RO group for multiple prach transmissions

Abstract

Methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer programs for multiple physical random access channel (PRACH) transmissions are disclosed. In an aspect, operations are performed by a UE and may include identifying a number M of ROs associated with a particular synchronization signal block (SSB) in a single SSB-to-RACH occasion (RO) association mode period P; obtaining a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to the maximum PRACH repetition number L; and determining the number K of SSB-to-RO association mode periods within the time period X according to the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in a single SSB-to-RO association mode period P and the number N of repetition times of the specific PRACH.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Wireless communication networks, such as fourth-generation (4G) and fifth-generation (5G), provide integrated communication platforms and telecommunications services to wireless user equipment. These networks have wireless access nodes that exchange wireless signals with wireless user equipment using wireless network protocols, such as those described in various telecommunications standards issued by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). Examples of wireless communication networks include Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and 5G New Radio (5G NR).

[0002] The Random Access Channel (RACH) timing refers to a specific time window within a frame during which a User Equipment (UE) can initiate a random access procedure to establish initial communication with the base station. During the RACH timing (RO), the UE can send a random access preamble via the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) to request network access. The RO defines the time window within which the UE is allowed to send its preamble for random access. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one innovative aspect of this disclosure, one or more processors of a user equipment (UE) are disclosed, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations for transmission of multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs). In one aspect, the operations may include: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single Synchronization Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) Association Pattern Period P; obtaining a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; and determining the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods within a time period X based on the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in the single SSB to RO Association Pattern Period P and the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0004] Other aspects include methods, apparatus, systems, and computer programs for performing the aforementioned operations.

[0005] These innovative operations may include other optional features. For example, in some specific implementations, And X = K × P.

[0006] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: obtaining one or more RO groups within the time period X, wherein at least one RO group is associated with the specific PRACH repetition number N, and wherein the number of ROs in the at least one RO group is the same as the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0007] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining a single RO group within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in the single RO group is the maximum PRACH repetition number L.

[0008] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0009] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0010] In some specific implementations, K = 1 when the single SSB to RO associated pattern period P includes at least L ROs.

[0011] In some specific implementations, when K = 1, the number of RO groups within the time period X is: .

[0012] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: determining a first starting RO position within a first time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a second starting RO position within a subsequent time period X, wherein the second starting RO position is the first starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number.

[0013] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in the second RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ½ × L × RO.

[0014] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L; and determining the third starting RO position in the subsequent RO groups within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2 or 3.

[0015] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any given number of PRACH repetitions.

[0016] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB-RO associated pattern cycle is associated with the number N of specific PRACH repetitions, where different N correspond to different K.

[0017] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

[0018] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: obtaining one or more ROs configured using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0019] In some specific implementations, the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with a particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0020] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: discarding ROs with large indexes at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs that utilize FDM configuration and are associated with that specific SSB is the same.

[0021] According to another innovative aspect of this disclosure, one or more processors of a user equipment (UE) are disclosed, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations for transmission of multiple physical random access channels (PRACH). In one aspect, the operations may include: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a particular SSB in a single synchronization block (SSB) to RACH timing (RO) association pattern period P; obtaining a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; obtaining the number K of SSB to RO association pattern periods within a time period X; and determining the number Y of RO groups within the time period X based on the number K of SSB to RO association pattern periods, the number M of ROs associated with the particular SSB in a single SSB to RO association pattern period P, and the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0022] Other aspects include methods, apparatus, and computer programs for performing the aforementioned operations.

[0023] These innovative operations may include other optional features. For example, in some specific implementations, where And X = K × P.

[0024] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated mode cycle is obtained through Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling or System Information Block 1 (SIB1).

[0025] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 2 × Y within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0026] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 4 × Y within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0027] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: determining a first starting RO position for the first RO group within the time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a subsequent starting RO position for subsequent RO groups within the time period X, wherein the subsequent starting RO position is the first starting RO + Z × y, where y ≤ Y and y is a natural number, and .

[0028] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any given number of PRACH repetitions.

[0029] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB-RO associated pattern cycle is associated with the number N of specific PRACH repetitions, where different N correspond to different K.

[0030] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

[0031] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: obtaining one or more ROs configured using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0032] In some specific implementations, the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with a particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0033] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: discarding ROs with large indexes at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs that utilize FDM configuration and are associated with that specific SSB is the same.

[0034] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: performing density control of the RO group.

[0035] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: selecting only the first RO group of multiple repetitions for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0036] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes providing a bitmap that indicates one or more RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0037] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: obtaining the ratio of multiple repetitions of the RO group used for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0038] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: obtaining one or more odd-numbered RO groups or one or more even-numbered RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0039] In some specific implementations, .

[0040] According to another innovative aspect of this disclosure, one or more processors for a base station are disclosed, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations for transmission of multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs). In one aspect, the operations may include: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a particular SSB in a single Synchronization Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) Association Pattern Period P; configuring a particular PRACH repetition number N, wherein the particular PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; and determining the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods within a time period X based on the number M of ROs and the particular PRACH repetition number N.

[0041] Other aspects include methods, apparatus, systems, and computer programs for performing the aforementioned operations.

[0042] These innovative operations may include other optional features. For example, in some specific implementations, And X = K × P.

[0043] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: configuring one or more RO groups within the time period X, wherein at least one RO group is associated with the specific PRACH repetition number N, and the number of ROs in the at least one RO group is the same as the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0044] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring a single RO group within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in the single RO group is the maximum PRACH repetition number L.

[0045] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0046] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0047] In some specific implementations, K = 1 when the single SSB to RO associated pattern period P includes at least L ROs.

[0048] In some specific implementations, when K = 1, the number of RO groups within the time period X is: .

[0049] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: determining a first starting RO position within a first time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a second starting RO position within a subsequent time period X, wherein the second starting RO position is the first starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number.

[0050] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in the second RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ½ × L × RO.

[0051] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L; and determining the third starting RO position in the subsequent RO groups within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2 or 3.

[0052] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any given number of PRACH repetitions.

[0053] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB-RO associated pattern cycle is associated with the number N of specific PRACH repetitions, where different N correspond to different K.

[0054] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

[0055] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: configuring one or more ROs using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the RO configured using FDM.

[0056] In some implementations, the number of Returns (ROs) configured using FDM and associated with a particular SSB is the same across different time instances. In some implementations, the operation further includes discarding ROs with larger indexes at a particular time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with that particular SSB is the same.

[0057] According to another innovative aspect of this disclosure, one or more processors of a base station are disclosed, the one or more processors being configured to perform operations for transmission of multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs). In one aspect, the operations may include: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a particular SSB in a single Synchronization Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) Association Pattern Period P; configuring a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; configuring the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods within a time period X; and determining the number Y of RO groups within the time period X based on the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods, the number M of ROs associated with the particular SSB in a single SSB to RO Association Pattern Period P, and the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0058] Other aspects include methods, apparatus, and computer programs for performing the aforementioned operations.

[0059] These innovative operations may include other optional features. For example, in some specific implementations, And X = K × P.

[0060] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated mode cycle is configured via Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling or System Information Block 1 (SIB1).

[0061] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 2 × Y within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0062] In some specific implementations, the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 4 × Y within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0063] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: determining a first starting RO position for the first RO group within the time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a subsequent starting RO position for subsequent RO groups within the time period X, wherein the subsequent starting RO position is the first starting RO + Z × y, where y ≤ Y and y is a natural number, and .

[0064] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any given number of PRACH repetitions.

[0065] In some specific implementations, the number K of the SSB-RO associated pattern cycle is associated with the number N of specific PRACH repetitions, where different N correspond to different K.

[0066] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

[0067] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: configuring one or more ROs using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the RO configured using FDM.

[0068] In some specific implementations, the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with a particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0069] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: discarding ROs with large indexes at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs that utilize FDM configuration and are associated with that specific SSB is the same.

[0070] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: performing density control of the RO group.

[0071] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes: selecting only the first RO group of multiple repetitions for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0072] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes providing a bitmap that indicates one or more RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0073] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes configuring the ratio of the RO group for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmissions within the time period X.

[0074] In some specific implementations, the operation further includes configuring one or more odd-numbered RO groups or one or more even-numbered RO groups for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0075] In some specific implementations, . Attached Figure Description

[0076] Figure 1 Examples of wireless networks based on some specific implementations are illustrated.

[0077] Figure 2 An example process is illustrated based on a specific implementation of a defined time period X and one or more RO groups within time period X.

[0078] Figure 3 An example is given of a single time period X applied to all PRACH repetition levels according to some specific implementations.

[0079] Figures 4A to 4C The frequency locations of ROs associated with the same SSB in each RO group are illustrated according to some specific implementations.

[0080] Figures 5A to 5C Examples are given of different repetition levels corresponding to different time periods based on some specific implementations.

[0081] Figure 6 Examples are given for multiple RO groups targeting the maximum repetition level within time period X, based on some specific implementations.

[0082] Figure 7 An example process is illustrated based on a specific implementation of a defined time period X and multiple RO groups within time period X.

[0083] Figure 8 Another example process is illustrated based on a specific implementation of a defined time period X and one or more RO groups within time period X.

[0084] Figure 9Another example process is illustrated based on a defined time period X and multiple RO groups within time period X, according to some specific implementation.

[0085] Figure 10 It is a block diagram based on some specific implementation examples of UE.

[0086] Figure 11 It is a block diagram of an example access node based on some specific implementations.

[0087] Similar reference symbols in the various figures indicate similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0088] This disclosure describes a method and system for transmitting multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs) to determine a time period X comprising a correlation pattern period of K synchronization signal blocks to RACH timing (SSB to RO) and one or more RO groups within the time period X (the time and frequency positions of the one or more RO groups). The method and system can be implemented by a user equipment (UE) or a base station.

[0089] In some implementations of these methods and systems, the time period X can be implicitly determined based on the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P and the specific PRACH repetition count N. In some implementations, the number K of association pattern periods within the time period X (X = K × P) is explicitly configured by the base station. The number Y of RO groups within the time period X is determined based on the number K of SSB-RO association pattern periods, the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P, and the specific PRACH repetition count N. The number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the specific PRACH repetition count N.

[0090] In some implementations, the number of PRACH repetitions N can be 8, 4, or 2. In some implementations, the time period X can be applied to all PRACH repetition levels or numbers (PRACH repetition number N is 8, 4, or 2). The time period X is the same regardless of the value of the PRACH repetition number N. In some implementations, the time period X can be different for each PRACH repetition number N. For example, the first time period X1 corresponds to N = 8. The second time period X2 corresponds to N = 4. The third time period X3 corresponds to N = 2.

[0091] In other examples, the technology disclosed herein describes the determination of a time period X and one or more RO groups within time period X based on an agreement reached regarding PRACH repetition in the work project titled "Further NR Coverage Enhancement" in 3GPP Release 18. The use of RO groups offers advantages in optimizing resource allocation for random access procedures, reducing signaling overhead, and improving the efficiency of random access in the network. Instead of assigning ROs individually to each User Equipment (UE) for random access, the base station can group multiple ROs together and allocate them to specific sets of UEs. This efficient resource allocation helps prevent resource waste and ensures efficient use of available resources. Furthermore, the base station can use a single control message to inform the UE of available resource opportunities for random access. Sending information about RO groups rather than individual ROs reduces signaling overhead, which is beneficial when there are many UEs in the cell or when there is high random access activity.

[0092] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to some specific implementations is illustrated. Wireless network 100 includes a UE 102 and a base station 104 connected via one or more channels 106A, 106B across an air interface 108. UE 102 and base station 104 communicate using a system that supports control for managing UE 102's access to the network via base station 104.

[0093] In some specific implementations, Wireless Network 100 can be a non-standalone (NSA) network combining Long Term Evolution (LTE) and 5th Generation (5G) New Radio (NR) communication standards as defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) technical specifications. For example, Wireless Network 100 can be an E-UTRA (Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access)-NR Dual Connectivity (EN-DC) network or an NR-EUTRA Dual Connectivity (NE-DC) network. However, Wireless Network 100 can also be a standalone (SA) network combining only 5G NR. In addition, other types of communication standards are possible, including future 3GPP systems (e.g., sixth generation (6G)) systems, IEEE 802.11 technologies (e.g., IEEE 802.11a; IEEE 802.11b; IEEE 802.11g; IEEE 802.11-2007; IEEE 802.11n; IEEE 802.11-2012; IEEE 802.11ac; or other currently or future IEEE 802.11 technologies), IEEE 802.16 protocols (e.g., WMAN, WiMAX, etc.). While this document may use terminology commonly associated with 5G NR to describe the aspects, the aspects of this disclosure can be applied to other systems, such as 3G, 4G, and / or systems beyond 5G (e.g., 6G).

[0094] In wireless network 100, UE 102 and any other UE in the system can be, for example, a laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, machine-type device (such as a smart meter or dedicated device for healthcare), intelligent transportation system, or any other wireless device with or without a user interface. In network 100, base station 104 provides UE 102 with network connectivity to a wider network (not shown). This connectivity is provided by air interface 108 within the base station service area provided by base station 104. In some implementations, this wider network can be a wide area network operated by a cellular network provider, or it can be the Internet. Each base station service area associated with base station 104 is supported by antennas integrated with base station 104. The service area is divided into multiple sectors associated with certain antennas. Such sectors may be physically associated with fixed antennas or may be assigned to physical areas with tunable antennas or antenna configurations that can be adjusted during beamforming to direct signals to a particular sector.

[0095] UE 102 includes control circuitry 110 coupled to transmitting circuitry 112 and receiving circuitry 114. Transmitting circuitry 112 and receiving circuitry 114 may each be coupled to one or more antennas. Control circuitry 110 may include various combinations of dedicated circuitry and baseband circuitry. Transmitting circuitry 112 and receiving circuitry 114 may be adapted to transmit and receive data respectively, and may include radio frequency (RF) circuitry or front-end module (FEM) circuitry.

[0096] In various specific implementations, aspects of the transmitting circuit 112, the receiving circuit 114, and the control circuit 110 may be integrated in various ways to implement the operations described herein. The control circuit 110 may be adapted or configured to perform various operations, such as the UE-related operations described elsewhere in this disclosure.

[0097] Transmitting circuit 112 can perform various operations described in this specification. Additionally, transmitting circuit 112 can transmit multiple multiplexed uplink physical channels. These multiple uplink physical channels can be multiplexed according to time division multiplexing (TDM) or frequency division multiplexing (FDM) and carrier aggregation. Transmitting circuit 112 can be configured to receive block data from control circuit 110 and transmit it across air interface 108.

[0098] Receiver circuit 114 can perform the various operations described in this specification. Additionally, receiver circuit 114 can receive multiple multiplexed downlink physical channels from air interface 108 and relay these physical channels to control circuit 110. These multiple downlink physical channels can be multiplexed according to TDM or FDM and carrier aggregation. Transmitter circuit 112 and receiver circuit 114 can transmit and receive both structured control data and content data (e.g., messages, images, video, etc.) within data blocks carried by the physical channels.

[0099] Figure 1 Base station 104 is also illustrated. In specific implementations, base station 104 may be an NG radio access network (RAN) or 5G RAN, E-UTRAN, non-terrestrial cell, or legacy RAN (such as UTRAN or GERAN). As used herein, the term "NG RAN" etc. may refer to base station 104 operating in an NR or 5G wireless network 100, and the term "EUTRAN" etc. may refer to base station 104 operating in an LTE or 4G wireless network 100. UE 102 utilizes connections (or channels) 106A, 106B, each connection including a physical communication interface or layer.

[0100] The base station 104 circuitry may include control circuitry 116 coupled to transmitting circuitry 118 and receiving circuitry 120. Transmitting circuitry 118 and receiving circuitry 120 may each be coupled to one or more antennas, which may be used for communication via air interface 108. Transmitting circuitry 118 and receiving circuitry 120 may be adapted to transmit and receive data to and from any UE connected to base station 104, respectively. Transmitting circuitry 118 may transmit downlink physical channels comprising multiple downlink subframes. Receiving circuitry 120 may receive multiple uplink physical channels from various UEs, including UE 102.

[0101] exist Figure 1 In this document, one or more channels 106A and 106B are shown as air interfaces for communication coupling and may conform to cellular communication protocols such as GSM, CDMA, UMTS, 3GPP LTE, LTE-Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A), LTE-based Unlicensed Spectrum Access (LTE-U), 5G, NR, NR-based Unlicensed Spectrum Access (NR-U), and / or any other communication protocols discussed herein. In a specific implementation, UE 102 may directly exchange communication data via the ProSe interface. The ProSe interface may alternatively be referred to as the sidelink (SL) interface and may include one or more logical channels, including but not limited to the Physical Sidelink Control Channel (PSCCH), Physical Sidelink Discovery Channel (PSDCH), and Physical Sidelink Broadcast Channel (PSBCH).

[0102] In some implementations, multiple PRACH transmissions with the same transmit beam for repeated Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) use a single RACH timing (RO) group. In some implementations, one or more RO groups are used for multiple PRACH transmissions, each RO group having a different preamble on a shared RO. In some implementations, one or more RO groups are used for multiple PRACH transmissions on separate ROs. Each RO group includes valid ROs (ROs as defined in existing specifications) for a specific number of multiple PRACH transmissions (a specific number of PRACH repetitions). All ROs in an RO group are associated with the same synchronization signal block (SSB).

[0103] Multiple PRACH transmissions (PRACH repetitions) are performed within a single Random Access Channel (RACH) attempt within an RO group. The number of valid ROs in an RO group is equal to the number of PRACH transmissions (PRACH repetition count). The PRACH repetition count can be configured by the network. For example, the PRACH repetition count can be configured to 2, 4, or 8. If the PRACH repetition count is configured to 2, there are 2 ROs in each RO group. If the PRACH repetition count is configured to 4, there are 4 ROs in each RO group. If the PRACH repetition count is configured to 8, there are 8 ROs in each RO group. Starting with radio frame 0, one or more RO groups corresponding to the configured PRACH repetition count are determined / configured within time period X. The determined / configured one or more RO groups are repeated in each time period X. Time period X comprises K SSB-to-RO association pattern cycles. The SSB-to-RO group mapping is the same in each SSB-to-RO association pattern cycle (also referred to as the "association pattern cycle").

[0104] In some implementations, the number K of associated pattern cycles within time period X is configured by the network. In some implementations, K is determined or calculated based on specific rules. In some implementations, K is a fixed value.

[0105] In some implementations, the index of the starting RO in each RO group is configured by the network. In some implementations, the time-domain starting position and frequency-domain starting position of the first valid RO in each RO group are determined based on specific rules.

[0106] In some implementations, such as in a shared RO scenario, a single time period X is applied to all PRACH repetition counts or levels (e.g., 2, 4, or 8). In some implementations, in a shared RO scenario, a separate RO scenario, or both, different values ​​of the time period X are applied to different PRACH repetition counts. For example, in some cases, when the PRACH repetition count is 8, a first time period X1 is applied to one or more RO groups. When the PRACH repetition count is 4, a second time period X2 is applied to one or more RO groups. When the PRACH repetition count is 2, a third time period X3 is applied to one or more RO groups.

[0107] Determining the time period X

[0108] In some implementations, the time period X can be implicitly determined based on the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P and the number of specific PRACH repetitions N. In some implementations, the number K of association pattern periods within the time period X (X = K × P) is explicitly configured by the base station.

[0109] Implicit determination of time period X

[0110] Figure 2 An example procedure is illustrated, based on some specific implementations, for a defined time period X and one or more RO groups within time period X. In some specific implementations, procedure 200 is described as being performed by a UE (such as...) Figure 1 UE 102 or Figure 10 (Execute on UE 1000).

[0111] At 202, the UE identifies the number M of PRACH times or ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) association pattern period P. As defined in Section 8.1 of TS 38.213, the association pattern period P comprises one or more association periods and is determined such that the pattern between the PRACH timing and the Synchronization Signal / Physical Broadcast Channel (SS / PBCH) block index repeats at most once every 160 milliseconds. Starting from radio frame 0, the association period used to map the SS / PBCH block index to the PRACH timing is the minimum value in the set determined by the PRACH configuration period. The SS / PBCH block index is mapped to a PRACH timing at least once within the association period. In some specific implementations, the association pattern period P can be, for example, 10 milliseconds, 20 milliseconds, 40 milliseconds, 80 milliseconds, or 160 milliseconds.

[0112] At position 204, the UE obtains a specific PRACH repetition number N. This specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to the maximum PRACH repetition number L. The number of ROs in the RO group is the same as this specific PRACH repetition number N. For example, if the base station (e.g., Figure 1 Base station 104 or Figure 11 If base station 1100 configures the PRACH repetition count N to one of {8, 4, 2}, then the maximum PRACH repetition count L is 8. Alternatively, if the base station configures the PRACH repetition count N to one of {4, 2}, then the maximum PRACH repetition count L is 4.

[0113] At 206, the UE determines the number of SSB-RO associated pattern cycles K within the time period X based on the number M of ROs associated with a particular SSB in a single SSB-RO associated pattern cycle P and the number of repetitions N of that particular PRACH. K is determined using equation (1), and X is determined using equation (2).

[0114] (1)

[0115] X = K × P(2)

[0116] Where M is the number of ROs associated with the same SSB in a single associated pattern cycle P, and N is the configured number of PRACH repetitions, for example, 8, 4, or 2. Function It is a rounding function that rounds a given number x up to the smallest integer greater than or equal to x.

[0117] In some specific implementations, if there is only one associated pattern period P within time period X, i.e., K = 1, then the number of RO groups within time period X is: .

[0118] In some implementations, the base station can be configured to use all RO groups within time period X for PRACH repetition, or only some RO groups within time period X for PRACH repetition. In some implementations, ROs not included in any RO group within time period X are not used for PRACH repetition.

[0119] A time period X corresponding to all PRACH repetition levels

[0120] In some specific implementations, in shared RO scenarios, only one time period X is applied to all PRACH repetition levels or counts (e.g., 8, 4, 2). Figure 3 An example is given of a single time period X applied to all PRACH repetition levels according to some specific implementation. All PRACH repetition levels have the same number of associated pattern cycles K (K is the same for all PRACH repetition levels, e.g., 8, 4, 2). Figure 3 As shown, a time period X comprises K associated pattern cycles 302. One or more RO groups are determined / configured and repeated in each time period X. When K is calculated using equation (1), the configured number of PRACH repetitions N is equal to the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L, for example, 8. The value of K calculated based on N = L is applied to all PRACH repetition levels.

[0121] If the configured PRACH repetition count N equals the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 8), then the UE obtains a single RO group 304 within the time period X. The number of ROs in a single RO group is the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 8).

[0122] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 4), then the UE obtains two RO groups 306 and 307 within the time period X. The number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L (e.g., 4).

[0123] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 2), then the UE obtains four RO groups 308, 309, 311, and 313 within the time period X. The number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L (e.g., 2).

[0124] In some specific implementations, K = 1 when a single SSB-RO association pattern cycle 302 includes at least L ROs (e.g., 8 ROs). Only one SSB-RO association pattern cycle 302 exists within the time period X.

[0125] In the example, if the configured PRACH repetition count N is set to 8, and there are 3 ROs associated with the same SSB in a single associated pattern cycle. K = = 3 is the minimum number of associated pattern cycles providing 8 ROs. Each associated pattern cycle includes 3 ROs, and therefore 3 associated pattern cycles include 9 ROs. The first 8 ROs are used for PRACH repetitions, while the last RO in the third associated pattern cycle is not used for PRACH repetitions. If the number of PRACH repetitions N is configured to 2, the 8 ROs are divided into 4 RO groups: 308, 309, 311, and 313. If the number of PRACH repetitions N is configured to 4, the 8 ROs are divided into 2 RO groups: 306 and 307.

[0126] Determining the start position in the time domain

[0127] In some specific implementations, the UE further determines the time-domain start position of each RO group within the time period X. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, at 208, the UE determines the first starting RO position in the first time period 310. Regardless of the value of the PRACH repetition number N, the first starting RO position in the first time period 310 is aligned with radio frame 0 (system frame number zero).

[0128] At 210, the UE determines the starting RO position in the subsequent time period 312. If the number of PRACH repetitions N equals the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L (e.g., 8), then the starting RO position in the subsequent time period 312 is the first starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number. The starting RO for each subsequent time period 312 is determined to be a multiple of K associated pattern periods. Each time period 310, 312 includes one RO group 304.

[0129] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is half the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 4), the UE provides two RO groups 306 and 307 within each time period 310, 312. The number of ROs in each RO group 306, 307 is half × L (e.g., 4). The UE determines the starting RO position in the second RO group 307 within the first time period 310. The starting RO position in the second RO group 307 is the first starting RO position + half × L × RO. The duration of each RO is configured by the base station and can be several orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols and up to 3 milliseconds.

[0130] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 2), then the UE provides four RO groups 308, 309, 311, and 313 within each time period 310, 312. The number of ROs in each RO group 308, 309, 311, and 313 is ¼ × L (e.g., 4). The UE determines the starting RO position in the subsequent RO groups 309, 311, and 313 (second RO group 309, third RO group 311, and fourth RO group 313) within the first time period 310. The starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2, or 3. If m = 1, the starting RO position corresponds to the second RO group 309 in the first time period 310. If m = 2, the starting RO position corresponds to the third RO group 311 in the first time period 310. If m = 3, the starting RO position corresponds to the fourth RO group 313 in the first time period 310. The duration of each RO is configured by the base station and can be several orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols and up to 3 milliseconds.

[0131] Determining the starting position of the frequency domain

[0132] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location. Figures 4A to 4C This illustrates the frequency locations of ROs associated with the same SSB within each RO group. For example... Figures 4A to 4C As shown, each RO group includes 2 ROs (the configured PRACH repetition count N is 2). Figure 4AAs shown, RO group 402 includes RO1 and RO5. RO group 404 includes RO2 and RO6. RO group 406 includes RO3 and RO7. RO group 408 includes RO4 and RO8. RO groups 402 and 404 are associated with SSB0, while RO groups 406 and 408 are associated with SSB1. RO1 and RO5 in RO group 402 have the same frequency position. RO2 and RO6 in RO group 404 have the same frequency position. RO3 and RO7 in RO group 406 have the same frequency position. RO4 and RO8 in RO group 408 have the same frequency position.

[0133] like Figure 4B As shown, RO group 410 includes RO1 and RO5. RO group 412 includes RO2 and RO6. RO group 414 includes RO3 and RO7. RO group 416 includes RO4 and RO8. RO groups 410 and 414 are associated with SSB0, while RO groups 412 and 416 are associated with SSB1. RO1 and RO5 in RO group 410 have the same frequency position. RO2 and RO6 in RO group 412 have the same frequency position. RO3 and RO7 in RO group 414 have the same frequency position. RO4 and RO8 in RO group 416 have the same frequency position.

[0134] like Figure 4C As shown, RO group 418 includes RO1 and RO13. RO group 420 includes RO2 and RO14. RO group 422 includes RO3 and RO15. RO group 424 includes RO4 and RO16. RO groups 418 and 424 are associated with SSB0. RO group 420 is associated with SSB1. RO group 422 is associated with SSB2. RO1 and RO13 in RO group 418 have the same frequency position. RO2 and RO14 in RO group 420 have the same frequency position. RO3 and RO15 in RO group 422 have the same frequency position. RO4 and RO16 in RO group 424 have the same frequency position.

[0135] In some implementations, if Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) is configured for RO and frequency hopping is implemented for PRACH repetition, the UE performs frequency hopping within the RO configured using FDM. In some implementations, the base station configures a frequency offset for frequency hopping. In some implementations, the UE performs frequency hopping from one predefined frequency location to another predefined frequency location.

[0136] In some specific implementations, ROs with larger indexes are repeatedly discarded or dropped for PRACH, so that the number of ROs associated with the same SSB configured using FDM can be the same at different time instances. For example, if there are two ROs at the first time instance and one RO at the second time instance, the RO with the larger index at the first time instance is discarded or dropped, so that there is one RO at both the first and second time instances.

[0137] A time period X corresponding to a PRACH repetition level

[0138] In some specific implementations, each PRACH repetition level corresponds to its own K. Figures 5A to 5C Examples are given of different repetition levels corresponding to different time periods based on specific implementations. For example... Figures 5A to 5C As shown, K1 (configured PRACH repetition count N is 8), K2 (configured PRACH repetition count N is 4), and K3 (configured PRACH repetition count N is 2) are different, and therefore, time period X1, time period X2, and time period X3 are also different.

[0139] In some specific implementations, the temporal starting position of the RO group for each PRACH repetition level is determined based on its own value K (K1, K2, K3). The first starting RO positions in the first time periods 502, 506, and 510 begin from radio frame 0, respectively. The starting RO positions in subsequent time periods 504, 508, and 512 are relative to the first starting RO positions in the first time periods 502, 506, and 510, respectively.

[0140] The starting RO position in subsequent time periods is the first starting RO position + K × association pattern period × C, where C is a natural number. If the number of PRACH repetitions N equals the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L (e.g., 8), then the starting RO position in subsequent time period 504 is the first starting RO position + K1 × association pattern period × C. If the number of PRACH repetitions N is 1 / 2 times the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L (e.g., 4), then the starting RO position in subsequent time period 508 is the first starting RO position + K2 × association pattern period × C. If the number of PRACH repetitions N is 1 / 4 times the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L (e.g., 2), then the starting RO position in subsequent time period 512 is the first starting RO position + K3 × association pattern period × C.

[0141] In some specific implementations, the ROs associated with that particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

[0142] In some implementations, if Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) is configured for ROs and frequency hopping is implemented for PRACH repetition, the UE performs frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM. In some implementations, the base station configures a frequency offset for frequency hopping. In some implementations, the UE performs frequency hopping from one predefined frequency location to another. In some implementations, ROs with larger indices are dropped or discarded for PRACH repetition, such that the number of ROs associated with the same SSB configured using FDM can be the same at different time instances.

[0143] Explicit determination of time period X

[0144] In some implementations, the base station configures K via Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling or System Information Block 1 (SIB1). Therefore, X = K × P is used to determine the time period X, which includes K associated pattern periods P.

[0145] In some specific implementations, this is related to having a single RO group within a time period X (referred to as "implicit determination of time period X"). Figure 3 If the number of PRACH repetitions N is equal to the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L (e.g., 8), then there are multiple RO groups within time period X. Figure 6 Examples are given for several RO groups, such as 602, 604, and 606, based on some specific implementations, targeting the maximum repetition level within the time period X.

[0146] Figure 7 An example procedure is illustrated, based on some specific implementations, for a defined time period X and multiple RO groups within time period X. In some specific implementations, procedure 700 is described as being performed by a UE (such as...). Figure 1 UE 102 or Figure 10 (Execute on UE 1000).

[0147] At position 702, similar to Figure 2 202, UE identifies the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) to RO Association Mode Period P.

[0148] At position 704, similar to Figure 2 In step 204, the UE obtains a specific PRACH repetition number N. This specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to the maximum PRACH repetition number L.

[0149] At position 706, the UE obtains the number K of SSB-RO associated mode cycles within time period X. (Base station (e.g., Figure 1 Base station 104 or Figure 11 The base station 1100 is configured with K, and K can be a natural number.

[0150] At 708, the UE determines the number of RO groups Y within the time period X based on the number K of the SSB-RO association pattern period, the number M of the ROs associated with that specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P, and the number of repetitions N of that specific PRACH. The number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the number of repetitions N of that specific PRACH, for example, 8, 4, or 2.

[0151] In some specific implementations, the number Y of RO groups within a single time period X is determined using equations (3) and (4).

[0152] (3) (4)

[0153] Where M is the number of ROs associated with the same SSB in the associated pattern cycle, and N is the number of repetitions of a specific PRACH. If N is greater than or equal to M, then Z is the number of associated pattern cycles for the RO group. If N is less than M, then Z is the number of RO groups in an associated pattern cycle. Then, the number Y of RO groups within a single time period X is determined based on Z.

[0154] In some specific implementations, the number Y of RO groups within a single time period X is expressed using equation (5): It is determined that the second RO group follows the end of the first RO group.

[0155] A time period X corresponding to all PRACH repetition levels

[0156] In some specific implementations, similar to Figure 3 The base station is configured with K, which is applied to all PRACH repetition levels or counts. That is, in a shared RO scenario, only one time period X is applied to all PRACH repetition levels or counts (e.g., 8, 4, 2). When Y is calculated using equations (3) and (4) or using equation (5), the configured PRACH repetition count N is equal to the maximum PRACH repetition count L, for example, 8. Y is calculated based on N = L (e.g., 8). For example, ,and .

[0157] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is half the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 4), then the UE determines that there are 2 × Y RO groups within the time period X. The number of ROs in each RO group is half × L (e.g., 4).

[0158] If the configured PRACH repetition count N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition count L (e.g., 2), then the UE determines that there are 4 × Y RO groups within the time period X. The number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L (e.g., 2).

[0159] A time period X corresponding to a PRACH repetition level

[0160] In some specific implementations, similar to Figures 5A to 5C Each PRACH repetition level corresponds to its own configured K (K1, K2, K3), and therefore when Y is calculated using equations (3) and (4) or using equation (5), each PRACH repetition level corresponds to its own Y.

[0161] For example, when N = 8, , When N = 4, , When N = 2, , .

[0162] Determining the start position in the time domain

[0163] In some specific implementations, the UE further determines the time-domain start position of each RO group within the time period X. For example... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, at 710, the UE determines the first starting RO position of the first RO group 602 in the first time period 608. Regardless of the value of the PRACH repetition number N, the first starting RO position in the first time period 310 is aligned with radio frame 0.

[0164] At position 712, the UE determines the subsequent starting RO position of the subsequent RO group 604 within the first time period 608. The subsequent starting RO position is the first starting RO + Z × y, where y ≤ Y and y is a natural number. .

[0165] At point 714, the UE determines the starting RO position in the subsequent time period 610 as the first starting RO + Z × (y-1) + K × associated pattern period × C, where y ≤ Y, y is a natural number, and C is a natural number. For example, the starting RO position of RO group 612 is the first starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number (for RO group 612, y = 1 and C = 1). The starting RO position of RO group 614 is the subsequent starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number (for RO group 614, y = 2 and C = 1).

[0166] Determining the starting position of the frequency domain

[0167] In some specific implementations, similar to Figures 4A to 4C In each RO group, the ROs associated with that particular SSB have the same frequency location.

[0168] In some implementations, if Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) is configured for RO and frequency hopping is implemented for PRACH repetition, the UE performs frequency hopping within the RO configured using FDM. In some implementations, the base station configures a frequency offset for frequency hopping. In some implementations, the UE performs frequency hopping from one predefined frequency location to another predefined frequency location.

[0169] In some specific implementations, ROs with larger indexes are repeatedly discarded or dropped for PRACH, so that the number of ROs associated with the same SSB configured using FDM can be the same at different time instances. For example, if there are two ROs at the first time instance and one RO at the second time instance, the RO with the larger index at the first time instance is discarded or dropped, so that there is one RO at both the first and second time instances.

[0170] RO group density control

[0171] In some implementations, the base station controls the RO group density within time period X. In some examples, the UE selects only the first RO group for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within time period X. This density is controlled based on a configured parameter K. In some examples, the UE provides a bitmap indicating one or more RO groups for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within time period X. The bitmap indicates which RO groups in time period X are used for PRACH repetitions based on Y determined using equations (3) and (4) or using equation (5). In some examples, the base station configures the RO group ratio within time period X for PRACH repetitions. For example, if the RO group ratio is configured to 50%, the first 50% of RO groups are valid RO groups for PRACH repetitions. In some examples, the base station configures one or more odd RO groups or one or more even RO groups for multiple repetitions within time period X. For example, odd RO groups within time period X are used for PRACH repetitions, while even RO groups are not used for PRACH repetitions, and vice versa.

[0172] Figure 8 Another example process is illustrated, based on some specific implementations, for a defined time period X and one or more groups of ROs within time period X. In some specific implementations, process 800 is described as being composed of... Figure 1 Base station 104 or Figure 11 The base station 1100 is executing.

[0173] At 802, the base station identifies the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single synchronization signal block (SSB) to RACH timing (RO) association mode period P.

[0174] At position 804, the base station configures a specific PRACH repetition number N. This specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to the maximum PRACH repetition number L. The number of ROs in the RO group is the same as this specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0175] At 806, the base station determines the number K of SSB-RO association pattern periods within time period X based on the number M of ROs associated with a particular SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P and the number N of repetitions of that particular PRACH. K is determined using equation (1), and X is determined using equation (2).

[0176] At 808, the base station uses Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) to configure one or more Remote Routers (ROs). The configured one or more ROs can be used for FDM.

[0177] At 810, the base station implements frequency hopping within one or more ROs configured using FDM. Frequency hopping occurs within one or more ROs configured for FDM.

[0178] Figure 9 Another example process is illustrated, based on some specific implementations, for a defined time period X and multiple RO groups within time period X. In some specific implementations, process 900 is described as being composed of... Figure 1 Base station 104 or Figure 11 The base station 1100 is executing.

[0179] At position 902, similar to Figure 8 802, the base station identifies the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single synchronization signal block (SSB) to RO association mode period P.

[0180] At position 904, similar to Figure 8 For example, in case 804, the base station is configured with a specific number of PRACH repetitions N. This specific number of PRACH repetitions N is less than or equal to the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L.

[0181] At position 906, the number of SSB-RO association mode cycles within the base station configuration time period X is K.

[0182] At 908, the base station determines the number of RO groups Y within the time period X based on the number K of the SSB-RO association pattern period, the number M of the ROs associated with that specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern period P, and the number N of the specific PRACH repetitions. The number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the number N of the specific PRACH repetitions, for example, 8, 4, or 2.

[0183] In some specific implementations, the number Y of RO groups within a single time period X is determined using equations (3) and (4). In some specific implementations, the number Y of RO groups within a single time period X is determined using equation (5). The second RO group follows the end of the first RO group.

[0184] At 910, the base station performs density control of the RO groups. In some examples, the base station selects only the first RO group for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within the time period X. This density is controlled based on a configured parameter K. In some examples, the base station provides a bitmap indicating one or more RO groups for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within the time period X. The bitmap indicates which RO groups in the time period X are used for PRACH repetitions based on Y determined using equations (3) and (4) or using equation (5). In some examples, the base station configures the RO group ratio within the time period X for PRACH repetitions. In some examples, the base station configures one or more odd-numbered RO groups or one or more even-numbered RO groups for multiple repetitions within the time period X.

[0185] Figure 10 This is a block diagram based on some specific implementation examples of UEs. UE 1000 can be similar to... Figure 1 The UE 102 is essentially interchangeable with it.

[0186] UE 1000 can be any mobile or non-mobile computing device, such as, for example, mobile phones, computers, tablets, industrial wireless sensors (e.g., microphones, carbon dioxide sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, thermometers, motion sensors, accelerometers, laser scanners, fluid level sensors, stock sensors, voltmeters / ammeters, actuators, etc.), video surveillance / monitoring devices (e.g., cameras, video cameras, etc.), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches), and loosely coupled IoT devices.

[0187] UE 1000 may include a processor 1002, RF interface circuitry 1004, memory / storage device 1006, user interface 1008, sensor 1010, drive circuitry 1012, power management integrated circuit (PMIC) 1014, antenna structure 1016, and battery 1018. The components of UE 1000 may be implemented as integrated circuits (ICs), portions of such integrated circuits, discrete electronic devices or other modules, logic components, hardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof. Figure 10 The block diagram is intended to show a high-level view of some of the components of the UE 1000. However, some of the components shown may be omitted, additional components may be present, and different arrangements of the components shown may occur in other specific implementations.

[0188] The components of UE 1000 can be coupled to various other components via one or more interconnects 1020, which can represent any type of interface, input / output, bus (local, system, or extended), transmit line, trace, optical connection, etc., allowing various circuit components (on common or different chips or chipsets) to interact with each other.

[0189] Processor 1002 may include processor circuitry, such as, for example, baseband processor circuitry (BB) 1022A, central processing unit circuitry (CPU) 1022B, and graphics processing unit circuitry (GPU) 1022C. Processor 1002 may include any type of circuitry or processor circuitry that executes or otherwise operates computer-executable instructions (such as program code, software modules, or functional procedures from memory / storage device 1006) to cause UE 1000 to perform the operations described herein.

[0190] In some implementations, the baseband processor circuit 1022A can access the communication protocol stack 1024 in the memory / storage device 1006 to communicate over a 3GPP-compliant network. Typically, the baseband processor circuit 1022A can access the communication protocol stack to perform user plane functions at the PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, SDAP, and PDU layers; and control plane functions at the PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, RRC, and non-access layer layers. In some implementations, PHY layer operations may be additionally / optionally performed by components of the RF interface circuit 1004. The baseband processor circuit 1022A can generate or process baseband signals or waveforms carrying information in a 3GPP-compliant network. In some implementations, the waveform used for NR may be based on cyclic prefix OFDM "CP-OFDM" in the uplink or downlink, and Discrete Fourier Transform Extended OFDM "DFT-S-OFDM" in the uplink.

[0191] Memory / storage device 1006 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, including instructions (e.g., communication protocol stack 1024) that can be executed by one or more processors in processor 1002 to cause UE 1000 to perform the various operations described herein. Memory / storage device 1006 includes any type of volatile or non-volatile memory that can be distributed throughout UE 1000. In some specific implementations, some memory / storage devices in memory / storage device 1006 may be located on processor 1002 itself (e.g., L1 cache and L2 cache), while other memory / storage devices 1006 may be located external to processor 1002 but accessible via a memory interface. Memory / storage device 1006 may include any suitable volatile or non-volatile memory, such as, but not limited to, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid-state memory, or any other type of memory device technology.

[0192] The RF interface circuit 1004 may include transceiver circuitry and a radio frequency front-end module (RFEM) that allows the UE 1000 to communicate with other devices via a radio access network. The RF interface circuit 1004 may include various components arranged in the transmit or receive path. These components may include, for example, switches, mixers, amplifiers, filters, synthesizer circuitry, control circuitry, etc.

[0193] In the receiving path, the RFEM can receive the radiated signal from the air interface via antenna structure 1016, and continue to filter and amplify the signal (using a low-noise amplifier). This signal can be provided to the receiver of the transceiver, which down-converts the RF signal into a baseband signal, which is then provided to the baseband processor of processor 1002.

[0194] In the transmission path, the transceiver's transmitter up-converts the baseband signal received from the baseband processor and provides the RF signal to the RFEM. The RFEM amplifies the RF signal using a power amplifier before it is radiated across the air interface via antenna 1016.

[0195] In various specific implementations, the RF interface circuit 1004 can be configured to transmit / receive signals in a manner compatible with NR access technology.

[0196] Antenna 1016 may include antenna elements to convert electrical signals into radio waves for propagation through the air and to convert received radio waves back into electrical signals. These antenna elements may be arranged in one or more antenna panels. Antenna 1016 may have omnidirectional, directional, or combinations thereof antenna panels to enable beamforming and multiple-input multiple-output communication. Antenna 1016 may include microstrip antennas, printed antennas fabricated on the surface of one or more printed circuit boards, patch antennas, phased array antennas, etc. Antenna 1016 may have one or more panels designed for a specific frequency band, including those in FRI or FR2.

[0197] User interface 1008 includes various input / output (I / O) devices designed to enable users to interact with UE 1000. User interface 1008 includes input device circuitry and output device circuitry. Input device circuitry includes any physical or virtual components for accepting input, particularly including one or more physical or virtual buttons (e.g., a reset button), a physical keyboard, keypad, mouse, touchpad, touchscreen, microphone, scanner, or headset, etc. Output device circuitry includes any physical or virtual components for displaying information or otherwise conveying information (such as sensor readings, actuator positions, or other similar information). Output device circuitry may include any number or combination of audio or visual displays, particularly including one or more simple visual outputs / indicators (e.g., binary status indicators such as light-emitting diodes "LEDs," and multi-character visual outputs), or more complex outputs such as display devices or touchscreens (e.g., liquid crystal displays "LCDs," LED displays, quantum dot displays, projectors, etc.), wherein the output of characters, graphics, multimedia objects, etc., is generated or produced through the operation of UE 1000.

[0198] Sensor 1010 may include devices, modules, or subsystems intended to detect events or changes in their environment and transmit information (sensor data) about the detected events to other devices, modules, subsystems, etc. Examples of such sensors include, in particular: inertial measurement units including accelerometers, gyroscopes, or magnetometers; microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) or nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) including triaxial accelerometers, triaxial gyroscopes, or magnetometers; level sensors; flow sensors; temperature sensors (e.g., thermistors); pressure sensors; barometric pressure sensors; gravimeters; altimeters; image capture devices (e.g., cameras or lensless aperture sensors); light detection and ranging sensors; proximity sensors (e.g., infrared radiation detectors, etc.); depth sensors; ambient light sensors; ultrasonic transceivers; microphones or other similar audio capture devices; and so on.

[0199] The driving circuit 1012 may include software and hardware elements that operate to control a specific device embedded in, attached to, or otherwise communicatively coupled to the UE 1000. The driving circuit 1012 may include various drivers that allow other components to interact with or control various input / output (I / O) devices that may exist within or be connected to the UE 1000. For example, the driving circuit 1012 may include: a display driver for controlling and allowing access to a display device; a touchscreen driver for controlling and allowing access to a touchscreen interface; a sensor driver for obtaining sensor readings from the sensor circuit 1010 and controlling and allowing access to the sensor circuit 1010; a driver for obtaining actuator positioning of an electromechanical component or controlling and allowing access to an electromechanical component; a camera driver for controlling and allowing access to an embedded image capture device; and an audio driver for controlling and allowing access to one or more audio devices.

[0200] The PMIC 1014 manages the power supplied to various components of the UE 1000. Specifically, for the processor 1002, the PMIC 1014 controls power source selection, voltage scaling, battery charging, or DC-DC conversion.

[0201] In some implementations, the PMIC 1014 may control or otherwise become part of various power-saving mechanisms of the UE 1000, including DRX as discussed herein. The battery 1018 may power the UE 1000, but in some examples, the UE 1000 may be mounted or deployed in a fixed location and may have a power source coupled to the grid. The battery 1018 may be a lithium-ion battery, a metal-air battery, such as a zinc-air battery, an aluminum-air battery, a lithium-air battery, etc. In some implementations, such as in vehicle-based applications, the battery 1018 may be a typical lead-acid automotive battery.

[0202] Figure 11 It is a block diagram of an example access node based on some specific implementations. Figure 11 An example of an access node 1100 (e.g., a base station or gNB) according to some specific implementation is shown. Access node 1100 may be similar to... Figure 1 The base station 104 is essentially interchangeable with the base station. The access node 1100 may include a processor 1102, an RF interface circuit 1104, a core network (CN) interface circuit 1106, a memory / storage device circuit 1108, and an antenna structure 1110.

[0203] Components of access node 1100 can be coupled to various other components via one or more interconnects 1112. Processor 1102, RF interface circuitry 1104, memory / storage device circuitry 1108 (including communication protocol stack 1114), antenna structure 1110, and interconnects 1112 can be similar to those for... Figure 10 Similar named components are shown and described. For example, processor 1102 may include processor circuitry such as, for example, baseband processor circuitry (BB) 1116A, central processing unit circuitry (CPU) 1116B, and graphics processing unit circuitry (GPU) 1116C.

[0204] The CN interface circuit 1106 can provide connectivity to a core network (e.g., a 5GC using a 5G core network (5GC) compatible network interface protocol (such as Carrier Ethernet) or some other suitable protocol). Network connectivity can be provided to / from access node 1100 via fiber optic or wireless backhaul. The CN interface circuit 1106 may include one or more dedicated processors or FPGAs for communicating using one or more of the aforementioned protocols. In some implementations, the CN interface circuit 1106 may include multiple controllers for providing connectivity to other networks using the same or different protocols.

[0205] As used herein, the terms "access node," "access point," etc., can describe equipment that provides radio baseband functionality for data and / or voice connectivity between a network and one or more users. These access nodes can be referred to as BS, gNB, RAN node, eNB, NodeB, RSU, TRxP, or TRP, etc., and can include ground stations (e.g., ground access points) or satellite stations that provide coverage within a geographic area (e.g., a cell). As used herein, the terms "NG RAN node," etc., can refer to access node 1100 (e.g., gNB) operating in an NR or 5G system, and the terms "E-UTRAN node," etc., can refer to access node 1100 (e.g., eNB) operating in an LTE or 4G system. Depending on various specific implementations, access node 1100 can be implemented as one or more of dedicated physical equipment such as macro cell base stations and / or low-power (LP) base stations for providing smaller coverage areas, smaller user capacity, or higher bandwidth compared to macro cells.

[0206] In some implementations, all or part of the access node 1100 may be implemented as one or more software entities running on a server computer as part of a virtual network, which may be referred to as CRAN and / or Virtual Baseband Unit Pool (vBBUP). In these implementations, CRAN or vBBUP may implement RAN function splitting, such as PDCP splitting, where the RRC and PDCP layers are operated by CRAN / vBBUP and other L2 protocol entities are operated by access node 1100; MAC / PHY splitting, where the RRC, PDCP, RLC, and MAC layers are operated by CRAN / vBBUP and the PHY layer is operated by access node 1100; or “lower PHY” splitting, where the upper part of the RRC, PDCP, RLC, MAC, and PHY layers is operated by CRAN / vBBUP and the lower part of the PHY layer is operated by access node 1100.

[0207] In a V2X scenario, the access node 1100 can be an RSU or act as an RSU. The terms "roadside unit" or "RSU" can refer to any traffic infrastructure entity used for V2X communication. An RSU can be implemented in or by a suitable RAN node or a stationary (or relatively stationary) UE, wherein an RSU implemented in or by a UE can be referred to as a "UE-type RSU", an RSU implemented in or by an eNB can be referred to as an "eNB-type RSU", an RSU implemented in or by a gNB can be referred to as a "gNB-type RSU", and so on.

[0208] For ease of description, various components may be described as performing one or more tasks. Such descriptions should be interpreted as including the phrase "configured to". Statements describing a component as configured to perform one or more tasks are explicitly intended not to invoke the interpretation of 35 USC § 112(f) for that component.

[0209] For one or more specific embodiments, at least one of the components illustrated in one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to perform one or more operations, techniques, processes, or methods described in the Embodiments section below. For example, the baseband circuitry described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more examples below. As another example, circuitry associated with the UE, base station, network element, etc., described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more embodiments described in the Embodiments section below.

[0210] Unless otherwise expressly stated, any embodiment described above may be combined with any other embodiment (or combination of embodiments). The foregoing description of one or more specific embodiments is illustrative and descriptive, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. In view of the teachings above, modifications and variations are possible, or modifications and variations may be derived from practice of various specific embodiments.

[0211] While the specific embodiments described above have been described in considerable detail, many variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the disclosure is fully understood. It is intended that the following claims be construed as encompassing all such variations and modifications.

[0212] As is widely recognized, the use of personally identifiable information should comply with privacy policies and practices that are generally accepted to meet or exceed industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly explained to users.

[0213] For one or more embodiments, at least one of the components illustrated in one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to perform one or more operations, techniques, processes, or methods described in the Embodiments section below. For example, the baseband circuitry described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more examples below. Similarly, circuitry associated with the UE, base station, network element, etc., described above in conjunction with one or more of the foregoing figures may be configured to operate according to one or more examples shown below.

[0214] Example

[0215] Further exemplary implementations are provided in the following sections.

[0216] Example 1 includes one or more processors of a user equipment (UE) configured to perform operations for transmitting multiple physical random access channels (PRACHs), the operations including: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single synchronization block (SSB) to RACH timing (RO) association pattern period P; obtaining a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; and determining the number K of SSB to RO association pattern periods within a time period X based on the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in a single SSB to RO association pattern period P and the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0217] Example 2 is one or more processors according to Example 1, wherein And X = K × P.

[0218] Example 3 is based on one or more processors according to Example 1, wherein the operation further includes: obtaining one or more RO groups within the time period X, wherein at least one RO group is associated with the specific PRACH repetition number N, and wherein the number of ROs in the at least one RO group is the same as the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0219] Example 4 is one or more processors according to Example 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining a single RO group within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in the single RO group is the maximum PRACH repetition number L.

[0220] Example 5 is one or more processors according to Example 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0221] Example 6 is one or more processors according to Example 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: obtaining four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0222] Example 7 is one or more processors according to Example 3, wherein K = 1 when the single SSB to RO associated mode period P includes at least L ROs.

[0223] Example 8 is based on one or more processors as described in Example 7, wherein when K = 1, the number of RO groups within the time period X is .

[0224] Example 9 is based on one or more processors as described in Example 3, and the operation further includes: determining a first starting RO position within a first time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a second starting RO position within a subsequent time period X, wherein the second starting RO position is the first starting RO position + K × associated mode period × C, where C is a natural number.

[0225] Example 10 is one or more processors according to Example 9, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in the second RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ½ × L × RO.

[0226] Example 11 is based on one or more processors according to Example 9, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in a subsequent RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2 or 3.

[0227] Example 12 is one or more processors according to Example 3, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any particular PRACH repetition number.

[0228] Example 13 is one or more processors according to Example 3, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is associated with the specific number of PRACH repetitions N, wherein different N correspond to different K.

[0229] Example 14 is one or more processors according to Example 3, wherein the ROs associated with the particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency position.

[0230] Example 15 is one or more processors according to Example 3, the operation further comprising: obtaining one or more ROs configured using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0231] Example 16 is one or more processors according to Example 15, wherein the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0232] Example 17 is one or more processors according to Example 16, the operation further comprising: discarding ROs with larger indices at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the specific SSB is the same.

[0233] Example 18 may include a method for performing the operation according to any one of Examples 1 to 17.

[0234] Example 19 may include a user equipment (UE) comprising: one or more processors; and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform any one of Examples 1 to 17.

[0235] Example 20 includes one or more processors of a user equipment (UE) configured to perform operations for transmitting multiple physical random access channels (PRACHs), the operations including: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single synchronization block (SSB) to RACH timing (RO) association pattern period P; obtaining a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; obtaining the number K of SSB to RO association pattern periods within a time period X; and determining the number Y of RO groups within the time period X based on the number K of SSB to RO association pattern periods, the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in a single SSB to RO association pattern period P, and the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0236] Example 21 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein And X = K × P.

[0237] Example 22 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated mode cycles is obtained by radio resource control (RRC) signaling or system information block 1 (SIB1).

[0238] Example 23 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 2 × Y within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0239] Example 24 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 4 × Y within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0240] Example 25 is based on one or more processors according to Example 20, the operation further comprising: determining a first starting RO position of a first RO group within the time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a subsequent starting RO position of a subsequent RO group within the time period X, wherein the subsequent starting RO position is the first starting RO + Z × y, where y ≤ Y and y is a natural number, and .

[0241] Example 26 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any particular number of PRACH repetitions.

[0242] Example 27 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is associated with the specific number of PRACH repetitions N, wherein different N correspond to different K.

[0243] Example 28 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein the ROs associated with the particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency position.

[0244] Example 29 is one or more processors according to Example 20, the operation further comprising: obtaining one or more ROs configured using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0245] Example 30 is one or more processors according to Example 29, wherein the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0246] Example 31 is one or more processors according to Example 30, the operation further comprising: discarding ROs with larger indices at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the specific SSB is the same.

[0247] Example 32 is one or more processors according to Example 20, the operation further including: performing density control of the RO group.

[0248] Example 33 is based on one or more processors according to Example 32, and the operation further includes: selecting only the first RO group of multiple repetitions for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0249] Example 34 is one or more processors according to Example 32, the operation further comprising: providing a bitmap indicating one or more RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0250] Example 35 is based on one or more processors according to Example 32, the operation further comprising: obtaining the ratio of multiple repetitions of the RO group for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0251] Example 36 is based on one or more processors according to Example 32, and the operation further includes: obtaining one or more odd-numbered RO groups or one or more even-numbered RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0252] Example 37 is one or more processors according to Example 20, wherein .

[0253] Example 38 may include a method for performing the operations according to any one of Examples 20 to 37.

[0254] Example 39 may include a user equipment (UE) comprising: one or more processors; and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform any one of Examples 20 to 37.

[0255] Example 40 includes one or more processors of a base station configured to perform operations for transmitting multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs), the operations including: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) Association Pattern Period P; configuring a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; and determining the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods within a time period X based on the number M of ROs and the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0256] Example 41 is one or more processors according to Example 40, wherein And X = K × P.

[0257] Example 42 is one or more processors according to Example 40, the operation further comprising: configuring one or more RO groups within the time period X, wherein at least one RO group is associated with the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the number of ROs in the at least one RO group is the same as the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0258] Example 43 is one or more processors according to Example 40, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring a single RO group within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in the single RO group is the maximum PRACH repetition number L.

[0259] Example 44 is one or more processors according to Example 40, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0260] Example 45 is one or more processors according to Example 40, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: configuring four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0261] Example 46 is one or more processors according to Example 42, wherein K = 1 when the single SSB to RO associated pattern period P includes at least L ROs.

[0262] Example 47 is based on one or more processors as described in Example 46, wherein when K = 1, the number of RO groups within the time period X is .

[0263] Example 48 is based on one or more processors according to Example 42, the operation further comprising: determining a first starting RO position within a first time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a second starting RO position within a subsequent time period X, wherein the second starting RO position is the first starting RO position + K × associated pattern period × C, where C is a natural number.

[0264] Example 49 is one or more processors according to Example 48, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in the second RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ½ × L × RO.

[0265] Example 50 is one or more processors according to Example 48, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: providing four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L; and determining a third starting RO position in a subsequent RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2 or 3.

[0266] Example 51 is one or more processors according to Example 42, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any particular number of PRACH repetitions.

[0267] Example 52 is one or more processors according to Example 42, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is associated with the specific number of PRACH repetitions N, wherein different N correspond to different K.

[0268] Example 53 is one or more processors according to Example 42, wherein the ROs associated with the particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency position.

[0269] Example 54 is one or more processors according to Example 42, the operation further comprising: configuring one or more ROs using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0270] Example 55 is one or more processors according to Example 54, wherein the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0271] Example 56 is one or more processors according to Example 55, the operation further comprising: discarding ROs with larger indices at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the specific SSB is the same.

[0272] Example 57 may include a method for performing the operation according to any one of Examples 40 to 56.

[0273] Example 58 may include a base station comprising: one or more processors; and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform any one of Examples 40 to 56.

[0274] Example 59 includes one or more processors of a base station configured to perform operations for transmitting multiple Physical Random Access Channels (PRACHs), the operations including: identifying the number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single Synchronization Block (SSB) to RACH Timing (RO) Association Pattern Period P; configuring a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to a maximum PRACH repetition number L; configuring the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods within a time period X; and determining the number Y of RO groups within the time period X based on the number K of SSB to RO Association Pattern Periods, the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in a single SSB to RO Association Pattern Period P, and the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is equal to the specific PRACH repetition number N.

[0275] Example 60 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein And X = K × P.

[0276] Example 61 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated mode cycles is configured by radio resource control (RRC) signaling or system information block 1 (SIB1).

[0277] Example 62 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ½ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 2 × Y within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

[0278] Example 63 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition number L, and the operation further includes: determining the number of RO groups 4 × Y within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

[0279] Example 64 is based on one or more processors according to Example 59, the operation further comprising: determining a first starting RO position of a first RO group within the time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; and determining a subsequent starting RO position of a subsequent RO group within the time period X, wherein the subsequent starting RO position is the first starting RO + Z × y, where y ≤ Y and y is a natural number, and .

[0280] Example 65 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any particular number of PRACH repetitions.

[0281] Example 66 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is associated with the specific number of PRACH repetitions N, wherein different N correspond to different K.

[0282] Example 67 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein the ROs associated with the particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency position.

[0283] Example 68 is one or more processors according to Example 59, the operation further comprising: configuring one or more ROs using frequency division multiplexing (FDM); and implementing frequency hopping within the ROs configured using FDM.

[0284] Example 69 is one or more processors according to Example 68, wherein the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

[0285] Example 70 is one or more processors according to Example 69, the operation further comprising: discarding ROs with large indexes at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the specific SSB is the same.

[0286] Example 71 is one or more processors according to Example 59, the operation further including: performing density control of the RO group.

[0287] Example 72 is based on one or more processors according to Example 71, and the operation further includes: selecting only the first RO group of multiple repetitions for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0288] Example 73 is one or more processors according to Example 71, the operation further comprising: providing a bitmap indicating one or more RO groups that are repeated multiple times for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0289] Example 74 is based on one or more processors according to Example 71, and the operation further includes: configuring the ratio of multiple repetitions of the RO group for PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0290] Example 75 is based on one or more processors according to Example 71, and the operation further includes: configuring one or more odd-numbered RO groups or one or more even-numbered RO groups for multiple repetitions of PRACH transmission within the time period X.

[0291] Example 76 is one or more processors according to Example 59, wherein .

[0292] Example 77 may include a method for performing the operation according to any one of Examples 59 to 76.

[0293] Example 78 may include a base station comprising: one or more processors; and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform any one of Examples 59 to 76.

[0294] Example 79 may include an apparatus comprising a logic component, module, or circuitry for performing one or more elements of the operations described or associated with any of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76, or any other operations or processes described herein.

[0295] Example 80 may include the methods, techniques or processes, or parts thereof, described or associated with the operation according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76.

[0296] Example 81 may include an apparatus comprising: one or more processors and one or more computer-readable media, the one or more computer-readable media including instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a method, technique, or process, or part or component thereof, of the operations described or associated with any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76.

[0297] Example 82 may include a signal or part or component thereof described or associated with any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76.

[0298] Example 83 may include datagrams, information elements (IEs), packets, frames, segments, PDUs, or messages, or portions or components thereof, as described or otherwise in connection with any of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76, or otherwise described in this disclosure.

[0299] Example 84 may include a data-encoded signal or part or component thereof as described or associated with any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76, or otherwise described in this disclosure.

[0300] Example 85 may include a signal or part thereof encoded as a datagram, IE, packet, frame, segment, PDU or message, or otherwise described in this disclosure, as described or associated with any of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76.

[0301] Example 86 may include an electromagnetic signal carrying computer-readable instructions, wherein execution of the computer-readable instructions by one or more processors will cause the one or more processors to perform the methods, techniques or processes or parts thereof described or associated with the operations according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76.

[0302] Example 87 may include a computer program comprising instructions, wherein execution of the program by a processing element will cause the processing element to perform a method, technique, or process, or part thereof, described or associated with the operations of any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76. The operations or actions performed by the instructions executed by the processing element may include the operations of any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76.

[0303] Example 88 may include signals in a wireless network as shown and described herein.

[0304] Example 89 may include methods for communicating in a wireless network as shown and described herein.

[0305] Example 90 may include a system for providing wireless communication as shown and described herein. Operations or actions performed by said system may include those according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76.

[0306] Example 91 may include a device for providing wireless communication as shown and described herein. Operations or actions performed by said device may include those according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56, and 59 to 76.

[0307] The previously described operations according to embodiments 1 to 17, 20 to 37, 40 to 56 and 59 to 76 can be implemented using a computer-implemented method; a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions to perform the computer-implemented method; and a computer system including a computer memory interoperably coupled to a hardware processor configured to perform the computer-implemented method or instructions stored on the non-transitory computer-readable medium.

Claims

1. One or more processors of a user equipment (UE), said one or more processors being configured to perform operations for transmitting multiple physical random access channels (PRACH), said operations including: The number M of ROs associated with a specific SSB in a single synchronization signal block (SSB) to RACH timing (RO) associated mode cycle P; Obtain a specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is less than or equal to the maximum PRACH repetition number L; and The number of SSB-RO association pattern cycles K within a time period X is determined based on the number M of ROs associated with the specific SSB in a single SSB-RO association pattern cycle P and the number of specific PRACH repetitions N.

2. The one or more processors according to claim 1, wherein And X = K × P.

3. The processor of claim 1 or more, wherein the operation further comprises: Obtain one or more RO groups within the time period X, wherein at least one RO group is associated with the specific PRACH repetition count N. The number of ROs in at least one RO group is the same as the number of times N is repeated for the specific PRACH.

4. The processor of claim 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is the maximum PRACH repetition number L, the operation further comprising: Obtain a single RO group within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in the single RO group is the maximum number of PRACH repetitions L.

5. The processor of claim 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is half the maximum PRACH repetition number L, the operation further comprising: Obtain two RO groups within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L.

6. The processor of claim 1, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ times the maximum PRACH repetition number L, the operation further comprising: Obtain four RO groups within the time period X, where the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L.

7. One or more processors according to claim 3, wherein K = 1 when the single SSB to RO associated mode period P includes at least L ROs.

8. The processor according to claim 7, wherein when K = 1, the number of RO groups within the time period X is .

9. The processor of claim 3 or more, wherein the operation further comprises: Determine the first starting RO position within the first time period X, wherein the first starting RO position is aligned with radio frame 0; as well as Determine the second starting RO position within the subsequent time period X, wherein the second starting RO position is the first starting RO position + K × association pattern period × C, where C is a natural number.

10. The processor of claim 9, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is half the maximum PRACH repetition number L, the operation further comprising: Provide two RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ½ × L; as well as Determine the third starting RO position in the second RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ½ × L × RO.

11. The processor of claim 9, wherein the specific PRACH repetition number N is ¼ of the maximum PRACH repetition number L, the operation further comprising: Provide four RO groups within the time period X, wherein the number of ROs in each RO group is ¼ × L; as well as Determine the third starting RO position in the subsequent RO group within the first time period X, wherein the third starting RO position is the first starting RO position + ¼ × L × RO × m, where m = 1, 2 or 3.

12. The one or more processors according to claim 3, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is the same for any particular PRACH repetition number.

13. One or more processors according to claim 3, wherein the number K of SSB to RO associated pattern cycles is associated with the specific PRACH repetition number N, wherein different N correspond to different K.

14. One or more processors according to claim 3, wherein the ROs associated with the particular SSB in each RO group have the same frequency location.

15. The processor of claim 3 or more, wherein the operation further comprises: Obtain one or more ROs configured using Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM); as well as Frequency hopping is implemented within the RO configured using FDM.

16. One or more processors according to claim 15, wherein the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the particular SSB is the same at different time instances.

17. The processor of claim 16, wherein the operation further comprises: Drop ROs with large indexes at a specific time instance, such that the number of ROs configured using FDM and associated with the specific SSB is the same.

18. A method for performing the operation according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A user equipment (UE), the user equipment (UE) comprising: One or more processors; and One or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more processors to perform the operations claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17.

Images