Rach transmission under non-uniform allocation of rach resources

Abstract

Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to RACH transmissions under non-uniform allocation of RACH resources. A method includes receiving, from a second apparatus, a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals, selecting a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a greater quantity of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a lesser quantity of random access resources, and performing a random access channel transmission to the second apparatus using a random access resource associated with the selected synchronization signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to the telecommunications field, and more specifically to methods, apparatuses, devices, and computer-readable storage media for random access channel (RACH) transmission under non-uniform RACH resource allocation. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of network technology, a new approach has been introduced to improve network energy efficiency, as identified in the recent Release (Rel)-19 work item. This strategy focuses on Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) adaptation and addresses the need for more energy-efficient network operation. Therefore, it is worthwhile to explore innovative signaling mechanisms, as such advancements have the potential to significantly promote network energy conservation and improve overall network efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a first apparatus is provided. The first apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to at least: receive from a second apparatus a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; select a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources; and perform a random access channel transmission to the second apparatus using the random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

[0004] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a second apparatus is provided. The second apparatus includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second apparatus to at least: transmit to a first apparatus a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; and perform random access channel reception from the first apparatus using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources.

[0005] In a third aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided. The method includes: receiving, at a first device, configuration of random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals from a second device; selecting a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources; and performing random access channel transmission to the second device using the random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

[0006] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a method is provided. The method includes: transmitting, at a second device, a configuration of random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals to a first device; and performing random access channel reception from the first device using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources.

[0007] In a fifth aspect of this disclosure, a first apparatus is provided. The first apparatus includes: means for receiving from a second apparatus a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; means for selecting a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signals associated with a larger number of random access resources have a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signals associated with a smaller number of random access resources; and means for performing a random access channel transmission to the second apparatus using the random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

[0008] In a sixth aspect of this disclosure, a second apparatus is provided. The second apparatus includes: means for transmitting to a first apparatus a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; and means for performing random access channel reception from the first apparatus using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources.

[0009] In a seventh aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable medium is provided. The computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon for causing a device to at least execute the method according to a third aspect.

[0010] In an eighth aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable medium is provided. The computer-readable medium includes instructions stored thereon for causing a device to at least execute the method according to the fourth aspect.

[0011] It should be understood that the summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Some exemplary embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An example communication environment in which example embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented is shown; Figure 2 Signaling diagrams of RACH transmissions according to some example embodiments of this disclosure are shown; Figure 3 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method implemented at a first device according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 4 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method implemented at a second device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5 A simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; and Figure 6 A block diagram of an example computer-readable medium according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0013] Throughout all the accompanying figures, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to some exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and implementing this disclosure, and do not imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below.

[0015] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0016] References to "an embodiment," "embodiment," "example embodiment," etc., in this disclosure indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but it is not necessary for every embodiment to include that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is to be noted that those skilled in the art will recognize, whether explicitly described or not, that such features, structures, or characteristics apply in conjunction with other embodiments.

[0017] It should be understood that although terms such as "first," "second," etc., preceding nouns in this document may be used to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another and they do not restrict the order of nouns. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any or all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0018] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar expressions, wherein the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”, means at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0019] As used herein, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the “responding to A” action does not indicate that the action is performed immediately after “A” occurs, and may include one or more intermediate steps.

[0020] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “possessing,” “containing,” and / or “covering,” as used herein, specify the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0021] As used in this application, the term "circuit" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuits only) 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 (including (multiple) 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) (Multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or portions of (multiple) microprocessors, which require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may not exist when the software is not required to operate.

[0022] This definition of "circuit" applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used herein, the term "circuit" also encompasses only hardware circuitry or a processor (or multiple processors) or portions thereof, and their accompanying software and / or firmware implementations. The term "circuit" also encompasses, 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.

[0023] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network that conforms to any suitable communication standard, such as New Radio (NR), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), etc. Furthermore, communication between terminal devices and network devices in a communication network can be performed according to any suitable generation of communication protocol, including but not limited to first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G), 5.5G, sixth-generation (6G) communication protocols, and / or any other currently known or to be developed in the future. Embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. Given the rapid development of communications, there will naturally be future types of communication technologies and systems that can implement this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure should not be considered limited to the systems described above.

[0024] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a node in a communication network through which terminal devices access the network and receive services. Depending on the terminology and technology applied, a network device can refer to a base station (BS) or access point (AP), such as a Node B (NodeB or NB), an evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), an NR NB (also known as a gNB), a Remote Radio Unit (RRU), a Radio Head (RH), a Remote Radio Head (RRH), a relay, an Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) node, a low-power node (such as a femto or pico), a non-terrestrial network (NTN) or non-terrestrial network equipment (such as satellite network equipment, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellites), an aircraft network equipment, etc. In some example embodiments, the Radio Access Network (RAN) split architecture includes a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) at the IAB host node. An IAB node includes a mobile terminal (IAB-MT) portion similar to the UE facing the parent node, and the DU portion of the IAB node is similar to the base station facing the next-hop IAB node.

[0025] The term "terminal device" refers to any end device with wireless communication capabilities. As an example and not a limitation, a terminal device can refer to communication equipment, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), portable subscriber station, mobile station (MS), or access terminal (AT). Terminal devices can include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, VoIP phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image acquisition terminal devices (such as digital cameras), gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEE), laptop mounted devices (LME), USB dongles, smart devices, wireless client devices (CPE), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, head-mounted displays (HMDs), vehicles, drones, medical devices and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial devices and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in the context of industrial and / or automated processing chains), consumer electronics devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. The terminal device may also correspond to the mobile terminal MT portion of an IAB node (e.g., a relay node). In the following description, the terms "terminal device," "communication device," "terminal," "user equipment," and "UE" are used interchangeably.

[0026] As used herein, the terms “resource,” “transmission resource,” “resource block,” “physical resource block” (PRB), “uplink resource,” or “downlink resource” can refer to any resource used to perform communication, such as communication between a terminal device and a network device, including resources in the time domain, frequency domain, spatial domain, code domain, or any other combination of time-domain, frequency-domain, spatial-domain, and / or code-domain resources that enable communication. In the following, unless explicitly stated otherwise, resources in the frequency and time domains will be used as examples of transmission resources used to describe some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Note that the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are equally applicable to other resources in other domains.

[0027] Figure 1 An example communication environment 100 in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented is shown. In communication environment 100, a plurality of communication devices, including a first device 110 and a second device 120, can communicate with each other. Figure 1 In the example, the first device 110 may include a terminal device (e.g., a UE), and the second device 120 may include a network device (e.g., a gNB). The service area of ​​the second device 120 may be referred to as cell 102.

[0028] It should be understood that Figure 1The number of the first device 110 and the second device 120 shown is given for illustrative purposes and does not imply any limitation. The communication environment 100 may include any suitable number of devices configured to implement the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Although not shown, it should be understood that one or more additional devices may be located in cell 102, and one or more additional cells may be deployed in the communication environment 100. Note that although shown as a network device, the second device 120 may be a device other than a network device. Although shown as a terminal device, the first device 110 may be a device other than a terminal device.

[0029] In the following description, for illustrative purposes, some exemplary embodiments are described in which the first device 110 operates as a terminal device and the second device 120 operates as a network device. However, in some exemplary embodiments, the operations described in connection with the terminal device can be implemented at the network device or other devices, and the operations described in connection with the network device can be implemented at the terminal device or other devices.

[0030] In some example embodiments, if the first device 110 is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device 120 is a network device or is included in a network device, then the link from the second device 120 to the first device 110 is referred to as a downlink (DL), and the link from the first device 110 to the second device 120 is referred to as an uplink (UL). In the DL, the second device 120 is a transmitting (TX) device (or transmitter), and the first device 110 is a receiving (RX) device (or receiver). In the UL, the first device 110 is a TX device (or transmitter), and the second device 120 is an RX device (or receiver).

[0031] In communication, synchronization signals and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) blocks (SSBs) can be allocated random access resources. The second device 120 can select an SSB from among multiple SSBs, for example, based on the signal quality of different SSBs. Then, PRACH transmission is performed using the random access resources associated with the selected SSB.

[0032] Communication in communication environment 100 can be implemented according to any suitable communication protocol, including but not limited to cellular communication protocols such as first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), fifth-generation (5G), 5.5G, and sixth-generation (6G), wireless local network communication protocols such as IEEE 802.11, and / or any other currently known or future-developed protocols. Furthermore, communication can utilize any suitable wireless communication technology, including but not limited to: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), Time Division Duplex (TDD), Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), Discrete Fourier Transform Extended OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM), and / or any other currently known or future-developed technologies.

[0033] As briefly mentioned above, Rel-19 work item focused on enhancing network energy efficiency has been approved. The work item includes PRACH adaptation and non-uniform PRACH resources per SSB as research objectives, as shown in Table 1 below.

[0034] Table 1

[0035] In NR, a specific mapping relationship is defined between SSBs and RACH timings (ROs), allowing the gNB to determine the UE's preferred Tx beamforming by detecting which RO and which PRACH sequence (preamble) the UE uses. This capability enables the network to respond accordingly to the UE. The mapping between SSBs and RACH timings is defined by two higher-level parameters: the parameter "msg1-FDM", which specifies how many ROs are allocated in the frequency domain while maintaining the same position in the time domain; and the parameter "ssb-perRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB", which specifies how many SSBs can be mapped to a RO and how many preamble indices can be mapped to a single SSB.

[0036] Furthermore, the 3GPP Technical Specification (TS) 38.213 defines the overall mapping logic between SSB and RO as follows: First, the order of preamble indices within a single PRACH opportunity (RO). Second, the order of frequency resource indices for PRACH opportunities used for frequency reuse. Third, the order of time resource indices for time-reused PRACH opportunities within a PRACH slot. Fourth, the order of PRACH slot indexes.

[0037] As mentioned above, it is proposed that cells can have a non-uniform allocation and mapping from SSBs to random access resources. In other words, some SSBs are associated with more random access resources compared to other SSBs.

[0038] In scenarios where SSB-to-RO resource allocation and mapping are non-uniform, it becomes more beneficial to have more UEs use the PRACH preamble associated with an SSB with a larger amount of RO / preamble compared to an SSB with a smaller amount of RO / preamble. Ideally, the UE would select the best SSB (in terms of signal quality), but when multiple SSBs have the same level at the UE, it would be better to guide the UE to select the SSB with the larger amount of resources. In some mechanisms, the UE will treat SSBs of the same level (SSBs above a configured threshold) equally in terms of signal quality.

[0039] According to some example embodiments of this disclosure, a signaling solution for non-uniform PRACH resource allocation for each SSB is provided. For example, the gNB can configure random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals (e.g., SSBs, primary synchronization signals, or secondary synchronization signals) for the UE. When selecting a synchronization signal, a synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources may have a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources. Alternatively, a synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources may have a higher priority in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources. The UE then uses the random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal to perform random access channel transmission to the gNB.

[0040] In other words, for example, if the SSBs under consideration are at the same or similar level in terms of signal quality, the UE can assign a greater weight to SSB(s) with a larger number of random access resources than to SSB(s) with a smaller number of random access resources. In one example, the UE can assign a greater weight or higher priority to SSB(s) with a larger number of origins (ROs) than to SSB(s) with a smaller number of ROs. In another example, the UE can assign a greater weight or higher priority to SSB(s) with a larger number of current preambles than to SSB(s) with a smaller number of current preambles. In this way, the probability of successful network access can be increased, and more efficient use of network resources can be ensured.

[0041] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] Figure 2 Signaling diagram 200 illustrates RACH transmission according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For example... Figure 2As shown, signaling diagram 200 relates to a first device 110 and a second device 120.

[0043] In operation, the second device 120 transmits to the first device 110 a configuration from the second device 120 for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals. Accordingly, the first device 110 receives (210) the configuration from the second device 120. For example, the second device 120 can configure random access resources for the first device 110, which are allocated to or mapped to multiple SSBs.

[0044] In some example embodiments, random access resources may include random access routes (ROs). Therefore, the amount of random access resources associated with a synchronization signal may include the number of ROs corresponding to the synchronization signal. Alternatively or additionally, in some example embodiments, random access resources may include random access preambles in the ROs. Therefore, the amount of random access resources associated with a synchronization signal may include the number of random access preambles corresponding to the synchronization signal.

[0045] The first device 110 selects (230) a synchronization signal from one or more synchronization signals among a plurality of synchronization signals. In this case, the weight of the selected synchronization signal may be based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal. Synchronization signals associated with a larger amount of random access resources have a larger weight, while synchronization signals associated with a smaller amount of random access resources have a smaller weight. The first device 110 may select the synchronization signal based on the weight of the synchronization signal.

[0046] In some example embodiments, one or more synchronization signals may be part of a plurality of synchronization signals. Specifically, the signal quality of one or more synchronization signals may each exceed a quality threshold. For example, an SSB with a Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) measurement higher than the RSRP threshold may be considered for selection.

[0047] In some example embodiments, one or more synchronization signals may have the same or similar levels of signal quality. For example, the SSBs under consideration may have the same / similar levels of signal quality. SSBs with similar levels of signal quality may be SSBs whose RSRP measurements are above the RSRP threshold or within the range of values.

[0048] The first device 110 performs (240) random access channel transmission to the second device 120 using random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal. For example, the first device 110 may transmit a preamble corresponding to the selected SSB within the RO corresponding to the selected SSB. Accordingly, the second device 120 performs random access channel reception from the first device 110.

[0049] Some example embodiments regarding the selection of metrics and / or conditions will now be described in detail.

[0050] In some example embodiments, the first device 110 determines a first weight for each of one or more synchronization signals. The first weight is based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal. The first device 110 then selects a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals based on the first weight determined for each of the one or more synchronization signals. In such embodiments, the value of the first weight of an SSB with a larger amount of random access resources may be greater than the value of the first weight of another SSB with a smaller amount of random access resources. For example, the value of the first weight of an SSB may be proportional to the number of ROs or the number of preambles associated with the SSB. Hereinafter, weights may be represented by weighting factors or referred to as weighting factors, and the first weight may also be referred to as a resource weight.

[0051] In the example, but not limited to, the weighting factor of the SSB can be proportional to the number of ROs or preambles associated with the SSB. For example, SSB#0 has a total of 128 preambles in an associated period (each SSB has an RO or preamble during this period), SSB#1 has a total of 16 preambles in an associated period, SSB#2 has a total of 32 preambles in an associated period, and SSB#3 has a total of 64 preambles in an associated period. The first device 110 detects that the RSRP measurements of SSB#1 and SSB#3 are higher than a configured threshold. Then, the first device 110 can weight the preamble of SSB#1 with a weight of (16 / (16+64)) and the preamble of SSB#3 with a weight of (64 / (16+64)), and perform the final preamble selection using the weights. In this scenario, the first device 110 can randomly select a preamble from 16 (associated with SSB#1) + 64 (associated with SSB#3) = 80 preambles. In other words, the first device 110 can select an SSB from SSB#1 and SSB#3, which have weights of (16 / (16+64)) and (64 / (16+64)) respectively, and then randomly select a preamble from the preambles associated with the selected SSB.

[0052] In some example embodiments, for each of one or more synchronization signals, the first device 110 may determine a range of values ​​indicating the weight of the synchronization signal. The range of values ​​for the synchronization signal is based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal. The first device 110 may then generate a random value within the range of values ​​for each of the one or more synchronization signals. The first device 110 may select a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals by comparing the corresponding random values ​​generated for the one or more synchronization signals. For example, the range of values ​​for an SSB associated with a larger amount of random access resources may be greater than the range of values ​​for another SSB with a smaller amount of random access resources. Therefore, the SSB corresponding to the largest random value can be selected, and then the preamble associated with that SSB can be selected.

[0053] Continuing with the examples above for SSB#1, SSB#2, SSB#3, and SSB#4, the value range [0, 16] is determined for SSB#1, and the value range [0, 64] is determined for SSB#3. Therefore, the first device 110 can generate a random number N1 in the range [0, 16] for SSB#1, and another random number N3 in the range [0, 64] for SSB#3. Then, the first device 110 selects either a preamble or a random number (RO) based on max{N1, N3}.

[0054] In some example implementations, in addition to the amount of random access resources, other factors may be considered to determine the weights used for selection.

[0055] In some example embodiments, the signal quality of the synchronization signal may be considered when determining the weights. If the first weight as described above is used, the first device 110 may determine a second weight based on the signal quality of the synchronization signal and a quality threshold for each of the one or more synchronization signals. For example, the second weight may be determined based on the difference between the RSRP measurement of the synchronization signal and the RSRP threshold. Hereinafter, the second weight may also be referred to as a quality weight or an RSRP weight. A synchronization signal may then be selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding second weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals. In one example, the first weight may be multiplied by the second weight to determine the final weight of the synchronization signal. In other examples, other types of calculations may be used to determine the final weight of the synchronization signal.

[0056] If a value range is used, the value range for each synchronization signal can also be determined based on the signal quality and quality threshold of the synchronization signal. For example, the value range determined based on the amount of random access resources can be scaled by the difference between the signal quality and the quality threshold.

[0057] In one example, but not limited to, the first device 110 may combine a resource weighting factor with an additional RSRP weighting factor to select either the RO or the preamble as the selection metric. The first device 110 may select the RO / preamble that produces the maximum value among different candidates. The additional RSRP weighting factor is associated with a Layer 1 RSRP (L1-RSRP) value that is greater than or equal to a configuration threshold used to select the RO / preamble. Continuing the example above, SSB#1 and SSB#3 are associated with L1-RSRP values ​​of -53 dBm and -56 dBm, respectively, and the network configuration threshold is -57 dBm. Based on this, the first device 110 determines the following RSRP weighting factor by using SSB1, which has the largest L1-RSRP, as a normalized value, through which L1-RSRP values ​​greater than or equal to the threshold are normalized. Therefore, the weight values ​​can produce a linear scale: W-RSRP(SSB1) = 1, W-RSRP(SSB3) = 1 / 2, where W-RSRP represents the RSRP weight. Then, the first device 110 determines the selection of the RO / preamble by selecting the candidate with the largest candidate value, using both the RSRP weighting factor and the resource weighting factor. In this case, for SSB#1 or the RO / preamble associated with SSB#1, the weight is equal to W-RSRP(SSB1). W-RO(SSB1), for example, is 1 16 / (16+64)=0.2, where W-RO represents the resource weight. Meanwhile, for SSB#3 or the RO / preamble associated with SSB#3, the weight is equal to W-RSRP(SSB1). W-RO(SSB3), for example, 1 / 2 64 / (16+64)=0.4. Therefore, in this example, SSB#3 is selected, or thus the RO / preamble associated with SSB#3 is selected.

[0058] In some example embodiments, the time delay between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the PRACH transmission may be considered when determining the weights. If the first weight and optional second weight described above are used, for each synchronization signal, the first device 110 determines a third weight based on the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission (e.g., the time offset between the SSB reception timing and the preamble transmission timing). A synchronization signal is also selected from one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding third weight determined for each synchronization signal. For example, the first weight may be divided by the third weight to determine the final weight of the synchronization signal. Similarly, other types of calculations may be used to determine the final weight of the synchronization signal.

[0059] If a value range is used, the value range for each synchronization signal can also be determined based on the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission (e.g., the time offset between the timing of SSB reception and the timing of preamble transmission). For example, the value range determined based on the amount of random access resources can be scaled using the time offset.

[0060] In one example, the first device 110 may combine a resource weighting factor and / or an RSRP weighting factor, and apply an additional delay weighting factor as a selection metric for RO / preamble selection. If delay is used as one of the weighting factors in the selection metric, the first device 110 selects the RO / preamble with the smallest value among the possible candidates. The additional delay weighting factor is associated with the time offset, in symbols / slots, between the SSB reception timing and the preamble transmission timing. The actual delay weight for each candidate can be determined by normalizing each time offset of the RO with the smallest time offset among the possible candidates (i.e., the smallest offset yields a delay weight of 1).

[0061] In some example embodiments, one or more of the weights described above may be configured by a second device. The second device may transmit weight information indicating the corresponding weights for one or more synchronization signals to the first device 110. Accordingly, the first device may receive (220) the weight information from the second device 120. Synchronization signals are also selected from one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding weights.

[0062] In one example, the second device 120 can configure a weighting factor for each SSB that has a signal strength above a threshold (e.g., in terms of RSRP). Based on the weighting factor for each SSB, an SSB can be selected from those SSBs with signal strengths above the threshold, and preamble selection can be performed in the preamble associated with the selected SSB.

[0063] In some example embodiments, the first device 110 may select a synchronization signal, such as an SSB, associated with a maximum number of ROs.

[0064] In some example embodiments, the first device 110 may select a synchronization signal, such as an SSB, associated with a maximum number of ROs, wherein the synchronization signal has a quality higher than a network configuration threshold.

[0065] In some example embodiments, if multiple synchronization signals (e.g., SSBs) have signal quality higher than the RSRP threshold, the first device 110 can select the synchronization signal associated with the maximum number of ROs.

[0066] In some example embodiments, if no synchronization signal (e.g., SSB) has a signal quality higher than the RSRP threshold, the first device 110 can select any synchronization signal associated with the maximum number of ROs.

[0067] In some example embodiments, if no synchronization signal (e.g., SSB) has signal quality above the RSRP threshold, the first device 110 can select any synchronization signal without applying the RO weight associated with the synchronization signal in the selection.

[0068] Figure 3 A flowchart of an example method 300 implemented at a first device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For the purposes of discussion, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 Method 300 is described by the angle of the first device 110 in the middle.

[0069] At block 310, the first device 110 receives from the second device a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals.

[0070] At block 320, the first device 110 selects a synchronization signal from one or more synchronization signals among a plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger amount of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller amount of random access resources.

[0071] At block 330, the first device 110 uses random access resources associated with a selected synchronization signal to perform random access channel transmission to the second device.

[0072] In some example embodiments, method 300 further includes: determining a first weight for each of one or more synchronization signals based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal; and selecting a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding first weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0073] In some example embodiments, the first device is further configured to: determine a second weight for each of the one or more synchronization signals based on the signal quality and a quality threshold of the synchronization signal, wherein the synchronization signal is further selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding second weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0074] In some example embodiments, the first device is further configured to: determine a third weight for each of the one or more synchronization signals based on the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission, wherein the synchronization signal is also selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding third weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0075] In some example embodiments, method 300 further includes: for each of one or more synchronization signals, determining a range of values ​​indicating the weight of the synchronization signal based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal; generating a random value within the range of values; and selecting a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals by comparing the corresponding random values ​​generated for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0076] In some example embodiments, the value range for each synchronization signal is also determined based on at least one of the following: the signal quality and quality threshold of the synchronization signal, or the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission.

[0077] In some example embodiments, the signal quality of one or more synchronization signals exceeds a quality threshold.

[0078] In some example embodiments, method 300 further includes receiving information from a second means indicating corresponding weights for one or more synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signals are also selected from one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding weights.

[0079] In some example embodiments, the amount of random access resources associated with a synchronization signal includes at least one of the following: the number of random access channel opportunities corresponding to the synchronization signal, or the number of random access preambles corresponding to the synchronization signal.

[0080] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

[0081] Figure 4 A flowchart of an example method 400 implemented at a second device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For the purposes of discussion, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1 Method 400 is described by the angle of the second device 120 in the middle.

[0082] At box 410, the second device 120 transmits to the first device the configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals.

[0083] At block 420, the second device 120 performs random access channel reception from the first device using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more synchronization signals among a plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger amount of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller amount of random access resources.

[0084] In some example embodiments, method 400 further includes transmitting information to the first device indicating corresponding weights for one or more synchronization signals.

[0085] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

[0086] In some example embodiments, a first device capable of performing any method 300 (e.g., Figure 1 The first device 110 may include a component for performing the corresponding operation of method 300. This component may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the component may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module. The first device may be implemented as or included in... Figure 1 In the first device 110.

[0087] In some example embodiments, the first device includes: means for receiving from the second device a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; means for selecting a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources; and means for performing a random access channel transmission to the second device using the random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

[0088] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further includes: means for determining a first weight for each of one or more synchronization signals based on a random access resource quantity associated with the synchronization signal; and means for selecting a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding first weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0089] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further includes: a component for determining a second weight for each of the one or more synchronization signals based on the signal quality and a quality threshold of the synchronization signal, wherein the synchronization signal is also selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding second weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0090] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further includes: a component for determining a third weight for each of the one or more synchronization signals based on a time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission, wherein the synchronization signal is also selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding third weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0091] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further includes: for each of the one or more synchronization signals, means for determining a range of values ​​indicating the weight of the synchronization signal based on a random access resource quantity associated with the synchronization signal; means for generating random values ​​within the range of values; and means for selecting a synchronization signal from the one or more synchronization signals by comparing the corresponding random values ​​generated for the one or more synchronization signals.

[0092] In some example embodiments, the value range for each synchronization signal is also determined based on at least one of the following: the signal quality and quality threshold of the synchronization signal, or the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission.

[0093] In some example embodiments, the signal quality of one or more synchronization signals exceeds a quality threshold.

[0094] In some example embodiments, the first device further includes a component for receiving information from the second device indicating corresponding weights for one or more synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signals are also selected from one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding weights.

[0095] In some example embodiments, the amount of random access resources associated with a synchronization signal includes at least one of the following: the number of random access channel opportunities corresponding to the synchronization signal, or the number of random access preambles corresponding to the synchronization signal.

[0096] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

[0097] In some example embodiments, a second device capable of performing any method 400 (e.g., Figure 1 The first device 110 may include a component for performing the corresponding operation of method 400. This component may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the component may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module. The second device may be implemented as or included in... Figure 1 The second device 120 in the middle.

[0098] In some example embodiments, the second apparatus includes: means for transmitting to the first apparatus a configuration for random access resources associated with a plurality of synchronization signals; and means for performing random access channel reception from the first apparatus using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein the synchronization signal associated with a larger number of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than the synchronization signal associated with a smaller number of random access resources.

[0099] In some example embodiments, the second device further includes a component for transmitting information to the first device indicating corresponding weights for one or more synchronization signals.

[0100] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

[0101] Figure 5 This is a simplified block diagram of a device 500 suitable for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 500 can be provided to implement a communication device, for example, Figure 1 The first device 110 or the second device 120 shown. As shown, the device 500 includes one or more processors 510, one or more memories 520 coupled to the processors 510, and one or more communication modules 540 coupled to the processors 510.

[0102] Communication module 540 is used for bidirectional communication. Communication module 540 has one or more communication interfaces to facilitate communication with one or more other modules or devices. The communication interface can represent any interface necessary for communication with other network elements. In some example embodiments, communication module 540 may include at least one antenna.

[0103] Processor 510 can be any type suitable for a local technology network and may include one or more of the following as non-limiting examples: general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 500 may have multiple processors, such as application integrated circuit chips, which are time-dependent on a clock synchronized with the main processor.

[0104] Memory 520 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, read-only memory ROM 524, electrically programmable read-only memory EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, optical disc CD, digital video disc DVD, optical disc, laser disc, and other magnetic and / or optical memories. Examples of volatile memories include, but are not limited to, random access memory RAM 522 and other volatile memories that will not be retained during power loss.

[0105] Computer program 530 includes computer-executable instructions that are executed by an associated processor 510. The instructions of program 530 may include instructions for performing operations / actions of some example embodiments of this disclosure. Program 530 may be stored in memory, such as ROM 524. Processor 510 can perform any suitable actions and processes by loading program 530 into RAM 522.

[0106] The exemplary embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented by the method of procedure 530, such that device 500 can perform as described in the reference. Figures 2 to 4 Any process discussed in this disclosure. Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or a combination of software and hardware.

[0107] In some example embodiments, program 530 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium, which may be included in device 500 (such as in memory 520) or other storage devices accessible by device 500. Device 500 may load program 530 from the computer-readable medium into RAM 522 for execution. In some example embodiments, the computer-readable medium may include any type of non-transitory storage medium, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc. As used herein, the term "non-transitory" is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), and not a limitation of data storage persistence (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0108] Figure 6 An example of a computer-readable medium 600 is shown, which may be in the form of a CD, DVD, or other optical storage disc. A program 530 is stored on the computer-readable medium 600.

[0109] In general, the various embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects can be implemented in hardware, and others can be implemented in firmware or software executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it should be understood that the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof, as examples of non-limiting examples.

[0110] Some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure also provide at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a computer-readable medium (such as a non-transitory computer-readable medium). The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions, such as those included in a program module, which are executed in a device targeting a physical or virtual processor to implement any of the methods described above. Typically, a program module includes routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc., that perform a particular task or implement a particular abstract data type. The functionality of the program module can be combined or split as needed among program modules in various embodiments. The machine-executable instructions for the program module can be executed within a local or distributed device. In a distributed device, the program module can reside on both local and remote storage media.

[0111] The program code used to implement the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. The program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that, when executed by the processor or controller, the program code enables the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0112] In the context of this disclosure, computer program code or related data may be carried on any suitable carrier to enable a device, apparatus, or processor to perform the various processes and operations described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer-readable media, etc.

[0113] Computer-readable media can be computer-readable signal media or computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable media can include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatuses, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media will include electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0114] Furthermore, although operations are described in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or to perform all shown operations to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, although several specific implementation details are included in the discussion above, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, certain features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, unless explicitly stated otherwise, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0115] Although this disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the disclosure as defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as exemplary forms for implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A first device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first device to at least: Receive configuration from the second device for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals; A synchronization signal is selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a larger amount of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller amount of random access resources; and Random access channel transmission to the second device is performed using random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is configured to: For each of the one or more synchronization signals, a first weight is determined based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal; and The synchronization signal is selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding first weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

3. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the first device is further configured to: For each of the one or more synchronization signals, a second weight is determined based on the signal quality and quality threshold of the synchronization signal. The synchronization signal is further selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding second weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

4. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the first device is further configured to: For each of the one or more synchronization signals, a third weight is determined based on the time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission. The synchronization signal is further selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on a corresponding third weight determined for the one or more synchronization signals.

5. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is configured to: For each of the one or more synchronization signals, The range of values ​​indicating the weight of the synchronization signal is determined based on the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal; Generate random values ​​within the specified value range; as well as The synchronization signal is selected from the one or more synchronization signals by comparing the corresponding random values ​​generated for the one or more synchronization signals.

6. The first apparatus of claim 5, wherein the value range for each synchronization signal is further determined based on at least one of the following: The signal quality and quality threshold of the synchronization signal, or The time offset between the timing of the synchronization signal and the timing of the random access channel transmission.

7. The first apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the signal quality of the corresponding signal of the one or more synchronization signals exceeds a quality threshold.

8. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is further configured to: Receive information from the second device indicating the corresponding weights for the one or more synchronization signals, and The synchronization signal is further selected from the one or more synchronization signals based on the corresponding weight.

9. The first apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the amount of random access resources associated with the synchronization signal comprises at least one of the following: The number of random access channel opportunities corresponding to the synchronization signal, or The number of random access preambles corresponding to the synchronization signal.

10. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

11. A second device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second device to at least: Transmit the configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals to the first device; as well as Random access channel reception from the first device is performed using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals. Synchronization signals associated with a larger amount of random access resources have a greater weight in the selection than synchronization signals associated with a smaller amount of random access resources.

12. The second device according to claim 11, wherein the second device is further configured to: Information indicating the corresponding weights for the one or more synchronization signals is transmitted to the first device.

13. The second device according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the first device is a terminal device or is included in a terminal device, and the second device is a network device or is included in a network device.

14. A method comprising: At the first device, configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals is received from the second device. A synchronization signal is selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a larger amount of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller amount of random access resources. Random access channel transmission to the second device is performed using random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

15. A method comprising: The configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals is transmitted from the second device to the first device; as well as Random access channel reception from the first device is performed using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals. Synchronization signals associated with a larger amount of random access resources have a greater weight in the selection than synchronization signals associated with a smaller amount of random access resources.

16. A first device, comprising: Components for receiving from a second device a configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals; A component for selecting a synchronization signal from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals, wherein a synchronization signal associated with a larger amount of random access resources has a greater weight in the selection than a synchronization signal associated with a smaller amount of random access resources; as well as A component for performing random access channel transmission to the second device using random access resources associated with the selected synchronization signal.

17. A second device, comprising: Components for transmitting to the first device a configuration for random access resources associated with multiple synchronization signals; as well as A component for performing random access channel reception from the first device using random access resources associated with a synchronization signal selected from one or more of the plurality of synchronization signals. Synchronization signals associated with a larger amount of random access resources have a greater weight in the selection than synchronization signals associated with a smaller amount of random access resources.

18. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions stored thereon, the instructions being configured to cause a device to perform at least the method of claim 14 or the method of claim 15.

Images