Spatial configuration adaptation

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a device, method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for dynamic antenna port association configuration, including receiving, at a terminal device and from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports, and receiving, at the terminal device and from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of telecommunications, and more particularly to devices, methods, apparatus, and computer-readable storage media for spatial configuration adaptation. [Background technology]

[0002] Radio Access Networks (RANs) are prone to high power consumption. Therefore, transmitting and / or receiving network energy saving techniques are required in the time, frequency, space, and power domains. For example, gNB spatial elements such as antenna elements, logical antenna ports, etc. are expected to adapt to network conditions, system capacity, traffic demands, etc. This can be implemented through dynamic spatial domain configuration adaptation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a dynamic spatial configuration adaptation solution is provided.

[0004] In a first aspect, a first device is provided, the first device comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first device to at least receive, from a second device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and receive, from the second device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0005] In a second aspect, a second device is provided, the second device comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second device to at least: transmit to the first device a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and transmit to the first device a second indication disabling at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0006] In a third aspect, a method is provided that includes receiving, at a terminal device and from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports, and receiving, at the terminal device and from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided that includes transmitting, at a network device and to a terminal device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports, and transmitting, at the network device and to the terminal device, a second indication disabling at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided that includes means for receiving, from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports, and means for receiving, from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, an apparatus is provided that includes: means for transmitting, to a terminal device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and means for transmitting, to the terminal device, a second indication disabling at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, provided is a computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least receive, from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and receive, from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least one of: transmit, to a terminal device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and transmit, to the terminal device, a second indication disabling at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0012] Other features and advantages of the presently disclosed embodiments will become apparent from the following description of specific embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the disclosed embodiments.

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure are presented by way of example, and their advantages will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Embodiments of the present disclosure are presented by way of example only, and their advantages will be explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network system in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented.

[0016] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates a signaling chart for communication according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary group common configuration according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] [Figure 4] 1 is a flowchart of an example method according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart of another example method according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] [Figure 7] 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computer-readable medium according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numbers represent the same or similar elements.

[0023] The principles of the present disclosure will be described with reference to several exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are set forth solely for the purpose of illustration and to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and practicing the present disclosure, without implying any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein can be embodied in various forms other than those described below.

[0024] In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, 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 belongs.

[0025] References in this disclosure to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not all embodiments need include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an exemplary embodiment, it is believed to be within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in other embodiments, whether or not explicitly stated.

[0026] It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish the functionality of the various elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprise," "comprises," "having," "including," and / or "comprising," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components, etc., but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0028] As used herein, "at least one of: " and "at least one of " and similar expressions, when a list of two or more elements is joined by "and" or "or", mean at least one of the elements, or at least two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0029] As used herein, the term "circuit" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (e.g., analog and / or digital-only implementations); and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software (if applicable) that: (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware; and (ii) Any part of software (including digital signal processors), hardware processors with software and memory, that work together to cause a device, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions. and (c) A hardware circuit and / or processor, e.g., a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor, that requires software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but where software is not necessary for operation, may be absent.

[0030] This definition of circuit applies to all uses of the term in this application, including any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuit also covers simply a hardware circuit or processor (or processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware implementation. The term circuit also covers, for example, and where applicable to certain claim elements, a baseband or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0031] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network conforming to any appropriate communication standard, such as a fifth-generation (5G) system, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), and the like. Furthermore, communications between terminal devices and network devices in a communication network may be performed according to any appropriate generation of communication protocols, 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) New Radio (NR) communication protocols, and / or other protocols now known or developed in the future. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied in various communication systems. Given the rapid development of communications, it is understood that there will be future communication technologies and systems to which the present disclosure may be applied in embodiments. The scope of the present disclosure should not be considered as being limited to only the aforementioned systems.

[0032] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a node of a communication network through which a terminal device accesses the network and receives services therefrom. Depending on the terminology and technology applied, a network device may refer to, for example, a base station (BS) or access point (AP), a Node B (NodeB or NB), an evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), a next generation Node B (NR NB), a remote radio unit (RRU), a radio header (RH), a remote radio head (RRH), an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, a low-power node such as a relay, femto, pico, etc. A network device may be defined as part of a gNB, such as a CU / DU split, in which case the network device is defined as either a gNB-CU or a gNB-DU.

[0033] The term "terminal device" refers to any end device capable of wireless communication. By way of example and not limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), portable subscriber station, mobile station (MS), or access terminal (AT). Terminal devices include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, voice-over-IP (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices such as digital cameras, gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, vehicle-mounted wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded equipment (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, smart devices, wireless customer premises equipment (CPE), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearables, head-mounted displays (HMD), 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. Terminal devices can also correspond to the mobile termination (MT) portion of an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node (also known as a relay node). In the following description, the terms "terminal device", "communication device", "terminal", "user equipment" and "UE" can be used interchangeably.

[0034] While the functionality described herein may be performed in fixed and / or wireless network nodes in various exemplary embodiments, in other exemplary embodiments, the functionality may be implemented in a user equipment device (such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer, mobile IoT device, or fixed IoT device). The user equipment device may, for example, include corresponding functionality as described in connection with fixed network nodes and / or wireless network nodes, as appropriate. The user equipment device may be user equipment and / or a control device, such as a chipset or processor, configured to control the user equipment when located therein. Examples of such functionality include a bootstrap server function and / or a home subscriber server, which may be implemented in the user equipment device by providing the user equipment device with software configured to cause the user equipment device to execute in terms of these functions / nodes.

[0035] (Example environment) 1 illustrates an exemplary communication environment 100 in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the communication environment 100 may include a plurality of first devices 110-1 to 110-N and a second device 120. The plurality of first devices 110-1 to 110-N may be terminal devices (e.g., UEs), which may hereinafter be collectively referred to as first devices 110. The second device 120 may be a network device (e.g., gNB) that provides service to terminal devices located in a cell 102.

[0036] The first device 110 and the second device 120 can communicate with each other. For example, the second device 120 can configure channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) resources for the first devices 110-1 to 110-N. Thus, the first devices 110-1 to 110-N can receive and measure their respective CSI-RSs on those configured resources.

[0037] CSI-RS can be UE-specifically configured via a radio resource control (RRC) message. Additionally or alternatively, CSI-RS can be shared among multiple UEs, i.e., one or more UEs can be configured to receive the same resource elements (REs). In the example of FIG. 1, if all first devices 110-1 to 110-N in cell 102 share the same CSI-RS resources, the configuration can be referred to as cell-specific CSI-RS. If only a portion of first devices 110-1 to 110-N in cell 102 share the same CSI-RS resources, e.g., a group of first devices 110-1 to 110-3, the configuration can be referred to as group-specific CSI-RS. If each of first devices 110-1 to 110-N has its own CSI-RS resources, the configuration can be referred to as UE-specific CSI-RS. However, the location of the CSI-RS resources is only known to the second device 120, and the first device 110 does not know whether the CSI-RS resources are shared with other devices.

[0038] In some cases, the first device 110 may be configured with up to 48 reporting configurations per component carrier (CC) or 4 reporting configurations per bandwidth part (BWP). One CSI resource configuration within one reporting configuration may be configured with up to 16 resource sets (e.g., aperiodic CSI), or otherwise, one resource set. Each CSI resource set may have up to 64 NZP CSI-RS resources, and one NZP-CSI-RS resource may have up to 32 antenna ports.

[0039] For CSI acquisition, the first device 110 can also be configured with a codebook type. Given a measured channel across CSI-RS resources, the first device 110 selects a codeword from a specified codebook, i.e., a precoding matrix indicator (PMI), along with a channel quality indicator (CQI) and a rank indicator (RI). The first device can also be configured to measure multiple CSI-RS resources (e.g., up to eight) in a resource set and report a favorite resource, a CSI-RS resource indicator (CRI), along with the PMI, CQI, and RI corresponding to the selected resource.

[0040] 1, the second device 120 may include an antenna array made up of one or more panels 122 and 124, each including multiple antenna elements 130. These antenna elements 130 may be further arranged to be antenna ports (not shown) for at least one CSI-RS resource or CSI-RS resource set.

[0041] It should be understood that a multi-panel gNB or multi-panel network device is just one implementation of second device 120. Additionally or alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, second device 120 may be implemented by using multi-transmit / receive (multi-TRP) technology.

[0042] The antenna ports of second device 120 may be divided into multiple subsets of antenna ports, each of the multiple subsets of antenna ports including at least one antenna port. The multiple subsets of antenna ports may include a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of CSI-RS resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of CSI-RS resources. At least one subset of antenna ports may be configured for each of first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0043] In some exemplary embodiments, the second device 120 may disable or enable at least one of the antenna port subset, e.g., for power saving purposes. The disable or enable indication may be transmitted to the first device 110 via downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), a system broadcast message, etc. Such indication may be transmitted individually to the different devices 110-1 through 110-N or may be transmitted in group-common signaling, which is described in more detail below. It should be understood that in some exemplary embodiments, the terms “enable” and “re-enable” may have similar meanings and may therefore be used interchangeably. For example, for an antenna port subset that was previously disabled from an operational state, if the second device 120 subsequently enables an antenna port, then the term “enable” may mean that such antenna port is re-enabled, i.e., re-enabled.

[0044] In addition to the antenna port configurations and indications described above, in some other embodiments, additional information or parameters such as codebook configuration, codebook subset restriction (CBSR), rank restriction, multi-panel restriction (e.g., ng-N1-N2 parameter), CSI-RS resource mapping, CSI resource periodicity and offset, etc. may also be dynamically adapted and configured by the second device 120, either via separate signaling for different devices or via group-common signaling.

[0045] It should also be understood that the number of network devices and end devices and the arrangement of antenna panels and antenna elements shown in Figure 1 are provided for illustrative purposes without implying any limitation, and that communication network 100 may include any suitable number of network devices and end devices and may use different arrangements of antenna panels and antenna elements.

[0046] It should be understood that the number of devices and their connections and antenna array arrangements shown in Figure 1 are for illustrative purposes only, without implying any limitations. Communication environment 100 may include any suitable number of devices or different arrangements of antenna arrays configured to implement exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Although not shown, it will be understood that one or more additional devices may be located in cell 102 and one or more additional cells may be deployed in communication environment 100.

[0047] Also, although illustrated as a network device, it should be noted that second device 120 may be a device other than a network device. Although illustrated as a terminal device, first device 110 may be a device other than a terminal device. For purposes of explanation, some exemplary embodiments will be described below as first device 110 operating as a terminal device and second device 120 operating as a network device. However, in some exemplary embodiments, operations described in connection with a terminal device may be implemented in a network device or other device, and operations described in connection with a network device may be implemented in a terminal device or other device.

[0048] In some demonstrative embodiments, when the first device 110 is a terminal device and the second device 120 is a network device, the link from the second device 120 to the first device 110 is called a downlink (DL), and the link from the first device 110 to the second device 120 is called 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 a RX device (or receiver).

[0049] Communications in communication environment 100 may be implemented according to any suitable communications protocol, including, but not limited to, cellular communications protocols such as first generation (1G), second generation (2G), third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), fifth generation (5G), sixth generation (6G), wireless local network communications protocols such as Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11, and / or other protocols now known or developed in the future. Furthermore, communications may utilize any suitable wireless communications 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 multiple access (OFDM), discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM), and / or other technologies now known or developed in the future.

[0050] Spatial domain adaptation can affect UE operations, including but not limited to reference signal (RS) measurements, channel state information (CSI) feedback, repeated uplink transmissions (e.g., PUSCH, PDSCH, etc.), sounding reference signal (SRS) transmission, transmission configuration indicator (TCI) configuration, beam management, beam failure recovery, radio link monitoring, cell selection, cell reselection handover, initial access, etc. Therefore, there is a need for improved spatial domain adaptation and configuration.

[0051] Principle of Operation and Exemplary Communication Signaling According to some example embodiments of the present disclosure, a solution for dynamic antenna port association configuration is provided. In this solution, a UE receives a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports from a gNB. The UE further receives a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports. Such indicators can be sent to different UEs in separate messages or in a group-common message. Antenna ports can be dynamically enabled or disabled depending on network conditions, traffic demands, etc. In this manner, network energy savings can be achieved. Furthermore, because both group-common and UE-specific configurations are supported, DL signaling overhead can be reduced.

[0052] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which illustrates a signaling chart 200 for communication in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, signaling chart 200 includes first devices 110-1 through 110-N and second devices 120, where first devices 110-1 through 110-3 comprise a group of devices 110. For purposes of discussion, signaling chart 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. While FIG. 2 illustrates first devices 110-1 through 110-3 and 110-N and one second device 120, it will be understood that there may be multiple first devices and larger or smaller groups of devices that perform similar operations as described below with respect to the illustrated first device 110, and multiple second devices that perform similar operations as described below with respect to second device 120.

[0054] As previously described, the second device 120 may divide the antenna ports into multiple antenna port subsets, including a primary subset and at least one secondary subset. In process 200, the second device 120 transmits a first indication 205 of the multiple subsets of antenna ports to the first device 110-1. Similarly, the second device 120 transmits the first indication to other devices, including the first devices 110-2 through 110-N. In some exemplary embodiments, the subsets of antenna ports may be code division multiplexed (CDM) port groups or may include antenna ports from the same CDM port group. In some other embodiments, the antenna port subsets may include antenna ports across different code CDM port groups.

[0055] The second device 120 may dynamically adapt the spatial factor, which may depend on network energy consumption, traffic demands, network conditions, etc. In some cases, the second device 120 may decide to disable some of the plurality of antenna port subsets. In this case, the second device 120 transmits a second indication 210 to the first device 110-1 to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports. In the example of FIG. 1, because the first devices 110-1 through 110-3 are in the same group, the second indication may be transmitted in a group common message specific to the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3, such as, for example, a DCI, a MAC CE, etc.

[0056] In some exemplary embodiments, each of the groups of devices 110-1 to 110-3 can receive the second indication in a group common message based on a Radio Network Temporary Identity (RNTI), a Search Space Set (SSS), a Control Resource Set (CORESET), etc.

[0057] In some exemplary embodiments, the second indication in the group common message is: First information relating to whether at least one secondary subset of antenna ports for the corresponding first device 110 is enabled or disabled. If the first device 110 is configured with multiple secondary subsets, second information related to which of the at least one secondary subset for the corresponding first device 110 is enabled or disabled. Third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the first device 110. It may include at least one of:

[0058] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the same second indication disabling or enabling the antenna port subset may be sent to all first devices 110-1 to 110-3, which may be preferable in the case of cell or UE group specific CSI-RS resources.

[0059] In some other embodiments, the second indication may be sent separately to different UEs. Referring to FIG. 2, the second device 120 may send the second indication 215 in a message specific to the first device 110-N. The message may be, for example, a DCI, a MAC CE, etc. It should be understood that in some other embodiments, the second device 120 may also send the second indication in separate messages (e.g., DCI, MAC CE, etc.) for devices in the same group.

[0060] In some exemplary embodiments, information related to which one or more CSI-RS resources or CSI-RS resource sets at least one antenna subset port corresponds (i.e., as indicated as disabled or enabled) may also be transmitted in or along with the second indication. Additionally or alternatively, in some other embodiments, such information may be transmitted via a message (e.g., DCI, MAC CE, RRC, etc.) separate from the message used to transmit the second indication.

[0061] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second device 120 is one of multiple TRPs serving the first device 110, and each TRP can have at least one antenna port subset that can be dynamically disabled, enabled, or re-enabled. In this case, the second indication, or a separate indication (via DCI, MAC CE, or RRC), can also carry information regarding which TRP(s) the at least one indicated disabled antenna port subset corresponds to, where the TRP can be identified, for example, by a TRP ID, CORESETPoolIndex, or physical cell ID, etc.

[0062] In the case of multiple TPRs, the second device 120 can use the same message to send a second indication to disable the antenna port subset for each of the TRPs. Additionally or alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, an association between an identifier of the TRP (e.g., a TRP ID, a CORESETPoolIndex, or a PCI) and at least one secondary port subset can be configured. For example, if a CORESETPoolIndex is used to indicate the TRP, together with the association of at least one secondary port subset with the respective CORESETPoolIndex, the first device 110 can know which antenna port subset to concern based on the CORESET for which the PDCCH carrying the DCI or the scheduling PDSCH carrying the MAC CE includes the second indication. The antenna port subset is associated with the CORESETPoolIndex to which the CORESET belongs.

[0063] The UE does not need to maintain measurements or report CSI for the disabled antenna port subsets. Thus, the first device 110 can determine a subset of antenna ports to activate based on the first indication and the second indication. For example, the first device 110-1 can determine at least one first subset of antenna ports 220 from a plurality of subsets of antenna ports based on the first indication and the second indication. In the context of the example embodiment, the at least one first subset of antenna ports refers to at least one activated subset of antenna ports used for communication between the first device 110 and the second device 120. Similarly, the first devices 110-2 through 110-N can also determine corresponding first subsets of antenna ports based on the first and second indications.

[0064] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second device 120 may then transmit 225 at least one CSI-RS to the first device 110 via at least one first subset of antenna ports. With first device 110-1 representing first devices 110-1 through 110-N, the first device 110-1 may measure 230 at least one CSI-RS corresponding to at least one first subset of antenna ports. In this case, the first device 110 may then transmit 235 to the second device 120 a first CSI report associated with the measurement results of the at least one CSI-RS.

[0065] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second device 120 may decide to re-enable some of the antenna port subsets that were previously disabled. In this case, the second device 120 may transmit a third indication 240 enabling at least one subset that was disabled via the second indication. Similarly, the third indication may be transmitted via a group common message specific to the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3. Additionally, or alternatively, the second device 120 may transmit the third indication 245 in a separate message specific to an individual device, e.g., the first device 110-N.

[0066] Still taking the first device 110-1 as representative, in this case the first device 110-1 may determine 250 a plurality of second subsets of antenna ports from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports based on the third indication. The second device 120 may transmit 255 a plurality of CSI-RS corresponding to the plurality of second subsets of antenna ports. Thus, the first device 110 may measure 260 a plurality of CSI-RS. The first device 110 may then transmit 265 a second CSI report associated with the plurality of CSI-RS to the second device 120.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the primary subset of antenna ports may not be dynamically disabled, or in some other embodiments, the primary subset of antenna ports may be dynamically disabled or enabled in a similar manner as described for the secondary subset of antenna ports.

[0068] In some demonstrative embodiments, the first device 110 determines that at least one secondary subset of antenna ports is disabled based on the second indication. Based on this determination, the first device 110 can apply a CBSR or related parameter (e.g., an ng-N1-N2 parameter) associated with the at least one secondary subset of antenna ports to the first device 110. In this case, the association of the antenna port subset and the CBSR implicitly indicates whether the N1-N2 parameter is applied. This can eliminate dynamic configuration or indication of the CBSR, thereby reducing signaling overhead and power consumption.

[0069] In addition to the second indication of enabling or disabling the antenna port subset, other configurations or parameters may also be indicated to the first device 110 in an individual device-specific or group-specific message. In some exemplary embodiments, the second device 120 may transmit a fourth indication of CBSR, e.g., the ng-N1-N2 parameter or the N1-N2 parameter. Additionally or alternatively, the second device 120 may transmit a fifth indication of rank restriction to the first device 110.

[0070] Either or both of the fourth and fifth indications may be transmitted in a similar manner as described for the second indication, i.e. in separate DCIs or MAC CEs for different UEs, or alternatively in the same DCI or MAC CE for multiple UEs, e.g., via group common signaling as described above.

[0071] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth indication of CBSR can be transmitted along with the second indication to disable or enable the antenna port subset. FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary group common configuration 300 in some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The group common configuration 300 can be used to carry the second indication in a group common message, e.g., DCI, MAC CE specific to the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3. It should be understood that the length of the group common configuration 300 can be extended depending on the number of devices in the group.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 3, the group common configuration 300 includes at least a first field for port subset disable or enable and a second field for CBSR. The size of the first field can depend on the number of secondary antenna port subsets. If a single secondary subset of antenna ports is configured, only one bit is present in the first field. The first field includes at least one bit for indicating whether at least one of multiple subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled. The size of the second field can depend on the general number of CBSR or N1-N2 parameters or a number dedicated to dynamic change. The second field includes at least one bit for indicating CBSR for the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3. In some exemplary embodiments, in addition to disabling or enabling the port subset, rank restriction can also be indicated for each of the first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0073] In some demonstrative embodiments, if second device 120 is a multi-panel gNB, e.g., a Type I multi-panel, the multi-panel restriction (e.g., the ng-N1-N2 parameters) and / or the number of panels may be indicated to multiple UEs via a group-common DCI or MAC CE. Alternatively, either or both pieces of information may be indicated to different UEs via separate DCIs or MAC CEs. In this case, second device 120 may transmit a sixth indication of at least one of the multi-panel restriction for second device 120, the number of antenna panels, or which panels are muted or active.

[0074] In some exemplary embodiments, the following parameters or configurations are also used: CSI-RS-ResourceMapping or any of the parameters within this information element (IE) (nrofPorts, frequencyDomainAllocation, etc.) Any parameters in the NZP-CSI-RS-Resource IE, such as CSI-ResourcePeriodicityAndOffset or resource mapping ● Any parameter in CodebookConfig At least one of the DCI or MAC CE may be indicated via a separate DCI or MAC CE for different UEs or groups or a common DCI or MAC CE for different UEs or groups.

[0075] It should be understood that some of the steps in process 200 may be optional or omitted, and the order of the steps is given for illustrative purposes. Additionally, some of the steps may be performed in parallel with other steps. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited in this respect.

[0076] 4 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 400 in some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Method 400 may be implemented in a first terminal device, such as first device 110 (i.e., any one or more of first devices 110-1 through 110-N) described with reference to FIG. 1. For purposes of discussion, method 400 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. However, in some other embodiments, method 400 may also be implemented in any other device, such as a gNB, such as a CU, DU, etc. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0077] At 410, the first device 110 receives a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports from the second device 120. The first indication may be via, for example, a DCI, a MAC CE, an RRC message, a system broadcast message, or the like. In some example embodiments, the multiple subsets of antenna ports may comprise a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of CSI-RS resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of CSI-RS resources.

[0078] At 420, the first device 110 receives a second indication from the second device to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0079] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second indication may be via a DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to first device 110, or via a system broadcast message. In other words, a different and separate second indication may be transmitted by second device 120 to each of first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0080] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second indication may be via a DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to a group of devices that comprises first device 110. In this case, the second indication may be received based on at least one of an RNTI of the group of devices, an SSS associated with the group of devices, or a control resource (e.g., CORESET) associated with the group of devices. In this case, the second indication is provided as a group-common indication, and the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3 may share the same second indication.

[0081] In some example embodiments, where the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and a plurality of secondary subsets of antenna ports corresponding to a group of devices 110-1 through 110-3, the second indication may be: first information relating to whether at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the first device 110 is enabled or disabled; or second information relating to which of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the first device 110 is enabled or disabled; or Third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the first device 110. It may include at least one of:

[0082] In some exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports may correspond to a CDM group.

[0083] In some other exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises at least one of at least one antenna port from the same CDM port group or at least one antenna port across different CDM port groups.

[0084] In some demonstrative embodiments, after receiving the first and second indications, the first device 110 may determine at least one first subset of antenna ports from a plurality of subsets of antenna ports based on the first and second indications. In this case, the at least one first subset of antenna ports refers to at least one active subset of antenna ports used for communication between the first device 110 and the second device 120. Accordingly, the first device 110 may measure at least one CSI-RS corresponding to the at least one first subset of antenna ports. The first device 110 may then transmit a first CSI report associated with the at least one CSI-RS to the second device 120.

[0085] In some demonstrative embodiments, after receiving the first and second indications, the first device 110 may receive from the second device 120 a third indication enabling at least one subset that was disabled via the second indication. In other words, the second device 120 transmits a third indication re-enabling some of the previously disabled subsets. The first device 110 may determine a second subset of antenna ports from the second subset of antenna ports based on the third indication. In this case, the second subset of antenna ports refers to an active subset of antenna ports used for communication between the first device 110 and the second device 120. Thus, the first device 110 may measure a plurality of CSI-RS corresponding to the second subset of antenna ports. The first device 110 may then transmit a second CSI report associated with the CSI-RS to the second device 120.

[0086] In some exemplary embodiments, where the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the first device 110, the first device 110 may determine, based on the second indication, that at least one second subset of antenna ports is disabled. Based on the determination, the first device 110 may apply a CBSR or related parameters (e.g., N1, N2 parameters) associated with the at least one secondary subset of antenna ports to the first device 110. In this case, the association of the antenna port subset and the CBSR implicitly indicates whether the N1-N2 parameters are applied. This may reduce signaling overhead and power consumption, since dynamic configuration or indication of the CBSR may be omitted.

[0087] In some demonstrative embodiments, first device 110 may receive at least one of a fourth indication of CBSR or a fifth indication of rank restriction from second device 120. Either or both of the fourth and fifth indications may include: DCI, MAC CE, etc. that are specific to the first device 110, i.e. sent in separate messages for different UEs, or DCI, MAC CE, etc., specific to the group of devices comprising the first device 110, or sent in a system broadcast message, i.e., the same group common message to multiple UEs. The communication can be via at least one of the following:

[0088] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth indication of CBSR can be received along with the second indication in a message specific to a group of devices comprising the first device 110. The message can comprise at least a first field of port subset disable or enable and a second field of CBSR. The first field can comprise at least one bit indicating whether at least one of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled. In some cases, the number of bits in the first field can depend on the number of secondary subsets of antenna ports. If a single secondary subset of antenna ports is configured, there is one bit in the first field. The second field can include at least one bit indicating CBSR for the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3. The number of bits in the second field can depend on the number of settings for the CBSR or N1-N2 parameters, whether general or dedicated to dynamic change. In some example embodiments, in addition to disabling or enabling a subset of ports, rank restrictions may also be indicated for each of first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0089] For a multi-panel gNB, such as a Type I multi-panel, the multi-panel limit (e.g., ng-N1-N2 parameters), number of panels, etc., can be indicated to multiple UEs via separate indications or a group-wide indication. In some exemplary embodiments, the first device 110 can receive a sixth indication from the second device 120, the sixth indication being at least one of the multi-panel limit for the second device 120, or the number of antenna panels, or which panels are muted or active. The sixth indicator can be received together with the second indication or can be received separately from the second indication.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the sixth indication may be: DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to the first device 110, or DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to the group of devices comprising the first device 110, or system broadcast messages The communication can be via at least one of the following:

[0091] In some example embodiments where the second indication is via a message specific to a group of devices that comprises first device 110, the second indication may include the following: CSI-RS resource mapping information, such as CSI-RS-ResourceMapping or any parameter within this IE; Number of antenna ports, such as nrofPorts CSI resource periodicity and offset parameters such as CSI-ResourcePeriodicityAndOffset Resource mapping parameters for NZP-CSI-RS resources; ●Codebook structure can be received with at least one of

[0092] In some demonstrative embodiments, the first device 110 may receive, from the second device 120, a seventh indication of CSI-RS resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, where the seventh indication may be received together with the second indication or may be received separately from the second indication.

[0093] In some example embodiments in which the second device 120 comprises at least one of a multiple transmission / reception point (multi-TRP), the first device 110 may receive, from the second device 120, an eighth indication of at least one identifier of the at least one transmission / reception point associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, where the eighth indication may be received together with the second indication or may be received separately from the second indication.

[0094] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one identifier may comprise at least one of at least one TRP ID, at least one CORESETPoolIndex, and at least one physical cell identity.

[0095] In some exemplary embodiments, the association of each identifier of the multiple TRPs with the subsets of antenna ports can be predetermined. In this case, the first device 110 can determine at least one identifier of the at least one TRP that corresponds to at least one resource for receiving the second indication. The first device 110 can then determine at least one subset of antenna ports associated with the at least one identifier of the at least one TRP.

[0096] In some demonstrative embodiments, the first device 110 may comprise a terminal device (e.g., a UE), and the second device 120 may comprise a network device (e.g., a gNB).

[0097] 5 shows a flowchart of an example method 500 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Method 500 may be implemented in a network device, such as second device 120 described with reference to FIG. 1. For purposes of discussion, method 500 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. However, in some other embodiments, method 500 may be implemented in any other device. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0098] At 510, the second device 120 sends a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports to the first device 110. The first indication can be via, for example, a DCI, a MAC CE, an RRC message, a system broadcast message, or the like.

[0099] In some example embodiments, the multiple subsets of antenna ports may comprise a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of CSI-RS resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of CSI-RS resources.

[0100] At 520, the second device 120 transmits a second indication to the first device 110 to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0101] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second indication may be via a DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to first device 110, or via a system broadcast message. In other words, a different and separate second indication may be transmitted by second device 120 to each of first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0102] In some example embodiments, the second indication may be via a DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to a group of devices that includes first device 110. In this case, the second indication may be transmitted based on at least one of an RNTI of the group of devices, an SSS associated with the group of devices, or a control resource (e.g., CORESET) associated with the group of devices. In this case, the second indication is provided as a group-wide indication, and the group of devices 110-1 through 110-3 may share the same second indication.

[0103] In some example embodiments comprising a primary subset of antenna ports and multiple secondary subsets of antenna ports, where the multiple subsets of antenna ports correspond to a group of devices 110-1 through 110-3, the second indication may be: first information relating to whether at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the first device 110 is enabled or disabled; or second information relating to which of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the first device 110 is enabled or disabled; or Third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the first device 110. It may include at least one of:

[0104] In some exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports may correspond to a CDM group.

[0105] In some other exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises at least one of at least one antenna port from the same CDM port group or at least one antenna port across different CDM port groups.

[0106] In some demonstrative embodiments, after receiving the first and second indications, the second device 120 may transmit at least one CSI-RS to the first device 119 via at least a first subset of antenna ports from a plurality of subsets of antenna ports. The second device 120 may then receive from the first device 110 a first CSI report associated with the at least one CSI-RS.

[0107] In some demonstrative embodiments, after receiving the first and second indications, the second device 120 may send a third indication to the first device 110 enabling at least one subset that was disabled via the second indication. The second device 120 may transmit a plurality of CSI-RS corresponding to a plurality of second subsets of antenna ports from a plurality of subsets of antenna ports to the first device 110. The second device 120 may then receive a second CSI report associated with the plurality of CSI-RS from the first device 110.

[0108] In some exemplary embodiments, where the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the first device 110, the second indication may implicitly indicate that a CBSR or associated parameters (e.g., N1, N2 parameters) associated with at least one secondary subset of antenna ports is applicable. In other words, the association of the antenna port subset and the CBSR implicitly indicates whether the N1-N2 parameters are applicable. In this case, the configuration or indication of the CBSR may be omitted, thereby reducing signaling overhead and power consumption.

[0109] In some demonstrative embodiments, second device 120 may transmit at least one of a fourth indication of CBSR or a fifth indication of rank restriction to first device 110. Either or both of the fourth and fifth indications may include the following: DCI, MAC CE, etc. that are specific to the first device 110, i.e. sent in separate messages for different UEs, or DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to a group of devices comprising the first device 110, or a system broadcast message, i.e., sent in the same group common message to multiple UEs The communication can be via at least one of the following:

[0110] In some exemplary embodiments, the fourth indication of CBSR can be received along with the second indication in a message specific to a group of devices comprising the first device 110. The message can comprise at least a first field for port subset disable or enable and a second field for CBSR. The first field can comprise at least one bit indicating whether at least one of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled. In some cases, the number of bits in the first field can depend on the number of secondary subsets of antenna ports. If a single secondary subset of antenna ports is configured, there is one bit in the first field. The second field can include at least one bit indicating CBSR for the group of devices 110-1 through 110-N. The number of bits in the second field can depend on the number of settings for the CBSR or N1-N2 parameters, whether general or dedicated to dynamic change. In some example embodiments, in addition to disabling or enabling a subset of ports, second device 120 may also indicate a rank restriction to each of first devices 110-1 through 110-N.

[0111] In the case of a multi-panel gNB, e.g., in the case of a Type I multi-panel, the multi-panel limit (e.g., ng-N1-N2 parameters), number of panels, etc., can be indicated to multiple UEs via separate indications or a group-wide indication. In some exemplary embodiments, the second device 120 may send a sixth indication to the second device 120 of at least one of the multi-panel limit for the second device 120, or the number of antenna panels, or which panels are muted or active. The sixth indicator can be received together with the second indication or can be received separately from the second indication.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, the sixth indication may be: DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to the first device 110; DCI, MAC CE, etc. specific to a group of devices comprising the first device 110, or a system broadcast message The communication can be via at least one of the following:

[0113] In some example embodiments where the second indication is via a message specific to a group of devices that comprises the first device 110, the second indication may include the following: CSI-RS resource mapping information, e.g., CSI-RS-ResourceMapping or any parameter within this IE; Number of antenna ports, such as nrofPorts CSI resource periodicity and offset parameters such as CSI-ResourcePeriodicityAndOffset Resource mapping parameters for NZP-CSI-RS resources ●Codebook structure The signal may be received together with at least one of the following:

[0114] In some demonstrative embodiments, the second device 120 may transmit a seventh indication of CSI-RS resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication to the first device 110. The seventh indication may be transmitted together with the second indication or may be transmitted separately from the second indication.

[0115] In some exemplary embodiments in which the second device 120 comprises at least one of multiple TRPs, the second device 120 may transmit to the first device 110 an eighth indication of at least one identifier of at least one TRP associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication. The eighth indication may be transmitted together with the second indication or may be transmitted separately from the second indication.

[0116] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one identifier may comprise at least one of at least one TRP ID, at least one CORESETPoolIndex, and at least one physical cell ID.

[0117] In some exemplary embodiments, the association of each identifier of the multiple TRPs with the subsets of antenna ports can be predetermined. In this case, from the perspective of the first device 110, at least one identifier of the at least one TRP corresponding to at least one resource for receiving the second indication can be determined. The first device 110 can then determine at least one subset of antenna ports associated with the at least one identifier of the at least one TRP.

[0118] In some demonstrative embodiments, the first device 110 may comprise a terminal device (e.g., a UE), and the second device 120 may comprise a network device (e.g., a gNB).

[0119] In an exemplary embodiment, group-common indication is supported for antenna port-related configuration. Through efficient adaptation of the antenna port-related configuration, antenna port subsets can be dynamically disabled or re-enabled in the RAN. In this way, power consumption in the network can be reduced and communication efficiency can be improved.

[0120] In some exemplary embodiments, an apparatus (e.g., first device 110) capable of executing method 400 may comprise means for performing each step of method 400. The means may be embodied in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented in a circuit or a software module. In some embodiments, the means may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code, together with the at least one processor, are configured to cause the apparatus to execute.

[0121] In some exemplary embodiments, an apparatus comprises means for receiving, from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and means for receiving, from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0122] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of channel state information reference signal resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of channel state information reference signal resources.

[0123] In some exemplary embodiments, the second indication is via downlink control information or a device-specific medium access control control element.

[0124] In some example embodiments, the second indication is made via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to a group of devices comprising the device, the second indication being: Wireless network temporary identities for a group of devices, or a search space set associated with a group of devices, or Control resources associated with a group of devices The signal is received based on at least one of:

[0125] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and a plurality of secondary subsets of antenna ports corresponding to the group of devices, and the second indication is: first information related to whether at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the device is enabled or disabled; or second information relating to which of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the device is enabled or disabled; or Third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the device. At least one of

[0126] In some exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports corresponds to a code division multiplexed port group.

[0127] In some exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises at least one of at least one antenna port from the same code division multiplexing port group or at least one antenna port across different code division multiplexing port groups.

[0128] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: means for determining at least one first subset of antenna ports from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports according to the first indication and the second indication; means for measuring at least one channel state information reference signal provided for the at least one first subset of antenna ports; and means for transmitting a first channel state information report associated with the at least one channel state information reference signal to the network device.

[0129] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving a third indication from the network device, the third indication enabling at least one subset that was disabled via the second indication; means for determining a second subset of the plurality of antenna ports from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports based on the third indication; means for measuring a plurality of channel state information reference signals corresponding to the second subset of the plurality of antenna ports; and means for transmitting a second channel state information report associated with the plurality of channel state information reference signals to the network device.

[0130] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the device, the device further comprising: means for determining, based on the second indication, at least one secondary subset of antenna ports to be disabled; and means for applying, to the device, a codebook subset restriction or related parameter associated with the at least one secondary subset of antenna ports based on determining, based on the second indication, at least one secondary subset of antenna ports to be disabled.

[0131] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving at least one of a fourth indication of a codebook subset restriction or a fifth indication of a rank restriction from the network device.

[0132] In some exemplary embodiments, at least one of the fourth instruction or the fifth instruction comprises: Downlink control information or device-specific medium access control control elements, or Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising the device via at least one of the following:

[0133] In some example embodiments, the fourth indication is received together with the second indication in a message, the message comprising: a first field including at least one bit indicating whether at least one of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled; and a second field including at least one bit indicating a codebook subset restriction for a group of devices; Equipped with.

[0134] In some example embodiments, the apparatus receives from the network device: ●Multi-panel restrictions on network devices, or ● The number of antenna panels on the network device; the sixth indication is received together with the second indication or separately from the second indication.

[0135] In some exemplary embodiments, the sixth indication is: Device-specific downlink control information or medium access control control elements Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising the device via at least one of the following:

[0136] In some example embodiments, the second indication is via a message specific to a group of devices that includes the device, the second indication comprising: Channel state information reference signal resource mapping information; ● Frequency domain allocation settings ●Number of antenna ports ● The periodicity and offset parameters of the channel state information resource; resource mapping parameters for non-zero power channel state information reference signal resources; ●Codebook structure is received along with at least one of

[0137] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving, from the network device, a seventh indication of channel state information reference signal resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, wherein the seventh indication is received together with the second indication or separately from the second indication.

[0138] In some example embodiments, the network device comprises at least one of the plurality of transmission and reception points, and the apparatus further comprises means for receiving from the network device an eighth indication of at least one identifier of the at least one transmission and reception point associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, wherein the eighth indication is received together with the second indication or separately from the second indication.

[0139] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one identifier comprises at least one of at least one transmit / receive port identity, at least one control resource set pool index, and at least one physical cell identity.

[0140] In some exemplary embodiments, an association between each identifier of the plurality of transmission / reception points and a plurality of subsets of antenna ports is predetermined, and the apparatus further comprises means for determining at least one identifier of the at least one transmission / reception point corresponding to at least one resource for receiving the second indication, and means for determining at least one subset of antenna ports associated with the at least one identifier of the at least one transmission / reception point.

[0141] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus comprises a terminal device. In some exemplary embodiments, an apparatus capable of executing method 500 (e.g., second device 120) may comprise means for performing each step of method 500. The means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented in a circuit or a software module. In some embodiments, the means may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code, together with the at least one processor, are configured to cause the apparatus to execute.

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus comprises means for transmitting, to a terminal device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; and means for transmitting, to the terminal device, a second indication disabling at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

[0143] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of channel state information reference signal resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of channel state information reference signal resources.

[0144] In some exemplary embodiments, the second indication is made via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to the terminal device.

[0145] In some example embodiments, the second indication is via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to a group of apparatus comprising the terminal device, the second indication comprising: Wireless network temporary identities of groups of terminal devices, or a search space set associated with a group of devices, or Control resources associated with a group of devices is transmitted based on at least one of the following:

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and a plurality of secondary subsets of antenna ports corresponding to the group of devices, and the second indication is: first information relating to whether at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the terminal device is enabled or disabled; or Second information relating to which of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the terminal device is enabled or disabled. Third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for a terminal device. It comprises at least one of the following:

[0147] In some exemplary embodiments, one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports corresponds to a code division multiplexed port group.

[0148] In some exemplary embodiments, a subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports is one of the following: At least one antenna port from the same code division multiplexing port group, or At least one antenna port across different code division multiplexing port groups It comprises at least one of the following:

[0149] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting at least one channel state information reference signal from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports via at least a first subset of antenna ports to the terminal device, and means for receiving from the terminal device a first channel state information report associated with the at least one channel state information reference signal.

[0150] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting a third indication to the terminal device, the third indication enabling at least one subset that was disabled via the second indication; means for transmitting a plurality of channel state information reference signals corresponding to the second subset of the plurality of antenna ports from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports to the terminal device; and means for receiving a second channel state information report associated with the plurality of channel state information reference signals from the terminal device.

[0151] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting at least one of a fourth indication of the codebook subset restriction or a fifth indication of the rank restriction to the terminal device.

[0152] In some exemplary embodiments, at least one of the fourth indication or the fifth indication is: Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the terminal device, or Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of equipment comprising a terminal device via at least one of the following:

[0153] In some example embodiments, the fourth indication is received together with the second indication in a message, the message comprising: a first field comprising at least one bit indicating whether at least one of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled; and a second field including at least one bit indicating a codebook subset restriction for a group of devices; Equipped with.

[0154] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus may provide the terminal device with: ● Multi-panel restrictions on the device, or ● the number of antenna panels for the device; the sixth indication is transmitted together with the second indication or separately from the second indication.

[0155] In some exemplary embodiments, the sixth indication is: Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the terminal device, or Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of equipment comprising a terminal device via at least one of the following:

[0156] In some example embodiments, the second indication is via a message specific to a group of apparatus comprising the terminal device, the second indication comprising: Channel state information, reference signal, and resource mapping information ● Frequency domain allocation settings ●Number of antenna ports ● The periodicity and offset parameters of the channel state information resource; Resource mapping parameters for non-zero channel state information reference signal resources ●Codebook structure is received along with at least one of

[0157] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting to the terminal device a seventh indication of channel state information reference signal resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, wherein the seventh indication is transmitted together with the second indication or transmitted separately from the second indication.

[0158] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus comprises at least one of the plurality of transmission and reception points, and the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting, to the terminal device, an eighth indication of at least one indicator of the at least one transmission and reception point associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication, wherein the eighth indication is transmitted together with the second indication or separately from the second indication.

[0159] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one identifier comprises at least one of at least one transmit / receive port identity, at least one control resource set pool index, and at least one physical cell identity.

[0160] In some exemplary embodiments, the association of identifiers of each of the plurality of transmission / reception points with the plurality of subsets of antenna ports is predetermined.

[0161] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus comprises a network device.

[0162] 6 is a simplified block diagram of a device 600 suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 600 can be provided to implement a communications device such as the first device 110 or the second device 120 shown in FIG. 1. As shown, the device 600 includes one or more processors 610, one or more memories 620 coupled to the processors 610, and one or more transmitters and / or receivers (TX / RX) 640 (i.e., communications modules 640) coupled to the processors 610.

[0163] The TX / RX 640 is for bidirectional communication. The TX / RX 640 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication. The communication interface can refer to any interface required for communication with other network elements.

[0164] Processor 610 may be of any type suitable for a local technology network, including, by way of non-limiting example, one or more of a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 600 may have multiple processors, such as application specific integrated circuit chips, time-slaved to a clock that synchronizes a main processor.

[0165] Memory 620 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, Read Only Memory (ROM) 624, Electrically Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, hard disks, Compact Discs (CDs), Digital Video Discs (DVDs), and other magnetic and / or optical storage mechanisms. Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, Random Access Memory (RAM) 622 and other volatile memories that do not persist through power-down durations.

[0166] The computer program 630 includes computer-executable instructions that are executed by the associated processor 610. The program 630 may be stored in the ROM 624. The processor 610 can load the program 630 into the RAM 622 to perform any appropriate operations and processes.

[0167] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by a program 630 that causes a device 600 to perform any of the processes of the present disclosure, as described with reference to Figures 2 to 5. The embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or a combination of software and hardware.

[0168] In some embodiments, the program 630 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium, which may be included in the device 600 (such as in memory 620) or other storage device accessible by the device 600. The device 600 may load the program 630 from the computer-readable medium into RAM 622 for execution. The computer-readable medium may include any type of tangible non-volatile storage, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc. Figure 7 shows an example of a computer-readable medium 700 in the form of a CD or DVD, on which the program 630 is stored.

[0169] In general, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. While various aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described using block diagrams, flowcharts, or some other pictorial representations, it should be understood that the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in, by way of non-limiting example, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller, or other computing device, or some combination thereof.

[0170] The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions, such as those included in program modules, that execute on a target real or virtual processor device to perform the method 400 or 500 described above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The functionality of the program modules may be combined or split among program modules as desired in various embodiments. The machine-executable instructions of the program modules may be executed in local or distributed devices. In distributed devices, the program modules may be located in both local and remote storage media.

[0171] Program code for implementing the methods of the present disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program codes can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that execution of the program code by the processor or controller performs the functions / acts specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams. The program code can run entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0172] In the context of the present disclosure, computer program code or associated data may be carried by 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, and the like.

[0173] The computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. Computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media may include an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0174] Furthermore, although operations are depicted in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular order shown, or sequentially, or that all of the operations depicted be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, while several specific implementation details are included in the above discussion, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0175] Although the present disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0176] 410 Receive a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports 420 receiving a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports.

Claims

1. a first device, at least one processor; at least one memory for storing instructions; Equipped with The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first device to: receiving a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports from a second device; receiving a second indication from the second device to disable at least one of the subset of antenna ports; A first device that causes

2. 2. The first device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of channel state information reference signal resources and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of channel state information reference signal resources.

3. The first device of claim 1 , wherein the second indication is made via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to the first device.

4. The second indication is made via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to a group of devices comprising the first device, the second indication being: a wireless network temporary identity for the group of devices; or a search space set associated with the group of devices; or Control resources associated with said group of devices The first device of claim 1 , wherein the first signal is received based on at least one of:

5. the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprising the primary subset of antenna ports and a plurality of secondary subsets of antenna ports corresponding to the group of devices; The second indication is first information related to whether at least one secondary subset of the antenna ports corresponding to the first device is enabled or disabled; or second information relating to whether any of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the first device is enabled or disabled; or third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the first device; The first device of claim 4 , comprising at least one of:

6. The first device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports corresponds to a code division multiplexed port group.

7. A subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports is: at least one antenna port from the same code division multiplexing port group, or at least one antenna port across a different code division multiplexing port group; The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising at least one of:

8. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: determining at least a first subset of antenna ports from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports based on the first indication and the second indication; measuring at least one channel state information reference signal corresponding to the at least one first subset of antenna ports; and transmitting to the second device a first channel state information report associated with the at least one channel state information reference signal; 6. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device stores instructions for causing the first device to perform the following:

9. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: receiving a third indication from the second device enabling at least one subset disabled via the second indication; determining a second subset of antenna ports from the subset of antenna ports based on the third indication; measuring a plurality of channel state information reference signals corresponding to a second subset of the antenna ports; and transmitting, to the second device, a second channel state information report associated with the plurality of channel state information reference signals; 9. The first device of claim 8, further comprising instructions for:

10. the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises a primary subset of antenna ports and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to the first device; The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: determining, based on the second indication, to disable at least one secondary subset of the antenna ports; applying, to the first device, a codebook subset restriction or related parameter associated with the at least one secondary subset of antenna ports based on determining to disable the at least one secondary subset of antenna ports based on the second indication; 6. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device stores instructions for causing the first device to perform the following:

11. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: receiving at least one of a fourth indication of codebook subset restriction or a fifth indication of rank restriction from the second device; 6. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device stores instructions for causing the first device to perform the following:

12. At least one of the fourth indication or the fifth indication is: downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the first device; or Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising said first device The first device of claim 11 via at least one of:

13. the fourth indication is received in a message together with the second indication; The message may be: a first field including at least one bit indicating whether at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled; a second field including at least one bit indicating a codebook subset restriction for the group of target devices; The first device of claim 12, comprising:

14. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: From the second device: a multi-panel restriction for the second device; or the number of antenna panels for the second device; receiving a sixth indication, the sixth indication being at least one of: and storing an instruction to perform the the sixth indication is received together with the second indication or is received separately from the second indication; A first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

15. The sixth indication is downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the first device; or downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising said first device; 15. The first device of claim 14 via at least one of:

16. the second indication is via a message specific to a group of devices that includes the first device; The second indication is Channel state information reference signal resource mapping information, or Frequency domain allocation settings, or the number of antenna ports, or the periodicity and offset parameters of the channel state information resource, or a resource mapping parameter to non-zero power channel state information reference signal resources; or Codebook Configuration The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first device receives the signal together with at least one of the following:

17. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: receiving, from the second device, a seventh indication of channel state information reference signal resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication; and storing an instruction to perform the the seventh indication is received together with the second indication or is received separately from the second indication; A first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

18. the second device comprises at least one of a plurality of transmitting and receiving points; The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: receiving an eighth indication from the second device of at least one identifier of at least one transmission / reception point associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication; and storing an instruction to perform the the eighth indication is received together with the second indication or is received separately from the second indication; A first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

19. The at least one identifier is: At least one send / receive port identifier; or At least one controlled resource set pool index, or at least one physical cell identifier; 20. The first device of claim 18, comprising at least one of:

20. an association between each identifier of the plurality of transmitting and receiving points and a plurality of subsets of the antenna ports is predetermined; The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the first device to: determining at least one identifier of at least one transmitting / receiving point corresponding to at least one resource for receiving the second indication; determining at least a subset of the antenna ports associated with the at least one identifier of the at least one transmitting / receiving point; 20. The first device of claim 19, further comprising:

21. The first device of any preceding claim, wherein the first device comprises a terminal device and the second device comprises a network device.

22. a second device, at least one processor; at least one memory for storing instructions; Equipped with The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second device to: transmitting a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports to a first device; transmitting a second indication to the first device disabling at least one of the subsets of antenna ports; A second device that causes the

23. 23. The second device of claim 22, wherein the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprises: a primary subset of antenna ports corresponding to a first set of channel state information reference signal resources; and at least one secondary subset of antenna ports corresponding to at least one second set of channel state information reference signal resources.

24. 23. The second device of claim 22, wherein the second indication is via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to the first device.

25. The second indication is via downlink control information or a medium access control control element specific to a group of devices comprising the first device, and the second indication comprises: a wireless network temporary identity for the group of devices; or a search space set associated with the group of devices; or control resources associated with said group of devices; 23. The second device of claim 22, wherein the second device is transmitted based on at least one of:

26. the plurality of subsets of antenna ports comprising a primary subset of antenna ports and a plurality of secondary subsets of antenna ports corresponding to the group of devices; The second indication is first information related to whether at least one secondary subset of the antenna ports corresponding to the first device is enabled or disabled; or second information relating to whether any of the at least one secondary subset corresponding to the first device is enabled or disabled; or third information relating to whether at least one of the first information or the second information is intended for the first device; 26. The second device of claim 25, comprising at least one of:

27. The second device of any of claims 22 to 26, wherein one subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports corresponds to a code division multiplexed port group.

28. A subset of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports may be: at least one antenna port from the same code division multiplexing port group, or at least one antenna port across a different code division multiplexing port group; The second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26, comprising at least one of:

29. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: transmitting at least one channel state information reference signal from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports to the first device via at least a first subset of antenna ports; and receiving, from the first device, a first channel state information report associated with a measurement result of the at least one channel state information reference signal; 27. A second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26, storing instructions to cause the second device to:

30. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: sending a third indication to the first device enabling at least one subset disabled via the second indication; transmitting, from the plurality of subsets of antenna ports, a plurality of channel state information reference signals corresponding to a plurality of second subsets of antenna ports to the first device; and receiving, from the first device, a second channel state information report associated with the plurality of channel state information reference signals; 30. The second device of claim 29, further comprising:

31. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: transmitting at least one of a fourth indication of a codebook subset restriction or a fifth indication of a rank restriction to the first device; 23. A second device according to any one of claims 18 to 22, storing instructions to cause the second device to:

32. At least one of the fourth indication or the fifth indication is: downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the first device; or Downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising said first device 32. The second device of claim 31 via at least one of:

33. the fourth indication is received in a message together with the second indication; The message may be: a first field including at least one bit indicating whether at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports is disabled or enabled; a second field including at least one bit indicating a codebook subset restriction for the group of devices; 33. The second device of claim 32, comprising:

34. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: the first device, Multi-panel limitations on the second device, or the number of antenna panels of the second device; transmitting a sixth indication, the sixth indication being at least one of: and storing an instruction to perform the the sixth indication is transmitted together with the second indication or is transmitted separately from the second indication. A second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26.

35. The sixth indication is downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to the first device; or downlink control information or medium access control control elements specific to a group of devices comprising said first device; 35. The second device of claim 34 via at least one of:

36. the second indication is via a message specific to a group of devices that includes the first device; The second indication is Channel state information reference signal resource mapping information, or Frequency domain allocation settings, or Number of antenna ports, or the periodicity and offset parameters of the channel state information resource, or a resource mapping parameter to non-zero power channel state information reference signal resources; or Codebook Configuration The second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26, wherein the second device receives the signal together with at least one of the following:

37. The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: transmitting to the first device a seventh indication of channel state information reference signal resource information associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication; and storing an instruction to perform the the seventh indication is transmitted together with the second indication or is transmitted separately from the second indication. A second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26.

38. the second device comprises at least one of a plurality of transmitting and receiving points; The at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, further causes the second device to: transmitting to the first device an eighth indication of at least one identifier of at least one transmission / reception point associated with at least a subset of the antenna ports indicated via the second indication; and storing an instruction to perform the the eighth indication is transmitted together with the second indication or is transmitted separately from the second indication. A second device according to any one of claims 22 to 26.

39. The at least one identifier is: At least one send and receive port identity; or At least one controlled resource set pool index, or at least one physical cell identifier; 39. The second device of claim 38, comprising at least one of:

40. 40. The second device of claim 39, wherein associations between identifiers of each of the plurality of transmission / reception points and the plurality of subsets of antenna ports are predetermined.

41. 41. The second device of any of claims 22 to 40, wherein the first device comprises a terminal device and the second device comprises a network device.

42. 1. A method comprising: receiving a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports at the terminal device and from the network device; receiving, at the terminal device and from the network device, a second indication to disable at least one of the subsets of antenna ports; A method comprising:

43. 1. A method comprising: transmitting a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports at the network device and to the terminal device; transmitting, at the network device and to the terminal device, a second indication disabling at least one of the subsets of antenna ports; A method comprising:

44. 1. An apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from a network device, a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports; means for receiving a second indication from the network device to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports; 1. An apparatus comprising:

45. 1. An apparatus comprising: means for transmitting a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports to a terminal device; means for transmitting to the terminal device a second indication to disable at least one of the plurality of subsets of antenna ports; 1. An apparatus comprising:

46. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions, The instructions, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: receiving a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports from a network device; receiving a second indication from the network device to disable at least one of the subset of antenna ports; A computer-readable medium for causing

47. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions, The instructions, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: transmitting a first indication of a plurality of subsets of antenna ports to a terminal device; transmitting a second indication to the terminal device disabling at least one of the subsets of antenna ports; A computer-readable medium for causing

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