Method, device and medium for conflict management

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a conflict management method and device and a computer readable storage medium. In one method, a network node performs a first communication with a terminal device using a plurality of NBs to mitigate conflicts between the first communication and a different second communication with the terminal device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to the field of communications, and more particularly to a method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for conflict management. Background Technology

[0002] This section introduces aspects that may help in a better understanding of this disclosure. Therefore, the statements in this section should be read accordingly and should not be construed as an endorsement or denial of the contents of the prior art.

[0003] Cat-M (Cat-M) is a low-power wide-area (LPWA) technology that can support massive Internet of Things (IoT). Cat-M devices can operate on a narrower frequency band (e.g., 1.4 MHz). This allows more end devices to be served within the coverage area of ​​network nodes on the available spectrum. Furthermore, due to their lower power consumption, Cat-M devices can operate in low-power mode and achieve extended battery life. Currently, Cat-M traffic is being observed to grow in deployments by mobile network operators (MNOs). Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary is provided to present, in a simplified form, the selection of concepts further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] As mentioned above, Cat-M traffic is increasingly occurring due to its narrower bandwidth requirements and lower power consumption. Cat-M systems can share spectrum resources with LTE and New Radio (NR) systems, and Cat-M traffic can be transmitted in units of narrowband (NB) comprising six physical resource blocks (PRBs). Since one NB may not be sufficient to meet user demand, multiple NBs can be used for Cat-M traffic. However, expansion from one NB to multiple NBs can lead to resource conflicts between Cat-M systems and LTE and NR systems.

[0006] In order to overcome or mitigate at least one of the above-mentioned or other problems, or to provide a useful solution, embodiments of this disclosure propose communication methods, communication devices, and storage media.

[0007] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a method for a network node is provided. In this method, the network node uses multiple NBs to perform first communication with a terminal device to mitigate conflicts between the first communication and different second communications with the terminal device.

[0008] In one embodiment, network nodes can allocate resources for the first communication across multiple NBs to mitigate conflicts between the first and second communications.

[0009] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first radio interface technology (RIT), and the second communication may be performed using a different second RIT.

[0010] In an embodiment, a network node may allocate at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for first communication utilizing a first RIT. The allocated at least one NB may be separate from at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for a core set associated with a second RIT, and the second communication is performed on at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for the core set.

[0011] In an embodiment, the first communication may include: transmission of system information SI, transmission of system information block SIB, and transmission in the common search space (CSS) of the physical downlink control channel (MPDCCH) for machine type communication (MTC).

[0012] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of NBs includes a plurality of resource blocks, and the order in which resource blocks in at least one NB are allocated for first communication using a first RIT is the reverse of the order in which resource blocks in at least one NB in ​​the plurality of NBs are allocated for core sets associated with a second RIT.

[0013] In an embodiment, the first communication includes the transmission of system information SI, and an index of the NB is allocated for the transmission of SI to reduce the loss of resources for the second communication.

[0014] In an embodiment, the first communication may include transmissions in the CSS that can be used in the MPDCCH. A network node may allocate consecutive NBs across multiple NBs for transmissions in the CSS.

[0015] In an embodiment, consecutive NBs can be allocated for transmissions in the Type 2 Common Search Space (CSS2). The second communication may include: transmission of System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1); transmission of System Information (SI); transmission in the Type 1 Common Search Space (CSS1) for MPDCCH; transmission of synchronization signals; and / or transmission on the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH).

[0016] In an embodiment, the first communication may include transmissions in a user equipment (UE)-specific search space (USS) for the MPDCCH, or transmissions on a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) associated with the MPDCCH. A network node may allocate at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for transmissions in the USS for the MPDCCH, or for transmissions on the PDSCH.

[0017] In an embodiment, the at least one allocated NB may exclude: an NB used for the transmission of synchronization signals; and / or an NB used for transmissions on the PBCH. The second communication may include the transmission of synchronization signals and / or transmissions on the PBCH.

[0018] In an embodiment, the synchronization signal may include a primary synchronization signal (PSS) and / or a secondary synchronization signal (SSS).

[0019] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first RIT. The second communication may include transmissions in a core set associated with a different second RIT. At least one NB among a plurality of NBs for the core set has the lowest priority for allocating at least one NB for the first communication.

[0020] In an embodiment, the core set may include core set #0.

[0021] In an embodiment, the first RIT may include Category M (Cat-M), and the second RIT may include Long Term Evolution (LTE) or New Radio (NR).

[0022] In an embodiment, at least one NB assigned for transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or on the PDSCH can be multiplexed for: transmission of System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1); transmission of System Information SI; or transmission in the Type 1 Common Search Space (CSS1) on the MPDCCH.

[0023] In an embodiment, a network node may determine that a transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for MPDCCH will conflict with a SIB1 transmission on at least one subframe of at least one NB to be allocated. If the number of repetitions of the transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for MPDCCH is equal to or greater than a first threshold number, the network node may allocate at least one NB for the transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for MPDCCH.

[0024] In one embodiment, a network node may determine whether a USS is valid in response to the number of repetitions used for transmissions in the USS being less than a first threshold number. If the USS is valid, the network node 120 may increase the number of repetitions.

[0025] In an embodiment, a network node may increase the number of repetitions in response to the number of repetitions used for transmission on the PDSCH being less than a first threshold number.

[0026] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased to the next higher available number.

[0027] In an embodiment, a network node may discard at least one conflicting subframe in response to a number of repetitions for transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or on PDSCH being equal to or greater than a first threshold number to avoid a conflict between transmissions in the USS for MPDCCH or on PDSCH and transmissions in SIB1.

[0028] In an embodiment, a network node may allocate at least one NB for transmissions in the USS or PDSCH of the MPDCCH in response to the fact that there is no conflict between a transmission in the CSS1 of the MPDCCH or a transmission in the SI of at least one NB to be allocated.

[0029] In an embodiment, after cell establishment, SI transmission can be performed on at least one predetermined subframe and / or within a predetermined frame.

[0030] In an embodiment, at least one predetermined subframe may include consecutive subframes.

[0031] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed repeatedly on the MPDCCH.

[0032] In this embodiment, the network node can determine that the preamble is valid before the start of a repeating MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH. The network node can prevent the terminal device from selecting the preamble during the time interval after the preamble is valid and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0033] In this embodiment, the preamble can be determined to be valid on a target subframe earlier than the start subframe of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the three subframes are located between the target subframe and the start subframe.

[0034] In an embodiment, a repeating MPDCCH can be associated with a first CSS and a different second CSS.

[0035] In this embodiment, a network node can determine that both the first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS and the second preamble in a second list of preambles associated with the second CSS are valid before the start of the MPDCCH, where the first and second preambles correspond to the MPDCCH. The network node can block a preamble from one of the first and second lists of preambles during a time interval after the first and second preambles are valid and before the start of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, CSSs associated with another list in the first and second lists can be scheduled during a previous scheduling event.

[0036] In an embodiment, a network node may determine that a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with a first CSS is valid before the start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH. The network node may block preambles in the first list of preambles during a time interval after the first preamble is valid and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0037] In an embodiment, blocking can be executed in response to a time interval in which there is no Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH).

[0038] In this embodiment, the first and second communications are performed on the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH).

[0039] In an embodiment, the first communication may include the transmission of Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgment (HARQ-ACK) on the PUCCH. The network node may determine a first set of resource indexes available for the HARQ-ACK transmission from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH. The network node may allocate resource indexes for the HARQ-ACK transmission from a second set of resource indexes.

[0040] In an embodiment, resource indexes for HARQ-ACK transmissions are allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indexes allocated for HARQ-ACK transmissions on the PUCCH.

[0041] In this embodiment, a network node can allocate a resource index for HARQ-ACK transmission from a first set of resource indexes based on the following: , It can be the index of the allocated resource. It can be the number of minimum enhanced control channel element (ECCE) indices used to construct the MPDCCH, and It is the resource offset of HARQ-ACK. The value can be configured to cause a centralized distribution of the allocated resource indexes.

[0042] In an embodiment, a network node may set a threshold number in response to the number of NBs used for PUCCH being equal to or less than a second threshold number. The value is equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0043] In an embodiment, a network node may set the bitmap index of the USS associated with the HARQ-ACK transmission based on the number of NBs used for PUCCH exceeding a second threshold number. The value of .

[0044] In one embodiment, the second communication may include the transmission of a scheduling request (SR) on the PUCCH. A network node may determine a different second set of resource indexes available for the transmission of the SR from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH. The network node may then allocate resource indexes from the second set of resource indexes for the transmission of the SR.

[0045] In this embodiment, network nodes can search for available resource indexes in descending order of the resource indexes in the first set of resource indexes or the second set of resource indexes.

[0046] In an embodiment, the second communication may include further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, and The search order of a set of values ​​is configured to avoid conflicts between the transmission of HARQ-ACK and further transmissions of HARQ-ACK.

[0047] In an embodiment, The search order of a set of values ​​can be based on Set.

[0048] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a method for a terminal device is provided. In this method, the terminal device uses multiple NBs to perform first communication with network nodes to mitigate conflicts between the first communication and different second communications between the terminal device and the network nodes.

[0049] In an embodiment, resources for the first communication can be allocated across multiple NBs to mitigate conflicts between the first and second communications.

[0050] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first RIT, and the second communication may be performed using a different second RIT.

[0051] In an embodiment, at least one NB for the first communication utilizing the first RIT can be allocated among a plurality of NBs. The allocated at least one NB can be separate from at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for the core set associated with the second RIT. The second communication can be performed on at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for the core set.

[0052] In an embodiment, the first communication may include: transmission of SI, transmission of SIB, or transmission in CSS that can be used in MPDCCH.

[0053] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of NBs includes a plurality of resource blocks. The order in which resource blocks in at least one NB are allocated for first communication using a first RIT can be the reverse of the order in which resource blocks in at least one NB among the plurality of NBs are allocated for core sets associated with a second RIT.

[0054] In an embodiment, the first communication includes the transmission of SI, and the index of NB is allocated for the transmission of SI to reduce the loss of resources for the second communication.

[0055] In an embodiment, the first communication may include transmissions in a CSS that can be used in the MPDCCH, and consecutive NBs for transmissions in the CSS may be allocated among multiple NBs.

[0056] In this embodiment, consecutive NBs can be allocated for transmissions in CSS2. The second communication may include: transmissions in SIB1; transmissions in SI; transmissions in CSS1 for MPDCCH; transmissions of synchronization signals; and / or transmissions on PBCH.

[0057] In an embodiment, the first communication may include a transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH associated with the MPDCCH. At least one NB may be allocated among multiple NBs for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH.

[0058] In an embodiment, the assigned at least one NB may exclude: the transmission of synchronization signals; and / or transmissions on the PBCH. Second communication may include the transmission of synchronization signals and / or transmissions on the PBCH.

[0059] In an embodiment, the synchronization signal may include PSS and / or SSS.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first RIT, and the second communication may include transmissions in a core set associated with a different second RIT. In this embodiment, at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for the core set may have the lowest priority for the at least one NB assigned to the first communication.

[0061] In an embodiment, the core set may include core set #0.

[0062] In an embodiment, the first RIT may include category M, and the second RIT may include LTE or NR.

[0063] In an embodiment, at least one NB assigned for transmission in the USS used for MPDCCH or on the PDSCH is multiplexed for: transmission in SIB1; transmission in SI; or transmission in CSS1 associated with MPDCCH.

[0064] In an embodiment, at least one NB may be allocated in response to the following: a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH will conflict with a transmission of SIB1 on at least one subframe of at least one NB to be allocated, and the number of repetitions of the transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH is equal to or greater than a first threshold number.

[0065] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased in response to the number of repetitions used for transmission in the USS being less than a first threshold number and the USS being valid.

[0066] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased in response to the number of repetitions used for transmission on the PDSCH being less than a first threshold number.

[0067] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased to the next higher available number.

[0068] In an embodiment, in response to the number of repetitions for transmission in the USS or PDSCH for MPDCCH being equal to or greater than a first threshold number, at least one conflicting subframe may be dropped to avoid a conflict between transmission in the USS or PDSCH for MPDCCH and transmission of SIB1 on MPDCCH.

[0069] In an embodiment, in response to the fact that there is no conflict between a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH and a transmission in the CSS1 of the MPDCCH or a transmission in the SI of the MPDCCH of at least one NB to be assigned, at least one NB may be assigned for a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH.

[0070] In an embodiment, after cell establishment, SI transmission can be performed on at least one predetermined subframe and / or within a predetermined frame.

[0071] In an embodiment, at least one predetermined subframe may include consecutive subframes.

[0072] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed on a repeating MPDCCH.

[0073] In this embodiment, the preamble corresponding to the MPDCCH can be qualified before the start of the MPDCCH. The preamble selection by the terminal device can be blocked during the time interval after the preamble is qualified and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0074] In this embodiment, the preamble can be determined to be valid on a target subframe earlier than the start subframe of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the three subframes can be between the target subframe and the start subframe.

[0075] In an embodiment, MPDCCH may be associated with a first CSS and a different second CSS. In this embodiment, the first preamble in the first list of preambles associated with the first CSS and the second preamble in the second list of preambles associated with the second CSS can both be qualified before the start of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the first and second preambles correspond to the MPDCCH. During the time interval after the first and second preambles are qualified and before the start of the MPDCCH, the preamble in one of the first and second lists of preambles is blocked. During a previous scheduling event, CSSs in the first and second CSSs that are associated with the other list in the first and second lists can be scheduled.

[0076] In an embodiment, a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS is qualified before the start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH. After the first preamble is qualified and during the time interval before the start of the MPDCCH, preambles in the first list of preambles can be blocked.

[0077] In one embodiment, a block can be executed in response to a time interval in which no PRACH occurs.

[0078] In this embodiment, the first and second communications can be performed on the PUCCH.

[0079] In an embodiment, the first communication may include a transmission of Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgment (HARQ-ACK) on the PUCCH. A first set of resource indexes available for the HARQ-ACK transmission may be determined from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH, and resource indexes for the HARQ-ACK transmission may be allocated from the first set of resource indexes.

[0080] In an embodiment, resource indexes for HARQ-ACK transmissions can be allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indexes allocated for HARQ-ACK transmissions on the PUCCH.

[0081] In this embodiment, the resource index for HARQ-ACK transmission can be allocated from the first set of resource indexes according to the following: , It can be the index of the allocated resource. It can be the number of minimum Enhanced Control Channel Element (ECCE) indices used to construct the Physical Downlink Control Channel (MPDCCH), and It is the resource offset of HARQ-ACK. The value can be configured to cause a centralized distribution of the allocated resource indexes.

[0082] In an embodiment, The value can be equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0083] In an embodiment, in response to the number of NBs used for PUCCH exceeding a second threshold number, the bitmap index of the user equipment-specific search space (USS) associated with the HARQ-ACK transmission is used. The value can be set.

[0084] In an embodiment, the second communication may include the transmission of a scheduling request (SR) on the PUCCH. A different second set of resource indices that can be used for the transmission of the SR can be determined from the resource indices used for the PUCCH. Resource indices for the transmission of the SR can be allocated from the second set of resource indices.

[0085] In an embodiment, the available resource index can be searched in descending order of the resource indexes in the first set of resource indexes or the second set of resource indexes.

[0086] In an embodiment, the second communication may include further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, and The search order of a set of values ​​can be configured to avoid conflicts between the transmission of HARQ-ACK and further transmissions of HARQ-ACK.

[0087] In an embodiment, The search order of a set of values ​​can be based on Set.

[0088] In a third aspect of this disclosure, a network node is provided. The communication device includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory containing instructions executable by the processor, thereby enabling the network node to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0089] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a terminal device is provided. The terminal device includes a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory containing instructions executable by the processor, thereby enabling the terminal device to perform the method according to the second aspect.

[0090] In a fifth aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes components for performing the method according to the first or second aspect.

[0091] In a sixth aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores instructions thereon, which, when executed by at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method according to the first or second aspect.

[0092] Using this disclosure, conflicts between different communications of multiple shared NBs can be avoided, thereby improving communication efficiency, increasing UL throughput and / or DL ​​throughput, and improving resource utilization. Attached Figure Description

[0093] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings, which describe some embodiments of the disclosure in more detail, wherein the same reference numerals generally refer to the same components in the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0094] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example communication environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented.

[0095] Figure 2A This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for conflict management at a network node according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0096] Figure 2B This is a flowchart illustrating an example method of resource allocation at a network node according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0097] Figure 3A This is a diagram illustrating example mappings of NB to LTE and NR NBs for SI in a Cat-M system at a bandwidth of 15 MHz, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0098] Figure 3B This is a diagram illustrating example NB-to-LTE and NR NB mappings for SI in a Cat-M system at 10 MHz bandwidth, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0099] Figure 3C This is a diagram illustrating an example NB distribution pattern at a 15 MHz bandwidth according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0100] Figure 3D This is a diagram illustrating an example NB distribution pattern at a 20 MHz bandwidth according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 3E This is a diagram illustrating example simulation results of a proposed DL resource allocation mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example allocation of the HARQ PUCCH resource index according to some embodiments.

[0103] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example method of resource allocation according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0104] Figure 6A This is a timing diagram illustrating a RA process according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0105] Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating example simulation results of a conflict resolution mechanism proposed according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0106] Figure 6C This is a diagram illustrating an example blocking process according to some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0107] Figure 6D This is a diagram illustrating another example of a blocking process according to some other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0108] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method of conflict management at a terminal device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0109] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating a device according to some embodiments.

[0110] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating a computer-readable storage medium according to some embodiments.

[0111] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to some embodiments.

[0112] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating a UE according to some embodiments.

[0113] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating a network node according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0114] Some embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, other embodiments are included within the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein, and the disclosed subject matter should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0115] Generally, all terms used herein will be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the relevant art, unless a different meaning is clearly given and / or implied from the context of their use. Unless otherwise expressly stated, all references to elements, devices, components, parts, steps, etc., will be openly interpreted as referring to at least one instance of an element, device, component, part, step, etc. The steps of any method disclosed herein need not be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless the steps are explicitly described as following or preceding another step and / or where implied steps must follow or precede another step. Where appropriate, any feature of any embodiment disclosed herein may be applied to any other embodiment. Similarly, any advantage of any embodiment may be applied to any other embodiment, and vice versa. Other objects, features, and advantages of the included embodiments will be apparent from the following description.

[0116] References to features, advantages, or similar language throughout this specification do not imply that all features and advantages achievable through this disclosure should be present or in any single embodiment of this disclosure. Rather, the language referring to features and advantages is to be understood as meaning that a particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this disclosure. Furthermore, the features, advantages, and characteristics of this disclosure described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure can be practiced without one or more particular features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages that may not be present in all embodiments of this disclosure may be recognized in certain embodiments.

[0117] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., refer to distinct elements. Unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “an” are also intended to include the plural forms. As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “having,” “including,” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The term “based on” will be understood as “at least partially based on.” The terms “one embodiment” and “embodiment” will be understood as “at least one embodiment.” The term “another embodiment” will be understood as “at least one other embodiment.” Further explicit and implicit definitions may be included below.

[0118] As used herein, the term "terminal device" means a device intended to access services via an access network and configured to communicate via the access network. A terminal device may be able to communicate with network nodes (such as base stations) or with another terminal device by transmitting and / or receiving wireless signals. For example, a terminal device may include, but is not limited to: mobile phones, smartphones, sensor devices, instruments, vehicles, home appliances, medical devices, media players, cameras, or any type of consumer electronic device, such as, but not limited to, televisions, radios, lighting fixtures, tablet computers, laptop computers, or PCs. Terminal devices may also include portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-based, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices capable of transmitting voice and / or data via a wireless connection. In the following description, the terms "terminal device," "user equipment," and "UE" are used interchangeably.

[0119] As used herein, the term "network node" refers to a device in a communications network through which terminal devices access the network and receive traffic. Examples of network nodes include, but are not limited to, access points (APs) (e.g., radio access points) and base stations (BSs) (e.g., radio base stations, NodeBs, evolved NodeBs (eNBs), and new NR NodeBs (gNBs)).

[0120] In the context of this disclosure, a link from a network node to an end device is called a downlink (DL). A link from an end device to a network node is called an uplink (UL). A link between two end devices is called a sidelink (SL).

[0121] As mentioned above, Cat-M traffic is enabled by multiple NBs to meet user needs. However, expanding from one NB to multiple NBs may lead to resource conflicts between Cat-M traffic and other traffic.

[0122] Certain aspects of this disclosure and its embodiments may provide solutions to these or other challenges. Some embodiments of this disclosure propose a communication scheme using multiple NBs. Using the proposed scheme, network nodes use multiple NBs to perform first communication with a terminal device in a manner that mitigates conflicts between first communication and different second communications. The first and second communications may be associated with the same terminal device or may not be associated with the same terminal device.

[0123] Various conflict resolution mechanisms can be applied. For example, as will be described in detail in the following paragraphs, conflict resolution mechanisms can involve conflict resolution between the User Equipment (UE) Extended Search Space (UESS) (also referred to as MPDCCH UESS) / corresponding Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) and System Information Block 1 (SIB1)-BR, between MPDCCH UESS / corresponding PDSCH and System Information (SI), between MPDCCH UESS / corresponding PDSCH and paging, and between Type 2 Common Search Space (CSS2) (also referred to as MPDCCH CSS2) and Message2 (Msg2) in DL; conflict avoidance on the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) in UL; and so on.

[0124] The proposed scheme allows communication to be performed using multiple NBs by considering conflict avoidance. Therefore, conflicts between different communications shared by multiple NBs can be avoided, thereby improving communication efficiency. Furthermore, UL throughput and / or DL ​​throughput can be increased, and resource utilization can be improved.

[0125] The following will describe some example implementations with reference to the attached figures.

[0126] Figure 1 An example communication environment 100 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is shown.

[0127] like Figure 1 As shown, environment 100 includes a first terminal device 110, a second terminal device 120, and a network node 130. In this example, as shown, both the first terminal device 110 and the second terminal device 120 are located within the coverage area 135 of the network node 130, and therefore can communicate with each other via the network node 130. The first terminal device 110 and the second terminal device 120 can also communicate directly with each other wirelessly. Communication in communication environment 100 can be implemented according to any suitable communication protocol and technology.

[0128] It should be understood that Figure 1 The number of devices is described for illustrative purposes only and does not imply any limitation. The communication environment 100 may include any suitable number of terminal devices for implementing embodiments of this disclosure.

[0129] Network node 130 can communicate with first terminal device 110 and second terminal device 120 through multiple NBs in Cat-M, LTE, and NR systems. In various embodiments, network node 130 performs first communication with first terminal device 110 or second terminal device 120 using multiple NBs, thereby mitigating conflicts with second communication with different devices.

[0130] Figure 2A An example method 200 for conflict management according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Method 200 can be implemented at network node 130. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 The angular description method of network node 130 in 200.

[0131] At box 210, network node 120 uses multiple NBs to perform first communication with the terminal device to mitigate conflicts between the first communication and different second communication with the terminal device.

[0132] Regarding DL / UL resource allocation and conflict resolution, various mechanisms can be used to mitigate conflicts. The following describes some implementation examples using three use cases as examples.

[0133] Example Use Case 1: DL Resource Allocation In DL, the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), MPDCCH, and PDSCH in a Cat-M system can share the same NB used for both LTE and NR transmissions. In some embodiments, a DL resource allocation mechanism can be used to avoid conflicts between various DL transmissions, such as those related to synchronization signals (e.g., Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) and Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS)), SI, System Information Block (SIB), MPDCCH, and / or PDSCH.

[0134] The following will refer to Figures 2B to 4 Some embodiments in this regard are discussed.

[0135] Figure 2B An example method 230 for resource allocation according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Method 230 can be implemented at network node 130. For the purposes of discussion, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 The angular description method of network node 130 in the 230.

[0136] At block 240, network node 120 allocates resources for the first communication across multiple NBs to mitigate conflicts between the first and second communications. Resources may include resources in both the time and frequency domains. In some embodiments, the first and second communications may be DL communications. These two communications may utilize different Radio Interface Technologies (RITs). For example, network node 130 may perform the first communication utilizing a first RIT (such as Cat-M) and the second communication utilizing a different second RIT (such as LTE or NR). Therefore, conflicts between communications using different RITs can be mitigated.

[0137] In some embodiments, in an instance where a first communication using a first RIT and a second communication using a second RIT share a plurality of NBs, network node 120 may allocate at least one NB from the plurality of NBs for the first communication, such that the allocated NB is separate from at least one NB from the plurality of NBs for the second communication.

[0138] In some embodiments, the second communication may include communication performed within a core set occupying at least one NB. The core set may occupy multiple PRBs in the frequency domain and multiple Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) symbols in the time domain. In an embodiment, the core set may include core set #0. As an example, in an Extended Search Space (ESS) instance, core set #0 may occupy 48 PRBs in the NR from PRB index 0 to PRB index 47. In this way, first communication utilizing a first RIT (such as Cat-M) can avoid interfering with the core set associated with the second RIT, thereby reducing the impact on communication utilizing the second RIT (such as LTE or NR). Therefore, the overall reliability of communication utilizing the second RIT can be improved.

[0139] In some embodiments, the first communication subject to collision management may include transmissions of the SI, transmissions of the SIB, and / or transmissions available in the common search space (CSS) of the MPDCCH. In an example, the SI may be allocated multiple resource blocks (RBs), such as 6 PRBs (e.g., 1 full NB). The location of the SIB (such as SIB1) may be related to the cell identifier (ID) and DL bandwidth.

[0140] In some embodiments, the NBs among the plurality of NBs may include a plurality of resource blocks (RBs), and the order in which resource blocks are searched for in at least one NB allocated for first communication utilizing a first RIT may be the reverse of the order in which RBs are allocated among the plurality of NBs for at least one NB in ​​a core set associated with a second RIT. In this manner, NBs for first and second communication can be allocated from the relative boundaries of the frequency range formed by the plurality of NBs, thereby further reducing the probability of collisions.

[0141] In some embodiments, in instances where the first communication includes a transmission of SI (or "SI transmission"), an index of the NB is allocated for the SI transmission to reduce resource waste for the second communication. In an example, in an embodiment where SI is used for a Cat-M system, the index of the NB allocated for the SI transmission could be the second-highest index of multiple NBs, such as... Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown. In this way, in instances where Cat-M NBs coexist with LTE / NR, the LTE / NR downlink characteristics can be taken into account, and thus the conflict between Cat-M and LTE / NR systems can be further mitigated, and the impact on LTE / NR can be further reduced.

[0142] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Example mappings of NB to LTE and NR NBs for SI in a Cat-M system at 15 MHz and 10 MHz bandwidths, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, are shown.

[0143] In such Figure 3A As shown in the 15 MHz bandwidth diagram, if the second-highest index #10 (15 MHz) or #14 (20 MHz) of a Resource Block Group (RBG) is allocated for SI in Cat-M (“CAT” 302 or “CAT” 304), then SI transmissions may only affect one NB index #8 or NB index #11 of the RBG in NR 306 or NR 308, thus further reducing the impact on the NR system. NRRBGs can include different numbers of RBs in different systems. A similar scenario occurs at 20 MHz bandwidth, such as... Figure 3B As shown.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first communication may include a transmission in a CSS that can be used in the MPDCCH. In these embodiments, network node 130 may allocate consecutive NBs among a plurality of NBs for transmission in the CSS. The CSS may include a Type 0 common search space (CSS0), a Type 1 common search space (CSS1), and / or a Type 2 common search space (CSS2).

[0145] In embodiments where the first communication includes transmissions available in CSS2 (or "MPDCCH CSS2") for MPDCCH, the second communication may include transmissions of SIB1, SI, CSS1 (or "MPDCCH CSS1") for MPDCCH, transmissions of synchronization signals such as PSS and SSS, and / or transmissions on PBCH. Both the first and second communications can be performed within the Cat-M system. This reduces intra-system collisions.

[0146] In some embodiments, the first communication may include a transmission in a UE-specific search space (USS) for the MPDCCH (such as a UE extended search space (UESS)) or a transmission on a PDSCH associated with the MPDCCH. In these embodiments, network node 130 may allocate at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for transmission in the USS (or “MPCCHUSS”) for the MPDCCH or for transmission on the PDSCH.

[0147] In the example, in an embodiment where the first communication includes transmissions in the MPCCH USS, the second communication may include transmissions of synchronization signals (such as PSS and SSS); and / or transmissions on the PBCH. In the example, at least one NB assigned to the MPCCH USS may exclude NBs used for transmissions of synchronization signals and / or NBs used for transmissions on the PBCH.

[0148] In some embodiments, in instances where the first communication includes transmissions in the MPDCCH USS, the second communication may include transmissions in a core set (such as core set #0). In this instance, at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for the core set may have the lowest priority for allocating at least one NB for transmissions in the MPDCCH USS to further reduce the probability of collisions.

[0149] In some embodiments, at least one NB assigned for transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or on the PDSCH can be multiplexed for: transmission in SIB1; transmission in SI; or transmission in CSS1 on MPDCCH.

[0150] The following will refer to Figure 3C and 3D Discuss the example DL resource allocation mechanism.

[0151] Figure 3C and Figure 3D Example NB distribution patterns 310 and 312 are shown in 15 MHz and 20 MHz bandwidths, respectively, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0152] In such Figure 3C The example NB distribution pattern 310 shown and as follows Figure 3DIn the example NB allocation pattern 312 shown, NB 314 is allocated to an SI message in a non-core set #0 region (e.g., outside of region 316 or "core set #0 region"), for example, with an NR RBG to reduce the impact on the NR. Furthermore, the search order for NBs (or "SI NBs") for SIs can be the reverse of the allocation order of PRBs in the NR. Additionally, for SIB1-BR, SI NBs may not conflict with NB 318. As an example, in... Figure 3C In the NR deployment shown, core set #0 region 316 occupies 48 PRBs from PRB index 0 to PRB index 48, with PRBs allocated from low index to high index. In this instance, NB 314 is allocated to SI.

[0153] Based on the configured number of CSS2s, consecutive NB 320s can be searched in the non-core set #0 region (excluding NB 322s used for PBCH / PSS / SSS), and the search order can be the reverse of the allocation order in NR. NB 320s that can be used for MPDCCHCSS2 can be reused for SIB1-BR, SI, and MPDCCH CSS1, for example, without conflict.

[0154] For MPDCCH UESS / PDSCH, NB 322 for PBCH / PSS / SSS can be excluded, and NB 320 for SIB1-BR / SI MPDCCH CSS1 can be included. Furthermore, core set #0 region 316 can have the lowest priority for MPDCCH UESS / PDSCH.

[0155] In some embodiments, in a scenario where an NB is multiplexed by MPDCCH USS / PDSCH and SIB1 (such as SIB1-BR) to allocate the NB to the MPDCCH USS, network node 130 may determine whether a transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for the MPDCCH will conflict with a transmission on SIB1 in at least one subframe of at least one NB to be allocated. If so, network node 130 may determine whether the number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for the MPDCCH is sufficiently large, meaning that the MPDCCH USS / PDSCH can be more robust. Network node 130 may then allocate at least one NB for the transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH for the MPDCCH.

[0156] Network node 130 can compare the number of repetitions used for transmissions in the USS used for MPDCCH or on PDSCH (also known as the number of repetitions used for MPDCCH USS or PDSCH) with a first threshold number that can be set according to network deployment and actual requirements.

[0157] In some embodiments, if the number of repetitions on the MPDCCH USS or PDSCH is equal to or greater than a first threshold number, the network node 130 may discard at least one conflicting subframe to avoid a conflict between transmissions on the MPDCCH USS or PDSCH and transmissions on SIB1.

[0158] In some embodiments, if the number of repetitions for MPDCCH USS is less than, for example, a first threshold number, network node 130 may not schedule a terminal device (such as first terminal device 110) to use MPDCCH USS, but instead schedule another terminal device (such as second terminal device 120).

[0159] For example, if the number of repetitions for MPDCCH UESS via MPDCCH Link Adaptation (LA) is less than 4 (as an example of the first threshold number) and there are conflicting subframes with SIB1-BR during MPDCCH transmission, then network node 130 may not schedule the corresponding terminal device and select another terminal device.

[0160] In some embodiments, conflict handling may take into account the validity of the USS. In an example, if the number of duplicates used for transmissions in the USS is less than a first threshold number, network node 130 may determine whether the USS is valid (e.g., available). If the USS is invalid, network node 130 may discard the scheduling of the corresponding terminal device.

[0161] If the USS is valid, network node 130 can increase the number of duplicates to, for example, the next higher available number or another higher available number, to improve transmission reliability and resource utilization.

[0162] For example, if the number of repetitions used for MPDCCH UESS is less than 4, network node 130 can check the USS. If the USS is valid, network node 130 can increase the number of MPDCCH repetitions. Otherwise, network node 130 does not schedule the current terminal device and selects another terminal device. If MPDCCH UESS is greater than or equal to 4, network node 130 can discard conflicting subframes used for MPDCCH UESS.

[0163] For transmissions on PDSCH, Table 1 shows an example configuration for PDSCH repetition (or PDSCH repeat).

[0164] Table 1

[0165] As shown in Table 1, if high-level parameters are not configured pdsch-maxNumRepetitionCEmodeA The number of PDSCH repetitions is then set to If this parameter is configured to 16, the number of PDSCH repetitions is set to... If this parameter is configured to 32, the number of PDSCH repetitions is set to... .

[0166] For example, regarding collision handling between PDSCH and SIB1-BR, if the number of PDSCH repetitions via PDSCH LA is less than 4 and a conflicting subframe with SIB1-BR exists during PDSCH transmission, network device 130 can increase the number of PDSCH repetitions to the next higher available value, as shown in Table 1. Otherwise, the conflicting PDSCH subframe may be discarded.

[0167] In some embodiments, in scenarios where an NB is multiplexed by MPDCCH USS / PDSCH, SI, and MPDCCH CSS1, network node 130 can determine whether there is a conflict between a transmission in the USS or on the PDSCH used for MPDCCH and a transmission in the CSS1 of the MPDCCH or a transmission in the SI of at least one NB to be allocated. If there is no conflict, network node 130 can allocate at least one NB for MPDCCH USS or for PDSCH. In an embodiment, if MPDCCH USS / PDSCH conflicts with MPDCCH CSS1 and the PDSCH is used for paging, network node 130 may not schedule the corresponding terminal device and select another terminal device.

[0168] In some embodiments, after cell establishment, SI transmissions may be performed on and / or within at least one predetermined subframe to further avoid collisions. In an example, the at least one predetermined subframe may include consecutive subframes.

[0169] For example, regarding the conflict handling between MPDCCH USS / corresponding PDSCH and SI, after cell establishment, SI can be transmitted in fixed subframes and frames, and can be transmitted in consecutive subframes on some frames. In instances where SI is fixed and reserved, if MPDCCH USS / PDSCH conflicts with SI, network node 130 may not schedule the corresponding terminal device and select another terminal device.

[0170] Simulation results show that the proposed DL resource allocation mechanism described above can improve DL communication efficiency. The simulation configuration used is shown in Table 2.

[0171] Table 2

[0172] Figure 3E Example simulation results of the proposed DL resource allocation mechanism according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0173] like Figure 3E As shown, by utilizing the proposed DL resource allocation mechanism, in instances with 2 DL NBs, 4 DL NBs, 6 DL NBs, and 8 DL NBs, the DL cell throughput can be enhanced by 324, 326, 328, and 340, respectively.

[0174] Example Use Case 2: UL Resource Allocation In some embodiments, both the first and second communications subject to conflict management can be UL communications. In the example, the first and second communications can be performed on the PUCCH. Some UL resource allocation mechanism can be employed to avoid conflicts between transmissions on the PUCCH.

[0175] In some embodiments, the first communication may include a Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgment (HARQ-ACK) transmission on the PUCCH. In this example, network node 130 may determine a first set of resource indexes available for the HARQ-ACK transmission from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH. Network node 130 may then allocate resource indexes for the HARQ-ACK transmission from the first set of resource indexes.

[0176] In some embodiments, the second communication may include the transmission of a scheduling request (SR) on the PUCCH. In these embodiments, network node 130 may determine a second set of resource indexes available for the transmission of the SR from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH. Network node 130 may allocate resource indexes for the transmission of the SR from a first set of resource indexes.

[0177] In some embodiments, the first set of resource indexes and the second set of resource indexes used for HARQ-ACK and SR can be separated from each other to further reduce conflicts. For example, HARQ-ACK (A / N) can be assigned from index #0 to index #38, and SR can be assigned from #71 to #39.

[0178] In some embodiments, to allocate resource indexes for SR and / or HARQ-ACK transmissions, network node 130 may search for available resource indexes in descending order of resource indexes in a first set or a second set of resource indexes to further reduce the probability of collisions. For example, the PUCCH resource index may be shared between HARQ-ACK (A / N) and SR. The search may start from the highest probable index, and the first free (or available) index may be allocated to the corresponding terminal device to further reduce collisions between SR and HARQ-ACK. In some embodiments, resource indices for HARQ-ACK transmissions can be allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indices allocated for HARQ-ACK transmissions on the PUCCH. In an example, the resource indices can be determined based on the following: (1) in It is the index of the allocated resources. It is the number of minimum Enhanced Control Channel Element (ECCE) indices used to construct the MPDCCH, and It is the resource offset of HARQ-ACK, where The value can be configured to cause a centralized distribution of the allocated resource indexes.

[0179] In some embodiments, network node 130 can determine whether the number of NBs used for PUCCH is small, for example, equal to or less than a second threshold number, which can be set according to network deployment and actual requirements. If the number of NBs used for PUCCH is small, network node 130 can... The value is set to be equal to or less than the threshold value to centrally index the allocated resources.

[0180] In some embodiments, if the number of NBs used for PUCCH is greater than a second threshold number, network node 130 may set the bitmap index of the USS associated with the HARQ-ACK transmission. The value of .

[0181] In the example, if noOfMpdcchUessBr If the number of NBs used for PUCCH is small, the range of NBs used can be limited. For example, if noOfMpdcchUessBr If the value is ≤4, then network node 130 can be selected. Value, its indication The values ​​are 2 for coverage enhancement level 0 (CE0) and 15 for coverage enhancement level 1 (CE1).

[0182] if noOfMpdcchUessBr>4, then it can be determined based on the NB assigned to the UESS for this new connection. Value. If the UeSSNB bitmap index assigned to the new connection is in 1 and Ceiling ( noOfMpdcchUessBr / 2)(to noOfMpdcchUessBr If the value is between / 2 and rounded up, then network node 130 can be selected. The value is 2 for CE0 and 15 for CE1. Otherwise, network node 130 can choose... The values ​​are 20 for CE0 and 33 for CE1.

[0183] Figure 4 An example allocation of the HARQ PUCCH resource index according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 4 As shown, based on different The value can be centrally distributed among HARQ PUCCH resource indexes.

[0184] In some embodiments, the second communication may include further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH. In these embodiments, The search order of a set of values ​​can be configured to avoid conflicts between the transmission of HARQ-ACK and further transmissions of HARQ-ACK.

[0185] In some embodiments, The search order of a set of values ​​can be based on Set. In the example, for Offset optimization, The offset can be determined as follows: Searched for: against or The expression is (0, -1, -2, 2). against or The value is (0, -1, 2, -2).

[0186] pass The design of the offset search order can further reduce the probability of collisions between two transmissions of HARQ-ACK on PUCCH.

[0187] Example use case 3: Conflict handling between MPDCCH CSS2 and Msg2 During random access (RA) procedures, the start subframe with a duplicate MPDCCH can be occupied by message 2 (Msg2) corresponding to a non-duplicate MPDCCH. Therefore, transmissions on the duplicated MPDCCH can be blocked by Msg2. In this instance, network node 130 may have to wait for the next scheduling opportunity for the duplicated MPDCCH, potentially leading to a long delay for the duplicated MPDCCH.

[0188] In some embodiments, a conflict resolution mechanism can be employed to avoid resource conflicts between duplicate MPDCCH and Msg2, thereby improving resource utilization. References will follow below. Figures 5 to 6D Some embodiments in this regard are discussed.

[0189] Figure 5 An example method 500 for resource allocation according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Method 500 can be implemented at network node 130. For the purposes of discussion, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 The angular description method of network node 130 in 500.

[0190] At block 510, network node 130 determines that the preamble corresponding to the MPDCCH with repetition is qualified before the start of the MPDCCH. At block 520, network node 130 prevents the terminal device from selecting the preamble during the time interval after the preamble is qualified and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0191] In some embodiments, preamble qualification can be determined on a target subframe earlier than a start subframe with repeating MPDCCH. In the example, the three subframes are between the target subframe and the start subframe.

[0192] For example, a preamble corresponding to a repeating MPDCCH can be placed on subframe N-4 with a valid process, where N is a positive integer greater than 4 and represents the number of start subframes with repeating MPDCCH. In the example, N can satisfy the following equation: N mod T mpdcch=0,(2) in , . mpdcch- NumRepetition-RA-r13 These are higher-level parameters, such as Radio Resource Control (RRC) parameters, used to indicate the number of repetitions for the MPDCCH. G is a system parameter. SFN represents the number of system frames.

[0193] If the preamble is valid on subframe N-4, preamble selection on subframe N-4 and subframe N-3 can be prevented. If no preamble is valid, preamble selection functions normally.

[0194] In some embodiments, blocking of preamble selection may take into account the timing of the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH), also known as PRACH timing. For example, blocking may be performed in response to the absence of a PRACH timing in the time interval following the qualification of the preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0195] Figure 6A A timing diagram of the RA process according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In this example, the number of MPDCCH repetitions is 16, the number of Msg2 repetitions is 16, and the number of message 3 (Msg3) repetitions is 32.

[0196] like Figure 6A As shown, subframe 602 (e.g., subframe #6) is the starting subframe with a repeating MPDCCH. On subframe 604 (e.g., subframe #2), a qualifying process is performed, and the preamble is determined to be valid. Furthermore, network node 130 can predict that there will be no PRACH opportunity at the following two subframes 606 and 608 (e.g., subframes #3 and #4). In this example, the following two subframes 606 and 608 are blocked from preamble selection. Then, on subframe 608 (e.g., subframe #4), the preamble is valid again. Therefore, communication is initiated from subframe 602 (e.g., subframe #6) with a repeating MPDCCH.

[0197] Figure 6B Example simulation results of the proposed conflict resolution mechanism according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0198] like Figure 6B As shown, using the proposed mechanism with blocking processing, the time required to process 20 preambles is 40 ms shorter than the conventional mechanism without blocking processing.

[0199] In some scenarios, a repeating MPDCCH can be associated with two different CSS (such as CSS2) elements, referred to as the first CSS and the second CSS, respectively. In these scenarios, the preamble can be divided into two lists of preambles associated with the first CSS and the second CSS, respectively. For the purposes of discussion, these two lists of preambles can be referred to as the first list of preambles and the second list of preambles, respectively. In the example, the first list of preambles may include odd-numbered preambles, and the second list of preambles may include even-numbered preambles.

[0200] In some embodiments, for MPDCCHs with repetition, network node 130 may determine that both the first preamble in the first list of preambles and the second preamble in the second list of preambles are valid before the start of the MPDCCH. In instances where both the first and second preambles are valid, if a CSS in the first CSS and the second CSS associated with one of the first and second lists was scheduled in a previous scheduling event, network node 130 may block the preamble in the other list of the first and second lists for a time interval after the validity of the first and second preambles and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0201] In some embodiments, if network node 130 determines that a first preamble in a first list of preambles is qualified before the start of an MPDCCH with repetition, network node 130 may block the preamble in the first list of preambles during a time interval after the qualification of the first preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH. In some embodiments, blocking may also take into account the timing of PRACH within the time interval.

[0202] The following will refer to Figure 6C and Figure 6D Discuss example blocking processes. In these examples, the preamble is split into two lists: one list (as an example of the first list, also referred to as "odd preamble list 614") for odd preambles, and another list (as an example of the second list, also referred to as "even preamble list 616") for even preambles. Assume that the CSS (e.g., CSS2) associated with the list of odd preambles (also referred to as the previous preamble list) was scheduled in the previous scheduling event.

[0203] In such Figure 6C In the illustrated process 618, for both preamble lists, at the arbitrator 620 of network node 130, it can be determined that the preamble corresponding to the repeated MPDCCH is valid on subframe N-4, and there is no PRACH timing in subframes N-3 and N-2. Then, for the opposite preamble list, which is the even-numbered preamble list 616, preamble blocking on subframes N-4 and N-3 is executed. The opposite preamble list can be selected for scheduling on subframe N-2.

[0204] In such Figure 6DIn the illustrated process 622, at arbitrator 620, it can be determined that the preamble is valid on subframe N-4, and for one of the two preamble lists (assuming an odd-numbered preamble list), there is no PRACH opportunity in subframes N-3 and N-2. Then, for the odd-numbered preamble list 614, preamble blocking on subframes N-4 and N-3 can be performed. The odd-numbered preamble list 614 is selected on subframe N-2.

[0205] In some embodiments, for the selection of a preamble corresponding to a preamble that does not have a duplicate MPDCCH, a preamble list opposite to the previous preamble list can be selected for scheduling.

[0206] The proposed conflict handling mechanism for MPCCH with repetitions can improve the success rate of random access. Furthermore, it can improve the efficiency of CSS (e.g., CSS2) resources.

[0207] Example methods for terminal devices Figure 7 A flowchart of an example method 700 for conflict management implemented at a terminal device (such as a first terminal device 110 or a second terminal device 120) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For the purposes of discussion, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 The angle description method 500 for the first terminal device 110 in the middle.

[0208] At box 710, the first terminal device uses multiple NBs to perform first communication with the network node to mitigate the conflict between the first communication and the different second communication between the terminal device and the network node.

[0209] In an embodiment, resources for the first communication can be allocated across multiple NBs to mitigate conflicts between the first and second communications.

[0210] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first RIT, and the second communication may be performed using a different second RIT.

[0211] In an embodiment, at least one NB for the first communication utilizing the first RIT can be allocated among a plurality of NBs. The allocated at least one NB can be separate from at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for the core set associated with the second RIT. The second communication can be performed on at least one NB among the plurality of NBs used for the core set.

[0212] In an embodiment, the first communication may include: transmission of SI, transmission of SIB, or transmission in CSS that can be used in MPDCCH.

[0213] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of NBs includes a plurality of resource blocks. The order in which resource blocks in at least one NB are allocated for first communication using a first RIT can be the reverse of the order in which resource blocks in at least one NB among the plurality of NBs are allocated for core sets associated with a second RIT.

[0214] In an embodiment, the first communication includes the transmission of SI, and the index of NB is allocated for the transmission of SI to reduce the loss of resources for the second communication.

[0215] In an embodiment, the first communication may include transmissions in a CSS that can be used in the MPDCCH, and consecutive NBs for transmissions in the CSS may be allocated among multiple NBs.

[0216] In this embodiment, consecutive NBs can be assigned for transmissions in CSS2. The second communication may include: transmissions in SIB1; transmissions in SI; transmissions in CSS1 for MPDCCH; transmissions of synchronization signals; and / or transmissions on PBCH.

[0217] In an embodiment, the first communication may include a transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH associated with the MPDCCH. At least one NB may be allocated among multiple NBs for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH.

[0218] In an embodiment, the assigned at least one NB may exclude: the transmission of synchronization signals; and / or transmissions on the PBCH. Second communication may include the transmission of synchronization signals and / or transmissions on the PBCH.

[0219] In an embodiment, the synchronization signal may include PSS and / or SSS.

[0220] In one embodiment, the first communication may be performed using a first RIT, and the second communication may include transmissions in a core set associated with a different second RIT. In this embodiment, at least one NB among a plurality of NBs for the core set may have the lowest priority for the at least one NB assigned to the first communication.

[0221] In an embodiment, the core set may include core set #0.

[0222] In an embodiment, the first RIT may include category M, and the second RIT may include LTE or NR.

[0223] In an embodiment, at least one NB assigned for transmission in the USS used for MPDCCH or on the PDSCH is multiplexed for: transmission in SIB1; transmission in SI; or transmission in CSS1 associated with MPDCCH.

[0224] In an embodiment, at least one NB may be allocated in response to the following: a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH will conflict with a transmission of SIB1 on at least one subframe of at least one NB to be allocated, and the number of repetitions of the transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH is equal to or greater than a first threshold number.

[0225] In one embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased in response to the number of repetitions used for transmission in the USS being less than a first threshold number and the USS being active.

[0226] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased in response to the number of repetitions used for transmission on the PDSCH being less than a first threshold number.

[0227] In an embodiment, the number of repetitions can be increased to the next higher available number.

[0228] In an embodiment, in response to the number of repetitions for transmission in the USS or PDSCH for MPDCCH being equal to or greater than a first threshold number, at least one conflicting subframe may be dropped to avoid a conflict between transmission in the USS or PDSCH for MPDCCH and transmission of SIB1 on MPDCCH.

[0229] In an embodiment, in response to the fact that there is no conflict between a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH and a transmission in the CSS1 of the MPDCCH or a transmission in the SI of the MPDCCH of at least one NB to be assigned, at least one NB may be assigned for a transmission in the USS for MPDCCH or a transmission on the PDSCH.

[0230] In an embodiment, after cell establishment, SI transmission can be performed on at least one predetermined subframe and / or within a predetermined frame.

[0231] In an embodiment, at least one predetermined subframe may include consecutive subframes.

[0232] In an embodiment, the first communication may be performed on a repeating MPDCCH.

[0233] In this embodiment, the preamble corresponding to the MPDCCH can be qualified before the start of a repeating MPDCCH. Preamble selection by the terminal device can be blocked during the time interval after the preamble is qualified and before the start of the MPDCCH.

[0234] In this embodiment, the preamble can be determined to be valid on a target subframe earlier than the start subframe of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the three subframes can be between the target subframe and the start subframe.

[0235] In an embodiment, MPDCCH may be associated with a first CSS and a different second CSS.

[0236] In this embodiment, both the first preamble in the first list of preambles associated with the first CSS and the second preamble in the second list of preambles associated with the second CSS can be qualified before the start of the MPDCCH. In this embodiment, the first and second preambles correspond to the MPDCCH. During the time interval between the qualification of the first and second preambles and the start of the MPDCCH, the preamble in one of the first and second lists of preambles is blocked. During a previous scheduling event, CSSs in the first and second CSSs associated with the other list in the first and second lists can be scheduled.

[0237] In an embodiment, a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS is qualified before the start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH. After the first preamble is qualified and during the time interval before the start of the MPDCCH, preambles in the first list of preambles can be blocked.

[0238] In one embodiment, a block can be executed in response to a time interval in which no PRACH occurs.

[0239] In this embodiment, the first and second communications can be performed on the PUCCH.

[0240] In an embodiment, the first communication may include a transmission of Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request Acknowledgment (HARQ-ACK) on the PUCCH. A first set of resource indexes available for the HARQ-ACK transmission may be determined from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH, and resource indexes for the HARQ-ACK transmission may be allocated from the first set of resource indexes.

[0241] In an embodiment, resource indexes for HARQ-ACK transmissions can be allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indexes allocated for HARQ-ACK transmissions on the PUCCH.

[0242] In this embodiment, the resource index for HARQ-ACK transmission can be allocated from the first set of resource indexes according to the following: , It can be the index of the allocated resource. It can be the number of minimum Enhanced Control Channel Element (ECCE) indices used to construct the Physical Downlink Control Channel (MPDCCH), and It is the resource offset of HARQ-ACK. The value can be configured to cause a centralized distribution of the allocated resource indexes.

[0243] In an embodiment, The value can be equal to or less than the threshold value.

[0244] In an embodiment, in response to the number of NBs used for PUCCH exceeding a second threshold number, the bitmap index of the user equipment-specific search space (USS) associated with the HARQ-ACK transmission is used. The value can be set.

[0245] In an embodiment, the second communication may include the transmission of the SR on the PUCCH. A different second set of resource indexes that can be used for the transmission of the SR can be determined from the resource indexes used for the PUCCH. Resource indexes for the transmission of the SR can be allocated from the second set of resource indexes.

[0246] In an embodiment, the available resource indexes can be searched in descending order of the resource indexes in the first set of resource indexes or the second set of resource indexes.

[0247] In an embodiment, the second communication may include further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, and The search order of a set of values ​​can be configured to avoid conflicts between the transmission of HARQ-ACK and further transmissions of HARQ-ACK.

[0248] In an embodiment, The search order of a set of values ​​can be based on Set.

[0249] The above reference Figures 1 to 6D All operations and features described relating to network node 130 are equally applicable to method 700 at the terminal device and have similar effects. Details will be omitted for simplicity.

[0250] Example devices and media Figure 8A device 800 according to some embodiments is shown. Device 800 may be as follows: Figure 1 The example implementation of network node 130, terminal device 110, or terminal device 120 shown.

[0251] like Figure 8 As shown, device 800 may include processor 805 and memory 810. Memory 810 may contain instructions 815 executable by processor 805, thereby enabling device 800 to monitor traffic changes through virtual ports, wherein virtual ports are mapped to multiple channels; and to enable or disable channels among the multiple channels based on the monitored traffic changes.

[0252] In an embodiment, device 800 is operable to implement according to a reference Figures 1 to 7 The actions or operations of network node 130, terminal device 110, or terminal device 120 in any of the above embodiments described.

[0253] Processor 805 can be any type of processing component, such as one or more microprocessors or microcontrollers and other digital hardware, which may include digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific digital logic, etc. Memory 810 can be any type of storage component, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory, cache memory, flash memory, optical storage devices, etc.

[0254] Figure 9 A computer-readable storage medium according to some embodiments is shown.

[0255] like Figure 9 As shown, the computer-readable storage medium 900 includes instructions 815, which, when executed by the device's processor, cause the device to perform a reference... Figures 1 to 7 Any of the above embodiments described.

[0256] The computer-readable storage medium 900 can be configured to include a memory (such as RAM, ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a disk, an optical disk, a floppy disk, a hard disk, a removable cartridge, or a flash drive.

[0257] In some embodiments, the apparatus capable of performing method 200, method 230, method 500, or method 700 may include components for performing the corresponding operations of method 200, method 230, method 500, or method 700. These components may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the components may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module. The apparatus may include components for monitoring traffic changes through a virtual port, wherein the virtual port is mapped to multiple channels; and components for enabling or disabling channels among the multiple channels based on the monitored traffic changes.

[0258] Example system, UE and network node Figure 10 An example of a communication system 1000 according to some embodiments is shown.

[0259] In this example, the communication system 1000 includes a telecommunications network 1002, which includes an access network 1004 (such as a radio access network (RAN)) and a core network 1006, which includes one or more core network nodes 1008. The access network 1004 includes one or more access network nodes, such as network node 1010a and network node 1010b (one or more of which may generally be referred to as network node 1010), or any other similar 3GPP access node or non-3GPP access point. Network node 1010 facilitates direct or indirect connections for user equipment (UEs), such as connecting UE 1012a, UE 1012b, UE 1012c, and UE 1012d (one or more of which may generally be referred to as UE 1012) to the core network 1006 via one or more wireless connections.

[0260] Examples of wireless communication via wireless connection include sending and / or receiving wireless signals using electromagnetic waves, radio waves, infrared waves, and / or other types of signals suitable for transmitting information without the use of wires, cables, or other conductors. Furthermore, in various embodiments, communication system 1000 may include any number of wired or wireless networks, network nodes, UEs, and / or any other components or systems that can facilitate or participate in the communication of data and / or signals via wired or wireless connections. Communication system 1000 may include any type of communication, telecommunications, data, cellular, radio network, and / or other similar system and / or interface with any type of communication, telecommunications, data, cellular, radio network, and / or other similar system.

[0261] UE 1012 can be any of a wide variety of communication devices, including wireless devices that are arranged, configured, and / or operable to communicate wirelessly with network node 1010 and other communication devices. Similarly, network node 1010 is arranged, capable, configured, and / or operable to communicate directly or indirectly with UE 1012 and / or with other network nodes or devices in telecommunication network 1002 to achieve and / or provide network access (such as wireless network access) and / or perform other functions (such as management in telecommunication network 1002).

[0262] In the depicted example, core network 1006 connects network node 1010 to one or more hosts, such as host 1016. These connections can be direct or indirect via one or more intermediate networks or devices. In other examples, network nodes can be directly coupled to hosts. Core network 1006 includes one or more core network nodes (e.g., core network node 1008) constructed with hardware and software components. The characteristics of these components can be substantially similar to those described with respect to UEs, network nodes, and / or hosts, such that the description generally applies to the corresponding components of core network node 1008. Example core network nodes include one or more of the following functions: Mobile Switching Center (MSC), Mobility Management Entity (MME), Home Subscriber Server (HSS), Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Authentication Server Function (AUSF), Subscription Identifier Dehiding Function (SIDF), Unified Data Management (UDM), Secure Edge Protection Agent (SEPP), Network Open Function (NEF), and / or User Plane Function (UPF).

[0263] Host 1016 may be under the ownership or control of a service provider other than the operator or provider of access network 1004 and / or telecommunications network 1002, and may be operated by or on behalf of the service provider. Host 1016 may host various applications to provide one or more services. Examples of such applications include live and pre-recorded audio / video content, data collection services (such as retrieving and compiling data about various environmental conditions detected by multiple UEs), analytics functions, social media, functions for controlling or otherwise interacting with remote devices, functions for alarms and monitoring centers, or any other such functions performed by a server.

[0264] As a whole, Figure 10The communication system 1000 enables connections between the UE, network nodes, and hosts. In this sense, the communication system can be configured to operate according to predefined rules or procedures, such as specific standards, including but not limited to: Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM); Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS); Long Term Evolution (LTE) and / or other suitable 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, or any applicable future generation standard (e.g., 6G); Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) standards, such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard (WiFi); and / or any other suitable wireless communication standards, such as Global Microwave Access Interoperability (WiMAX), Bluetooth, Z-Wave, Near Field Communication (NFC) ZigBee, LiFi; and / or any Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) standards, such as LoRa and Sigfox.

[0265] In some examples, telecommunications network 1002 is a cellular network implementing 3GPP standardized features. Therefore, telecommunications network 1002 can support network slicing to provide different logical networks to different devices connected to it. For example, telecommunications network 1002 can provide ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) services to some UEs while providing enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) services to other UEs, and / or massive machine-type communication (mMTC) / massive IoT services to yet another UE.

[0266] In some examples, UE 1012 is configured to send and / or receive information without direct human interaction. For example, when triggered by an internal or external event, or in response to a request from access network 1004, the UE can be designed to send information to access network 1004 at a predetermined schedule. Additionally, the UE can be configured to operate in single RAT, multi-RAT, or multi-standard modes. For example, the UE can operate with any or a combination of Wi-Fi, NR (New Radio), and LTE, i.e., configured for multi-radio dual connectivity (MR-DC), such as E-UTRAN (Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network) New Radio Dual Connectivity (EN-DC).

[0267] In this example, hub 1014 communicates with access network 1004 to facilitate indirect communication between one or more UEs (e.g., UE 1012c and / or UE 1012d) and network nodes (e.g., network node 1010b). In some examples, hub 1014 may be a controller, router, content source and analytics, or any other communication device described herein relating to the UE. For example, hub 1014 may be a broadband router enabling UE access to core network 1006. As another example, hub 1014 may be a controller that sends commands or instructions to one or more actuators in the UE. Commands or instructions may be received from the UE, network node 1010, or through executable code, scripts, procedures, or other instructions in hub 1014. As another example, hub 1014 may be a data collector that acts as a temporary storage device for UE data, and in some embodiments, data analytics or other processing may be performed. As another example, hub 1014 may be a content source. For example, for a UE acting as a VR headset, display, speaker, or other media delivery device, hub 1014 can retrieve VR assets, video, audio, or other media or data related to sensory information via a network node, and then hub 1014 directly provides the VR assets, video, audio, or other media or data related to sensory information to the UE after performing local processing and / or after adding additional local content. In yet another example, hub 1014 acts as a proxy server or coordinator for the UE, particularly when one or more UEs are low-power IoT devices.

[0268] Hub 1014 may have a constant / persistent or intermittent connection to network node 1010b. Hub 1014 may also allow different communication schemes and / or scheduling between hub 1014 and UEs (e.g., UEs 1012c and / or 1012d) and between hub 1014 and core network 1006. In other examples, hub 1014 is connected to core network 1006 and / or one or more UEs via a wired connection. Furthermore, hub 1014 may be configured to connect to an M2M service provider via access network 1004 and / or to another UE via a direct connection. In some scenarios, a UE may establish a wireless connection with network node 1010 while still connecting via hub 1014 via a wired or wireless connection. In some embodiments, hub 1014 may be a dedicated hub, that is, a hub whose primary function is to route communication from UE to network node 1010b / from network node 1010b to UE. In other embodiments, hub 1014 may be a non-dedicated hub, that is, a device capable of operating to route communications between the UE and network node 1010b, but which may also be capable of operating as a communication start and / or end point for certain data channels.

[0269] Figure 11 A UE 1100 according to some embodiments is illustrated. As used herein, a UE refers to a device capable of, configured, arranged, and / or operable to wirelessly communicate with network nodes and / or other UEs. Examples of UEs include, but are not limited to, smartphones, mobile phones, cellular phones, Voice over IP (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, desktop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless cameras, game consoles or devices, music storage devices, power return devices, wearable terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, tablets, laptops, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop mounted devices (LMEs), smart devices, wireless customer premises equipment (CPEs), in-vehicle or vehicle-embedded / integrated wireless devices, etc. Other examples include any UE identified by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), including Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) UEs, Machine Type Communication (MTC) UEs, and / or Enhanced MTC (eMTC) UEs.

[0270] The UE may support device-to-device (D2D) communication, for example, by implementing 3GPP standards for sidelink communication, dedicated short-range communication (DSRC), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), or vehicle-to-everything (V2X). In other examples, the UE may not necessarily have a user in the sense of a human user who owns and / or operates the associated equipment. Instead, the UE may represent a device intended for sale to or operated by a human user but which may not be associated with a particular human user (e.g., a smart sprinkler controller) or may not initially be associated with a particular human user. Alternatively, the UE may represent a device not intended for sale to or operated by an end user but which may be associated with or operated for the benefit of a user (e.g., a smart meter).

[0271] UE 1100 includes a processing circuitry 1102, which is operatively coupled via a bus 1104 to an input / output interface 1106, a power supply 1108, a memory 1110, a communication interface 1112, and / or any other component or any combination thereof. Some UEs may utilize... Figure 11 The components shown may be all or a subset of the components. The level of integration between components can vary from one UE to another. Furthermore, some UEs may contain multiple instances of components, such as multiple processors, memories, transceivers, transmitters, receivers, etc.

[0272] The processing circuitry system 1102 is configured to process instructions and data and can be configured to implement any sequential state machine operable to execute instructions stored in memory 1110 as a machine-readable computer program. The processing circuitry system 1102 can be implemented as one or more hardware-implemented state machines (e.g., discrete logic, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc.); programmable logic along with appropriate firmware; one or more stored computer programs, a general-purpose processor (such as a microprocessor or digital signal processor (DSP)) along with appropriate software; or any combination of the foregoing. For example, the processing circuitry system 1102 may include multiple central processing units (CPUs).

[0273] In this example, input / output interface 1106 can be configured to provide one or more interfaces to input devices, output devices, or one or more input and / or output devices. Examples of output devices include speakers, sound cards, video cards, displays, monitors, printers, actuators, transmitters, smart cards, other output devices, or any combination thereof. Input devices can allow users to capture information into UE 1100. Examples of input devices include touch-sensitive or presence-sensing displays, cameras (e.g., digital cameras, digital video cameras, webcams, etc.), microphones, sensors, mice, trackballs, steering wheels, touchpads, scroll wheels, smart cards, etc. Presence-sensing displays may include capacitive or resistive touch sensors to sense input from the user. Sensors may be, for example, accelerometers, gyroscopes, tilt sensors, force sensors, magnetometers, optical sensors, proximity sensors, biometric sensors, etc., or any combination thereof. Output devices can use the same type of interface port as input devices. For example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port can be used to provide both input and output devices.

[0274] In some embodiments, power supply 1108 is configured as a battery or battery pack. Other types of power sources may be used, such as external power sources (e.g., power outlets), photovoltaic devices, or power batteries. Power supply 1108 may also include a power circuitry for delivering power from power supply 1108 itself and / or an external power source to various parts of UE 1100 via an input circuitry system or an interface such as a power cable. The delivered power may be, for example, for charging power supply 1108. The power circuitry may perform any formatting, conversion, or other modifications on the power from power supply 1108 to suit the power supplied to the corresponding components of UE 1100.

[0275] Memory 1110 may be, or may be configured to include, memory such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), disk, optical disk, hard disk, removable cartridge, flash drive, etc. In one example, memory 1110 includes one or more applications 1114, such as an operating system, web browser application, widget, utility engine, or other application, and corresponding data 1116. Memory 1110 may store any of a variety of operating systems or combinations of operating systems used by UE 1100.

[0276] Memory 1110 can be configured to include multiple physical drive units, such as a Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID), flash memory, a USB flash drive, an external hard drive, a thumb drive, a pen drive, a key drive, a high-density digital multifunction disc (HD-DVD) optical disc drive, an internal hard drive, a Blu-ray disc drive, a holographic digital data storage (HDDS) optical disc drive, an external micro dual in-line memory module (DIMM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), external micro DIMM SDRAM, smart card memory (such as a tamper-proof module in the form of a universal integrated circuit card (UICC), including one or more subscriber identity modules (SIMs), such as USIM and / or ISIM), other memory, or any combination thereof. The UICC can be, for example, an embedded UICC (eUICC), an integrated UICC (iUICC), or a removable UICC commonly referred to as a "SIM card." Memory 1110 can allow UE 1100 to access instructions, applications, etc., stored on transient or non-transient memory media to offload or upload data. Articles of manufacture, such as those utilizing communication systems, may be tangibly embodied in or in memory 1110, which may be or include a device-readable storage medium.

[0277] The processing circuitry system 1102 can be configured to communicate with an access network or other network using a communication interface 1112. The communication interface 1112 may include one or more communication subsystems and may include or be communicatively coupled to an antenna 1122. The communication interface 1112 may include one or more transceivers for communication, such as through one or more remote transceivers communicating wirelessly with another device (e.g., another UE or a network node in the access network). Each transceiver may include a transmitter 1118 and / or a receiver 1120 adapted to provide network communication (e.g., optical, electrical, frequency allocation, etc.). Furthermore, the transmitter 1118 and receiver 1120 may be coupled to one or more antennas (e.g., antenna 1122) and may share circuitry, software, or firmware, or alternatively, be implemented separately.

[0278] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication functions of the communication interface 1112 may include cellular communication, Wi-Fi communication, LPWAN communication, data communication, voice communication, multimedia communication, short-range communication such as Bluetooth, near-field communication, location-based communication such as using a Global Positioning System (GPS) to determine location, another similar communication function, or any combination thereof. Communication may be implemented according to one or more communication protocols and / or standards such as IEEE 802.11, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), GSM, LTE, New Radio (NR), UMTS, WiMax, Ethernet, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET), Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), QUIC, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), etc.

[0279] Regardless of the type of sensor, the UE can provide data captured by its sensors to the network node via a wireless connection through its communication interface 1112. Data captured by the UE's sensors can be transmitted to the network node via another UE via a wireless connection. The output can be periodic (e.g., every 15 minutes if it reports a sensed temperature) or random (e.g., load balancing of reports from several sensors) in response to a triggering event (e.g., sending an alarm when moisture is detected), a request (e.g., a user-initiated request), or a continuous stream (e.g., real-time video feed from a patient).

[0280] As another example, the UE includes an actuator, motor, or switch associated with a communication interface configured to receive wireless input from a network node via a wireless connection. The state of the actuator, motor, or switch can change in response to the received wireless input. For example, the UE may include a motor that adjusts the control surfaces or rotors of a flying drone based on the received input, or adjusts a robotic arm performing a medical procedure based on the received input.

[0281] When taking the form of an Internet of Things (IoT) device, the UE can be a device for use in one or more application domains, including but not limited to urban wearable technology, extended industrial applications, and healthcare. Non-limiting examples of such IoT devices include devices embedded in: connected refrigerators or freezers, TVs, connected lighting fixtures, electricity meters, robotic vacuum cleaners, voice-controlled smart speakers, home security cameras, motion detectors, thermostats, smoke detectors, door / window sensors, flooding / moisture sensors, electric door locks, connected doorbells, air conditioning systems (such as heat pumps), autonomous vehicles, monitoring systems, weather monitoring devices, vehicle parking monitoring devices, electric vehicle charging stations, smartwatches, fitness trackers, head-mounted displays for augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR), wearable devices for haptic or sensory enhancement, sprinklers, animal or object tracking devices, sensors for monitoring plants or animals, industrial robots, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and any kind of medical device (such as heart rate monitors or remotely controlled surgical robots). The UE in the form of an IoT device, in addition to the above, also includes devices for use in one or more application domains, including but not limited to urban wearable technology, extended industrial applications, and healthcare. Figure 11 In addition to the other components described in the UE 1100 shown, it also includes circuitry and / or software depending on the intended application of the IoT device.

[0282] As another specific example, in IoT scenarios, a UE can represent a machine or other device that performs monitoring and / or measurement and sends the results of such monitoring and / or measurement to another UE and / or network node. In this case, the UE can be an M2M device, which can be referred to as an MTC device in the 3GPP context. As a specific example, the UE can implement the 3GPP NB-IoT standard. In other scenarios, a UE can represent a vehicle (such as a car, bus, truck, ship, and airplane), or other device capable of monitoring and / or reporting its operational status or other functions associated with its operation.

[0283] In practice, any number of UEs can be used together, relative to a single use case. For example, the first UE may be a drone or integrated into a drone, and provide the drone's speed information (obtained via a speed sensor) to a second UE, which acts as a remote controller operating the drone. When the user makes changes from the remote controller, the first UE may adjust the throttle on the drone (e.g., by controlling the actuator) to increase or decrease the drone's speed. The first UE and / or the second UE may also include more than one of the functions described above. For example, the UE may include sensors and actuators, and handle data communication between both the speed sensor and the actuator.

[0284] Figure 12 A network node 1200 according to some embodiments is illustrated. As used herein, a network node refers to a device that is capable of, configured, arranged, and / or operable to communicate directly or indirectly with a UE and / or with other network nodes or devices in a telecommunications network. Examples of network nodes include, but are not limited to, access points (APs) (e.g., radio access points) and base stations (BSs) (e.g., radio base stations, NodeBs, evolved NodeBs (eNBs), and NR NodeBs (gNBs)).

[0285] Base stations can be classified based on the coverage they provide (or in other words, their transmit power level), and therefore, depending on the coverage provided, may be referred to as femtocells, picocells, microcells, or macrocells. A base station can be a relay node or a relay donor node controlling a repeater. Network nodes can also include one or more (or all) portions of a distributed radio base station, such as centralized digital units and / or remote radio units (RRUs), sometimes called remote radio heads (RRHs). Such remote radio units may be integrated with an antenna as an antenna-integrated radio or may not be integrated with an antenna as an antenna-integrated radio. Portions of a distributed radio base station can also be referred to as nodes in a distributed antenna system (DAS).

[0286] Other examples of network nodes include multiple transport points (multiple TRPs) 5G access nodes, multi-standard radio (MSR) devices such as MSR BS, network controllers such as radio network controllers (RNCs) or base station controllers (BSCs), base transceivers (BTSs), transport points, transport nodes, multi-cell / multicast coordination entities (MCEs), operations and maintenance (O&M) nodes, operations support system (OSS) nodes, self-organizing network (SON) nodes, location nodes (e.g., evolved serving mobile location centers (E-SMLCs)), and / or minimized drive tests (MDTs).

[0287] Network node 1200 includes a processing circuitry system 1202, a memory 1204, a communication interface 1206, and a power supply 1208. Network node 1200 may consist of multiple physically separate components (e.g., NodeB components and RNC components, or BTS components and BSC components, etc.), each of which may have its own set of components. In some scenarios where network node 1200 includes multiple separate components (e.g., BTS components and BSC components), one or more separate components may be shared among several network nodes. For example, a single RNC may control multiple NodeBs. In such scenarios, each unique NodeB and RNC pair may be considered a single separate network node in some instances. In some embodiments, network node 1200 may be configured to support multiple Radio Access Technologies (RATs). In such embodiments, some components (e.g., separate memory 1204 for different RATs) may be duplicated, and some components (e.g., the same antenna 1210 may be shared by different RATs) may be reused. Network node 1200 may also include multiple sets of various illustrated components for integrating different wireless technologies into network node 1200, such as GSM, WCDMA, LTE, NR, WiFi, Zigbee, Z-wave, LoRaWAN, radio frequency identification (RFID), or Bluetooth wireless technologies. These wireless technologies may be integrated into the same chip, different chips, or a set of chips and other components within network node 1200.

[0288] The processing circuitry system 1202 may include a combination of one or more of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit, field-programmable gate array or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, software and / or coding logic, operable to provide network node 1200 functionality, alone or in combination with other network node 1200 components (such as memory 1204).

[0289] In some embodiments, the processing circuitry system 1202 includes a system-on-a-chip (SoC). In some embodiments, the processing circuitry system 1202 includes one or more of a radio frequency (RF) transceiver circuitry system 1212 and a baseband processing circuitry system 1214. In some embodiments, the RF transceiver circuitry system 1212 and the baseband processing circuitry system 1214 may be on separate chips (or chipsets), boards, or units (such as radio units and digital units). In alternative embodiments, some or all of the RF transceiver circuitry system 1212 and the baseband processing circuitry system 1214 may be on the same chip or a set of chips, boards, or units.

[0290] Memory 1204 may include: any form of volatile or non-volatile computer-readable memory, including but not limited to persistent storage devices, solid-state memory, remotely mounted memory, magnetic media, optical media, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), mass storage media (e.g., hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., flash drive, optical disc (CD), or digital video disc (DVD)); and / or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory device-readable and / or computer-executable memory that stores information, data, and / or instructions that can be used by processing circuitry system 1202. Memory 1204 may store: any suitable instructions, data, or information, including computer programs, software, applications including logic, rules, codes, tables, or one or more; and / or other instructions that can be executed by processing circuitry system 1202 and utilized by network node 1200. Memory 1204 may be used to store any calculations performed by processing circuitry system 1202 and / or any data received via communication interface 1206. In some embodiments, processing circuitry system 1202 and memory 1204 are integrated.

[0291] Communication interface 1206 is used for wired or wireless communication of signaling and / or data between network nodes, access networks, and / or UEs. As shown, communication interface 1206 includes a port / terminal 1216 for sending and receiving data to and from a network via a wired connection, for example. Communication interface 1206 also includes a radio front-end circuitry system 1218, which may be coupled to antenna 1210 or, in some embodiments, a portion of antenna 1210. Radio front-end circuitry system 1218 includes a filter 1220 and an amplifier 1222. Radio front-end circuitry system 1218 may be connected to antenna 1210 and processing circuitry system 1202. Radio front-end circuitry system 1218 may be configured to modulate the signals communicating between antenna 1210 and processing circuitry system 1202. Radio front-end circuitry system 1218 may receive digital data to be transmitted wirelessly to other network nodes or UEs. Radio front-end circuitry system 1218 may use a combination of filter 1220 and / or amplifier 1222 to convert digital data into radio signals with appropriate channel and bandwidth parameters. Radio signals can then be transmitted via antenna 1210. Similarly, when receiving data, antenna 1210 can collect radio signals, which are then converted into digital data by radio front-end circuitry system 1218. The digital data can then be passed to processing circuitry system 1202. In other embodiments, the communication interface may include different components and / or different combinations of components.

[0292] In some alternative embodiments, network node 1200 does not include a separate radio front-end circuitry system 1218; instead, processing circuitry system 1202 includes the radio front-end circuitry system and is connected to antenna 1210. Similarly, in some embodiments, all or some of the RF transceiver circuitry system 1212 is part of communication interface 1206. In other embodiments, communication interface 1206 includes one or more ports or terminals 1216, radio front-end circuitry system 1218, and RF transceiver circuitry system 1212 as part of a radio unit (not shown), and communication interface 1206 communicates with baseband processing circuitry system 1214 as part of a digital unit (not shown).

[0293] Antenna 1210 may include one or more antennas or antenna arrays configured to transmit and / or receive wireless signals. Antenna 1210 may be coupled to radio front-end circuitry system 1218 and may be any type of antenna capable of wirelessly transmitting and receiving data and / or signals. In some embodiments, antenna 1210 is separate from network node 1200 and may be connected to network node 1200 via an interface or port.

[0294] Antenna 1210, communication interface 1206, and / or processing circuitry 1202 can be configured to perform any receive operation and / or certain acquire operation described herein by a network node. Any information, data, and / or signal can be received from the UE, another network node, and / or any other network device. Similarly, antenna 1210, communication interface 1206, and / or processing circuitry 1202 can be configured to perform any transmit operation described herein by a network node. Any information, data, and / or signal can be transmitted to the UE, another network node, and / or any other network device.

[0295] Power supply 1208 provides power to the various components of network node 1200 in a form suitable for the respective components (e.g., at the voltage and current levels required by each respective component). Power supply 1208 may also include or be coupled to a power management circuitry to supply power to the components of network node 1200 to perform the functions described herein. For example, network node 1200 may be connected to an external power source (e.g., the mains, a power outlet) via an input circuitry or interface such as a cable, whereby the external power source supplies power to the power circuitry of power supply 1208. As another example, power supply 1208 may include a power source in the form of a battery or battery pack, which is connected to or integrated into the power circuitry. The battery can provide backup power if the external power source fails.

[0296] Embodiments of network node 1200 may include, in addition to Figure 12Additional components beyond those shown are used to provide certain aspects of the functionality of the network node, including any of the functions described herein and / or any functions necessary to support the topics described herein. For example, network node 1200 may include a user interface device to allow information to be input into and output from network node 1200. This allows users to perform diagnostic, maintenance, repair, and other management functions of network node 1200.

[0297] While the computing devices described herein (e.g., UE, network node, host) may include the illustrated combinations of hardware components, other embodiments may include computing devices with different combinations of components. It should be understood that these computing devices may include any suitable combination of hardware and / or software required to perform the tasks, features, functions, and methods disclosed herein. The determination, computation, acquisition, or similar operations described herein may be performed by a processing circuitry system that processes information by, for example, converting acquired information into other information, comparing the acquired or converted information with information stored in a network node, and / or performing one or more operations based on the acquired or converted information, and making a determination as a result of said processing. Furthermore, although components are depicted as single boxes located within larger boxes or nested within multiple boxes, in practice, a computing device may include multiple different physical components that make up a single illustrated component, and functionality may be partitioned between separate components. For example, a communication interface may be configured to include any of the components described herein, and / or the functionality of the components may be partitioned between the processing circuitry system and the communication interface. In another example, non-computationally intensive functions of any such component may be implemented in software or firmware, and computationally intensive functions may be implemented in hardware.

[0298] In some embodiments, some or all of the functions described herein may be provided by a processing circuitry system that executes instructions stored in memory. In some embodiments, this processing circuitry system may be a computer program product in the form of a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In alternative embodiments, some or all of the functions may be provided by the processing circuitry system without executing instructions stored on separate or discrete device-readable storage media, such as in a hard-wired manner. In any of those particular embodiments, the processing circuitry system may be configured to perform the described functions regardless of whether instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium are executed. The benefits provided by such functions are not limited to the individual processing circuitry system or other components of the computing device, but are generally enjoyed by the computing device and / or typically by the end user and wireless network.

Claims

1. A method (200) of a network node (130), comprising: performing (210) a first communication with a terminal device (110, 120) using a plurality of narrowbands, NBs, to mitigate a collision between the first communication and a different second communication with the terminal device (110, 120).

2. The method (200) of claim 1, further comprising: allocating (230) resources for the first communication in the plurality of NBs to mitigate the collision between the first communication and the second communication.

3. The method (200) of claim 2, wherein the first communication is performed using a first radio interface technology, RIT, and the second communication is performed using a different second RIT.

4. The method (200) of claim 3, wherein allocating the resources comprises: allocating, in the plurality of NBs, at least one NB for the first communication using the first RIT, wherein the allocated at least one NB is separate from at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for a coreset associated with the second RIT, and the second communication is performed on the at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for the coreset.

5. The method (200) of claim 4, wherein the first communication comprises: a transmission of system information, SI, a transmission of a system information block, SIB, or a transmission in a common search space, CSS, for a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH.

6. The method (200) of claim 4 or 5, wherein a NB in the plurality of NBs comprises a plurality of resource blocks, and an order for searching resource blocks in the at least one NB allocated for the first communication using the first RIT is opposite to an order for allocating resource blocks in the at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for the coreset associated with the second RIT.

7. The method (200) of any of claims 3 to 6, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission of system information, SI, and an index of the NB is allocated for the transmission of SI to reduce a loss of resources for the second communication.

8. The method (200) of claim 2, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission in a common search space, CSS, for a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, and allocating the resources comprises: allocating consecutive NBs in the plurality of NBs for the transmission in the CSS.

9. The method (200) of claim 8, wherein the consecutive NBs are allocated for the transmission in a type 2 common search space, CSS2, and the second communication comprises: a transmission of a system information block type 1, SIB1; a transmission of system information, SI; a transmission in a type 1 common search space, CSS1, for the MPDCCH; a transmission of a synchronization signal; and / or a transmission on a physical broadcast channel, PBCH.

10. The method (200) of claim 2, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission in a user equipment, UE, specific search space, USS, for a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, or a transmission on a physical downlink shared channel, PDSCH, associated with the MPDCCH, and allocating the resources comprises: allocating at least one of the plurality of NBs for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH.

11. The method (200) of claim 10, wherein the allocated at least one of the NBs excludes: a NB for a transmission of a synchronization signal; and / or a NB for a transmission on a physical broadcast channel, PBCH, wherein the second communication comprises the transmission of the synchronization signal and / or the transmission on the PBCH.

12. The method (200) of any one of claims 9 and 11, wherein the synchronization signal comprises a primary synchronization signal, PSS, and / or a secondary synchronization signal, SSS.

13. The method (200) of claim 10, wherein the first communication is performed with a first radio interface technology, RIT, the second communication comprises a transmission in a core set associated with a different second RIT, and at least one of the plurality of NBs for the core set has a lowest priority for allocating the at least one of the NBs for the first communication.

14. The method (200) of any one of claims 5 to 6 and 13, wherein the core set comprises a core set #0.

15. The method (200) of any one of claims 3 to 7 and 13, wherein the first RIT comprises category M, and the second RIT comprises long term evolution, LTE, or new radio, NR.

16. The method (200) of any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the at least one of the NBs allocated for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH is reused for: a transmission of a system information block type 1, SIB1; a transmission of system information, SI; or a transmission in type 1 common search space, CSS1, on the MPDCCH.

17. The method (200) of claim 16, wherein allocating the at least one of the NBs comprises: determining that the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH would collide with the transmission of a SIB1 on at least one subframe in the allocated at least one of the NBs; and in response to a number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH being equal to or greater than a first threshold number, allocating the at least one of the NBs for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH.

18. The method (200) of claim 17, further comprising: determining whether the USS is valid in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS being less than the first threshold number; and increasing the number of repetitions based on a determination that the USS is valid.

19. The method (200) of claim 17, further comprising: increasing the number of repetitions in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission on the PDSCH being less than the first threshold number.

20. The method (200) of any one of claims 18 to 19, wherein the number of repetitions is increased to a next higher available number.

21. The method (200) of any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising: dropping the at least one subframe that collides to avoid a collision between the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH and the transmission of SIB1 in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH being equal to or greater than the first threshold number.

22. The method (200) of claim 16, wherein allocating the at least one NB comprises: allocating the at least one NB for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH in response to the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH not colliding with the transmission of the SI in the CSS1 on the MPDCCH or the transmission of the SI in the at least one NB to be allocated.

23. The method (200) of claim 22, wherein the transmission of the SI is performed on at least one predetermined subframe and / or in a predetermined frame after cell setup.

24. The method (200) of claim 23, wherein the at least one predetermined subframe comprises consecutive subframes.

25. The method (200) of claim 1, wherein the first communication is performed on a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, with repetitions.

26. The method (200) of claim 25, further comprising: determining (510) that a preamble is eligible before a start of the MPDCCH, wherein the preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH; and thwarting (520) preamble selection by terminal devices (110, 120) in a time interval after the eligibility of the preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH.

27. The method (200) of claim 26, wherein the preamble is determined to be eligible on a target subframe that is earlier than a start subframe of the MPDCCH by three subframes.

28. The method (200) of claim 25, wherein the MPDCCH is associated with a first common search space, CSS, and a different second CSS.

29. The method (200) of claim 28, further comprising: determining that a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS and a second preamble in a second list of preambles associated with the second CSS are both eligible before a start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble and the second preamble correspond to the MPDCCH; and preventing preambles in one of the first list of preambles and the second list of preambles in a time interval after the eligibility of the first preamble and the second preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH, wherein in a previous scheduling occasion, a CSS in the first CSS and the second CSS associated with the other of the first list and the second list is scheduled.

30. The method (200) of claim 28, further comprising: determining that a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS is eligible before a start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH; and preventing preambles in the first list of preambles in a time interval after the eligibility of the first preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH.

31. The method (200) of any of claims 26-27 and 29-30, wherein the preventing is performed in response to no occasion of a physical random access channel (PRACH) in the time interval.

32. The method (200) of claim 2, wherein the first communication and the second communication are performed on a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH).

33. The method (200) of claim 32, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission of a hybrid automatic repeat request-acknowledgement (HARQ-ACK) on the PUCCH, and the allocating the resources comprises: determining a first set of resource indices available for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK from resource indices for the PUCCH; and allocating a resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK from the second set of resource indices.

34. The method (200) of claim 33, wherein the resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indices allocated for transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH.

35. The method (200) of claim 34, wherein the allocating the resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK comprises: allocating a resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK from the first set of resource indices according to:

36. The method (200) of claim 35, wherein the allocating the resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK comprises: ​ ​ ， wherein is the allocated resource index, is the number of lowest enhanced control channel elements, ECCEs, used to construct a physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, and is the resource offset of the HARQ-ACK, wherein values are configured to cause the distribution of the allocated set of resource indices. ​ setting the value of the number of NBs used for the PUCCH to be a value equal to or smaller than a second threshold number in response to the number of NBs used for the PUCCH being equal to or smaller than the second threshold number the value of the number of NBs used for the PUCCH to be a value equal to or smaller than a second threshold number in response to the number of NBs used for the PUCCH being 37. The method (200) according to claim 36, wherein the following is provided: The value also includes: in response to the number of NBs for the PUCCH being greater than the second threshold number, setting the value of the HARQ-ACK codebook size based on a bitmap index of a user equipment, UE, specific search space, USS, associated with the transmission of the HARQ-ACK .

38. The method (200) of any of claims 33 to 37, wherein the second communication comprises transmission of a scheduling request, SR, on the PUCCH, and allocating the resources comprises: determining a second different set of resource indices available for the transmission of the SR from the resource indices for the PUCCH; and allocating a resource index for the transmission of the SR from the second set of resource indices.

39. The method (200) of claim 38, wherein allocating the resources comprises: searching for available resource indices in a descending order of resource indices in the first set of resource indices or the second set of resource indices.

40. The method (200) of any one of claims 35-37, wherein the second communication comprises a further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, and a search order of the set of values is configured to avoid a collision between the transmission of the HARQ-ACK and the further transmission of the HARQ-ACK.

41. The method (200) of claim 40, wherein the search order of the set of values of is based on being set.

42. A method (700) of a terminal device (1 10, 120), comprising: performing (710) a first communication with a network node (130) using a plurality of narrowbands, NBs, to mitigate a collision between the first communication and a second different communication of the terminal device (1 10, 120) with the network node (130).

43. The method (700) of claim 42, wherein resources for the first communication are allocated in the plurality of NBs to mitigate the collision between the first communication and the second communication.

44. The method (700) of claim 43, wherein the first communication is performed using a first radio interface technology, RIT, and the second communication is performed using a second different RIT.

45. The method (700) of claim 44, wherein at least one NB for the first communication using the first RIT is allocated in the plurality of NBs, the allocated at least one NB is separate from at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for a coreset associated with the second RIT, and the second communication is performed on the at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for the coreset.

46. The method (700) of claim 45, wherein the first communication comprises: transmission of system information, SI, transmission of a system information block, SIB, or transmission in a common search space, CSS, available for machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH.

47. The method (700) of any of claims 45 to 46, wherein a NB in the plurality of NBs comprises a plurality of resource blocks, and an order for searching resource blocks in the at least one NB allocated for the first communication using the first RIT is opposite to an order for allocating resource blocks in the at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for the coreset associated with the second RIT.

48. The method (700) of any of claims 44 to 47, wherein the first communication comprises transmission of system information, SI, and an index of the NB is allocated for the transmission of SI to reduce a loss of resources for the second communication.

49. The method (700) of claim 43, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission in a common search space, CSS, usable for a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, and a contiguous NB for the transmission in the CSS is allocated among the plurality of NBs.

50. The method (700) of claim 49, wherein the contiguous NB is allocated for the transmission in a type 2 common search space, CSS2, and the second communication comprises: a transmission of a system information block type 1, SIB1; a transmission of system information, SI; a transmission in a type 1 common search space, CSS1, for the MPDCCH; a transmission of a synchronization signal; and / or a transmission on a physical broadcast channel, PBCH.

51. The method (700) of claim 43, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission in a user equipment, UE, specific search space, USS, for a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, or a transmission on a physical downlink shared channel, PDSCH, associated with the MPDCCH, and at least one NB for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH, or the transmission on the PDSCH, is allocated among the plurality of NBs.

52. The method (700) of claim 51, wherein the allocated at least one NB excludes: a transmission of a synchronization signal; and / or a transmission on a physical broadcast channel, PBCH, wherein the second communication comprises the transmission of the synchronization signal and / or the transmission on the PBCH.

53. The method (700) of any of claims 50 and 52, wherein the synchronization signal comprises a primary synchronization signal, PSS, and / or a secondary synchronization signal, SSS.

54. The method (700) of claim 51, wherein the first communication is performed with a first radio interface technology, RIT, the second communication comprises a transmission in a coreset associated with a different second RIT, and at least one NB in the plurality of NBs for the coreset has a lowest priority with respect to the at least one NB allocated for the first communication.

55. The method (700) of any of claims 45 to 47 and 54, wherein the coreset comprises coreset #0.

56. The method (700) of any of claims 44 to 48 and 54, wherein the first RIT comprises category M, and the second RIT comprises long term evolution, LTE, or new radio, NR.

57. The method (700) of any of claims 52 to 56, wherein the at least one NB allocated for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH is reused for: a transmission of a system information block type 1, SIB1; a transmission of system information, SI; or a transmission in a type 1 common search space, CSS1, associated with the MPDCCH.

58. The method (700) of claim 57, wherein the at least one NB is allocated in response to: the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH is to collide with the transmission of SIB 1 on at least one subframe in the at least one NB to be allocated, and a number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH is equal to or greater than a first threshold number.

59. The method (700) of claim 58, wherein the number of repetitions is increased in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS being less than the first threshold number and the USS being valid.

60. The method (700) of claim 58, wherein the number of repetitions is increased in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission on the PDSCH being less than the first threshold number.

61. The method (700) of any of claims 59-60, wherein the number of repetitions is increased to a next higher available number.

62. The method (700) of any of claims 58-61, wherein the at least one subframe of collision is dropped to avoid collision between the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH and the transmission of SIB 1 on the MPDCCH in response to the number of repetitions for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or on the PDSCH being equal to or greater than the first threshold number.

63. The method (700) of claim 57, wherein the at least one NB is allocated for the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH in response to the transmission in the USS for the MPDCCH or the transmission on the PDSCH having no collision with the transmission in the CSS 1 on the MPDCCH or the transmission of the SI on the MPDCCH to be allocated in the at least one NB.

64. The method (700) of claim 63, wherein the transmission of the SI is performed on at least one predetermined subframe and / or in a predetermined frame after cell setup.

65. The method (700) of claim 64, wherein the at least one predetermined subframe comprises consecutive subframes.

66. The method (700) of claim 42, wherein the first communication is performed on a machine type communication, MTC, physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, with repetitions.

67. The method (700) of claim 66, wherein a preamble corresponding to the MPDCCH qualifies before a start of the MPDCCH, and a preamble selection of a terminal device (110, 120) is blocked in a time interval after the qualification of the preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH.

68. The method (700) of claim 67, wherein the preamble is determined to qualify on a target subframe earlier than a start subframe of the MPDCCH, with three subframes between the target subframe and the start subframe.

69. The method (700) of claim 66, wherein the MPDCCH is associated with a first common search space, CSS, and a different second CSS.

70. The method (700) of claim 69, wherein a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS and a second preamble in a second list of preambles associated with the second CSS both qualify before a start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble and the second preamble correspond to the MPDCCH; and wherein in a time interval after the qualification of the first preamble and the second preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH, preambles in one of the first list of preambles and the second list of preambles are blocked, wherein in a previous scheduling occasion, a CSS of the first CSS and the second CSS associated with the other of the first list and the second list is scheduled.

71. The method (700) of claim 69, wherein a first preamble in a first list of preambles associated with the first CSS qualifies before a start of the MPDCCH, wherein the first preamble corresponds to the MPDCCH; and wherein in a time interval after the qualification of the first preamble and before the start of the MPDCCH, preambles in the first list of preambles are blocked.

72. The method (700) of any of claims 67 to 69 and 70 to 71, wherein the blocking is performed in response to no physical random access channel, PRACH, occasion in the time interval.

73. The method (700) of claim 42, wherein the first communication and the second communication are performed on a physical uplink control channel, PUCCH.

74. The method (700) of claim 73, wherein the first communication comprises a transmission of a hybrid automatic repeat request acknowledgement, HARQ-ACK, on the PUCCH, a first set of resource indices usable for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is determined from resource indices for the PUCCH, and a resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is allocated from the first set of resource indices. ​ ​ 75. The method (700) of claim 74, wherein the resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is allocated to cause a centralized distribution of resource indices allocated for HARQ-ACK transmission on the PUCCH.

76. The method (700) of claim 75, wherein the resource index for the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is allocated from the first set of resource indices according to: ， wherein is the allocated resource index, is the number of lowest enhanced control channel elements, ECCEs, used to construct a physical downlink control channel, MPDCCH, and is the resource offset of the HARQ-ACK, wherein values are configured to cause the distribution of the allocated set of resource indices.

77. The method (700) of claim 76, wherein the value of the sum of the values of the first and second differences is equal to or less than a threshold value.

78. The method (700) of claim 77, wherein in response to a number of NBs for the PUCCH being greater than the second threshold number, the value of the bit map index of a user equipment, UE, specific search space, USS, associated with the transmission of the HARQ-ACK is set. is set.

79. The method (700) of any of claims 74 to 78, wherein the second communication comprises a transmission of a scheduling request, SR, on the PUCCH, a second, different set of resource indices available for the transmission of the SR is determined from the resource indices for the PUCCH, the resource index for the transmission of the SR is allocated from the second set of resource indices.

80. The method (700) of claim 79, wherein the available resource indices are searched in descending order of resource indices in the first set of resource indices or the second set of resource indices.

81. The method (700) according to any one of claims 78 to 80, wherein the second communication comprises a further transmission of HARQ-ACK on the PUCCH, and a search order of the set of values is configured to avoid a collision between the transmission of the HARQ-ACK and the further transmission of the HARQ-ACK.

82. The method (700) of claim 81, wherein the search order of the set of values is based on is set.

83. A network node (130, 800) comprising: a processor (805); and a memory (810) containing instructions (815) executable by the processor (805), whereby the network node (130, 800) is operative to perform the method (200) of any of claims 1 to 41.

84. A terminal device (110, 120, 800) comprising: a processor (805); and a memory (810) containing instructions (815) executable by the processor (805), whereby the terminal device (110, 120, 800) is operative to perform the method (700) of any of claims 42 to 82.

85. A computer readable storage medium (900) having stored thereon instructions (815) which, when executed by at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method (200, 700) of any of claims 1 to 41 or claims 42 to 82.

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