Reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shift

Abstract

Methods, systems, and devices are described for wireless communication that provide backscatter modulation capabilities that signal a user equipment (UE) or other devices that support backscatter modulation. Backscatter modulation capabilities may include frequency shift capabilities, and one or more backscatter capabilities may be signaled in a capability report sent in response to a signal from a network node or other interrogation device or reader. The capability report may indicate whether backscatter modulation with a frequency shift is supported at the UE. The capability report may also indicate one or more types of frequency shifts supported at the UE. The network node may receive the capability report and schedule the UE for communication based on the reported capability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following relates to wireless communications, including reporting techniques for backscatter capabilities with frequency shifting. Background Art

[0002] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content, such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, etc. These systems may be able to support communication with multiple users by sharing available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of such multiple-access systems include fourth-generation (4G) systems (such as long-term evolution (LTE) systems, advanced LTE (LTE-A) systems, or LTE-A Pro systems) and fifth-generation (5G) systems (which may be referred to as new radio (NR) systems). These systems may employ techniques such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA), or discrete Fourier transform-spread orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (DFT-S-OFDM). A wireless multiple-access communication system may include one or more base stations, each of which supports wireless communication for communication devices, which may be referred to as user equipment (UE).

[0003] In some systems, such as some Internet of Things (IoT) systems, low-cost and low-complexity wireless devices may be desired to provide wireless connectivity to a wide variety of devices. Therefore, efficient and cost-effective techniques for providing wireless connectivity are desired. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The described technology relates to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses that support reporting techniques for backscatter capabilities with frequency shifting. For example, the described technology provides for signaling the backscatter modulation capabilities of user equipment (UE) or other devices that support backscatter modulation. According to the techniques discussed herein, the backscatter modulation capabilities may include frequency shift capabilities, and one or more backscatter capabilities may be signaled in a capability report sent in response to a signal from a network node or other interrogating device / reader. In some aspects, the capability report may indicate whether backscatter modulation with frequency shifting is supported at the UE. In addition, the capability report may indicate one or more types of frequency shifts that may be supported at the UE. The network node may receive the capability report and schedule the UE for communication based on the reported capabilities.

[0005] A method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE) is described. The method may include: sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0006] An apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: send a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicate with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0007] Another apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include means for sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and means for communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0008] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to: send a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicate with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0009] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may further include operations, features, components, or instructions for receiving a signal that triggers the backscatter capability report, and wherein the sending is in response to the signal. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shifting is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shifting supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-side frequency shift capability, single-side frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

[0010] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for: receiving an interrogation signal after sending the backscatter capability report, the interrogation signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the network node is responsive to the interrogation signal. In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates whether the frequency shift capability at the UE is enabled or disabled.

[0011] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for: determining one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE; and requesting disabling communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation based on one or more of the energy state or the available power at the UE. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report also includes a requested power amount from the network node for performing the interrogation signal with the frequency-shifted backscatter modulation.

[0012] In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE performs frequency shifting of the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more parameters associated with frequency or clock stability, an expected offset between the frequency or clock and the interrogation signal frequency, or any combination thereof. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report further indicates, for frequency shifting using the square wave, one or more of a jitter range associated with generating the square wave or the expected offset. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report further indicates, for frequency shifting using the local oscillator, one or more of a phase noise class associated with generating the sine wave or the expected offset.

[0013] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for receiving an indication of one or more frequency shift parameters for communicating with the network node. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates a frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the frequency hopping capability includes an indication of one or more of: a handover gap time supported at the UE, a number of frequency hopping supported at the UE, one or more hopping patterns supported at the UE, or any combination thereof.

[0014] A method for wireless communication at a network node is described. The method may include: receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0015] An apparatus for wireless communication at a network node is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receive a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicate with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0016] Another apparatus for wireless communication at a network node is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and means for communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0017] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a network node is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to: receive a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicate with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0018] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for sending a signal to the UE requesting the backscatter capability report.

[0019] In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shifting is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shifting supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-side frequency shifting capability, single-side frequency shifting capability, or any combination thereof. Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for performing the following operations: after receiving the backscatter capability report, sending an inquiry signal, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shifting capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the UE is responsive to the inquiry signal.

[0020] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for receiving a request to disable communications with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation, and interrupting communications with the UE using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation. In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report also includes a requested power amount of an inquiry signal from the network node, and the power of the inquiry signal is determined based on the requested power amount.

[0021] In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE performs frequency shifting of the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE, and communicating with the UE is based on the square wave or sine wave frequency shift of the UE. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates an amount of frequency shifting supported by frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation. In some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the backscatter capability report indicates a frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 An example of a wireless communication system supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0023] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication system supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0024] Figure 3An example of a backscatter device without frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0025] Figure 4 An example of a backscatter device with frequency shift that supports reporting techniques for backscatter capabilities with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0026] Figure 5 An example of a frequency hopping scheme supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 6 An example of a process flow supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0028] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A block diagram illustrating a device supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0029] Figure 9 A block diagram of a communications manager supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting is illustrated in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 10 A diagram illustrating a system including devices supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting, in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0031] Figure 11 and Figure 12 A block diagram illustrating a device supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0032] Figure 13 A block diagram of a communications manager supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting is illustrated in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 14 A diagram illustrating a system including devices supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting, in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0034] Figures 15 to 21 A flow chart illustrating a method of supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] In some wireless communication systems (such as some Internet of Things (IoT) systems), low-cost and low-complexity wireless devices may be desired to provide wireless connectivity to a wide variety of devices. One type of relatively low-cost and relatively low-complexity device that can be used in such systems can be radio frequency identification (RFID) technology for communication. In some cases, a device may have RFID components in addition to RF components that enable other types of wireless communication (e.g., 5G or new radio (NR) communication, Wi-Fi communication, device-to-device communication, etc.). In some cases, one or more devices may not be capable of other types of wireless communication and may rely solely on RFID-type communication. Such RFID technology is a relatively low-power communication and can use backscatter modulation, which allows for greater distances between devices, or use inductive coupling for more near-field communication. In a system using backscatter modulation, an interrogation signal from an interrogating device (e.g., a network node or network device such as a remote radio head (RRH)) is reflected back to the interrogating device, where information is modulated on the reflected signal. Information can be modulated onto the backscatter signal, such as using ASK or PSK, and the antenna impedance can be switched to adjust the reflection coefficient for absorbing or reflecting the impinging electromagnetic (EM) wave, depending on the modulation technique (e.g., ASK / PSK). Such techniques allow devices with backscatter components, such as UEs, to consume relatively little power, as most of the energy used in the process is provided by the interrogating device.

[0036] In some cases, the backscatter signal may use the same frequency as the interrogation signal, which may cause interference at the interrogation device and may also reduce communication efficiency and reliability. Some RFID devices use frequency shifting to avoid such interference, and systems using such frequency shifting techniques may have hardware specifications that specify the types of devices that can communicate using the system. However, such specified operations provide very little flexibility in terms of the types of devices and frequency shift types that can be used in such systems. According to various aspects discussed herein, a device may report frequency shift capabilities for backscatter communications. These aspects may provide additional flexibility and capabilities for the system and provide devices that achieve low-cost and low-complexity connectivity (e.g., in IoT systems). Furthermore, such techniques may allow many different types of devices with different capabilities to communicate with the same network node.

[0037] According to various aspects, techniques are provided for signaling the backscatter modulation capabilities (including frequency shift capabilities) of a UE (or other device). Although various examples discussed herein may refer to a UE that performs backscatter modulation, the techniques as discussed herein may be used in any device that implements backscatter communications. In some aspects, backscatter capabilities may be signaled in a capability report sent in response to a signal from a network node (e.g., a wake-up signal or other inquiry signal that triggers a capability report). Although various examples discussed herein may refer to a network device or network node that performs inquiries and communications using backscatter modulation, the techniques as discussed herein may be used in any inquiry device that implements backscatter communications. In some aspects, the capability report may indicate whether backscatter modulation with frequency shifting is supported at the UE. In addition, the capability report may indicate one or more types of frequency shifts that may be supported at the UE. The different types of frequency shifts may include the amount of frequency change supported, whether the UE supports double-sided shifting (e.g., + and - delta_frequency) or single-sided shifting (e.g., + or - delta_frequency), whether the UE uses a square wave or a local oscillator to generate the frequency shift, the frequency / clock stability and expected clock offset of the shifted signal, the amount of frequency shift supported (e.g., upper limit of delta_frequency, upper limit of available discrete frequency shifts), frequency hopping capabilities (e.g., switching time, number of hops, and hopping pattern), or any combination thereof.

[0038] The querying network node may receive the capability report and schedule the UE for communication based on the reported capabilities. In some cases, the network node may initiate communication based on the indicated capabilities by indicating frequency shift parameters (e.g., using a modulated query signal) such as a frequency shift amount, a frequency hopping pattern, or any combination thereof, and may use appropriate detection and scheduling algorithms based on the frequency shift parameters.

[0039] Aspects of the present disclosure are first described in the context of a wireless communication system. Aspects of the present disclosure are further illustrated by apparatus diagrams, frequency hopping diagrams, process flows, system diagrams, and flow charts relating to reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting, and are described with reference to these diagrams.

[0040] Figure 1An example of a wireless communication system 100 supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The wireless communication system 100 may include one or more network entities 105, one or more UEs 115, and a core network 130. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 may be a Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, an LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) network, an LTE-A Pro network, a New Radio (NR) network, or a network operating according to other systems and radio technologies, including future systems and radio technologies not explicitly mentioned herein.

[0041] The network entities 105 may be dispersed throughout a geographic area to form the wireless communication system 100 and may include devices in different forms or with different capabilities. In various examples, the network entities 105 may be referred to as network elements, mobility elements, radio access network (RAN) nodes, or network equipment, among other nomenclature. In some examples, the network entities 105 and the UEs 115 may communicate wirelessly via one or more communication links 125 (e.g., radio frequency (RF) access links). For example, the network entities 105 may support a coverage area 110 (e.g., a geographic coverage area) within which the UEs 115 and the network entities 105 may establish one or more communication links 125. The coverage area 110 may be an example of a geographic area within which the network entities 105 and the UEs 115 may support communication of signals according to one or more radio access technologies (RATs).

[0042] The UEs 115 may be dispersed throughout the coverage area 110 of the wireless communication system 100, and each UE 115 may be stationary or mobile or both stationary and mobile at different times. The UEs 115 may be devices that take different forms or have different capabilities. Figure 1 Some example UEs 115 are illustrated in FIG. 1 . The UEs 115 described herein may be capable of supporting communications with various types of devices, such as other UEs 115 or network entities 105, such as Figure 1 shown.

[0043] As described herein, a node of the wireless communication system 100 (which may be referred to as a network node or wireless node) may be a network entity 105 (e.g., any network entity described herein), a UE 115 (e.g., any UE described herein), a network controller, an apparatus, a device, a computing system, one or more components, or another suitable processing entity configured to perform any of the techniques described herein. For example, the node may be a UE 115. As another example, the node may be a network entity 105. As another example, a first node may be configured to communicate with a second node or a third node. In one aspect of this example, the first node may be a UE 115, the second node may be a network entity 105, and the third node may be a UE 115. In another aspect of this example, the first node may be a UE 115, the second node may be a network entity 105, and the third node may be a network entity 105. In other aspects of this example, the first node, the second node, and the third node may be different relative to these examples. Similarly, references to UE 115, network entity 105, apparatus, device, computing system, etc. may include disclosure of UE 115, network entity 105, apparatus, device, computing system, etc. as nodes. For example, a disclosure that UE 115 is configured to receive information from network entity 105 also discloses that the first node is configured to receive information from the second node.

[0044] In some examples, network entities 105 can communicate with core network 130, with each other, or both. For example, network entities 105 can communicate with core network 130 via one or more backhaul communication links 120 (e.g., according to S1, N2, N3, or other interface protocols). In some examples, network entities 105 can communicate with each other directly (e.g., directly between network entities 105) or indirectly (e.g., via core network 130) via backhaul communication links 120 (e.g., according to X2, Xn, or other interface protocols). In some examples, network entities 105 can communicate with each other via midhaul communication links 162 (e.g., according to a midhaul interface protocol) or fronthaul communication links 168 (e.g., according to a fronthaul interface protocol), or any combination thereof. Backhaul communication links 120, midhaul communication links 162, or fronthaul communication links 168 can be or include one or more wired links (e.g., electrical links, fiber optic links), one or more wireless links (e.g., radio links, wireless optical links), etc., or various combinations thereof. UE 115 may communicate with core network 130 via communication link 155 .

[0045] One or more of the network entities 105 described herein may include or may be referred to as a base station 140 (e.g., a base transceiver station, a radio base station, an NR base station, an access point, a radio transceiver, a Node B, an evolved Node B (eNB), a next-generation Node B, or a gigabit Node B (any of which may be referred to as a gNB), a 5G NB, a next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), a Home Node B, a Home evolved Node B, or other suitable terminology). In some examples, the network entity 105 (e.g., a base station 140) may be implemented in a converged (e.g., monolithic, stand-alone) base station architecture that may be configured to utilize a protocol stack that is physically or logically integrated within a single network entity 105 (e.g., a single RAN node, such as the base station 140).

[0046] In some examples, the network entity 105 can be implemented in a disaggregated architecture (e.g., a disaggregated base station architecture, a disaggregated RAN architecture) that can be configured to utilize a protocol stack that is physically or logically distributed between two or more network entities 105, such as an integrated access backhaul (IAB) network, an open RAN (O-RAN) (e.g., a network configuration sponsored by the O-RAN Alliance), or a virtualized RAN (vRAN) (e.g., a cloud RAN (C-RAN)). For example, the network entity 105 can include one or more of the following: a central unit (CU) 160, a distributed unit (DU) 165, a radio unit (RU) 170, a RAN intelligent controller (RIC) 175 (e.g., a near real-time RIC (near RT RIC), a non-real-time RIC (non-RT RIC)), a service management and orchestration (SMO) 180 system, or any combination thereof. The RU 170 may also be referred to as a radio head, smart radio head, remote radio head (RRH), remote radio unit (RRU), or transmit receive point (TRP). One or more components of the network entity 105 in the disaggregated RAN architecture may be co-located, or one or more components of the network entity 105 may be located in distributed locations (e.g., separate physical locations). In some examples, one or more network entities 105 of the disaggregated RAN architecture may be implemented as virtual units (e.g., virtual CU (VCU), virtual DU (VDU), virtual RU (VRU)).

[0047] The functional split between CU 160, DU 165, and RU 170 is flexible and can support different functions depending on which functions (e.g., network layer functions, protocol layer functions, baseband functions, RF functions, and any combination thereof) are performed at CU 160, DU 165, or RU 170. For example, a functional split of the protocol stack can be employed between CU 160 and DU 165 such that CU 160 can support one or more layers of the protocol stack and DU 165 can support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. In some examples, CU 160 can host higher protocol layer (e.g., Layer 3 (L3), Layer 2 (L2)) functions and signaling (e.g., Radio Resource Control (RRC), Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)). The CU 160 may be connected to one or more DUs 165 or RUs 170, and the one or more DUs 165 or RUs 170 may host lower protocol layers, such as Layer 1 (L1) (e.g., physical (PHY) layer) or L2 (e.g., radio link control (RLC) layer, medium access control (MAC) layer) functionality and signaling, and may each be at least partially controlled by the CU 160. Additionally or alternatively, a functional split of the protocol stack may be employed between the DU 165 and the RU 170, such that the DU 165 may support one or more layers of the protocol stack and the RU 170 may support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. The DU 165 may support one or more different cells (e.g., via one or more RUs 170). In some cases, the functional split between the CU 160 and the DU 165 or between the DU 165 and the RU 170 can be within the protocol layer (e.g., some functions of the protocol layer can be performed by one of the CU 160, DU 165, or RU 170, while other functions of the protocol layer are performed by a different one of the CU 160, DU 165, or RU 170). The CU 160 can be further functionally split into CU control plane (CU-CP) and CU user plane (CU-UP) functions. The CU 160 can be connected to one or more DUs 165 via midhaul communication links 162 (e.g., F1, F1-c, F1-u), and the DU 165 can be connected to one or more RUs 170 via fronthaul communication links 168 (e.g., open fronthaul (FH) interface). In some examples, midhaul communication link 162 or fronthaul communication link 168 may be implemented according to interfaces (eg, channels) between layers of a protocol stack supported by respective network entities 105 communicating via these communication links.

[0048] In some wireless communication systems (e.g., wireless communication system 100), the infrastructure and spectrum resources for radio access may support wireless backhaul link capabilities to supplement wired backhaul connections, thereby providing an IAB network architecture (e.g., to the core network 130). In some cases, in an IAB network, one or more network entities 105 (e.g., IAB nodes 104) may be partially controlled by each other. One or more IAB nodes 104 may be referred to as a donor entity or IAB donor. One or more DUs 165 or one or more RUs 170 may be partially controlled by one or more CUs 160 associated with a donor network entity 105 (e.g., a donor base station 140). One or more donor network entities 105 (e.g., IAB donors) may communicate with one or more additional network entities 105 (e.g., IAB nodes 104) via supported access and backhaul links (e.g., backhaul communication links 120). The IAB node 104 may include an IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) controlled (e.g., scheduled) by the DU 165 of the coupled IAB donor. The IAB-MT may include an independent set of antennas for relaying communications with the UE 115, or may share the same antennas of the IAB node 104 (e.g., RU 170) for access via the DU 165 of the IAB node 104 (e.g., referred to as a virtual IAB-MT (vIAB-MT)). In some examples, the IAB node 104 may include a DU 165 that supports communication links with additional entities (e.g., IAB node 104, UE 115) within a relay chain or configuration (e.g., downstream) of the access network. In such cases, one or more components of the decomposed RAN architecture (e.g., one or more IAB nodes 104 or components of the IAB node 104) may be configured to operate according to the techniques described herein.

[0049] Where the techniques described herein are applied to the context of a disaggregated RAN architecture, one or more components of the disaggregated RAN architecture may be configured to support the reporting techniques described herein for backscatter capability with frequency shifting. For example, some operations described as being performed by a UE 115 or a network entity 105 (e.g., a base station 140) may additionally or alternatively be performed by one or more components of the disaggregated RAN architecture (e.g., an IAB node 104, a DU 165, a CU 160, a RU 170, a RIC 175, a SMO 180).

[0050] UE 115 may include or may be referred to as a mobile device, a wireless device, a remote device, a handheld device, or a subscriber device, or some other suitable terminology, where "device" may also be referred to as a unit, a station, a terminal, or a client, etc. UE 115 may also include or may be referred to as a personal electronic device, such as a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or a personal computer. In some examples, UE 115 may include or may be referred to as a wireless local loop (WLL) station, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, an Internet of Everything (IoE) device, or a machine type communication (MTC) device, etc., which may be implemented in various objects, such as appliances or vehicles, meters, etc.

[0051] The UE 115 described herein may be capable of communicating with various types of devices, such as other UEs 115, which may sometimes act as relays, as well as network entities 105 and network equipment including macro eNBs or gNBs, small cell eNBs or gNBs, relay base stations, etc. Figure 1 shown.

[0052] The UE 115 and the network entity 105 may wirelessly communicate with each other via one or more communication links 125 (e.g., access links) using resources associated with one or more carriers. The term "carrier" may refer to a collection of RF spectrum resources having a physical layer structure defined for supporting the communication link 125. For example, a carrier used for the communication link 125 may include a portion of an RF spectrum band (e.g., a bandwidth portion (BWP)) that operates according to one or more physical layer channels for a given radio access technology (e.g., LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, NR). Each physical layer channel may carry acquisition signaling (e.g., synchronization signals, system information), control signaling for coordinating carrier operations, user data, or other signaling. The wireless communication system 100 may support communications with the UE 115 using carrier aggregation or multi-carrier operation. Depending on the carrier aggregation configuration, the UE 115 may be configured with multiple downlink component carriers and one or more uplink component carriers. Carrier aggregation may be used for both frequency division duplex (FDD) and time division duplex (TDD) component carriers. Communication between the network entity 105 and other devices may refer to communication between those devices and any portion (e.g., entity, sub-entity) of the network entity 105. For example, the terms "send," "receive," or "communicate" when referring to the network entity 105 may refer to any portion of the network entity 105 (e.g., base station 140, CU 160, DU 165, RU 170) of the RAN communicating with another device (e.g., directly or via one or more other network entities 105).

[0053] The signal waveform transmitted via the carrier may include multiple subcarriers (e.g., using a multicarrier modulation (MCM) technique such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) or discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-S-OFDM)). In a system employing MCM techniques, a resource element may refer to the resource of one symbol period (e.g., the duration of one modulation symbol) and one subcarrier, in which case the symbol period and subcarrier spacing may be inversely related. The number of bits carried by each resource element may depend on the modulation scheme (e.g., the order of the modulation scheme, the coding rate of the modulation scheme, or both), such that a relatively high number of resource elements (e.g., in the transmission duration) and a relatively high order modulation scheme may correspond to a relatively high communication rate. Wireless communication resources may refer to a combination of RF spectrum resources, time resources, and spatial resources (e.g., spatial layers or beams), and the use of multiple spatial resources may increase the data rate or data integrity used for communication with UE 115.

[0054] The time interval for the network entity 105 or the UE 115 may be expressed as a multiple of a basic time unit, which may be, for example, a sampling period T s =1 / (Δf max ·N f ) seconds, where Δf max It can represent the supported subcarrier spacing, and N f The supported discrete Fourier transform (DFT) size may be indicated. Time intervals of communication resources may be organized according to radio frames, each having a specified duration (e.g., 10 milliseconds (ms)). Each radio frame may be identified by a system frame number (SFN) (e.g., in the range of 0 to 1023).

[0055] Each frame may include a plurality of consecutively numbered subframes or time slots, and each subframe or time slot may have the same duration. In some examples, a frame may be divided (e.g., in the time domain) into subframes, and each subframe may be further divided into a certain number of time slots. Alternatively, each frame may include a variable number of time slots, and the number of time slots may depend on the subcarrier spacing. Each time slot may include a certain number of symbol periods (e.g., depending on the length of the cyclic prefix appended in front of each symbol period). In some wireless communication systems 100, the time slot may be further divided into a plurality of mini-time slots associated with one or more symbols. Excluding the cyclic prefix, each symbol period may be associated with one or more (e.g., N f The duration of a symbol period may depend on the subcarrier spacing or the operating frequency band.

[0056] A subframe, slot, mini-slot, or symbol may be the smallest scheduling unit (e.g., in the time domain) of the wireless communication system 100 and may be referred to as a Transmit Time Interval (TTI). In some examples, the TTI duration (e.g., the number of symbol periods in a TTI) may be variable. Additionally or alternatively, the smallest scheduling unit of the wireless communication system 100 may be dynamically selected (e.g., in a burst of a shortened TTI (sTTI)).

[0057] Physical channels may be multiplexed according to various techniques for communication using a carrier. For example, physical control channels and physical data channels may be multiplexed using one or more of time division multiplexing (TDM), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), or hybrid TDM-FDM techniques for signaling via a downlink carrier. A control region (e.g., a control resource set (CORESET)) of a physical control channel may be defined by a set of symbol periods and may extend across the system bandwidth of a carrier or a subset of that bandwidth. One or more control regions (e.g., CORESETs) may be configured for a set of UEs 115. For example, one or more of UEs 115 may monitor or search the control region for control information according to one or more search space sets, and each search space set may include one or more control channel candidates in one or more aggregation levels arranged in a cascaded manner. The aggregation level of a control channel candidate may refer to the amount of control channel resources (e.g., control channel elements (CCEs)) associated with coded information for a control information format having a given payload size. The search space sets may include a common search space set configured for transmitting control information to multiple UEs 115 and a UE-specific search space set for transmitting control information to a specific UE 115 .

[0058] In some examples, network entities 105 (e.g., base stations 140, RUs 170) can be mobile and, therefore, provide communication coverage for mobile coverage areas 110. In some examples, different coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can overlap, but the different coverage areas 110 can be supported by the same network entity 105. In some other examples, overlapping coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can be supported by different network entities 105. The wireless communication system 100 can include, for example, a heterogeneous network in which different types of network entities 105 provide coverage for various coverage areas 110 using the same or different radio access technologies.

[0059] Some UEs 115, such as MTC or IoT devices, may be low-cost or low-complexity devices and may enable automated communication between machines (e.g., via machine-to-machine (M2M) communication). M2M communication or MTC may refer to data communication technology that allows devices to communicate with each other or with a network entity 105 (e.g., base station 140) without human intervention. In some examples, M2M communication or MTC may include communication from devices that integrate sensors or meters to measure or capture information and relay such information to a central server or application that uses the information or presents it to a person interacting with the application. Some UEs 115 may be designed to collect information or enable automated behavior of machines or other devices. Examples of applications for MTC devices include smart metering, inventory monitoring, water level monitoring, equipment monitoring, healthcare monitoring, wilderness survival monitoring, weather and geographic event monitoring, fleet management and tracking, remote security sensing, physical access control, and transaction-based commercial charging.

[0060] The wireless communication system 100 can be configured to support ultra-reliable communication or low-latency communication or various combinations thereof. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can be configured to support ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). The UE 115 can be designed to support ultra-reliable or low-latency or critical functions. Ultra-reliable communication can include private communication or group communication and can be supported by one or more services (such as push-to-talk, video or data). Support for ultra-reliable, low-latency functions can include prioritization of services, and such services can be used for public safety or general commercial applications. The terms ultra-reliable, low-latency and ultra-reliable low-latency can be used interchangeably in this article.

[0061] In some examples, a UE 115 can be configured to support communication directly with other UEs 115 via a device-to-device (D2D) communication link 135 (e.g., according to a peer-to-peer (P2P), D2D, or sidelink protocol). In some examples, one or more UEs 115 in a group performing D2D communication can be within a coverage area 110 of a network entity 105 (e.g., a base station 140, a RU 170), which can support aspects of such D2D communication configured (e.g., scheduled) by the network entity 105. In some examples, one or more UEs 115 in such a group can be outside of the coverage area 110 of the network entity 105 or can otherwise be unable or not configured to receive transmissions from the network entity 105. In some examples, a group of UEs 115 communicating via D2D communication can support a one-to-many (1:M) system, in which each UE 115 transmits to each of the other UEs 115 in the group. In some examples, network entity 105 may facilitate scheduling of resources for D2D communications. In some other examples, D2D communications may be performed between UEs 115 without involving network entity 105.

[0062] In some systems, the D2D communication link 135 can be an example of a communication channel (such as a sidelink communication channel) between vehicles (e.g., UE 115). In some examples, the vehicles can communicate using vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, or some combination thereof. The vehicles can signal information related to traffic conditions, signal scheduling, weather, safety, emergency situations, or any other information related to the V2X system. In some examples, the vehicles in the V2X system can communicate with roadside infrastructure (such as roadside units) or communicate with the network via one or more network nodes (e.g., network entity 105, base station 140, RU 170) using vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, or both.

[0063] The core network 130 may provide user authentication, access authorization, tracking, Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. The core network 130 may be an evolved packet core (EPC) or a 5G core (5GC), which may include at least one control plane entity (e.g., a mobility management entity (MME), an access and mobility management function (AMF)) for managing access and mobility and at least one user plane entity (e.g., a serving gateway (S-GW), a packet data network (PDN) gateway (P-GW), or a user plane function (UPF)) for routing packets or interconnecting to external networks. The control plane entity may manage non-access stratum (NAS) functions such as mobility, authentication, and bearer management for UEs 115 served by network entities 105 (e.g., base stations 140) associated with the core network 130. User IP packets may be transferred through the user plane entity, which may provide IP address allocation and other functions. The user plane entity may be connected to the IP services 150 of one or more network operators. IP services 150 may include access to the Internet, an intranet, an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), or packet-switched streaming services.

[0064] The wireless communication system 100 can operate using one or more frequency bands that can range from 300 megahertz (MHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Generally speaking, the region from 300 MHz to 3 GHz is referred to as the ultra-high frequency (UHF) region or decimeter band because the wavelengths range from about one decimeter to one meter in length. UHF waves can be blocked or redirected by buildings and environmental features (which can be referred to as clusters), but these waves can penetrate structures sufficiently for a macro cell to provide service to a UE 115 located indoors. Communication using UHF waves can be associated with smaller antennas and a shorter range (e.g., less than 100 kilometers) than communication using the smaller frequencies and longer wavelengths of the high frequency (HF) or very high frequency (VHF) portions of the spectrum below 300 MHz.

[0065] The wireless communication system 100 can utilize both licensed and unlicensed RF spectrum bands. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can use unlicensed bands (such as the 5 GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band) to employ license assisted access (LAA), LTE unlicensed (LTE-U) radio access technology, or NR technology. When operating using unlicensed RF spectrum bands, devices such as the network entity 105 and the UE 115 can employ carrier sensing for conflict detection and avoidance. In some examples, operations using the unlicensed bands can be based on a carrier aggregation configuration (e.g., LAA) in conjunction with component carriers operating using licensed bands. Operations using the unlicensed spectrum can include downlink transmissions, uplink transmissions, P2P transmissions, or D2D transmissions, among others.

[0066] A network entity 105 (e.g., a base station 140, a RU 170) or a UE 115 may be equipped with multiple antennas that can be used to employ techniques such as transmit diversity, receive diversity, multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) communications, or beamforming. The antennas of the network entity 105 or UE 115 may be located within one or more antenna arrays or antenna panels, which may support MIMO operations or transmit or receive beamforming. For example, one or more base station antennas or antenna arrays may be co-located at an antenna assembly, such as an antenna tower. In some examples, the antennas or antenna arrays associated with the network entity 105 may be located at different geographic locations. The network entity 105 may include an antenna array having a set of multiple rows and columns of antenna ports that the network entity 105 may use to support beamforming for communications with the UE 115. Similarly, the UE 115 may include one or more antenna arrays that may support various MIMO or beamforming operations. Additionally or alternatively, the antenna panels may support RF beamforming for signals transmitted via the antenna ports.

[0067] Beamforming (which may also be referred to as spatial filtering, directional transmission, or directional reception) is a signal processing technique that can be used at a transmitting device or a receiving device (e.g., a network entity 105, a UE 115) to shape or steer an antenna beam (e.g., a transmit beam, a receive beam) along a spatial path between the transmitting device and the receiving device. Beamforming can be achieved by combining signals communicated via antenna elements of an antenna array so that some signals propagating in a particular direction relative to the antenna array experience constructive interference, while other signals experience destructive interference. Adjustments to signals communicated via antenna elements can include the transmitting device or the receiving device applying an amplitude offset, a phase offset, or both to signals carried via antenna elements associated with the device. The adjustments associated with each of these antenna elements can be defined by a set of beamforming weights associated with a particular direction (e.g., relative to the antenna array of the transmitting device or the receiving device or relative to some other direction).

[0068] According to some aspects, one or more UEs 115 may include backscatter modulation capabilities, and various described techniques provide for signaling the backscatter modulation capabilities of UEs 115 that support backscatter modulation. According to some techniques discussed herein, the backscatter modulation capabilities may include frequency shift capabilities, and the one or more backscatter capabilities may be signaled in a capability report sent in response to a signal from the network entity 105 or other interrogating device / reader. In some aspects, the capability report may indicate whether backscatter modulation with frequency shift is supported at the UE 115. Furthermore, the capability report may indicate one or more types of frequency shift that may be supported at the UE 115. The network entity 105 may receive the capability report and schedule the UE 115 for communication based on the reported capabilities. In some cases, the capability report may be received via a wireless interface different from the interface using backscatter modulation (e.g., via a 5G Uu interface, a Wi-Fi interface, or a D2D PC5 interface), and the network entity 105 may perform backscatter modulation communications based on the capability report received via the different interface.

[0069] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication system 200 supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The wireless communication system 200 may include a network entity 105-a and a UE 115-a, which may be a network entity 105-a and a UE 115-a. Figure 1 As an example of a corresponding device described. In addition to or in addition to one or more other interfaces (e.g., Uu interface, Wi-Fi interface, PC5 interface, etc.) that can be used for communication, the network entity 105-a and the UE 115-a can communicate with each other using backscatter modulation. Figure 2 In an example, the network entity 105-a may send an energy / interrogation signal 210, which may be backscattered at the backscatter component 205 of the UE 115-a to send a backscatter-modulated information signal 215 to the network entity 105-a.

[0070] exist Figure 2In the example of FIG. 1 , backscatter component 205 of UE 115-a may receive energy / interrogation signal 210 and derive all or a portion of the operating power for backscatter-modulated information signal 215 from receive energy path 220, which may harvest energy from energy / interrogation signal 210. For example, backscatter component 205 may use energy from energy / interrogation signal 210 to charge a capacitor and use the charge in the capacitor to power one or more components (e.g., an RF switch, a square wave generator, an oscillator, or any combination thereof). The RF switch of backscatter component 205 may switch between different impedances to modulate the reflected signal on backscatter path 225, thereby providing backscatter-modulated information signal 215, which may be decoded at network entity 105-a to obtain the transmitted information. In some cases, backscatter component 205 may be a passive component that does not require an external power source. In other cases, backscatter component 205 may be an active component that receives power from an external power source. In some cases, UE 115-a may provide an RFID-type sensor (e.g., an active or passive IoT device that may be used in sustainable sensor networks in inventory / asset management, logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, factories, residences, and / or agriculture, etc.) In some cases, energy / interrogation signal 210 may be used to read information stored at UE 115-a, write information to be stored at the UE, or any combination thereof. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Examples of backscatter modulation devices that may be used in accordance with various techniques as discussed herein are provided.

[0071] Figure 3 An example of a backscatter device 300 without frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The backscatter device 300 can be used by a transmitting device (e.g., a UE 115 or an RFID tag) that can receive an incoming signal 305 and transmit a backscatter signal 310 using backscatter modulation.

[0072] In this example, antenna 315 may receive an incoming signal 305 provided to RF switch 320, which is represented as S in (t). The controller 325 may switch the incoming signal 305 between different impedances 330 to 345 to generate a reflection that is output through the antenna 315 as a backscattered signal 310, which is represented as S out (t). In this example, backscattering without frequency shift is provided, and switching between different impedances 330 to 345 can be performed to modulate the incoming signal 305 according to amplitude shift keying (ASK) or phase shift keying (PSK). In this example, the different impedances 330 to 345 can indicate different symbols, which can be demodulated to obtain information bits.

[0073] For example, load modulation can be used to provide a varying impedance Z i Based on to adjust the reflection coefficient for absorbing or reflecting an impinging EM wave (e.g., incoming signal 305), where Z a is the inherent impedance of antenna 315. For example, Z i The RF switch 320 may have two or more states for absorbing or reflecting waves. In some cases, the controller 325 may control the RF switch 320 to provide ASK and / or PSK by switching the impedances 330 to 345. In some cases, the incoming signal 305 and the backscattered signal 310 may operate in the frequency bands of 902 MHz to 928 MHz, 2400 MHz to 2483.5 MHz, and / or 5725 MHz to 5850 MHz.

[0074] In some cases, backscatter communications may provide full-duplex communications at a network node or other reader that transmits the incoming signal 305 and receives the backscatter signal 310. Figure 3 In the example of , the backscatter signal 310 may be in the same frequency band or carrier as the incoming signal 305, and the reader-side detection of the backscatter signal 310 may be subject to full-duplex interference. In some cases, such interference can be mitigated by backscattering with a frequency shift, such as Figure 4 shown.

[0075] Figure 4 An example of a backscatter device 400 with frequency shifting that supports reporting techniques for backscatter capabilities with frequency shifting in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The backscatter device 400 can be used by a transmitting device (e.g., a UE 115 or an RFID tag) that can receive an incoming signal 405 and transmit a backscatter signal 410 using backscatter modulation.

[0076] In this example, antenna 415 may receive an incoming signal 405 provided to RF switch 420, which is represented as S in (t). The controller 425 may switch the incoming signal 405 between different impedances 435 and 440 to absorb or reflect the signal, and the reflected signal may be frequency shifted by the frequency shifter 430 to generate a reflection output through the antenna 415 as a backscattered signal 410, which is represented as S out(t). In this example, backscatter with frequency shift is provided, and switching between different impedances 435 and 440 can be performed to modulate the incoming signal 405 according to amplitude shift keying (ASK) or phase shift keying (PSK). In this example, different square waves can indicate different symbols, which can be demodulated to obtain information bits. The frequency-shifted backscatter signal 410 can provide reduced interference relative to a non-frequency-shifted signal.

[0077] In some examples, such frequency shifting techniques can support more modulation schemes with increased complexity, and larger frequency shifts (Δf) can result in higher energy consumption. In addition, a larger range of Δf can lead to increased dynamic power dissipation. For example, according to Fourier analysis:

[0078]

[0079] In some cases, the UE may use a variety of different techniques to apply frequency shifting and perform backscattering. For example, different implementations may use dual-sided frequency shifting or single-sided frequency shifting, which may mitigate full-duplex interference at the reading device depending on the amount of frequency shift applied. According to various aspects, a UE (such as a UE) including a backscatter component may Figure 3 and 4 For example, the capability indication may indicate that frequency shifting is not provided (e.g., if there is no hardware for generating a frequency shift signal, such as Figure 3 As shown, or if such as Figure 4 The frequency shift component is shown as not enabled), may indicate the frequency shift and architecture used (e.g., square wave versus sine wave architecture used to perform the frequency shift), may indicate different frequency shift amounts supported (Δf), may indicate support for double-sided or single-sided shifting, may indicate support for frequency hopping, or any combination thereof. The network entity may obtain the UE capabilities for performing the frequency shift and schedule backscatter modulated communications based on the UE capabilities (e.g., using different detection algorithms or different scheduling algorithms for tags with different frequency shift capabilities).

[0080] In some cases, the network entity may send an initial signal (such as a wake-up signal or an inquiry signal) to trigger the UE to send a capability report. In some cases, the capability report may indicate whether the UE supports frequency shifting, and the feature may also be enabled or disabled by the network entity based on the capability. In some cases, the UE may recommend enabling or disabling frequency shifting based on the energy state and power consumption at the UE (for example, if the charge state of the UE's power supply is below a threshold, the UE may request backscatter communication with no frequency shift or with a smaller frequency shift). In some cases, additionally or alternatively, the UE may report the power consumption associated with performing frequency shifting, and the network entity may adjust the power level of the incoming signal 405 based on such an indication. In addition, in some cases, the capability report may indicate a dual-sided architecture (for example, the signal may be shifted by ±Δf) or a single-sided architecture (for example, the signal may be shifted by Δf). In some cases, the network entity may schedule backscattering and indicate N·Δf.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the capability report may indicate whether the frequency shifting is implemented using a square wave or an oscillator (e.g., a sine wave). In some cases, frequency shifting performed using a square wave may result in a simpler implementation, but may result in relatively large out-of-band emissions. In some cases, frequency shifting may be performed using a local oscillator that provides reduced out-of-band emissions and may have relatively higher power consumption than square-wave-based frequency shifting. In some further scenarios, additionally or alternatively, the UE may report frequency or clock stability, expected frequency offset, or any combination thereof. For example, using a square wave, the square wave on / off width jitter range may be reported (e.g., within 1 μs (category 1), 10 μs (category 2), where the on duration for category 2 may vary from 0.99 ms to 1.01 ms, etc.). The clock used to generate the periodic square wave may be affected by clock offset (e.g., 10 ppm (category 1) or 100 ppm (category 2)), which may be reported in the capability report. In other examples where a local oscillator (e.g., a sine wave) is used, the oscillator may be subject to clock offset, which may be reported by the UE in a capability report. Additionally, the UE may be subject to relatively large phase noise (e.g., if low-cost components are used), and the phase noise may be categorized into different classes (e.g., -50 dBc (Class 1) or -80 dBc (Class 2) when measured 100 kHz away from the carrier frequency), which may be reported by the UE in a capability report.

[0082] In another example, the UE may indicate supported frequency shifts. For example, the UE may not be able to support an arbitrary Δf and may report supported values. For example, the UE may report an upper limit for Δf (e.g., 180kHz, 1MHz, or 100MHz), may report discrete frequencies for Δf (e.g., only 200kHz, or one of {200kHz, 400kHz, 1MHz}), may report constraints on Δf (e.g., it must satisfy Δf=fc / N or Δf=fc / 2 N or etc., with parameters r, m, n, N provided for different architectures). In some cases, the UE may indicate the Δf of the scheduled backscatter based on the reported capability indication r, m, n, N parameters (or a combination of parameters). Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, the UE may support frequency hopping, such as with reference to Figure 5 discussed.

[0083] Figure 5 An example of a frequency hopping scheme 500 supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The frequency hopping scheme 500 can be used by a transmitting device (e.g., a UE 115 or an RFID tag) that can receive an incoming signal 405 and transmit a backscatter signal 410 using backscatter modulation with frequency hopping.

[0084] In this example, time resources 505 and frequency resources 510 may be provided that allow for hopping sequences in different hopping resources 515. In some cases, the frequency hopping capability may include one or more of: a switching time gap 520 between hopping frequencies (e.g., from Δf1 to Δf2), a number of hopping frequencies supported, a hopping pattern supported (e.g., pseudo-random hopping or a fixed hopping pattern), or any combination thereof.

[0085] Figure 6 An example of a process flow 600 supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The process flow 600 may be implemented with reference to Figures 1 to 5 Aspects of any of the wireless communication systems, architectures, or resource diagrams described herein may be implemented by or in conjunction with one another. For example, process flow 600 includes a network node 605 and a UE 610, each of which may be an example of a UE 115 or a network node or network entity 105 as described herein. In the following description of process flow 600, operations between the network node 605 and the UE 610 may be added, omitted, or performed in a different order (relative to the exemplary order shown).

[0086] At 615, the network node 605 may determine to send a capability request for backscatter modulation capabilities for one or more UEs or other devices / tags. In some cases, the network node 605 may periodically request capabilities, and different responding devices may provide associated reports based on the sleep / wake cycles of the responding devices. At 620, the network node 605 may send a capability request, which may be received at the UE 610. In some cases, the capability request may be sent in an inquiry signal that may provide a wake-up signal for the backscatter modulation component of the UE 610. In other cases, the capability request may be sent using an interface different from the backscatter modulation interface (e.g., via a 5G Uu interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a PC5 interface, or some other wireless network interface).

[0087] At 625, the UE 610 may identify the backscatter modulation capability. In some cases, the backscatter modulation capability may be formatted as a capability report that may indicate one or more of the following: whether frequency shifting is supported, the amount of frequency shifting supported, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported, dual-side frequency shifting capability, single-side frequency shifting capability, frequency hopping capability, a requested power level or amount for frequency shifting, or any combination thereof. At 630, the UE 610 may send the backscatter capability report to the network node 605.

[0088] At 635, the network node 605 may determine the UE backscatter capability based on the backscatter capability report. In some cases, the network node 605 may determine a schedule for performing backscatter communications with the UE 610 based on the backscatter capability reports of the UE 610 and one or more other UEs that may have provided associated capability reports. For example, the network node 605 may perform different types of backscatter communications with different subsets of UEs based on the UEs' associated capabilities.

[0089] At 640, network node 605 may transmit an inquiry signal to UE 610 to initiate communication using backscatter modulation. In some cases, the inquiry signal may include modulation information that may be used to indicate one or more specific UEs to respond to the inquiry signal (e.g., indicating that UEs with specific IDs are to respond, where each UE receiving the inquiry signal may provide an associated UE ID, and network node 605 may select the UE ID for communication based on each UE's associated capability report). At 645, UE 610 may backscatter modulate the information onto the reflected signal, which is provided to network node 605 as a backscatter signal at 650. At 655, network node 605 may decode the information from the backscatter signal. For example, the information transmitted via the backscatter signal may include sensor information associated with UE 610, an asset management ID, and / or an inventory tracking ID, to provide some non-limiting examples. Note that, as shown at 660, as part of the backscatter modulation operation, the inquiry signal transmission, backscatter modulation, and backscatter signal transmission may overlap in time. Likewise, where backscatter modulation is used to provide capability reporting, the capability request (and associated interrogation signal) and the corresponding capability report transmission may overlap in time as part of the backscatter modulation operation.

[0090] Figure 7 A block diagram 700 illustrates a device 705 that supports reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 705 can be an example of aspects of the UE 115 as described herein. The device 705 can include a receiver 710, a transmitter 715, and a communication manager 720. The device 705 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0091] Receiver 710 may provide means for receiving information (such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof) associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels associated with reporting techniques for backscatter with frequency shift capability). The information may be communicated to other components of device 705. Receiver 710 may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

[0092] The transmitter 715 may provide means for transmitting signals generated by other components of the device 705. For example, the transmitter 715 may transmit information associated with various information channels (e.g., a control channel, a data channel, an information channel associated with a reporting technique for backscatter with frequency shift capability), such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the transmitter 715 may be co-located with the receiver 710 in a transceiver module. The transmitter 715 may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

[0093] The communication manager 720, the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, or various combinations thereof, or various components thereof, may be examples of means for performing various aspects of the reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting as described herein. For example, the communication manager 720, the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may support methods for performing one or more of the functions described herein.

[0094] In some examples, the communication manager 720, the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, or various combinations or components thereof may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuit). The hardware may include a processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a central processing unit (CPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, a microcontroller, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof configured as or otherwise supporting components for performing the functions described herein. In some examples, the processor and a memory coupled to the processor may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., by executing instructions stored in the memory by the processor).

[0095] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the communication manager 720, receiver 710, transmitter 715, or various combinations or components thereof may be implemented in code executed by a processor (e.g., as communication management software or firmware). If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functionality of the communication manager 720, receiver 710, transmitter 715, or various combinations or components thereof may be performed by a general-purpose processor (e.g., configured as or otherwise supporting means for performing the functions described herein), a DSP, a CPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, a microcontroller, or any combination of these or other programmable logic devices.

[0096] In some examples, the communication manager 720 can be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, obtain, monitor, output, transmit) using or otherwise cooperating with the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, or both. For example, the communication manager 720 can receive information from the receiver 710, transmit information to the transmitter 715, or be integrated with the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, or both to obtain information, output information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

[0097] According to examples disclosed herein, the communication manager 720 can support wireless communications at a UE. For example, the communication manager 720 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The communication manager 720 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0098] By including or configuring a communication manager 720 according to examples as described herein, the device 705 (e.g., a processor controlling or otherwise coupled to the receiver 710, the transmitter 715, the communication manager 720, or a combination thereof) may support techniques for reporting frequency shift capabilities for backscatter communications, which may provide additional flexibility and capability for the system and provide various devices with low-cost and low-complexity connectivity (e.g., in IoT systems).

[0099] Figure 8 A block diagram 800 illustrates a device 805 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 805 may be an example of aspects of the device 705 or UE 115 as described herein. The device 805 may include a receiver 810, a transmitter 815, and a communication manager 820. The device 805 may also include a processor. Each of these components may communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0100] Receiver 810 may provide means for receiving information (such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof) associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels associated with reporting techniques for backscatter with frequency shift capability). The information may be communicated to other components of device 805. Receiver 810 may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

[0101] The transmitter 815 may provide means for transmitting signals generated by other components of the device 805. For example, the transmitter 815 may transmit information associated with various information channels (e.g., a control channel, a data channel, an information channel associated with a reporting technique for backscatter with frequency shift capability), such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the transmitter 815 may be co-located with the receiver 810 in a transceiver module. The transmitter 815 may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

[0102] Device 805 or its various components may be examples of means for performing various aspects of the reporting techniques with frequency shifted backscatter capability as described herein. For example, communications manager 820 may include backscatter modulation manager 825, backscatter communications manager 830, or any combination thereof. Communications manager 820 may be examples of aspects of communications manager 720 as described herein. In some examples, communications manager 820 or its various components may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, obtain, monitor, output, transmit) using or otherwise coordinating with receiver 810, transmitter 815, or both. For example, communications manager 820 may receive information from receiver 810, transmit information to transmitter 815, or be integrated in conjunction with receiver 810, transmitter 815, or both to obtain information, output information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

[0103] According to examples disclosed herein, a communication manager 820 can support wireless communications at a UE. A backscatter modulation manager 825 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. A backscatter communication manager 830 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0104] Figure 9A block diagram 900 illustrates a communication manager 920 that supports reporting techniques for backscatter-capable frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The communication manager 920 can be an example of aspects of the communication manager 720, the communication manager 820, or both, as described herein. The communication manager 920 or its various components can be examples of components for performing various aspects of the reporting techniques for backscatter-capable frequency shifting as described herein. For example, the communication manager 920 can include a backscatter modulation manager 925, a backscatter communication manager 930, a frequency shift manager 935, an energy state manager 940, a backscatter signal generation manager 945, a frequency hopping manager 950, or any combination thereof. Each of these components can communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0105] According to examples disclosed herein, a communication manager 920 can support wireless communications at a UE. A backscatter modulation manager 925 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. A backscatter communication manager 930 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0106] In some examples, the backscatter communication manager 930 may be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a signal that triggers a backscatter capability report, and wherein the sending is in response to the signal. In some examples, the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shifting is supported at the UE, the amount of frequency shifting supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shifting capability, single-sided frequency shifting capability, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the backscatter communication manager 930 may be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving an inquiry signal after sending the backscatter capability report, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on one or more frequency shifting capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the network node is in response to the inquiry signal. In some examples, the backscatter capability report indicates whether the frequency shift capability at the UE is enabled or disabled.

[0107] In some examples, the energy state manager 940 can be configured as or otherwise support means for determining one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE. In some examples, the backscatter communication manager 930 can be configured as or otherwise support means for requesting disabling of communications with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation based on one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE. In some examples, the backscatter capability report also includes a requested power amount from the network node for performing an interrogation signal with frequency-shifted backscatter modulation.

[0108] In some examples, the backscatter signal generation manager 945 can be configured as or otherwise support means for instructing the UE to perform frequency shifting of the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE. In some examples, the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more parameters associated with frequency or clock stability, an expected offset between the frequency or clock and the interrogation signal frequency, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the backscatter capability report further indicates, for frequency shifting using a square wave, one or more of a jitter range associated with generating the square wave or an expected offset.

[0109] In some examples, the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more of a phase noise category or an expected offset associated with generating a sine wave for a frequency shift using a local oscillator. In some examples, the frequency shift manager 935 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving an indication of one or more frequency shift parameters for communicating with a network node.

[0110] In some examples, frequency hopping manager 950 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a backscatter capability report indicating the frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting a reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation. In some examples, the frequency hopping capability includes an indication of one or more of: a switching gap time supported at the UE, a number of frequency hopping supported at the UE, one or more hopping patterns supported at the UE, or any combination thereof.

[0111] Figure 10A diagram illustrating a system 1000 including a device 1005 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1005 may be an example of a device 705, a device 805, or a UE 115 as described herein, or include components thereof. The device 1005 may communicate (e.g., wirelessly) with one or more network entities 105, one or more UEs 115, or any combination thereof. The device 1005 may include components for two-way voice and data communications, including components for sending and receiving communications, such as a communication manager 1020, an input / output (I / O) controller 1010, a transceiver 1015, an antenna 1025, a memory 1030, code 1035, and a processor 1040. These components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1045).

[0112] I / O controller 1010 can manage input and output signals for device 1005. I / O controller 1010 can also manage peripheral devices that are not integrated into device 1005. In some cases, I / O controller 1010 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some cases, I / O controller 1010 can utilize an operating system, such as or another known operating system. Additionally or alternatively, I / O controller 1010 may represent or interact with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. In some cases, I / O controller 1010 may be implemented as part of a processor (such as processor 1040). In some cases, a user may interact with device 1005 via I / O controller 1010 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 1010.

[0113] In some cases, the device 1005 may include a single antenna 1025. However, in some other cases, the device 1005 may have more than one antenna 1025, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. The transceiver 1015 may communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas 1025, a wired or wireless link, as described herein. For example, the transceiver 1015 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 1015 may also include a modem for modulating packets, providing the modulated packets to the one or more antennas 1025 for transmission, and demodulating packets received from the one or more antennas 1025. The transceiver 1015, or the transceiver 1015 and the one or more antennas 1025, may be examples of the transmitter 715, the transmitter 815, the receiver 710, the receiver 810, or any combination thereof, or components thereof, as described herein.

[0114] Memory 1030 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 1030 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code 1035 including instructions that, when executed by processor 1040, cause device 1005 to perform the various functions described herein. Code 1035 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as system memory) or another type of memory. In some cases, code 1035 may not be directly executable by processor 1040, but may (e.g., when compiled and executed) cause a computer to perform the functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1030 may contain, among other things, a basic I / O system (BIOS) that controls basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0115] The processor 1040 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 1040 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 1040. The processor 1040 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 1030) to cause the device 1005 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting a reporting technology with frequency-shifted backscatter capability). For example, the device 1005 or a component of the device 1005 may include the processor 1040 and the memory 1030 coupled to or coupled to the processor 1040, the processor 1040 and the memory 1030 being configured to perform the various functions described herein.

[0116] According to examples disclosed herein, the communication manager 1020 can support wireless communications at a UE. For example, the communication manager 1020 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The communication manager 1020 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0117] By including or configuring the communication manager 1020 according to examples as described herein, the device 1005 may support techniques for reporting frequency shift capabilities for backscatter communications, which may provide additional flexibility and capability for the system and provide various devices with low-cost and low-complexity connectivity (e.g., in IoT systems).

[0118] In some examples, the communication manager 1020 can be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, monitor, transmit) using or otherwise coordinating with the transceiver 1015, one or more antennas 1025, or any combination thereof. Although the communication manager 1020 is illustrated as a separate component, in some examples, one or more functions described with reference to the communication manager 1020 can be supported or performed by the processor 1040, the memory 1030, the code 1035, or any combination thereof. For example, the code 1035 can include instructions executable by the processor 1040 to cause the device 1005 to perform various aspects of the reporting technique for backscatter with frequency shift capability as described herein, or the processor 1040 and the memory 1030 can be otherwise configured to perform or support such operations.

[0119] Figure 11 A block diagram 1100 illustrates a device 1105 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 1105 may be an example of aspects of the network entity 105 as described herein. The device 1105 may include a receiver 1110, a transmitter 1115, and a communication manager 1120. The device 1105 may also include a processor. Each of these components may communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0120] Receiver 1110 may provide means for obtaining (e.g., receiving, determining, identifying) information associated with various channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels, channels associated with a protocol stack), such as user data, control information, or any combination thereof (e.g., I / Q samples, symbols, packets, protocol data units, service data units). The information may be communicated to other components of device 1105. In some examples, receiver 1110 may support obtaining information by receiving signals via one or more antennas. Additionally or alternatively, receiver 1110 may support obtaining information by receiving signals via one or more wired (e.g., electrical, optical) interfaces, wireless interfaces, or any combination thereof.

[0121] The transmitter 1115 may provide means for outputting (e.g., transmitting, providing, conveying, transmitting) information generated by other components of the device 1105. For example, the transmitter 1115 may output information associated with various channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels, channels associated with a protocol stack), such as user data, control information, or any combination thereof (e.g., I / Q samples, symbols, packets, protocol data units, service data units). In some examples, the transmitter 1115 may support outputting information by transmitting signals via one or more antennas. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter 1115 may support outputting information by transmitting signals via one or more wired (e.g., electrical, optical) interfaces, wireless interfaces, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the transmitter 1115 and the receiver 1110 may be co-located in a transceiver, which may include or be coupled to a modem.

[0122] The communication manager 1120, the receiver 1110, the transmitter 1115, or various combinations thereof, or various components thereof, may be examples of means for performing various aspects of the reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting as described herein. For example, the communication manager 1120, the receiver 1110, the transmitter 1115, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may support methods for performing one or more of the functions described herein.

[0123] In some examples, the communication manager 1120, the receiver 1110, the transmitter 1115, or various combinations or components thereof can be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuit). The hardware can include a processor, a DSP, a CPU, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, a microcontroller, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof configured as or otherwise supporting means for performing the functions described in this disclosure. In some examples, the processor and a memory coupled to the processor can be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., by executing instructions stored in the memory by the processor).

[0124] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the communication manager 1120, receiver 1110, transmitter 1115, or various combinations or components thereof may be implemented in code executed by a processor (e.g., as communication management software or firmware). If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functionality of the communication manager 1120, receiver 1110, transmitter 1115, or various combinations or components thereof may be performed by a general-purpose processor (e.g., configured as or otherwise supporting means for performing the functions described in this disclosure), a DSP, a CPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, a microcontroller, or any combination of these or other programmable logic devices.

[0125] In some examples, communication manager 1120 can be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, obtain, monitor, output, transmit) using or otherwise cooperating with receiver 1110, transmitter 1115, or both. For example, communication manager 1120 can receive information from receiver 1110, transmit information to transmitter 1115, or be integrated with receiver 1110, transmitter 1115, or both to obtain information, output information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

[0126] According to examples disclosed herein, the communication manager 1120 can support wireless communications at a network node. For example, the communication manager 1120 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The communication manager 1120 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0127] By including or configuring a communications manager 1120 according to examples as described herein, the device 1105 (e.g., a processor controlling or otherwise coupled to the receiver 1110, the transmitter 1115, the communications manager 1120, or a combination thereof) may support techniques for receiving reports of frequency shift capabilities for backscatter communications, which may provide additional flexibility and capability to the system and provide various devices with low-cost and low-complexity connectivity (e.g., in IoT systems).

[0128] Figure 12 A block diagram 1200 illustrates a device 1205 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter capability with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The device 1205 may be an example of aspects of the device 1105 or the network entity 105 as described herein. The device 1205 may include a receiver 1210, a transmitter 1215, and a communication manager 1220. The device 1205 may also include a processor. Each of these components may communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0129] Receiver 1210 may provide means for obtaining (e.g., receiving, determining, identifying) information associated with various channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels, channels associated with a protocol stack), such as user data, control information, or any combination thereof (e.g., I / Q samples, symbols, packets, protocol data units, service data units). The information may be communicated to other components of device 1205. In some examples, receiver 1210 may support obtaining information by receiving signals via one or more antennas. Additionally or alternatively, receiver 1210 may support obtaining information by receiving signals via one or more wired (e.g., electrical, optical) interfaces, wireless interfaces, or any combination thereof.

[0130] The transmitter 1215 may provide means for outputting (e.g., transmitting, providing, conveying, transmitting) information generated by other components of the device 1205. For example, the transmitter 1215 may output information associated with various channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels, channels associated with a protocol stack), such as user data, control information, or any combination thereof (e.g., I / Q samples, symbols, packets, protocol data units, service data units). In some examples, the transmitter 1215 may support outputting information by transmitting signals via one or more antennas. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter 1215 may support outputting information by transmitting signals via one or more wired (e.g., electrical, optical) interfaces, wireless interfaces, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the transmitter 1215 and the receiver 1210 may be co-located in a transceiver, which may include or be coupled to a modem.

[0131] Device 1205 or its various components may be examples of means for performing various aspects of the reporting techniques with frequency shifted backscatter capability as described herein. For example, communications manager 1220 may include backscatter modulation manager 1225, backscatter communications manager 1230, or any combination thereof. Communications manager 1220 may be examples of aspects of communications manager 1120 as described herein. In some examples, communications manager 1220 or its various components may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, obtain, monitor, output, transmit) using or otherwise coordinating with receiver 1210, transmitter 1215, or both. For example, communications manager 1220 may receive information from receiver 1210, transmit information to transmitter 1215, or be integrated in conjunction with receiver 1210, transmitter 1215, or both to obtain information, output information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

[0132] According to examples disclosed herein, a communication manager 1220 can support wireless communications at a network node. A backscatter modulation manager 1225 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. A backscatter communication manager 1230 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0133] Figure 13A block diagram 1300 illustrates a communication manager 1320 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter-capable frequency shifting, in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Communication manager 1320 may be an example of aspects of communication manager 1120, communication manager 1220, or both, as described herein. Communication manager 1320 or its various components may be examples of means for performing various aspects of reporting techniques for backscatter-capable frequency shifting, as described herein. For example, communication manager 1320 may include a backscatter modulation manager 1325, a backscatter communication manager 1330, a frequency shift manager 1335, an energy state manager 1340, a frequency hopping manager 1345, or any combination thereof. Each of these components may communicate with one another directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses), which communication may include communication within a protocol layer of a protocol stack, communication associated with a logical channel of the protocol stack (e.g., between protocol layers of the protocol stack, within a device, component, or virtualized component associated with network entity 105, or between devices, components, or virtualized components associated with network entity 105), or any combination thereof.

[0134] According to examples disclosed herein, a communication manager 1320 can support wireless communications at a network node. A backscatter modulation manager 1325 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. A backscatter communication manager 1330 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0135] In some examples, backscatter communication manager 1330 can be configured as or otherwise support means for sending a signal to a UE requesting a backscatter capability report. In some examples, frequency shift manager 1335 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a backscatter capability report indicating one or more of: whether frequency shifting is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shift supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the backscatter capability report indicates an amount of frequency shift supported for frequency shifting a reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

[0136] In some examples, the backscatter communication manager 1330 may be configured as or otherwise support a component for sending an inquiry signal after receiving a backscatter capability report, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the UE is in response to the inquiry signal.

[0137] In some examples, backscatter communication manager 1330 may be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a request to disable communications with a network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation.

[0138] In some examples, energy state manager 1340 can be configured as or otherwise support means for identifying that a backscatter capability report also includes a requested power amount for an inquiry signal from a network node, and the power of the inquiry signal is determined based on the requested power amount. In some examples, backscatter communication manager 1330 can be configured as or otherwise support means for interrupting communications with a UE using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation.

[0139] In some examples, the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE performs frequency shifting of reflected signals from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE, and communicating with the UE is based on the square wave or sine wave frequency shift of the UE. In some examples, the frequency hopping manager 1345 can be configured as or otherwise support means for identifying that the backscatter capability report indicates the UE's frequency hopping capability for frequency shifting reflected signals from the UE using backscatter modulation.

[0140] Figure 14 A diagram illustrating a system 1400 including a device 1405 supporting reporting techniques for backscatter with frequency shifting according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is shown. Device 1405 may be an example of device 1105, device 1205, or network entity 105 as described herein, or include components thereof. Device 1405 may communicate with one or more network entities 105, one or more UEs 115, or any combination thereof, which may include communication via one or more wired interfaces, via one or more wireless interfaces, or any combination thereof. Device 1405 may include components that support outgoing and incoming communications, such as a communication manager 1420, a transceiver 1410, an antenna 1415, memory 1425, code 1430, and a processor 1435. These components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1440).

[0141] As described herein, the transceiver 1410 may support bidirectional communication via a wired link, a wireless link, or both. In some examples, the transceiver 1410 may include a wired transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wired transceiver. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the transceiver 1410 may include a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. In some examples, the device 1405 may include one or more antennas 1415, which may be capable of (e.g., concurrently) transmitting or receiving wireless transmissions. The transceiver 1410 may also include a modem for modulating a signal, for providing the modulated signal for transmission (e.g., via one or more antennas 1415, via a wired transmitter), for receiving the modulated signal (e.g., from one or more antennas 1415, from a wired receiver), and for demodulating the signal. In some implementations, the transceiver 1410 may include one or more interfaces, such as one or more interfaces coupled to one or more antennas 1415 configured to support various receive or obtain operations, or one or more interfaces coupled to one or more antennas 1415 configured to support various transmit or output operations, or a combination thereof. In some implementations, the transceiver 1410 may include or be configured to be coupled to one or more processors or memory components operable to perform or support operations based on received or obtained information or signals, or to generate information or other signals for transmission or other output, or any combination thereof. In some implementations, the transceiver 1410, or the transceiver 1410 and one or more antennas 1415, or the transceiver 1410 and one or more antennas 1415 and one or more processors or memory components (e.g., processor 1435, memory 1425, or both) may be included in a chip or chip assembly installed in the device 1405. In some examples, the transceiver may be operable to support communications via one or more communication links (eg, communication link 125 , backhaul communication link 120 , midhaul communication link 162 , fronthaul communication link 168 ).

[0142] Memory 1425 may include RAM and ROM. Memory 1425 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code 1430 including instructions that, when executed by processor 1435, cause device 1405 to perform the various functions described herein. Code 1430 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (such as system memory) or another type of memory. In some cases, code 1430 may not be directly executable by processor 1435, but may (e.g., when compiled and executed) cause a computer to perform the functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1425 may include a BIOS, etc., which may control basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0143] The processor 1435 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, a CPU, an FPGA, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 1435 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 1435. The processor 1435 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 1425) to cause the device 1405 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting a reporting technique for backscattering with frequency shifting). For example, the device 1405 or a component of the device 1405 may include a processor 1435 and a memory 1425 coupled to the processor 1435, the processor 1435 and the memory 1425 being configured to perform the various functions described herein. Processor 1435 may be an example of a cloud computing platform (e.g., one or more physical nodes and supporting software (such as an operating system, virtual machine, or container instance)) that can host functionality for performing the functions of device 1405 (e.g., by executing code 1430). Processor 1435 may be any one or more suitable processors capable of executing scripts or instructions of one or more software programs stored in device 1405 (such as within memory 1425). In some implementations, processor 1435 may be a component of a processing system. A processing system may generally refer to a system or series of machines or components that receives inputs and processes those inputs to produce a set of outputs (which may be passed to, for example, other systems or components of device 1405). For example, a processing system of device 1405 may refer to a system that includes various other components or subcomponents of device 1405 (such as processor 1435, or transceiver 1410, or communication manager 1420, or other components or combinations of components of device 1405). The processing system of device 1405 can interface with other components of device 1405 and can process information (such as input or signals) received from other components or output information to other components. For example, the chip or modem of device 1405 may include a processing system and one or more interfaces for outputting information or for obtaining information, or both. The one or more interfaces may be implemented as or otherwise include a first interface configured to output information and a second interface configured to obtain information, or the same interface configured to output information and obtain information, among other specific implementations. In some specific implementations, the one or more interfaces may refer to an interface between the processing system of the chip or modem and a transmitter, so that the device 1405 can transmit information output from the chip or modem.Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, one or more interfaces may refer to an interface between a processing system of a chip or modem and a receiver, such that the device 1405 can obtain information or signal input and pass the information to the processing system. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize that a first interface can also obtain information or signal input, and a second interface can also output information or signal output.

[0144] In some examples, bus 1440 may support communications for protocol layers of a protocol stack (e.g., within a protocol layer). In some examples, bus 1440 may support communications associated with logical channels of a protocol stack (e.g., between protocol layers of a protocol stack), which may include communications performed within components of device 1405, or communications performed between different components of device 1405 that may be co-located or located in different locations (e.g., where device 1405 may refer to a system in which one or more of communication manager 1420, transceiver 1410, memory 1425, code 1430, and processor 1435 may be located in one of the different components or divided between the different components).

[0145] In some examples, communication manager 1420 can manage aspects of communications with core network 130 (e.g., via one or more wired or wireless backhaul links). For example, communication manager 1420 can manage the delivery of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs 115. In some examples, communication manager 1420 can manage communications with other network entities 105 and can include a controller or scheduler for controlling communications with UEs 115 in coordination with other network entities 105. In some examples, communication manager 1420 can support an X2 interface within LTE / LTE-A wireless communication network technology to provide communications between network entities 105.

[0146] According to examples disclosed herein, the communication manager 1420 can support wireless communications at a network node. For example, the communication manager 1420 can be configured as or otherwise support means for receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The communication manager 1420 can be configured as or otherwise support means for communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0147] By including or configuring a communications manager 1420 according to examples as described herein, the device 1405 may support techniques for receiving reports of frequency shift capabilities for backscatter communications, which may provide additional flexibility and capability for the system and provide various devices with low-cost and low-complexity connectivity (e.g., in IoT systems).

[0148] In some examples, the communication manager 1420 can be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receive, acquire, monitor, output, transmit) using or otherwise cooperating with the transceiver 1410, one or more antennas 1415 (e.g., where applicable), or any combination thereof. Although the communication manager 1420 is illustrated as a separate component, in some examples, one or more functions described with reference to the communication manager 1420 can be supported or performed by the transceiver 1410, the processor 1435, the memory 1425, the code 1430, or any combination thereof. For example, the code 1430 can include instructions executable by the processor 1435 to cause the device 1405 to perform various aspects of the reporting technique for backscatter with frequency shift capability as described herein, or the processor 1435 and the memory 1425 can be otherwise configured to perform or support such operations.

[0149] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating a method 1500 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 1500 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1500 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 10 The described functions may be performed by the UE 115. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0150] Optionally, at 1505, the method may include receiving a signal that triggers a backscatter capability report. The operations of 1505 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1505 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0151] At 1510, the method may include sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 1510 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1510 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9The backscatter modulation manager 925 described is performed.

[0152] At 1515, the method may include communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 1515 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1515 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0153] Figure 16 A flowchart illustrating a method 1600 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 1600 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1600 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 10 The described functions may be performed by the UE 115. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0154] At 1605, the method may include sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 1605 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1605 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter modulation manager 925 described is performed.

[0155] At 1610, the method may include communicating with a network node using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 1610 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1610 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0156] At 1615, the method may include receiving an inquiry signal after sending the backscatter capability report, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the network node is responsive to the inquiry signal. The operations of 1615 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1615 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0157] Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating a method 1700 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 1700 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1700 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 10 The described functions may be performed by the UE 115. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0158] At 1705, the method may include sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 1705 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1705 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter modulation manager 925 described is performed.

[0159] At 1710, the method may include communicating with a network node using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 1710 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1710 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0160] At 1715, the method may include determining one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE. The operations of 1715 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1715 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 9 The described energy state manager 940 is executed.

[0161] At 1720, the method may include requesting disabling communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation based on one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE. The operations of 1720 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1720 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0162] Figure 18A flowchart illustrating a method 1800 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 1800 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1800 may be implemented by a UE or components thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 10 The described functions may be performed by the UE 115. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0163] At 1805, the method may include sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 1805 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1805 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter modulation manager 925 described is performed.

[0164] At 1810, the method may include receiving an indication of one or more frequency shift parameters for communicating with a network node. The operations of 1810 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1810 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 9 The described frequency shift manager 935 is performed.

[0165] At 1815, the method may include communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 1815 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1815 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 9 The backscatter communication manager 930 described above is executed.

[0166] Figure 19 A flowchart illustrating a method 1900 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 1900 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 1900 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 6 as well as Figures 11 to 14 In some examples, the network entity may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the network entity to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the network entity may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0167] Optionally, at 1905, the method may include sending a signal to the UE requesting a backscatter capability report. The operations of 1905 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1905 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0168] At 1910, the method may include receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 1910 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1910 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 13 The backscatter modulation manager 1325 described is executed.

[0169] At 1915, the method may include communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 1915 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 1915 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0170] Figure 20 A flowchart illustrating a method 2000 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 2000 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 2000 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 6 as well as Figures 11 to 14 In some examples, the network entity may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the network entity to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the network entity may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0171] At 2005, the method may include receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 2005 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2005 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 13 The backscatter modulation manager 1325 described is executed.

[0172] At 2010, the method may include communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 2010 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2010 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0173] At 2015, the method may include sending an inquiry signal after receiving the backscatter capability report, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the UE is responsive to the inquiry signal. The operations of 2015 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2015 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0174] Figure 21 A flowchart illustrating a method 2100 for supporting a reporting technique for backscatter capability with frequency shift according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The operations of the method 2100 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 2100 may be implemented by a network entity or component thereof as described herein. Figures 1 to 6 as well as Figures 11 to 14 In some examples, the network entity may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the network entity to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the network entity may use dedicated hardware to perform various aspects of the described functions.

[0175] At 2105, the method may include receiving a backscatter capability report from the UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation. The operations of 2105 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2105 may be performed as described with reference to Figure 13 The backscatter modulation manager 1325 described is executed.

[0176] At 2110, the method may include communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based on one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report. The operations of 2110 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2110 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0177] At 2115, the method may include receiving a request to disable communication with a network node using frequency shifted backscatter modulation. The operations of 2115 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2115 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0178] At 2120, the method may include interrupting communications with the UE using frequency shift backscatter modulation. The operations of 2120 may be performed according to examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of 2120 may be performed as described in reference to Figure 13 The backscatter communication manager 1330 described above is executed.

[0179] The following provides an overview of various aspects of the disclosure:

[0180] Aspect 1: A method for wireless communication at a UE, the method comprising: sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0181] Aspect 2: The method according to aspect 1, further comprising: receiving a signal triggering the backscatter capability report, and wherein the sending is in response to the signal.

[0182] Aspect 3: A method according to any one of Aspects 1 to 2, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of the following: whether frequency shift is supported at the UE, the amount of frequency shift supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

[0183] Aspect 4: According to the method of any one of Aspects 1 to 3, the method also includes: receiving an inquiry signal after sending the backscatter capability report, the inquiry signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the network node is in response to the inquiry signal.

[0184] Aspect 5: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates whether the frequency shift capability at the UE is enabled or disabled.

[0185] Aspect 6: According to the method described in any one of Aspects 1 to 5, the method further includes: determining one or more of the energy state or the available power at the UE; and requesting to disable communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation based at least in part on the energy state or one or more of the available power at the UE.

[0186] Aspect 7: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the backscatter capability report further includes a requested power amount of an interrogation signal from the network node for performing backscatter modulation with frequency shift.

[0187] Aspect 8: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE performs frequency shifting on the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE.

[0188] Aspect 9: The method of aspect 8, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more parameters associated with frequency or clock stability, expected offset between the frequency or clock and an interrogation signal frequency, or any combination thereof.

[0189] Aspect 10: The method of aspect 9, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more of a jitter range associated with generating the square wave or the expected offset for a frequency shift using the square wave.

[0190] Aspect 11: The method of any one of aspects 9 to 10, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more of a phase noise class associated with generating the sinusoidal wave or the expected offset for a frequency shift using the local oscillator.

[0191] Aspect 12: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, further comprising: receiving an indication of one or more frequency shift parameters used for communicating with the network node.

[0192] Aspect 13: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 12, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates the frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

[0193] Aspect 14: The method according to aspect 13, wherein the frequency hopping capability includes an indication of one or more of the following: a switching gap time supported at the UE, a number of frequency hopping supported at the UE, one or more hopping patterns supported at the UE, or any combination thereof.

[0194] Aspect 15: A method for wireless communication at a network node, the method comprising: receiving a backscatter capability report from a UE, the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; and communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capability report.

[0195] Aspect 16: The method according to aspect 15 further comprises: sending a signal to the UE requesting the backscatter capability report.

[0196] Aspect 17: A method according to any one of Aspects 15 to 16, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of the following: whether frequency shift is supported at the UE, the amount of frequency shift supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

[0197] Aspect 18: According to the method described in any one of Aspects 15 to 17, the method further includes: after receiving the backscatter capability report, sending an inquiry signal, wherein the inquiry signal initiates backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein the communication with the UE is in response to the inquiry signal.

[0198] Aspect 19: The method according to any one of aspects 15 to 18, further comprising: receiving a request to disable communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation; and interrupting communication with the UE using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation.

[0199] Aspect 20: The method according to any one of aspects 15 to 19, wherein the backscatter capability report also includes a requested power amount of an inquiry signal from the network node, and the power of the inquiry signal is determined at least in part based on the requested power amount.

[0200] Aspect 21: A method according to any one of Aspects 15 to 20, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE uses a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE to perform a frequency shift on the reflected signal from the UE, and communicating with the UE is at least partially based on the square wave or sine wave frequency shift of the UE.

[0201] Aspect 22: The method according to any one of aspects 15 to 21, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates an amount of frequency shift supported for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

[0202] Aspect 23: The method according to any one of aspects 15 to 22, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates the frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

[0203] Aspect 24: An apparatus for wireless communication at a UE, the apparatus comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform a method according to any one of aspects 1 to 14.

[0204] Aspect 25: An apparatus for wireless communication at a UE, the apparatus comprising at least one component for performing the method according to any one of aspects 1 to 14.

[0205] Aspect 26: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a UE, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform the method according to any one of aspects 1 to 14.

[0206] Aspect 27: An apparatus for wireless communication at a network node, the apparatus comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform a method according to any one of aspects 15 to 23.

[0207] Aspect 28: An apparatus for wireless communication at a network node, the apparatus comprising at least one component for performing the method according to any one of aspects 15 to 23.

[0208] Aspect 29: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a network node, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform the method according to any one of aspects 15 to 23.

[0209] It should be noted that the methods described herein describe possible implementations, and that the operations and steps may be rearranged or otherwise modified and that other implementations are possible. Furthermore, aspects from two or more methods may be combined.

[0210] Although aspects of LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR systems may be described for example purposes, and LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR terminology may be used throughout much of the description, the techniques described herein may also be applicable to networks other than LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR networks. For example, the techniques described may be applicable to various other wireless communication systems, such as Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, and other systems and radio technologies not explicitly mentioned herein.

[0211] The information and signals described herein may be represented by any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips referred to throughout the description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0212] The various illustrative blocks and components described in conjunction with the disclosure herein may be implemented or performed using a general purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, a CPU, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in combination with a DSP core, or any other such configuration).

[0213] The functions described herein may be implemented using hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented using software executed by a processor, the functions may be stored as one or more instructions or codes of a computer-readable medium, or sent using one or more instructions or codes of a computer-readable medium. Other examples and specific implementations are within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, the functions described herein may be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hard wiring, or a combination of any of these. Features that implement the functions may also be physically located at different locations, including being distributed so that various parts of the functions are implemented at different physical locations.

[0214] Computer readable medium includes both non-transient computer storage medium and communication medium, and this communication medium includes any medium that promotes computer program to be transferred from one location to another location.Non-transient storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by general or special-purpose computer.By way of example and not limitation, non-transient computer readable medium can include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, compact disc (CD) ROM or other optical disc storage device, magnetic disk storage device or other magnetic storage device or can be used for carrying or storing desired program code components and any other non-transient medium that can be accessed by general or special-purpose computer or general or special-purpose processor in the form of instruction or data structure.Moreover, any connection is appropriately referred to as computer readable medium.For example, if software is to be sent from website, server or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL) or wireless technology such as infrared, radio and microwave, then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL or wireless technology such as infrared, radio and microwave are included in the definition of computer readable medium. As used herein, disks and optical discs include CDs, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs. Magnetic disks can reproduce data magnetically, and optical discs can reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0215] As used herein (including in the claims), "or" used in a list of items (e.g., a list of items followed by a phrase such as "at least one of" or "one or more of") indicates an inclusive list, so that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). In addition, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should not be interpreted as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an example step described as "based on condition A" can be based on both condition A and condition B without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In other words, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should be interpreted in the same manner as the phrase "based at least in part on."

[0216] The term "determining" encompasses a variety of actions, and thus, "determining" may include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up (such as via looking up in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, and the like. Furthermore, "determining" may include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data stored in a memory), etc. Furthermore, "determining" may include parsing, retrieving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and other such similar actions.

[0217] In the drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference number. In addition, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference number with a dash and a second label to distinguish between similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description can apply to any of the similar components having the same first reference label, regardless of the second reference label or other subsequent reference labels.

[0218] The description set forth herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings describes example configurations and does not represent all examples that may be implemented or within the scope of the claims. The term "example" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," rather than "preferred" or "having advantages over other examples." The detailed description includes specific details to provide an understanding of the described techniques. However, these techniques can be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described examples.

[0219] The description herein is provided to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; as well as Communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capabilities report.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: A signal is received that triggers the backscatter capability reporting, and wherein the transmitting is in response to the signal.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shift is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shift supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: An interrogation signal is received after sending the backscatter capability report, the interrogation signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the network node is in response to the interrogation signal. 5 . The method of claim 1 , wherein the backscatter capability report indicates whether a frequency shift capability at the UE is enabled or disabled.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE; as well as Disabling of communicating with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation is requested based at least in part on one or more of the energy state or the available power at the UE.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the backscatter capability report further includes a requested power amount from the network node for performing an interrogation signal with backscatter modulation having a frequency shift.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the backscatter capability report instructs the UE to perform frequency shifting of the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more parameters associated with frequency or clock stability, an expected offset between the frequency or clock and an interrogation signal frequency, or any combination thereof.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more of a jitter range associated with generating the square wave, or the expected offset for a frequency shift using the square wave.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the backscatter capability report further indicates one or more of a phase noise class associated with generating the sine wave or the expected offset for a frequency shift using the local oscillator.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: An indication of one or more frequency shift parameters for communicating with the network node is received.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates a frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the frequency hopping capability comprises an indication of one or more of: a switching gap time supported at the UE, a number of frequency hopping supported at the UE, one or more hopping patterns supported at the UE, or any combination thereof.

15. A method for wireless communication at a network node, the method comprising: receiving a backscatter capability report from a user equipment (UE), the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; as well as Communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capabilities report.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: Sending a signal to the UE requesting the backscatter capability report.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shift is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shift supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

18. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: An interrogation signal is sent after receiving the backscatter capability report, the interrogation signal initiating backscatter modulated communication based on the one or more frequency shift capabilities of the UE, and wherein communicating with the UE is responsive to the interrogation signal.

19. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: receiving a request to disable communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation; as well as Communications with the UE using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation are discontinued.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the backscatter capability report further includes a requested power amount for an inquiry signal from the network node, and the power of the inquiry signal is determined based at least in part on the requested power amount.

21. The method of claim 15, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates that the UE performs a frequency shift on the reflected signal from the UE using a square wave generated at the UE or a sine wave generated using a local oscillator of the UE, and communicating with the UE is based at least in part on the square wave or sine wave frequency shift of the UE.

22. The method of claim 15, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates an amount of frequency shift supported for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

23. The method of claim 15, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates a frequency hopping capability of the UE for frequency shifting the reflected signal from the UE using backscatter modulation.

24. An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: sending a backscatter capability report to a network node, the backscatter capability report including one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shift capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; as well as Communicating with the network node using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capabilities report.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: A signal is received that triggers the backscatter capability reporting, and wherein the transmitting is in response to the signal.

26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the backscatter capability report indicates one or more of: whether frequency shifting is supported at the UE, an amount of frequency shifting supported at the UE, two or more discrete frequency shifts supported at the UE, dual-sided frequency shift capability, single-sided frequency shift capability, or any combination thereof.

27. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: determining one or more of an energy state or available power at the UE; and Disabling of communicating with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation is requested based at least in part on one or more of the energy state or the available power at the UE.

28. An apparatus for wireless communication at a network node, the apparatus comprising: processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving a backscatter capability report from a user equipment (UE), the backscatter capability report indicating one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE, the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities including one or more frequency shifting capabilities for frequency shifting a reflected signal using backscatter modulation; as well as Communicating with the UE using backscatter modulation based at least in part on the one or more backscatter modulation capabilities of the UE indicated in the backscatter capabilities report.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving a request to disable communication with the network node using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation; and Communications with the UE using frequency-shifted backscatter modulation are discontinued.

30. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein the backscatter capability report further comprises a requested power amount for an inquiry signal from the network node, and wherein a power of the inquiry signal is determined based at least in part on the requested power amount.

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