SSB coverage enhancements

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G communication system or a 6G communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond 4G communication systems such as Long Term Evolution (LTE). An apparatus and method for enhancing SSB coverage. A method performed by a base station includes transmitting, in a synchronization signal block (SSB) burst, a first SSB signal and one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal. The first SSB signal and one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal are distinguished based on the indication signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to wireless communication systems, and more specifically, to methods and apparatus for enhancing the coverage of synchronization signal blocks (SSBs). Background Technology

[0002] Considering the evolution of wireless communication from generation to generation, these technologies have primarily focused on human-facing services such as voice calls, multimedia services, and data services. Following the commercialization of 5G (fifth-generation) communication systems, the number of connected devices is expected to grow exponentially. These connected devices will increasingly connect to communication networks. Examples of connected things can include vehicles, robots, drones, home appliances, displays, smart sensors connected to various infrastructures, construction machinery, and factory equipment. Mobile devices are expected to evolve in various form factors, such as augmented reality glasses, virtual reality headsets, and holographic devices. Efforts are underway to develop improved 6G communication systems to provide a wide range of services by connecting hundreds of billions of devices and things in the 6G (sixth-generation) era. For these reasons, 6G communication systems are referred to as "beyond 5G" systems.

[0003] The 6G communication system, which is expected to be commercialized around 2030, will have peak data rates in the terabyte (1,000 gigabyte) range and radio latency of less than 100 microseconds, making it 50 times faster than the 5G communication system and with radio latency of 1 / 10 of that of the 5G communication system.

[0004] To achieve such high data rates and ultra-low latency, 6G communication systems have been considered for implementation in the terahertz band (e.g., the 95 GHz to 3 THz band). Given that path loss and atmospheric absorption in the terahertz band are expected to be more severe than those in the millimeter-wave band introduced in 5G, technologies capable of ensuring signal transmission distance (i.e., coverage) will become even more critical. As key technologies for ensuring coverage, it is necessary to develop radio frequency (RF) components, antennas, novel waveforms with better coverage than orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), beamforming and massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and multi-antenna transmission technologies such as massive MIMO. Furthermore, new technologies for improving the coverage of terahertz band signals have been discussed, such as metamaterial-based lenses and antennas, orbital angular momentum (OAM), and reconfigurable smart surfaces (RIS).

[0005] Furthermore, to improve spectrum efficiency and overall network performance, the following technologies have been developed for 6G communication systems: full-duplex technology to enable uplink and downlink transmissions to use the same frequency resources simultaneously; network technologies to utilize satellites, high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), etc., in an integrated manner; improved network architectures to support mobile base stations and achieve network operation optimization and automation; dynamic spectrum sharing technology to avoid conflicts based on spectrum usage prediction; the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in wireless communication to improve overall network operation by leveraging AI from the design phase of 6G development and incorporating end-to-end AI support; and next-generation distributed computing technologies to overcome the limitations of UE computing capabilities through ultra-high-performance communication and computing resources available on the network, such as mobile edge computing (MEC) and the cloud. In addition, efforts are continuing to enhance connectivity between devices, optimize networks, promote the software-defined networking of network entities, and increase the openness of wireless communication by designing new protocols for use in 6G communication systems, developing mechanisms for achieving hardware-based secure environments and secure data use, and developing technologies for maintaining privacy.

[0006] Research and development on hyper-connectivity aspects of 6G communication systems, including human-to-machine (P2M) and machine-to-machine (M2M) technologies, are expected to deliver the next hyper-connected experience. Specifically, services such as truly immersive extended reality (XR), high-fidelity mobile holograms, and digital copies are anticipated to be available through 6G communication systems. Furthermore, services such as remote surgery, industrial automation, and emergency response for enhanced security and reliability will be provided through 6G communication systems, enabling these technologies to be applied to various fields such as industry, healthcare, automotive, and home appliances.

[0007] Wireless communication is already one of the most successful innovations in modern history. Recently, the number of users of wireless communication services exceeded 5 billion and continues to grow rapidly. The demand for wireless data services is growing rapidly due to the increasing prevalence of smartphones and other mobile data devices (such as tablets, laptops, netbooks, e-book readers, and machine-type devices) among consumers and businesses. To meet the high growth of mobile data services and support new applications and deployments, improvements in radio interface efficiency and coverage are crucial. To meet the increased demand for wireless data services since the deployment of 4G communication systems, and to enable various vertical applications, 5G communication systems have been developed and are currently being deployed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues This disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for enhancing SSB coverage.

[0009] Solution to the problem In one embodiment, a base station (BS) is provided. The BS includes a processor and a transceiver operatively coupled to the processor. The transceiver is configured to transmit a first SSB signal and one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal in an SSB burst. The first SSB signal and the one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal are distinguished based on an indication signal.

[0010] In another embodiment, a user equipment (UE) is provided. The UE includes a transceiver configured to receive one or more SSB signals. The UE also includes a processor operatively coupled to the transceiver. The processor is configured to determine, based on an indication signal, whether each of the one or more SSB signals is an original SSB signal or a repetition of the original SSB signal.

[0011] In another embodiment, a method performed by a base station is provided. The method includes transmitting a first SSB signal and one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal within an SSB burst. The first SSB signal and the one or more repetitions of the first SSB signal are distinguished based on an indication signal.

[0012] Other technical features will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following figures, description and claims.

[0013] Before proceeding with the detailed description below, it may be advantageous to define certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term “connection” and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, regardless of whether these elements are physically in contact with each other. The terms “transmit,” “receive,” and “communicate,” and their derivatives include both direct and indirect communication. The terms “comprise” and “include,” and their derivatives mean including but not limited to. The term “or” is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase “associated with,” and its derivatives mean including, being included in, interconnected with, containing, being contained within, connected to or connected to, linked to or connected to, able to communicate with, cooperate with, interleaved, juxtaposed, proximate, bound to or bound to, having, possessing the attributes of, related to or having a relationship with, etc. The term “controller” refers to any device, system, or part thereof that controls at least one operation. Such a controller may be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software and / or firmware. The functionality associated with any particular controller may be centralized or distributed, either local or remote. When used with a list of items, the phrase “at least one of…” means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and it may be necessary to use only one item from the list. For example, “at least one of A, B, and C” includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C.

[0014] Furthermore, the various functions described below can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each computer program being formed by computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, associated data, or portions thereof suitable for implementation in appropriate computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" includes any type of medium accessible by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk drive, optical disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of storage. "Non-transitory" computer-readable media excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit transient electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media includes media that can permanently store data and media that can store data and subsequently rewrite it, such as rewritable optical discs or erasable memory devices.

[0015] Definitions of certain other words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document. Those skilled in the art will understand that, in many (if not most) cases, such definitions apply to the prior and future use of the words and phrases defined in this way.

[0016] Beneficial effects of the present invention According to examples of this disclosure, by using the same beam to transmit SSB signals multiple times, which allows for temporal combination, SSB coverage can be increased without causing additional interference within the cell or to neighboring cells. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To gain a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like parts.

[0018] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 An example gNodeB (gNB) according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown; Figure 3 An example UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4A An example of a wireless transmission path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4B An example of a wireless reception path according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 5An example of a transmitter structure for beamforming according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 6 An example of a narrow beam shape according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 An example of a narrow beam shape according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8 An example of a wide beam pattern used in SSB transmission according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 9 An example of a wide beam pattern used in SSB transmission according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 10 A graph comparing the effective power of SSB beam gain in two different systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 11 An example of the repetition order of the SSB signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 12 An example method performed by a UE in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 13 An example method for dynamically adjusting the SSB repetition order based on cell site key performance indicators (KPIs) is shown, executed by a gNB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14 An example method is shown, performed by a gNB, according to embodiments of this disclosure, for determining the order of repetition; and Figure 15 An example of the repetition order of an SSB signal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The following discussion Figures 1 to 15 The various non-limiting embodiments used to describe the principles of this disclosure in this patent document are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of this disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system or device.

[0020] To meet the increased demand for wireless data services since the deployment of 4G communication systems, and to enable various vertical applications, 5G / NR communication systems have been developed and are currently being deployed. 5G / NR communication systems are implemented in higher frequency (mmWave) bands (e.g., 28 GHz or 60 GHz bands) to achieve higher data rates, or in lower frequency bands (such as 6 GHz) to achieve robust coverage and mobility support. To reduce radio wave propagation loss and increase transmission distance, beamforming, massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and massive MIMO technologies are discussed in 5G / NR communication systems.

[0021] In addition, in 5G / NR communication systems, development is underway to improve system networks based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, cooperative communication, coordinated multipoint (CoMP), and receiver interference cancellation.

[0022] Because some embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in 5G systems, 5G systems and associated frequency bands are discussed for reference. However, this disclosure is not limited to 5G systems or associated frequency bands, and embodiments of this disclosure can be used in combination with any frequency band. For example, aspects of this disclosure can also be applied to the deployment of 5G communication systems, 6G, or even later versions that may use terahertz (THz) frequency bands.

[0023] The following Figures 1 to 3 Various embodiments of communication technologies implemented in wireless communication systems and using orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) or orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) are described. Figures 1 to 3 The description does not imply any limitation on the physical or architectural aspects of how the different embodiments can be implemented. Different embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged communication system.

[0024] Figure 1 An example wireless network 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 The embodiment of the wireless network 100 shown is for illustrative purposes only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless network 100 includes gNB 101 (e.g., a base station BS), gNB 102, and gNB 103. gNB 101 communicates with gNB 102 and gNB 103. gNB 101 also communicates with at least one network 130, such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network.

[0026] gNB 102 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 to a plurality of first UEs within its coverage area 120. The plurality of first UEs includes: UE 111, which may be located in a small business; UE 112, which may be located in an enterprise; UE 113, which may be a WiFi hotspot; UE 114, which may be located in a first residence; UE 115, which may be located in a second residence; and UE 116, which may be a mobile device, such as a cellular phone, wireless laptop computer, wireless PDA, etc. gNB 103 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 to a plurality of second UEs within its coverage area 125. The plurality of second UEs includes UE 115 and UE 116. In some embodiments, one or more of gNBs 101-103 may communicate with each other and with UEs 111-116 using 5G / NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A Advanced, WiMAX, WiFi, or other wireless communication technologies.

[0027] Depending on the network type, the term "base station" or "BS" can refer to any component (or set of components) configured to provide radio access to a network, such as a transmitting point (TP), a transmitting-receiving point (TRP), an enhanced base station (eNodeB or eNB), a 5G / NR base station (gNB), a macro cell, a femtocell, a WiFi access point (AP), or other wireless enabling devices. A base station can provide radio access according to one or more wireless communication protocols, such as 5G / NR 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Wi-Fi 802.11a / b / g / n / ac, etc. For convenience, the terms "BS" and "TRP" are used interchangeably in this patent document to refer to network infrastructure components that provide radio access to remote terminals. Furthermore, depending on the network type, the term "user equipment" or "UE" can refer to any component such as a "mobile station," "subscriber station," "remote terminal," "wireless terminal," "receiving point," or "user equipment." For convenience, the terms “user equipment” and “UE” are used in this patent document to refer to a remote wireless device for wireless access to a BS, whether the UE is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or is generally considered to be a fixed device (such as a desktop computer or vending machine).

[0028] The dashed lines indicate the approximate extent of coverage areas 120 and 125, which are shown as approximately circular for illustrative and explanatory purposes only. It should be clearly understood that coverage areas associated with the gNB (such as coverage areas 120 and 125) may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending on the configuration of the gNB and variations in the radio environment associated with natural and man-made obstacles.

[0029] As described in more detail below, one or more of UEs 111-116 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for utilizing enhanced SSB coverage. In some embodiments, one or more of BSs 101-103 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for providing enhanced SSB coverage.

[0030] although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network is shown, but more can be found on... Figure 1 Various modifications can be made. For example, wireless network 100 can include any number of gNBs and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. Furthermore, gNB 101 can communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide these UEs with wireless broadband access to network 130. Similarly, each gNB 102-103 can communicate directly with network 130 and provide UEs with direct wireless broadband access to network 130. Additionally, gNBs 101, 102, and / or 103 can provide access to other or additional external networks, such as external telephone networks or other types of data networks.

[0031] Figure 2 An example gNB 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 The embodiment of gNB 102 shown is for illustrative purposes only, and Figure 1 gNBs 101 and 103 can have the same or similar configurations. However, gNBs come in a wide variety of configurations, and Figure 2 This disclosure is not intended to limit the scope to any particular implementation of gNB.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, gNB 102 includes multiple antennas 205a-205n, multiple transceivers 210a-210n, a controller / processor 225, a memory 230, and a backhaul or network interface 235.

[0033] Transceivers 210a-210n receive incoming radio frequency (RF) signals, such as signals transmitted by a UE in wireless network 100, from antennas 205a-205n. Transceivers 210a-210n down-convert the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are processed by receive (RX) processing circuitry in transceivers 210a-210n and / or controller / processor 225, which generates processed baseband signals by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. Controller / processor 225 may further process the baseband signals.

[0034] The transmit (TX) processing circuitry in transceivers 210a-210n and / or controller / processor 225 receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from controller / processor 225. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. Transceivers 210a-210n up-convert the baseband or IF signal into an RF signal transmitted via antennas 205a-205n.

[0035] The controller / processor 225 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the gNB 102. For example, the controller / processor 225 may control the transceivers 210a-210n to receive uplink (UL) channel signals and transmit downlink (DL) channel signals according to known principles. The controller / processor 225 may also support additional functions, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, the controller / processor 225 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, where outgoing / incoming signals from / to multiple antennas 205a-205n are weighted differently to effectively guide outgoing signals in the desired direction. As another example, the controller / processor 225 may support methods for enhancing SSB coverage. The controller / processor 225 may support any of a variety of other functions in the gNB 102.

[0036] The controller / processor 225 is also capable of executing programs and other processes residing in memory 230, such as processes for enhancing SSB coverage. The controller / processor 225 can move data into or out of memory 230 as needed by the executing processes.

[0037] The controller / processor 225 is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface 235. The backhaul or network interface 235 allows the gNB 102 to communicate with other devices or systems via a backhaul connection or over a network. Interface 235 can support communication via any suitable wired or wireless connection. For example, when the gNB 102 is implemented as part of a cellular communication system (such as a system supporting 5G / NR, LTE, or LTE-A), interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate with other gNBs via a wired or wireless backhaul connection. When the gNB 102 is implemented as an access point, interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate via a wired or wireless local area network or via a wired or wireless connection to a larger network (such as the Internet). Interface 235 includes any suitable architecture supporting communication via a wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet or a transceiver.

[0038] The memory 230 is coupled to the controller / processor 225. A portion of the memory 230 may include RAM, and another portion of the memory 230 may include flash memory or other ROM.

[0039] although Figure 2 An example of gNB 102 is shown, but it is possible to compare it with other models. Figure 2 Various changes can be made. For example, gNB 102 can include... Figure 2 Each component, in any number as shown. Furthermore, Figure 2 The various components can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components can be added as needed.

[0040] Figure 3 An example UE 116 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 3 The embodiment of UE 116 shown is for illustrative purposes only, and Figure 1 UEs 111-115 can have the same or similar configurations. However, UEs have a wide variety of configurations, and Figure 3 This disclosure is not intended to limit the scope to any particular implementation of the UE.

[0041] like Figure 3 As shown, UE 116 includes an antenna 305, a transceiver 310, and a microphone 320. UE 116 also includes a speaker 330, a processor 340, an input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 345, an input 350, a display 355, and memory 360. Memory 360 includes an operating system (OS) 361 and one or more applications 362.

[0042] Transceiver 310 receives incoming RF signals transmitted by a gNB of wireless network 100 from antenna 305. Transceiver 310 down-converts the incoming RF signals to generate an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband signal. The IF or baseband signal is processed by an RX processing circuit in transceiver 310 and / or processor 340, which generates a processed baseband signal by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signal. The RX processing circuit sends the processed baseband signal to speaker 330 (e.g., for voice data) or to processor 340 (e.g., for web browsing data).

[0043] The TX processing circuitry in transceiver 310 and / or processor 340 receives analog or digital voice data from microphone 320 or other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from processor 340. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. Transceiver 310 up-converts the baseband or IF signal into an RF signal transmitted via antenna 305.

[0044] Processor 340 may include one or more processors or other processing devices and executes OS 361 stored in memory 360 to control the overall operation of UE 116. For example, processor 340 may control transceiver 310 to receive DL channel signals and transmit UL channel signals according to known principles. In some embodiments, processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0045] Processor 340 is also capable of executing other processes and programs residing in memory 360. For example, processor 340 can execute processes for utilizing enhanced SSB coverage as described in embodiments of this disclosure. Processor 340 can move data into or out of memory 360 as needed for the execution process. In some embodiments, processor 340 is configured to execute application 362 based on OS 361 or in response to signals received from gNB or operator. Processor 340 is also coupled to I / O interface 345, which provides UE 116 with the ability to connect to other devices, such as laptop computers and handheld computers. I / O interface 345 is the communication path between these accessories and processor 340.

[0046] The processor 340 is also connected to an input 350 (which includes, for example, a touchscreen, keypad, etc.) and a display 355. The operator of the UE 116 can use the input 350 to input data into the UE 116. The display 355 may be a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, or other display capable of displaying text and / or at least limited graphics from a website.

[0047] The memory 360 is coupled to the processor 340. A portion of the memory 360 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of the memory 360 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0048] although Figure 3 An example of UE 116 is shown, but it is possible to modify it. Figure 3 Make various changes. For example, Figure 3 The various components can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components can be added as needed. As a specific example, processor 340 can be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). In another example, transceiver 310 can include any number of transceivers and signal processing chains and can be connected to any number of antennas. Furthermore, although... Figure 3 The UE 116 is shown configured as a mobile phone or smartphone, but the UE can be configured to operate as other types of mobile or fixed devices.

[0049] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Examples of wireless transmit and receive paths 400 and 450 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown respectively. For example, transmit path 400 may be described as being implemented in a gNB (such as gNB 102), while receive path 450 may be described as being implemented in a UE (such as UE 116). However, it should be understood that receive path 450 may be implemented in a gNB, and transmit path 400 may be implemented in a UE. In some embodiments, transmit path 400 and / or receive path 450 are configured to support enhanced SSB coverage, as described in embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] like Figure 4A As shown, the transmit path 400 includes a channel coding and modulation block 405, a serial-to-parallel (S-to-P) block 410, an N-size inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) block 415, a parallel-to-serial (P-to-S) block 420, a cyclic prefix addition block 425, and an up-converter (UC) 430. The receive path 450 includes a down-converter (DC) 455, a cyclic prefix removal block 460, a serial-to-parallel block 465, an N-size fast Fourier transform (FFT) block 470, a parallel-to-serial block 475, and a channel decoding and demodulation block 480.

[0051] In transmit path 400, channel coding and modulation block 405 receives a set of information bits, applies coding (such as low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding), and modulates the input bits (such as with quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)) to generate a sequence of frequency-domain modulated symbols. Serial-to-parallel block 410 converts (such as demultiplexes) the serial modulated symbols into parallel data to generate N parallel symbol streams, where N is the IFFT / FFT size used in the gNB and UE. IFFT block 415 of size N performs an IFFT operation on the N parallel symbol streams to generate a time-domain output signal. Parallel-to-serial block 420 converts (such as multiplexes) the parallel time-domain output symbols from IFFT block 415 of size N to generate a serial time-domain signal. Cyclic prefix addition block 425 inserts a cyclic prefix into the time-domain signal. Upconverter 430 modulates (such as upconverts) the output of cyclic prefix addition block 425 to an RF frequency for transmission via the wireless channel. The signal can also be filtered at the baseband before being converted to the RF frequency.

[0052] like Figure 4B As shown, downconverter 455 downconverts the received signal to the baseband frequency, and cyclic prefix removal block 460 removes the cyclic prefix to generate a serial time-domain baseband signal. Serial-to-parallel block 465 converts the time-domain baseband signal into a parallel time-domain signal. FFT block 470 of size N performs the FFT algorithm to generate N parallel frequency-domain signals. (P-to-S) block 475 converts the parallel frequency-domain signals into a sequence of modulated data symbols. Channel decoding and demodulation block 480 demodulates and decodes the modulated symbols to recover the original input data stream.

[0053] Each of gNBs 101-103 can implement a transmission path 400 similar to that used for transmitting to UEs 111-116 in the downlink, and a reception path 450 similar to that used for receiving from UEs 111-116 in the uplink. Similarly, each of UEs 111-116 can implement a transmission path 400 for transmitting to gNBs 101-103 in the uplink, and a reception path 450 for receiving from gNBs 101-103 in the downlink.

[0054] Figure 4A and Figure 4B Each component in the system can be implemented using only hardware or a combination of hardware and software / firmware. As a specific example, Figure 4A and Figure 4BAt least some components can be implemented in software, while others can be implemented by configurable hardware or a hybrid of software and configurable hardware. For example, FFT block 470 and IFFT block 415 can be implemented as configurable software algorithms, where the value of size N can be modified according to the implementation.

[0055] Furthermore, although described as using FFT and IFFT, this is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Other types of transforms, such as the Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and Inverse Discrete Fourier Transform (IDFT) functions, may be used. It should be understood that the value of variable N for the DFT and IDFT functions can be any integer (such as 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), while the value of variable N for the FFT and IFFT functions can be any integer that is a power of 2 (such as 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, etc.).

[0056] although Figure 4A and Figure 4B Examples of wireless transmit and receive paths 400 and 450 are shown respectively, but more details can be found on the other side. Figure 4A and Figure 4B Make various changes. For example, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The various components can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components can be added as needed. Furthermore, [the system includes...] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is intended to illustrate examples of the types of transmit and receive paths that can be used in a wireless network. Any other suitable architecture can be used to support wireless communication in a wireless network.

[0057] Figure 5 An example of a transmitter structure 500 for beamforming according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, one or more of the gNB 102 or UE 116 include the transmitter structure 500. For example, one or more of the antenna 205 and its associated system or the antenna 305 and its associated system may be included in the transmitter structure 500. This example is for illustration only, and other embodiments may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0058] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure recognize that Rel-14 LTE and Rel-15 NR support up to 32 CSI Reference Signal (CSI-RS) antenna ports, enabling eNBs or gNBs to be equipped with a large number of antenna elements (such as 64 or 128). Multiple antenna elements can then be mapped onto a single CSI-RS port. For millimeter-wave bands, although the number of antenna elements can be larger for a given form factor, hardware constraints (such as the feasibility of mounting a large number of analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) / digital-to-analog converters (DACs) at millimeter-wave frequencies) can limit the number of CSI-RS ports that can correspond to the number of digital precoding ports, such as... Figure 5 As shown. A CSI-RS port can then be mapped to a large number of antenna elements that can be controlled by a set of analog phase shifters 501. A CSI-RS port can then correspond to a subarray that generates a narrow analog beam through analog beamforming 505. This analog beam can be configured to sweep a wider range of angles 520 by changing the set of phase shifters across symbols or time slots / subframes. The number of subarrays (equal to the number of RF chains) corresponds to the number of CSI-RS ports. N CSI-PORT Same. Digital beamforming unit 510 span N CSI-PORT The analog beams are linearly combined to further increase the precoding gain. While the analog beams are broadband (and therefore not frequency-selective), digital precoding can vary across frequency subbands or resource blocks. Receiver operation can be envisioned similarly.

[0059] because Figure 5 The transmitter structure 500 utilizes multiple analog beams for transmission and reception (where, for example, one or a few analog beams are selected from a large number of analog beams after a training duration performed occasionally or periodically), hence the term "multi-beam operation" is used to refer to this aspect of the entire system. For illustrative purposes, multi-beam operation includes indicating the assigned DL or UL TX beam (also referred to as "beam indication"), measuring at least one reference signal to calculate and perform beam reporting (also referred to as "beam measurement" and "beam reporting," respectively), and receiving DL or UL transmissions via selecting the corresponding RX beam. Figure 5 The system is also suitable for higher frequency bands, such as >52.6 GHz (also known as frequency range 4 or FR4). In this case, the system can use only analog beams. Due to the O2 absorption loss near 60 GHz (an additional loss of about 10 dB per 100 m distance), a larger number and narrower analog beams (and therefore a larger number of radiators in the array) are necessary to compensate for the additional path loss.

[0060] In 5G advanced or 6G communications, it is expected that a very large number of antenna elements (AEs) will be used (e.g., An antenna array consists of numerous antenna arrays (AEs). A large number of AEs can be used to precode the signal in a manner that achieves high antenna array gain. Precoding produces a beam that focuses the signal in a specific direction, where the gain is high in the region inside the beam direction and low in the region outside the beam direction. As the number of AEs increases, the peak beam gain increases and the beamwidth decreases. For the large number of AEs used in 5G Advanced and 6G communications, very sharp and very narrow beams will be used for data communication.

[0061] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Examples of narrow beamforms 600 and 700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. For example, narrow beamforms 600 and 700 can be derived from... Figure 2 The gNB 102 implementation. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0062] refer to Figure 6 Example narrow beamform 600 illustrates a narrow beam transmitted at 3.5 GHz using an example antenna array setup with 192 antennas. (Reference) Figure 7 Example narrow beamform 700 illustrates a narrow beam transmitted at 13 GHz using an example antenna array setup with 3072 antennas. As shown in these two figures, the narrow beam transmitted at 13 GHz is narrow in shape and has a significantly higher peak gain.

[0063] In 5G-NR systems, beams used for SSB block transmission are typically referred to as SSB beams, and they are designed to be wider than narrow beams. SSB block transmission is also expected to exist in 5G Advanced or 6G communication systems. Overall cell coverage on a sector is achieved by transmitting multiple SSBs on different beams. Therefore, SSB beams should be designed so that an entire area can be covered by several SSB beams. The width of the SSB beam must remain the same between the two systems because the expected coverage area is the same and the number of SSBs is limited. The peak gain of the SSB beam is independent of... However, this is limited by the number of SSBs. Therefore, the SSB gain remains the same between smaller antenna arrays at 3.5 GHz and larger antenna arrays at 5G advanced or 6G.

[0064] Figure 8 and Figure 9 Examples of wide beam patterns 800 and 900 used in SSB transmission according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. For example, wide beam patterns 800 and 900 can be... Figure 2The gNB 102 implementation. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0065] Example wide-beam pattern 800 shows a codebook size of 8. Reference Figure 9 Example wide-beam pattern 900 shows an 8-codebook-size SSB beam transmitted at 13 GHz. As shown in these two figures, the peak gain in each example is close to each other.

[0066] To maximize antenna array gain, during data transmission, the power amplifier (PA) can be configured such that, when using a narrow data beam, the effective or equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) limit is met. When transmitting an SSB beam in the same PA configuration, the equivalent radiated power is lower due to the different beam shapes of the SSB and data beams. Previously, in 5G-NR, the 3.5 GHz band, reference Figure 8 The SSB beam is transmitted at 3.5 GHz, and the beamforming gain difference between the data beam and the SSB beam is small, typically 1-2 dB. Since decoding the SSB signal is easier than decoding the data signal, i.e., a smaller signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) threshold for detection, the coverage of SSB transmission and data transmission is consistent in the 3.5 GHz system when the gap between the data and SSB beams is less than 1-2 dB. Table 1 provides typical beamforming gains for narrow and wide beams used in beamcodebook designs; in this example, the beamcodebook design is an 8-SSB codebook.

[0067] [Table 1]

[0068] Table 1: Example comparison of peak narrow beam gain and peak wide beam gain.

[0069] SSB signals are always on, and their continuous transmission incurs overhead in the system. Therefore, it is desirable to keep the number of SSB signals and the number of SSB beams covering the entire angular range as small as possible. Typically, depending on the system configuration, the number of SSBs is limited to 8, 32, or 64. In 5G Advanced or 6G communications, the gap between data and SSB beams can be as high as 13 dB. The gain difference between narrow beams (NB) and wide beams (WB) increases due to two factors. First, a higher number of AEs can create a data beam with a significantly higher peak value. Second, for a given codebook size, the SSB beam gain remains the same.

[0070] Currently, the EIRP limit is expected to remain unchanged for 5G Advanced or 6G communications. Therefore, the PA is expected to be configured to meet the EIRP limit for the data beam. Due to the higher gain gap between the SSB beam and the data beam, the equivalent radiated power of the SSB beam will be lower in these systems. This increased gap between the data and SSB beam radiated power will lead to inconsistent coverage between data and SSB coverage, significantly limiting SSB range.

[0071] Figure 10 Figure 1000 illustrates a comparison of the effective power of SSB beam gains in two different systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the effective power of the SSB beam gains shown in Figure 1000 can be determined by… Figure 2 The gNB 102 implementation. This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0072] like Figure 10 As shown, a comparison between the effective power of the SSB beam gain in a 3.5 GHz system and a 13 GHz system is provided. As illustrated, the effective power of the SSB beam gain in one example of the 13 GHz system is significantly lower than that in an example of the 3.5 GHz system. With the increasing gap between narrow and wide beam gains and the decreasing power of the SSB beam, the coverage area of ​​the SSB signal can be significantly reduced.

[0073] In one embodiment, repeated SSB block transmissions can be used to increase SSB coverage. The UE can receive multiple copies of the same SSB signal, combining two (or more) received signals to improve the chance of successful decoding. The system can be configured with different repetition orders. In one example, transmitting the original and a copy of an SSB block (i.e., an additional repetition), the UE can combine two SSB blocks to improve signal quality, thus successfully decoding the PSS / SSS signal within the SSB block. In one example, the combined signal can be successfully decoded even when the individual signal power is 3dB lower than the decoding threshold. Assuming successful combination of the original and repeated SSB signals, the lost 3dB SNR can be compensated for by the combination gain. Using higher repetition orders and their combinations, SSB signals can be decoded even when the SNR is more than 3dB lower. For example, a 4- or 8-SSB combination system can achieve additional gains of 6 and 9dB, respectively.

[0074] In advanced 5G or 6G systems, SSB coverage can be a bottleneck. Increasing the number of SSBs may be a potential solution, but it will lead to additional interference within the cell and to neighboring cells. SSB repetition can be an alternative solution to increase SSB coverage without increasing interference. The SSB beam power remains the same, but the same beam is used to transmit the SSB signal multiple times, thus achieving temporal combination. Therefore, signal power gain is achieved through combination without increasing interference.

[0075] There are several ways to implement SSB signal repetition. In one embodiment, SSB blocks are sent in pairs, where the first in the pair is the original, followed by a copy.

[0076] Figure 11 An example of an SSB signal repetition order 1100 implemented by gNB 102 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For example, the SSB signal repetition order 1100 can be... Figure 2 This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0077] like Figure 11 As shown, an example of an SSB signal repetition order of 1100 is provided for case A as defined in Section 4.1 of TS 38.213. The provided example illustrates four SSB signals in an SSB block transmission. The four transmitted signals are two distinct SSB signals, each repeated once. In other SSB transmission cases, each odd-numbered (2t-1) signal position in the SSB block can be occupied by the original SSB signal, and the immediately following even-numbered (2t) position can be occupied by the replica SSB signal.

[0078] Other methods of repetition may include, but are not limited to: Block-level repetition, in which the original signal is sent in one SSB block, and each signal is repeated in the same order as the original signal in the next SSB block, and The interleaved repeating design consists of one half of the SSB block containing the original SSB signal and the other half containing the repeating SSB signal, as well as other possible extensions.

[0079] In one embodiment, SSB deduplication information can be transmitted within a Master Information Block (MIB) or a System Information Block (SIB). The deduplication information can be explicitly shared with fields included in the information block. Alternatively, deduplication signaling can be implicitly shared by fields or combinations of fields already present in the information block. In one embodiment, deduplication information can be transmitted via parameter validity. An example of such parameter setting could be using... k SSB Parameter value. k SSBThe parameter values ​​will be set to valid values ​​in the original SSB signal, and k SSB The parameter value will be set to an invalid value in the replica SSB signal.

[0080] It may be desirable to enable SSB repeat operation while maintaining backward compatibility. When SSB repeat is enabled, three types of UEs should be able to connect to the network. First, legacy UEs that do not support SSB repeat. Second, UEs that support SSB repeat and may be experiencing poor channel quality, which may require SSB combination. Third, UEs that support SSB repeat, may be experiencing good channel quality, and can access the network without SSB combination.

[0081] In one embodiment, it can be achieved by setting k SSB Parameter values ​​are used to support traditional UEs. k SSB The parameter values ​​will be set to valid values ​​in the original SSB signal. k SSB The parameter value will be set to an invalid value in the replica SSB signal. According to TS 38.211, the UE should assume... Therefore, in the copy version k SSB The parameter value can be set to, for example, 24, 25, etc. If the traditional UE first hears the SSB signal copy and decodes it invalidally... k SSB The value is invalid. k SSB The value can be easily discarded if the detected SSB signal is not found. Finally, once the original SSB signal is decoded and a valid one is detected... k SSB Traditional UEs can then continue their initial access process.

[0082] Figure 12 An example method 1200 performed by a UE in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. For example, method 1200 may be performed by... Figure 1 This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0083] like Figure 12As shown, for a UE with SSB repetition capability enabled, method 1200 begins with the UE listening to the channel with a combined order of one SSB signal (i.e., no repetition) (1210). For example, the UE may assume that an SSB burst is sent every 20 ms, but other time intervals may be used in other embodiments. The UE then attempts to decode the SSB signal (1220). If the UE can decode any SSB block within the 20 ms of listening (1230), the UE can extract... k SSB The value is then used to determine whether it is valid (1240). If... k SSB If the value is valid, the UE can continue its initial access procedure (1250) based on the decoded SSB information. If k SSB If the value is invalid, the UE can wait until the original SSB signal is decoded (1260). Once the original SSB signal is decoded and k SSB Once the value is confirmed to be valid, the UE can continue its initial access procedure based on the decoded SSB information.

[0084] like Figure 12 As further illustrated, for a UE with SSB repetition capability enabled but unable to decode any SSB signal within the 20ms listening period (1230), the UE can increase (e.g., double) its combination order and begin power accumulation, thereby combining two SSB blocks in a shifted manner (1270). The UE then determines whether the maximum combination order has been reached (1280) and attempts to decode the SSB signal again (1220). For example, the maximum combination order can be a UE limit or can be set by the network. If the combined SSB power is strong enough, the UE will be able to decode the PSS / SSS signal, which will achieve frequency and time synchronization for the UE during the initial connection. Then, with the help of the PSS / SSS information, the UE can decode the PBCH of the first SSB block and, based on... k SSB Determine if the decoded SSB is the original SSB signal. If, after listening for 20ms, the UE again cannot decode any SSB signal (1230), the UE can double the combination order again (1270). Note that the UE buffer size is typically limited, and the combination order is limited by the buffer size. Therefore, each UE can have a maximum combination order. If the UE's maximum combination order has been reached at 1280 and the UE still cannot decode the signal at 1220, the UE may be outside the cell coverage area.

[0085] In one embodiment, the BS can use a fixed SSB repetition order. In other embodiments, the BS can dynamically adjust the SSB repetition order based on key performance indicators (KPIs) collected from the cell site. KPIs may include throughput per UE, reported RSRP value, initial access success probability, initial access delay, initial access success rate, latency, path loss estimation, power constraints, system bandwidth, system carrier frequency, UE throughput, and other indicative metrics.

[0086] Figure 13 An example method 1300, performed by a gNB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown for dynamically adjusting (i.e., adaptively changing) the SSB repetition order based on cell site KPIs. For example, method 1300 can be performed by... Figure 2 This is implemented using gNB 102. This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0087] like Figure 13 As shown, method 1300 includes the gNB determining the SSB repetition order (1310). In doing so, the gNB generates an SSB burst (1320) having both the original and a certain number or number of repetitive SSB signals, and then transmits the generated SSB burst (1330). The gNB then collects the cell site KPI (1340), and based on the SSB coverage KPI (1350), it can determine to update the SSB repetition order set in 1310.

[0088] Figure 14 An example method 1400, performed by a gNB according to an embodiment of this disclosure, is shown to determine the repetition order. For example, method 1400 can be performed by... Figure 2 This is implemented using gNB 102. This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0089] The SSB repetition order can be determined based on various system KPIs. In one example, such as Figure 14 As shown, Method 1400 begins with: gNB calculation using SSB beam. i The average SNR of users attached to the system ( (1410). If the user's average SNR is low, the repetition order can be increased. The repetition order can improve the effective decoded SNR of the attached user. To increase the repetition order, the gNB will... i repetition order R i Initialize to 1 ( (1420). Then, gNB finds the effective SNR including beam repetition effect ( (1430). Then, gNB finds the minimum effective estimate. SSB beam i (1440). In one example, a greedy algorithm can be used to select the one with the lowest effective estimate. The beam. If the frame structure allows for an additional repetition (1450), the gNB can beam. i The repetition order increases by 1 ( ), to improve the effectiveness of the lowest estimate The performance of the SSB beam (1460). If not, the gNB will generate an SSB burst with the original and repeating SSB signals ( Figure 13 (of 1320).

[0090] Figure 15 An example of an SSB signal repetition order 1500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For example, the SSB signal repetition order 1500 can be derived from... Figure 2 The gNB 102 implementation. This example is for illustrative purposes only and may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0091] In one embodiment, only a subset of SSB blocks are repeated. For example, SSBs intended for reception at the cell edge may be in repeat mode, while SSBs intended for reception at the cell center may not be repeated.

[0092] In another embodiment, the SSB block is transmitted with different repetitions. In one option, the number of repetitions is determined by path loss and / or beam gain. For example, the cell edge beam, cell center beam, and cell middle beam (i.e., the beam transmitted in the region between the cell edge and the cell center / the beam intended to be received at the cell between the cell edge and the cell center) can be repeated different numbers of times. For example, the cell edge SSB can be repeated 4 times, the cell middle SSB can be repeated twice, and the cell center SSB can be not repeated. In another example, such as... Figure 15 As shown, SSB1 and SSB2 are not repeated, SSB3 is repeated twice, and SSB4 is repeated four times. In various embodiments, fewer repetitions can be used for SSBs with narrow beamwidths and higher beam gains.

[0093] Any of the above-described variations can be used independently or in combination with at least one other variation. The flowcharts above illustrate example methods that can be implemented according to the principles of this disclosure, and various changes can be made to the methods shown in the flowcharts herein. For example, although shown as a series of steps, the individual steps in each figure may overlap, occur in parallel, occur in different orders, or occur multiple times. In another example, a step may be omitted or replaced by another step.

[0094] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, various changes and modifications may be suggested to those skilled in the art. This disclosure is intended to cover such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Nothing described in this application should be construed as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential element that must be included within the scope of the claims. The scope of the patent subject matter is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A base station (BS) in a wireless communication system, the BS comprising: transceiver; as well as A processor, connected to the transceiver, is configured to: Generate repeating information and one or more synchronization signal block (SSB) signals; as well as The repetition information and one or more SSB signals are sent to the user equipment (UE), wherein the one or more SSB signals include a first original SSB signal and at least one repetition of the first original SSB signal. The repetition information includes information indicating whether each of the one or more SSB signals is the first original SSB signal or a repeat of the first original SSB signal.

2. The BS according to claim 1, in, When the duplicate information is sent via the Master Information Block (MIB) or the System Information Block (SIB), the information is provided by fields included in the MIB or the SIB. In the case where the repetitive information is transmitted via an SSB burst including one or more SSB signals, the information is provided by parameters associated with the validity of the SSB signals. The parameter is set to a valid value for the first original SSB signal and to an invalid value for the repeating signal of the first original SSB signal.

3. The BS according to claim 1, in, The one or more SSB signals further include a second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal, and Wherein, the first original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the first original SSB signal are interleaved with the second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal.

4. The BS according to claim 1, in, The processor is also configured to: Receive information associated with key performance indicators (KPIs) from the cell site via transceiver; and Based on the KPI, the number of repetitions of the first original SSB signal is determined. The KPIs are associated with at least one of the following: Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Path Loss Estimation, Channel Estimation, Beamcodebook Design, Beamforming Gain, Power Constraint, Effective / Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) Limitation, System Carrier Frequency, System Bandwidth, User Equipment Throughput, Delay, Initial Access Success Rate, and Initial Access Delay.

5. The BS according to claim 1, in, The processor is further configured to: determine the number of repetitions of the first original SSB signal based on its location within the cell of the BS, and The number of repetitions for the first location associated with the center of the cell is less than the number of repetitions for the second location associated with the edge of the cell.

6. A user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the UE comprising: transceiver; as well as A processor, connected to the transceiver, is configured to: The base station (BS) receives duplicate information and one or more synchronization signal block (SSB) signals, wherein the one or more SSB signals include a first original SSB signal and at least one duplicate signal of the first original SSB signal. as well as Based on the repetition information, it is determined whether each of the one or more SSB signals is the first original SSB signal or a repeating signal of the first original SSB signal.

7. The UE according to claim 6, in, When the duplicate information is received via the Master Information Block (MIB) or the System Information Block (SIB), the information is provided by fields included in the MIB or the SIB. In the case where the repetition information is received via an SSB burst including one or more SSB signals, the information is provided by a parameter associated with the validity of the SSB signals, the parameter being set to a valid value for the first original SSB signal and an invalid value for the repetition signals of the first original SSB signal. The one or more SSB signals further include a second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal, and Wherein, the first original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the first original SSB signal are interleaved with the second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal.

8. The UE according to claim 6, in, The processor is also configured to: A combined SSB signal is generated by repeatedly combining the first original SSB signal and at least one of the first original SSB signals; and Decode the combined SSB signal.

9. A method performed by a base station (BS) in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: Generate repeating information and one or more synchronization signal block (SSB) signals; as well as The repeat information and one or more SSB signals are sent to the user equipment (UE), wherein the one or more SSB signals include a first original SSB signal and at least one repeat signal of the first original SSB signal; as well as The repetition information includes information indicating whether each of the one or more SSB signals is the first original SSB signal or a repeat of the first original SSB signal.

10. The method according to claim 9, in, When the duplicate information is sent via the Master Information Block (MIB) or the System Information Block (SIB), the information is provided by fields included in the MIB or the SIB. In the case where the repetitive information is transmitted via an SSB burst including one or more SSB signals, the information is provided by a parameter associated with the validity of the SSB signals, the parameter being set to a valid value for the first original SSB signal and an invalid value for the repetitive signals of the first original SSB signal. The one or more SSB signals further include a second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal, and Wherein, the first original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the first original SSB signal are interleaved with the second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Receive information associated with key performance indicators (KPIs) from the cell site via transceiver; as well as Based on the KPI, the number of repetitions of the first original SSB signal is determined. The KPIs are associated with at least one of the following: Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Path Loss Estimation, Channel Estimation, Beamcodebook Design, Beamforming Gain, Power Constraint, Effective / Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) Limitation, System Carrier Frequency, System Bandwidth, User Equipment Throughput, Delay, Initial Access Success Rate, and Initial Access Delay.

12. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Based on the location within the cell of the BS, the number of repetitions of the first original SSB signal is determined. The number of repetitions for the first location associated with the center of the cell is less than the number of repetitions for the second location associated with the edge of the cell.

13. A method performed by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: Receive repeat information and one or more synchronization signal block (SSB) signals, wherein the one or more SSB signals include a first original SSB signal and at least one repeat signal of the first original SSB signal; as well as Based on the repetition information, it is determined whether each of the one or more SSB signals is the first original SSB signal or a repeating signal of the first original SSB signal.

14. The method according to claim 13, in, When the duplicate information is received via the Master Information Block (MIB) or the System Information Block (SIB), the information is provided by fields included in the MIB or the SIB. In the case where the repetition information is received via an SSB burst including one or more SSB signals, the information is provided by a parameter associated with the validity of the SSB signals, the parameter being set to a valid value for the first original SSB signal and an invalid value for the repetition signals of the first original SSB signal. The one or more SSB signals further include a second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal, and Wherein, the first original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the first original SSB signal are interleaved with the second original SSB signal and at least one repeating signal of the second original SSB signal.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: A combined SSB signal is generated by repeatedly combining the first original SSB signal and at least one of the first original SSB signals. as well as Decode the combined SSB signal.

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