Method and apparatus for managing mobility in wireless communication system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. Distance events for an earth moving cell are introduced for event-triggered measurement reporting. A distance event is triggered when a first distance to a configured serving cell reference location is greater than a first threshold and a second distance to a configured neighbor cell reference location is less than a second threshold. A user equipment (UE) may determine a real-time reference location based on a reference time (epoch time), a reference location, and ephemeris information associated with a serving cell and a neighboring cell. And broadcasting the ephemeris, the reference position and the reference time of the serving cell in the SIB19. Ephemeris, reference positions and reference times of neighboring cells are configured in the measurement object configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to wireless communication systems, and more specifically to mobility in wireless communication systems, for example, but not limited to. Background Technology

[0002] 5G mobile communication technology defines a wide frequency band, enabling high transmission rates and new services. It can be implemented not only in "sub-6GHz" bands such as 3.5GHz, but also in "above-6GHz" bands, including 28GHz and 39GHz, known as mmWave. Furthermore, the implementation of 6G mobile communication technology (referred to as "super 5G systems") in terahertz (THz) bands (e.g., the 95GHz to 3THz band) is being considered to achieve transmission rates fifty times faster than 5G and ultra-low latency one-tenth that of 5G.

[0003] At the outset of 5G mobile communication technology development, standardization was underway for the following to support services and meet performance requirements associated with enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), and massive machine-type communication (mMTC): beamforming and massive MIMO for mitigating radio wave path loss and increasing radio wave transmission distance in millimeter waves (mmWave); support for a set of fundamental parameters (e.g., operating multiple subcarrier spacings) for dynamic operation that effectively utilizes millimeter wave resources and time slot formats; initial access technologies for supporting multi-beam transmission and broadband; definition and operation of the bandwidth portion (BWP); new channel coding methods such as LDPC (low-density parity-check) codes for large data transmissions and polar codes for highly reliable transmission of control information; L2 preprocessing; and network slicing for providing dedicated networks for specific services.

[0004] Currently, given the services that 5G mobile communication technology needs to support, discussions are underway regarding improvements and performance enhancements to the initial 5G mobile communication technology, and physical layer standardization already exists for technologies such as: V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything), used to assist autonomous vehicles in making driving decisions based on information sent by the vehicle about its location and status, and to enhance user convenience; NR-U (New Radio Unlicensed), designed to comply with the system operation requirements related to various regulations in unlicensed bands; NR UE power saving; Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), which is UE-satellite direct communication used to provide coverage in areas where communication with terrestrial networks is unavailable; and positioning.

[0005] Furthermore, standardization is underway in air interface architecture / protocols for technologies such as: Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to support new services through interoperability and convergence with other industries; IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul) to provide nodes for network service area extension by supporting wireless backhaul and access links in an integrated manner; mobility enhancements, including conditional handover and DAPS (Dual Active Stack) handover; and two-step random access to simplify random access procedures (2-step random access channel (RACH) for NR). Standardization is also underway in system architecture / services for: 5G baseline architecture (e.g., service-based architecture or service-based interface) to combine Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies; and Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) for receiving services based on UE location.

[0006] With the commercialization of 5G mobile communication systems, the number of connected devices will increase exponentially, necessitating enhanced functionality and performance of 5G mobile communication systems and integrated operation of connected devices. To this end, new research is planned related to: extended reality (XR) for effectively supporting AR (Augmented Reality), VR (Virtual Reality), MR (Mixed Reality), etc.; improving 5G performance and reducing complexity by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML); AI service support; metaverse service support; and drone communication.

[0007] Furthermore, this development of 5G mobile communication systems will not only serve as the foundation for developing new waveforms for providing coverage in the terahertz band of 6G mobile communication technology, multi-antenna transmission technologies (such as full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and massive MIMO), metamaterial-based lenses and antennas for improving terahertz band signal coverage, high-dimensional spatial multiplexing technologies using OAM (orbital angular momentum), and RIS (reconfigurable smart surfaces), but also as the foundation for developing full-duplex technologies to improve the frequency efficiency of 6G mobile communication technology and improve system networks, AI-based communication technologies to implement system optimization by leveraging satellites and AI (artificial intelligence) from the design stage and internalizing end-to-end AI support capabilities, and next-generation distributed computing technologies to implement services with complexity levels exceeding the operational capabilities of UEs by utilizing ultra-high-performance communication and computing resources.

[0008] Mobility management operations, including network handover, represent a critical aspect of any wireless communication system. These systems include, for example, LTE and 5G New Radio (NR), as well as upcoming technologies currently being termed "6G." Mobility is currently controlled by the network with the assistance of the User Equipment (UE) to maintain optimal connection quality. The network can hand over the UE to a target cell with excellent signal quality.

[0009] Enhanced broadband mechanisms requiring high speed and low latency necessitate more complex handover mechanisms. Therefore, Conditional Handover (CHO) and, separately, Layer 1 / Layer 2 triggered Mobility Detection (LTM) have been introduced to provide additional conditions for specific networks or their slices, thereby improving handover speed. However, the use of these enhancements introduces its own latency, at least because the network needs to exchange some data with the UE during the handover process. Therefore, the initiation of network-triggered proactive handover introduces its own latency, signaling overhead, and downtime.

[0010] The descriptions set forth in the Background section should not be assumed to be prior art simply because they are set forth in the Background section. The Background section may describe aspects or embodiments of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical issues

[0012] This disclosure relates to the control of multiple reference signal ports.

[0013] Solution to the problem

[0014] One aspect of this disclosure provides a user equipment (UE) for facilitating communication in a wireless network. The UE includes a processor and a transceiver operatively coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to determine whether entry conditions are met. The entry conditions are: i) whether a first distance between the UE and a serving cell's mobile reference location is greater than a first threshold, and ii) whether a second distance between the UE and a neighboring cell's mobile reference location is less than a second threshold. The processor is configured to generate a measurement report based on the determination that the entry conditions are met. The transceiver is configured to send the measurement report to the serving cell.

[0015] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to determine whether a departure condition is met, wherein the departure condition is: i) whether a first distance between the UE and the serving cell's mobile reference location is less than a first threshold, or ii) whether a second distance between the UE and the neighboring cell's mobile reference location is greater than a second threshold.

[0016] In some embodiments, the transceiver is further configured to receive a system information block from the serving cell, the system information block including a first reference position, a first ephemeris information, and a first epoch time of the serving cell.

[0017] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to determine the serving cell's mobile reference location based on a first reference location, first ephemeris information, and a first epoch time.

[0018] In some embodiments, the transceiver is further configured to receive a measurement object configuration from the serving cell, the measurement object configuration including a second reference position of a neighboring cell, a second ephemeris information, and a second epoch time.

[0019] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to determine the neighboring cell movement reference position based on the second reference position, the second ephemeris information, and the second epoch time.

[0020] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to determine that an entry condition is met when a first entry condition and a second entry condition are satisfied. First entry condition:

[0021]

[0022] in, It is the first distance. It is a lag parameter, and This is the first threshold. The second entry condition:

[0023]

[0024] in, It is the second distance. It is a lag parameter, and It is the second threshold.

[0025] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to determine that a departure condition is met when at least one of a first departure condition and a second departure condition is satisfied. First departure condition:

[0026]

[0027] in, It is the first distance. It is a lag parameter, and The first threshold. The second exit condition:

[0028]

[0029] in, It is the second distance. It is a lag parameter, and It is the second threshold.

[0030] In some embodiments, the measurement object configuration is configured by the serving cell for neighboring cells served by non-terrestrial network earthmobile cells.

[0031] In some embodiments, the transceiver is also configured to receive a configuration indicating a first threshold and a second threshold from the serving cell.

[0032] One aspect of this disclosure provides a base station (BS) for facilitating communication in a wireless network. The BS includes a processor and a transceiver operatively coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to generate a configuration that triggers a measurement report event, the configuration indicating a first threshold and a second threshold associated with entry conditions for the measurement report event, wherein the entry conditions are: i) whether a first distance between a user equipment (UE) and a serving cell mobile reference location is greater than the first threshold, and ii) whether a second distance between the UE and a neighboring cell mobile reference location is less than the second threshold. The transceiver is configured to send the configuration to the UE.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first threshold and the second threshold are associated with the departure conditions of the measurement reporting event, and the departure conditions are: i) whether the first distance between the UE and the serving cell's mobile reference location is lower than the first threshold, and ii) whether the second distance between the UE and the neighboring cell's mobile reference location is higher than the second threshold.

[0034] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to generate a system information block, the system information block including a first reference location, a first ephemeris information and a first epoch time for a serving cell associated with a base station.

[0035] In some embodiments, the transceiver is further configured to transmit system information blocks to the UE. The serving cell mobile reference location is determined based on a first reference location, first ephemeris information, and a first epoch time.

[0036] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to generate a measurement object configuration, the measurement object configuration including a second reference position, a second ephemeris information, and a second epoch time for neighboring cells.

[0037] In some embodiments, the transceiver is further configured to send measurement object configuration to the UE. The neighboring cell movement reference position is determined based on a second reference position, second ephemeris information, and second epoch time.

[0038] One aspect of this disclosure provides a method performed by a user equipment (UE) for facilitating communication in a wireless network. The method includes determining whether entry conditions are met, wherein the entry conditions are: i) whether a first distance between the UE and a serving cell's mobile reference location is greater than a first threshold, and ii) whether a second distance between the UE and a neighboring cell's mobile reference location is less than a second threshold. The method includes generating a measurement report based on the determination that the entry conditions are met. The method includes sending the measurement report to the serving cell.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method further includes: determining whether a departure condition is met, wherein the departure condition is: i) whether a first distance between the UE and the serving cell's mobile reference location is lower than a first threshold, or ii) whether a second distance between the UE and the neighboring cell's mobile reference location is higher than a second threshold.

[0040] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a system information block from a serving cell, the system information block including a first reference position, first ephemeris information, and a first epoch time of the serving cell. The method further includes determining a moving reference position of the serving cell based on the first reference position, the first ephemeris information, and the first epoch time.

[0041] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a measurement object configuration from the serving cell, the measurement object configuration including a second reference position, second ephemeris information, and second epoch time of neighboring cells. The method further includes: determining a moving reference position of neighboring cells based on the second reference position, the second ephemeris information, and the second epoch time.

[0042] In some embodiments, the entry condition is satisfied when both a first entry condition and a second entry condition are met. First entry condition:

[0043]

[0044] in, It is the first distance. It is a lag parameter, and This is the first threshold. The second entry condition:

[0045]

[0046] in, It is the second distance. It is a lag parameter, and It is the second threshold.

[0047] In some embodiments, a departure condition is satisfied when at least one of a first departure condition and a second departure condition is met. First departure condition:

[0048]

[0049] in, It is the first distance. It is a lag parameter, and The first threshold. The second exit condition:

[0050]

[0051] in, It is the second distance. It is a lag parameter, and It is the second threshold.

[0052] In some embodiments, the measurement object configuration is configured by the serving cell for neighboring cells served by non-terrestrial network earthmobile cells.

[0053] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a configuration indicating a first threshold and a second threshold from the serving cell.

[0054] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0055] This disclosure provides efficient communication methods in wireless communication systems. Attached Figure Description

[0056] Figure 1 Examples of wireless networks according to various embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0057] Figure 2A Examples of wireless transmission paths according to various embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0058] Figure 2B Examples of wireless reception paths according to various embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0059] Figure 3A Examples of user equipment (UE) according to various embodiments of this disclosure are shown.

[0060] Figure 3B Examples of base stations (BSs) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0061] Figure 4 Example process 400 for measurement reporting according to various embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0062] Figure 5 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a UE according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0063] Figure 6 Block diagrams illustrating the structure of a base station according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, as disclosed herein.

[0064] In one or more embodiments, not all of the components depicted in each figure may be required, and one or more embodiments may include additional components not shown in the figures. Variations in the arrangement and type of components may be made without departing from the scope of this subject matter disclosure. Additional components, different components, or fewer components may be utilized within the scope of this subject matter disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0065] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to describe various embodiments and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the subject matter can be practiced. Rather, this detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the invention. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and description are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in nature. The same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0066] The following description is directed to certain implementations for the purpose of describing the innovative aspects of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that a variety of different approaches can be used to apply the teachings herein. The examples in this disclosure are based on current 5G NR systems, advanced 5G (5G-A) and its further improvements and advancements, as well as upcoming 6G communication systems. However, in various cases, the described embodiments can also be implemented in any device, system, or network capable of transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals according to other technologies, such as 3G and 4G systems, or further implementations thereof. For example, the principles of this disclosure can be applied to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), GSM / General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Terrestrial Trunking Radio (TETRA), Wideband CDMA (W-CDMA), Evolved Data Optimized (EV-DO), 1xEV-DO, EV-DO Rev A, EV-DO Rev B, High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Evolved High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA+), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Enhanced 5G NR, AMPS, or other known signals used for communication within one or more of the aforementioned systems, such as those utilizing 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, or further embodiments thereof, in wireless, cellular, or IoT networks. This technology can also be associated with and applied to any of the existing or proposed IEEE 802.11 standards, Bluetooth standards, and other wireless communication standards.

[0067] Wireless communication, as described above, is one of the most commercially successful innovations in history. Aside from automation software, robotics, machine learning, and other technologies that enable the automatic use of these types of communication devices, the absolute number of wireless or cellular subscribers continues to grow. Just over a year ago, the number of subscribers for all types of communication services exceeded five billion. This number has long been surpassed and continues to grow rapidly. The demand for services employing wireless data traffic is also increasing rapidly, partly due to the growing popularity of smartphones and other mobile data devices, such as tablets, notepad computers, netbooks, e-book readers, and dedicated machine-type devices, among consumers and businesses. It goes without saying that improvements in radio interface efficiency and coverage are crucial to meeting the high growth of mobile data traffic and supporting new applications and deployments.

[0068] To continue to accommodate the rapidly increasing demand for wireless data traffic transmission over the years and to facilitate the growth and complexity of so-called “vertical applications” (i.e., code written or generated according to the specific requirements of a user or entity to achieve goals unique to that user or entity, such as enterprise resource planning and customer relationship management software), 5G communication systems have been developed and are currently being commercially deployed. Advanced 5G, as defined in 3GPP Release 18, is a further upgrade to various aspects of 5G and has already been introduced in some countries as an optimization of 5G. Development of Advanced 5G is ongoing. The development and enhancement of 5G can also provide greater overall efficiency for processing resources, including, for example, in high-intensity machine learning environments involving precision medical devices, measuring equipment, robotics, etc. Due to 5G and its anticipated successors, these devices are expected to have more robust access to one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) and other software routines and operate at faster speeds.

[0069] Among other advantages, 5G can be implemented using higher frequency bands, particularly 28 GHz or 60 GHz bands. More generally, such bands can include bands above 6 GHz. A key benefit of these higher frequency bands is potentially significantly superior data rates. One disadvantage is the requirement for line-of-sight (LOS) in some cases, the difficulty of higher frequencies penetrating barriers between the base station and the UE, and a shorter overall transmission range. When transmitting at these millimeter-wave (mmW) frequencies, 5G systems rely on more directional communication (e.g., using multiple antennas, massive MIMO implementations, transmit and / or receive beamforming, temporary power increases, etc.). Furthermore, 5G can advantageously use lower frequency bands (such as below 6 GHz) for transmission to achieve more robust and longer-range coverage and for mobility support (including handover, etc.). As described above, various aspects of this disclosure can be applied to 5G deployments, currently developing 6G systems, and subsequent versions. The latter category can include those standards applied to the THz band. This is to reduce radio wave propagation loss and increase transmission distance. As described in the section, emerging technologies such as MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, digital and analog beamforming, massive MIMO technology, and other technologies are discussed in various 3GPP-based standards that define implementation methods for 5G communication systems.

[0070] In addition, in 5G communication systems, development of system network improvements based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (RAN) ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, cooperative communication, coordinated multipoint (CoMP), and receiver interference cancellation are underway or have already been deployed. With the emergence of exemplary technologies such as neural network machine learning, autonomous or partially controlled electric vehicles, or hydrogen-based vehicles, these 5G advancements are expected to play a potentially significant role in their respective implementations. Other advanced access technologies already developed or under development in the 5G architecture include, for example, advanced coding and modulation (ACM) schemes using hybrid frequency shift keying (FSK), frequency orthogonal amplitude modulation (FQAM), and sliding window superposition coding (SWSC); and advanced access technologies using filter bank multicarrier (FBMC), non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), and sparse code multiple access (SCMA).

[0071] Also under development are the principles of 6G technology, which could be commercially available by the end of the decade or even earlier. 6G systems are expected to incorporate most or all of the improvements brought by 5G and further enhance them, adding new features and capabilities. 6G is also expected to exploit unmapped areas of bandwidth to increase overall capacity. As noted, the principles of this disclosure are expected to be applied with equal force to 6G systems and beyond.

[0072] Figure 1 Examples of wireless networks 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1 The embodiment of the wireless network 100 shown is for illustrative purposes only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. It should be noted initially that the nomenclature can vary widely depending on the system. For example, in Figure 1 In this context, the term "BS" (base station) can also be referred to as eNodeB (eNB), gNodeB (gNB), or, in the commercial rollout of 6G, BS may have another name. For the purposes of this disclosure, BS and gNB are used interchangeably. Therefore, depending on the network type, the term "gNB" can refer to any component (or set of components) configured to provide wireless access to a network to remote terminals, such as a base transceiver station, radio base station, transmitting point (TP), transmitting-receiving point (TRP), terrestrial gateway, airborne gNB, satellite system, mobile base station, macro cell, femtocell, WiFi access point (AP), etc. Return to Reference Figure 1 Network 100 includes BS (or gNB) 101, BS 102, and BS 103. BS 101 communicates with BS 102 and BS 103. BSs can connect via known backhaul connections or other connection methods such as wireless connections. BS 101 also communicates with at least one Internet Protocol (IP) based network 130. Network 130 may include the Internet, a proprietary IP network, or another network.

[0073] Similarly, depending on the type of network 100, other well-known terms may be used instead of "user equipment" or "UE," such as "mobile station," "subscriber station," "remote terminal," "wireless terminal," or "user device." For convenience, the terms "user equipment" and "UE" are used interchangeably with "subscriber station" in this patent document to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses the gNB, whether the UE is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or is generally considered to be a fixed device (such as a desktop computer, vending machine, appliance, or any device with a wireless connection compatible with network 100). Continue to refer to Figure 1BS 102 provides wireless broadband access to IP network 130 to a first plurality of user equipments (UEs) within its coverage area 120. The first plurality of UEs includes UE 111, which may be located in a small business (SB); UE 112, which may be located in an enterprise (E); UE 113, which may be located in a WiFi hotspot (HS); UE 114, which may be located in a first residence (R); UE 115, which may be located in a second residence (R); and UE 116, which may be a mobile device (M), such as a cellular phone, wireless laptop computer, wireless PDA, etc. BS 103 provides wireless broadband access to IP network 130 to a second plurality of UEs within its coverage area 125. The second plurality of UEs includes UE 115 and UE 116, which are located in both coverage areas 120 and 125. In some embodiments, one or more of BS 101 to BS 103 may communicate with each other and with UE 111 to UE 116 using 6G, 5G, LTE, LTE-A, WiMAX or other advanced wireless communication technologies.

[0074] exist Figure 1 As noted, the dashed lines represent the approximate extents of coverage areas 120 and 125 of BS 102 and BS 103, respectively, and are shown as approximately circular for illustrative and explanatory purposes. It should be clearly understood that, depending on the configuration of the BS, the coverage areas associated with the BS (such as coverage areas 120 and 125) can have other shapes, including irregular shapes. Although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network 100 is shown, but more details can be found on other wireless networks. Figure 1 Various modifications can be made. For example, the wireless network 100 can include any number of BS / gNBs and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. Furthermore, BS 101 can communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide these UEs with wireless broadband access to the IP network 130. Similarly, each BS 102 or BS 103 can communicate directly with the IP network 130 and provide the UEs with direct wireless broadband access to the network 130. Additionally, gNBs 101, 102, and / or 103 can provide access to other or additional external networks, such as external telephone networks or other types of data networks.

[0075] As discussed in more detail below, wireless network 100 may have communications facilitated via one or more communication satellites 104 in orbit above the Earth. The communication satellites 104 may communicate directly with BS 102 and BS 103 to provide network access, for example, where BS 102 and BS 103 are remotely located or otherwise require network access beyond conventional fronthaul and / or backhaul connections. BS 102 and BS 103 may also be on the communication satellites 104. One or more UEs (e.g., as depicted in UE 116) may be able to have at least some direct communication and / or location with the communication satellites 104.

[0076] Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) refer to networks or network segments that utilize RF resources on communication satellites (or unmanned aerial vehicle system platforms) (e.g., multiple communication satellites 104). NTNs are envisioned to ensure ubiquitous service availability and continuity, providing broad coverage and reliable service. For example, NTNs can support communication services in serviceless areas not covered by traditional terrestrial networks, in underserved areas experiencing limited communication services, for devices and passengers on mobile platforms, and for future rail / maritime / aviation communications.

[0077] As described in more detail below, one or more of UEs 111 to UE 116 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for supporting mobility in a wireless network. In some embodiments, one or more of BSs 101 to BS 103 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for mobility in a wireless network.

[0078] It should be understood that in a 5G system, BS 101 may include multiple antennas, multiple radio frequency (RF) transceivers, transmit (TX) processing circuitry, and receive (RX) processing circuitry. BS 101 may also include a controller / processor, memory, and a backhaul or network interface. The RF transceivers can receive incoming RF signals from the antennas, such as signals transmitted by the UE in network 100. The RF transceivers can down-convert the incoming RF signals to generate intermediate (IF) or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are sent to the RX processing circuitry, which generates a processed baseband signal by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. The RX processing circuitry then sends the processed baseband signal to the controller / processor for further processing.

[0079] The controller / processor may include control BS 101 ( Figure 1The controller / processor is one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the UE. For example, the controller / processor can control the RX processing circuitry and TX processing circuitry to receive uplink signals from the UE and transmit downlink signals from the UE, based on well-known principles. The controller / processor can also support additional functions, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, the controller / processor can support beamforming or directional routing operations, where outgoing signals from multiple antennas are weighted differently to effectively guide outgoing signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor can also support OFDMA operations, where outgoing signals can be assigned to different subsets of subcarriers for different receivers (e.g., different UEs 111 to UE 114). The controller / processor can support a variety of other functions in BS 101, including combining MIMO and OFDMA in the same transmission opportunity. In some embodiments, the controller / processor may include at least one microprocessor or microcontroller. The controller / processor is also capable of executing programs and other processes residing in memory, such as the OS. The controller / processor can move data into or out of memory as needed for the execution of the process.

[0080] The controller / processor is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface. The backhaul or network interface allows BS 101 to communicate with other BSs, devices, or systems via a backhaul connection or over a network. The interface can support communication via any suitable wired or wireless connection(s). For example, the interface can allow BS 101 to communicate via a wired or wireless LAN or via a wired or wireless connection to a larger network, such as the Internet. The interface can include any suitable architecture that supports communication via wired or wireless connections, such as Ethernet or an RF transceiver. Memory is coupled to the controller / processor. A portion of the memory can include RAM, and another portion can include flash memory or other ROM.

[0081] For the purposes of this disclosure, "processor" can encompass not only the main processor but also other hardware, firmware, middleware, or software implementations that can be responsible for performing various functions. Furthermore, the processor executing code in memory can include multiple processors and other components, and may include one or more physical memories. Therefore, for example, executable code or data can reside in different physical memories, and this embodiment remains within the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0082] Figure 2A Examples of wireless transmission paths 200A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 2B Examples of wireless receiving paths 200B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the following description, a transmitting path 200A can be implemented in a gNB / BS (such as...). Figure 1The BS 102) is implemented, while the receive path 200B can be implemented in the UE (such as...). Figure 1 The receiving path 200B is implemented in the UE 111 (SB). However, it should be understood that the receiving path 200B can be implemented in the BS, and the transmitting path 200A can be implemented in the UE. In some embodiments, the receiving path 200B is configured to support codebook design and architecture for a system with a 2D antenna array as described in some embodiments of this disclosure. That is, each of the BS and UE includes a transmitting path and a receiving path, enabling full-duplex communication such as voice sessions. In some embodiments, the transmitting path 200A and the receiving path 200B are configured to support mobility in a wireless network as described in various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0083] Transmission path 200A includes: a channel coding and modulation block 205 for modulating and encoding data bits into symbols; a serial-to-parallel (S-to-P) conversion block 210; an N-size inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) block 215 for converting N frequency-based signals back to the time domain before transmission; a parallel-to-serial (P-to-S) block 220 for serializing the parallel data blocks from IFFT block 215 into a single data stream (note that BS / UEs with multiple transmission paths can each transmit separate data streams); and a cyclic prefix addition block 225 for adding a guard interval, which can be a copy of the end portion of an orthogonal frequency domain modulation (OFDM) symbol (or any modulation scheme used) and is typically at least as long as the delay spread to mitigate the effects of multipath propagation. Alternatively, the cyclic prefix can contain data about the corresponding frame or other data unit. Next, an upconverter (UC) 230 modulates the baseband (or, in some cases, intermediate frequency (IF)) signal onto a carrier signal for use as an RF signal transmitted via an antenna.

[0084] The receive path 200B essentially comprises the opposite circuitry and includes a downconverter (DC) 255 for removing the data stream from the carrier signal and restoring it to a baseband (or IF) data stream in other embodiments; a cyclic prefix removal block 260 for removing guard intervals (or removing intervals of varying lengths); a serial-to-parallel (S-to-P) block 265 for acquiring the data stream and parallelizing it into N data streams for faster operation; a multi-input size N Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) block 270 for converting N time-domain signals into symbols in the frequency domain; a parallel-to-serial (P-to-S) block 275 for serializing the symbols; and a channel decoding and demodulation block 280 for decoding the data and demodulating the symbols into bits using any demodulation and decoding scheme initially used to reference the modulated and encoded data of the transmit path 200A.

[0085] As another example, in Figure 2AIn the transmission path 200A, the channel coding and modulation block 205 receives a set of information bits, applies coding (such as low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding), and modulates the input bits (such as using quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), orthogonal frequency domain multiple access (OFDMA), or other current or future modulation schemes) to generate a frequency domain modulated symbol sequence. The serial-to-parallel block 210 converts (such as demultiplexing) the serial modulated symbols into parallel data to generate N parallel symbol streams, where, as indicated, N is in BS 102 and UE 116 ( Figure 1 The size of the IFFT / FFT used is specified. An IFFT block 215 of size N performs an IFFT operation on N parallel symbol streams to generate a time-domain output signal. A parallel-to-serial block 220 converts (e.g., multiplexes) the parallel time-domain output symbols from the N-size IFFT block 215 to generate a serial time-domain signal. A cyclic prefix addition block 225 inserts a cyclic prefix into the time-domain signal. An upconverter 230 modulates (e.g., upconverts) the output of the cyclic prefix addition block 225 from baseband (or, in other embodiments, intermediate frequency IF) to an RF frequency for transmission via a wireless channel. The signal may also be filtered at baseband before conversion to the RF frequency.

[0086] The RF signal transmitted from BS 102 reaches UE 116 after passing through the radio channel, and in UE 116 ( Figure 1 The operation at BS 102 is the reverse of the operation at BS 102. Downconverter 255 (e.g., at UE 116) downconverts the received signal to baseband or IF frequency, and cyclic prefix removal block 260 removes the cyclic prefix to generate a serial time-domain baseband signal. Serial-to-parallel block 265 converts or multiplexes the time-domain baseband signal into a parallel time-domain signal. FFT block 270 of size N performs an FFT algorithm to generate N parallel frequency-domain signals. Parallel-to-serial block 275 converts the parallel frequency-domain signals into a sequence of modulated data symbols. Channel decoding and demodulation block 280 demodulates and decodes the modulated symbols to recover the original input data stream. The data stream can then be segmented and processed accordingly using the processor and its associated memory. Figure 1Each of BS 101 to BS 103 can implement a transmission path 200A similar to that sent to UE 111 to UE 116 in the downlink, and similarly, each of BS 101 to BS 103 can implement a reception path 200B similar to that received from UE 111 to UE 116 in the uplink. Similarly, to achieve bidirectional signaling, each of UE 111 to UE 116 can implement a transmission path 200A for sending to BS 101 to BS 103 in the uplink, and each of UE 111 to UE 116 can implement a reception path 200B for receiving from gNB 101-103 in the downlink. In this way, a given UE can exchange signals bidirectionally with the BSs within its range, and vice versa.

[0087] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Each component can be implemented using only hardware or a combination of hardware and software / firmware. As a specific example, Figure 2A and Figure 2B At least some components can be implemented in software, while others can be implemented using configurable hardware or a hybrid of software and configurable hardware. For example, FFT block 270 and IFFT block 215 can be implemented as configurable software algorithms, where the value of size N can be modified according to the implementation. Furthermore, although described as using FFT and IFFT, this exemplary implementation is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. For example, other types of transforms such as Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and Inverse Discrete Fourier Transform (IDFT) functions can be used instead of FFT / IFFT. It should be understood that for DFT and IDFT functions, the value of variable N can be any integer (such as 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), while for FFT and IFFT functions, the value of variable N can be any integer a power of 2 (such as 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, etc.). Additionally, although... Figure 2A and Figure 2B An example of a wireless transmit and receive path is shown, but it is possible to modify it further. Figure 2A and Figure 2B Various changes can be made. For example, depending on specific needs, it can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted. Figure 2A and Figure 2B It contains various components, and additional components can be added. Furthermore, Figure 2A and Figure 2B This section provides examples illustrating the types of send and receive paths that can be used in a wireless network. Any other suitable architecture can be used to support wireless communication in a wireless network. For example, [the architecture described here is missing from the original text]. Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe functions performed by the modules can be executed by a processor that executes the correct code in the memory corresponding to each module.

[0088] Figure 3A A user equipment (UE) 300A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown (which may be, for example...). Figure 1 Examples include UE 116 (or another UE). It should be understood that... Figure 3A The embodiment of UE 300A shown is for illustrative purposes only, and Figure 1 UEs 111 through UE 116 can have the same or similar configurations. However, UEs have a wide variety of configurations, and Figure 3A The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of the UE by UE 300A. Reference is now made to Figure 3A The UE 300A includes components such as an antenna 305 (which may be a single antenna or an array of antennas in other UEs), a radio frequency (RF) transceiver 310, transmit (TX) processing circuitry 315 coupled to the RF transceiver 310, a microphone 320, and receive (RX) processing circuitry 325. The UE 300A also includes a speaker 330 coupled to the receive processing circuitry 325, a main processor 340, an input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 345 coupled to the processor 340, a keypad (or (multiple) other input devices) 350 coupled to the processor 340, a display 355, and a memory 360. In addition to data, the memory 360 also includes a basic operating system (OS) program 361 and one or more applications 362. In some embodiments, the display 355 may also constitute an input touchpad, and in this case, it may be bidirectionally coupled to the processor 340.

[0089] Depending on the complexity and configuration of the UE, the RF transceiver may include more than one transceiver. RF transceiver 310 receives incoming RF signals transmitted by the BS of network 100 from antenna 305. The RF transceiver transmits and receives radio data and control information. In this example, the RF transceiver is operatively coupled to processor 340 via TX processing circuitry 315 and RF processing circuitry 325. RF transceiver 310 may then down-convert the incoming RF signal to generate an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband signal. In some embodiments, down-conversion may be performed by another device coupled to the transceiver. The IF or baseband signal is sent to RX processing circuitry 325, which generates a processed baseband signal by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signal. RX processing circuitry 325 sends the processed baseband signal to speaker 330 (e.g., in the context of a voice call) or to main processor 340 for further processing (e.g., for web browsing data or any number of other applications). TX processing circuitry 315 receives analog or digital voice data from microphone 320, or in other cases, it may receive other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from main processor 340. TX processing circuitry 315 encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. RF transceiver 310 receives the processed outgoing baseband or IF signal from TX processing circuitry 315 and up-converts it into an RF signal transmitted via antenna 305. Alternative methods and arrangements may be used to perform the same operation without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure.

[0090] The main processor 340 may include one or more processors or other processing devices and executes a basic OS program 361 stored in memory 360 to control the overall operation of UE 116. For example, the main processor 340 may control the RF transceiver 310, RX processing circuitry 325, and TX processing circuitry 315 to receive forward channel signals and transmit reverse channel signals according to well-known principles. In some embodiments, the main processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller. The transceiver 310 is coupled directly to the processor 340 or via an intermediate element. The main processor 340 is also capable of executing other processes and programs residing in memory 360, such as CLTM in a wireless communication system as described in embodiments of this disclosure. The main processor 340 may move data into or out of memory 360 as needed for the execution of the process. In some embodiments, the main processor 340 is configured to execute application 362 based on OS program 361 or in response to signals received from an operator of the BS or UE. For example, the main processor 340 may execute processes supporting mobility in a wireless network as described in various embodiments of this disclosure. The main processor 340 is also coupled to an I / O interface 345, which provides the UE 300A with the ability to connect to other devices, such as laptops and handheld computers. The I / O interface 345 serves as the communication path between these accessories and the main controller 340. The main processor 340 is also coupled to a keypad 350 and a display unit 355. The operator of the UE 300A can use the keypad 350 to input data into the UE 300A. The display 355 may be a liquid crystal display or another display capable of rendering text and / or at least limited graphics from a website. Memory 360 is coupled to the main processor 340. A portion of the memory 360 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of the memory 360 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0091] Figure 3AThe UE 300A may also include additional or different types of memory, including dynamic random access memory (DRAM), non-volatile flash memory, static RAM (SRAM), cache memory at different levels, etc. While the main processor 340 may be a complex instruction set computer (CISC) based processor with one or more cores, it should be noted that in other embodiments, the processor may include multiple processors. These processors may also include reduced instruction set computer (RISC) based processors. Various other components of the UE 300A may include separate processors, or they may be partially or wholly controlled by firmware or middleware. For example, any one or more components of the UE 300A may include one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) for performing specific tasks, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) for performing the various tasks discussed above, one or more programmable logic devices (PLDs), one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or one or more system-on-a-chip (SoCs). In some embodiments, the UE 300A may rely on middleware or firmware, whose updates may be received from time to time. For devices typically targeted at compact smartphones and other UEs, hardware designs can be implemented to reflect this smaller aspect ratio. Multiple antennas may extend from the device or be located within other UEs; multiple antennas may also be embedded within the UE body. The display panel may include a layer of indium tin oxide or a similar compound to enable the display to function as a touchpad. In short, although... Figure 3A An example of UE 300A is shown, but it is possible to compare it with other models. Figure 3A Various changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, combinations, further subdivisions, or omissions may be made as needed. Figure 3A The system contains various components, and additional components can be added. As an example above, the main processor 340 can be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). Furthermore, although... Figure 3A This may include a UE configured as a mobile phone or smartphone (e.g., Figure 1 The UE (as defined in UE 116) can be configured to operate as other types of mobile or fixed devices. For example, the UE can be incorporated into tower desktop computers, tablet computers, laptops, workstations, and servers.

[0092] Figure 3B Examples of BS 300B according to various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Non-exhaustive examples of BS 300B may include... Figure 1 Example of BS 102. As stated above, for the purposes of this disclosure, the terms BS and gNB may be used interchangeably. Figure 3BThe BS 300B embodiment shown is for illustrative purposes only, and Figure 1 Other BSs can have the same or similar configurations. However, BS / gNBs have a wide variety of configurations, and it should be emphasized that... Figure 3B The BS shown does not limit the scope of this disclosure to any particular implementation of the BS. For example, BS 101 and BS 103 may include [missing information - likely related to specific implementations of the BS]. Figure 1 BS 102 or BS 300B (in Figure 3B They have the same or similar structures, or they can have different structures. For example... Figure 3B As shown, the BS 300B includes multiple antennas 370a-370n, multiple corresponding RF transceivers 372a-372n, transmit (TX) processing circuitry 374, and receive (RX) processing circuitry 376. The transceivers 372a-372n are coupled directly to the processor or via intermediate elements. In some embodiments, one or more of the multiple antennas 370a-370n include a 2D antenna array. The BS 300B also includes a controller / processor 378 (hereinafter referred to as "processor 378"), a memory 380, and a backhaul or network interface 382. The RF transceivers 372a-372n receive incoming RF signals from the antennas 370a-370n, such as signals transmitted by the UE or other BSs. The RF transceivers 372a-372n down-convert the corresponding incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signal is sent to the RX processing circuit 376, which generates a processed baseband signal by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signal. The RX processing circuit 376 sends the processed baseband signal to the controller / processor 378 for further processing. The TX processing circuit 374 receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, interactive video game data, or data used in machine learning programs) from the processor 378. The TX processing circuit 374 encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. RF transceivers 372a-372n receive the outgoing processed baseband or IF signal from the TX processing circuit 374 and up-convert the baseband or IF signal into an RF signal transmitted via antennas 370a-370n. It should be noted that the above is descriptive in nature; in reality, not all antennas 370-370n need to be active simultaneously.

[0093] Processor 378 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of BS 300B. For example, processor 378 may control the reception of forward channel signals and the transmission of reverse channel signals by RF transceivers 372a-372n, RX processing circuitry 376, and TX processing circuitry 374 according to well-known principles. As another example, processor 378 may support mobility in a wireless network. Processor 378 may also support additional functions, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, processor 378 may perform blind interference sensing (BIS) processes (such as those performed by BIS algorithms) and decode the received signal after subtracting interference signals. Processor 378 may support any of a variety of other functions in BS 300B. In some embodiments, processor 378 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller or an array thereof. Processor 378 is also capable of executing programs and other processes residing in memory 380, such as a basic operating system (OS). Processor 378 is also capable of supporting CLTM in a wireless communication system as described in the embodiments of this disclosure. In some embodiments, controller / processor 378 supports communication between entities, such as web RTC. The processor 378 can move data into or out of the memory 380 as needed during execution. The backhaul or network interface 382 allows the BS 300B to communicate with other devices or systems via a backhaul connection or network. Interface 382 can support communication via any suitable wired or wireless connection(s). For example, when the BS 300B is implemented as part of a cellular communication system (such as a cellular communication system supporting 5G, 5G-A, LTE, or LTE-A), interface 382 can allow the BS 102 ( Figure 1 It communicates with other BSs via wired or wireless backhaul connections. (Return to Reference) Figure 3B Interface 382 allows BS 102 to communicate via a wired or wireless local area network or via a wired or wireless connection to a larger network, such as the Internet. Interface 382 includes any suitable architecture supporting communication via a wired or wireless connection, such as an Ethernet or RF transceiver. Memory 380 is coupled to processor 378. A portion of memory 380 may include RAM, and another portion of memory 380 may include flash memory or other ROM. In some exemplary embodiments, multiple instructions, such as a bispectral index algorithm (BIS), may be stored in memory. The multiple instructions are configured to cause processor 378 to perform the BIS process and decode the received signal after subtracting at least one interference signal determined by the BIS algorithm.

[0094] As described in more detail below, the transmit and receive paths of BS 102 (using RF transceivers 372a-372n, TX processing circuitry 374, and / or RX processing circuitry 376 as BS 300B) Figure 3B (As implemented in the example) supports aggregation communication with Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) cells, Time Division Duplex (TDD) cells, or some combination of both. That is, communication with multiple UEs can be achieved by assigning the transceiver's uplink to a specific frequency and establishing downlinks (FDD) using different frequencies. In TDD, uplink and downlink partitioning is achieved by allocating some time for uplink transmissions to the BS and other time for downlink transmissions from the BS to the UE. Although Figure 3B This shows that it can be similar to or equivalent to BS 102 ( Figure 1 An example of BS 300B, but it is possible to... Figure 3B Various changes can be made. For example, BS300B can include any number of... Figure 3B Each component is shown. As a specific example, an access point may include multiple interfaces 382, ​​and a processor 378 may support routing capabilities to route data between different network addresses. As another example, although for simplicity... Figure 3B The description includes a single instance of TX processing circuitry 374 and a single instance of RX processing circuitry 376, but the BS 300B may include multiple instances of each (such as one transmit or receive per RF transceiver).

[0095] As an example, version 13 of the LTE standard supports up to 16 CSI-RS (Channel State Information-Reference Signal) antenna ports, allowing the BS to be equipped with a large number of antenna elements (such as 64 or 128). In this case, multiple antenna elements are mapped to a single CSI-RS port. Furthermore, version 14 LTE supports up to 32 CSI-RS ports. For next-generation cellular systems such as 5G, the maximum number of CSI-RS ports can be even greater. CSI-RS is a type of reference signal sent by the BS to the UE to allow the UE to estimate the downlink radio channel quality. CSI-RS can be transmitted in any available OFDM symbols and subcarriers configured in the Radio Resource Control (RRC) message. The UE measures various radio channel quality parameters (time delay, signal-to-noise ratio, power, etc.) and reports the results to the BS.

[0096] Figure 3BThe BS 300B may also include additional or different types of memory 380, including dynamic random access memory (DRAM), non-volatile flash memory, static RAM (SRAM), cache memory at different levels, etc. While the main processor 378 may be a complex instruction set computer (CISC) based processor with one or more cores, in other embodiments, the processor may include multiple processors or an array of processors. Typically, in embodiments, the processing power and requirements of the BS may be much higher than those of a typical UE, although this is not necessary. Some BSs may include large structures on towers or other structures, and their immobility allows them to access a fixed power supply without requiring any local power, except for a backup battery in power outage-type events. The processors (multiple) 378 may also include reduced instruction set computer (RISC) based processors or arrays thereof. Various other components of the BS 300B may include separate processors, or they may be partially or wholly controlled by firmware or middleware. For example, any one or more components of the BS 300B may include one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) for performing specific tasks, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) for performing the various tasks described above, one or more programmable logic devices (PLDs), one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or one or more system-on-a-chip (SoCs). In some implementations, the BS 300B may rely on middleware or firmware, whose updates may be received from time to time. In some configurations, the BS may include stacked motherboard layers to accommodate greater processing demands and process channel state information (CSI) and other data received from nearby UEs.

[0097] In short, although Figure 3B An example of a BS is shown, but it is possible to compare it with other BS examples. Figure 3B Various changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, elements may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted as needed. Figure 3B The BS contains various components, and additional components can be added. As an example mentioned above, the main processor 378 can be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs)—or, in some cases, multiple motherboards for enhanced functionality. The BS can also include a large number of solid-state drive (SSD) storage or magnetic hard disks for long-term data retention. Furthermore, while one example of the BS 300B is an example of a tower-based structure, this depiction is merely exemplary, and the BS can exist in other forms based on well-known principles.

[0098] The following provides a description of various aspects of this disclosure. The text and corresponding drawings in the written description are provided by way of example only to help the reader understand the principles of this disclosure. They are not intended and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. Although certain embodiments and examples have been provided, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, based on the disclosure herein, that changes can be made to the illustrated embodiments and examples without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0099] From the following detailed description, aspects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent. Several embodiments and implementations are shown for illustrative purposes. This disclosure is also capable of further and different embodiments, and several details thereof may be modified in various obvious ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and description are to be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive. This disclosure is illustrated in the accompanying figures by way of example rather than limitation.

[0100] Although the following exemplary descriptions and embodiments employ Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) or Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) for illustrative purposes, other encoding / decoding techniques may be used. That is, this disclosure can be extended to other OFDM-based transmission waveforms or multiple access schemes such as filtered OFDM (F-OFDM). Furthermore, the principles of this disclosure are equally applicable to all different encoding and modulation methods. Examples include LDPC, QPSK, BPSK, QAM, etc.

[0101] This disclosure covers several components that can be used in combination or together, or that can operate as independent solutions. Given the large number of terms and jargon used in conveying concepts related to wireless communication, those skilled in the art have developed numerous acronyms to refer to common elements, components, and processes. For the reader's convenience, a non-exhaustive list of example acronyms is presented below. As will be apparent in the following text, many of these acronyms, both below and in the remainder of the document, may have been newly created by the inventors, while others may currently be familiar. For example, certain acronyms (e.g., CLTM, etc.) may have been developed by the inventors and designed to help provide an effective description of unique features within this disclosure. The following is a list of common and unique acronyms.

[0102] The following documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if fully set forth herein: i) 3GPP TS 38.300 v17.6.0; ii) 3GPP TS 38.331 v17.6.0; and iii) 3GPP TS 38.321 v17.6.0.

[0103] 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) has developed technical specifications and standards to define a new 5G radio access technology called 5G NR (New Radio). In Release 17, 5G NR introduces non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) as a vertical function. The NTN provides non-terrestrial NR access to user equipment (UEs) via, but not limited to, NTN payloads (e.g., satellites) and NTN gateways. The NTN payload can receive radio protocols received from the UE via a serving link (e.g., a radio link between the UE and the NTN payload) and transparently forward them to the NTN gateway via a feeder link (e.g., a radio link between the NTN payload and the NTN gateway), and vice versa. Given its ability to provide broad coverage and reliable service, the NTN is envisioned to ensure ubiquitous service availability and continuity. For example, the NTN can support communication services in unserved areas not covered by traditional terrestrial networks, as well as in underserved areas with limited communication services. Furthermore, the NTN can support communication services for devices and passengers on mobile platforms such as future rail, maritime, or air communication systems. To support NTN in 5G NR, various features need to be introduced or enhanced to accommodate the nature of radio access to NTN, which differs from terrestrial networks (TN) in terms of large and small cell coverage, long propagation delay, and non-static cells / satellites.

[0104] In NTN, the NTN payload can be a geostationary orbit (GSO), which is a geocentric orbit approximately 35,786 km above the Earth's surface and synchronized with the Earth's rotation. Alternatively, the NTN payload can be a non-geostationary orbit (NGSO), which is a low Earth orbit (LEO) at an altitude between approximately 300 km and 1,500 km, or a medium Earth orbit (MEO) at an altitude between approximately 7,000 km and 25,000 km. Depending on the different NTN payloads, three types of service links are supported. The first is an earth-fixed service link, provided by a beam continuously covering the same geographic area, such as a GSO satellite. The second is a quasi-earth-fixed service link, provided by a beam covering one geographic area for a limited period of time and another geographic area at different times, such as an NGSO satellite. The third is an earth-moving service link, provided by a beam whose coverage area slides across the Earth's surface, such as an NGSO satellite generating a fixed or non-steerable beam.

[0105] Base stations (BSs) operating with NGSO satellites can provide either quasi-fixed or mobile cell coverage, while BSs operating with GSO satellites can provide fixed cell coverage. Due to the different properties of GSO and NGSO, different types of cells can be supported in an NTN, including, for example, fixed cells, quasi-fixed cells, and mobile cells. For a given type of NTN payload or cell, the UE needs to support specific features or functions for radio access to the NTN.

[0106] For a UE in a connected state (e.g., RRC_CONNECTED), the network can provide measurement configurations for the measurement object (such as co-frequency or inter-frequency neighboring cells). Based on the UE's measurement results, the BS can prepare a handover (HO) from the current serving cell (or source cell) to the target cell and trigger handover execution by sending a handover command in an RRC message (such as an RRCReconfiguration message). The BS can also prepare a conditional handover (CHO) with one or more candidate cells for the UE and send a CHO configuration in an RRC message (e.g., an RRCReconfiguration message) to trigger CHO evaluation.

[0107] Due to the large propagation distance between the UE and gNB (gNodeB or BS) in NTN, handover delays and interruptions caused by message exchange between the UE and gNB can be significant. Furthermore, due to the large cell size of NTN, a large number of UEs may need to perform handover almost simultaneously in quasi-fixed cells. To reduce handover delays and overhead, handover without a random access channel (RACH) is preferred. Similarly, for TN, RACH-less handover can also be implemented to reduce handover delays and overhead.

[0108] In RACH-less handover, upon handover to the target cell, the UE begins monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) on the selected bandwidth portion (BWP) using a beam that is quasi-co-located with the selected SSB (System Synchronization and PBCH Block) sent for message 1 (Msg 1) or message A (Msg A). For RACH-less handover, since there is no preamble transmission, the network directly indicates the SSB index for PDCCH monitoring used for dynamic grant (DG) in the RACH-less handover command. However, if a configured grant (CG) is provided for the initial UL transmission, it is unclear how the UE monitors the PDCCH to confirm successful RACH-less handover.

[0109] Additionally, in a CHO or measurement report, when the serving cell or candidate cell is a mobile cell, the UE must estimate the real-time reference location (mobile reference location) of the cell (e.g., the serving cell and neighboring cells). However, conventional radio systems do not provide a mechanism for signaling relevant information related to the CHO or measurement report to mobile cells.

[0110] This disclosure provides a mechanism relating to UE behavior regarding PDCCH monitoring during RACH handover. Additionally, this disclosure provides a mechanism relating to the estimation and measurement reporting of the real-time reference location of the Earth-based mobile cell in CHO.

[0111] For a no-RACH handover, the HO command can be communicated in an RRC message (e.g., an RRCReconfiguration message) that includes an authorization (CG) for the initial UL transmission to the target cell. The CG can be configured such that each CG timing is mapped to a subset of SSBs. If at least one SSB associated with a CG timing is above a Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) threshold, an SSB is selected for the initial UL transmission carried by a PUSCH, for example, including an RRCReconfigurationComplete message. The UE can indicate the selected SSB to a lower layer (e.g., the PHY) and consider the CG valid. In some embodiments, after sending the initial UL transmission, the UE begins monitoring the target cell's PDCCH to receive the configuration completed by the HO. The UE can use the selected SSB to monitor the PDCCH. In embodiments, the UE uses beam, reference signal, or TCI (Transmission Configuration Indicator) status to monitor the PDCCH. In another embodiment, the UE can monitor the PDCCH quasi-co-located with the selected SSB used for the initial UL transmission.

[0112] In some embodiments, a beam indication can be configured in the HO command. If a beam indication is included or configured in the HO command, the UE can begin monitoring the PDCCH of the target cell based on the beam indication when initiating a no-RACH HO execution. In embodiments, the beam indication can be included or indicated in one or more SSBs or in one or more TCI states. In some implementations, the SSB index or TCI state information configured in the HO command indicates the beam used by the UE to monitor the PDCCH of the target cell. The beam indication can be communicated to lower layers (e.g., the PHY) for PDCCH monitoring. In implementations, the SSB can be selected for the initial UL transmission carried by, for example, a PUSCH including an RRCReconfigurationComplete message.

[0113] In some implementations, when a CG is configured for the initial UL transmission to the target cell, the UE performs the initial UL transmission for RACH-free handover. The UE then begins monitoring the PDCCH using the selected SSB for the initial UL transmission. When a beam indication is configured in the HO command within the RRC message, the UE monitors the PDCCH on the beam indication. If TCI status information indicating the beam used for PDCCH monitoring is configured in the HO command, the UE notifies the lower layer of the TCI status information and begins PDCCH monitoring of the target cell. If an SSB index indicating the beam used for PDCCH monitoring is configured in the HO command, the UE notifies the lower layer of the SSB index and begins PDCCH monitoring of the target cell.

[0114] In CHO, distance events can be configured for CHO execution condition evaluation. In some embodiments, distance events can be configured in the measurement configuration to trigger measurement reports. A distance event is considered to be met or satisfied when the distance between the UE and the configured serving cell reference location is greater than a first threshold (threshold 1) and the distance between the UE and the configured neighboring cell (or candidate cell) reference locations is less than a second threshold (threshold 2).

[0115] When the serving cell is a mobile cell, a reference location and associated reference time can be configured in the distance event. When a neighboring cell (or candidate cell) is a mobile cell, a corresponding reference location and associated reference time can be configured in the distance event. In one embodiment, the reference location and associated reference time of the serving cell may differ from the reference location and reference time (e.g., epoch time) of the serving cell broadcast in the SIB. In another embodiment, the reference location and associated reference time of the serving cell may be the same as the reference location and reference time (e.g., epoch time) of the serving cell broadcast in the SIB. In some embodiments, the reference time may be, for example, but not limited to, the epoch time of the corresponding cell.

[0116] The UE can determine its real-time reference location using a reference location, an associated reference time, and ephemeris associated with the cell (i.e., the serving cell and / or neighboring cells). In some embodiments, the reference location, associated reference time, and ephemeris associated with the serving cell and neighboring cells may be broadcast in the SIB or sent to the UE via a dedicated signal. The reference location, associated reference time, and ephemeris may be included in an event (e.g., condEventD1 or EvnetD1) or in the measurement object configuration.

[0117] For distance events of Earth-based mobile cells, if the ephemeris of the serving cell and neighboring cells (or candidate cells) are configured, and a reference time associated with a reference location is configured, the UE can determine, calculate, or derive the instantaneous and real-time reference location (mobile reference location) based on the reference time, the configured reference location associated with the reference time, and the ephemeris associated with the cell (serving cell or neighboring cell). In this implementation, the instantaneous and real-time reference location (mobile reference location) of the serving cell can be determined based on the epoch time of the serving cell broadcast in the SIB, the configured reference location, and the ephemeris. Furthermore, the instantaneous and real-time reference locations (mobile reference locations) of neighboring cells included in the measurement object configuration can be determined based on the epoch time, the configured reference location, and the ephemeris.

[0118] In some embodiments, for a distance event of a mobile cell, the UE may consider that the entry condition of the distance event is met when both conditions D1-1 and D1-2 specified below are satisfied. Additionally, the UE may consider that the departure condition of the distance event is met when either condition D1-3 or condition D1-4 (specifically, at least one of the two conditions specified below) is satisfied.

[0119] Condition D1-1 (Entering Condition 1)

[0120]

[0121] Condition D1-2 (Entering Condition 2)

[0122]

[0123] Condition D1-3 (Leaving Condition 1)

[0124]

[0125] Condition D1-4 (Leaving Condition 2)

[0126]

[0127] The variables in the condition are defined as follows:

[0128] ●Ml1 is the distance between the UE and the serving cell's instant / real-time reference location for this distance event. For example, it's like referenceLocation1 defined for this event within reportConfigNR, without considering any offset. referenceLocation1 is associated with the serving cell.

[0129] ●Ml2 is the distance between the UE and the instant / real-time reference location of the candidate / neighboring cell for this distance event. For example, it is referenceLocation2 defined for this event in reportConfigNR, without considering any offset. referenceLocation2 is associated with a neighboring cell (or candidate cell).

[0130] ●Hys is the hysteresis parameter for this event. For example, hysteresisLocation defined for this event within reportConfigNR.

[0131] ●Thresh1 is the threshold for this distance event, defined as a distance. For example, Thresh1 can be configured using the parameter distanceThreshFromReference1, where Thresh1 is the reference location configured in reportConfigNR for this distance event using the parameter referenceLocation1.

[0132] ●Thresh2 is a threshold for a distance event that is defined as a distance. For example, Thresh2 can be configured using the parameter distanceThreshFromReference2, which is the reference location configured in reportConfigNR for that distance event using the parameter referenceLocation2.

[0133] ●Ml1 is expressed in meters.

[0134] ●Ml2 is expressed in the same units as Ml1.

[0135] ●Hys is expressed in the same units as Ml1.

[0136] ●Thresh1 is expressed in the same units as Ml1.

[0137] ●Thresh2 is expressed in the same units as Ml1.

[0138] In some embodiments, the reference time for the reference location and auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris and / or common TA) of the Earth mobile cell (e.g., serving cell and / or neighboring / candidate cells) in the CHO configuration or measurement object configuration can be indicated by an absolute time in an RRC message dedicated to the UE. The RRC message may include a measurement object configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell or a reporting event configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell (e.g., eventD1 or condEventD1). In the NTN cell, the indicated time is referenced at the uplink time synchronization reference point (RP). In embodiments, when determining the UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) at the UE, the UE may consider the propagation delay between the UE and the RP. The UE may count the number of UTC seconds in 10ms from 00:00:00 on January 1, 1900 (midnight between Sunday, December 31, 1899 and Monday, January 1, 1900).

[0139] In some embodiments, the epoch time information element (IE) (or IE epoch time) in the RRC message can be reused as the reference time for reference location and auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris or public TA) of the Earth mobile cell (e.g., serving cell and neighboring / candidate cells) in a CHO configuration or measurement object configuration. For neighboring cells, the IE epoch time can be included in the measurement object configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell or in the reporting event configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell. In embodiments, the epoch time can be the start time of a downlink (DL) subframe indicated by a system frame number (SFN) or subframe number. When NTN-Config is provided in a dedicated configuration, the IE epoch time can be mandatory. The epoch time can be based on the timing of the serving cell. For example, the SFN and subframe number indicated in the IE epoch time refer to the SFN and subframe number of the serving cell. The RP used for the epoch time can be the uplink time synchronization RP of the serving cell. When the IE epoch time is included in the NTN-config of a dedicated serving cell configuration (e.g., servingCellConfigComm) used for handover or conditional handover, the epoch time can be based on the timing of the target cell. For example, the SFN and subframe number indicated in the epoch time can refer to the SFN and subframe number of the target cell, and the RP of the epoch time can be the uplink time synchronization RP of the target cell. For the target cell, the UE can consider the epoch time indicated by the SFN and subframe number in this parameter based on the frame closest to the frame that received the message indicating the epoch time.

[0140] In some embodiments, a new IE reference time may be introduced for the reference location and auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris and / or common TA) of a mobile cell (e.g., serving cell or candidate / neighboring cell) in a CHO configuration or measurement object configuration. The IE reference time may be indicated by the SFN or subframe number. For candidate / neighboring cells, the IE reference time may be included in the measurement object configuration associated with the mobile cell or in the reporting event configuration associated with the mobile cell. In embodiments, the reference time may be the start time of a DL subframe indicated by the SFN or subframe number. When an NTN-config is provided in a dedicated configuration, the IE reference time may be mandatory. The IE reference time may be based on the timing of the serving cell. For example, the SFN and subframe number indicated in this parameter refer to the SFN and subframe number of the serving cell. The RP of the reference time may be the uplink time synchronization RP of the serving cell.

[0141] In some embodiments, a reference time (e.g., epoch time) may be conditionally configured in a UE's dedicated RRC message (e.g., RRCReconfiguration message), in a measurement object configuration associated with a mobile cell, or in a reporting event configuration associated with a mobile cell (e.g., eventD1, eventD2, condEventD1, and condEventD2). In embodiments, the reference time may be mandatory if a conditional event (e.g., condEventD1 or condEventD2) is configured for a mobile cell (e.g., serving cell or neighboring / candidate cell) for a CHO. The reference time may be associated with a reference location included in a conditional event for the corresponding cell, indicated by the PCI (Physical Cell Identifier) ​​in the conditional reconfiguration. When the ephemeris of the same cell is also provided in the measurement object configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell or in the reporting event configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell (e.g., eventD1, eventD2, condEventD1, or condEventD2) within a dedicated RRC message (e.g., an RRC reconfiguration message) sent to the UE, the reference time is also applied to the Earth ephemeris. Otherwise, the UE may apply the ephemeris and corresponding epoch time from the system information (e.g., SIB). For example, if the ephemeris of the same cell is not provided in the measurement object configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell or in the reporting event configuration associated with the Earth mobile cell (e.g., eventD1, eventD2, condEventD1, or condEventD2) within a dedicated RRC message (e.g., an RRCReconfiguration message) sent to the UE, the UE may apply the ephemeris and corresponding epoch time broadcast in the SIB.

[0142] In some embodiments, the IE epoch time can be reused as a reference time for reference location or auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris or common TA) of Earth mobile cells (e.g., serving cells and candidate cells) in a CHO configuration or measurement object configuration. For candidate cells that are Earth mobile cells, the epoch time and auxiliary information can be broadcast in SIB 19. In embodiments, the IE epoch time can be based on the timing of the serving cell when the epoch time broadcast in SIB 19 can be used to evaluate CHO execution conditions (e.g., condEventD1) for handover or conditional handover. In embodiments, the SFN or subframe number indicated in the IE epoch time refers to the SFN and subframe number of the serving cell. The RP used for the epoch time is the uplink time synchronization RP of the serving cell. When the IE epoch time is included in the NTN-config in a dedicated serving cell configuration (e.g., servingCellConfigCommon) for handover or conditional handover, the IE epoch time can be based on the timing of the target cell. In embodiments, the SFN and subframe number indicated in the IE refer to the SFN and subframe number of the target cell. The RP used for epoch time is the uplink time synchronization RP of the target cell. For the target cell, the UE can consider the epoch time indicated by the SFN and subframe number in the field based on the frame closest to the frame that received the message indicating the epoch time.

[0143] In some embodiments, the t-Service parameter indicates time information regarding when a cell provided via the NTN quasi-fixed system will cease service in its currently covered area. This parameter applies both to service link handover in the NTN quasi-fixed system and to feeder link handover in both the NTN quasi-fixed system and the Earth Mobile system. The parameter indicates a time multiple of 10 ms after 00:00:00 on January 1, 1900 (midnight between Sunday, December 31, 1899 and Monday, January 1, 1900). The indicated time is referenced at the uplink time synchronization reference point. In embodiments, when determining the UTC time at the UE, the UE may consider the propagation delay between the UE and the RP. The exact stop time may be between the time indicated by the value of the field minus 1 and the time indicated by the value of this parameter. In some embodiments, the UE may receive the t-service parameter included in an RRC IE (such as SIB 19). The UE may initiate a satellite handover with resynchronization based on the time indicated by the t-service parameter broadcast in SIB 19.

[0144] In some embodiments, the effective duration of the reference location or auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris or public TA) of a mobile cell (e.g., serving cell and candidate cell) can be included in the measurement object configuration associated with the mobile cell or the reporting event configuration (e.g., eventD1 or condEventD1) associated with the mobile cell. If an effective duration exists, the UE can start a timer from the start time and set the timer length according to the effective duration. The start time can be indicated by a reference time (or epoch time). When the timer expires or does not run, the UE can stop measuring objects configured with an effective duration. If an effective duration is missing, the UE considers the reference location or auxiliary information (e.g., ephemeris and / or public TA) associated with the mobile cell to be valid.

[0145] Figure 4 Example procedures 400 for measurement reporting according to various embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated. For purposes of explanation and illustration, example procedure 400 may be performed by a UE. Although one or more operations are described or illustrated in a particular order, in other embodiments, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods.

[0146] refer to Figure 4 Procedure 400 may begin in operation 401. In operation 401, the UE receives a system information block (e.g., SIB 19) from the serving cell. The system information block may include the reference location of the serving cell, ephemeris information associated with the serving cell, and reference time (e.g., epoch time) associated with the serving cell.

[0147] In operation 403, the UE receives a report configuration (e.g., RRC IE ReportConfigNR) and a measurement object configuration (e.g., IE MeasOjectNR) from the serving cell. The serving cell is a mobile cell. The report configuration (e.g., IERportConfigNR) can provide specific conditions for triggering a measurement report. In some embodiments, IERportConfigNR may include information (e.g., a threshold) about a distance event used to trigger the measurement report. The measurement object configuration (e.g., IE MeasOjectNR) may include reference locations of neighboring cells, ephemeris information associated with neighboring cells, and reference times (e.g., epoch time) associated with neighboring cells. The neighboring cells are mobile cells.

[0148] In operation 405, the UE determines the real-time reference location (or moving reference location) of the serving cell based on the reference location, ephemeris information, and epoch time broadcast in the system information block. Additionally, the UE determines the real-time reference location (or moving reference location) of neighboring cells based on the reference location, ephemeris information, and epoch time received from the measurement object configuration.

[0149] In operation 407, the UE determines whether the entry conditions for a measurement report event are met. More specifically, the UE determines that the entry conditions are met when i) the distance between the UE and the real-time reference location of the serving cell is higher than a first threshold, and ii) the distance between the UE and the real-time reference location of a neighboring cell is lower than a second threshold. In operation 405, the real-time reference locations of the serving cell and neighboring cells are determined. In operation 403, the first and second thresholds are provided in the IE ReportConfigNR. In another embodiment, the UE determines that the entry conditions are met when both condition D1-1 (described above) and condition D1-2 (described above) are met. When the entry conditions for a measurement report event are met, process 400 proceeds to operation 409. Otherwise, it proceeds to operation 411.

[0150] In some embodiments, the UE may further determine whether a departure condition for a measurement report event is met. More specifically, the UE determines that the departure condition is met when i) the distance between the UE and the real-time reference location of the serving cell is less than a first threshold or ii) the distance between the UE and the real-time reference location of a neighboring cell is greater than a second threshold. In another embodiment, the UE determines that the departure condition is met when at least one of conditions D1-3 (described above) and conditions D1-4 (described above) is met. When the departure condition for a measurement report event is met, process 400 proceeds to operation 413.

[0151] In operation 411, the UE generates a measurement report and sends it to the serving cell. In operation 413, the UE abandons the generation of the measurement report.

[0152] Various embodiments in this disclosure provide a mechanism for estimating the real-time reference location of the serving cell and / or neighboring cells if the serving cell and / or neighboring cells are moving Earth cells in a CHO or a measurement reporting event.

[0153] Various embodiments in this disclosure provide UE behavior regarding PDCCH monitoring in RACH-free or conditional handover.

[0154] Figure 5 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a UE according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 5 The UE can correspond to Figure 3A UE.

[0155] like Figure 5 As shown, the UE according to the embodiment may include a transceiver 510, a memory 520, and a processor (e.g., a controller) 530. The transceiver 510, memory 520, and processor 530 of the UE can operate according to the communication method of the UE described above. However, the components of the UE are not limited thereto. For example, the UE may include more or fewer components than those described above. In addition, the processor 530, transceiver 510, and memory 520 may be implemented as a single chip. Furthermore, the processor 530 may include at least one processor.

[0156] Transceiver 510 collectively refers to both a UE receiver and a UE transmitter, and can transmit / receive signals to / from a base station. Signals transmitted to or received from the base station may include control information and data. Transceiver 510 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting the frequency of the transmitted signal and amplifying the transmitted signal, and an RF receiver for low-noise amplification of the received signal and down-converting the frequency of the received signal. However, this is merely an example of transceiver 510, and the components of transceiver 510 are not limited to RF transmitters and RF receivers.

[0157] In addition, transceiver 510 can receive signals via a wireless channel and output them to processor 530, and can also transmit signals output from processor 530 via a wireless channel.

[0158] The memory 520 can store programs and data required for the operation of the UE. Furthermore, the memory 520 can store control information or data included in signals received by the UE. The memory 520 can be a storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk, CD-ROM, and DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0159] The processor 530 can control a series of processes to enable the UE to operate as described above. For example, the transceiver 510 can receive data signals including control signals transmitted by the base station, and the processor 530 can determine the result of receiving the control signals and data signals transmitted by the base station.

[0160] Figure 6 A block diagram illustrating the structure of a base station according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 The base station can correspond to Figure 3B The base station.

[0161] like Figure 6As shown, a base station according to an embodiment may include a transceiver 610, a memory 620, and a processor (e.g., a controller) 630. The transceiver 610, memory 620, and processor 630 of the base station can operate according to the communication method of the base station described above. However, the components of the network entity are not limited thereto. For example, the base station may include more or fewer components than those described above. Furthermore, the processor 630, transceiver 610, and memory 620 may be implemented as a single chip. Additionally, the processor 630 may include at least one processor.

[0162] Transceiver 610 collectively refers to both a base station receiver and a base station transmitter, and can transmit signals to / receive signals from a terminal. Signals transmitted to or received from a terminal may include control information and data. Transceiver 610 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting the frequency of the transmitted signal and amplifying the transmitted signal, and an RF receiver for low-noise amplification of the received signal and down-converting the frequency of the received signal. However, this is merely an example of transceiver 610, and the components of transceiver 610 are not limited to RF transmitters and RF receivers.

[0163] In addition, transceiver 610 can receive signals via a wireless channel and output them to processor 630, and can also transmit signals output from processor 630 via a wireless channel.

[0164] The memory 620 can store programs and data required for the operation of the base station. Furthermore, the memory 620 can store control information or data included in signals acquired by the base station. The memory 620 can be a storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk, CD-ROM, and DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0165] Processor 630 can control a series of processes to cause network entities to operate as described above. For example, transceiver 610 can receive data signals including control signals sent by the terminal, and processor 630 can determine the result of receiving the control signals and data signals sent by the terminal.

[0166] Unless otherwise specified, references to elements in the singular form are not intended to indicate one and only one, but rather one or more. For example, a “one” module can refer to one or more modules. Without further constraints, elements preceded by “a,” “an,” “the,” or “the” do not preclude the presence of additional identical elements.

[0167] Titles and subtitles (if any) are used for convenience only and do not limit this disclosure. Words of example are used to indicate that they are intended as examples or illustrations. Within the scope of the use of terms such as “comprising,” “having,” etc., such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising,” as interpreted when “comprising” is used as a transitional word in the claims. Relational terms such as “first” and “second” can be used to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between these entities or actions.

[0168] Phrases such as aspect, this aspect, on the other hand, some aspects, one or more aspects, implementation, this implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, embodiment, this embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, configuration, this configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, subject matter, disclosure, this disclosure, other variations thereof, etc., are for convenience and do not imply that disclosures associated with such phrase(s) are essential to the subject matter, or that such disclosures apply to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosures associated with such phrase(s) may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. Disclosures associated with such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa, and this similarly applies to other foregoing phrases.

[0169] The phrase "at least one of..." following a list of items, separated by the terms "and" or "or", modifies the list as a whole rather than for each individual member. The phrase "at least one of..." does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, it allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one item, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each item. For example, each of the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" refers to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0170] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the disclosed steps, operations, or processes is an illustration of exemplary methods. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes may be performed in a different order. Some steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously, or may be performed as part of one or more other steps, operations, or processes. The appended method claims (if any) present elements of various steps, operations, or processes in a sample order and are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented. These may be performed serially, linearly, in parallel, or in a different order. It should be understood that the described instructions, operations, and systems may generally be integrated together in a single software / hardware product or packaged into multiple software / hardware products.

[0171] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concept of the subject matter. This disclosure provides numerous examples of the subject matter, and the subject matter is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles described herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0172] Elements pervading the various aspects described herein, all structural and functional equivalents now or hereafter known to a person skilled in the art, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be offered to the public, whether or not such disclosure is explicitly stated in the claims. No claim element is to be interpreted pursuant to paragraph 6 of 35 U.S.SC § 112 unless it is explicitly stated using the phrase “means for…” or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase “step for…”.

[0173] The title, background art, description of the drawings, abstract, and figures are incorporated herein by reference and are provided as illustrative examples rather than as limiting descriptions. It should be understood at the time of filing that they are not intended to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, the detailed description provides illustrative examples, and various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying this disclosure. The approach of this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention to require more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosure configuration or operation. The appended claims are incorporated herein by reference, wherein each claim is independently claimed as a separate subject matter.

[0174] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but rather to conform to the full scope consistent with the language claims and to cover all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to include subject matter that does not meet the requirements of applicable patent law, nor should they be interpreted in this manner.

Claims

1. A user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the UE comprising: transceiver; and The controller, coupled to the transceiver, is configured to: Receive report configuration from the base station for events that trigger measurement reports. The entry conditions for the event are identified as being met, and The result of sending the measurement report to the base station The entry conditions include a first distance between the UE and a first reference location of the serving cell becoming greater than a first threshold, and a second distance between the UE and a second reference location of a neighboring cell becoming less than a second threshold. The serving cell is a non-terrestrial network (NTN) earth mobile cell.

2. The UE according to claim 1, in, The first reference position is determined based on first information including the first satellite ephemeris and the first epoch time, and The second reference position is determined based on second information, including the second satellite ephemeris and the second epoch time.

3. The UE according to claim 1, in, The first information was received via the System Information Block (SIB), and The second information is received via a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message that includes the configuration of the measurement object.

4. The UE according to claim 1, in, The report configuration includes the first threshold and the second threshold.

5. The UE according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to: The exit condition for the event is identified as being met. The departure conditions include the first distance becoming shorter than the first threshold or the second distance becoming greater than the second threshold.

6. The UE according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to: Receive an RRC reconfiguration message from the base station indicating no random access channel (RACH) handover. When the configuration authorization is set for RRC reconfiguration: Perform initial uplink transmission on the configuration authorization, and Monitor the first physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), and If the configuration authorization is not configured: Indexes identified as having no RACH handover configuration, and The second PDCCH is monitored based on the index.

7. The UE according to claim 6, in, The index is indicated to the lower layer and includes a Synchronization Signal (SS) Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) Block (SSB) Index or a Transmission Configuration Indicator (TCI) Status Identifier (ID).

8. A method performed by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: Receive report configuration from the base station for events that trigger measurement reports; The entry conditions for identifying the event are met; as well as The result of sending the measurement report to the base station The entry conditions include a first distance between the UE and a first reference location of the serving cell becoming greater than a first threshold, and a second distance between the UE and a second reference location of a neighboring cell becoming less than a second threshold. The serving cell is a non-terrestrial network (NTN) earth mobile cell.

9. The method according to claim 8, in, The first reference position is determined based on first information including the first satellite ephemeris and the first epoch time, and The second reference position is determined based on second information, including the second satellite ephemeris and the second epoch time.

10. The method according to claim 8, in, The first information was received via the System Information Block (SIB), and The second information is received via a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message that includes the configuration of the measurement object.

11. The method according to claim 8, in, The report configuration includes the first threshold and the second threshold.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: The exit condition for the event is identified as being met. The departure conditions include the first distance becoming shorter than the first threshold or the second distance becoming greater than the second threshold.

13. The method of claim 8, further comprising: Receive an RRC reconfiguration message from the base station indicating that no random access channel (RACH) handover has been configured; When the configuration authorization is set for RRC reconfiguration: Perform initial uplink transmission on the configuration authorization; and Monitor the first physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), and If authorization is not configured: Indexes identified as having no RACH handover configuration; and The second PDCCH is monitored based on the index.

14. The method according to claim 13, in, The index is indicated to the lower layer and includes a Synchronization Signal (SS) Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) Block (SSB) Index or a Transmission Configuration Indicator (TCI) Status Identifier (ID).

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