

[0133] SCMA Single-Carrier Multiple Access

[0134] SCS Subcarrier Spacing

[0135] SDU Service Data Unit

[0136] SOM Spectrum Operating Mode

[0137] SP Semi-Persistent

[0138] SpCell Primary Cell of a Primary Cell Group or a Secondary Cell Group

[0139] SRB Signalling Radio Bearer

[0140] SS Synchronization Signal

[0141] SRS Sounding Reference Signal

[0142] SSS Secondary Synchronization Signal

[0143] SUL Supplementary Uplink

[0144] SWG Switching Gap (in self-contained subframes)

[0145] TB Transport Block

[0146] TBS Transport Block Size

[0147] TCI Transmission Configuration Indicator

[0148] TDD Time Division Duplexing

[0149] TDM Time Division Multiplexing

[0150] TI Time Interval (an integer multiple of one or more symbols)

[0151] TTI Transmission Time Interval (an integer multiple of one or more symbols)

[0152] TRP Transmission / Reception Point

[0153] TRPG Transmission / Reception Point Group

[0154] TRS Tracking Reference Signal

[0155] TRx Transceiver

[0156] UL Uplink

[0157] URC Ultra-Reliable Communication

[0158] URLLC Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication

[0159] V2X Vehicle-to-Everything Communication

[0160] WLAN Wireless Local Area Network and related technologies (IEEE 802.xx domain)

[0161] XDD Cross-Domain Duplexing

[0162] Figure 1B shows a system diagram of an exemplary WTRU 102. As Figure 1B shown, the WTRU 102 may include a processor 118, a transceiver 120, transmit / receive elements 122, a speaker / microphone 124, a keyboard 126, a display / touchpad 128, a non-removable memory 130, a removable memory 132, a power supply 134, a Global Positioning System (GPS) chipset 136, and / or other peripheral devices 138, etc. It should be understood that the WTRU 102 may include any sub-combination of the foregoing elements while remaining consistent with the embodiments.

[0163] The processor 118 may be a general-purpose processor, a special-purpose processor, a conventional processor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors associated with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), any other type of Integrated Circuit (IC), a state machine, etc. The processor 118 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, and / or any other function that enables the WTRU 102 to operate in a wireless environment. The processor 118 may be coupled to the transceiver 120, and the transceiver 120 may be coupled to the transmit / receive elements 122. Although Figure 1BThe processor 118 and the transceiver 120 are depicted as separate components, but it is understood that the processor 118 and the transceiver 120 can be integrated in an electronic package or chip.

[0164] The transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to send signals to, or receive signals from, a base station (e.g., base station 114a) via the air interface 116. For example, in one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be an antenna configured to send and / or receive RF signals. In one embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be a transmitter / detector configured to send and / or receive IR, UV, or visible light signals. In another embodiment, the transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to send and / or receive both RF and optical signals. It should be understood that the transmit / receive element 122 can be configured to send and / or receive any combination of wireless signals.

[0165] Although Figure 1B the transmit / receive element 122 is shown as a single element in, the WTRU 102 can include any number of transmit / receive elements 122. More specifically, the WTRU 102 can employ MIMO technology. Thus, in one embodiment, the WTRU 102 can include two or more transmit / receive elements 122 (e.g., multiple antennas) for sending and receiving wireless signals via the air interface 116.

[0166] The transceiver 120 can be configured to modulate the signals to be sent by the transmit / receive element 122 and demodulate the signals received by the transmit / receive element 122. As described above, the WTRU 102 can have multi-mode capabilities. Thus, the transceiver 120 can include multiple transceivers to enable the WTRU 102 to communicate via multiple RATs (e.g., NR and IEEE 802.11).

[0167] The processor 118 of the WTRU 102 may be coupled to the speaker / microphone 124, the keyboard 126, and / or the display / touchpad 128 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) display unit or an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display unit), and may receive user input data therefrom. The processor 118 may also output user data to the speaker / microphone 124, the keyboard 126, and / or the display / touchpad 128. In addition, the processor 118 may access information from any type of suitable memory (e.g., the non-removable memory 130 and / or the removable memory 132) and store data therein. The non-removable memory 130 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), a hard disk, or any other type of memory storage device. The removable memory 132 may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a secure digital (SD) memory card, etc. In other embodiments, the processor 118 may access information from a memory that is not physically located on the WTRU 102 (e.g., on a server or a home computer (not shown)) and store data therein.

[0168] The processor 118 may receive power from a power source 134 and may be configured to distribute power to other components in the WTRU 102 and / or control the power to other components in the WTRU 102. The power source 134 may be any device suitable for powering the WTRU 102. For example, the power source 134 may include one or more dry cells (e.g., nickel cadmium (NiCd), nickel zinc (NiZn), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), etc.), a solar cell, a fuel cell, etc.

[0169] The processor 118 may also be coupled to a GPS chipset 136, which may be configured to provide location information (e.g., longitude and latitude) regarding the current location of the WTRU 102. In addition to or instead of the information from the GPS chipset 136, the WTRU 102 may receive location information from a base station (e.g., base stations 114a, 114b) via an air interface 116 and / or determine its location based on time information of signals received from two or more nearby base stations. It should be understood that the WTRU 102 may obtain location information by any suitable location determination method while remaining consistent with the embodiments.

[0170] The processor 118 may also be coupled to other peripheral devices 138, which may include one or more software and / or hardware modules that provide additional features, functions, and / or wired or wireless connections. For example, the peripheral devices 138 may include an accelerometer, an electronic compass, a satellite transceiver, a digital camera (for photos and / or videos), a universal serial bus (USB) port, a vibration device, a television transceiver, a hands-free headset, Modules, FM radio units, digital music players, media players, video game player modules, Internet browsers, virtual reality and / or augmented reality (VR / AR) devices, activity trackers, etc. The peripheral device 138 may include one or more sensors. The sensors may be one or more of a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a Hall effect sensor, a magnetometer, a direction sensor, a proximity sensor, a temperature sensor, a time sensor, a geographical location sensor, an altimeter, a light sensor, a touch sensor, a magnetometer, a barometer, a gesture sensor, a biometric sensor, a humidity sensor, etc.

[0171] The WTRU 102 may include a full-duplex radio device, wherein the transmission and reception of some or all signals (e.g., associated with a specific subframe for both UL (e.g., for transmission) and DL (e.g., for reception)) may be concurrent and / or simultaneous. The full-duplex radio device may include an interference management unit to reduce and / or substantially eliminate self-interference through hardware (e.g., a choke) or through signal processing by a processor (e.g., a separate processor (not shown) or by the processor 118). In an embodiment, the WTRU 102 may include a half-duplex radio device, wherein the transmission and reception of some or all signals (e.g., associated with a specific subframe for UL (e.g., for transmission) or DL (e.g., for reception)).

[0172] Figure 1C FIG. is a system diagram of the RAN 104 and the CN 106 according to an embodiment. As described above, the RAN 104 may employ E-UTRA radio technology to communicate with the WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c via the air interface 116. The RAN 104 may also communicate with the CN 106.

[0173] The RAN 104 may include eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c, but it should be understood that the RAN 104 may include any number of eNode-Bs while remaining consistent with the embodiment. The eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may each include one or more transceivers for communicating with the WTRU 102a, 102b, 102c via the air interface 116. In one embodiment, the eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c may implement MIMO technology. Thus, for example, the eNode-B 160a may use multiple antennas to transmit wireless signals to and / or receive wireless signals from the WTRU 102a.

[0174] Each of eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, and 160c may be associated with a specific cell (not shown) and may be configured to handle radio resource management decisions, handover decisions, user scheduling in UL and / or DL, etc. As Figure 1C shown, eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, and 160c may communicate with each other via the X2 interface.

[0175] Figure 1C The illustrated CN 106 may include a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 162, a Serving Gateway (SGW) 164, and a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway (PGW) 166. Although the above elements are all depicted as part of the CN 106, it should be understood that any of these elements may be owned and / or operated by an entity other than the CN operator.

[0176] The MME 162 may be connected to each eNode-B 162a, 162b, 162c in the RAN 104 via the S1 interface and may serve as a control node. For example, the MME 162 may be responsible for authenticating users of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, bearer activation / deactivation, selecting a specific serving gateway during the initial connection of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, etc. The MME 162 may provide control plane functions for handover between the RAN 104 and other RANs (not shown) employing other radio technologies such as GSM and / or WCDMA.

[0177] The SGW 164 may be connected to each eNode B 160a, 160b, 160c in the RAN 104 via the S1 interface. The SGW 164 may generally route and forward user data packets to / from the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c. The SGW 164 may perform other functions such as anchoring the user plane during handover between eNode Bs, triggering paging when the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c have DL data, managing and storing the context of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, etc.

[0178] The SGW 164 may be connected to the PGW 166, which may provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to a packet switched network (such as the Internet 110) to facilitate communication between the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c and IP-enabled devices.

[0179] CN 106 can facilitate communication with other networks. For example, CN 106 can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to a circuit-switched network (such as the PSTN 108) to facilitate communication between the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c and traditional landline communication devices. For example, CN 106 can include or communicate with an IP gateway (such as an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) server), which acts as an interface between CN 106 and the PSTN 108. In addition, CN 106 can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to other networks 112, which can include other wired and / or wireless networks owned and / or operated by other service providers.

[0180] Although Figures 1A - 1D the WTRU is described in as a wireless terminal, in some representative embodiments, it is contemplated that such a terminal can communicate with a communication network using (e.g., temporarily or permanently) a wired communication interface.

[0181] In a representative embodiment, another network 112 can be a WLAN.

[0182] A WLAN in infrastructure basic service set (BSS) mode can have an access point (AP) for the BSS and one or more stations (STAs) associated with the AP. The AP can have access to or an interface with a distribution system (DS) or another wired / wireless network, which conveys traffic to and / or from the BSS. Traffic from outside the BSS and destined for an STA can reach the AP and can be conveyed to the STA. Traffic from an STA and destined for a destination outside the BSS can be sent to the AP for conveyance to the corresponding destination. Traffic between STAs within the BSS can be sent through the AP. For example, the source STA can send traffic to the AP, and the AP can convey the traffic to the destination STA. Traffic between STAs within the BSS can be regarded as and / or referred to as peer traffic. Peer traffic can be sent between the source and destination STAs (e.g., directly between them) using direct link setup (DLS). In some representative embodiments, DLS can use 802.11e DLS or 802.11z tunnel DLS (TDLS). A WLAN using independent BSS (IBSS) mode may not have an AP, and STAs within the IBSS or using the IBSS (e.g., all STAs) can communicate directly with each other. The IBSS communication mode is sometimes referred to in this document as the "ad-hoc" communication mode.

[0183] When operating in 802.11ac infrastructure mode or a similar operating mode, the AP may transmit beacons on a fixed channel (e.g., the primary channel). The primary channel can be of a fixed width (e.g., a bandwidth of 20 MHz wide) or dynamically set width. The primary channel can be the operating channel of the BSS, and the STA can use the primary channel to establish a connection with the AP. In some representative embodiments, Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA / CA) can be implemented, such as in an 802.11 system. For CSMA / CA, the STA (e.g., each STA) (including the AP) can listen to the primary channel. If the primary channel is listened to / detected by a particular STA and / or determined to be busy, the particular STA can back off. One STA (e.g., only one station) can transmit at any given time in a given BSS.

[0184] High Throughput (HT) STAs can communicate using a 40 MHz wide channel, e.g., by combining the primary 20 MHz channel with an adjacent or non - adjacent 20 MHz channel to form a 40 MHz wide channel.

[0185] Very High Throughput (VHT) STAs can support channels that are 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, and / or 160 MHz wide. The 40 MHz and / or 80 MHz channels can be formed by combining consecutive 20 MHz channels. The 160 MHz channel can be formed by combining eight consecutive 20 MHz channels or by combining two non - consecutive 80 MHz channels, which can be referred to as an 80 + 80 configuration. For the 80 + 80 configuration, after channel coding, the data can be passed through a segment parser, which can divide the data into two streams. The Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) processing and time - domain processing can be performed separately on each stream. The streams can be mapped to two 80 MHz channels, and the data can be transmitted by the transmitting STA. At the receiver of the receiving STA, the operations for the above 80 + 80 configuration can be reversed, and the combined data can be sent to the Media Access Control (MAC).

[0186] 802.11af and 802.11ah support operation modes below 1 GHz. The channel operation bandwidth and carrier in 802.11af and 802.11ah are reduced compared to those used in 802.11n and 802.11ac. 802.11af supports 5 MHz, 10 MHz, and 20 MHz bandwidths in the TV white space (TVWS) spectrum, while 802.11ah uses the non-TVWS spectrum to support 1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, and 16 MHz bandwidths. According to a representative embodiment, 802.11ah may support meter type control / machine type communication (MTC), such as MTC devices in a macro coverage area. The MTC device may have certain functions, such as limited functions, including supporting (e.g., only supporting) certain and / or limited bandwidths. The MTC device may include a battery with a battery life higher than a threshold (e.g., to maintain a very long battery life).

[0187] The WLAN system may support multiple channels and channel bandwidths, such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11af, and 802.11ah, including channels that may be designated as the primary channel. The bandwidth of the primary channel may be equal to the maximum common operation bandwidth supported by all STAs in the BSS. The bandwidth of the primary channel may be set and / or restricted by the STA that supports the minimum bandwidth operation mode among all the STAs operating in the BSS. In the example of 802.11ah, for an STA that supports (e.g., only supports) the 1 MHz mode (e.g., an MTC type device), the width of the primary channel may be 1 MHz, even if the AP and other STAs in the BSS support 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, 16 MHz, and / or other channel bandwidth operation modes. Carrier sensing and / or network allocation vector (NAV) settings may depend on the state of the primary channel. If the primary channel is busy, for example, due to a transmission from an STA (only supporting the 1 MHz operation mode) to the AP, all available frequency bands may be considered busy, even if most of the available frequency bands remain idle.

[0188] In the United States, the available frequency band that 802.11ah can use is from 902 MHz to 928 MHz. In Korea, the available frequency band is from 917.5 MHz to 923.5 MHz. In Japan, the available frequency band is from 916.5 MHz to 927.5 MHz. The total available bandwidth for 802.11ah is from 6 MHz to 26 MHz, depending on the country code.

[0189] Figure 1D is a system diagram showing RAN 104 and CN 106 according to an embodiment. As described above, RAN 104 may communicate with WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c via air interface 116 using NR radio technology. RAN 104 may also communicate with CN 106.

[0190] The RAN 104 may include gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c, but it should be understood that the RAN 104 may include any number of gNBs while remaining consistent with the embodiments. The gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may each include one or more transceivers for communicating with the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c via the air interface 116. In one embodiment, the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement MIMO technology. For example, the gNBs 180a, 180b may utilize beamforming to transmit signals to and / or receive signals from the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c. Thus, for example, the gNB 180a may use multiple antennas to transmit wireless signals to and / or receive wireless signals from the WTRU 102a. In an embodiment, the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement carrier aggregation technology. For example, the gNB 180a may transmit multiple component carriers to the WTRU 102a (not shown). A subset of these component carriers may be located on unlicensed spectrum while the remaining component carriers may be located on licensed spectrum. In an embodiment, the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c may implement coordinated multi-point transmission (CoMP) technology. For example, the WTRU 102a may receive coordinated transmissions from the gNB 180a and the gNB 180b (and / or gNB 180c).

[0191] The WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may communicate with the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using transmissions associated with scalable parameter sets. For example, the OFDM symbol interval and / or the OFDM subcarrier interval may vary for different transmissions, different cells, and / or different portions of the radio transmission spectrum. The WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c may communicate with the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using subframes or transmission time intervals (TTIs) of various or scalable lengths (e.g., including different numbers of OFDM symbols and / or absolute times of varying lengths).

[0192] The gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can be configured to communicate with the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c in a stand-alone configuration and / or a non-stand-alone configuration. In the stand-alone configuration, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate with the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c without accessing other RANs (e.g., the eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c). In the stand-alone configuration, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can use one or more of the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c as a mobility anchor. In the stand-alone configuration, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate with the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c using signals in the unlicensed band. In the non-stand-alone configuration, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can communicate / connect with the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c while also communicating / connecting with another RAN (e.g., the eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c). For example, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can implement the DC principle to communicate with one or more of the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c and one or more of the eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c substantially simultaneously. In the non-stand-alone configuration, the eNode-Bs 160a, 160b, 160c can act as the mobility anchor for the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, while the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can provide additional coverage and / or throughput for serving the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c.

[0193] Each of the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can be associated with a specific cell (not shown) and can be configured to handle radio resource management decisions, handover decisions, user scheduling in UL and / or DL, network slice support, DC, interworking between NR and E-UTRA, routing user plane data to the user plane function (UPF) 184a, 184b, routing control plane information to the access and mobility management function (AMF) 182a, 182b, etc. As Figure 1D shown, the gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c can communicate with each other via the Xn interface.

[0194] Figure 1DCN 106 as shown may include at least one AMF 182a, 182b, at least one UPF 184a, 184b, at least one session management function (SMF) 183a, 183b, and possibly data networks (DN) 185a, 185b. Although the above elements are all depicted as part of CN 106, it can be understood that any of these elements can be owned and / or operated by entities other than the CN operator.

[0195] AMF 182a, 182b can be connected to one or more gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c in the RAN 104 via the N2 interface and can be used as control nodes. For example, AMF 182a, 182b are responsible for authenticating users of WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, supporting network slicing (e.g., handling different protocol data unit (PDU) sessions with different requirements), selecting a specific SMF 183a, 183b, managing the registration area, terminating non-access stratum (NAS) signaling, mobility management, etc. AMF 182a, 182b can use network slicing to customize the CN support for WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c according to the service types used by WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c. For example, different network slices can be established for different usage scenarios, such as services relying on ultra-reliable low-latency (URLLC) access, services relying on enhanced massive mobile broadband (eMBB) access, services for machine type communication (MTC) access, etc. AMF 182a, 182b can provide control plane functions for handover between the RAN 104 and other RANs (not shown) using other radio technologies (such as LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro) and / or non-3GPP access technologies (such as WiFi).

[0196] SMF 183a, 183b can be connected to AMF 182a, 182b in the CN 106 via the N11 interface. SMF 183a, 183b can also be connected to UPF 184a, 184b in the CN 106 via the N4 interface. SMF 183a, 183b can select and control UPF 184a, 184b and configure the routing of traffic flows passing through UPF 184a, 184b. SMF 183a, 183b can perform other functions, such as managing and allocating UE IP addresses, managing PDU sessions, controlling policy enforcement and QoS, providing DL data notifications, etc. The PDU session type can be IP-based, non-IP-based, Ethernet-based, etc.

[0197] The UPFs 184a, 184b can be connected to one or more gNBs 180a, 180b, 180c in the RAN 104 via the N3 interface, which can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to a packet switched network (such as the Internet 110) to facilitate communication between the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c and IP enabled devices. The UPFs 184, 184b can perform other functions, such as routing and forwarding data packets, enforcing user plane policies, supporting multi-homed PDU sessions, handling user plane QoS, buffering DL data packets, providing mobility anchoring, etc.

[0198] The CN 106 can facilitate communication with other networks. For example, the CN 106 can include an IP gateway (e.g., an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) server) or can communicate with it, and this IP gateway serves as an interface between the CN 106 and the PSTN 108. In addition, the CN 106 can provide the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c with access to other networks 112, which can include other wired and / or wireless networks owned and / or operated by other service providers. In one embodiment, the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c can be connected to the local DNs 185a, 185b via the N3 interface with the UPFs 184a, 184b and the N6 interface between the UPFs 184a, 184b and the DNs 185a, 185b.

[0199] In view of Figures 1A - 1D and Figures 1A - 1D In view of the corresponding descriptions of, one or more or all of the functions described herein for one or more of the WTRUs 102a-d, base stations 114a-b, eNode-Bs 160a-c, MME 162, SGW 164, PGW 166, gNBs 180a-c, AMFs 182a-b, UPFs 184a-b, SMFs 183a-b, DNs 185a-b and / or any other devices described herein can be performed by one or more emulation devices (not shown). The emulation device(s) can be one or more devices configured to emulate one or more or all of the functions described herein. For example, the emulation device(s) can be used to test other devices and / or to emulate network and / or WTRU functions.

[0200] The simulation device can be designed to implement one or more tests on other devices in a laboratory environment and / or an operator network environment. For example, one or more simulation devices can perform one or more or all functions while being fully or partially implemented and / or deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network to test other devices within the communication network. One or more simulation devices can perform one or more or all functions while being temporarily implemented / deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network. The simulation device can be directly coupled to another device for testing and / or use air interface wireless communication to perform tests.

[0201] One or more simulation devices can perform one or more (including all) functions without being implemented / deployed as part of a wired and / or wireless communication network. For example, the simulation device can be used to test test scenarios in a laboratory and / or an undeployed (e.g., for testing) wired and / or wireless communication network in order to implement tests on one or more components. One or more simulation devices can be test devices. The simulation device can use direct RF coupling and / or wireless communication via an RF circuit (e.g., which can include one or more antennas) to send and / or receive data.

[0202] The Network Control Repeater (NCR) can be the basis for coverage enhancement in blind spots and coverage extension in the network. The NCR can be regarded as a repeater node or a relay node and can be configured through Side Control Information (SCI) to perform further advanced operations, perform further intelligent operations, or perform both.

[0203] Figure 2 It is a system diagram of a model example for the NCR. As shown in the example in System Diagram 200, the NCR-Mobile Termination (NCR-MT) 252 can be defined as a functional entity within the NCR 250 for communicating with the gNB or base station 214 via a control link (C-link) 210, thereby enabling information exchange. In one example, the base station 214 can be the same as or similar to the base station 114a or 114b. In another example, the information exchange can include SCI. The C-link 210 is based on the NR Uu interface. The SCI is at least used to control the NCR-Forward (NCR-Fwd) 255 within the NCR 250. It is not expected that the NCR-MT 252 has complete signal and channel awareness of the signals and channels forwarded by the NCR-Fwd 255.

[0204] NCR-Fwd 255 is defined as a functional entity for performing amplification and forwarding of one or more UL / DL RF signals between a base station 214 or gNB and a WTRU 202 via a backhaul link 220 and an access link 260. In an example, the WTRU 202 may be the same as or similar to one of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d. The behavior of NCR-Fwd 255 will be controlled according to side control information received from the base station 214 or gNB. It is not expected that NCR-Fwd 255 has any signal and channel awareness. In other words, NCR-Fwd 255 or NCR 250 may not know which signals and channels are being forwarded at any given time.

[0205] NCR 250 communicates and forwards SCI and / or signals from the base station 214 or gNB via a control link 210 and a backhaul link 220, respectively, using one or more beam resources. In an example, the beam resources may be fixed beam resources or adaptive beam resources. For the access link 260, the number of beams may be greater, e.g., N beams are used to forward signals from the NCR 250 to the WTRU (e.g., WTRU 202). NCR 250 is configured or receives an indication as to which beam on the access link 260 is used to forward the signal.

[0206] Figure 3 is a system diagram showing examples of backhaul link, control link, and access link beam resources. As shown in the example of system diagram 300, the base station 314 or gNB may send all data for all WTRUs (e.g., WTRU 302) and all access link beams (e.g., N access beams or access beams 362, 364, 366) to the NCR-FWD in the NCR 350 via one or more beams on the backhaul link 320. In one example, the base station 314 may be the same as or similar to the base station 114a or 114b. In another example, the WTRU 302 may be the same as or similar to one of the WTRUs 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d.

[0207] The base station 314 or gNB may also indicate to the NCR-MT in the NCR 350 which access link beam (e.g., among N beams) to use and when to forward, transmit, and / or receive signals. For example, the base station 314 may use control information sent via the control link 310 to indicate to the NCR 350 to use one or more of the access link beams 362, 364, 366. In other words, the signals and / or information sent from the base station 314 or gNB to the NCR 350 via the backhaul link 320 will be time division multiplexed (multiplexed in time) and transmitted and / or received and / or forwarded by the NCR 350 in the access link beams. In an example, the access link beams may be N access link beams, such as access link beams 362, 364, 366.

[0208] In an exemplary scenario, the NCR operation is transparent to the WTRU. However, the NCR-MT has WTRU functionality. For example, it is generally agreed that the TDD side control information for the NCR will be based on the semi-static and / or dynamic indications currently considered in the NR specification for WTRU behavior. In addition, some WTRUs in subsequent releases may operate like an NCR. For example, the concepts discussed in this disclosure can be generalized to frequency range 2 (FR2) side link relaying, i.e., device-to-device communication as a way to extend network coverage beyond the area directly covered by the network infrastructure.

[0209] As used in the embodiments and examples herein, an NCR may be a WTRU, a WTRU may also be an NCR, and the terms NCR and WTRU may be used interchangeably.

[0210] In unmodified beam management, the beam indication is based on the channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) resource indicator (CRI); while for the NCR, the access link beam is indicated by a beam index. In addition, the beam indication in the unmodified scheme is for each channel, each UL, each DL, etc. However, in the unmodified scheme, the NCR cannot sense the forwarded channels and signals.

[0211] The NCR may support semi-static and dynamic beam management for the access link. Therefore, methods for beam index indication and the corresponding time domain indication should be considered. For example, what needs to be considered is how to effectively indicate the beam index and the corresponding time resources for beam management in the access link. Another thing to consider is the method for the base station or gNB to determine the NCR beam based on the SCI. Further consideration is how to use the beam hierarchy (e.g., wide beam and narrow beam) to enhance the beam indication.

[0212] Embodiments and exemplary solutions of this document provide apparatuses and methods for using beam patterns to indicate multi-beams. The association between beam indication and scheduling resources is discussed, where details regarding beam pattern indication are studied. Furthermore, embodiments and exemplary solutions of this document provide beam indexing and physical beam association in an access link and a beam indexing method for an access link.

[0213] As used in the embodiments and examples of this document, "a", "an", and similar expressions shall be construed as "one or more" and "at least one". Similarly, any term ending with the suffix "(s)" shall be construed as "one or more" and "at least one". The term "may" shall be construed as "for example, can".

[0214] Unless otherwise specified, the sign, symbol, or mark of the forward slash " / " shall be construed as "and / or", for example, "A / B" may imply "A and / or B".

[0215] A WTRU may transmit or receive a physical channel or a reference signal according to at least one spatial domain filter. The term "beam" may be used to refer to a spatial domain filter.

[0216] A WTRU may use the same spatial domain filter as the spatial domain filter used for receiving a reference signal (RS) (such as a CSI-RS) or a synchronization signal (SS) block to transmit a physical channel or a signal. The WTRU transmission may be referred to as "target", while the received RS or SS block may be referred to as "reference" or "source". In this case, the WTRU may be said to transmit the target physical channel or signal according to the spatial relationship referring to such RS or SS blocks.

[0217] A WTRU may use the same spatial domain filter as the spatial domain filter used for transmitting a second physical channel or signal to transmit a first physical channel or signal. The first and second transmissions may be referred to as "target" and "reference" (or "source") respectively. In this case, the WTRU may be said to transmit the first (target) physical channel or signal according to the spatial relationship referring to the second (reference) physical channel or signal.

[0218] Spatial relationships can be implicit, configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling, or signaled by a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI). For example, a WTRU can implicitly transmit a Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) or PUSCH transmission and the DM-RS of the PUSCH according to the same spatial domain filter as a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS), where the SRS is indicated by an SRS Resource Indicator (SRI) indicated in the DCI, or configured by RRC signaling. In another example, the spatial relationship can be configured by RRC signaling of an SRI, or signaled by a MAC CE for Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) transmission. Such a spatial relationship can also be referred to as a "beam indication".

[0219] A WTRU can receive a first (or target) downlink channel or signal according to the same spatial domain filter or spatial reception parameter as a second (or reference) downlink channel or signal. For example, such an association can exist between a physical channel (e.g., a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) or a Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH)) and its respective Demodulation Reference Signal (DM-RS). At least when the first and second signals are reference signals, such an association can exist if the WTRU is configured with a Quasi-Co-Location (QCL) assumption type D between the corresponding antenna ports. Such an association can be configured as a Transmission Configuration Indicator (TCI) state. The association between a CSI-RS or SS block and a DM-RS can be indicated to the WTRU by an index of a set of TCI states configured by RRC signaling and / or signaled by a MAC CE. Such an indication can also be referred to as a "beam indication".

[0220] As used in the embodiments and examples herein, a Transmission and Reception Point (TRP) can be used interchangeably with one or more of a Transmission Point (TP), a Reception Point (RP), a Radio Remote Head (RRH), a Distributed Antenna (DA), a Base Station (BS), a sector (of a BS), and a cell (e.g., the geographical cell area served by a BS), but still in accordance with the present invention. Hereinafter, "multiple TRPs" can be used interchangeably with one or more of MTRP, M-TRP, and multiple TRPs, but still in accordance with the embodiments and examples provided herein.

[0221] The WTRU may report a subset of channel state information (CSI) components, where the CSI components may correspond to at least a CRI, a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource indicator (SSBRI), an indication of a panel for reception at the WTRU (e.g., panel identification or group identification), measurements such as L1-RSRP, L1-SINR obtained from a synchronization signal block (SSB) or CSI-RS (e.g., cri-RSRP, cri-SINR, ssb-Index-RSRP, and ssb-Index-SINR), and other channel state information (e.g., at least a rank indicator (RI), a channel quality indicator (CQI), a precoding matrix indicator (PMI), a layer index (LI), etc.).

[0222] In this document, a signal may be used interchangeably with one or more of the following: SRS, CSI-RS, DM-RS, a phase-tracking reference signal (PT-RS), and an SSB, and still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0223] Herein, a channel may be used interchangeably with one or more of the following channels: PDCCH, PDSCH, PUCCH, PUSCH, a physical random access channel (PRACH), etc., and still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0224] Herein, an RS may be used interchangeably with one or more of an RS resource, an RS resource set, an RS port, and an RS port group, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0225] Herein, an RS may be used interchangeably with one or more of an SSB, a CSI-RS, an SRS, and a DM-RS, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0226] Herein, an NCR may be a WTRU, a WTRU may be an NCR, and an NCR and a WTRU may be used interchangeably, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0227] Herein, the terms "access beam" and "access link beam" may be used interchangeably, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0228] In this document, the terms "beam pattern", "beam pattern type", "beam pattern mode", "beam pattern set", "beam arrangement", "beam sequence", "state", and "state index" may be used interchangeably, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0229] In this document, the terms "control channel", "control signaling", "control information", "PDCCH", "DCI", and "side control information" may be used interchangeably, but still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0230] In this document, the terms "configure", "indicate", "receive", and "determine" may be used interchangeably, and still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0231] In this document, the terms "configure" and "indicate" may be used interchangeably, and still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0232] In this document, the terms "forward", "relay", "transmit", and "receive" may be used interchangeably, and still be consistent with the provided embodiments and examples.

[0233] In this document, the terms "beam", "beam pattern", "beam index", and any other reference to beam resources may be respectively interpreted as access link beam, access link beam pattern, access link beam index, etc., unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0234] Embodiments herein provide beam patterns for multi-beam indication. In addition, an association between beam indication and scheduling resources is provided. In addition, a beam index and a physical beam association in the access link are provided. For example, a beam index for the access link is provided.

[0235] In the embodiments and examples provided herein, the multi-beam indication in an indication may be based on a beam pattern and a hierarchical beam. In an example, the NCR may be configured (e.g., via RRC, MAC-CE, DCI) with a beam index for the access link.

[0236] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a beam pattern that is an example of a hierarchical beam in the access link. As shown in the example of the beam pattern diagram 400, the beams may be indexed independently according to the beam type. For example, the beam index may be or may include: {W1; W2; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4}. The NCR 450 may use multiple beam patterns. For example, the NCR450 may use beam W1 as a wide beam and use beams B1,1, B1,2, B1,3, B1,4 as narrow beams. In addition, in one example, the NCR 450 may use beam W2 as a wide beam and use beams B2,1, B2,2, B2,3, B2,4 as narrow beams. In another example, the NCR 450 may use beam W3 as a wide beam and use beams B3,1, B3,2, B3,3, B3,4 as narrow beams.

[0237] Figure 5 is a beam pattern indication diagram showing an example of single-slot or multi-slot beam pattern indication. In the beam pattern indication Figure 5In the example shown, the NCR can be configured with a set of beam pattern parameters for access link transmission, where the beam pattern indicates beam allocation on one or more time resources. In the example, the NCR can be configured via RRC, MAC-CE, DCI, etc. In one example, in pattern #0, the NCR uses B1,1 as the entire time / frequency resource. In another example, in patterns #1 and #2, the NCR uses two beams in the time / frequency resource. In yet another example, in a multi-slot pattern, the NCR is configured with beams used in different time resources.

[0238] In one example, the NCR receives a beam pattern index that implies an item in the beam pattern parameter set. The NCR receives information such as the start time, beam type (wide beam or narrow beam), beam index, period (if required), etc. related to the configured beam pattern. Indicates the time granularity related to the beam pattern. For example, the time granularity can include one or more of symbols, time slots, sub-frames, etc. Indicates the duration for which the beam pattern is to be applied, which can include one or more of symbols, time slots, frames, and periods. The beam transmission direction (UL or DL) can be indicated by a bitmap. For example, 0: UL, 1: DL. For example, for pattern #1, the bitmap {0,1} implies that the first beam is for uplink and the second beam is for downlink. The beam type can be indicated by a bitmap. For example, 0: wide beam, 1: narrow beam. For example, for pattern #2, the bitmap {1,1} indicates that both beams are narrow beams.

[0239] Beam indication may vary depending on the beam pattern and hierarchical beams. Therefore, only the associated wide beam can be indicated instead of indicating multiple narrow beams. For example, in pattern #1, only W1 is indicated instead of indicating {B1,1; B1,2}. For example, in pattern #3 for beam scanning, only W1 is indicated instead of indicating {B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B1,4}. For example, in the multi-slot pattern indication, {B1,1; B1,2; B1,3} is not indicated, but only W1 is indicated.

[0240] The NCR determines one or more time domain resources and the beam index corresponding to each resource according to the received beam pattern.

[0241] The NCR uses the determined beam resources to forward data in the configured time resources for uplink / downlink.

[0242] Examples include reporting the physical beam characteristics and beam selection of the access link. The NCR can report the number of beams used for the access link and the physical beam characteristics of each beam, such as the beam direction, for example, the boresight angle.

[0243] Additionally or alternatively, the NCR may only report the physical characteristics of the reference beam set and then indicate other beams accordingly, such as indicating adjacent beams, by indicating right / left / up / down. In an example, the NCR may use a one-dimensional or two-dimensional beam array.

[0244] Additionally or alternatively, the gNB or the base station may perform beam scanning on all beams in the access link. The base station or the gNB determines one or more CSI-RS resource sets, for example, for different beam types. The base station or the gNB indicates to the NCR the beam pattern (e.g., time resource) for beam scanning. The NCR uses the time pattern to switch the beams in the access link one by one. The base station or the gNB receives the corresponding CSI report, determines, and indicates to the NCR the beams to be used in the access link.

[0245] Additionally or alternatively, the NCR may determine a beam set based on direction, diversity, correlation, etc., and recommend them to the base station or the gNB. The base station or the gNB sends one or more reference signals according to the recommended beams, and these signals are forwarded by the NCR. The base station or the gNB receives the corresponding CSI report and determines whether the selected beams have acceptable performance. For example, acceptable performance may be that the reference signal received power (RSRP) and / or CQI is higher (>) than a threshold, and / or the assumed block error rate (BLER) is lower (<) than a threshold.

[0246] If the base station or the gNB finds a problem with a certain beam in the access link, it will request the NCR to dynamically change the beam. In an example, there may be a problem if the access link is not in the optimal direction based on CQI, assumed BLER, or a beam failure recovery (BFR) request received from the serving WTRU.

[0247] In an example, the base station may send indication information to the NCR, requesting the NCR to perform a dynamic beam change to cover the previously selected access link. The indication information may include: the beam being covered and the beam to be covered, the start time of the coverage, and the duration of the coverage. For example, the coverage may continue until another indication appears.

[0248] Additionally, the covering beam may only be effective under specific resources / patterns. For example, the indication information may include whether the covering beam is effective simultaneously in UL and DL, only in UL, or only in DL.

[0249] The NCR should consider changes to the previously configured semi-static beam configuration. The indication information may include an alternative narrow beam index (e.g., narrow beam) or a parent wide beam.

[0250] In addition, if the base station does not indicate an alternative narrow beam index, the NCR may determine a second beam for coverage. In an example, the NCR may determine the second beam for coverage based on a physical beam or based on a relative indication from the base station. In an example, the relative indication may indicate a beam to the left / right / above / below the first beam.

[0251] In the embodiments and examples provided herein, the null beam indication in the SCI may be based on the scheduled resources. The NCR receives the beam pattern and the corresponding configuration including the beam index. The NCR determines that one or more time resources in the beam pattern are configured with the null beam index. The null beam index may be a specific and / or (pre)-configured beam index. After detecting the null beam index, the NCR determines that no data forwarding and / or transmission is scheduled for the corresponding time resources. For example, the null beam index may implicitly indicate an OFF state for forwarding and / or receiving and / or transmission.

[0252] In the embodiments and examples provided herein, other details regarding the beam pattern indication may be provided. For example, the base station may provide an SCI type for beam pattern indication, which may include: semi-static indication information and / or dynamic indication information. The semi-static indication information may be used for periodic symbols, such as periodic reference signals. The dynamic indication information may be used for dedicated signaling. In addition, the semi-static indication information may be cell-specific, for a fixed location, etc. In addition, if the beam pattern is about to change, the dynamic indication information may override the semi-static configuration indication information.

[0253] In addition, the base station may provide beam pattern indication information according to the signal and / or channel configuration. In an example, the beam indication pattern may be different according to the signal and / or channel configuration, e.g., UL / DL, On / OFF, NCR-MT / NCR-FWD, control / data.

[0254] Examples of the indication information include reporting the NCR capabilities including the beam application time. For example, the indication information may include reporting the beam application time for different SCI lengths or contents. In an example, the reported beam application time may include the SCI decoding time.

[0255] The NCR may report one or more beam application times according to different beam pattern indications (e.g., single-slot beam pattern or multi-slot beam pattern). The NCR may report the maximum beam application time. The base station or gNB may consider the reported beam application time very early before the scheduled transmission, reception, and / or forwarding, and send the beam pattern indication.

[0256] Other examples may include associating access link beam indices with physical beams. Beams can be indexed independently for each beam type: beams of the same type can use separate beam indices, but different beam types can share beam indices. In an example, up to a maximum number of wide beams are indexed. Then, the narrow beams are indexed: for example, {W1; W2; W3; res; res; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B1,4; B2,1; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4; B3,1; B3,2; B3,3; B3,4}). In an example, the beams are hierarchically indexed for different beam types. For example, in the index, each wide beam is followed by its associated narrow beams: for example, {W1; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B1,4; W2; B2,1; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4; W3; B3,1; B3,2; B3,3; B3,4}).

[0257] Embodiments and examples of beam patterns for multi-beam indication are provided herein. For example, NCR can be configured via RRC signaling, MAC-CE, DCI, etc., where one or more beam indices are used for NCR-FWD on the access link. For example, beams can be indexed independently for each beam type, e.g., {W1; W2; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4}). Figure 4 Examples related to this method are provided, and other examples will be further provided below.

[0258] In an exemplary solution, one or more beam patterns on the access link can be used, defined, configured, or determined, and each beam pattern can be a subset of a beam pattern set. Figure 5 Some beam pattern examples are shown. One beam pattern set can be mutually exclusive with another beam pattern set. NCR can determine one or more symbols, time slots, time units, and / or time resources, and use one or more determined, configured, and / or indicated beam patterns and corresponding access beam indices for these resources. For example, NCR can transmit, receive, and / or forward signals and channels in one or more configured and / or indicated time resources based on one or more determined, configured, and / or indicated beam patterns, using one or more configured and / or indicated access beam indices.

[0259] Beam pattern configuration can be based on one or more of the following. The beam pattern can be based on a single time slot configuration 510. In an exemplary solution, a set of beam patterns for a single time slot configuration can be used, defined, configured, or determined. Thus, each beam pattern can be used, defined as, configured to, or determined to indicate the configuration of symbols within a time slot and the corresponding beam allocation, e.g., an access beam index. For example, in Figure 5In the example, pattern #0 is used as an example of single-beam indication, where the NCR can use the access beam index B1,1 for the entire time and frequency resources. In another example, in Figure 5 In Figure 5 , patterns #1 and #2 are provided as two examples, where the NCR can use two access beams within the time and frequency resources.

[0260] For example, pattern #1 can use beams B1,1 and B1,2. In another example, pattern #2 can use beams B2,2 and B2,3.

[0261] The beam pattern can be based on the multi-slot configuration 550. In an exemplary solution, a set of beam patterns can be used, defined, configured, or determined for multiple slot configurations. In one example, each beam pattern can be used, defined as, configured to, or determined to indicate the configuration of symbols within a slot and the corresponding beam allocation, such as the access beam index. In another example, each beam pattern can be used, defined as, configured to, or determined to indicate the configuration of a slot and the corresponding beam allocation, such as the access beam index, based on one or more single-slot configurations. For example, in Figure 5 In Figure 5 , the multi-slot beam pattern 550 is provided as an example, where the NCR can be configured with beams used in different time resources.

[0262] The beam pattern can indicate the arrangement for the first access beam index, which includes the number and duration of symbols, slots, and / or time units, as well as the duration and / or start offset, to define the usage location of the first access beam index. The beam pattern can also indicate the arrangements for the second, third, and up to, for example, the configured maximum number of access beam indices (e.g., N). The number of arrangements (e.g., N) indicated in the beam pattern can be determined based on NCR capabilities, duplex mode (e.g., TDD or FDD), transmission direction (UL / DL), ON / OFF state, etc. Relevant examples will be further provided below.

[0263] In an exemplary solution, one or more sets of beam patterns can be used, and each set of beam patterns can be associated with an operating mode. For example, if the NCR is instructed or configured to use the beam pattern from the first set of beam patterns, the NCR can execute the first operating mode associated with the first set of beam patterns; if the NCR is instructed or configured to use the beam pattern from the second set of beam patterns, the NCR can execute the second operating mode associated with the second set of beam patterns, and so on. The operating mode can include at least one of the following.

[0264] For example, the operation mode may include an ON / OFF configuration. For example, one or more beam patterns may include an indication of an access beam index only in one or more time windows within the beam pattern duration. Thus, the NCR may determine that the NCR-FWD is in an OFF state during the remaining time windows. In an example, the remaining time windows may be the time windows without beam indication. Related examples will be further provided below.

[0265] In another example, the operation mode may include a UL / DL configuration. For example, one or more beam patterns may include an indication of one or more access beam indices, where some of the access beam indices are for uplink and the rest are for downlink. Thus, the NCR may determine that the NCR-FWD is in a UL state for the access beam indices belonging to the set of UL access beam indices and in a DL state for the access beam indices belonging to the set of DL access beam indices.

[0266] In another example, the operation mode may include a timing configuration. For example, one or more beam patterns may include an indication of one or more access beam indices for which one or more timing arrangements are used, indicated, configured, and / or determined. In an example, a first access beam index may be indicated and / or configured to be used with a first configured and / or indicated time delay or timing advance; in addition, a second access beam index may be indicated and / or configured to be used with a second configured and / or indicated time delay or timing advance, and so on. Thus, the NCR may determine to apply the configured and / or indicated timing arrangements to the corresponding access beam indices.

[0267] In another example, the operation mode may include a power control configuration. For example, one or more beam patterns may include an indication of one or more access beam indices for which one or more transmission and / or reception power control configurations are used, indicated, configured, and / or determined. In an example, a first access beam index may be indicated and / or configured to be used with a first transmission and / or reception power configuration; while a second access beam index may be indicated and / or configured to be used with a second transmission and / or reception power configuration, and so on. Thus, the NCR may determine to apply the configured and / or indicated transmission and / or reception power configurations to the corresponding access beam indices.

[0268] In an exemplary solution, the NCR receives one or more beam pattern indices, where a beam pattern index indicates an entry in a beam pattern parameter set. In an example, one or more beam pattern indices may be received via SIB, RRC signaling, MAC-CE, DCI, etc. One or more of the following may apply.

[0269] In an example, the NCR can receive an implicit indication of a beam pattern index. The implicit indication can be based on side control information. For example, one or more received side control information messages can be used as one or more implicit indications of one or more beam patterns. In one example, an ON / OFF side control information indication can imply one or more beam patterns from one or more beam pattern sets. In another example, an uplink / downlink side control information indication can imply one or more beam patterns from one or more beam pattern sets.

[0270] In other examples, the NCR can receive an explicit indication of a beam pattern index. The explicit indication can be a System Information Block (SIB) indication. For example, the NCR can receive one or more indications based on decoding one or more SIBs. Based on the decoded SIB, the NCR can identify the beam pattern to be used.

[0271] In another example, the explicit indication can be a semi-static indication. For example, the NCR can receive one or more indications based on one or more semi-static configurations (e.g., via RRC signaling). Based on the one or more semi-static configurations, the NCR can identify one or more beam patterns and / or beam pattern sets to be used.

[0272] In another example, the explicit indication can be a dynamic indication. For example, the NCR can receive one or more indications based on decoding one or more dynamic configurations (e.g., via MAC CE and / or DCI). Based on the decoded dynamic indication, the NCR can identify the beam pattern to be used. For the dynamic indication, the NCR can receive an activation (e.g., via MAC CE) of a semi-static configuration mode (e.g., via RRC). Based on these activations, the NCR can receive one or more indications of the activated beam patterns (e.g., via DCI).

[0273] In an exemplary solution, after receiving, indicating, configuring, and / or determining a beam pattern, the NCR can receive, determine, or configure one or more of the following parameters. In one example, the NCR can receive, determine, or configure an access link beam index. For example, the NCR can receive one or more access beam indices corresponding to the beam pattern, which will be applied and / or used according to the pattern, sequence, and / or order indicated in the beam pattern. In another example, the NCR can receive a first access beam index, where the NCR can use one or more access beam indices associated with the first access beam index.

[0274] In another example, the NCR can receive, determine, or configure a start time. For example, the NCR can receive the start time at which the beam pattern can be used and / or applied. The start time can be indicated based on the number of symbols, time slots, sub-frames, frames, time units, etc.

[0275] In another example, the NCR can be received, determined, or configured with a duration. For example, the NCR can receive the duration for which a beam pattern can be used and / or applied. The duration can be indicated based on the number of symbols, time slots, sub-frames, frames, time units, etc.

[0276] In another example, the NCR can be received, determined, or configured with a period. For example, the NCR can receive the time period for which a beam pattern can be used and / or applied. The periodic timing can be indicated based on the number of symbols, time slots, sub-frames, frames, time units, etc.

[0277] In another example, the NCR can be received, determined, or configured with a time granularity. For example, the NCR can receive a configuration regarding the time unit granularity, such as a start time, duration, etc. The granularity can be indicated based on the number of symbols, time slots, sub-frames, time units, etc. Thus, the NCR can use the configured time granularity to use and / or apply the configured beam pattern accordingly.

[0278] In another example, the NCR can be received, determined, or configured with an access link beam type. For example, the NCR can receive a configuration regarding the beam type for the configured beam pattern. The beam type can be indicated based on the beam width (e.g., wide or narrow), frequency range (e.g., FR1, FR2-1, FR2-2), etc. Thus, the NCR can use the access beam index corresponding to the configured beam type to use and / or apply the configured beam pattern accordingly. For example, the access beam type can be indicated by a bitmap (e.g., 0: wide beam, 1: narrow beam).

[0279] In another example, the NCR can be received, determined, or configured with a UL / DL forwarding direction. For example, the NCR can receive a configuration regarding the uplink or downlink direction for the configured beam pattern. Thus, if the forwarding direction is configured as UL, the NCR can use the access beam index corresponding to UL reception; if the forwarding direction is configured as DL, the NCR can use the access beam index corresponding to DL reception. In an example, the access beam forwarding direction can be indicated by a bitmap (e.g., UL or DL) (e.g., 0: UL, 1: DL).

[0280] In an exemplary solution, the NCR can receive one or more beam indications based on one or more configurations. For example, if the NCR receives a first set of configurations, the NCR can receive one or more beam indications based on a first type of beam indication. If the NCR receives a second set of configurations, the NCR can receive one or more beam indications based on a second type of beam indication.

[0281] The one or more configurations may be one or more of the following. The one or more configurations may be an indicated beam pattern. For example, the NCR may determine a first type of beam indication for a first beam pattern and a second type of beam indication for a second beam pattern.

[0282] In another example, the one or more configurations may be or may include a slot format. For example, the NCR may determine a first type of beam indication for a first slot format and a second type of beam indication for a second slot format.

[0283] In yet another example, the one or more configurations may be or may include a start and length indication value (SLIV). For example, the NCR may determine a first type of beam indication for a first SLIV and a second type of beam indication for a second SLIV.

[0284] In yet another example, the one or more configurations may be or may include a channel type. For example, the NCR may determine a first type of channel (e.g., PDSCH / PUSCH mapping type A) for a first slot format, and a second type of channel (e.g., PDSCH / PUSCH mapping type B) for a second slot format.

[0285] In an exemplary solution, the NCR may receive one or more beam indications, each having different information, different payload sizes, or both, for each type of beam indication. In an example, the payload size may be the number of bits.

[0286] The different information may be or may include one or more of the following. In an example, the different information may be or may include a beam type indication. For example, the NCR may receive only an indication of one or more wide beam indices for a first type of beam indication. For example, the NCR may receive an indication of one or more wide beam indices and one or more narrow beam indices for a second type of beam indication. In an example, one or more narrow beam indices may be associated with one or more wide beam indices. For example, the NCR may receive only an indication of one or more narrow beam indices for a third type of beam indication.

[0287] In another example, the different information may be or may include the number of beams. For example, the number of one or more wide beam indices and / or the number of one or more narrow beam indices may be determined.

[0288] In yet another example, the different information may be or may include the mapping of the indicated beam. For example, the mapping of the indicated beam index to time and / or frequency resources may be determined based on the first type of beam indication.

[0289] For example, the NCR can determine a first type of beam indication for pattern #0. For the first type of beam indication, the NCR can receive a narrow beam and map the narrow beam to time and frequency resources.

[0290] In another example, the NCR can determine a second type of beam indication for pattern #1 / #2. For the second type of beam indication, the NCR can receive one or more narrow beams and map one of the one or more narrow beams for each time and frequency resource. In another example, instead of indicating one or more narrow beams, the NCR can receive a wide beam index and map one or more narrow beams associated with the indicated wide beam for each time and frequency resource.

[0291] In yet another example, the NCR can determine a third type of beam indication for pattern #3. For the third type of beam indication, the NCR can receive one or more narrow beams and map one of the one or more narrow beams for each time and frequency resource. In another example, instead of indicating one or more narrow beams, the NCR can receive a wide beam index and map one or more narrow beams associated with the indicated wide beam for each time and frequency resource.

[0292] In yet another example, in a multi-slot pattern indication, only a wide beam index can be indicated instead of a narrow beam index, and the NCR can map applicable associated narrow beams based on the indicated wide beam index. The association between the wide beam index and the narrow beam index can be indicated based on one or more of RRC signaling, MAC CE, and DCI.

[0293] In yet another example, the different information can be or can include the payload size for one or more beam indications, such as the number of bits. For example, the payload size of one or more beam indications can be dynamically determined based on the determined beam indication type. For example, the payload size of one or more beam indications can be semi-statically determined based on the maximum payload size of the applicable beam indication type, and the maximum payload size is based on one or more of the following configurations: the indicated beam pattern; the slot format; the SLIV; or the channel type.

[0294] Embodiments and examples of associating beam indications with scheduling resources are provided herein. An empty beam can be defined, used, configured, or determined, where the empty beam can refer to at least one of the following:

[0295] An empty beam can refer to a beam or beam index that indicates no signal transmission in any spatial direction in a specific time / frequency resource. For example, in a specific time / frequency resource, the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) is almost zero or zero in all spatial directions. The specific time resource can be at least one of the following, but not limited to: a time unit (e.g., a time slot, a millisecond), a set of time units, a continuous set of time units, where the time unit can be an OFDM symbol, a time slot, a physical time slot, a logical time slot, a radio frame, a subframe, a sidelink time slot, a system frame number (SFN), etc. The specific frequency resource can be a bandwidth shard, a subband, a resource block (RB), a set of RBs, a carrier, a set of carriers, an operating bandwidth, and a system bandwidth.

[0296] In addition, an empty beam can refer to a beam or beam index that indicates no signal transmission in the indicated beam direction in a specific time / frequency resource. For example, in a specific time / frequency resource, the EIRP in that beam direction is almost zero or zero. The beam or beam index can indicate the off state of a transmitter (or receiver) that can perform uplink transmission, access link transmission, or sidelink transmission based on the indicated beam information, where the transmitter (or receiver) can be at least one of a gNB, a TRP, a repeater, a relay node, a WTRU, an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, etc.

[0297] In addition, an empty beam can refer to a beam or beam index that indicates the start of a specific state, where the specific state can include at least one of the following: a discontinuous reception (DRX) state or a connected mode DRX (C-DRX) state, which can include an off duration, an on duration, etc.; an RRC configuration state, which can include RRC connected, RRC idle, RRC inactive; or a sleep state, which may include entering the sleep state and the wake state.

[0298] In addition, an empty beam can refer to a beam or beam index that can indicate a specific duration of a specific state. In addition, an empty beam can refer to a beam or beam index that can indicate stopping the execution of the current activity, where the current activity can include relaying a signal, repeating a signal, decode-and-forwarding a signal, amplify-and-forwarding a signal, etc.

[0299] In the embodiments and examples herein, a WTRU can be used interchangeably with a transmitter, a receiver, an IAB node, a gNB, a TRP, a repeater, a relay, a relay WTRU, a repeater WTRU, and a device. In addition, in the embodiments and examples herein, a signal can be used interchangeably with a physical channel, data, a PDCCH, a PDSCH, a reference signal, an OFDM signal, an OFDM symbol, modulated data, and a waveform. When it is indicated that the WTRU uses an empty beam for signal transmission, the WTRU can perform the above-mentioned empty beam transmission.

[0300] In an exemplary solution, the beam sequence can be indicated to the WTRU by control information associated with the signal sequence to be transmitted, and the WTRU can transmit the signal sequence with the indicated associated beam, where the beam sequence can include one or more null beams. One or more of the following may apply.

[0301] The control information can be at least one of the following: dynamic signaling or semi-static signaling. In one example, the dynamic signaling can include one or more of side control information, dynamic control information, sidelink control information, sequences, etc. In another example, the semi-static signaling can include one or more of RRC signaling, MAC-CE, etc.

[0302] The beam sequence can be a beam index sequence, such as a TCI state set. Additionally or alternatively, the beam sequence can be a beam set (or beam index) that can be associated with a time resource set. For example, the time resource set can be or can include a set of time slots.

[0303] The signal sequence can be a set of signals received from a transmitter, where the signals can be received in the same frequency band or a different frequency band as the control information carrying the beam sequence information. In an example, the transmitter can be a base station, gNB, TRP, roadside unit (RSU), location management function (LMF), etc. The WTRU can first receive information about the beam sequence. In an example, the WTRU can receive this information a time T in advance before receiving the first signal of the signal sequence associated with the beam sequence. Then, when the WTRU receives a signal, it can use the indicated beam index to transmit the signal, e.g., receive and forward the signal. The time T can be the WTRU capability reported to or configured by the base station or gNB.

[0304] The signal sequence can be generated at the WTRU, e.g., from the WTRU buffer. The beam sequence can be configured by higher layer signaling, and the WTRU can use the configured beam to determine the beam for signal transmission. Each beam index (e.g., of the beam sequence) can be associated with a time resource or time unit (e.g., a time slot or a set of time slots). If a single beam index is provided or configured, the same beam can be applied to all signals transmitted from the WTRU.

[0305] In another exemplary solution, the null beam can be implicitly indicated to the WTRU. For example, when one or more of the following conditions are met, the WTRU can transmit the null beam for one or more associated time resources.

[0306] If the WTRU does not receive control information associated with one or more time resources or time units, the WTRU can transmit the null beam. In an example, the control information can be SCI.

[0307] In addition, if the measurement value of a specific time / frequency resource is higher than a threshold, the WTRU may transmit an empty beam, where the measurement value may be at least one of RSRP, reference signal received quality (RSRQ), received signal strength indication (RSSI), L1-RSRP, L1-RSRQ, L1-SINR, CQI, etc. The specific time / frequency resource may be configured and associated with one or more time resources.

[0308] In addition, if the channel quality is below a threshold, the WTRU may transmit an empty beam, where the channel quality may be determined based on a measurement value. In another example, if the resource pool quality is below a threshold, the WTRU may transmit an empty beam, where the resource pool quality may be determined based on a measurement value.

[0309] In another exemplary solution, one or more beam indices that may be considered "flexible and / or unknown beam indices" may be indicated, configured, and / or provided for NCR (e.g., semi-statically via SIB1, RRC signaling, etc.). Thus, the NCR may determine that one or more flexible and / or unknown beam indices are indicated and / or configured for one or more time resources (e.g., as part of one or more beam patterns). Unless a dynamic indication for the corresponding time resource is received, the NCR may determine to consider the off state during the correspondingly configured and / or indicated time resources. Thus, the NCR may receive a dynamic indication (e.g., via DCI and / or MAC-CE) to indicate and / or configure one or more access beam indices for the time resources with the configured "flexible beam index".

[0310] Examples provided herein include SCI types for beam pattern indication. The SCI types may be semi-static and / or dynamic.

[0311] In an exemplary solution, the beam pattern of the NCR may be semi-statically indicated / configured by a base station or gNB. For example, the NCR may be semi-statically indicated and / or semi-statically configured via RRC signaling, etc., to use a beam pattern. Thus, unless the NCR receives any other beam pattern indication, the NCR may use the semi-statically indicated beam pattern.

[0312] The semi-statically indicated beam pattern may be configured only for symbols that are transmitted / received in a time slot or a group of time slots. For example, symbols for one or more periodic reference signals and / or one or more periodic system information transmissions may be configured by the semi-statically indicated beam pattern. In an example, the periodic reference signal may be a periodic CSI-RS, SRS, tracking reference signal (TRS), etc. In addition, the periodic system information transmission may be a periodic SIB1.

[0313] NCR may assume that time units not configured through semi-static beam pattern configuration and / or indication configuration may be in an off and / or muted state. In an example, the time unit may be a symbol, a time slot, a frame, etc. In an example, NCR may configure a semi-static beam pattern, where a first access beam may be configured for a first set of symbols in a time slot (e.g., symbols 1 and 2); a second access beam may be configured for a second set of symbols in the time slot (e.g., starting from symbol 5 to the end of the time slot). Thus, NCR may determine that symbols without a configured beam pattern may be in an off and / or muted state, e.g., no transmission, reception, and / or forwarding is scheduled.

[0314] In an exemplary solution, NCR may receive beam pattern indication through dynamic signaling. For example, NCR may receive one or more indications and / or configurations for one or more access beam patterns, e.g., through RRC signaling. NCR may also receive one or more indications, e.g., from a base station or gNB, to dynamically activate or deactivate one or more specific access beam patterns in an RRC-configured beam pattern set, e.g., through MAC-CE indication, DCI indication, or both.

[0315] In an alternative or additional example, NCR may receive configuration information for one or more access beam patterns, e.g., through RRC signaling. In an RRC-configured beam pattern, a subset of access beam patterns may be activated or deactivated, e.g., through MAC-CE or DCI. In an example, the DCI may be a group DCI received by multiple NCRs. Additionally or alternatively, the DCI may be NCR-specific DCI, in other words, DCI decoded only by a specific NCR.

[0316] In an exemplary solution, semi-static beam pattern indication may be configured for one or more groups of NCRs. For example, NCR may receive cell-specific beam pattern configuration information. In an example, the cell-specific beam pattern configuration may be received through RRC signaling or broadcast signaling (e.g., system information transmission).

[0317] In addition to receiving semi-static beam pattern indication information related to the NCR group, the NCRs in the group may also dynamically receive NCR-specific beam pattern indication information. For example, an NCR that has previously received cell-specific beam pattern indication information, e.g., through RRC signaling, may receive NCR-specific beam pattern indication information (e.g., through MAC-CE, DCI, or both).

[0318] In an exemplary solution, NCR can cover one or more semi-static configurations and / or indicated beam patterns of one or more time units in a time slot and / or one or more time slots in a time slot group (if the beam pattern is configured for the time slot group and each beam in the pattern is associated with a time slot) with a dynamically indicated beam pattern.

[0319] In an additional or alternative exemplary solution, NCR can cover one or more semi-static configurations and / or indicated beam patterns for one or more time units in a time slot and / or one or more time slots in a time slot group with a dynamically indicated beam pattern, except for those configured by the base station or gNB and / or for a specific time unit (e.g., symbol / slot) for a specific signal transmission (e.g., SSB transmission).

[0320] In an additional or alternative exemplary solution, NCR can cover one or more semi-static configurations and / or indicated beam patterns for one or more time units in a time slot and / or one or more time slots in a time slot group with a dynamically indicated beam pattern based on a change in the UL / DL direction. For example, if the UL / DL direction changes within a time unit (e.g., symbol) of an access beam configured based on cell-specific semi-static beam pattern configuration information, indication information, or both, then NCR can determine the beam associated with the corresponding time unit based on the dynamically indicated beam pattern. If the UL / DL direction does not change, NCR can determine the beam pattern to be used according to the semi-static beam pattern configuration information, indication information, or both, for the corresponding time unit.

[0321] In an exemplary solution, NCR can determine an access beam pattern based on signal and / or channel configuration information (e.g., UL / DL, ON / OFF, control / data, etc.). To this end, NCR can determine the beam pattern according to one or more of the following examples.

[0322] For example, NCR can configure one or more beam patterns. Based on the UL / DL configuration, NCR can determine the beam pattern for one or more time units (e.g., a specific time slot or time slot group). For example, NCR can configure a first and a second access beam pattern. Thus, if a certain time slot is configured for UL (e.g., for forwarding from a WTRU to a base station or gNB), then NCR can use the first pattern. If the time slot is configured for DL (e.g., for forwarding from a base station or gNB to a WTRU), then NCR can use the second pattern.

[0323] For example, the NCR can configure one or more beam patterns. The NCR can receive configuration information to activate a specific beam pattern according to the number of ON / OFF symbols in a time unit (e.g., time slot, time slot group, subframe, etc.). In an example, the NCR can receive the configuration information through one or any combination of RRC signaling, MAC-CE indication, and DCI indication. Based on the number of ON / OFF time units (e.g., in a time slot or a time slot group), the NCR can determine one or more beam patterns to be activated in the corresponding time unit (e.g., time slot, time slot group, or both).

[0324] For example, the NCR can configure one or more beam patterns. The NCR can receive configuration information to activate a specific beam pattern from the configured beam patterns according to the type of signal to be transmitted (e.g., control signal or data signal). For example, the NCR can configure the first and second beam patterns. If one or more control signals are configured to be forwarded within a time unit, the NCR can activate the first pattern. In one example, the control signal can be a PDCCH signal. In another example, the control signal can be a PUCCH signal. Otherwise, the NCR can activate the second pattern.

[0325] In an exemplary solution, the NCR can, for example, indicate, report, or indicate and report to the base station or gNB functions related to the beam, beam pattern application time, or both. In an example, the beam pattern application time can be or can include the time it takes for the NCR to activate using the indicated beam pattern from the time it receives the SCI carrying the beam pattern indication.

[0326] In an additional or alternative solution, the NCR can report different beams, different beam pattern application times, or both based on one or more of the following configurations. In an example, the NCR can report based on the size of the SCI.

[0327] In addition, the NCR can report based on the type of SCI signaling indicating a new beam, a new beam pattern indication, or both. In an example, the SCI indication information can include the first beam for layer 1, the beam pattern application time, or both (e.g., the SCI based on DCI carries a new beam pattern indication) and the second beam for layer 2, the second beam pattern application time, or both (e.g., the SCI based on MAC-CE carries a new beam, a new beam pattern indication, or both).

[0328] In addition, the NCR can report based on the duration of the beam pattern. In an example, the duration of the beam pattern can be or can include a single-slot beam pattern or a multi-slot beam pattern.

[0329] In addition, the NCR may report based on the beam types in the current beam pattern and the new beam pattern. For example, the current beam pattern may consist entirely of narrow beams, while the new beam pattern may consist entirely of wide beams.

[0330] In another additional or alternative exemplary solution, the NCR may report the maximum beam application time to the base station or gNB. The NCR may report the beam application time in one or more time units (e.g., symbols, time slots, absolute time (e.g., in milliseconds), etc.).

[0331] In an exemplary solution, the NCR may activate the indicated new beam pattern immediately after the beam application time expires. In another additional or alternative exemplary solution, the NCR may apply the new beam pattern after a time unit (e.g., time slot, multiple time slots, or both) configured for the currently used beam pattern.

[0332] The NCR may determine and / or expect that the base station or gNB considers the reported beam, beam pattern application time, or both when sending a beam pattern indication early enough in advance of one or more of scheduled transmission, scheduled reception, and scheduled forwarding.

[0333] In some exemplary solutions, the NCR receives an access beam indication applicable to a symbol or time slot by first determining the association between an access beam and an access beam state index for at least one access beam state index, and then receiving an indication of the access beam state index applicable to the symbol or time slot. This two-step approach may be beneficial for minimizing overhead if the number of access beams to be indicated by dynamic scheduling within a period is significantly less than the total number of access beams supported by the NCR. This is likely to be the case if the number of actively scheduled WTRUs within that period is limited.

[0334] The NCR may determine the association between an access beam and an access beam state index by receiving signaling (e.g., MAC CE or DCI). For example, the MAC CE or DCI may include an identification of the access beam to be associated with the access beam state index for at least one access beam and access beam state index. If the indication is sent by DCI, the DCI may also indicate a resource (e.g., PUCCH resource index) for acknowledging receipt of the DCI. The association signaled by the MAC CE and DCI may remain valid until a new indication associating a different access beam with the access beam index is received. Additionally or alternatively, the indication may remain valid or applicable until a timer started upon receipt of the signaling expires. If no access beam is associated with the access beam state index, the WTRU may determine a default access beam to be associated with the access beam state index. Such a default access beam may be predefined or signaled by the RRC.

[0335] The NCR may also determine an association between an access beam state index and at least one of the following: whether the NCR is transmitting or receiving in the access link; or the transmission power, which may include no transmission.

[0336] The NCR may receive, according to any solution described in the present disclosure, an indication of an access beam state index applicable to a symbol or a time slot using RRC signaling, MAC CE, or DCI, where the access beam is replaced by the access beam state index. For example, the NCR may receive semi-static signaling indicating a time pattern for at least one access beam state index. For example, the NCR may receive DCI indicating a set of access beam state indices applicable to a corresponding set of symbols, a corresponding set of time slots, or both, where the timing of the first symbol in the symbol set may be determined according to the DCI or the reception timing of its last symbol and an indication included in the DCI or configured by a higher layer.

[0337] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a beam management process for the NCR. In the example shown in flowchart 600, the NCR may receive 610 a configuration of a set of beam patterns. In the example, the set of beam patterns may be used for the access link. In addition, the NCR may receive 620 a pattern index indicating a beam pattern in the received set of patterns. In addition, the NCR may also receive one or more beam indices associated with the indicated pattern. The NCR may receive the one or more beam indices in one or more indications.

[0338] In an example of the pattern index, the beam index, or both, pattern #1 may be indicated, which includes a UL beam, a DL beam, and an indication of two beam indices 615. One of the indicated beam indices may be used for the UL beam, and the other indicated beam index may be used for the DL beam.

[0339] In addition, the NCR may receive 620 resource information. The NCR may receive the pattern index, one or more beam indices, and resource information in a single indication or multiple indications. The NCR may receive a single indication or multiple indications in the indication information.

[0340] In one example, the received resource information may include one or more of a start time, a beam type, a periodicity, a time granularity, a time window, and a beam direction 617. In the example, the beam type may be a wide beam, a narrow beam, or both. In another example, the beam direction may be included if it is unknown from the indicated pattern. The beam direction may be a UL direction or a DL direction.

[0341] In addition, for each beam index, the NCR can determine whether the beam type indicated by 650 is a narrow beam and whether the beam index corresponds to a wide beam. If the NCR determines that the indicated beam type is a narrow beam and the beam index corresponds to a wide beam, the NCR can further determine 670 one or more beam indices for the set of narrow beams associated with the indicated wide beam index.

[0342] Regardless of whether the NCR determines that the indicated beam type is a narrow beam and the beam index corresponds to a wide beam, the NCR can further determine 680 the beam and time domain resources for that beam index or each beam index based on the indicated pattern index and the received resource information. In addition, the NCR can use the determined one or more beam and time domain resources to transmit data. In an additional or alternative example, the NCR can use the determined one or more beam and time domain resources to forward data.

[0343] In one example, the data can be DL data. For example, the DL data can be sent to one or more WTRUs. In an additional or alternative example, the data can be sidelink data. For example, the sidelink data can be sent to one or more WTRUs. In another example, the sidelink data can be forwarded to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the sidelink data can be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the sidelink data can be forwarded to another NCR.

[0344] In an additional or alternative example, the data can be side data. For example, the side data can be sent to one or more WTRUs. In another example, the side data can be forwarded to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the side data can be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the side data can be forwarded to another NCR.

[0345] In an additional or alternative example, the data can be UL data. For example, the UL data can be sent to a base station, such as a gNB. In another example, the UL data can be sent to multiple base stations. In yet another example, the UL data can be forwarded to one or more base stations. In an additional or alternative example, the UL data can be sent to one or more WTRUs. In another example, the UL data can be forwarded to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the UL data can be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the UL data can be forwarded to another NCR.

[0346] Figure 7A flowchart showing an example of a beam management process for a repeater node. In the example shown in flowchart 700, the relay node may receive 710 a pattern index indicating a beam pattern. In addition, the relay node may receive 720 resource information indicating a beam type. In addition, the relay node may receive 730 one or more first beam indexes associated with the indicated beam pattern. If the indicated beam type is a narrow beam and there is a beam index corresponding to the wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes, the relay node may determine 750 a second beam index for a set of narrow beams associated with the beam index corresponding to the wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes. In addition, the relay node may determine 760 beams and time domain resources for each determined second beam index based on the pattern index and the resource information.

[0347] Accordingly, the relay node may use the determined beams and at least one determined time domain resource to transmit 770 data. In one example, the data may be DL data sent to a wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU). In addition, the DL data may be sent to multiple WTRUs. In another example, the data may be transmitted over an access link. In yet another example, the data may be sidelink data forwarded to a WTRU. In addition, the sidelink data may also be forwarded to multiple WTRUs. In yet another example, the data may be sidelink data sent to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the sidelink data may be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the sidelink data may be forwarded to another NCR.

[0348] In an additional or alternative example, the data may be sidelink data. For example, the sidelink data may be sent to one or more WTRUs. In another example, the sidelink data may be forwarded to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the sidelink data may be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the sidelink data may be forwarded to another NCR.

[0349] In another example, the data may be UL data. For example, the UL data may be sent to a base station, such as a gNB. In yet another example, the UL data may be sent to multiple base stations. In yet another example, the UL data may be forwarded to one or more base stations. In yet another example, the UL data may be sent to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the UL data may be forwarded to one or more WTRUs. In yet another example, the UL data may be sent to another NCR. In yet another example, the UL data may be forwarded to another NCR.

[0350] In an additional or alternative example, the relay node can be the first WTRU and can send data to the second WTRU. In another example, the relay node can receive one or more of the received pattern index, the received resource information, and the received first beam index from the base station. In yet another example, the relay node can be an NCR.

[0351] In an additional or alternative example, the relay node can be a WTRU. For example, the relay node can be a WTRU acting as an NCR. In an alternative or additional example, the relay node can be an IAB node. For example, the relay node can be a WTRU acting as an IAB node.

[0352] In one example, the received resource information can also indicate one or more of a start time, a period, a time granularity, a time window, and a beam direction. For example, the beam direction can be uplink or downlink. In another example, the relay node can be a network-controlled relay. In yet another example, the relay node can be a WTRU acting as a network-controlled relay.

[0353] Embodiments and examples of beam index and physical beam association in an access link are provided herein. In an exemplary solution, an NCR can report one or more parameters of one or more of its access link beams to, for example, a base station or a gNB. In an example, the one or more parameters can be one or more physical characteristics. The NCR can receive a trigger signal, an indication, and / or a configuration to report the corresponding parameters for one or more indicated access link beams based on the access link beam index (e.g., indicated by one or more of SIB, RRC signaling, MAC-CE, and DCI). Additionally or alternatively, the NCR can determine and / or report one or more parameters for one or more determined access link beams (e.g., due to NCR movement).

[0354] In an exemplary solution, the NCR can report one or more of the following physical characteristics for one or more corresponding access link beams: the total number of access link beams, the total number of simultaneously operating access link beams, the access beam type, the access beam direction, or the spatial relationship.

[0355] Specifically, in one example, the NCR can report the total number of access link beams. For example, the NCR can report the total number of antennas and / or access beams. In another example, the NCR can report the total number of access beams for each beam type. Thus, the NCR can report a first total number of access beams for a first beam type; the NCR can report a second total number of access beams for a second beam type, and so on.

[0356] In another example, the NCR can report the total number of access link beams operating simultaneously. For example, the NCR can report the total number of panels and the corresponding number of antennas and / or access beams. In another example, the NCR can report the total number of access beams of each beam type per panel. Thus, the NCR can report a first total number of access beams for a first beam type and a second total number of access beams for a second beam type, and so on.

[0357] In yet another example, the NCR can report the access beam type. For example, the NCR can report one or more beam types, where the beam type can be based on the beam width (e.g., wide beam or narrow beam), or the beam type can be based on the frequency range (e.g., FR1, FR2-1, FR2-2, etc.). Thus, the NCR can report one or more access beam types that it can support, which are based on the NCR capabilities.

[0358] In yet another example, the NCR can report the access beam direction. For example, the NCR can report one or more pieces of information to indicate the direction of each access link beam. In one example, the NCR can report the azimuth angle, elevation angle, boresight angle, etc.

[0359] In yet another example, the NCR can report the spatial relationship for one or more corresponding access link beams: for example, the NCR can report the spatial relationship between one or more access beams. The NCR can indicate the access link index and the corresponding spatial relationship. This can enable the NCR to achieve efficient beam indication, for example, to enable it to operate in multiple frequency ranges and / or to be characterized by different beam widths. Thus, one or more of the following can be applied: beam hierarchy; and adjacent beams, neighboring beams, or both types of beams.

[0360] In an example, the NCR can report information related to the beam hierarchy. For example, the NCR can determine or configure a first group and a second group of access beams, where the access beams in the second group can be associated with at least one access beam in the first group. The access beams in the second group can be in a different frequency range, for example, a higher frequency range than the associated access beams in the first group. Additionally or alternatively, the access beams in the second group can have a different beam width, for example, a narrower beam width than the associated access beams in the first group. This association can be configured such that the NCR can operate simultaneously, for example, the NCR can perform one or more of receiving, transmitting, and forwarding operations using the access beams in the second group and the corresponding associated access beams in the first group. In one example, the second group can be in the second frequency range, have the second beam width, or both. In another example, the first group can be in the first frequency range, have the first beam width, or both. Multiple access beams in the second group can be associated with the same access beam in the first group.

[0361] In another example, the NCR may report information related to adjacent and / or neighboring beams. For example, the NCR may report physical characteristics for a first access beam, where the report may include one or more indicators related to access beam indices corresponding to beams that are adjacent and / or neighboring the first beam, for example, in the spatial domain. Thus, the NCR may include the neighboring access beam indices as part of the parameters reported for the first access beam. The report may include the neighboring access beam indices in a configured or pre-configured order (e.g., right, left, up, down, etc.).

[0362] In an exemplary solution, the NCR may determine, configure, and / or indicate parameters (e.g., physical characteristics) for reporting a subset of first access beams that serve as reference access beams, where the NCR may report parameters of other access beams relative to the determined, configured, and / or indicated reference access beams. In an example, the NCR may configure, indicate, or determine to report one or more parameters (e.g., physical parameters) for a first access beam. These parameters may include beam type, beam direction, spatial relationship, etc.

[0363] For example, the NCR may indicate and / or report based on a reference access beam. Thus, the NCR may report the direction of the reference access beam, for example, reporting the azimuth angle, elevation angle, and / or boresight angle. Thus, the NCR may report the direction of one or more other access beams relative to the reference access beam, for example, an incremental value based on the difference in the corresponding azimuth angle, elevation angle, and / or boresight angle.

[0364] In another example, the NCR may indicate and / or report the spatial relationship of one or more access beams relative to one or more reference access beams. Thus, the NCR may derive a one-dimensional or two-dimensional array and / or table representing an access beam array, where the position and / or direction of a beam may be indicated relative to one or more reference beams in the access beam array and / or table.

[0365] Figure 8It is a beam pattern showing an example of the spatial relationship for adjacent access beams indicated by an index table. An example in beam pattern 600 shows a 2x4 antenna array, beam array, or both on the NCR access link, where the physical direction of the access beam is taken as an example. Assuming beam B1,2 and B2,4 as reference narrow beams and beam W1 as a reference wide beam, the NCR 850 can define, indicate, and / or report a determined value of a parameter related to the direction or spatial relationship with each beam. However, the NCR 850 may not report the value of a parameter related to the direction or spatial relationship with other beams, where the NCR 850 can report the relative direction based on, for example, a provided exemplary table. Entries in the table, array, or both can represent the position, direction, physical space mapping, etc. of the indicated access beam. The NCR can report corresponding independent arrays, independent tables, or both for different beam types, as Figure 8 shown.

[0366] Examples provided herein include beam determination based on beam scanning. In an exemplary solution, the NCR can receive one or more configurations, one or more indications, or both to perform beam scanning on one or more access beams. The NCR can receive one or more beam patterns, such as beam indices, beam types, timing, etc., to perform beam scanning accordingly. In an example, access link beam scanning means that the NCR can switch different access beams based on a time pattern to forward one or more reference signals (RS) transmitted from one or more base stations or gNBs and / or WTRUs. Therefore, the NCR can determine to forward UL and / or DL received signals and / or channels on the configured access beams based on the beam pattern. For example, the NCR can use a time pattern to switch the access link beam. In an example, the NCR can switch one access link beam at a time. The NCR can receive beam scanning indications based on one or more of the following: explicit indication or implicit indication.

[0367] Specifically, the NCR can receive an explicit beam scanning indication. For example, the NCR can receive a beam index to apply beam scanning, where one or more parameters are determined, indicated, and / or configured. These parameters can include start time, access beam switching time delay, access beam switching duration, periodicity, etc.

[0368] In another example, the NCR can receive an implicit beam sweep indication. For example, the NCR can receive CSI-RS resources and / or CSI-RS resource sets as part of the parameters indicating beam sweep (e.g., beam index). In another example, the NCR can receive an SS / PBCH block configuration as part of the parameters configured for beam sweep. Thus, the NCR can determine the start time, duration, periodicity, etc. based on the configured timing parameters, the indicated timing parameters, or both (as part of the CSI-RS resource configuration). The NCR can receive one or more CSI-RS resource sets for beam sweep, where the CSI-RS resource sets for different beam types may be different.

[0369] Examples provided herein include NCR beam suggestions and beam selections. In an exemplary solution, the NCR can determine a first set of access beams based on, for example, one or more of direction, diversity, and correlation, and can report, indicate, and / or suggest the corresponding access beams to a base station or gNB, for example, via an access beam index. For example, the NCR can determine access beams based on one or more of the following factors: direction (e.g., access beams mapped to different directions); coverage (e.g., access beams generally covering a larger and / or wider coverage area); diversity (e.g., access beams with more diversity); or correlation (e.g., access beams with lower correlation).

[0370] The base station or gNB can send one or more reference signals based on the first set of access beams (e.g., suggested by the NCR), where the corresponding signals and / or channels can be forwarded by the NCR. The base station or gNB can also receive the corresponding CSI reports and determine whether the suggested access beams have acceptable performance. In one example, acceptable performance can include that the RSRP, CQI, or both are higher than a threshold. In additional or alternative examples, acceptable performance can include assuming that the BLER is lower than the corresponding threshold. If the performance of the suggested access beams is within the acceptable range, the base station or gNB can use, indicate, and / or configure the corresponding access beams for the access link on the NCR-FWD. Otherwise, if the performance of the suggested access beams is not within the acceptable range, the base station or gNB can dynamically request, trigger, request, and / or indicate the NCR to change the corresponding access beams, for example, via MAC-CE, DCI indication, or both. In an example, the performance of the access beams may not be within the acceptable range due to one or more of the individual WTRUs reporting low RSRP, low CQI, high beam failure instances, and high assumed BLER.

[0371] Examples provided herein include one or more of access beam dynamic coverage, handover, and change. In an exemplary solution, the NCR may receive an indication (e.g., a dynamic indication via MAC-CE, DCI, or both) to cover an access beam using a configured access beam. In an example, the access beam may be configured using a semi-static configuration received via RRC signaling. Thus, the NCR may receive an indication to change a first access link beam that has been configured and / or indicated, e.g., due to one or more of a low RSRP, low CQI, high beam failure instances, and high assumed BLER reported by a corresponding WTRU. In one example, the indication may include one or more second access beam indices to cover and / or replace the first access beam. In another example, the indication may include a start time and a duration for applying the coverage. For example, the indication may include a reference to an event or other indication of when the coverage terminates.

[0372] In an exemplary solution, the indication may include one or more resources, patterns, events, and / or timings where coverage may occur. Additionally or alternatively, the indication may include one or more resources, patterns, events, and / or timings where coverage may not occur. In an example, the indication may include a forwarding direction where coverage may occur. For example, the indication may indicate that coverage may be for uplink, downlink, and / or uplink and downlink transmissions only. In an example, the coverage with the second access beam may cover the first access beam for uplink, downlink, or uplink and downlink forwarding, respectively.

[0373] In an exemplary solution, when receiving one or more indications regarding a first access beam for which coverage is configured, the NCR may determine to use the second access beam for coverage for a previous (e.g., prior to the coverage indication) received configuration and / or indication. For example, if the NCR is configured with a first beam pattern (e.g., semi-static configuration) to regularly use the first access beam, the NCR may use the second access beam for coverage each time the first beam pattern is applied.

[0374] In an exemplary solution, if an access beam (index) for coverage is not provided, indicated, and / or configured, the NCR may determine a second access beam. For example, the NCR may determine the second access beam based on the indicated first access beam and one or more of the direction, coverage, diversity, and correlation between the first and second access beams. The NCR may report the second access beam for coverage to a base station or gNB, for example.

[0375] In an exemplary solution, the NCR may identify, indicate, determine, or be provided, indicated, and / or configured to use one or more access link beam indices (e.g., for physical access link beams).

[0376] In an example, access beams can be indexed independently, where the access beam index can be determined, indicated, and / or configured per beam type. Thus, separate and / or independent access beam indexes can be used for the same type of access beam, and the access beam index can be shared across different access beam types. For example, one or more wide access beams can be sequentially numbered and / or indexed, e.g., up to a maximum number, where the first index can be determined, configured, or indicated. For example, one or more narrow access beams can be sequentially numbered and / or indexed, where the first index for the narrow access beam can be determined, configured, or indicated. For example, Figure 4 An example of an access link beam index is shown, where the index can be determined, indicated, and / or configured as {W1; W2; W3; res; res; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B1,4; B2; 1; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4; B3,1; B3,2; B3,3; B3,4)}, where "res" represents a reserved beam index.

[0377] In another example, access beams can be hierarchically indexed, where the hierarchical access beam index can be determined, indicated, and / or configured according to different beam types. Thus, each wide access beam index can be followed by one or more narrow access beam indexes, where the narrow access beams can be associated with the wide access beam. For example, Figure 4 An example of an access link beam index is shown, where the index can be determined, indicated, and / or configured as {W1; B1,1; B1,2; B1,3; B1,4; W2; B2; 1; B2,2; B2,3; B2,4; W3; B3,1; B3,2; B3,3; B3,4)}.

[0378] Although the features and elements have been described above in a particular combination, those skilled in the art will appreciate that each feature or element can be used separately or in any combination with other features and elements. In addition, the methods described herein can be implemented in the form of a computer program, software, or firmware, which are included in a computer-readable medium for execution by a computer or a processor. Examples of computer-readable media include electronic signals (transmitted via wired or wireless connections) and computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), registers, caches, semiconductor storage devices, magnetic media (such as internal hard disks and removable disks), magneto-optical media, and optical media (such as CD-ROM discs and digital versatile discs (DVDs)). A processor associated with the software can be used to implement a radio frequency transceiver for use in a WTRU, UE, terminal, base station, RNC, STA, AP, relay node, mesh node, client device (CPE), fixed wireless access (FWA) device, industrial device, TRP, M-TRP, vehicle, drone, or any host.

Claims

1. A method for a relay node, the method comprising: Receiving a pattern index, wherein the pattern index indicates a beam pattern; Receiving resource information, wherein the resource information indicates a beam type; Receiving one or more first beam indexes associated with the indicated beam pattern; Determining, under the condition that the indicated beam type is narrow and there is a beam index corresponding to a wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes, a second beam index for a narrow beam set associated with the beam index corresponding to the wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes; Determining, based on the pattern index and the resource information, a beam and a time domain resource for each of the determined second beam indexes; And Transmitting data using at least one of the determined beams and at least one of the determined time domain resources.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the relay node is a network control repeater (NCR).

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the relay node is a first wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU).

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the resource information further indicates one or more of a start time, a period, a time granularity, a time window, and a beam direction.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is transmitted via an access link.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is downlink (DL) data sent to a second WTRU.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is sidelink data.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is side data.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the data is uplink (UL) data sent to a base station.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein one or more of the pattern index, the resource information, and the one or more first beam indexes are received from the base station.

11. A relay node, comprising: A transceiver; And A processor operatively coupled to the transceiver, wherein: The transceiver is configured to receive a pattern index, wherein the pattern index indicates a beam pattern; The transceiver is configured to receive resource information, wherein the resource information indicates a beam type; The transceiver is configured to receive one or more first beam indexes associated with the indicated beam pattern; The processor is configured to determine, under the condition that the indicated beam type is a narrow beam and there is a beam index corresponding to a wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes, a second beam index for a narrow beam set associated with the beam index corresponding to the wide beam type among the one or more first beam indexes; The processor is configured to determine, based on the pattern index and the resource information, a beam and a time domain resource for each of the determined second beam indexes; And The transceiver is configured to transmit data using at least one of the determined beams and at least one of the determined time domain resources.

12. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the relay node is a network control repeater (NCR).

13. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the relay node is a first wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU).

14. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the resource information further indicates one or more of a start time, a period, a time granularity, a time window, and a beam direction.

15. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the data is transmitted via an access link.

16. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the data is downlink (DL) data sent to a second WTRU.

17. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the data is sidelink data.

18. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the data is side data.

19. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein the data is uplink (UL) data sent to a base station.

20. The relay node according to claim 11, wherein one or more of the pattern index, the resource information, or the one and more first beam indices are received from the base station.

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