Operate according to time division duplex mode

Abstract

According to example aspects of the present disclosure, a method is provided that includes determining, by an apparatus, a default time division duplex, TDD, pattern and a plurality of additional TDD patterns, operating, by the apparatus, according to the default TDD pattern, determining, by the apparatus, a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring occasion for monitoring a physical downlink control channel, PDCCH, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation, determining, by the apparatus, a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD patterns, wherein the repetition configuration comprises at least one repetition number, monitoring, by the apparatus, the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration, and determining, by the apparatus, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to the at least one repetition number based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring occasion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example embodiments generally relate to Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode, and more specifically to operation according to such mode, for example, in a cellular communication network. Background Technology

[0002] In cellular communication networks, User Equipment (UE) can operate in Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode. The assumption behind TDD operation is that the devices involved (such as UEs) operate according to the half-duplex principle: at any given moment, they can either transmit or receive (i.e., not simultaneously). The rules defined for TDD can also be applied to Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) scenarios, for example, for low-cost UEs without duplex filters and operating according to half-duplex rules. When a UE operates in TDD mode, it is in receive mode when the radio node is transmitting, and in transmit mode when the radio node is receiving. TDD mode can be used in various cellular communication networks, such as cellular networks operating under 5G radio access technology. 5G radio access technology can also be referred to as New Radio (NR) access technology. The 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) has developed standards for 5G / NR and future radio access technologies and requires enhancements related to TDD. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The subject matter of the independent claims is provided in several respects. Several example embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0004] The scope of protection sought by the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure is set forth in the independent claims. Exemplary embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims are to be construed as examples useful for understanding the various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: receive a first System Information Block (SIB) and a second SIB; determine a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB, and determine a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; operate according to the default TDD mode; determine at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI) based on the second SIB; and determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the Group Common DCI is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity. The apparatus may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to at least: determine a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and a plurality of additional TDD modes; operate according to the default TDD mode; determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is adapted to a TDD configuration; determine a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number; monitor the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and determine, based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the at least one repetition number.

[0007] According to one aspect, a method is provided, the method comprising: receiving a first System Information Block (SIB) and a second SIB by a device; determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB and determining a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; operating the device according to the default TDD mode; determining, based on the second SIB, at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI); and determining, based on whether the Group Common DCI is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The device may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0008] According to one aspect, a method is provided, comprising: determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and a plurality of additional TDD modes by means of a device; operating the device according to the default TDD mode; determining a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation; determining a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes by means of the device, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number; monitoring the PDCCH by means of the device according to the monitoring configuration; and determining whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity and according to the at least one repetition number. The device may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided comprising: receiving a first System Information Block (SIB) and a second SIB; determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB and determining a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; operating according to the default TDD mode; determining at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI) based on the second SIB; and determining whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the Group Common DCI is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity. The apparatus may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0010] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided comprising: determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and a plurality of additional TDD modes; operating according to the default TDD mode; determining a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is adapted to a TDD configuration; determining a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number; monitoring the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and determining, based on whether the apparatus is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity and according to the at least one repetition number, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The apparatus may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a device, causes the device to perform the following: receive a first System Information Block (SIB) and a second SIB; determine a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB, and determine a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; operate according to the default TDD mode; determine, by the device, at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI) based on the second SIB; and determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the Group Common DCI is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity. The device may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0012] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by an apparatus, causes the apparatus to perform the following: determine a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and a plurality of additional TDD modes; operate according to the default TDD mode; determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation; determine a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number; monitor the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and determine, based on whether the apparatus receives the PDCCH during at least one monitoring opportunity and according to the at least one repetition number, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The apparatus may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0013] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided having a set of computer-readable instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause a device to perform at least the following: receiving a first system information block (SIB) and a second SIB; determining a default time-division duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB and determining a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; operating according to the default TDD mode; determining, by the device, at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring group common downlink control information (DCI) based on the second SIB; and determining whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the group common DCI is received during the at least one monitoring opportunity. The device may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0014] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided having a set of computer-readable instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause a device to perform at least the following: determine a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and a plurality of additional TDD modes; operate according to the default TDD mode; determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation; determine a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number; monitor the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and determine, based on whether the device is receiving the PDCCH during at least one monitoring opportunity and according to the at least one repetition number, whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The device may be a user equipment or a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 Examples of network scenarios according to at least some example embodiments are shown; Figure 2 Examples of dynamic TDD patterns according to at least some example embodiments are shown; Figure 3 Examples of TDD configuration adaptation according to at least some example embodiments are shown; Figure 3a Showing more details Figure 3 The first part; Figure 3b Showing more details Figure 3 Part Two; Figure 4 Signaling diagrams according to at least some example embodiments are shown; Figure 5 An example apparatus capable of supporting at least some of the example embodiments is shown; Figure 6 A flowchart of a first method according to at least some example embodiments is shown; Figure 7 A flowchart of a second method according to at least some example embodiments is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0016] Embodiments of this disclosure provide enhancements for operation in Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode. More specifically, embodiments of this disclosure enable dynamic selection of the TDD mode to be used without causing unnecessary signaling overhead and significant memory consumption. The radio network node can first indicate a default TDD mode and multiple additional TDD modes to the user equipment (UE). The UE can then begin operation according to the default TDD mode. Subsequently, the radio network node can use Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI) to instruct the UE that it should begin operation according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes. Therefore, the UE can determine whether to begin operation according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes based on whether it has received the Group Common DCI. Note that the radio network node may have previously transmitted the Group Common DCI and System Information Block (SIB).

[0017] Therefore, unnecessary signaling can be avoided because the radio node does not need to send group common DCI if the UE does not need to switch to using one of the multiple additional TDD modes. The UE may need to store the TDD mode in its memory, but at least compared to the solution in 5G / NR, the significant memory consumption at the UE can be avoided in any way.

[0018] Furthermore, rules can be provided to the UE to define how it should operate in the absence of a Group Common DCI (i.e., when the UE does not receive a Group Common DCI during the monitoring period). Such rules may be needed in both cases: when the radio network node does not send a Group Common DCI, and when the radio network node sends a Group Common DCI but the UE does not receive it correctly. Even if UE 110 is not part of the Dynamic TDD mode adaptation, but in this case, UE 110 may not be configured to monitor a Group Common DCI, the corresponding rules can still be applied to flexible resources.

[0019] Figure 1 Examples of network scenarios according to at least some example embodiments are shown. Figure 1 In an example scenario, a beam-based wireless communication system may exist, comprising a UE 110, a wireless network node 120, and a core network 130. The UE 110 may use beam 115 to connect to the wireless network node 120 simultaneously or one at a time via the air interface.

[0020] UE 110 may include, for example, smartphones, cellular phones, machine-to-machine (M2M) nodes, machine-type communication (MTC) nodes, Internet of Things (IoT) nodes, automotive telemetry units, laptops, tablets, or virtually any kind of suitable wireless terminal, such as fixed wireless access nodes or relay nodes. Figure 1 In the example system, UE 110 can wirelessly communicate with radio node 120 via at least one beam 115. Radio node 120 can be considered a serving node for UE 110, and a cell of radio node 120 can be a serving cell for UE 110.

[0021] In some example embodiments, the network scenario may include a relay node in place of or in addition to UE 110 and / or radio network node 120. For example, a repeater may be used when operating on millimeter-wave frequencies but also on lower frequencies that at least include frequency range 1 FR1 and new frequency bands. One example of a relay node may be an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node. An IAB node may also be referred to as a self-backhaul repeater. Another example of a repeater may be an out-of-band repeater. Typically, a relay node may include two parts: 1) The Distributed Unit (DU) portion can facilitate the functionality of a wireless network node 120 (such as a gNB). The DU portion can facilitate access links, also known as sub-links. Therefore, in some example embodiments, the DU portion of a repeater can be referred to as wireless network node 120, and the DU can perform the tasks of wireless network node 120; 2) The mobile terminal MT can facilitate the functionality of UE 110. The MT portion can facilitate the backhaul link, also known as the parent link, which can be a communication link between a parent node (DU) of the DU portion of radio network node 120 and a repeater such as an IAB node. In some example embodiments, the MT portion can be referred to as UE 110 and perform the tasks of UE 110.

[0022] The air interface between UE 110 and radio network node 120 can be configured according to the supported Radio Access Technology (RAT) for both UE 110 and radio network node 120. Examples of cellular RATs include Long Term Evolution (LTE), New Radio (NR), which can also be referred to as 5G, 6G, and MulteFire. UE 110 and radio network node 120 can be part of the Radio Access Network (RAN).

[0023] For example, in the context of LTE, radio node 120 may be referred to as an eNB, while in the context of NR, radio node 120 may be referred to as a gNB. In some example embodiments, radio node 120 may be referred to as a Transmitting and Receiving Point (TRP), or multiple TRPs may be co-located or non-co-located. In any case, the example embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to any particular wireless technology. Rather, the example embodiments can be utilized in any wireless communication system in which dynamic selection of TDD mode will be desired.

[0024] Wireless network node 120 can connect to core network 130 directly or via at least one intermediate node through interface 125. Core network 130 can also connect to another network (…) via interface 135. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) Coupled, the wireless network node 120 can obtain connectivity to other networks, for example, via a global interconnection network. The wireless network node 120 can be connected directly to the core network 130 or another core network, either directly or via at least one intermediate node. In some example embodiments, the core network 130 may include core network nodes.

[0025] Embodiments of this disclosure enable coordination of link directions (DL and UL transmissions) between UE 110 and radio network node 120 when using TDD. This coordination requires dynamic signaling, such as higher-layer signaling. Furthermore, the relevant UE behavior needs to be defined. More specifically, embodiments of this disclosure can be used for dynamic TDD frame structure adaptation, for example, in 6G scenarios such as Network Energy Saving (NES). Embodiments of this disclosure can be further utilized to improve 5G baselines, for example, to avoid excessive complexity introduced in 5G. 5G can also be referred to as New Radio (NR).

[0026] In NR, the time slot allocation principles are defined in Section 11.1 of the 3GPP Standard Specification TS38.213. In NR, time slot allocation is performed by the following signals in a hierarchical order: 1. Cell-specific radio resource control (RRC) configuration: TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon; (Fixed) Periodic (Mode 1, Mode 2) configuration of DL and UL slots / symbols. Depending on the configuration, Mode 1 only, or both Mode 1 and Mode 2 may exist. 2. UE-specific RRC configuration: TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationDedicated; Per-slot configuration of DL and UL symbols; Define / override UL & DL symbols in time slots that are not defined as UL or DL ​​by the periodic cell-specific configuration; 3. Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH): Provides DCI format 2_0 for slot format indication SFI (see TS38.213, Section 11.1.1). Define / override UL & DL symbols in time slots where UL and DL are not defined by RRC (cell-specific configuration or UE-specific configuration).

[0027] In addition to these three options, UL licensing can convert the corresponding flexible resources to UL and DL licensing to DL.

[0028] Furthermore, in the case of NR, the corresponding RRC signaling is then defined in the 3GPP standard specification TS 38.331: TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon is provided as the TDD-UL-DL-ConfigCommon information element; and TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationDedicated is provided as the TDD-UL-DL-ConfigDedicated information element.

[0029] In NR, time slots and / or symbols not defined as UL or DL ​​are considered flexible. Specific rules are defined for the operation of (i) fixed UL / DL symbols defined by RRC, (ii) UL / DL symbols defined by dynamic SFI (DCI format 2_0), and (iii) flexible symbols. Flexible symbols can also be used to facilitate link direction switching for UE 110. Configuration can be done in various configurations, such as for symbols in full and partial time slots, or for symbols (covering symbols in full and partial time slots), where a full time slot contains a single resource type (DL or UL) and a partial time slot contains at least two resource types (DL, FL, UL).

[0030] However, in the NR context, dynamic SFI causes various problems. For example, one issue is that DCI 2_0 involves a very significant RRC signaling burden (up to >1 MBits / serving cell). Furthermore, the large number of patterns, support for very long patterns, and excessive configurability (per timeslot) will lead to significant memory consumption at UE 110. In NR, the large number of combinations also makes comprehensive UE testing difficult. Therefore, at least for 6G, a more practical approach is needed to replace the current NR framework, and smooth coexistence with NR is a key requirement.

[0031] Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure enable dynamic selection of the TDD mode to be used. The radio network node 120 can send a first System Information Block (SIB) (such as SIB1) and a second SIB (such as SIBx) to the UE 110. That is, the second SIB does not need to be SIB2, but it can be any SIB (e.g., SIB24). The UE 110 can then determine a default TDD mode based on the first SIB and determine multiple additional TDD modes based on the second SIB. Thereafter, the UE 110 can begin operating according to the default TDD mode. In other words, the UE 110 can switch between transmitting and receiving based on the default TDD mode.

[0032] An SIB can be sent to a UE by broadcasting an SIB from a wireless network node 120, where broadcasting includes transmissions that are not addressed to a specific receiving node. On the other hand, unicast transmissions can refer to transmissions addressed to a specific receiving node (such as UE 110).

[0033] UE 110 can also determine the monitoring timing for monitoring group common DCI based on the second SIB. Group common DCI can be used to deliver control information to more than one UE in a single DCI message (such as DCI format 2_0). That is, group common DCI can be designed to deliver control information to more than one UE in a single DCI message. During the monitoring timing, if such a transmission is performed, UE 110 can be configured to attempt to receive group common DCI transmissions by radio node 120. Group common DCI can be monitored according to a common search space type with (or predefined) PDCCH candidates configured with SIBx and monitoring timing. The common search space can be associated with a control channel resource configuration applied to SIB1 reception (this can be referred to as CORESET0).

[0034] Depending on whether the radio network node 120 transmits the group common DCI during the monitoring period, the UE 110 can determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. For example, if the UE 110 receives the group common DCI during the monitoring period, the UE 110 can operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The radio network node 120 can indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes in the group common DCI. Alternatively, if the UE 110 does not receive the group common DCI during the monitoring period, the UE 110 can operate according to the default TDD mode.

[0035] Alternatively or additionally, UE 110 can determine a default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes. UE 110 can then operate according to the default TDD mode. UE 110 can also determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the PDCCH, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to TDD configuration adaptation. That is, the monitoring configuration may include a configuration for TDD adaptation. UE 110 can also determine a repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one repetition number, and monitors the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration. UE 110 can then determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the PDCCH is received during at least one monitoring opportunity, according to the at least one repetition number.

[0036] In some example embodiments, mode adaptation can be associated with a predefined time period (such as a time period of duration NxP (or Nx[P+P2]) and having a predefined start time (e.g., the start of a radio frame). That is, UE 110 can determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes within the predefined time period and operate accordingly when configured. One or more monitoring opportunities may exist associated with a single predefined time period (such as NxP). Blind detection of group common DCIs can be a continuous process (for active UEs). That is, if UE 110 does not find a group common DCI within a time period, it can try again in the next time period.

[0037] In some example embodiments, the first SIB can be SIB1, and the second SIB can be another SIB, such as SIBx. Alternatively, the second SIB can be SIB1, and the first SIB can be another SIB. Alternatively, the first SIB and the second SIB can be the same. That is, the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes can be indicated via the same SIB but using different information elements (IEs).

[0038] In some example embodiments, TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon (i.e., cell-specific mode) can be used to configure the cell-specific mode of the radio network node 120 for TDD UL / DL splitting. However, instead of configuring the slot format separately for each slot of each slot format combination, multiple additional TDD modes can be configured by the radio network node 120 for the UE 110. For example, up to a certain number of modes can be defined based on the default TDD mode (such as mode 1 (or mode 1 + mode 2)). [K] Multiple TDD modes can be constructed to dynamically select one, for example, using the principles that can be used to define TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon.

[0039] In some example embodiments, UE 110 may determine the UL symbol and DL symbol of the TDD default mode and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on a second SIB. UE 110 may also determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following, to allow time to change the link direction of the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes: Option 1: UE 110 may identify some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode as the time periods of the multiple additional TDD modes. For example, DL and UL symbols may be indicated by radio node 120. The remainder may be considered flexible by UE 110, whereby UE 110 may transmit or receive during the period based on predefined rules. It is also expected that UE 110 will perform link direction switching (Rx during the flexible symbol period). Tx and Tx Rx (both). Option 2: UE 110 may determine the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes. For example, the DL symbol and UL symbol may be indicated by the radio network node 120. The remainder may be considered as a protection period, during which UE 110 may neither transmit nor receive; Option 3: UE 110 can determine the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB. For example, in addition to the DL symbol and UL symbol, the radio node 120 can also indicate the time period (symbol), while the remaining symbols can be considered flexible by UE 110.

[0040] In some example embodiments, a nested structure can be utilized, where the radio network node 120 can indicate to the UE 110 in a second SIB (SIB x) how to use the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode in the context of the plurality of additional TDD modes. The UE 110 can then determine that the UL and DL symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same. The UE 110 can also determine, based on the second SIB, the flexible system using the TDD mode for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes. In some example embodiments, the radio network node 120 can adapt the flexible symbols and use TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon to indicate those symbols, but not the DL and UL symbols. In other words, the DL and UL symbols in TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon can also remain DL and UL symbols after dynamic SFI adaptation; that is, the DL and UL symbols can be the same for the default TDD mode and all of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0041] In some example embodiments, a mode extension framework can be utilized. The radio network node 120 may send a repeated configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes to the UE 110 in a second SIB (SIBx), wherein the repeated configuration may include at least one number of repetitions. The UE 110 can then determine the repeated configuration based on the second SIB and, when configured during a monitoring period, operate according to at least one number of repetitions. In some example embodiments, the radio network node 120 may send an indication to the UE 110 for indicating at least one number of repetitions (…). N ).For example, N=1 It can refer to a single pattern (without repetition). N=2 It can refer to a pattern plus a single repetition, and N=3 It can refer to a pattern plus two repetitions, etc.

[0042] In some example embodiments, when configured during monitoring, the UE 110 can operate by repeating one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeated configuration of the default TDD mode. That is, the plurality of additional TDD modes to be selected can default to cover a mode of length P (or, in the case of a two-part cascaded mode such as in 5G, a length of P+P2).

[0043] In some example embodiments, when configured during monitoring, UE 110 can operate by repeating multiple additional TDD modes according to a repetition count. That is, a length of... P (or P+P2 )of N A recurring TDD pattern, the formation of which is selected by dynamic signaling. K [ ] TDD modes. In some example embodiments, in dynamic mode N After this repetition, if UE 110 receives an indication (e.g., via group common DCI), UE 110 can fall back to using the default TDD mode, or have... N The next dynamically indicated TDD mode in the plurality of additional TDD modes is repeated. The number of repetitions N can be explicitly indicated by a configuration change message (Dynamic SFI), or N It can be part of the mode configuration.

[0044] In some example embodiments, when configured during monitoring periods, UE 110 can operate by repeating multiple additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the multiple additional TDD modes. That is, the extension can be part of the TDD mode configuration and can be obtained. K Each mode enables configuration K*N A TDD pattern instead of K Each mode.

[0045] In some example embodiments, the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes may be the same as the length of the default TDD mode. Therefore, UE 110 can determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

[0046] In some example embodiments, the plurality of additional TDD patterns based on the second SIB can also be based on the patterns of the first SIB. That is, the plurality of additional TDD patterns can be created based on the principles used to define the SIB1 patterns.

[0047] In some example embodiments, the period for determining the timing of monitoring group public DCI can be based on the pattern extension framework. For example, the period for a certain monitoring configuration defined relative to a known reference (e.g., the start of a pattern) can be defined as... N .

[0048] Figure 2 Examples of dynamic TDD patterns according to at least some example embodiments are shown. Figure 2 In this code, the default TDD mode is represented by 210. Furthermore, the DL symbol for default mode 210 is represented by 212, the flexible symbol for default mode 210 is represented by 214, and the UL symbol for default mode 210 is represented by 216.

[0049] The first TDD mode among the multiple additional TDD modes is represented by 220. The DL symbol for the first TDD mode 220 is represented by 222, the flexible symbol for the first TDD mode 220 is represented by 224, and the UL symbol for the first TDD mode 220 is represented by 226. The second TDD mode among the multiple additional TDD modes is represented by 230. The DL symbol for the second TDD mode 230 among the multiple additional TDD modes is represented by 232, the flexible symbol for the second TDD mode 230 is represented by 234, and the UL symbol for the second TDD mode 230 is represented by 236.

[0050] like Figure 2 As shown, in the case of additional TDD modes, the flexible symbol 214 of the default mode 210 can be used differently. In the case of the first TDD mode 220 of the plurality of additional modes, a portion of the flexible symbol 214 of the default mode 210 can be used as the DL symbol 222. In the case of the second TDD mode 230 of the plurality of additional modes, a portion of the flexible symbol 214 of the default mode 210 can be used as the UL symbol 236.

[0051] Figure 3 Examples of TDD configuration adaptation based on at least some example embodiments are shown. Figure 3a Showing more details Figure 3 The first part, and Figure 3b Showing more details Figure 3 The second part. Figure 3b shown Figure 3 The second part should be placed Figure 3a shown Figure 3 Next to the first part, making Figure 3b On the left side Figure 3a To the right of, thus forming a complete Figure 3 .

[0052] and Figure 2 The same situation applies, in Figure 3 In this example, the default TDD mode is represented by 210, the first TDD mode among multiple additional TDD modes is represented by 220, and the second TDD mode among multiple additional TDD modes is represented by 230. The default TDD mode 210 can be based on the first SIB, for example, it can be defined according to the conventional TDD-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon (in this example, mode length = P = 5 ms) configuration.

[0053] Multiple additional TDD patterns can be defined based on a second SIB (such as SIBx). For example, SIBx can be used to configure 6 additional TDD patterns as well as pattern repetition. Each valid TDD configuration (#0…#6, K=7) can be defined by a length of 310. P (Dynamic TDD configuration length = 4P The signaling mode of ) N=4x This is obtained through repeated iterations. The adaptation period for TDD configuration can be... 4P (= 20 ms). SIBx can also be used to define PDCCH monitoring configurations for group public DCIs (such as DCI 2_0).

[0054] exist Figure 3 In the examples, for each TDD mode ( 4P That is, for each TDD mode from #0 to #7, there are four monitoring opportunities. Monitoring opportunities occur in... Figure 3The value is represented by 310(x). Multiple monitoring opportunities 310 can be utilized to provide the necessary reliability for transmitting the group common DCI used for TDD configuration. Note that the transmission of the group common DCI (indicating dynamic SFI) can be an optional feature of the radio network node 120. In some example embodiments, the UE 110 may have the necessary behavior defined for all resource types (DL, UL, flexible, protection), and in this case, the transmission of the group common DCI will not be required.

[0055] In some example embodiments, timing can be considered for configuring TDD mode. For example, timing relationships can make it possible if in TDD mode [ Z During and no later than from TDD mode Z The beginning of ] Y If the UE 110 receives a common DCI in a time slot group, then the UE can adjust the TDD mode. Z Otherwise, UE 110 can adjust the TDD mode. Z+1 ].

[0056] UE 110 requires a certain processing time for the group's common DCI. Therefore, before the mode switch occurs (from mode...) Z-1 To mode Z Sending a group common DCI is beneficial. On the other hand, to improve robustness, it is good to provide more than one monitoring opportunity per mode. To provide more options, it is also considered to send the group common DCI at the beginning of mode Z (adjusting mode). Z This is a scenario where a fixed DL symbol is present at the beginning of the mode, allowing the UE 110 time to process the group common DCI before an effective handover affecting flexible resources occurs.

[0057] The parameter defining the UE processing time can be expressed as: Y .exist Figure 3 In the example, Y=2 However, it should be noted that Y Negative values ​​are also possible. If in Y One time slot (relative to the mode boundary) Z-1 , Z If a group receives a public DCI beforehand, it will affect the pattern. Z Otherwise, it will affect the pattern. Z+1 .

[0058] In some example embodiments, in addition to a group common DCI such as DCI 2_0, a unicast DCI may be included in the TDD configuration indication (e.g., 1 to 3 bits). That is, the radio node 120 may send a unicast DCI to the UE 110, wherein the unicast DCI includes an indication of whether to begin operation according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. Therefore, when a group common DCI and a unicast DCI are received during a monitoring period, the UE 110 can determine to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. In other words, when the contents of the group common DCI and the unicast DCI are equal, the UE 110 can assume that the indicated TDD mode is the same. This scheme can be used to further improve reliability. If the indication contains a conflict, the UE 110 can operate according to the most recent DCI or according to a DCI defined as having higher priority (e.g., unicast).

[0059] In some example embodiments, the monitoring configuration may be related to unicast DCI. That is, UE 110 may monitor the PDCCH during at least one monitoring period and determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether unicast DCI is received on the PDCCH during the monitoring period. In some example embodiments, the monitoring configuration is related to unicast DCI and at least one of the following scenarios: Downlink grants received by UE 110 via a predefined public search space; Uplink grants received by UE 110 via a predefined public search space; Downlink grants received by UE 110 via a predefined user-specific search space; or Uplink grants received by UE 110 via a predefined user-specific search space.

[0060] A UE-specific search space (USS) can be defined as a search space dedicated to each specific UE and notified to UE 110 via an RRC signaling message. Therefore, UE 110 will need to complete an RRC establishment to obtain information about the USS. The USS can be used to adapt to TDD configurations with unicast DCI and non-compact (or configurable) DCI formats such as DCI formats 0_1 (uplink grant) and 1_1 (downlink grant).

[0061] A common search space (CSS) can be defined as a specific search space in which each UE needs (or at least can) search for signals for each UE (e.g., PDCCH for SIB), or a signaling message applied to each UE before establishing a dedicated channel for a specific UE (e.g., PDCCH used during RACH procedures) or a specific group of UEs. For example, UE 110 may need to detect PDCCH for SIB1 reception or various DCIs (PDCCHs) (e.g., DCIs for Msg2 / Msg4 reception) during RACH procedures. CSS can be used to adapt TDD configurations by utilizing group common DCIs (such as DCI format 2_0) and / or unicast DCIs and compact (or non-configurable) DCI formats (such as DCI formats 0_0 (uplink grant) and 1_0 (downlink grant)).

[0062] The configuration signaling splitting between a first SIB, such as SIB1, and a second SIB, such as SIBx, is exemplary. However, if the cell supports initial access, it may be necessary to broadcast at least one mode to enable initial access for UE 110 in the cell of radio node 120. It is possible that cell configuration in 6G can be obtained via UE-specific messaging, and the configuration seen by UE 110, even if cell-specific in practice, can be considered as a point-to-point configuration messaging from radio node 120 to UE 110. Specific mode repetition can be considered optional, and if adopted, the number of mode repetitions, mode-specific configurations, common configurations across all modes, or values ​​fixed by the standard can be dynamically indicated.

[0063] Figure 4 A first signaling diagram according to at least some example embodiments is shown. UE110 and wireless network node120 are arranged from left to right on the vertical axis. Time progresses from top to bottom.

[0064] At step 402, the wireless network node 120 may send a first SIB to the UE 110, wherein the first SIB indicates the default TDD mode. At step 404, the wireless network node 120 may send a second SIB to the UE 110, wherein the second SIB indicates the plurality of additional TDD modes and the monitoring timing for monitoring the common DCI of the monitoring group.

[0065] Therefore, UE 110 can receive a first SIB and a second SIB from radio network node 120. At step 406, UE 110 can determine a default TDD mode based on the first SIB and determine multiple additional TDD modes based on the second SIB. At step 408, UE 110 can operate according to the default TDD mode. As configured, radio network node 120 can also determine that UE 110 operates according to the default TDD mode.

[0066] At step 410, UE 110 can determine at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the group's common DCI based on the second SIB. The at least one monitoring opportunity may not be a single opportunity, but rather periodic opportunities. Therefore, for each mode ( N* P There may be multiple monitoring opportunities. The wireless network node 120 can determine whether to configure UE 110 by sending a group common DCI during the monitoring opportunity to configure UE 110 to start operating according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes.

[0067] At optional step 412, UE 110 may receive a group common DCI from radio network node 120 during the monitoring opportunity (MO). If UE 110 receives a group common DCI during the MO and the group common DCI indicates one of the plurality of additional TDD modes, then UE 110 may begin operating according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes. However, if UE 110 does not receive a group common DCI during the MO, then UE 110 may continue operating according to the default TDD mode.

[0068] At step 414, UE 110 can therefore determine whether to begin operating according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether a group common DCI is received during MO.

[0069] Figure 5 An example apparatus capable of supporting at least some of the example embodiments is shown. A device 500 is shown, which may include, for example, a UE 110 or a wireless network node 120, or a control device configured to potentially control its functionality when installed therein. Device 500 includes a processor 510, which may include, for example, a single-core or multi-core processor, wherein a single-core processor includes one processing core, and a multi-core processor includes more than one processing core. Processor 510 typically includes a control device. Processor 510 may include more than one processor. Processor 510 may be a control device. Processor 510 may include at least one application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Processor 510 may include at least one field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Processor 510 may be a component for performing method steps in device 500. Processor 510 may be configured at least partially by computer instructions to perform actions.

[0070] A processor may include, or be configured as, one or more circuit systems configured to perform stages of the methods according to the exemplary embodiments described herein. As used herein, the term “circuit” may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) a hardware-only circuit implementation, such as an implementation only in analog and / or digital circuit systems; and (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as, if applicable: (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry with software / firmware; and (ii) any part of a hardware processor having software (including digital signal processors, software, and memory that work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions); and (c) hardware circuitry and / or a processor, such as a microprocessor or a portion thereof, that requires software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may be absent when operation is not required.

[0071] This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used in this application, the term circuit system also covers implementations of hardware circuitry or processors (or processors) or portions thereof and their accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuit system also covers, for example and if applicable to a particular claim element, baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices or other computing or network devices.

[0072] Device 500 may include memory 520. Memory 520 may include random access memory and / or permanent memory. Memory 520 may include at least one RAM chip. For example, memory 520 may include solid-state, magnetic, optical, and / or holographic memory. Memory 520 may be at least partially accessible by processor 510. Memory 520 may be at least partially included in processor 510. Memory 520 may be a component for storing information. Memory 520 may include computer instructions configured to be executed by processor 510. When computer instructions configured to cause processor 510 to perform certain actions are stored in memory 520, and device 500 as a whole is configured to operate under the guidance of processor 510 using computer instructions from memory 520, processor 510 and / or at least one of its processing cores may be considered to be configured to perform said certain actions. Memory 520 may be at least partially included in processor 510. Memory 520 may be at least partially external to device 500, but accessible by device 500.

[0073] Device 500 may include a transmitter 530. Device 500 may include a receiver 540. Transmitter 530 and receiver 540 may be configured to transmit and receive information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard, respectively. Transmitter 530 may include more than one transmitter. Receiver 540 may include more than one receiver. For example, transmitter 530 and / or receiver 540 may be configured to operate according to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and / or 5G / NR standards.

[0074] Device 500 may include a near-field communication (NFC) transceiver 550. The NFC transceiver 550 may support at least one NFC technology, such as Bluetooth, Wibree, or similar technologies.

[0075] Device 500 may include a user interface (UI) 560. UI 560 may include at least one of a display, keyboard, touchscreen, vibrator arranged to signal to the user by causing device 500 to vibrate, speaker, and microphone. The user may be able to operate device 500 via UI 560, for example, to accept incoming telephone calls, initiate telephone or video calls, browse the internet, manage digital files stored in memory 520 or accessible in the cloud via transmitter 530 and receiver 540 or via NFC transceiver 550, and / or play games.

[0076] Device 500 may include or be arranged to accept a user identity module 570. User identity module 570 may include, for example, a subscriber identity module SIM card that can be installed in device 500. User identity module 570 may include subscription information identifying the user of device 500. User identity module 570 may include password information that can be used to verify the identity of the user of device 500 and / or facilitate the encryption of transmitted information and billing of communications performed by the user of device 500 via device 500.

[0077] Processor 510 may be equipped with a transmitter arranged to output information from processor 510 to other devices included in device 500 via electrical leads within device 500. Such a transmitter may include a serial bus transmitter arranged to output information to memory 520 for storage, for example, via at least one electrical lead. Alternatively, the transmitter may include a parallel bus transmitter. Similarly, processor 510 may include a receiver arranged to receive information from other devices included in device 500 via electrical leads within device 500. Such a receiver may include a serial bus receiver arranged to receive information from receiver 540, for example, via at least one electrical lead, for processing within processor 510. Alternatively, the receiver may include a parallel bus receiver.

[0078] Device 500 may include Figure 5 Other devices not shown. For example, in the case where device 500 includes a smartphone, it may include at least one digital camera. Some devices 500 may include a rear camera and a front camera, wherein the rear camera may be designed for digital photography and the front camera for video calling. Device 500 may include a fingerprint sensor arranged to at least partially authenticate the user of device 500. In some example embodiments, device 500 lacks at least one of the above-mentioned devices. For example, some devices 500 may lack an NFC transceiver 550 and / or a user identity module 570.

[0079] Processor 510, memory 520, transmitter 530, receiver 540, NFC transceiver 550, UI 560, and / or user identity module 570 can be interconnected in various ways via electrical leads within device 500. For example, each of the above devices can be individually connected to the main bus within device 500 to allow the devices to exchange information. However, as those skilled in the art will understand, this is merely an example, and various ways of interconnecting at least two of the above devices can be chosen depending on the exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiment.

[0080] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a first method according to at least some example embodiments. The stages of the first method shown can be performed by the UE 110 or by a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0081] The first method may include, at step 610, receiving a first System Information Block (SIB) and a second SIB. The first method may further include, at step 620, determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB, and determining a plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB. The first method may further include, at step 630, operating according to the default TDD mode. At step 640, the first method may include, based on the second SIB, determining at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring Group Common Downlink Control Information (DCI). At step 650, the method may include, based on whether the Group Common DCI is received during at least one monitoring opportunity, determining whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0082] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a second method according to at least some example embodiments. The stages of the second method shown can be performed by the UE 110 or by a control device configured to control its functions when installed therein.

[0083] The second method may include, at step 710, determining a default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and multiple additional TDD modes. The second method may also include, at step 720, operating according to the default TDD mode. Furthermore, the second method may include, at step 730, determining a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to TDD configuration adaptation. At step 740, the second method may include determining a repetition configuration of the multiple additional TDD modes, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one number of repetitions. At step 750, the second method may include monitoring the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration. At step 760, the second method may include, based on whether the PDCCH is received during at least one monitoring opportunity, determining, according to at least one number of repetitions, whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes.

[0084] In some example embodiments, Example 1: An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: - Receive the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The default time-division duplex (TDD) mode is determined based on the first SIB, and multiple additional TDD modes are determined based on the second SIB; - Operate according to the default TDD mode; - Determine at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the common downlink control information (DCI) of the monitoring group based on the second SIB; and - Whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes is determined based on whether the group public DCI is received during at least one monitoring period.

[0085] Example 2. The apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the second SIB.

[0086] Example 3. The apparatus according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the group common DCI is used to deliver control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message.

[0087] Example 4. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the group of common DCIs is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Based on the received group of common DCI, operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes.

[0088] Example 5. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Based on the second SIB, determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol for the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

[0089] Example 6. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - If it is determined that the group public DCI was not received during the monitoring period, the operation shall be carried out according to the default TDD mode.

[0090] Example 7. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; and - Based on the second SIB, the flexible symbol of the default TDD mode is used for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0091] Example 8. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; and - When configured during the monitoring period, the operation is performed according to the at least one repetition number.

[0092] Example 9. The apparatus according to Example 8, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

[0093] Example 10. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured such that the apparatus, when configured during the monitoring period, operates by means of: - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0094] Example 11. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured such that the apparatus at least: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

[0095] Example 12. An apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB are also based on the modes of the first SIB.

[0096] Example 13. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured such that the apparatus at least: - Receive unicast DCI; and - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0097] Example 14. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

[0098] Example 15. A method comprising: - The device receives the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The device determines the default time-division duplex (TDD) mode based on the first SIB and determines multiple additional TDD modes based on the second SIB; - The device operates according to the default TDD mode; - The device determines at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Common Downlink Control Information (DCI) based on the second SIB; and - The device determines whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the group common DCI is received during at least one monitoring period.

[0099] Example 16. The method according to Example 15, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the second SIB.

[0100] Example 17. The method according to Example 15 or Example 16, wherein the group common DCI is used to deliver control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message.

[0101] Example 18. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 17 further includes: - Determine that the group of common DCIs is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Based on the received group of common DCI, operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes.

[0102] Example 19. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 18 further includes: - Based on the second SIB, determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol for the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

[0103] Example 20. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 19 further includes: - If it is determined that the group public DCI was not received during the monitoring period, the operation shall be carried out according to the default TDD mode.

[0104] Example 21. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 20 further includes: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; and - Based on the second SIB, the flexible symbol of the default TDD mode is used for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0105] Example 22. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 21 further includes: - Determine the repetition configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB, wherein the repetition configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; and - When configured during the monitoring period, the operation is performed according to the at least one repetition number.

[0106] Example 23. The method according to Example 22 further includes: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

[0107] Example 24. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 23 further includes: when configured during the monitoring period, performing the following operations, - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0108] Example 25. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 24 further includes: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

[0109] Example 26. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 25, wherein the plurality of additional TDD modes based on the second SIB are also based on the modes of the first SIB.

[0110] Example 27. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 26 further includes: - Receive unicast DCI; and - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0111] Example 28. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 27 further includes: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

[0112] In some example embodiments, Example 1. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, said instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: - Determine the default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and multiple additional TDD modes; - Operate according to the default TDD mode; - Determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation; - Determine a repeating configuration for the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repeating configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; - Monitor the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and - Based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the at least one repetition number.

[0113] Example 2. The apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The default TDD mode is determined based on the first SIB, and the plurality of TDD modes are determined based on the second SIB.

[0114] Example 3. The apparatus according to Example 2, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the same as the second SIB.

[0115] Example 4. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - The monitoring configuration is determined based on at least one of the following: SIB1, another SIB, or dedicated radio resource control (RRC) signaling.

[0116] Example 5. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the at least one monitoring timing for monitoring downlink control information (DCI); and - Based on whether the DCI is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0117] Example 6. The apparatus according to Example 5, wherein the DCI is a group common DCI for delivering control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message or unicast DCI.

[0118] Example 7. The apparatus according to Example 5 or Example 6, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the DCI is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Based on the received DCI, operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0119] Example 8. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol for the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

[0120] Example 9. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; and - Apply the flexible notation of the default TDD mode to each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0121] Example 10. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

[0122] Example 11. The apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured such that the apparatus, when configured during the monitoring period, operates by means of: - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0123] Example 12. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

[0124] Example 13. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive unicast DCI; and - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0125] Example 14. An apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

[0126] Example 15. The apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to unicast DCI.

[0127] Example 16. The apparatus according to Example 15, wherein the monitoring configuration relates to at least one of the following scenarios: Downlink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Uplink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Downlink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space; or Uplink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space.

[0128] Example 17. A method comprising: - The device determines the default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and multiple additional TDD modes; - The device operates according to the default TDD mode; - The device determines a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the physical downlink control channel, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to TDD configuration adaptation; - The device determines a repeating configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repeating configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; - The device monitors the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and - The device determines whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring period and the at least one repetition number.

[0129] Example 18. The method according to Example 17 further includes: - Receive the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The default TDD mode is determined based on the first SIB, and the plurality of TDD modes are determined based on the second SIB.

[0130] Example 19. The method according to Example 17 or Example 18, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the same as the second SIB.

[0131] Example 20. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 19 further includes: - The monitoring configuration is determined based on at least one of the following: SIB1, another SIB, or dedicated radio resource control (RRC) signaling.

[0132] Example 21. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 20 further includes: - Determine the at least one monitoring timing for monitoring downlink control information (DCI); and - Based on whether the DCI is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0133] Example 22. The method according to Example 21, wherein the DCI is a group common DCI for delivering control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message or unicast DCI.

[0134] Example 23. The method according to Example 21 or Example 22 further includes: - Determine that the DCI is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Based on the received DCI, operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0135] Example 24. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 23 further includes: - Determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol for the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

[0136] Example 25. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 24 further includes: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; and - Apply the flexible notation of the default TDD mode to each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0137] Example 26. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 25 further includes: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

[0138] Example 27. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 26 further includes: when configured during the monitoring period, performing the following operations: - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0139] Example 28. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 27 further includes: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

[0140] Example 29. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 19 further includes: - Receive unicast DCI; and - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

[0141] Example 30. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 29 further includes: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

[0142] Example 31. The method according to any one of Examples 17 to 30, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to unicast DCI.

[0143] Example 32. The method according to Example 31, wherein the monitoring configuration relates to at least one of the following scenarios: Downlink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Uplink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Downlink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space; or Uplink authorization received from a predefined, user-specific search space.

[0144] It should be understood that the disclosed example embodiments are not limited to the specific structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to their equivalents, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0145] Throughout this specification, any reference to an exemplary embodiment or an exemplary embodiment implies that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the exemplary embodiment is included in at least one exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one exemplary embodiment" or "in an exemplary embodiment" appearing in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same exemplary embodiment. Precise numerical values ​​are also disclosed where terms such as, for example, approximately or substantially, are used to refer to numerical values.

[0146] As used herein, for convenience, multiple items, structural elements, constituent elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as if each component in the list were individually identified as a separate and unique component. Therefore, without indication to the contrary, any individual component of such a list should not be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other component in the same list solely based on their presentation in the common group. Furthermore, various exemplary embodiments and examples may be referenced herein along with alternatives to their various components. It should be understood that such exemplary embodiments, examples, and alternatives should not be construed as de facto equivalents of each other, but should be considered as separate and autonomous representations.

[0147] In the example embodiments, an apparatus such as, for example, UE 110 or wireless network node 120 may include components for performing the example embodiments described above and any combination thereof.

[0148] In exemplary embodiments, a computer program may be configured to cause a method according to the above exemplary embodiments and any combination thereof. In exemplary embodiments, a computer program product embodied on a non-transitory computer-readable medium may be configured to control a processor to perform processes including the above exemplary embodiments and any combination thereof.

[0149] In example embodiments, a device such as, for example, UE 110 or wireless network node 120 may include at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, together with the at least one processor, to enable the device to perform at least the example embodiments described above and any combination thereof.

[0150] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more exemplary embodiments. Numerous specific details, such as examples of length, width, shape, etc., have been provided in the foregoing description to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure can be practiced without one or more specific details or using other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations have not been shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring various aspects of this disclosure.

[0151] While the foregoing examples illustrate the principles of exemplary embodiments in one or more specific applications, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications can be made to the form, use, and details of the implementations without inventive effort and without departing from the principles and concepts of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited except by the claims set forth herein.

[0152] The verbs “comprising” and “including” are used herein as open-ended restrictions, neither excluding nor requiring the presence of any unlisted features. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the features recited in the dependent claims may be freely combined with each other. Furthermore, it should be understood that the use of “a” or “an” (i.e., the singular form) throughout this document does not exclude a plurality.

[0153] Industrial applicability At least some example implementations have found industrial applications in cellular communication networks (e.g., in 3GPP networks using TDD).

[0154] List of abbreviations

[0155] List of reference numerals

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by said at least one processor, causing the apparatus to at least: - Determine the default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and multiple additional TDD modes; - Operate according to the default TDD mode; - Determine a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), wherein the monitoring configuration is related to a TDD configuration adaptation; - Determine a repeating configuration for the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repeating configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; - Monitor the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and - Based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the at least one repetition number.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The default TDD mode is determined based on the first SIB, and the plurality of TDD modes are determined based on the second SIB.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the same as the second SIB.

4. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - The monitoring configuration is determined based on at least one of the following: SIB1, another SIB, or dedicated radio resource control (RRC) signaling.

5. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the at least one monitoring timing for monitoring downlink control information (DCI); and - Based on whether the DCI is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the DCI is a group common DCI for delivering control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message or unicast DCI.

7. The apparatus of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the DCI is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; and - Based on the received DCI, operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

8. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; as well as - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol of the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

9. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; and - Apply the flexible notation of the default TDD mode to each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

10. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

11. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured such that the apparatus, when configured during the monitoring period, operates by means of: - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

12. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

13. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Receive unicast DCI; and - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

14. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory are further configured to cause the apparatus to at least: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

15. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring configuration relates to unicast DCI.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the monitoring configuration relates to at least one of the following scenarios: Downlink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Uplink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Downlink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space; or Uplink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space.

17. A method comprising: - The device determines the default Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode and multiple additional TDD modes; - The device operates according to the default TDD mode; - The device determines a monitoring configuration having at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring the physical downlink control channel, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to TDD configuration adaptation; - The device determines a repeating configuration of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the repeating configuration includes at least one number of repetitions; - The device monitors the PDCCH according to the monitoring configuration; and - The device determines whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes based on whether the PDCCH is received during the at least one monitoring period and the at least one repetition number.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: - Receive the first system information block (SIB) and the second SIB; - The default TDD mode is determined based on the first SIB, and the plurality of TDD modes are determined based on the second SIB.

19. The method of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the first SIB is SIB1 and the second SIB is another SIB, the second SIB is SIB1 and the first SIB is another SIB, or the first SIB is the same as the second SIB.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, further comprising: - The monitoring configuration is determined based on at least one of the following: SIB1, another SIB, or dedicated radio resource control (RRC) signaling.

21. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising: - Determine the at least one monitoring opportunity for monitoring downlink control information (DCI); as well as - Based on whether the DCI is received during the at least one monitoring period, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the DCI is a group common DCI for delivering control information to more than one user equipment (UE) in a single DCI message or unicast DCI.

23. The method according to claim 21 or claim 22, further comprising: - Determine that the DCI is received during the monitoring period and indicate the one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; as well as - Based on the received DCI, operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

24. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 23, further comprising: - Determine the uplink and downlink symbols for at least one of the following: the default TDD mode, and one of the plurality of additional TDD modes; as well as - Determine periods of no transmission or reception based on one of the following to allow time to change link direction: Some, but not all, of the flexible symbols of the default TDD mode are identified as the time periods of the plurality of additional TDD modes; The flexible symbol of the default TDD mode is determined as the time period of the plurality of additional TDD modes; or The time period is determined based on the second SIB.

25. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 24, further comprising: - Determine that the uplink and downlink symbols of the default TDD mode and the plurality of additional TDD modes are the same; as well as - Apply the flexible notation of the default TDD mode to each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

26. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 25, further comprising: - Receive an instruction, which indicates the at least one number of repetitions.

27. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 26, further comprising: When configured during the monitoring period, the following operations are performed: - Repeat one of the plurality of additional TDD modes according to the repeat configuration of the default TDD mode; - Repeat several additional TDD patterns from the plurality of additional TDD patterns according to a repetition number; or - Repeat several of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the number of repetitions is configured for each of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

28. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 27, further comprising: - Determine the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes, wherein the length of the plurality of additional TDD modes is the same as the length of the default TDD mode.

29. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, further comprising: - Receive unicast DCI; as well as - Based on the received unicast DCI, determine whether to operate according to one of the plurality of additional TDD modes.

30. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 29, further comprising: - Determine whether to operate according to one of the multiple additional TDD modes within a predefined time period.

31. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 30, wherein the monitoring configuration is related to unicast DCI.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the monitoring configuration relates to at least one of the following scenarios: Downlink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Uplink authorization received via a predefined public search space; Downlink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space; or Uplink authorization received via a predefined, user-specific search space.

33. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 17 to 32.

34. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having a set of computer-readable instructions stored thereon, the set of computer-readable instructions, when executed by at least one processor, causing the apparatus to perform at least the method according to any one of claims 17 to 33.

Images