UL SRS frequency hopping indication and process enhancement for positioning

Abstract

A method, system, and apparatus are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, a network node is configured to communicate with a wireless device. The network node is configured and / or comprises a radio interface and / or comprises processing circuitry configured to configure the wireless device for a sounding reference signal, SRS, hopping scheme. The scheme includes a configuration for at least one of the following: SRS frequency hopping within partial time slots, SRS frequency hopping between partial time slots, and SRS frequency hopping between time slots within continuous time slots. The network node is configured to communicate with the wireless device according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

Description

Related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application serial number 63 / 446744, filed on February 17, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to wireless communications, and more specifically, to frequency hopping of a detection reference signal (SRS). Background Technology

[0003] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has developed and is developing standards for fourth-generation (4G) (also known as Long Term Evolution (LTE)) and fifth-generation (5G) (also known as New Radio (NR)) wireless communication systems. Among other features, such systems provide broadband communication between network nodes (e.g., base stations) and mobile wireless devices (WDs), as well as communication between network nodes and between WDs. 3GPP is also developing standards for sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication networks.

[0004] 3GPP is discussing NR Positioning Release (Rel) 18, which features potential enhancements for RedCap positioning, where the maximum bandwidth for RedCap radio devices is 20 MHz in frequency range 1 (FR1) and 100 MHz in frequency range 2 (FR2). One potential approach is to introduce Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping for uplink-dependent RedCap positioning accuracy improvements.

[0005] Existing methods in NR

[0006] In existing SRS configurations, a wireless device can be configured with a repetition factor via a network. or , where R≤Ns, and Ns is the number of adjacent symbols in a time slot used for SRS transmission.

[0007] If SRS frequency hopping is not configured, each antenna port of the SRS resource in each time slot is mapped to the same set of subcarriers in the same physical resource block (PRB) set across all Ns symbols.

[0008] Figure 1A The SRS frequency hopping within the time slot is shown, where and , Figure 1B The SRS frequency hopping within the time slot is shown, where and .

[0009] If frequency hopping is configured within the SRS resources of each time slot without repetition (i.e., R=1), then according to the SRS hopping parameters... , , Each antenna port of the SRS resource in each time slot is mapped to a different set of subcarriers in each Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbol, where the same transport comb value is assumed for different subcarrier sets. In this case, for example, if... , , and , and SRS frequency hopping occurs within a single time slot, and each hop has four RBs, such as... Figure 1A As shown; if , , and ,but and SRS frequency hopping occurs within a single time slot, and each hop has 8 RBs, such as... Figure 1B As shown in the image.

[0010] If both frequency hopping and repetition are configured within the SRS resources in each time slot (Ns≥4, R≥2), then each antenna port of the SRS resources in each time slot is mapped to the same set of subcarriers within each set containing R adjacent OFDM symbols, and across... The frequency hopping of each set is based on the SRS transition parameters. , and ,in It should be possible Divisible. For example, if , , , And R=2, then and SRS frequency hopping occurs across multiple time slots, and each hop has 4 RBs and 2 symbols, such as... Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 The SRS frequency hopping between time slots is shown.

[0011] Wireless devices can be configured with Or 14 adjacent symbol aperiodic SRS resources and have in-slot frequency hopping within the bandwidth portion, wherein when frequency hopping is configured with R=1, across Each symbol uses a subband of equal size to probe the full transition bandwidth. Wireless devices can be configured with... Adjacent symbol aperiodic SRS resources and in-slot frequency hopping within the bandwidth portion, wherein when frequency hopping is configured with R≥2, crossing A set of R adjacent OFDM symbols is used to probe the full transition bandwidth using subbands of equal size. Furthermore, Ns is divisible by R. Each antenna port of the SRS resource is mapped to the same set of subcarriers within each set of the resource having R adjacent OFDM symbols.

[0012] Wireless devices can be configured Symbol-periodic or semi-persistent SRS resources with inter-slot transitions within a bandwidth portion, wherein the SRS resource occupies the same symbol position in each slot. Wireless devices can be configured... Symbol-periodic or semi-persistent SRS resources with intra-slot and inter-slot transitions within the bandwidth portion, wherein N-symbol SRS resources occupy the same symbol position in each slot. For When frequency hopping is configured with R≥2, intra-slot and inter-slot hopping is supported, and each antenna port of the SRS resource is mapped to a cross-resource segment in each time slot. A set of distinct subcarriers, each having R adjacent OFDM symbols. It is divisible by R. Each antenna port of the SRS resource is mapped to the same set of subcarriers within each set of R adjacent OFDM symbols in each time slot. For When frequency hopping is configured, inter-slot frequency hopping is supported, and each antenna port of the SRS resource is mapped to the same set of subcarriers in the R adjacent OFDM symbols of the resource in each time slot.

[0013] Regarding bandwidth, a wireless device can be configured with up to four bandwidth portions in the uplink (UL) and up to four bandwidth portions in the downlink (DL). Summary of the Invention

[0014] Some embodiments advantageously provide methods, systems, and apparatus for SRS frequency hopping.

[0015] Problems with existing methods in NR

[0016] For SRS frequency hopping within a time slot, existing solutions do not support partial SRS frequency hopping.

[0017] For inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, existing solutions do not support partial SRS frequency hopping or SRS frequency hopping across a full wider bandwidth within a continuous time slot and a cycle.

[0018] This document discloses embodiments related to SRS frequency hopping configuration and indication, as well as repeat indication, for example, as discussed below. Figure 12-14 As shown in the image. Example 1: Virtual wider bandwidth Example 2: Multiple bandwidth components Example 3: Multiple RF carrier frequencies

[0019] At least one embodiment supports resynchronization during SRS frequency hopping.

[0020] At least one embodiment involves signaling exchange between a wireless device, a network node, and an LMF to enable UL SRS frequency hopping.

[0021] At least one embodiment can be used to support SRS frequency hopping configuration and indication, as well as repeat indication. Attached Figure Description

[0022] A more complete understanding of the present embodiments and their accompanying advantages and features will be more readily obtained by referring to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0023] Figure 1A An example of SRS frequency hopping within a time slot is shown;

[0024] Figure 1B Another example of SRS frequency hopping within a time slot is shown;

[0025] Figure 2 Another example of SRS frequency hopping within a time slot is shown;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example network architecture of a communication system connected to a host computer via an intermediate network according to the principles of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating how a host computer communicates with a wireless device via a network node through at least a partial wireless connection, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for executing a client application at a wireless device, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data at a wireless device, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 7This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data from a wireless device at a host computer, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, a network node, and a wireless device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for receiving user data at a host computer, implemented in a communication system including a host computer, network nodes, and wireless devices, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example process in a network node according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of an example process in a wireless device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 11A Examples of in-slot SRS frequency hopping according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown;

[0035] Figure 11B Examples of in-slot SRS frequency hopping according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown;

[0036] Figure 12 Examples of SRS frequency hopping resource allocation within time slots according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown;

[0037] Figure 13 Examples of intra-slot plus inter-slot SRS frequency hopping resource allocation according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0038] Figure 14 Examples of intra-slot plus inter-slot SRS frequency hopping resource allocation according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0039] Figure 15 Examples of one bandwidth portion per hop according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown;

[0040] Figure 16 Examples of FrequencyInfoUL information elements according to some embodiments of this disclosure; and

[0041] Figure 17 These are example signaling procedures according to some embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Before describing the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be noted that the embodiments primarily concern combinations of apparatus components and processing steps related to SRS frequency hopping. Therefore, components are indicated where appropriate by conventional symbols in the accompanying drawings, thus illustrating only those specific details relevant to understanding the embodiments, so as not to obscure this disclosure to details that would be obvious to those skilled in the art who would benefit from the description herein. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements in the specification.

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the concepts described herein. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that, when used herein, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0044] In the embodiments described herein, the connection term "communicating with" and the like can be used to indicate electrical or data communication, which can be achieved, for example, through physical contact, induction, electromagnetic radiation, radio signaling, infrared signaling, or optical signaling. Those skilled in the art will understand that multiple components can interoperate, and modifications and variations in implementing electrical and data communication are possible.

[0045] In some embodiments described herein, the terms “coupled,” “connected,” etc., may be used herein to indicate a connection, although not necessarily a direct one, and may include wired and / or wireless connections.

[0046] As used herein, the term "network node" can refer to any type of network node included in a radio network, and may also include any of the following: base station (BS), radio base station, base transceiver station (BTS), base station controller (BSC), radio network controller (RNC), g node B (gNB), evolved node B (eNB or eNodeB), node B, multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node (e.g., MSR BS), multi-cell / multicast coordination entity (MCE), integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, relay node, donor node of control relay, radio access point (AP), transmission point, transmission node, remote radio unit (RRU), remote radio head (RRH), core network node (e.g., mobility management entity (MME), ad hoc network (SON) node, coordination node, location node, MDT node, etc.), external node (e.g., third-party node, node outside the current network), node in distributed antenna system (DAS), spectrum access system (SAS) node, element management system (EMS), etc. Network nodes may also include test equipment. The term “radio node” as used in this article can also be used to refer to wireless devices (WDs) such as wireless equipment (WDs) or radio network nodes.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-limiting terms "wireless device (WD)" or "user equipment (UE)" may be used interchangeably. A WD as used herein can be any type of wireless device capable of communicating with a network node or another WD via radio signals, such as a wireless device (WD). A WD can also be a radio communication device, a target device, a device-to-device (D2D) WD, a machine-type WD or a WD capable of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, a low-cost and / or low-complexity WD, a sensor equipped with a WD, a tablet computer, a mobile terminal, a smartphone, a laptop built-in device (LEE), a laptop installed device (LME), a USB adapter, a customer premises equipment (CPE), an Internet of Things (IoT) device, or a narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) device, etc.

[0048] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the generic term "radio network node" is used. It can be any kind of radio network node, which may include any of the following: base station, radio base station, base transceiver station, base station controller, network controller, RNC, evolved Node B (eNB), Node B, gNB, multi-cell / multicast coordination entity (MCE), IAB node, relay node, access point, radio access point, remote radio unit (RRU), remote radio head (RRH).

[0049] Note that although terms from a specific wireless system such as 3GPP LTE and / or New Radio (NR) may be used in this disclosure, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure to the aforementioned systems. Other wireless systems, including but not limited to Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMax), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), may also benefit from utilizing the concepts covered in this disclosure.

[0050] In some embodiments, a generic descriptive element of the form "one of A and B" corresponds to either A or B. In some embodiments, at least one of A and B corresponds to A, B, or AB, or one or more of A and B, or one or both of A and B. In some embodiments, at least one of A, B, and C corresponds to one or more of A, B, and C, and / or A, B, C, or combinations thereof.

[0051] It should also be noted that the functions described herein as being performed by wireless devices or network nodes can be distributed across multiple wireless devices and / or network nodes. In other words, the functions of the network nodes and wireless devices described herein are envisioned to be performed not only by a single physical device, but can actually be distributed across multiple physical devices.

[0052] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will also be understood that, unless expressly defined herein, the terms used herein shall be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0053] Some implementations provide SRS frequency hopping.

[0054] Referring again to the accompanying drawings, in which the same elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, Figure 3The diagram illustrates a communication system 10 according to an embodiment, which may support, for example, a 3GPP-type cellular network supporting standards such as LTE and / or NR (5G), including an access network 12 (e.g., a radio access network) and a core network 14. The access network 12 includes multiple network nodes 16a, 16b, 16c (collectively referred to as network nodes 16), such as NBs, eNBs, gNBs, or other types of wireless access points, each defining a corresponding coverage area 18a, 18b, 18c (collectively referred to as coverage area 18). Each network node 16a, 16b, 16c can be connected to the core network 14 via a wired or wireless connection 20. A first wireless device (WD) 22a located in coverage area 18a is configured to wirelessly connect to or be paged by a corresponding network node 16a. A second WD 22b in coverage area 18b can wirelessly connect to a corresponding network node 16b. Although multiple WDs 22a, 22b (collectively referred to as wireless devices 22) are shown in this example, the disclosed embodiments are equally applicable to situations where a single WD is in the coverage area or a single WD is connected to the corresponding network node 16. Note that although only two WDs 22 and three network nodes 16 are shown for convenience, the communication system may include more WDs 22 and network nodes 16.

[0055] Furthermore, WD 22 is envisioned to be able to communicate simultaneously and / or be configured to communicate individually with multiple network nodes 16 and various types of network nodes 16. For example, WD 22 may have dual connectivity with LTE-enabled network nodes 16 and the same or different NR-enabled network nodes 16. For example, WD 22 may communicate with an eNB for LTE / E-UTRAN and a gNB for NR / NG-RAN.

[0056] The communication system 10 itself can be connected to a host computer 24, which can be embodied in the hardware and / or software of a standalone server, a cloud-implemented server, a distributed server, or as a processing resource in a server farm. The host computer 24 can be under the ownership or control of a service provider, or can be operated by or on behalf of the service provider. Connections 26, 28 between the communication system 10 and the host computer 24 can extend directly from the core network 14 to the host computer 24, or can extend via an optional intermediate network 30. The intermediate network 30 can be one of public, private, or hosted networks, or a combination of several of them. The intermediate network 30, if any, can be a backbone network or the Internet. In some embodiments, the intermediate network 30 may include two or more subnetworks (not shown).

[0057] Overall, Figure 3The communication system establishes a connection between one of the connected WDs 22a and 22b and the host computer 24. This connection can be described as an over-the-top (OTT) connection. The host computer 24 and the connected WDs 22a and 22b are configured to transmit data and / or signaling via the OTT connection using access network 12, core network 14, any intermediate network 30, and possibly other infrastructure (not shown) as intermediaries. The OTT connection can be transparent because at least some of the participating communication devices traversed by the OTT connection are unaware of the routes for the uplink and downlink communications. For example, the network node 16 may not be informed, or may not need to be informed, of the past routes for incoming downlink communications containing data originating from the host computer 24 that will be forwarded (e.g., handed over) to the connected WD 22a. Similarly, the network node 16 does not need to know the future routes for outgoing uplink communications originating from the WD 22a toward the host computer 24.

[0058] Network node 16 is configured to include configuration unit 32, which is configured to perform one or more network node 16 functions described herein, including functions related to SRS frequency hopping. Wireless device 22 is configured to include implementation unit 34, which is configured to perform one or more wireless device 22 functions described herein, including functions related to SRS frequency hopping.

[0059] Now refer to Figure 4 This section describes an example implementation of the WD 22, network node 16, and host computer 24 discussed in the preceding paragraphs according to an embodiment. In the communication system 10, the host computer 24 includes hardware (HW) 38, which includes a communication interface 40 configured to establish and maintain wired or wireless connections with different communication devices of the communication system 10. The host computer 24 also includes processing circuitry 42, which may have storage and / or processing capabilities. Processing circuitry 42 may include a processor 44 and memory 46. Specifically, in addition to or instead of a processor (e.g., a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 42 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores adapted to execute instructions and / or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and / or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). The processor 44 can be configured to access (e.g., write and / or read) memory 46, which can include any kind of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or random access memory (RAM) and / or read-only memory (ROM) and / or optical memory and / or erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM).

[0060] Processing circuitry 42 may be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein and / or cause such methods and / or processes to be performed, for example, by host computer 24. Processor 44 corresponds to one or more processors 44 for performing the functions of host computer 24 described herein. Host computer 24 includes memory 46 configured to store data, programmed software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 48 and / or host application 50 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42, cause processor 44 and / or processing circuitry 42 to perform the processes described herein with respect to host computer 24. The instructions may be software associated with host computer 24.

[0061] Software 48 can be executed by processing circuitry 42. Software 48 includes a host application 50. Host application 50 is operable to provide services to a remote user, such as WD 22 connected via an OTT connection 52 terminating between WD 22 and host computer 24. In providing services to a remote user, host application 50 can provide user data transmitted using OTT connection 52. “User data” can be data and information described herein for implementing the functions described. In one embodiment, host computer 24 can be configured to provide control and functionality to a service provider and can be operated by or on behalf of the service provider. Processing circuitry 42 of host computer 24 can enable host computer 24 to observe, monitor, control network node 16 and / or wireless device 22, send to and / or receive from network node 16 and / or wireless device 22. The processing circuitry 42 of the host computer 24 may include a control unit 54 configured to enable the service provider to observe / monitor / control network node 16 and / or wireless device 22 / send to network node 16 and / or wireless device 22 / receive from network node 16 and / or wireless device 22.

[0062] The communication system 10 also includes a network node 16 disposed within the communication system 10 and including hardware 58, which enables it to communicate with the host computer 24 and the WD 22. Hardware 58 may include a communication interface 60 for establishing and maintaining wired or wireless connections with different communication devices of the communication system 10, and a radio interface 62 for establishing and maintaining at least a wireless connection 64 with the WD 22 located in the coverage area 18 served by the network node 16. Radio interface 62 may be configured as or may include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers. Communication interface 60 may be configured to facilitate a connection 66 with the host computer 24. Connection 66 may be direct or it may be via the core network 14 of the communication system 10 and / or via one or more intermediate networks 30 outside the communication system 10.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the hardware 58 of network node 16 further includes processing circuitry 68. Processing circuitry 68 may include a processor 70 and memory 72. Specifically, in addition to or instead of a processor (e.g., a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 68 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores adapted to execute instructions and / or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and / or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Processor 70 may be configured to access (e.g., write to and / or read from) memory 72, which may include any kind of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or random access memory (RAM) and / or read-only memory (ROM) and / or optical memory and / or erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM).

[0064] Therefore, network node 16 also has software 74 stored internally, for example in memory 72, or in external memory (e.g., a database, storage array, network storage device, etc.) accessible via an external connection of network node 16. Software 74 can be executed by processing circuitry 68. Processing circuitry 68 can be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein and / or cause such methods and / or processes to be executed, for example, by network node 16. Processor 70 corresponds to one or more processors 70 for performing the functions of network node 16 described herein. Memory 72 is configured to store data, programmed software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 74 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68, cause processor 70 and / or processing circuitry 68 to perform the processes described herein with respect to network node 16. For example, processing circuitry 68 of network node 16 may include configuration unit 32 configured to perform one or more functions of network node 16 described herein, including functions related to SRS frequency hopping.

[0065] The communication system 10 also includes the previously mentioned WD 22. The WD 22 may have hardware 80, which may include a radio interface 82 configured to establish and maintain a wireless connection 64 with network nodes 16 serving the current coverage area 18 of the WD 22. The radio interface 82 may be configured as or may include, for example, one or more RF transmitters, one or more RF receivers, and / or one or more RF transceivers.

[0066] The hardware 80 of the WD 22 also includes processing circuitry 84. Processing circuitry 84 may include a processor 86 and memory 88. Specifically, in addition to or instead of a processor (e.g., a central processing unit) and memory, processing circuitry 84 may include integrated circuits for processing and / or control, such as one or more processors and / or processor cores and / or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and / or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) adapted to execute instructions. Processor 86 may be configured to access (e.g., write to and / or read from) memory 88, which may include any kind of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as cache and / or buffer memory and / or random access memory (RAM) and / or read-only memory (ROM) and / or optical memory and / or erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM).

[0067] Therefore, WD 22 may also include software 90 stored, for example, in memory 88 at WD 22 or in external memory accessible to WD 22 (e.g., a database, storage array, network storage device, etc.). Software 90 may be executed by processing circuitry 84. Software 90 may include a client application 92. Client application 92 is operable to provide services to human or non-human users via WD 22 with the support of host computer 24. In host computer 24, a host application 50 is executing and can communicate with the executing client application 92 via an OTT connection 52 terminated between WD 22 and host computer 24. When providing services to a user, client application 92 may receive request data from host application 50 and provide user data in response to the request data. OTT connection 52 can transmit both request data and user data. Client application 92 may interact with the user to generate the user data it provides.

[0068] Processing circuitry 84 may be configured to control any methods and / or processes described herein and / or cause such methods and / or processes to be performed, for example, by WD 22. Processor 86 corresponds to one or more processors 86 for performing the functions of WD 22 described herein. WD 22 includes memory 88 configured to store data, programmed software code, and / or other information described herein. In some embodiments, software 90 and / or client application 92 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84, cause processor 86 and / or processing circuitry 84 to perform the processes described herein with respect to WD 22. For example, processing circuitry 84 of wireless device 22 may include implementation unit 34 configured to perform one or more functions of wireless device 22 described herein, including functions related to SRS frequency hopping.

[0069] In some embodiments, the internal operations of network node 16, WD 22, and host computer 24 can be as follows: Figure 4 As shown, and independently, the surrounding network topology can be Figure 3 The network topology.

[0070] exist Figure 4 In the diagram, OTT connection 52 has been abstractly depicted to illustrate communication between host computer 24 and wireless device 22 via network node 16, without explicitly referencing any intermediate devices or the precise routing of messages via those devices. The network infrastructure can determine the routing, and can be configured to hide the routing from WD 22 or the service provider operating host computer 24, or both. While OTT connection 52 is active, the network infrastructure can further make decisions, dynamically altering the routing (e.g., based on load balancing considerations or network reconfiguration).

[0071] The wireless connection 64 between WD 22 and network node 16 is based on the teachings of embodiments described throughout this disclosure. One or more of the various embodiments improve the performance of OTT services provided to WD 22 using OTT connection 52 (where wireless connection 64 may form the final segment). More precisely, the teachings of some of these embodiments can improve data rates, latency, and / or power consumption, thereby providing benefits such as reduced user wait times, relaxed file size limits, better responsiveness, and extended battery life.

[0072] In some embodiments, a measurement process may be provided for the purpose of monitoring data rates, latency, and other factors improved thereon in one or more embodiments. Optional network functions may also be available for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 between host computer 24 and WD 22 in response to changes in measurement results. The measurement process and / or network functions for reconfiguring the OTT connection 52 may be implemented in software 48 of host computer 24 or software 90 of WD 22, or both. In embodiments, sensors (not shown) may be deployed in or associated with communication devices through which the OTT connection 52 passes; the sensors may participate in the measurement process by providing values ​​of the monitored quantities exemplified above or by providing values ​​of other physical quantities from which the software 48, 90 may calculate or estimate the monitored quantities. Reconfiguration of the OTT connection 52 may include message formatting, retransmission settings, preferred routing, etc. Reconfiguration does not need to affect network node 16, and it may be unknown or imperceptible to network node 16. Some such processes and functions may be known and practiced in the art. In certain embodiments, the measurement may involve proprietary WD signaling, which facilitates the host computer 24 in measuring throughput, propagation time, latency, etc. In some embodiments, the measurement may be implemented because the software 48, 90 causes the use of OTT connection 52 to send messages, particularly empty messages or "dummy" messages, while it is monitoring propagation time, errors, etc.

[0073] Therefore, in some embodiments, the host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 configured to provide user data and a communication interface 40 configured to forward the user data to the cellular network for transmission to the WD 22. In some embodiments, the cellular network also includes a network node 16 having a radio interface 62. In some embodiments, the network node 16 is configured and / or its processing circuitry 68 is configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions to the WD 22, and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / terminating the reception of transmissions from the WD 22.

[0074] In some embodiments, host computer 24 includes processing circuitry 42 and a communication interface 40 configured to receive user data originating from transmissions from WD 22 to network node 16. In some embodiments, WD 22 is configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions to network node 16 and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / terminating reception of transmissions from network node 16, and / or WD 22 includes a radio interface 82 and / or processing circuitry 84 configured to perform the functions and / or methods described herein for preparing / initiating / maintaining / supporting / terminating transmissions to network node 16 and / or for preparing / terminating / maintaining / supporting / terminating reception of transmissions from network node 16.

[0075] although Figure 3 and 4 Various "units," such as configuration unit 32 and implementation unit 34, are shown as being within the respective processors; however, it is contemplated that these units can be implemented such that a portion of the unit is stored in a corresponding memory within the processing circuitry. In other words, these units can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software within the processing circuitry.

[0076] Figure 5 This illustrates a communication system (e.g., according to one embodiment) Figure 3 and 4 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 4 The method describes a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22. In a first step, the host computer 24 provides user data (block S100). In an optional sub-step of the first step, the host computer 24 provides the user data by executing a host application (e.g., host application 50) (block S102). In a second step, the host computer 24 initiates a transmission carrying user data to the WD 22 (block S104). In an optional third step, in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure, the network node 16 sends the user data carried in the transmission initiated by the host computer 24 to the WD 22 (block S106). In an optional fourth step, the WD 22 executes a client application (e.g., client application 92) associated with the host application 50 executed by the host computer 24 (block S108).

[0077] Figure 6 This illustrates a communication system (e.g., according to one embodiment) Figure 3The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and 4 The description includes a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22. In a first step of the method, the host computer 24 provides user data (block S110). In an optional sub-step (not shown), the host computer 24 provides the user data by executing a host application (e.g., host application 50). In a second step, the host computer 24 initiates a transmission carrying the user data to the WD 22 (block S112). According to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure, the transmission can be made via the network node 16. In an optional third step, the WD 22 receives the user data carried in the transmission (block S114).

[0078] Figure 7 This illustrates a communication system (e.g., according to one embodiment) Figure 3 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and 4 The method describes a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22. In an optional first step, WD 22 receives input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S116). In an optional sub-step of the first step, WD 22 executes a client application 92, which provides user data in response to the received input data provided by the host computer 24 (block S118). Additionally or alternatively, in an optional second step, WD 22 provides user data (block S120). In an optional sub-step of the second step, WD provides user data by executing a client application (e.g., client application 92) (block S122). When providing user data, the executed client application 92 may further consider user input received from the user. Regardless of the specific manner in which user data is provided, WD 22 may initiate the transmission of user data to the host computer 24 in an optional third sub-step (block S124). In the fourth step of the method, in accordance with the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure, host computer 24 receives user data sent from WD 22 (block S126).

[0079] Figure 8 This illustrates a communication system (e.g., according to one embodiment) Figure 3 The flowchart illustrates an example method implemented in a communication system. The communication system may include a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22, which may be referenced... Figure 3 and 4The description includes a host computer 24, a network node 16, and a WD 22. In an optional first step of the method, network node 16 receives user data from WD 22, according to the teachings of the embodiments described throughout this disclosure (block S128). In an optional second step, network node 16 initiates a transmission of the received user data to host computer 24 (block S130). In a third step, host computer 24 receives the user data carried in the transmission initiated by network node 16 (block S132).

[0080] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example process in network node 16 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more units of network node 16, such as one or more of processing circuitry 68 (including configuration unit 32), processor 70, radio interface 62, and / or communication interface 60. Network node 16 is configured to: configure a wireless device for a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme including configurations for at least one of: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots (block S134). Network node 16 is configured to: communicate with the wireless device according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme (block S136).

[0081] In at least one embodiment, the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a configuration for a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each of the plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

[0082] In at least one embodiment, the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode based on a frequency band configuration, which is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

[0083] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of example processes in wireless device 22 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. One or more blocks described herein can be performed by one or more units of wireless device 22, such as one or more of processing circuitry 84 (including implementation unit 34), processor 86, radio interface 82, and / or communication interface 60. Wireless device 22 is configured to receive a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme including configurations for at least one of: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots (block S138). Wireless device 22 is configured to communicate with network nodes according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme (block S140).

[0084] In at least one embodiment, the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a configuration for a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each of the plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

[0085] In at least one embodiment, the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode based on a frequency band configuration, which is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

[0086] The general process flow of the arrangements of this disclosure has been described, and examples of hardware and software arrangements for implementing the processes and functions of this disclosure have been provided. The following sections provide details and examples of arrangements for SRS frequency hopping. The functions of one or more wireless devices 22 described below can be executed by one or more of processing circuitry 84, processor 86, implementation unit 34, etc. The functions of one or more network nodes 16 described below can be executed by one or more of processing circuitry 68, processor 70, configuration unit 32, etc.

[0087] As a non-limiting example, the time-frequency resource configuration for SRS frequency hopping can be a configuration from network node 16 to wireless device 22, an instruction from network node 16 to the location server, an instruction from the location server to network node 16, and a configuration from the location server to wireless device 22.

[0088] A virtual bandwidth (or a portion of a virtual bandwidth)

[0089] SRS frequency hopping within time slots

[0090] In some embodiments, information related to time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping is associated with virtual bandwidth. The starting index of resource blocks (RBs) in this virtual bandwidth is the same as the starting index of a given bandwidth portion (e.g., initial bandwidth portion, active bandwidth portion, current bandwidth portion, or the bandwidth portion indicated for this SRS configuration). For example, in Figure 11A and 11B (These examples illustrate SRS frequency hopping resource allocation within a time slot) where the virtual bandwidth is 273 RBs.

[0091] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with a list of RB counts, or with information associated with that list of RB counts. Each RB count in the list indicates the number of RBs for partially overlapping frequencies in two adjacent transitions; the first count indicates the number of RBs for partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 0 and 1, the second count indicates the number of RBs for partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 1 and 2, and so on. For example, in Figure 11A In the example, the list is (7, 7, 7, 6, 6).

[0092] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with an overlap factor. This overlap factor indicates the number of redundancies (RBs) in the partially overlapping frequencies between two adjacent transitions, such as... Figure 11B As shown. Additionally, if a portion of the subcarrier location of a hop is outside the given bandwidth, then only the resources of that hop that are within the bandwidth can be transmitted, such as... Figure 11B As shown in Solution 1. In at least one embodiment, if the partial subcarrier position of a jump is not within a given bandwidth, the frequency position of the jump is shifted to adapt to the bandwidth, as shown in Solution 1. Figure 11B As shown in Solution 2.

[0093] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the bandwidth of a transition. Each transition in a complete SRS frequency hopping process shares a common bandwidth. For example, in Figure 11A and 11B In this context, the bandwidth of a single transition is 51 RBs.

[0094] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the time interval between two adjacent transitions. Any two adjacent transitions within the same time slot share a common time interval. For example, in... Figure 11A and 11B In this context, the time interval between two adjacent transitions is one OFDM symbol.

[0095] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the number of OFDM symbols for each hop (i.e., repetition number #1). Each hop in a complete SRS frequency hopping cycle has a common number of OFDM symbols. For example, in Figure 11A and 11B In this context, the number of OFDM symbols in a single transition is 1.

[0096] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with a starting offset equal to the total number of symbols in a time slot minus the index of the starting symbol of the first hop in the same time slot. For example, in Figure 11A and 11B In this case, the starting offset value is 14-3=11. In another embodiment, the starting offset is equal to the index of the starting symbol of the first transition in a time slot.

[0097] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be correlated with the number of hops in a complete SRS frequency hopping process. For example, in Figure 11A and 11B In the middle, the number of transitions is 6.

[0098] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the number of symbols (e.g., it can be defined or determined by the number of symbols), the number of symbols being equal to the total number of symbols used for SRS transmission in a complete SRS frequency hopping plus the total number of symbols used for the aforementioned time interval. For example, in Figure 11A and 11B In this context, the number of symbols in a complete SRS frequency hopping is 11.

[0099] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with a period, which is the difference between the start times of two adjacent complete SRS frequency hopping cycles.

[0100] Information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the repetition count #2, which indicates the number of consecutive complete SRS frequency hoppings in one cycle. For example, in Figure 12 (This illustrates an example of SRS frequency hopping resource allocation within a time slot) In this example, repetition number #2 equals 2. In at least one embodiment, the starting offset is the same in each complete SRS frequency hopping, as shown below. Figure 12 As shown in the image.

[0101] In at least one embodiment, a partially overlapped SRS hopping configuration is implemented via a virtual bandwidth, an overlap offset, a time interval, and existing parameter configurations. The virtual bandwidth indicates the target bandwidth for SRS hopping, the overlap offset indicates the number of overlapping redundancies (RBs) between two adjacent transitions, and the time interval indicates the number of symbols used for RF retuning between two adjacent transitions. This solution uses fewer bits to indicate the SRS hopping mode, but if it is desired to maintain the same bandwidth, the bandwidth of the last transition may be less than the bandwidth of other transitions, or the overlap offset of the last transition may be changed. At least one embodiment uses a virtual bandwidth, an overlap offset list, a time interval, and existing parameter configurations, where the values ​​in the overlap offset list indicate the overlap offset of the transitions. The newly introduced parameters can be common parameters shared by all (location) SRS resources in a (location) SRS resource set.

[0102] Intra-slot SRS frequency hopping

[0103] In at least one embodiment, if the number of OFDM symbols per hop (i.e., the number of repetitions) is set to greater than 1, then depending on the detailed parameters, the SRS frequency hopping mode becomes (possibly) intra-slot plus inter-slot SRS frequency hopping. For example, in Figure 13 (It shows an example of SRS frequency hopping resource allocation within and between time slots) where the repetition number #3 is set to 3, and a full SRS frequency hopping covers two time slots.

[0104] In at least one embodiment, the definition of the starting offset in each relevant time slot is consistent with... Figure 13 The same as shown. In another embodiment, the definition of the starting offset of the first time slot is the same as in other embodiments described herein, while the resource allocation of the SRS in one or more subsequent time slots within the same SRS frequency hopping follows the same principle. Figure 14 Other parameter configurations shown, Figure 14 An example of SRS frequency hopping resource allocation within and between time slots is shown.

[0105] Inter-slot SRS frequency hopping

[0106] In at least one embodiment, information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping may be associated with the number of time slots for a hopping transition, and each hopping transition has the same starting offset value, which is also provided in this information.

[0107] In at least one embodiment, information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping can be associated with the number of consecutive full SRS frequency hoppings in a cycle.

[0108] Each hop changes a bandwidth portion

[0109] In some embodiments, the SRS hopping information associated with each bandwidth portion of a hop is associated with more bandwidth portions, and each bandwidth portion is associated with a starting RB index for a hop.

[0110] SRS frequency hopping information can be associated with the time intervals described in this article.

[0111] SRS frequency hopping information can be associated with the starting offset described in this paper.

[0112] SRS frequency hopping information can be associated with the number of OFDM symbols used for SRS transmission in a bandwidth section, and each bandwidth section has the same number of OFDM symbols used for SRS transmission. In at least one embodiment, a bandwidth section is associated with a number of OFDM symbols used for SRS transmission, meaning that this number can be different in each bandwidth section.

[0113] For intra-slot SRS hopping, inter-slot SRS hopping, and / or intra-slot plus inter-slot SRS hopping, the SRS hopping information can be associated with the number of consecutive complete SRS hoppings in a cycle, as described herein.

[0114] Figure 15 An example of one bandwidth segment per hop is shown.

[0115] One RF carrier frequency for each transition

[0116] In some embodiments, SRS frequency hopping information for each transition is associated with more RF carrier frequencies using one radio frequency (RF) carrier frequency, and each RF carrier frequency indicates the starting RB of a transition. At least one embodiment does not require changes to other bandwidth portion (BWP) parameters.

[0117] In the existing method, the carrier frequency used for the active BWP is configured in ServingCellConfigCommon in SIB1 as follows: - ServingCellConfig - UplinkConfig - BWP-Uplink - BWP-UplinkDedicated - SRS-config

[0118] In at least one embodiment, the FrequencyInfoUL configures the carrier for the UL, the configuration of the list of Absolute Radio Channel Number (ARFCN) frequencies (i.e., carrier values) implements the configuration of the RF carrier hopping, and other parameters in FrequencyInfoUL may not need to be changed. The first value in the list corresponds to the first hopping, the second value in the list corresponds to the second hopping, and so on.

[0119] Figure 16 These are examples of the FrequencyInfoUL information element according to some embodiments of this disclosure. - At least three methods can be used to support RF frequency hopping: - Option 1: At least one embodiment includes configuring multiple resources and hopping across resources. Each resource is then associated with an "RF frequency shift" of the original UL carrier. However, some such embodiments may not provide a way to link SRS resources to keep them consistent in the current SRS configuration. - Option 2: At least one embodiment includes configuring multiple repetitions, each instance of which is associated with an RF frequency shift. However, in some such embodiments, SRS pos may not support repetition. - Option 3: At least one embodiment includes specifying additional staggering patterns, which can be implemented, for example, in the following ways: - Configure SRS (high comb value with repeat comb offset) using partial interleaving or - Configure SRS with a low comb value (e.g., comb 1) and spacing symbol, depending on the capabilities of the wireless device 22. However, some such implementations may present challenges in making transitions within a time slot, unless every transition is one symbol. However, given the use cases where InF has good coverage, this may be sufficient. - Note that in some cases, the embodiments associated with option 2 may be preferred. - Additionally, it may be preferable to place the complete transition sequence in a single time slot to avoid consuming UL resources.

[0120] Frequency hopping mode including resynchronization time of wireless device 22

[0121] In at least one embodiment, the frequency hopping mode can be configured in different ways for the RedCap wireless device 22, which operates in frequency division duplex (FDD) bands and time division duplex (TDD) bands or in half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD) mode in the FDD band.

[0122] For the FDD band and RedCap radio device 22 operating in full-duplex mode, while transmitting different frequency hopping signals in the UL, radio device 22 can monitor the DL synchronization signal, and both PLLs are synchronized to the DL synchronization signal (e.g., the SSB signal). Therefore, RedCap radio device 22 can be equipped with two phase-locked loops (PLLs), one mixer input for downlink reception and one mixer input for uplink transmission. In this way, the frequency hopping mode of RedCap radio device 22 can be configured without the additional time interval required for RedCap radio device 22 to track the DL synchronization signal.

[0123] For the TDD band, in at least one embodiment, the RedCap radio device 22 may be equipped with only one PLL, which is shared by both the DL and UL. When the radio device 22 is configured to transmit in multiple time slots spanning the DL time slot according to a TDD mode, the RedCap radio device 22 may need to track the DL synchronization signal, so the PLL will lock to the network node 16 timing, and the radio device 22 can successfully tune its UL PLL to different frequencies for frequency hopping. However, the radio device 22 needs to be tuned to the frequency where the SSB signal is transmitted, and the radio device 22 needs the time interval between frequency hopping for this purpose. To shorten the hopping duration, the BS may also configure the radio device 22 with CSI-RS, and the same RB range is configured for UL SRS transmission for frequency hopping.

[0124] In at least one embodiment, the RedCap radio device 22 operating in the FDD band with HD-FDD capability includes the same solution described above for the TDD band. For example, if the hopping duration spans multiple time slots, and the RedCap radio device 22 operating in HD-FDD mode needs to track DL timing, the RedCap radio device 22 is allowed to perform this operation by allocating time intervals between two frequency hoppings. Such time interval configuration can depend on the hopping duration, how many SSB opportunities the radio device 22 needs to resynchronize, and the time associated with retuning to the SSB frequency and returning to another frequency hopping opportunity. In at least one embodiment, for a particular frequency hopping that the RedCap radio device 22 needs to resynchronize, the Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS) can be transmitted within the same RB range. This then reduces the hopping duration, but at the cost of more network resources (e.g., as part of network node 16).

[0125] Signaling and Procedures

[0126] Figure 17 These are example signaling procedures according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0127] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, example methods implemented in network node 16 and / or wireless device 22 (note that frequency hopping (FH) here may be replaced by a portion of SRS FH): one or more blocks described herein may be performed by one or more units of network node 16 and / or wireless device 22, for example by one or more of processing circuitry 68 (including configuration unit 32 and / or implementation unit 34).

[0128] In at least one embodiment, network node 16 provides a list of supported FH configurations to which network node 16 can perform measurements (block S200). This may include measurements of UL-SRS FH configurations that network node 16 can perform: Measurements when the SRS is configured with frequency hopping and in-slot measurements; Measurements when the SRS is configured with frequency hopping and inter-slot measurements; Measurements when SRS is configured for time slot level repetitive frequency hopping; Measurements are taken when the SRS is configured to hop frequency after a specific period; Measurements when the SRS is configured to hop frequency across multiple BWPs; Measurements when the SRS is configured to hop frequency over a wider portion of the virtual bandwidth; Measurements when the SRS is configured to hop frequencies across multiple RF carrier frequencies; and Measurements when the SRS is configured to hop frequency in a specific frequency band (e.g., FDD band, TDD band).

[0129] In at least one embodiment, wireless device 22 provides FH capability to support UL-SRS FH mode. Wireless device 22 may provide support to network node 16 via Radio Resource Control (RRC) (block S202) and optionally via the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) to the Positioning Management Function (LMF) (block S204). Alternatively, wireless device 22 may include a full, detailed capability report to network node 16, but only a subset to the LMF, indicating that wireless device 22 is capable of FH, but not indicating which type of FH. These capabilities include, for example: UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH within a time slot; UL-SRS transmission is performed using time-slot FH; UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH with time slot level repetition. UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH after a specific period; UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH on multiple BWPs; UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH on a wider portion of the virtual bandwidth. UL-SRS transmission using FH on multiple RF carrier frequencies; and UL-SRS transmission is performed using FH on specific frequency bands (TDD, FDD, HD-FDD).

[0130] In at least one embodiment, the LMF provides network node 16 with a suggestion to configure UL-SRS using FH (block S206), and the suggestion for specific characteristics may be based on: The current positioning accuracy of wireless device 22 (if the currently configured FH mode does not produce good accuracy, the LMF may decide to change the FH mode). Historical information, such as the FH pattern applied by another wireless device 22 in the same / neighboring area or cell / beam, and if this provides better results, the LMF can recommend such information to network node 16.

[0131] Network node 16 makes the final decision (box S208) and determines the UL-SRS with FH based on the following: Recommendations from LMF The capabilities of wireless device 22, and / or Channel conditions (whether there is fast fading or slow fading).

[0132] If multiple fast fadings occur in a specific frequency region, network node 16 decides to execute FH within a time slot (within the same time slot); otherwise, for slow fading, it configures FH between time slots or after a specific period.

[0133] As those skilled in the art will understand, the concepts described herein can be embodied as a method, a data processing system, a computer program product, and / or a computer storage medium storing an executable computer program. Therefore, the concepts described herein can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects, collectively referred to herein as a “circuit” or a “module.” Any process, step, action, and / or function described herein can be performed by and / or associated with a corresponding module, which can be implemented in software and / or firmware and / or hardware. Furthermore, this disclosure can take the form of a computer program product on a tangible computer-readable storage medium having computer program code embodied in that medium that is executable by a computer. Any suitable tangible computer-readable medium can be used, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, electronic storage devices, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

[0134] This document describes several embodiments with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, systems, and computer program products. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer (thus creating a special-purpose computer), a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to create a machine such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in the blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams.

[0135] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to operate in a particular manner such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of instruction means including the implementation of the functions / actions specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0136] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram boxes.

[0137] It will be understood that the functions / actions mentioned in the boxes may not occur in the order shown in the operation diagram. For example, two boxes shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these boxes may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions / actions involved. Although some diagrams include arrows on the communication path to indicate the main direction of communication, it should be understood that communication may occur in the opposite direction to the arrows shown.

[0138] Computer program code used to perform operations that implement the concepts described in this article can be written in an object-oriented programming language (such as Python, Java). The code can be written in a language such as C or C++. However, the computer program code used to perform the operations of this disclosure can also be written in a conventional procedural programming language (such as the "C" programming language). The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer. In the latter case, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computer (e.g., using an Internet service provider via the Internet).

[0139] In conjunction with the foregoing description and accompanying drawings, numerous different embodiments have been disclosed herein. It will be understood that a verbatim description and illustration of every combination and sub-combination of these embodiments would be undue repetition and cause confusion. Therefore, all embodiments can be combined in any manner and / or combination, and this specification (including the accompanying drawings) is to be construed as a complete written description of all combinations and sub-combinations constituting the embodiments described herein, as well as the ways and processes of producing and using these embodiments, and will support the claims for any such combinations or sub-combinations.

[0140] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein are not limited to those specifically shown and described above. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated above, it should be noted that not all drawings are to scale. Various modifications and variations can be made based on the above teachings. The embodiments listed below are included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0141] Example A1. A network node configured to communicate with a wireless device (WD), the network node being configured to and / or include a radio interface and / or include processing circuitry, the processing circuitry being configured to: The wireless device is configured for a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme including configurations for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; and The device communicates with the wireless device according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

[0142] Example A2. The network node according to Example A1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping.

[0143] Example A3. The network node according to Example A1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, the hopping mode being based on a frequency band configuration, the frequency band configuration being at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

[0144] Example B1. A method implemented in a network node, the method comprising: A wireless device is configured for a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme including configurations for at least one of: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; and The device communicates with the wireless device according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

[0145] Example B2. The method according to Example B1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping.

[0146] Example B3. The method according to Example B1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, the hopping mode being based on a frequency band configuration, the frequency band configuration being at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

[0147] Example C1. A wireless device (WD) configured to communicate with a network node, the WD being configured and / or including a radio interface and / or processing circuitry, the processing circuitry being configured to: A received sounding reference signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme comprising configurations for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; and The network node communicates according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

[0148] Example C2. The WD according to Example C1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

[0149] Example C3. The WD according to Example C1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, the hopping mode being based on a frequency band configuration, the frequency band configuration being at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

[0150] Example D1. A method implemented in a wireless device (WD), the method comprising: A received sounding reference signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme comprising configurations for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; and It communicates with network nodes according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

[0151] Example D2. The method according to Example D1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of a radio frequency (RF) carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping.

[0152] Example D3. According to the method described in Example D1, wherein the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, the hopping mode being based on a frequency band configuration, the frequency band configuration being at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex FDD (HD-FDD).

Claims

1. A network node configured to communicate with a user equipment (UE), the network node comprising: Radio interface; as well as The processing circuit is configured as follows: The UE is configured for a Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme including an SRS configuration for at least one of the following: SRS frequency hopping in some time slots SRS frequency hopping between partial time slots, and Inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; as well as The system communicates with the UE according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

2. The network node according to claim 1, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of one RF carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

3. The network node according to claim 1, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, which is based on a frequency band configuration, and the frequency band configuration is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex (FDD), i.e., HD-FDD.

4. The network node according to claim 1, wherein, The SRS frequency hopping scheme is configured based on its association with virtual bandwidth or a portion of virtual bandwidth.

5. The network node according to claim 4, wherein, The starting index of the virtual bandwidth or the resource block RB in the virtual bandwidth portion is the same as the starting index of the given bandwidth portion.

6. The network node according to claim 5, wherein, The given bandwidth portion is: Initial bandwidth portion, Regarding the active bandwidth, Current bandwidth portion, or The indicated bandwidth portion used for the SRS configuration.

7. The network node according to claim 1, wherein, The SRS configuration is based on information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping.

8. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information related to time-frequency resources includes: Information associated with the list of RB counts, where each RB count in the list indicates the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies in two adjacent transitions, the first count indicating the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 0 and 1, and the second count indicating the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 1 and 2.

9. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information related to time-frequency resources includes information associated with the overlap factor.

10. The network node according to claim 9, wherein, The overlap factor indicates the number of RBs in the partially overlapping frequencies of two adjacent transitions.

11. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the bandwidth of a hop, and each hop in a complete SRS frequency hopping has a common bandwidth.

12. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the time interval between two adjacent transitions.

13. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the number of OFDM symbols for each transition.

14. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with a starting offset value, which is equal to the total number of symbols in a time slot minus the index of the starting symbol of the first transition in the same time slot.

15. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information stated.

16. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the number of hopping transitions in a complete SRS frequency hopping cycle.

17. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the number of symbols, which is equal to the total number of symbols used for SRS transmission in a full SRS frequency hopping plus the total number of symbols used for the time interval.

18. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with the period of the difference between the start times of two adjacent complete SRS frequency hopping cycles.

19. The network node according to claim 7, wherein, The information is associated with repetition number #2, which indicates the number of consecutive complete SRS frequency hoppings in one cycle.

20. A method implemented in a network node, the method comprising: The wireless device is configured for a SRS frequency hopping scheme for detecting reference signals, the scheme including configurations for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; as well as The device communicates with the wireless device according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of one RF carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

22. The method according to claim 20, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, which is based on a frequency band configuration, and the frequency band configuration is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex (FDD), i.e., HD-FDD.

23. A user equipment (UE) configured to communicate with a network node, the UE comprising: Radio interface; as well as The processing circuit is configured as follows: A receive detection reference signal (SRS) frequency hopping scheme, the scheme comprising an SRS configuration for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; as well as The network node communicates according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

24. The UE according to claim 23, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of one RF carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

25. The UE according to claim 23, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, which is based on a frequency band configuration, and the frequency band configuration is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex (FDD), i.e., HD-FDD.

26. The UE according to claim 23, wherein, The SRS frequency hopping scheme is configured based on its association with virtual bandwidth or a portion of virtual bandwidth.

27. The UE according to claim 26, wherein, The starting index of the virtual bandwidth or the resource block RB in the virtual bandwidth portion is the same as the starting index of the given bandwidth portion.

28. The UE according to claim 27, wherein, The given bandwidth portion is: Initial bandwidth portion, Regarding the active bandwidth, Current bandwidth portion, or The indicated bandwidth portion used for the SRS configuration.

29. The UE according to claim 23, wherein, The SRS configuration is based on information related to the time-frequency resources used for SRS frequency hopping.

30. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information related to time-frequency resources includes: Information associated with the list of RB counts, where each RB count in the list indicates the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies in two adjacent transitions, the first count indicating the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 0 and 1, and the second count indicating the number of RBs at partially overlapping frequencies between transitions 1 and 2.

31. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information related to time-frequency resources includes information associated with the overlap factor.

32. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The overlap factor indicates the number of RBs in the partially overlapping frequencies of two adjacent transitions.

33. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the bandwidth of a hop, and each hop in a complete SRS frequency hopping has a common bandwidth.

34. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the time interval between two adjacent transitions.

35. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the number of OFDM symbols for each transition.

36. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with a starting offset value, which is equal to the total number of symbols in a time slot minus the index of the starting symbol of the first transition in the same time slot.

37. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the number of hopping transitions in a complete SRS frequency hopping cycle.

38. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the number of symbols, which is equal to the total number of symbols used for SRS transmission in a full SRS frequency hopping plus the total number of symbols used for the time interval.

39. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with the period of the difference between the start times of two adjacent complete SRS frequency hopping cycles.

40. The UE according to claim 29, wherein, The information is associated with repetition number #2, which indicates the number of consecutive complete SRS frequency hoppings in one cycle.

41. A method implemented in a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: A frequency hopping scheme for receiving a sounding reference signal (SRS), the scheme including configurations for at least one of the following: intra-slot SRS frequency hopping, inter-slot SRS frequency hopping, and inter-slot SRS frequency hopping within consecutive time slots; as well as It communicates with network nodes according to the configured SRS frequency hopping scheme.

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes the configuration of one RF carrier for each SRS frequency hopping in a plurality of SRS frequency hopping schemes.

43. The method according to claim 41, wherein, The configured SRS frequency hopping scheme includes a hopping mode, which is based on a frequency band configuration, and the frequency band configuration is at least one of frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), and half-duplex (FDD), i.e., HD-FDD.

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