Contiguous resource block based resource pool for sidelink

Abstract

A user equipment (UE) is configured to: receive configuration information for a resource pool of sidelink connections in an unlicensed frequency band, wherein the resource pool comprises a plurality of contiguous physical resource blocks (PRBs), a first set of resource blocks (RBs) comprising a first subset of the PRBs, a second set of RBs comprising a second subset of the PRBs, and a guard band comprising a third subset of the PRBs; and transmitting a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) transmission or a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission using the resource pool.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates generally to wireless communication systems, and particularly to contiguous resource block based resource pool for sidelink. BACKGROUND

[0002] Several aspects of user equipment (UE) sidelink behavior in unlicensed spectrum remain undefined. One of these aspects is contiguous resource block (RB) based physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) or physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission in unlicensed spectrum. There can be several options regarding the mapping between sub-channels and physical resource blocks (PRBs) in unlicensed spectrum. However, each of these options presents various issues that need to be addressed before a solution can be implemented. SUMMARY

[0003] Some example embodiments relate to a method performed by a user equipment (UE). The method includes receiving configuration information for a resource pool for a sidelink connection in an unlicensed band, where the resource pool includes a plurality of contiguous physical resource blocks (PRBs), a first set of resource blocks (RBs) including a first subset of the PRBs, a second set of RBs including a second subset of the PRBs, and a guard band including a third subset of the PRBs; and transmitting a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) transmission or a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission using the resource pool.

[0004] Other example embodiments relate to a processor of a user equipment (UE) configured to: receive configuration information for a resource pool for a sidelink connection in an unlicensed band, where the resource pool includes a plurality of contiguous physical resource blocks (PRBs), a first set of resource blocks (RBs) including a first subset of the PRBs, a second set of RBs including a second subset of the PRBs, and a guard band including a third subset of the PRBs; and transmit a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) transmission or a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission using the resource pool. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 An exemplary network arrangement is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0006] Figure 2 An exemplary UE is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0007] Figure 3 An exemplary base station is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0008] Figure 4A first example option of mapping between sub-channels and PRBs in a resource pool for sidelink communication in unlicensed spectrum is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0009] Figure 5 An example diagram of a RB set with contiguous PRBs having guard bands in the middle of the sub-channels of the RB set is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0010] Figure 6 A second example option of mapping between sub-channels and PRBs in a resource pool for sidelink communication in unlicensed spectrum is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0011] Figure 7 A third example option of mapping between sub-channels and PRBs in a resource pool for sidelink communication in unlicensed spectrum is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0012] Figure 8 A first alternative of the third example option for resolving PSCCH transmissions in guard bands is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0013] Figure 9 A second alternative of the third example option for resolving PSCCH transmissions in guard bands is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0014] Figure 10 A third alternative of the third example option for resolving PSCCH transmissions in guard bands is shown in accordance with various example embodiments.

[0015] Figure 11 An example of physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH) configuration information for a contiguous RB based resource pool is shown in accordance with various example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The example embodiments can be further understood with reference to the following description and the associated drawings, wherein like elements are provided with the same reference numerals. The example embodiments relate to solutions for contiguous resource block (RB) based physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) or physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmissions in a resource pool.

[0017] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to a UE. However, references to a UE are provided for illustrative purposes only. Exemplary embodiments can be used with any electronic component that can establish a connection to an accessory device and is configured with hardware, software, and / or firmware for exchanging information and data with the accessory device. Thus, a UE described herein is used to represent any electronic component.

[0018] Exemplary embodiments are also described with reference to a 5G New Radio (NR) network. However, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments can also be implemented in other types of networks, including but not limited to LTE networks, future evolutions of cellular protocols (e.g., 6G networks), or any other type of network.

[0019] Exemplary embodiments are also described with reference to sidelink connections. Sidelink connections can generally be understood as transmissions between UEs (e.g., phones, tablets, smartwatches, connected vehicles, etc.) without the need for a base station to transmit or receive data. Sidelink operations can be desirable in scenarios that require ultra-low latency transmissions between connected devices (e.g., connected vehicles).

[0020] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to sidelink communications in unlicensed spectrum. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, unlike licensed spectrum, UEs transmitting in unlicensed spectrum will perform a clear channel assessment procedure, such as a listen-before-talk (LBT) operation, before transmitting on the unlicensed spectrum. This adds a level of complexity to sidelink communications because, in some cases, the LBT operation will fail and the UE will not be able to transmit using the desired resources.

[0021] Aspects of NR sidelink operations in unlicensed spectrum can benefit from further definition. As used herein, unlicensed spectrum can include, but is not limited to, spectrum where access is based on contention (e.g., frequency bands). One of these aspects is UE transmission operations when a sidelink resource pool includes multiple contiguous PRBs. Such a resource pool can include guard band PRBs that can not be used for transmission or certain types of transmissions. When a UE transmits a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) or a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission in such a resource pool, there is a need to define UE behavior to account for issues associated with such resource pools.

[0022] Exemplary embodiments provide various mechanisms that take into account issues associated with a pool of contiguous PRB resources. These mechanisms include, but are not limited to, defining when PSCCH transmissions are allowed, when PSCCH transmissions should be stopped, when PSCCH transmissions will be punctured; defining sub-channels in a resource pool and PRBs that do or do not belong to these sub-channels, PRB mapping within a resource pool, RB sets, and / or sub-channels; and defining physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH) resources in a resource pool. These and other features will be described below with reference to exemplary embodiments.

[0023] Figure 1 An exemplary network arrangement 100 is shown in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. The exemplary network arrangement 100 includes a UE 110 and a UE 112. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the UE 110 and the UE 112 can be any type of electronic component configured to communicate via a network, such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a desktop computer, a smart phone, a phablet, an embedded device, a wearable device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, etc. It should also be appreciated that a practical network arrangement can include any number of UEs used by any number of users. Thus, the example of having two UEs 110 and 112 is provided for illustrative purposes only. Further description will refer to the UE 110, but it should be appreciated that all descriptions of the UE 110 apply to the UE 112 throughout this disclosure.

[0024] The UE 110 can be configured to communicate with one or more networks. In the example of the network arrangement 100, the network with which the UE 110 can wirelessly communicate is a 5G NR radio access network (RAN) 120. However, it should be appreciated that the UE 110 can also communicate with other types of networks (e.g., a 5G cloud RAN, a next generation RAN (NG-RAN), a legacy cellular network, etc.), and that the UE 110 can also communicate with a network through a wired connection. With respect to exemplary embodiments, the UE 110 can establish a connection with the 5G NR RAN 120. Thus, the UE 110 can have a 5G NR chipset to communicate with the NR RAN 120. The UE 110 can also communicate with the UE 112 through an unlicensed sidelink connection, where data is exchanged between the UE 110 and the UE 112 without the gNB 120A.

[0025] 5G NR RAN 120 can be part of a cellular network that can be deployed by a network operator (e.g., Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc.). RAN 120 can include cells or base stations that are configured to transmit and receive traffic from UEs equipped with the appropriate cellular chipset. In this example, 5G NR RAN 120 includes gNB 120A. However, reference to a gNB is provided for illustrative purposes only, as any appropriate base station or cell (e.g., Node B, eNodeB, HeNB, eNB, gNB, gNodeB, macrocell, microcell, small cell, femtocell, etc.) can be deployed.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any relevant procedures can be performed for UE 110 to connect to 5G NR RAN 120. For example, as described above, 5G NR RAN 120 can be associated with a particular network operator at which UE 110 and / or its user has agreement and credential information (e.g., stored on a SIM card). Upon detecting the presence of 5G NR RAN 120, UE 110 can transmit corresponding credential information in order to associate with 5G NR RAN 120. More specifically, UE 110 can associate with a particular cell (e.g., gNB 120A).

[0027] Network arrangement 100 also includes cellular core network 130, Internet 140, IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) 150, and network services backbone 160. Cellular core network 130 manages traffic flowing between the cellular network and Internet 140. IMS 150 can generally be described as an architecture for delivering multimedia services to UE 110 using IP protocols. IMS 150 can communicate with cellular core network 130 and Internet 140 to provide multimedia services to UE 110. Network services backbone 160 communicates with Internet 140 and cellular core network 130, either directly or indirectly. Network services backbone 160 can generally be described as a collection of components (e.g., servers, network storage arrangements, etc.) that implement a suite of services that can be used to extend the functionality of UE 110 in communicating with various networks.

[0028] Figure 2 An exemplary UE 110 is shown in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. UE 110 will be described with reference to Figure 1The network arrangement 100 is described with reference to a UE 110. The UE 110 can represent any electronic device and can include a processor 205, a memory arrangement 210, a display device 215, an input / output (I / O) device 220, a transceiver 225, and other components 230. The other components 230 can include, for example, an audio input device, an audio output device, a battery providing a limited power source, a data acquisition device, a port for electrically connecting the UE 110 to other electronic devices, a sensor for detecting a condition of the UE 110, and the like.

[0029] The processor 205 can be configured to execute a number of engines of the UE 110. For example, an engine can include a sidelink-U configuration engine 235 for performing operations such as determining when to transmit PSCCH and PSSCH transmissions in unlicensed spectrum.

[0030] The above-mentioned engines as applications (e.g., programs) executed by the processor 205 are merely exemplary. The functionality associated with this engine can also be represented as a separate bound component of the UE 110 or can be a modular component coupled to the UE 110, e.g., an integrated circuit with or without firmware. For example, the integrated circuit can include input circuitry for receiving signals and processing circuitry for processing signals and other information. The engine can also be embodied as one application or multiple separate applications. Moreover, in some UEs, the functionality described with respect to the processor 205 is split between two or more processors, such as a baseband processor and an application processor. The exemplary embodiments can be implemented in any of these or other configurations of the UE.

[0031] The memory arrangement 210 can be a hardware component configured to store data related to operations performed by the UE 110. The display device 215 can be a hardware component configured to show data to a user, while the I / O device 220 can be a hardware component that enables a user to enter input. The display device 215 and the I / O device 220 can be separate components or can be integrated together, such as a touch screen. The transceiver 225 can be a hardware component configured to establish a connection with the 5G-NR RAN 120. Thus, the transceiver 225 can operate on various different frequencies or channels, e.g., a set of contiguous frequencies.

[0032] Figure 3 An exemplary base station 300 is shown in accordance with various exemplary embodiments. The base station 300 can represent the gNB 120A or any other access node through which the UE 110 can establish a connection and manage network operations.

[0033] The base station 300 can include a processor 305, a memory arrangement 310, input / output (I / O) devices 315, a transceiver 320, and other components 325. These other components 325 can include, for example, an audio input device, an audio output device, a battery, a data acquisition device, a port for electrically connecting the base station 300 to other electronic devices and / or a power source, etc.

[0034] The processor 305 can be configured to execute a number of engines of the UE 110. For example, an engine can include a sidelink-U configuration engine 330 for performing operations such as generating a (pre)configured resource pool for sidelink communications.

[0035] The memory 310 can be a hardware component configured to store data related to operations performed by the base station 300. The I / O devices 315 can be hardware components or ports that enable a user to interact with the base station 300. The transceiver 320 can be a hardware component configured to exchange data with the UE 110, as well as any other UEs in the network arrangement 100. The transceiver 320 can operate on a variety of different frequencies or channels (e.g., a set of contiguous frequencies). Thus, the transceiver 320 can include one or more components (e.g., radios) to enable data exchange with a variety of networks and UEs.

[0036] As stated above, when there is a contiguous resource block (RB) based physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) or physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission in unlicensed spectrum, there can be several options regarding the mapping between sub-channels and physical resource blocks (PRBs) in unlicensed spectrum. Various options for mapping, issues related to mapping, and various solutions to the issues will be described below.

[0037] Figure 4 A first exemplary option for mapping between sub-channels and PRBs in a resource pool 400 for sidelink communications in unlicensed spectrum is shown. In this example, the sub-channels are aligned with the resource pool boundaries. As will be described in more detail below, the mapping of the sub-channels starts from the first PRB of the resource pool and is mapped sequentially within the resource pool according to the size of the sub-channels. Figure 4

[0038] As Figure 4 ​As shown, resource pool 400 includes two sets of RBs (e.g., RB set 410 and RB set 420) that can be considered to occupy contiguous PRBs. Each of RB set 410 and RB set 420 includes four (4) sub-channels, e.g., RB set 410 includes sub-channel 0 through sub-channel 3 and RB set 420 includes sub-channel 4 through sub-channel 7. In this example, each sub-channel is the same size, e.g., the same number of PRBs. It should be understood that the use of four (4) sub-channels is exemplary only, and each RB set can include more or fewer sub-channels. It should also be understood that in Figure 4 the diagram, frequency can be considered to increase from left to right, e.g., the first PRB of sub-channel 0 is the lowest frequency PRB within resource pool 400 and the last PRB of sub-channel 7 is the highest frequency PRB. Also, since the PRBs are contiguous, the spacing of the sub-channels does not include any unused PRBs. As noted above, in this first option, the sub-channels are aligned with the resource pool boundaries. This is shown in Figure 4 the diagram as the start of sub-channel 1 of RB set 410 aligning with the boundary of resource pool 400 and the end of sub-channel 7 of RB set 420 aligning with the boundary of resource pool 400.

[0039] Resource pool 400 also includes a guard band 430. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a guard band is generally an unused portion of the spectrum between sub-channels that is used to prevent interference between transmissions in the sub-channels, e.g., sub-channel 3 of RB set 410 and sub-channel 4 of RB set 420. However, in the first option, the end of sub-channel 3 (e.g., the last PRB) and the start of sub-channel 4 (e.g., the first PRB) are included in guard band 430.

[0040] As noted above, the first option can result in various problems with transmissions in resource pool 400. For example, one sub-channel can extend across two (2) RB sets. This would mean that UE 110 would need to perform a listen before talk (LBT) operation on both (2) RB sets in order to transmit on that sub-channel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that UE 110 uses an LBT operation in unlicensed spectrum to determine whether a channel is clear in order to transmit, e.g., UE 110 will only transmit if the LBT operation determines that the channel is clear.

[0041] Another problem is that a PSCCH can be (partially) transmitted in the guard band. For example, consider the example of sub-channel 3 of RB set 410, the number of remaining PRBs in sub-channel 3 that are not in guard band 430 can be less than the configured number of PRBs for a PSCCH transmission. UE 110 does not want to transmit a PSCCH in guard band 430 because there is a greater likelihood that the interference will result in a receiving UE not being able to properly receive the PSCCH transmission.

[0042] In some example embodiments, to address the issues related to the first option, several transmission rules can be applied. One example transmission rule can be that for a subchannel whose lowest PRB is in the guard band, a PSCCH transmission can start from the lowest PRB in the next RB set. Referring to Figure 4 , subchannel 4 of RB set 420 is the subchannel whose lowest PRB is in the guard band 430. Thus, if UE 110 has a PDCCH transmission, UE 110 will not transmit the PDCCH in subchannel 4 and RB set 410 at all, but wait for the lowest PRB of the next RB set, which is in Figure 4 not shown because the next RB set will be part of the next resource pool. In this example, if UE 110 has a PSSCH transmission, the transmission can start on the first PRB of subchannel 4 that is in the guard band 430.

[0043] Another example transmission rule can be that for a subchannel whose highest PRB is in the guard band, a PSCCH transmission stops at the last PRB in the RB set. Referring to Figure 4 , subchannel 3 of RB set 410 is the subchannel whose highest PRB is in the guard band 430. Thus, if UE 110 has a PSCCH transmission, UE 110 can start the PSCCH transmission on the PRBs of subchannel 3 that are in RB set 410, but will not transmit the PSCCH in the PRBs of subchannel 3 that are in the guard band 430.

[0044] A further example transmission rule can be that for a subchannel where the middle PRB is in the guard band, a PSCCH transmission skips the PRBs in the guard band. Figure 5 This example of the guard band in the middle PRB of a subchannel is not illustrated, thus Figure 5 will be used for these purposes.

[0045] Figure 5 An example diagram 500 of RB sets with contiguous PRBs with a guard band in the middle of the subchannels of the RB sets is shown, according to various example embodiments. In Figure 4In the middle, the y-axis shows the subchannel 510 (e.g., frequency), and the x-axis shows the time slot 520 (e.g., time). As shown in this example, the guard band 530 can be in the middle of the subchannel 510. The UE 110 can have a PSCCH transmission. Thus, following the rules described above where the PSCCH transmission skips PRBs in the guard band, the UE will start transmitting the PSCCH (e.g., PSCCH 540) on the lowest frequency PRB of the subchannel 510. When the guard band 530 is reached (e.g., in frequency), the UE 110 will stop the PSCCH transmission, and can transmit the PSSCH 550 on the PRBs in the guard band 530. When the PRBs are no longer in the guard band 530, the UE 110 can continue transmitting the PSCCH 540 on the PRBs outside of the guard band 530.

[0046] As described above, some of the example rules can result in a PSCCH transmission being stopped (e.g., when the highest PRB of a subchannel is in the guard band) or split (e.g., when the middle PRB of a subchannel is in the guard band). In these cases, the PSCCH resource mapping should be resolved. In some example embodiments, the PSCCH can be rate matched over the remaining PRBs and symbols. In other example embodiments, the PSCCH transmission is punctured over the PRBs in the guard band.

[0047] In the example provided above for the first option, it is considered that the resource pool 400 is evenly divided into eight (8) subchannels 0-7 in frequency. However, there can be cases where the resource pool is evenly divided into subchannels in frequency, but there are remaining PRBs (e.g., leftover PRBs). In Figure 6 In the example of FIG. 6, the leftover PRBs can be considered to be after (e.g., higher in frequency) the last PRB of the subchannel 7. In this case, the leftover PRBs are not used.

[0048] Figure 6 A second example option for mapping between subchannels and PRBs in a resource pool 600 for sidelink communications in unlicensed spectrum is shown, in accordance with various example embodiments. In the example of FIG. 6, the subchannels are aligned with the RB set boundaries. In each RB set, the mapping of the subchannels starts from the first PRB of the RB set and maps sequentially within the RB set according to the subchannel size. Figure 6

[0049] As described above, some of the example rules can result in a PSCCH transmission being stopped (e.g., when the highest PRB of a subchannel is in the guard band) or split (e.g., when the middle PRB of a subchannel is in the guard band). In these cases, the PSCCH resource mapping should be resolved. In some example embodiments, the PSCCH can be rate matched over the remaining PRBs and symbols. In other example embodiments, the PSCCH transmission is punctured over the PRBs in the guard band. Figure 6 ​As shown, resource pool 600 includes two RB sets (e.g., RB set 610 and RB set 620) that can be considered to occupy contiguous PRBs and a guard band 630. As described above, in each RB set, the mapping of sub-channels starts at the first PRB of the RB set and maps in order within the RB set according to the sub-channel size. Thus, sub-channel 0 of RB set 610 starts at the first PRB of RB set 610. Sub-channels 1 and 2 of RB set 610 have the same size (in frequency) as sub-channel 0, and sub-channels 0-2 occupy contiguous PRBs of RB set 610. However, as shown, there are not enough remaining PRBs 640 in RB set 610 to have a fourth sub-channel that is the same size as the other sub-channels. Figure 6

[0050] To complete the example, sub-channel 3 of RB set 620 starts at the first PRB of RB set 620. Sub-channels 4 and 5 of RB set 620 have the same size (in frequency) as sub-channel 3 (and sub-channels 0-2), and sub-channels 3-5 occupy contiguous PRBs of RB set 620. However, as shown, there are not enough remaining PRBs 650 in RB set 620 to have a fourth sub-channel that is the same size as the other sub-channels. Figure 6

[0051] Similar to the first option, in the second option, the guard band cannot be used for PSCCH transmissions. Thus, one issue that arises with the second option is the waste of resources. For example, the remaining PRBs in the RB set and the PRBs in the guard band are not used.

[0052] To address the issue of the second option, in some example embodiments, the intra-cell guard band PRBs are not used, and if the number of PRBs of one RB set cannot be divided by the sub-channel size, then the remaining PRBs are not used. However, this rule can include exceptions. In a first example exception, the highest sub-channel in the lower RB set can be extended. Referring to Figure 6 , the highest sub-channel in the lower RB set is sub-channel 2 of RB set 610. In this example, this example exception would extend sub-channel 2 to include the remaining PRBs 640 and / or the PRBs of guard band 630. Note that this would mean that sub-channel 2 would no longer have the same size (in frequency) as the other sub-channels 0-1 of RB set 610. However, this exception then allows for PSCCH and PSSCH transmissions using the remaining PRBs 640 and PSSCH transmissions using the PRBs of guard band 630, thereby not wasting resources.

[0053] In a second example exception, the lowest sub-channel in the higher RB set can be extended. Referring to Figure 7 ​​The lowest subchannel in the higher RB set is subchannel 3 of RB set 620. In this example, this exemplary exception would extend subchannel 3 to include the remaining PRB 640 and / or the PRB in guard band 630. It should be noted that this would mean subchannel 3 would no longer have the same size (in frequency) as the other subchannels 4 through 5 of RB set 620. However, this exception then allows for PSCCH and PSSCH transmissions using the remaining PRB 640 and PSSCH transmissions using the PRB in guard band 630, thus avoiding resource waste.

[0054] Figure 7 A third exemplary option is shown, according to various exemplary embodiments, for mapping sub-channels and PRBs within a resource pool 700 for sidelink communication in unlicensed spectrum. Figure 7 In the example, the subchannels are aligned with the boundaries of the RB set. Within each RB set, the mapping of subchannels begins with the first PRB of the RB set and is sequentially mapped within the RB set and / or guard band according to the subchannel size.

[0055] like Figure 7 As shown, resource pool 700 includes two RB sets (e.g., RB set 710 and RB set 720) that can be considered to occupy consecutive PRBs and a guard band 730. As described above, in each RB set, the mapping of subchannels starts from the first PRB of the RB set and is mapped sequentially within the RB set and / or guard band according to the subchannel size. Therefore, subchannel 0 of RB set 710 starts at the first PRB of RB set 710. Subchannels 1 and 2 of RB set 710 have the same size (in frequency) as subchannel 0, and subchannels 0 to 2 occupy consecutive PRBs of RB set 710. However, as Figure 7 As shown, subchannel 3 begins in RB set 710 (e.g., immediately following the last PRB of subchannel 2) but extends into the PRB of guard band 730. This allows subchannel 3 to have the same size as subchannels 0-2.

[0056] To complete this example, subchannel 4 of RB set 720 begins at the first PRB of RB set 720. Subchannels 5 and 6 of RB set 720 have the same size (in frequency) as subchannel 4 (and subchannels 0 to 3), and subchannels 4 to 6 occupy consecutive PRBs of RB set 720. However, as also... Figure 8 to Figure 10 As shown, there are not enough remaining PRBs 740 in the RB set 720 to have a fourth subchannel of the same size as the other subchannels.

[0057] Before discussing the problem of the third option, it should also be understood that instead of extending subchannel 3 of RB set 710 into guard band 730, the remaining PRBs can also be made in RB set 710 and subchannel 4 of RB set 720 is extended into guard band 730, which would result in an additional subchannel in RB set 720. The solution provided below for the problem of the third option can be applied mutatis mutandis to this arrangement of resource pools, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0058] Similar to the options above, in the third option, the guard band cannot be used for PSCCH transmission. Reference will be made to Figure 8 Some example embodiments for solving the problem of the third option are described.

[0059] Figure 8 A first alternative 800 for solving the third example option of PSCCH transmission in a guard band is shown, in accordance with various example embodiments. Figure 7 RB set 810, RB set 820, and guard band 830 are shown. It also shows subchannels 0 through 6 arranged in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figure 9 For the purposes of this first alternative, only subchannel 3 is described, as it is the subchannel of interest.

[0060] With reference to subchannel 3, in this example embodiment, if the number of remaining PRBs in the RB set (e.g., RB set 810) is greater than or equal to the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 840, and if the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 810 plus the number of PRBs of guard band 830 is greater than or equal to the configured subchannel size, then subchannel 3 is made up of the remaining PRBs in RB set 810 plus a number of PRBs of guard band 830, such that the total number of PRBs of subchannel 3 is equal to the configured subchannel size. Thus, in this example, since the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 840 does not extend beyond the boundary of RB set 810, it is acceptable for subchannel 3 to extend beyond RB set 810 into guard band 830.

[0061] Figure 9 A second alternative 900 for solving the third example option of PSCCH transmission in a guard band is shown, in accordance with various example embodiments. Figure 7 RB set 910, RB set 920, and guard band 930 are shown. It also shows subchannels 0 through 6 arranged in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figure 9 For the purposes of this first alternative, only subchannel 3 is described, as it is the subchannel of interest.

[0062] Referring to subchannel 3, in this example implementation, if the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 810 is less than the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 940 (e.g., the PSCCH PRBs would extend into guard band 940), then the remaining PRBs in RB set 910 are not used. Thus, in this example, subchannel 3 is shown as a dashed box because, based on the rules defined in this first alternative, subchannel 3 does not exist. Figure 10 Referring to subchannel 3, in this example implementation, if the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 810 is less than the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 940 (e.g., the PSCCH PRBs would extend into guard band 940), then the remaining PRBs in RB set 910 are not used. Thus, in this example, subchannel 3 is shown as a dashed box because, based on the rules defined in this first alternative, subchannel 3 does not exist.

[0063] Figure 10 A third alternative 1000 for a third example option for resolving PSCCH transmissions in a guard band is shown, in accordance with various example implementations. Figure 7 RB set 1010, RB set 1020, and guard band 1030 are shown. It also shows subchannels 0-6 arranged in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figure 10 For the purposes of this first alternative, only subchannel 3 is described because it is the subchannel of interest.

[0064] Referring to subchannel 3, in this example implementation, if the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 is greater than or equal to the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 1040, but the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 plus the number of PRBs of guard band 1030 is less than the configured subchannel size, then the remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 are not used. That is, even though the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 1040 would fit in the PRBs of RB set 1010, the size of subchannel 3 would be different (e.g., smaller) than the size of other subchannels 0-2 of RB set 1010. Thus, in this example, subchannel 3 is shown as a dashed box because, based on the rules defined in this third alternative, subchannel 3 does not exist. Figure 11 Referring to subchannel 3, in this example implementation, if the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 is greater than or equal to the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 1040, but the number of remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 plus the number of PRBs of guard band 1030 is less than the configured subchannel size, then the remaining PRBs in RB set 1010 are not used. That is, even though the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 1040 would fit in the PRBs of RB set 1010, the size of subchannel 3 would be different (e.g., smaller) than the size of other subchannels 0-2 of RB set 1010. Thus, in this example, subchannel 3 is shown as a dashed box because, based on the rules defined in this third alternative, subchannel 3 does not exist.

[0065] Figure 7 An example of physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH) configuration information for a contiguous RB-based resource pool 1100, in accordance with various example implementations, is shown. Resource pool 1100 includes RB set 1110, RB set 1020, and guard band 1130. It also shows subchannels 0-6 arranged in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figure 11 subchannels 0-6 and the configured number of PSCCH PRBs 1140 are the same as shown in Figure 10 because the rules of Figure 10 result in the same figure. Figure 11

[0066] However, Figure 11 ​The purpose of the resource pool 1100 is to illustrate ways in which PSFCH resources can be configured within the resource pool 1100. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the resource pool 1100 can include PSFCH resources for a receiving UE to report information (e.g., ACK / NACK information) back to a transmitting UE. These PSFCH resources can be defined within the resource pool, e.g., in a set of RBs, in an interlace of a set of RBs, in dedicated PRBs of a set of RBs, etc. Figure 11 Various ways of providing configuration information for PSFCH are indicated.

[0067] Initially, it should be understood that PSFCH configuration information can include one or more bitmaps that identify PSFCH resources within the resource pool 1100. The bitmaps can be provided to a UE in configuration information, e.g., a bitmap “sl-PSFCH-RB-Set” in a “SL-PSFCH-Config” information element (IE) in a sidelink resource pool (pre-)configuration. These IEs are provided by way of example only, and it should be understood that other IEs or other types of signaling can be used to provide PSFCH configuration information to a UE.

[0068] In example embodiments, a single bitmap can apply to the entire resource pool 1100, or there can be a bitmap for each RB set (e.g., RB set 1110 and RB set 1120) within the resource pool 1100. A first set of alternatives to the example of a single bitmap applying to the entire resource pool 1100 is illustrated at the top of Figure 11 and labeled Alt A-1 through Alt A-3.

[0069] In Alt A-1, the bitmap includes values for all PRBs in the resource pool 1100, including the in-cell guard band 1130. This is illustrated in Figure 11 as an Alt A-1 line that extends across the entire resource pool 1100. Thus, based on the bitmap in Alt A-1, a UE would understand which PRBs in the resource pool 1100 are available for PSFCH.

[0070] In Alt A-2, the bitmap includes values for only the PRBs in the RB sets (e.g., RB set 1110 and RB set 1120) of the resource pool 1100. This is illustrated in Figure 11 as an Alt A-2 line that extends across the entire RB set 1110, skips the guard band 1130, and then extends across the entire RB set 1120. Thus, based on the bitmap in Alt A-2, a UE would understand which PRBs in each of the RB set 1110 and the RB set 1120 are available for PSFCH.

[0071] In Alt A-3, the bitmap includes values only for PRBs corresponding to sub-channels in the RB set of resource pool 1100 (e.g., RB set 1110 and RB set 1120). This is illustrated in Alt A-3 line extending across RB set 1110 in Figure 11 Fig. 20B as an Alt A-3 line extending across RB set 1110 until the end of sub-channel 2. As described above, in this example embodiment, sub-channel 3 is not present due to the rules described above. Thus, the Alt A-3 line skips PRBs of RB set 1110 that are not part of a defined sub-channel, and also skips guard band 1130. The Alt A-3 line then extends across the configured sub-channels of RB set 1120, but skips any remaining PRBs that are not part of a defined sub-channel of RB set 1120. Thus, based on the bitmap in Alt A-3, the UE will understand which PRBs in each of the defined sub-channels are available for PSFCH.

[0072] A second set of alternatives for the bitmap, related to the example of a bitmap for each RB set (e.g., RB set 1110 and RB set 1120) within resource pool 1100, is illustrated at the bottom of Figure 11 Fig. 20B and labeled as Alt.B-1 through Alt B-2. In the example of Figure 11 Fig. 20B, Alt.B-1 and Alt B-2 are shown for the first RB set 1110, but it should be understood that there would also be a bitmap corresponding to the second RB set 1120.

[0073] In Alt B-1, the bitmap includes all PRBs in RB set 1110 of resource pool 1100. This is illustrated in Alt B-1 line extending across the entire RB set 1110 in Figure 11 Fig. 20B. Thus, based on the bitmap in Alt B-1, the UE will understand which PRBs in RB set 1110 are available for PSFCH. The corresponding bitmap (not shown) for RB set 1120 will provide PSFCH information for RB set 1120.

[0074] In Alt B-2, the bitmap includes all PRBs corresponding to sub-channels in RB set 1110. This is illustrated in Alt B-2 line extending across RB set 1110 until the end of sub-channel 2 in ​ Fig. 20B. As described above, in this example embodiment, sub-channel 3 is not present due to the rules described above. Thus, the Alt B-2 line does not cover the remaining PRBs of RB set 1110. Thus, based on the bitmap in Alt B-2, the UE will understand which PRBs in the defined sub-channels of RB set 1110 are available for PSFCH. The corresponding bitmap (not shown) for RB set 1120 will provide PSFCH information for RB set 1120.

[0075] It should be understood that the above provides PSFCH examples for the third alternative of the third option for mapping between sub-channels and PRBs in a resource pool for sidelink communication in unlicensed spectrum. However, the principles for providing PSFCH information described by way of example can also apply to the other alternatives of the third option and the first two options described above. Thus, the PSFCH configuration information can apply to all examples provided herein.

[0076] Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments described above can be implemented in any suitable software configuration or hardware configuration, or a combination thereof. Exemplary hardware platforms for implementing the exemplary embodiments can include, for example, Intel x86-based platforms with compatible operating systems, Windows OS, Mac platforms and MAC OS, mobile devices with operating systems such as iOS, Android, and the like. Exemplary embodiments of the above-described methods can be embodied as a program containing lines of code stored on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which when compiled can be executed on a processor or microprocessor.

[0077] While the present application describes various embodiments each having different features in various combinations, those skilled in the art will understand that any feature of one embodiment can be combined with features of another embodiment in any manner not specifically otherwise recited, either functionally or logically, that is not inconsistent with the operation or stated function of the device or disclosed embodiments.

[0078] It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled in a way to minimize risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use of data, and every effort should be made to secure user's consent to the manner in which their personal information data is collected, used, and shared.

[0079] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover modifications and variations of this disclosure provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method performed by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: receiving configuration information for a resource pool for a sidelink connection in an unlicensed band, wherein the resource pool comprises a plurality of contiguous physical resource blocks (PRBs), a first set of resource blocks (RBs) comprising a first subset of the PRBs, a second set of RBs comprising a second subset of the PRBs, and a guard band comprising a third subset of the PRBs; and transmitting a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH) transmission or a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) transmission using the resource pool.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the configuration information further comprises a plurality of sub-channels, wherein a mapping of the sub-channels of the resource pool starts at a first PRB of the resource pool and continues in order within the resource pool according to a configured size of each of the sub-channels.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein when the PSCCH transmission is scheduled to start from a set of lowest frequency PRBs in one of the sub-channels and at least one of the lowest frequency PRBs comprises a PRB from the third subset, the PSCCH transmission is deferred until a next set of RBs.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the PSSCH transmission is scheduled to start from a first lowest frequency PRB in a set of the lowest frequency PRBs in one of the sub-channels that is not from the third subset.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein when the PSCCH transmission is scheduled to include a set of highest frequency PRBs in one of the sub-channels and at least one of the highest frequency PRBs comprises a PRB from the third subset, the PSCCH transmission is stopped before the at least one of the highest frequency PRBs.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein when the PSCCH transmission is scheduled to include a set of PRBs in one of the sub-channels and at least one of the PRBs comprises a PRB from the third subset, the PSCCH transmission is interrupted at a first of the at least one of the PRBs and continues after a last of the at least one of the PRBs.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the PSSCH transmission is scheduled for the first of the at least one of the PRBs to the last of the at least one of the PRBs.

8. The method of claim 2, wherein when the configured size of the sub-channels results in remaining PRBs that are not in any of the sub-channels, the remaining PRBs are not used for PSCCH transmissions or PSSCH transmissions.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the configuration information further comprises a plurality of sub-channels, wherein a mapping of sub-channels of the first RB set starts at a first PRB of the first RB set and continues in order within the first RB set according to a configuration size of each of the sub-channels, wherein a mapping of sub-channels of the second RB set starts at a first PRB of the second RB set and continues in order within the second RB set according to a configuration size of each of the sub-channels, wherein each of the first RB set and the second RB set includes remaining PRBs that are not included in any of the sub-channels.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein a highest frequency sub-channel of the first RB set is extended to include the remaining PRBs of the first RB set or the PRBs of the guard band.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the PSCCH transmission or the PSSCH transmission is scheduled for the remaining PRBs of the first RB set or the PSSCH transmission is scheduled for the PRBs of the guard band.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein a lowest frequency sub-channel of the second RB set is extended to include the remaining PRBs of the first RB set or the PRBs of the guard band.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the PSCCH transmission or the PSSCH transmission is scheduled for the remaining PRBs of the first RB set or the PSSCH transmission is scheduled for the PRBs of the guard band.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein the PSCCH transmission includes a configured number of PRBs, and wherein when a number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set is greater than or equal to the configured number of PRBs of the PSCCH transmission, and the number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set and a first number of PRBs of the guard band is greater than or equal to the configuration size of the sub-channels of the first RB set, an additional sub-channel of the first RB set is defined as the remaining PRBs in the first RB set and a second number of PRBs of the guard band such that a total number of PRBs in the additional sub-channel of the first RB set is equal to the configuration size of the sub-channels of the first RB set.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the PSCCH transmission includes a configured number of PRBs, and wherein when a number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set is less than the configured number of PRBs of the PSCCH transmission, the remaining PRBs of the first RB set are not used for the PSCCH transmission or PSSCH transmission.

16. The method of claim 9, wherein the PSCCH transmission includes a configured number of PRBs, and wherein when a number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set is less than the configured number of PRBs of the PSCCH transmission, the remaining PRBs of the first RB set are not used for the PSCCH transmission or PSSCH transmission. wherein the remaining PRBs of the first RB set are not used for the PSCCH transmission or PSSCH transmission when the number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set is greater than or equal to the configured number of PRBs of the PSCCH transmission, and the number of remaining PRBs in the first RB set and the number of PRBs of the guard band are less than the configured size of the subchannel of the first RB set.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the configuration information further comprises physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH) information, wherein the PSFCH information comprises one or more bitmaps indicating locations of PSFCH resources in the resource pool.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more bitmaps comprise a single bitmap applicable to all PRBs in the resource pool.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more bitmaps comprise a single bitmap applicable to all PRBs in the first RB set and the second RB set of the resource pool.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the configuration information further comprises one or more subchannels of the first RB set and one or more subchannels of the second RB set, wherein the one or more bitmaps comprise a single bitmap applicable to all PRBs in the one or more subchannels of the first RB set and the one or more subchannels of the second RB set.

21. The method of claim 17, wherein the one or more bitmaps comprise a first bitmap applicable to the PRBs in the first RB set and a second bitmap applicable to the PRBs in the second RB set.

22. The method of claim 17, wherein the configuration information further comprises one or more subchannels of the first RB set and one or more subchannels of the second RB set, wherein the one or more bitmaps comprise a first bitmap applicable to the PRBs in the one or more subchannels of the first RB set and a second bitmap applicable to the PRBs in the one or more subchannels of the second RB set.

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