Apparatus, method and computer program

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method, an apparatus, a system and a computer program. There is provided means for receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; means for determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; means for determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, the second signal condition depending on the first signal condition; and means for providing information relating to the first reference signal and information relating to the second reference signal from the apparatus to the network node during the random access procedure for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to methods, apparatus, systems and computer programs, and particularly, but not exclusively, to simultaneous transmission (Tx) and reception (Rx) indication in initial access. Background Art

[0002] A communication system can be considered as a facility that enables communication sessions between two or more entities (such as user terminals, base stations, and / or other nodes) by providing a carrier between the various entities involved in the communication path. A communication system can be provided, for example, by a communication network and one or more compatible communication devices. A communication session can include, for example, communication data used to carry communications, such as voice, video, electronic mail (email), text messages, multimedia, and / or content data. Non-limiting examples of the services provided include: two-way or multi-way calls, data communications or multimedia services, and access to data network systems (such as the Internet).

[0003] In a wireless communication system, at least a portion of a communication session between at least two stations occurs over a wireless link. Examples of wireless systems include public land mobile networks (PLMNs), satellite-based communication systems, and various wireless local area networks, such as wireless local area networks (WLANs). Some wireless systems can be divided into cells and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0004] A user can access a communication system through an appropriate communication device or terminal. A user's communication device may be referred to as a user equipment (UE) or user device. The communication device is equipped with appropriate signal receiving and transmitting means to enable communication, such as enabling access to a communication network or communicating directly with other users. The communication device can access a carrier provided by a station (e.g., a base station of a cell) and send and / or receive communications on the carrier.

[0005] Communication systems and related equipment typically operate according to a given standard or specification that specifies what each entity associated with the system is allowed to do and how it should be achieved. Communication protocols and / or parameters for the connection are also typically defined. One example of a communication system is the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) (3G radio). Other examples of communication systems are the Long Term Evolution (LTE) of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) radio access technology and the so-called fifth generation (5G) or new radio (NR) networks. NR is being standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). Other examples of communication systems include Advanced 5G (NR Release 18 and above) and 6G. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for providing, from a user equipment to a network node during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and means for receiving, from the network node, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0007] The apparatus may include means for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment in response to receiving the indication confirming support.

[0008] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0009] The apparatus may include means for providing, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message comprises at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access.

[0010] The apparatus may include means for providing information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of a random access procedure or message A of a random access.

[0011] The information related to the second reference signal includes: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0012] The apparatus may include: a component for obtaining access information from a network node in system information or dedicated signaling; and a component for determining, based on the obtained access information, to provide information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal to the network node.

[0013] The access information may include information indicating whether the network node allows or supports providing additional information during the access procedure.

[0014] The apparatus may include means for selecting a first reference signal based on a signal measurement condition.

[0015] The apparatus may include means for selecting a second reference signal based on the signal measurement condition and an offset from the signal measurement condition.

[0016] The apparatus may include: a component for selecting a second reference signal based on suitability for simultaneously receiving or simultaneously transmitting at least one of: a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for downlink and uplink using an indicated reference signal resource as a spatial relationship for uplink transmission; and a component for indicating the suitability to a network.

[0017] The apparatus may include means for monitoring for an indication confirming support for using at least one of the first reference signal and the second reference signal as a reference.

[0018] The indication confirming support may be included in a downlink control information message or in a downlink control message in a random access response, in both cases a reference signal is used as a reference for receiving the indication.

[0019] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0020] The user equipment may include the apparatus of the first aspect.

[0021] In a second aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a component for receiving, at a network node, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal from a user equipment during a random access procedure, for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and a component for providing, from the network node to the user equipment, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0022] A network node may comprise the apparatus of the second aspect.

[0023] In a third aspect, a method is provided, comprising: providing, from a user equipment to a network node, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal during a random access procedure, for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and receiving, from the network node, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0024] The method may include performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment in response to receiving the indication confirming support.

[0025] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0026] The method may include providing information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message during a random access procedure, wherein the message includes at least one of the following items: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0027] The method may include providing information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of a random access procedure or message A of a random access procedure.

[0028] The information related to the second reference signal includes: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0029] The method may include: acquiring access information from a network node in system information or dedicated signaling; and determining, based on the acquired access information, to provide information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal to the network node.

[0030] The access information may include information indicating whether the network node allows or supports providing additional information during the access procedure.

[0031] The method may include selecting a first reference signal based on a signal measurement condition.

[0032] The method may include selecting a second reference signal based on the signal measurement condition and an offset from the signal measurement condition.

[0033] The method may include: selecting a second reference signal based on the suitability of simultaneously receiving or simultaneously transmitting at least one of the following items: a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for downlink and uplink using an indicated reference signal resource as a spatial relationship for uplink transmission; and indicating the suitability to the network.

[0034] The method may include monitoring for an indication confirming support for using at least one of the first reference signal and the second reference signal as a reference.

[0035] The indication confirming support may be included in a downlink control information message or in a downlink control message in a random access response, in both cases a reference signal is used as a reference for receiving the indication.

[0036] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0037] The method of the third aspect may be performed at a user equipment.

[0038] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: receiving, at a network node, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal from a user equipment during a random access procedure, for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and providing, from the network node to the user equipment, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0039] The method of the fourth aspect may be performed at an access node.

[0040] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: provide, from a user equipment to a network node during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and receive, from the network node, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0041] The apparatus may be caused to, in response to receiving the indication confirming support, perform at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

[0042] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0043] The apparatus may be configured to provide, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message comprises at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0044] The apparatus may be caused to provide information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and to provide information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of the random access procedure or message A of the random access procedure.

[0045] The information related to the second reference signal includes: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0046] The apparatus may be caused to: obtain access information from the network node in system information or dedicated signaling; and determine, based on the obtained access information, to provide information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal to the network node.

[0047] The access information may include information indicating whether the network node allows or supports providing additional information during the access procedure.

[0048] The apparatus may be caused to select the first reference signal based on a signal measurement condition.

[0049] The apparatus may be caused to select the second reference signal based on the signal measurement condition and the offset from the signal measurement condition.

[0050] The apparatus may be configured to: select a second reference signal based on suitability for simultaneously receiving or simultaneously transmitting at least one of: a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for downlink and uplink using an indicated reference signal resource as a spatial relationship for uplink transmission; and indicate the suitability to a network.

[0051] The apparatus may include means for monitoring for an indication confirming support for using at least one of the first reference signal and the second reference signal as a reference.

[0052] The indication confirming support may be included in a downlink control information message or in a downlink control message in a random access response, in both cases a reference signal is used as a reference for receiving the indication.

[0053] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0054] The user equipment may include the apparatus of the fifth aspect.

[0055] In a sixth aspect, a device is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the device to at least: provide, at a network node, during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal from a user equipment to the network node for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and receive an indication from the network node confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0056] The access node may comprise the apparatus of the sixth aspect.

[0057] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least perform the following: provide, from a user equipment to a network node, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal during a random access procedure for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and receive, from the network node, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0058] The apparatus may also be caused to, in response to receiving the indication confirming support, perform at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

[0059] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0060] The apparatus may be configured to provide, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message comprises at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0061] The apparatus may be caused to provide information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and to provide information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of the random access procedure or message A of the random access procedure.

[0062] The information related to the second reference signal includes: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0063] The apparatus may be caused to: obtain access information from the network node in system information or dedicated signaling; and determine, based on the obtained access information, to provide information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal to the network node.

[0064] The access information may include information indicating whether the network node allows or supports providing additional information during the access procedure.

[0065] The apparatus may be caused to perform: selecting a first reference signal based on a signal measurement condition, and

[0066] The apparatus may be caused to perform selecting the second reference signal based on the signal measurement condition and an offset from the signal measurement condition.

[0067] The apparatus may be configured to: select a second reference signal based on suitability for simultaneously receiving or simultaneously transmitting at least one of: a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for uplink transmission, a reference signal resource for downlink and uplink using an indicated reference signal resource as a spatial relationship for uplink transmission; and a component for indicating the suitability to a network.

[0068] The apparatus may be caused to perform monitoring for an indication confirming support for using at least one of the first reference signal and the second reference signal as a reference.

[0069] The indication confirming support may be included in a downlink control information message or in a downlink control message in a random access response, in both cases a reference signal is used as a reference for receiving the indication.

[0070] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0071] The user equipment may include the apparatus of the seventh aspect.

[0072] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: receiving, at a network node, information relating to a first reference signal and information relating to a second reference signal from a user equipment during a random access procedure, for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and providing, from the network node to the user equipment, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0073] An access node may comprise the apparatus of the eighth aspect.

[0074] In a ninth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; means for determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; means for determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition depends on the first signal condition; and means for providing, from the apparatus to the network node during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0075] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0076] The first signal condition includes a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition includes a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

[0077] The apparatus may include means for determining a first reference signal for a first antenna configuration and determining a second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at a user equipment simultaneously using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration.

[0078] The first antenna configuration may include a first antenna panel configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second antenna panel configuration.

[0079] The first antenna configuration may include a first beam configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second beam configuration.

[0080] The apparatus may include means for determining a second reference signal further based on at least one of antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

[0081] The apparatus may include means for receiving an indication of N groups of reference signals; and means for selecting a first reference signal from a first group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals and a second reference signal from a second group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first group of reference signals and the second group of reference signals are different.

[0082] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0083] The apparatus may include means for providing, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message includes at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0084] The apparatus may include means for providing information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of the random access procedure or message A of the random access procedure.

[0085] The information related to the second reference signal may include: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0086] The user equipment may include the apparatus of the ninth aspect.

[0087] In a tenth aspect, a method is provided, comprising: receiving, at an apparatus, a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determining, based on a first signal condition, a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals; determining, based on a second signal condition, a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals, wherein the second signal condition depends on the first signal condition; and providing, from the apparatus to the network node during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0088] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0089] The first signal condition may include a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition may include a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

[0090] The method may include determining a first reference signal for a first antenna configuration and determining a second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at a user equipment using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration simultaneously.

[0091] The first antenna configuration may include a first antenna panel configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second antenna panel configuration.

[0092] The first antenna configuration may include a first beam configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second beam configuration.

[0093] The method may include determining a second reference signal further based on at least one of antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

[0094] The method may include receiving an indication of N groups of reference signals and selecting a first reference signal from a first group of the N groups of reference signals and a second reference signal from a second group of the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first and second groups of reference signals are different.

[0095] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0096] The method may include providing information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message during a random access procedure, wherein the message includes at least one of the following items: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0097] The method may include providing information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of a random access procedure or message A of a random access procedure.

[0098] The information related to the second reference signal may include: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0099] In an eleventh aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determine a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; determine a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition depends on the first signal condition; and provide, from the apparatus to the network node during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0100] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0101] The first signal condition may include a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition may include a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

[0102] The apparatus may be caused to determine a first reference signal for a first antenna configuration and a second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at a user equipment simultaneously using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration.

[0103] The first antenna configuration may include a first antenna panel configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second antenna panel configuration.

[0104] The first antenna configuration may include a first beam configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second beam configuration.

[0105] The apparatus may be caused to determine the second reference signal further based on at least one of the antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

[0106] The apparatus may be caused to: receive an indication of N groups of reference signals; and select a first reference signal from a first group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals and a second reference signal from a second group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first group of reference signals and the second group of reference signals are different.

[0107] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0108] The apparatus may be configured to provide, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message comprises at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0109] The apparatus may be caused to provide information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and to provide information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of the random access procedure or message A of the random access procedure.

[0110] The information related to the second reference signal may include: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0111] In a twelfth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least perform the following: receive a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determine a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; determine a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition depends on the first signal condition; and provide, from the apparatus to the network node during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0112] The first reference signal and the second reference signal may each include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

[0113] The first signal condition may include a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition may include a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

[0114] The apparatus may be caused to perform: determining a first reference signal for a first antenna configuration, and determining a second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at a user equipment simultaneously using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration.

[0115] The first antenna configuration may include a first antenna panel configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second antenna panel configuration.

[0116] The first antenna configuration may include a first beam configuration, and the second antenna configuration may include a second beam configuration.

[0117] The apparatus may be caused to determine the second reference signal further based on at least one of the antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

[0118] The apparatus may be caused to perform an instruction to receive N groups of reference signals; and select a first reference signal from a first group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, and select a second reference signal from a second group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first group of reference signals and the second group of reference signals are different.

[0119] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

[0120] The apparatus may be configured to provide, during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal in at least one message, wherein the message comprises at least one of: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A of the random access procedure.

[0121] The apparatus may be caused to perform: providing information related to the first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing information related to the second reference signal in message 3 of a random access procedure or message A of a random access procedure.

[0122] The information related to the second reference signal may include: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

[0123] In one aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions for causing an apparatus to at least perform the method according to the above aspect.

[0124] In the above, many different embodiments have been described. It should be understood that further embodiments can be provided by combining any two or more of the embodiments described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0125] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0126] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example 5GS communication system is shown;

[0127] Figure 2 A schematic diagram illustrating an example mobile communication device is shown;

[0128] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an example control device is shown;

[0129] Figure 4a A signalling diagram illustrating an example 4-step RACH procedure;

[0130] Figure 4b A signalling diagram illustrating an example 2-step RACH procedure;

[0131] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a method according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0132] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a method according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0133] Figure 7 shows a partial signaling flow of a RACH procedure according to an example embodiment;

[0134] Figure 8 A flow chart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0135] Before explaining the examples in detail, refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 Certain general principles of wireless communication systems and mobile communication devices are briefly explained to aid understanding of the technology on which the described examples are based.

[0136] An example of a suitable communication system is the 5G or NR concept. The network architecture in NR can be similar to that of Advanced LTE. The base station of the NR system can be called a next-generation NodeB (gNB). Changes in the network architecture may depend on the need to support various radio technologies and more refined quality of service (QoS) support, as well as some on-demand requirements, such as supporting QoS levels for quality of experience (QoE) from the user's perspective. In addition, network-aware services and applications, and service- and application-aware networks may bring changes to the architecture. These are related to information-centric networking (ICN) and user-centric content delivery network (UC-CDN) approaches. NR can use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, more base stations or nodes than LTE (the so-called small cell concept), which includes a macro site operating in collaboration with a small station, and may also adopt various radio technologies for better coverage and enhanced data rates.

[0137] Additional networks may utilize network function virtualization (NFV), which is a network architecture concept that proposes virtualizing network node functions into "building blocks" or entities that can be operably connected or linked together to provide services. A virtualized network function (VNF) may include one or more virtual machines that use standard or general-purpose types of servers rather than custom hardware to run computer program code. Cloud computing or data storage may also be utilized. In radio communications, this may mean that node operations are performed at least in part in a server, host, or node that is operably coupled to a remote radio head. Node operations may also be distributed across multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the division of labor between core network operations and base station operations may be different from that in LTE, or even non-existent.

[0138] Figure 1 A schematic representation of a 5G system (5GS) 100 is shown. The 5GS may include a user equipment (UE) 102 (also referred to as a communication device or terminal), a 5G radio access network (5G RAN) 104, a 5G core network (5GCN) 106, one or more internal or external application functions (AFs) 108, and one or more data networks (DNs) 110.

[0139] An example 5G core network (CN) includes functional entities. The 5GCN 106 may include one or more access and mobility management functions (AMFs) 112, one or more session management functions (SMFs) 114, an authentication server function (AUSF) 116, a unified data management (UDM) 118, one or more user plane functions (UPFs) 120, a unified data repository (UDR) 122, and / or a network exposure function (NEF) 124. The UPF is controlled by the SMF (session management function) that receives policies from the PCF (policy control function).

[0140] The CN is connected to the UE via the Radio Access Network (RAN). The 5G RAN may include one or more gNodeB (gNB) Distributed Unit (DU) functions, which are connected to one or more gNodeB (gNB) Centralized Unit (CU) functions. The RAN may include one or more access nodes.

[0141] The user plane function (UPF) called PDU Session Anchor (PSA) can be responsible for forwarding frames back and forth between the DN and the channels established over 5G, which are towards (multiple) UEs exchanging traffic with the DN.

[0142] Now refer to Figure 2 Describing in more detail possible mobile communication devices, Figure 2 A partial schematic cross-sectional view of a communication device 200 is shown. Such a communication device is generally referred to as a user equipment (UE) or terminal. Suitable mobile communication devices can be provided by any device capable of sending and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting examples include mobile stations (MS) or mobile devices, such as mobile phones or so-called "smartphones", computers equipped with wireless interface cards or other wireless interface facilities (e.g., USB dongles), personal data assistants (PDAs) or tablet computers equipped with wireless communication capabilities, voice over IP (VoIP) phones, portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices (such as digital cameras), game terminal devices, music storage and playback appliances, vehicle-mounted wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop computer mounted devices (LMEs), smart devices, wireless client equipment (CPEs), or any combination thereof. Mobile communication devices can provide, for example, data communications for carrying communications (such as voice, email, text messages, multimedia, etc.). Therefore, a variety of services can be proposed and provided to users via their communication devices. Non-limiting examples of these services include two-way or multi-way calls, data communications or multimedia services, or simply access to a data communications network system, such as the Internet. Broadcast or multicast data may also be provided to users. Non-limiting examples of content include downloads, television and radio programs, videos, advertisements, various alerts, and other information.

[0143] The mobile device is typically equipped with at least one data processing entity 201, at least one memory 202, and other possible components 203, which are used to assist in performing the tasks it is designed to perform with software and hardware, including controlling access and communication with access systems and other communication devices. Data processing, storage, and other related components can be provided on appropriate circuit boards and / or in chipsets. This feature is represented by reference numeral 204. The user can control the operation of the mobile device through a suitable user interface (such as a keyboard 205, voice commands, a touch screen or touchpad, a combination thereof, etc.). A display 208, a speaker, and a microphone may also be provided. In addition, the mobile communication device may include appropriate connectors (wired or wireless) to connect to other devices and / or for connecting external accessories (such as a hands-free device) to it.

[0144] The mobile device 200 may receive signals over the air or radio interface 207 via appropriate means for receiving and may transmit signals via appropriate means for transmitting radio signals. Figure 2 In FIG, the transceiver arrangement is schematically indicated by block 206. The transceiver arrangement 206 may be provided, for example, by a radio part and an associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement may be arranged internally or externally to the mobile device.

[0145] Figure 3 An example of a control device 300 for a communications system is shown, for example, coupled to and / or used to control a station of an access system (such as a RAN node, such as a base station, eNB or gNB, a relay node, or a core network node (such as an MME or a serving gateway (S-GW) or a packet data network gateway (P-GW)), or a core network function (such as an AMF / SMF), or a server or host). The method can be implemented in a single control device or across more than one control device. The control device can be integrated with a node or module of the core network or RAN, or located external to a node or module of the core network or RAN. In some embodiments, the base station includes a separate control device unit or module. In other embodiments, the control device can be another network element, such as a radio network controller or spectrum controller. In some embodiments, each base station can have such a control device, as well as the control device provided in the radio network controller. The control device 300 can be arranged to provide communication control in the service area of the system. The control device 300 includes at least one memory 301, at least one data processing unit 302, 303, and an input / output interface 304. The device may be coupled to a receiver and a transmitter of the base station via the interface control device.The receiver and / or the transmitter may be implemented as a radio front end or a remote radio head.

[0146] The following involves 3GPP physical layer design, such as the initial access procedure (e.g., RACH) in 6G.

[0147] Two types of random access procedures are supported: Figure 4a The 4-step RA type with MSG1 shown, and Figure 4b 2-step RA type with MSGA is shown. Both types of RA procedures support contention-based random access (CBRA) and non-contention random access (CFRA).

[0148] The UE selects a random access type based on network configuration when the random access procedure is initiated. When CFRA resources are not configured, the UE uses the RSRP threshold to select between the 2-step RA type and the 4-step RA type. When CFRA resources for the 4-step RA type are configured, the UE performs random access using the 4-step RA type. When CFRA resources for the 2-step RA type are configured, the UE performs random access using the 2-step RA type.

[0149] The network will not configure CFRA resources for both 4-step and 2-step RA types for the bandwidth part (BWP) at the same time. CFRA with 2-step RA type is only supported for handover.

[0150] The NR RA procedure (contention-based random access (CBRA)) is as follows.

[0151] The 4-step RA type's MSG1 consists of a preamble on the PRACH. After MSG1 transmission, the UE monitors for a response from the network within a configured window. For CFRA, a dedicated preamble for MSG1 transmission is assigned by the network, and the UE terminates the random access procedure upon receiving a random access response from the network.

[0152] For CBRA, upon receiving a random access response, the UE transmits MSG3 using the UL grant scheduled in the response and monitors contention resolution. If contention resolution is unsuccessful after (multiple) MSG3 (re)transmissions, the UE returns to MSG1 transmission.

[0153] The 2-step RA type of MSGA includes a preamble on the PRACH and a payload on the PUSCH. After the MSGA transmission, the UE monitors for a response from the network within a configured window. For CFRA, dedicated preamble and PUSCH resources are configured for the MSGA transmission, and upon receiving the network response, the UE terminates the random access procedure.

[0154] For CBRA, if contention resolution is successful when a network response is received, the UE terminates the random access procedure. However, if a fallback indication is received in MSGB, the UE uses the UL grant scheduled in the fallback indication to perform MSG3 transmission and monitor contention resolution, as shown in the figure. If contention resolution is unsuccessful after (multiple) MSG3 (re)transmissions, the UE returns to MSGA transmission.

[0155] If the random access procedure with the 2-step RA type is not completed after multiple MSGA transmissions, the UE may be configured to switch to the CBRA with the 4-step RA type.

[0156] In initial access, the UE selects a DL RS (eg, SSB) for the first access.

[0157] In a cell, there can be one or more SSBs to support beamforming for SSBs. SSB bursts are transmitted with a certain periodicity within the cell. The default periodicity is 20 milliseconds. Table 1 summarizes the SSB-related parameters in FR1 and FR2 and provides parameters for the 6G frequency range between 7 and 20 GHz (FR3).

[0158]

[0159]

[0160] Table 1

[0161] It would be useful to enable simultaneous multiple TRP operation during and / or after the initial access procedure. Such operation is not defined in 5G NR.

[0162] Figure 5 1 shows a flow chart of a method according to an example embodiment. The method may be performed at a UE, for example, as described in reference Figure 2 defined.

[0163] In 501, the method includes providing, from a user equipment to a network node during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

[0164] In 502, the method includes receiving an indication from a network node confirming support of at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0165] The method may include performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment in response to receiving the indication confirming support.

[0166] Figure 6 A flow chart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. The method may be performed at a network node, such as an access node (e.g., a gNB).

[0167] In 601, the method comprises receiving, at a network node, from a user equipment during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

[0168] In 602, the method includes providing, from a network node to a user equipment, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0169] The first reference signal may include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block. The second reference signal may include at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block. The first reference signal may be defined as the RS selected for PRACH preamble selection.

[0170] In any examples herein, the first (and / or second) reference signal may refer to a downlink reference signal. As an example, the downlink reference signal may refer to an SSB or a CSI-RS.

[0171] For example, the first reference signal may be a first SSB (also referred to as a primary SSB), and the second reference signal may be a second SSB (also referred to as an additional SSB).

[0172] The information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource that is suitable for (or can be used by the UE) simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource that can be used for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource that is suitable for simultaneous downlink reception; a reference signal resource that is suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource that is suitable for downlink and uplink transmission. For example, a reference signal resource that is suitable for (simultaneous) transmission or reception may refer to a reference signal that can be used as a reference for transmission and / or reception. For example, a reference signal resource that is suitable for (simultaneous) transmission or reception may refer to a reference signal that the UE can use as a reference for transmission and / or reception. In other words, the UE can indicate the performance or capability or applicability of (simultaneously) transmitting / receiving signals / channels (e.g., PDSCH / PDCCH / PUCCH / PUSCH) associated with the first reference signal and the second reference signal.

[0173] In some examples, using a reference signal as a reference for transmission can refer to receiving / transmitting one or more signals / channels (or DMRS ports of a channel) with similar characteristics, or (downlink) reference signals being used as references for uplink transmissions (PUCCH / PUSCH and / or DMRS of PUCCH / PUSCH). In some examples, the characteristics can refer to QCL relationships (represented by different types). The quasi-co-location type can be one of the following values:

[0174] - "typeA": {Doppler shift, Doppler spread, average delay, delay spread}

[0175] - "typeB": {Doppler shift, Doppler spread}

[0176] - "typeC": {Doppler shift, average delay}

[0177] - "typeD": {spatial Rx parameters}

[0178] In an example embodiment, the information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal (also referred to herein as additional information) may include at least one of the following items: SSB resources for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission, SSB resources used only for simultaneous uplink transmission (i.e., STxMP, simultaneous transmission, multi-panel), SSB resources used only for uplink transmission (no simultaneous uplink), and SSB resources used only for downlink and uplink transmission (no simultaneous).

[0179] Additional information (e.g., information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal, such as an indicated set of reference signals) may allow the UE to indicate to the network that it is capable of performing simultaneous reception and / or transmission (e.g., simultaneous transmission across multiple panels (STxMP)) of DL or UL signals and channels using the reference signal as a reference (e.g., a QCL reference) (e.g., mTRP operation with simultaneous transmission and / or reception). The additional information may allow the UE to indicate the capability of simultaneous transmission / reception as part of a random access procedure.

[0180] refer to Figure 5The described method may include selecting a second reference signal based on suitability (or availability or UE capability) for simultaneously receiving or simultaneously transmitting at least one of the following: a reference signal resource suitable (or available) for simultaneous uplink transmission, a reference signal resource suitable (or available) for simultaneous downlink reception, a reference signal resource used for uplink transmission, and a reference signal resource used for downlink reception. For uplink transmission, the indicated reference signal resource may be used as a spatial relation reference signal. The method may also include indicating the capability / suitability / availability to a network.

[0181] In an example embodiment, the UE selects a first SSB resource and a second SSB resource to be indicated to the network. The UE is configured to use the indicated SSB as a spatial relationship for uplink transmission to select at least one of the following: an SSB resource for which it can simultaneously receive and / or simultaneously transmit (one selected for PRACH preamble selection and the other additional), or a downlink reference signal resource (SSB) for which it can only use for simultaneous uplink transmission, or an SSB resource for uplink transmission only, or an SSB resource for downlink and uplink (not simultaneously).

[0182] The provided additional information may depend on the additional information provided by the network node. For example, whether the UE is allowed to provide additional information to the network may depend on the provision of access information.

[0183] refer to Figure 5 The method may include: acquiring access information from a network node, and determining, based on the acquired access information, to provide information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal to the network node. The access information may be provided by the network node in system information or dedicated signaling.

[0184] The access information may include, for example, an indication of RACH resources or information that may be signaled by the UE during a RACH procedure.

[0185] In an example embodiment, the UE reads system information to obtain access information for a cell, or receives configuration of access information in a dedicated manner to determine whether it can provide additional information to the network.

[0186] The access information may include information indicating whether the network node allows or supports providing additional information during the access procedure. The UE may determine that it can provide additional information (eg, first DL RS resources and second DL RS resources) based on the access information.

[0187] In one example embodiment, the access information may include a RACH configuration. In this example embodiment, the RACH configuration provided by the network provides an indication of whether the cell allows or supports providing additional information (eg, mTRP related information) during the access procedure.

[0188] RACH configuration can be provided using SI broadcast or dedicated signaling. RACH configuration can use the following mechanism to indicate support. RACH configuration can provide an association between a first reference signal and a second reference signal (e.g., an SSB index), as well as an additional association with a PRACH preamble. For example, SSB#k and SSB#j can be associated with each other (a group) and additionally associated with a PRACH preamble index X. A PRACH preamble X received by the network indicates that the UE that sent the preamble can simultaneously receive the associated SSB#k and SSB#j.

[0189] In an example embodiment, the transmission of additional information may be triggered by a PDCCH order, which may include a field indicating to the UE that it should perform a PDCCH ordered RACH (CBRA) procedure and select and send additional SSBs according to embodiments herein.

[0190] This procedure can be applied to both 2-step and 4-step RACH.

[0191] For example, the information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal may be provided in at least one message during a random access procedure, wherein the message includes at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3, or message A.

[0192] In an example embodiment, the additional information is provided during cell access (RACH) using at least one message (msg.3 or msg.A).

[0193] The information related to the first reference signal may be provided in the random access preamble, while the information related to the second reference signal may be provided in message 3 or message A.

[0194] For example, as described above, there may be a preamble associated with additional information (e.g., the first SSB resource and the second SSB resource may be associated with (multiple) PRACH preambles). In this option, the PRACH preamble (or a set of preambles) is associated with the first reference signal and the second reference signal, i.e., the preamble transmission indicates two reference signals.

[0195] In an alternative embodiment, the UE selects a preamble associated with the first reference signal such that the preamble indicates the first reference signal and further information about the second reference signal will appear as part of the RA procedure.

[0196] For example, the UE may select a PRACH preamble corresponding to the first reference signal and transmit information related to the second reference signal to the network in msg.3 or msg.A.

[0197] In an example embodiment, the UE is configured to indicate in msg.3 or msg.A whether the reference signal selected for the RACH process (e.g., the first reference signal) and the reference signal for the additional signal transmission can be used for simultaneous DL reception, simultaneous UL transmission, or both. In an example embodiment, msg.3 or msg.A may include a field indicating the availability of the first reference signal and the second reference signal. In an example embodiment, the first value of the indication indicates that the second reference signal can only be used for DL, and the second value may indicate that the second reference signal can be used for both UL and DL. Alternatively, the second value may indicate that the second reference signal can only be used for UL.

[0198] In an example embodiment, an indication of the presence of additional information in msg.3 or msg.A may be carried in a bit field. If the bit field (indicating or) is set to a first value, the UE indicates that additional reference signals are signaled as part of msg.3 or msg.A. If the bit field (indicating or) is set to a second value, no additional information (e.g., SSB index) is present in msg.3 or msg.A (for simultaneous TX / RX operation or multiple TRP operation).

[0199] The information related to the second reference signal may include an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal (eg, an SSB time position index) or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal (such as a resource identifier).

[0200] In one embodiment, the provision of additional SSBs may be as follows. In one example, the presence of an additional SSB (index) may be indicated by a bit field. The SSB identifier signaled in the uplink message may correspond to the temporal position index of the SSB transmitted in the cell. The SSB identifier signaled in the uplink message may correspond to the logical index of the SSB actually transmitted in the cell.

[0201] refer to Figure 5 The method may include monitoring for an indication confirming support for using at least one of the first reference signal and the second reference signal as a reference.

[0202] The indication confirming support may be included in a downlink control information message or in a downlink control message in a random access response, in both cases a reference signal is used as a reference for receiving the indication.

[0203] In one example embodiment, the UE may monitor for random access responses on both SSBs. Alternatively, it may monitor for RAR on only one of the SSBs. The UE may receive network confirmation of the first and second SSB indications in msg.4 or msg.B, for example, via DCI.

[0204] In an example embodiment, the UE may monitor msg.4 or msg.B using the primary SSB or the additional SSB or both as QCL references (when using both, the UE may assume PDCCH-SFN transmission).

[0205] In an example embodiment, the network may confirm the UE indication using a bit field in a DCI message that schedules msg.4 or msg.B using the first SSB or the second SSB as the QCL source for the PDCCH.

[0206] In an example embodiment, the network may confirm the indication of the first SSB and the second SSB by sending a DCI scheduling msg.4 or msg.B using both the first SSB and the second SSB as QCL sources.

[0207] After the UE receives the confirmation, it may continue to monitor the PDCCH on the first and second SSBs as QCL sources.

[0208] In an example embodiment, the UE may use simultaneous transmission to send Msg.4ACK or Msg.BACK. The network may confirm the use of the first and second SSBs for Msg.4PUCCH HARQ-ACK transmission by providing an indication in the DCI trigger Msg.4 and Msg.4PUCCH. The UE will use the SFN transmission scheme to send PUCCH.

[0209] If an acknowledgement is not provided, the UE shall not assume simultaneous transmission operation due to the RACH procedure.

[0210] Upon completion of the RA procedure in which the additional SSB information is provided, the UE continues to monitor the PDCCH (depending on the indication) assuming both SSBs as QCL sources and transmits the PUCCH assuming both SSBs as spatial references. This is an example of performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment in response to receiving an indication confirming support.

[0211] Figure 7 A partial signaling flow for a RACH procedure according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0212] In 701, the UE sends Msg3 to the network. Msg3 includes an indication of the UE's ability to use for STxMP PUCCH and an indication of additional SSBs. The first SSB is associated with the PRACH preamble. The UE selects additional SSBs based on the criteria by which the UE can send STxMP transmissions. Optionally, the SSBs may be associated with different sets of SSBs (e.g., associated with different TRPs). In one example, system information, SI (or dedicated signaling) may provide several (different) sets of SSBs for selection (e.g., implicitly mapped to TRPs).

[0213] In 702, the network confirms the STxMP PUCCH for Msg4-HARQ-ACK. If the UE provides two SSBs, the UE will assume that two SSBs are used to receive Msg4 (PDCCH-SFN and PDSCH-SFN). The network can still choose between single TRP (primary SSB) and multiple TRP (two SSBs).

[0214] In 703, the UE provides PUCCH-ACK using STxMP.

[0215] refer to Figure 5 The method may include selecting a first reference signal based on a signal measurement condition. The signal measurement may be RSRP, RSRQ, or SNIR. The signal measurement condition may be a threshold. A second reference signal may be selected based on the signal measurement condition. The second reference signal may also be selected based on an offset from the signal measurement condition. The signal measurement condition may be configured by the network (e.g., using RRC signaling).

[0216] In one example, the selected first SSB has to be at least higher than (or equal to) an RSRP threshold (e.g., a threshold for simultaneous operation). In one example, in order to allow the provision of a second SSB for the UE, the selected first SSB has to be higher than the RSRP threshold. In one example, both the first SSB and the second SSB may be required to be higher than the threshold. In one example, both the first SSB and the second SSB may be required to be within an XdB range (X may be configured by the network) to indicate simultaneous operation as described herein. This is an example of selecting a first reference signal based on signal measurement conditions. The threshold may be sent in the SI or by dedicated signaling. In another example, the selection may additionally be based on UE implementation.

[0217] For example, in one embodiment, the UE may select a first reference signal (e.g., a primary SSB) based on an RSRP measurement (and a threshold). The UE may select a second reference signal (e.g., an additional SSB) based on whether the level of the second RS RSRP to the additional SSB is within an X dB range (where X may be, for example, 3 or 6). This is an example of selecting a second reference signal based on signal measurement conditions and an offset from the signal measurement conditions.

[0218] Figure 8 A flow chart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. The method may be performed at a UE.

[0219] In 801 , the method includes receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node.

[0220] At 802 , the method includes determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition.

[0221] In 803, the method includes determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition depends on the first signal condition.

[0222] In 804, the method includes providing, from the apparatus to a network node during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

[0223] The first signal condition may include a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition may include a second reference signal received power threshold, or a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

[0224] refer to Figure 8 The described method may include determining a first reference signal for a first antenna configuration and determining a second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at a user equipment using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration simultaneously.

[0225] In an example embodiment, the UE selects a primary SSB based on RSRP measurement using a first antenna configuration and determines whether the level of the additional SSB RSRP to the additional SSB is within an XdB range using a second antenna configuration, wherein reception of downlink signals / channels using the first configuration and the second configuration can be performed simultaneously.

[0226] In an example embodiment, the UE selects a primary SSB based on RSRP measurement using a first antenna configuration and determines whether the level of the additional SSB RSRP to the additional SSB is within an XdB range using a second antenna configuration, wherein transmission of uplink signals / channels using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration can be performed simultaneously.

[0227] One antenna panel for selection (eg, the secondary panel) may be capable of producing X dB less power for UL transmission than another antenna panel (eg, the primary panel).

[0228] refer to Figure 8 The described method may include determining a second reference signal further based on at least one of antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

[0229] In an example embodiment, the UE selects additional SSBs such that it takes into account the internal losses of EIRP / Tx power that the UE may generate per antenna or antenna panel, and the path loss towards the gNB, so that the received power at the gNB side is within the YdB window.

[0230] The first antenna configuration may include a first antenna panel configuration.The second antenna configuration may include a second antenna panel configuration.

[0231] The first antenna configuration may include a first beam configuration.The second antenna configuration may include a second beam configuration.

[0232] For example, the antenna configuration may refer to a UE antenna panel for simultaneous uplink transmission (e.g., in connected mode), a UE antenna panel for simultaneous downlink reception (e.g., in connected mode), a beam formed by one or more antennas for simultaneous uplink transmission (e.g., in connected mode), and / or a beam formed by one or more antennas for simultaneous downlink reception (e.g., in connected mode).

[0233] refer to Figure 8 The described method may include receiving an indication of N groups of reference signals and selecting a first reference signal from a first group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals and selecting a second reference signal from a second group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first group of reference signals and the second group of reference signals are different.

[0234] In one example embodiment, the network may provide N groups of reference signals in system information. If the UE determines that N groups of reference signals exist in the system information, the UE is configured to select reference signals from different groups. Otherwise, the UE selects from all reference signals of the cell based on the methods described herein.

[0235] Reference above Figures 5 to 8The described methods can enable enhanced uplink coverage for initial access (e.g., when the UE is equipped with antenna panel specific power amplifiers). These methods can enable multi-TRP connectivity during initial access (rather than just operating in legacy connection mode).

[0236] An apparatus may include: means for providing, from a user equipment to a network node during a random access procedure, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and means for receiving, from the network node, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0237] The apparatus may comprise a user equipment (such as a mobile phone), be a user equipment, or be included in a user equipment or a chipset for performing at least some actions of the user equipment.

[0238] An apparatus may include: a component for receiving, at a network node, information related to a first reference signal and information related to a second reference signal from a user equipment during a random access procedure, for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment; and a component for providing, from the network node to the user equipment, an indication confirming that at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission is supported at the user equipment.

[0239] The apparatus may comprise an access node (such as a gNB), be an access node, or be included in an access node or a chipset for performing at least some actions of an access node.

[0240] The apparatus may include: means for receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; means for determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; means for determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition is dependent on the first signal condition; and means for providing, from the apparatus to the network node during a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at a user equipment.

[0241] The apparatus may comprise a user equipment (such as a mobile phone), be a user equipment, or be included in a user equipment or a chipset for performing at least some actions of the user equipment.

[0242] It should be understood that the apparatus may include or be coupled to other units or modules for or with respect to transmission and / or reception, such as a radio section or a radio head. Although the apparatus has been described as one entity, the different modules and memories may be implemented in one or more physical or logical entities.

[0243] It should be noted that although some embodiments have been described in relation to 5G networks, similar principles can be applied to other related networks and communication systems, such as 6G networks or advanced 5G networks. Therefore, although certain embodiments have been described above by way of example with reference to certain example architectures for wireless networks, technologies, and standards, the embodiments can be applied to any other suitable form of communication system in addition to the communication system shown and described herein.

[0244] It should be noted herein that while example embodiments are described above, various changes and modifications could be made to aspects of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0245] As used herein, “at least one of: ” and “at least one of ” and similar expressions, where a list of two or more elements is joined by “and” or “or”, mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0246] In general, various embodiments may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects of the invention may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software, which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, although the disclosure is not limited thereto. Although various aspects of the disclosure may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representation, it should be understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or a controller or other computing device, or some combination thereof.

[0247] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0248] (a) hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation with only analog and / or digital circuitry), and

[0249] (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software such as (as applicable):

[0250] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and

[0251] (ii) any portion of a hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s), software, and memory(s) that work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions), and

[0252] (c) Hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s), such as microprocessor(s) or portion(s) of microprocessor(s), that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but in which case the software may not be present when not required for operation.

[0253] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, if applicable to the particular claim element, the term circuitry also covers a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or networking equipment.

[0254] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by computer software executed by a data processor of a mobile device (such as in a processor entity), or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Computer software or programs (also referred to as program products) include software routines, applets and / or macros that can be stored in a data storage medium of any readable device, and they include program instructions for performing specific tasks. A computer program product may include one or more computer executable components that are configured to perform an embodiment when the program is run. The one or more computer executable components may be at least one software code or a portion thereof.

[0255] In this respect, it should also be noted that any frame of the logic flow diagram in the accompanying drawings can represent program steps, or interconnected logic circuits, frame and function, or the combination of program steps and logic circuits, frame and function.Software can be stored on physical media (such as memory chips or the memory blocks realized in processors), on magnetic media (such as hard disks or floppy disks) and on optical media (such as DVDs and data variants thereof).This physical media is non-transient medium.Term " non-transient " as used herein is the limitation (that is, tangible, rather than signal) of the medium itself, rather than the limitation (such as RAM and ROM) of data storage persistence.

[0256] The memory may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. The data processor may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may include, by way of non-limiting example, one or more of the following: a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an FPGA, a gate-level circuit, and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture.

[0257] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in various components, such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits is generally a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools are available to convert a logic-level design into a semiconductor circuit design ready to be etched and formed on a semiconductor substrate.

[0258] The scope of protection sought by various embodiments of the present disclosure is set forth in the independent claims. Embodiments and features described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims (if any) should be interpreted as examples that help understand various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0259] The foregoing description has provided, by way of non-limiting examples, a complete and informative description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, various modifications and adaptations will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art in view of the foregoing description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications of the teachings of this disclosure will still fall within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Indeed, further embodiments are possible, including combinations of one or more embodiments with any other embodiments previously discussed.

Claims

1. A device for communication, comprising: means for receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; means for determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; means for determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition is dependent on the first signal condition; as well as Means for providing, from the apparatus to the network node, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment during a random access procedure.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first reference signal and the second reference signal each comprise at least one of the following: a synchronization signal, a demodulation reference signal, a channel state information reference signal, or a physical broadcast channel block.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first signal condition comprises a first reference signal received power threshold, and the second signal condition comprises a second reference signal received power threshold offset from the first reference signal received power threshold.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: Means for determining the first reference signal for a first antenna configuration, and determining the second reference signal for a second antenna configuration, wherein at least one of downlink reception or uplink transmission can be performed at the user equipment simultaneously using the first antenna configuration and the second antenna configuration.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first antenna configuration comprises a first antenna panel configuration and the second antenna configuration comprises a second antenna panel configuration.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first antenna configuration comprises a first beam configuration and the second antenna configuration comprises a second beam configuration.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: Means for determining the second reference signal further based on at least one of antenna panel power output and a path loss towards the network node.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: means for receiving an indication of N sets of reference signals; and means for selecting the first reference signal from a first group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, and selecting the second reference signal from a second group of reference signals in the N groups of reference signals, wherein the first group of reference signals and the second group of reference signals are different.

9. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal include at least one of the following items: an indication of a reference signal resource suitable for both simultaneous downlink reception and transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for simultaneous uplink transmission; a reference signal resource suitable for uplink transmission, or a reference signal resource suitable for downlink and uplink transmission.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: means for providing the information related to the first reference signal and the information related to the second reference signal in at least one message during the random access procedure, wherein the message comprises at least one of the following: a random access preamble, message 3 of the random access procedure, or message A.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, comprising: means for providing said information related to said first reference signal in a random access preamble, and providing said information related to said second reference signal in message 3 or message A of said random access procedure.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the information related to the second reference signal comprises: an indication of a time position index of the second reference signal, or an indication of a logical index of the second reference signal, or a resource indicator of the second reference signal.

13. A user equipment, comprising the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method for communication, comprising: At the device: receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition is dependent on the first signal condition; as well as During a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal are provided from the apparatus to the network node for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

15. An apparatus for communication, comprising: at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition is dependent on the first signal condition; as well as During a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal are provided from the apparatus to the network node for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

16. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: receiving a plurality of reference signals from a network node; determining a first reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a first signal condition; determining a second reference signal from the plurality of reference signals based on a second signal condition, wherein the second signal condition is dependent on the first signal condition; as well as During a random access procedure, information related to the first reference signal and information related to the second reference signal are provided from the apparatus to the network node for performing at least one of simultaneous downlink reception or simultaneous uplink transmission at the user equipment.

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