Device, method, apparatus and computer-readable medium for communications

Abstract

A terminal device receives a mapping restriction configuration for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) from a network device. The mapping restriction is configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The terminal device performs the LCP procedure and generates a MAC protocol data unit (PDU) for the CG based on the mapping restriction. The terminal device then transmits the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] With the development of communication technology, it has become possible for a terminal device to report status information of data to be transmitted to a network device. Generally, the status information includes the amount of data, the traffic type of the data, the quality of service (QoS) required for the data, etc., so that the network device can schedule communication resources of the terminal device accordingly. In some cases, the status information of the data to be transmitted may be included in a buffer status report (BSR). Then, the terminal device can send a medium access control (MAC) control unit (CE) for the BSR to the network device.

[0003] Furthermore, in order to achieve a performance trade-off for multiple traffics, each with different characteristics, it has been agreed to prioritize traffic data transmission buffered in a specific logical channel among multiple logical channels. Prioritizing traffic data transmission in a specific logical channel can also be referred to as a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure. Furthermore, MAC CE prioritization is also an important aspect. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Generally, the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure provide devices, methods, apparatus, and computer-readable storage media for beam reporting.

[0005] In a first aspect, a terminal device is provided. The terminal device may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to receive, from a network device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG). The mapping restrictions are configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The terminal device further performs the LCP procedure to generate a MAC protocol data unit (PDU) for the CG based on the mapping restrictions and transmit the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0006] In a second aspect, a network device is provided. The network device may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to transmit, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG). The mapping restrictions are configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE). The network device further receives a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0007] In a third aspect, a method is provided for a terminal device. The method includes receiving, from a network device, a configuration of a mapping restriction for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG). The mapping restriction is configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The method further includes performing an LCP procedure to generate a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction, and transmitting the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0008] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided that is implemented in a network device, the method including: transmitting, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); and receiving a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0009] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus for a terminal device is provided, the apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from a network device, a configuration of a mapping restriction for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG), the mapping restriction being configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), means for performing the LCP procedure to generate a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction, and means for transmitting the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0010] In a sixth aspect, an apparatus for a network device is provided, the apparatus comprising: means for transmitting, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); and means for receiving a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0011] In a seventh aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform a method according to at least any of the third to fourth aspects.

[0012] In an eighth aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product including instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least receive, from a network device, a configuration of a mapping restriction for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG). The mapping restriction is configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The terminal device further performs the LCP procedure, generates a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction, and transmits the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0013] In a ninth aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product including instructions, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least transmit, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG). The mapping restrictions are configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE). The network device further receives a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0014] In a tenth aspect, a terminal device is provided, the terminal device including: a receiving circuit configured to receive a mapping restriction configuration for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) from a network device; an executing circuit configured to execute the LCP procedure and generate a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction; and a transmitting circuit configured to transmit the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0015] In an eleventh aspect, a network device is provided, the network device comprising: a transmitting circuit configured to transmit a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) to a terminal device, the mapping restrictions being configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), the network device comprising a receiving circuit configured to receive a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0016] It should be understood that the Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become readily apparent through the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] Exemplary embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary network environment in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B illustrates an example of data traffic and corresponding QoS information according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is an example of a BSR report according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1D is an example of a BSR report according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 1E] FIG. 1E is an example of a BSR report according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates an example signaling process for applying a mapping restriction configuration to a MAC CE in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of BSR reporting with CG mapping restriction configuration application in some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of a method implemented in a terminal device in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flowchart of a method implemented in a network device in an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an example of a simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for practicing exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]7 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computer-readable medium in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The principles of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes to help those skilled in the art understand and practice the present disclosure, and are not intended to imply any limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein may be implemented in various forms other than those described below.

[0019] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0020] References in this disclosure to "one embodiment," "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 embodiment, it is understood that it is within the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly stated.

[0021] Although terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, it should be understood that these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0022] The terminology in the examples is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that as used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "has," "having," "includes," and / or "including" 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.

[0023] As used herein, the term "circuit" means (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (e.g., analog and / or digital-only implementations); (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software (if applicable); (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware; (ii) software (including digital signal processors), hardware processor portions with software and memory that work together to cause a device, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions; (c) A hardware circuit or processor, such as a microprocessor or part of a microprocessor, that requires software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but the software may be absent when not necessary for operation; It may refer to one or more, or all, of the following:

[0024] This definition of circuit applies to all uses of the term in this application, including any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term circuit also covers simply a hardware circuit or processor (or processors) or part of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware implementation. The term circuit also covers, for example, a baseband or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network equipment, or other computing or network equipment, if applicable to particular claim elements.

[0025] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network conforming to any suitable communication standard, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), or Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT). Furthermore, communication between terminal devices and network devices in a communication network may be performed according to any suitable generation of communication protocol, including, but not limited to, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G) communication protocols, and / or later. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to various communication systems. Given the rapid development of communications, there will, of course, be future communication technologies and systems in which the present disclosure may be embodied. The scope of the present disclosure should not be considered limited to only the aforementioned systems.

[0026] As used herein, the term "network equipment" refers to a node in a communication network through which terminal equipment accesses the network and receives services therefrom. Depending on the terminology and technology applied, network equipment may refer to a base station (BS) or access point (AP), e.g., a Node B (NodeB or NB), evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), NR NB (also referred to as gNB), remote radio unit (RRU), radio header (RH), remote radio head (RRH), relay, femto, pico, or other low-power node.

[0027] The term "terminal equipment" refers to any end device capable of wireless communication. By way of example and not limitation, terminal equipment may also be referred to as communication equipment, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), mobile subscriber station, mobile station (MS), or access terminal (AT). Terminal equipment includes, but is not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, voice over IP (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal equipment, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal equipment such as digital cameras, gaming terminal equipment, music storage and playback appliances, in-vehicle wireless terminal equipment, 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, wearables such as watches, 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 in commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. In the following description, the terms "terminal equipment," "communications equipment," "terminal," "user equipment," and "UE" may be used interchangeably.

[0028] As mentioned above, prioritization restrictions are not yet applied to MAC CE transmission. In some cases, the terminal equipment may want to send a BSR MAC CE every time traffic data arrives in order to notify the network equipment of the data to be transmitted in a timely manner. In general, it is unlikely that a BSR will be transmitted in this ideal manner. This is because, depending on the situation, the timer for triggering the transmission of a MAC CE for a BSR may be restarted, which will affect the consistency between the arrival time of the traffic data and the configuration grant (CG).

[0029] To solve at least the above problems and improve the performance of a communication system, a method for applying a priority restriction to a MAC CE is provided. In this method, a terminal device receives a mapping restriction configuration for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) from the terminal device. The mapping restriction is configured in a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The terminal device 110 performs the LCP procedure and generates a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction. The terminal device then transmits the MAC PDU to a network device via the CG.

[0030] In this way, the MAC CE for BSR can be transmitted in the CG associated with the mapping restriction, and thus by properly configuring the CG, the MAC CE for BSR can be transmitted in a timely manner. Although the embodiments in the present disclosure are always described with reference to the MAC CE for BSR, it should be understood that the solution proposed by the present disclosure is not limited in any way and can also be applied to MAC CEs for other purposes.

[0031] The principles and embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1A shows an exemplary network environment 100 in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. The environment 100, which may be part of a communication network, includes terminal equipment and network equipment.

[0032] 1, network environment 100 may include network equipment 110, terminal equipment 120, and 130. The terminal equipment as shown in FIG. 1A may be any terminal equipment as described above, or may be an electronic device for implementing extended reality (XR) traffic, such as virtual reality (VR) traffic, augmented reality (AR) traffic, and mixed reality (MR) traffic. In one embodiment, a CG may be configured in terminal equipment 120 and / or 130 by network equipment 110 via radio resource control (RRC) signaling. Then, terminal equipment 120 and / or terminal equipment 130 may transmit at least one of data of the traffic mapped based on the LCP procedure or the MAC CE to the network equipment via the CG.

[0033] It should be understood that the number of network devices and terminal devices is given for illustrative purposes only, without implying any limitation. System 100 may include any suitable number of network devices and / or terminal devices adapted to implement embodiments of the present disclosure. Although not shown, it should be understood that one or more terminal devices may be disposed in environment 100.

[0034] Communications in the network environment 100 may be conducted according to any suitable communications protocol(s), including, but not limited to, wireless local network communications protocols such as third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), fifth generation (5G), or later, 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, such as, but not limited to, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), time division multiplexing (TDM), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), code division multiplexing (CDM), Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, machine-based communications (MTC), enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communications (mMTC), ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC), carrier aggregation (CA), dual connection (DC), new radio unlicensed communications (NR-U) technologies, and the like.

[0035] FIG. 1B illustrates an example of data traffic and corresponding QoS information according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 1B illustrates, for illustrative purposes and without limitation, example characteristics and requirements of uplink data transmission for XR, e.g., characteristics and requirements of uplink data transmission for pause / control traffic, video traffic, or audio traffic. For pause / control traffic, the terminal device can periodically (e.g., every 4 ms) transmit fixed-size data to the network equipment via the CG. Furthermore, the QoS flow for the pause / control traffic is "low latency," "low data rate," and "high reliability." For voice traffic, the terminal device periodically (e.g., every 20 ms) transmits data to the network equipment via the CG. Furthermore, the QoS flow for audio traffic is "low latency," "low data rate," and "medium reliability." For video traffic, the terminal device also periodically transmits intraframes (I-frames) and predicted frames (P-frames) to the network equipment via the CG, but the data size is variable, e.g., 60 fps, 90 fps, or 120 fps. Furthermore, the QoS flow for I frames is "low latency," "high data rate," and "high reliability," while the QoS flow for P frames is "low latency," "high data rate," and "medium reliability."

[0037] At least in the case of video traffic, because the video traffic data has a variable size, it may be desirable to transmit or have a BSR report for the video traffic data as the video traffic data arrives. Generally, a periodic BSR aligned with the periodic data of video traffic is considered a natural choice. However, even if the periodicity of the video traffic is constant, it is difficult to always align the periodic BSR with the arrival timing of the video traffic. This is because, in some cases, if there are available resources in the uplink (UL) CG, the timer for the BSR is started or restarted each time a BSR or padding BSR is included in the MAC CE for the BSR. For illustrative purposes, several situations regarding BSR reporting are further described with reference to Figures 1C to 1E.

[0038] FIG. 1C illustrates an example of a BSR report that is ideally transmitted in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1C, a first time length 135 represents a discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle of the terminal device, a second time length 145 represents the ON time of the DRX cycle, and a third time length 151 represents the period of a periodic BSR timer.

[0040] In this embodiment, grants are set precisely at the beginning of every ON-DURATION, and no padding BSRs other than the truncated BSR are transmitted at the end of the CG. In this embodiment, it is possible to align the periodic BSR reporting with the DRX cycle; for example, BSR 149 is triggered in accordance with CG 147. However, this is rarely implemented because it is impossible to guarantee that only truncated BSRs are transmitted when padding BSRs are required. Otherwise, padding BSRs other than the truncated BSRs may trigger a restart of the periodic BSR timer, which may affect the above-mentioned alignment. For illustrative purposes, possible scenarios are further illustrated in Figures 1D and 1E.

[0041] In addition, several embodiments regarding BSR reporting and the periodic BSR timer are listed below: Specifically, the periodic BSR is triggered when the periodic BSR timer expires, and the periodic BSR timer is (re)started whenever a BSR is triggered and that BSR is not a truncated BSR, i.e., contains a complete picture of the BSR state. [Table 1] [Table 2]

[0042] FIG. 1C illustrates an example of BSR reporting in some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1C, the periodic BSR timer is started or restarted when a complete or non-truncated BSR (BSR A or BSR B) is transmitted in the first CG (Grant 1 shown in FIG. 1D). Therefore, when BSR B is included in the MAC CE at the end of this data burst, the periodic BSR timer is restarted. Therefore, even when the next CG (Grant 2 shown in FIG. 1D) arrives, the periodic BSR timer is still running, so the terminal device cannot transmit a periodic BSR when the second ON-DURATION occurs. In this case, if video data is periodically buffered in the terminal device while the timer is running, the terminal device cannot transmit a BSR to the network device in a timely manner.

[0043] FIG. 1D illustrates another example of a BSR report in some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some cases, the network device or scheduler may not be able to provide grants precisely at the beginning of every ON-DURATION (e.g., due to temporary overload), causing the periodic BSR timer to start late. In some cases, the periodic BSR timer starts late enough that the BSR misses the next ON-DURATION. As shown in FIG. 1E, Grant 2 is configured late, and the periodic BSR timer is still running when the subsequent Grant 3 is configured. As a result, the terminal device cannot transmit a BSR during the third DRX ON-DURATION.

[0044] To achieve performance trade-offs between data transmissions of multiple traffic types, LCP restrictions are used to prioritize UL grants with specific characteristics for specific LCHs. However, MAC CEs have no such restrictions, so if there is enough space, MAC CEs can be multiplexed into any UL grant according to their MAC CE priority. However, this may disrupt the intended periodicity for BSRs if the MAC CE for BSR is included in another UL grant. Specifically, the LCP procedure and MAC CE order are shown below. [Table 3-1] [Table 3-2]

[0045] In this disclosure, a mapping restriction or LCP restriction for MAC CE, particularly BSR-specific MAC CE, is proposed, and embodiments are further described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0046] 2 shows an example signaling process 200 for applying LCP restrictions to MAC CEs for BSR in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. For illustrative purposes, process 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. Process 200 may include terminal devices 110, 120 and network device 130, as shown in FIG. 1. While process 200 has been described in the context of communication environment 100 of FIG. 1, it should be understood that process 200 may be applied to other communication scenarios as well. For illustrative purposes, the following embodiments will be discussed with reference to terminal device 120 and network device 110, without limitation.

[0047] In signaling 200, the terminal device 120 (or terminal device 130) receives from the network device 110 a mapping restriction configuration for performing an LCP procedure associated with a CG (201). The mapping restriction is configured for a MAC CE. Next, based on the mapping restriction, the terminal device 110 performs the LCP procedure and generates a MAC PDU for the CG (203). In some embodiments, the terminal device 110 may determine whether the MAC CE is triggered (203-1). If the MAC CE is triggered, the terminal device may generate a MAC PDU that configures the triggered MAC CE (203-5). Subsequently, the terminal device 110 can perform the LCP procedure based on the mapping restriction configured for the MAC CE. Alternatively, if the MAC CE is not triggered, the terminal device 110 can perform the LCP procedure only for logical channels or MAC PDUs that do not include a MAC CE. In this regard, the scope of protection for the LCP procedure is not limited.

[0048] In some embodiments, a MAC CE designated for a BSR may be triggered when traffic data arrives or is buffered. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a MAC CE designated for a BSR may not be triggered when traffic data has not arrived. Furthermore, a MAC CE may be any MAC CE that is triggered on demand. In some embodiments, a MAC CE may include at least one of a MAC CE designated for a BSR, a MAC CE designated for beam failure restart (BFR), a MAC CE designated for timing advance reporting, a MAC CE designated for recommended bit rate query, etc. For clarity of explanation only and without limitation, some embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to a MAC CE designated for a BSR. It should be understood that this embodiment may also be applied to any other MAC CE, and the scope of protection regarding this aspect is not limited.

[0049] In this way, even if the alignment between the DRX period (or CG period) and the traffic data period is affected for some reason based on the mapping restriction configuration, the MAC CE can be mapped or multiplexed to the CG associated with the mapping restriction. In some embodiments, the MAC CE may include a MAC CE designated for the BSR. Thus, as described above, based on a determination that there is buffered data that has arrived or is available for transmission, the terminal device 110 can perform an LCP procedure for the CG by, for example, multiplexing the MAC CE designated for the BSR into the CG. In some embodiments, for each CG opportunity configured in the mapping restriction configuration, the terminal device 110 can trigger the MAC CE designated for the BSR. For example, the BSR can be triggered for each CG opportunity configured for the BSR when there is data available for transmission in the buffer.

[0050] Meanwhile, the network equipment 110 can configure the CG period to match the traffic period of the terminal equipment 120. For example, the network equipment 110 can configure the CG period to match the data traffic burst period. The network equipment 110 can acquire the data traffic period or burst arrival time from a core network (CN), such as a 5G CN, via Next Generation Application Protocol (NGAP) signaling. Alternatively, the network equipment 110 can acquire the data traffic period or burst arrival time from UE assistance information. In this manner, the network equipment 110 can appropriately configure the CG period and time offset to match the traffic. Furthermore, a new parameter or value can be introduced to indicate the CG period, which then allows the periodic BSR timer to have better alignment with the traffic period. In this manner, the periodic BSR period is also aligned with the CG period. In this disclosure, alignment refers not only to equal periods but also to synchronized phases or offsets.

[0051] The terminal device 110 then transmits a MAC CE to the network device 120 via the CG (207). In this way, it is guaranteed that the MAC CE for the BSR can be transmitted in the CG associated with the mapping limit configuration regardless of the state of the periodic BSR timer. As a result, as described above, the period of the CG associated with the mapping limit configuration can be configured by the network device 110 based on traffic characteristics so that the terminal device 120 transmits a MAC CE for the BSR every time periodic data arrives.

[0052] In some embodiments, the MAC CE may include a MAC CE designated for the BSR. Furthermore, the BSR may be a periodic BSR as described above, and the mapping restriction configuration may include an indication of whether a CG is used for the periodic BSR. Thus, if the indication indicates that a CG is used for the periodic BSR, the terminal device 120 may avoid using the CG for at least one of the logical channels or other MAC CEs to perform the LCP procedure. Alternatively, a CG may be configured for at least one of the MAC CE and traffic (e.g., pause / control traffic), and the terminal device 110 may preempt the CG in this embodiment to transmit the MAC CE. Meanwhile, on the network device 120 side, if the network device 120 only receives a MAC CE with this CG, the network device 120 can recognize that data for the traffic with this CG is blocked from being transmitted. For example, the network device 120 can recognize that the BSR prioritizes resources that belong to specific pause / control traffic. Then, the network device 120 can transmit an indication of the uplink resources configured for the traffic via a dynamic grant. Alternatively, the network device 120 may not configure any more uplink resources for the traffic.

[0053] In some embodiments, the terminal device 110 may also maintain multiple periodic BSR timers, each of which is used for a respective logical channel. For example, the terminal device 110 may maintain a periodic BSR timer for each logical channel, with the period of the periodic BSR timer aligned with the period of the traffic on each logical channel. Correspondingly, the network device may configure multiple CG configurations, each with a period that matches a specific data traffic. In this way, when multiple data traffics with different periods exist, the network device may obtain a BSR for each data traffic.

[0054] In some embodiments, the periodic BSR timer is restarted only when the terminal device 110 transmits a MAC CE with a CG associated with the mapping restriction configuration. In this case, the CG configured with the mapping restriction configuration allows the terminal device to transmit the MAC CE for the BSR in a timely and accurate manner. For example, when the terminal device transmits a MAC CE in step 205, the terminal device 110 can restart (209) the periodic BSR timer. Furthermore, if the terminal device 120 transmits a MAC CE with a CG other than the CG associated with the mapping restriction configuration (e.g., a CG without a mapping restriction configuration), the terminal device 120 can avoid restarting the periodic BSR timer. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can receive (211) another grant from the network device 110. For example, the other grant may include another CG or another dynamic grant. In some other embodiments, this grant may be any other grant for uplink resources. Furthermore, there is available resource space to incorporate a regular BSR or a padding BSR. The terminal device 110 can then send 213 another MAC CE specific to the BSR via this grant. This time, the grant is not configured with a mapping restriction setting, so the terminal device 110 can avoid restarting the periodic BSR timer 215. For illustrative purposes only, restarting the periodic BSR timer is further described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0055] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of BSR reporting by applying a mapping restriction setting to a CG in some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 110 can transmit a BSR-specific MAC CE A 310 via a CG associated with the mapping restriction setting. Correspondingly, the periodic BSR timer is restarted. Next, the terminal device 120 transmits a BSR-specific MAC CE B 320 via a grant, and the BSR of MAC CE B is not a truncated BSR. However, because the grant is not configured with a mapping restriction setting, the terminal device 110 avoids restarting the periodic BSR timer. As a result, the terminal device 110 can transmit a BSR-designated MAC CE 330 upon expiration of the periodic BSR timer restarted by 310.

[0056] Alternatively, the above embodiment can be expressed as follows. [Table 4-1] [Table 4-2] [Table 4-3] [Table 4-4] [Table 4-5]

[0057] As described above, MAC CE can be reliably transmitted in CG using the mapping restriction setting, and the CG period can be flexibly set to receive MAC CE for BSR in a timely manner.

[0058] 4 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 400 implemented in a terminal device (e.g., terminal device 110) in some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, method 400 will be described from the perspective of terminal device 110 with reference to FIG.

[0059] At 410, the terminal device 110 receives a mapping restriction configuration for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) from a network device. The mapping restriction is configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). At 420, the terminal device 110 performs the LCP procedure and generates a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restriction. At 430, the terminal device 110 transmits the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0060] In some embodiments, performing the LCP procedure includes determining whether a MAC CE is triggered, and generating a MAC PDU including the MAC CE based on the determination that the MAC CE is triggered.

[0061] In some embodiments, the MAC CE includes a MAC CE designated for buffer status reporting (BSR). In some embodiments, the BSR is a periodic BSR, and the mapping limit configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is used for the periodic BSR.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method 400 further includes that, based on a determination that the mapping restriction configuration includes an indication that the CG is to be used for periodic BSR, the terminal device 110 can avoid using the CG for at least one of the logical channels or other MAC CEs.

[0063] In some embodiments, the period of the periodic BSR coincides with the period of the CG and / or the period of the CG coincides with the period of the terminal device traffic.

[0064] In some embodiments, the method 400 further includes transmitting another BSR to the network device via a grant without via setting a mapping limit, and avoiding restarting a periodic BSR timer for transmitting the periodic BSR.

[0065] In some embodiments, receiving a mapping restriction configuration includes receiving an LCP restriction configuration that includes the mapping restriction configuration.

[0066] In some embodiments, the method 400 further includes maintaining a periodic BSR timer for each logical channel, the period of the periodic BSR timer being aligned with the period of traffic on the respective logical channel.

[0067] In some embodiments, the CG is configured for at least one of the BSR and the traffic, and the method 400 further includes receiving an indication of the uplink resources configured for the traffic via a dynamic grant.

[0068] In some embodiments, determining whether a MAC CE is triggered includes triggering a MAC CE designated for a BSR for each CG opportunity configured in the mapping restriction settings based on a determination that there is data in a buffer of the terminal device available for transmission.

[0069] 5 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 500 implemented on a network device (e.g., network device 120) in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, method 500 will be described from the perspective of network device 120 with reference to FIG.

[0070] At 510, the network device 120 transmits a mapping restriction configuration for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) to a terminal device. The mapping restriction is configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). At 520, the network device 120 receives a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0071] In some embodiments, the MAC CE includes a MAC CE designated for buffer status reporting (BSR). In some embodiments, the mapping limit configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is used for periodic BSR.

[0072] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes avoiding configuring a CG for at least one of the logical channels or other MAC CEs. In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes configuring a period of the CG to align with a period of the terminal device's traffic. In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes receiving another BSR from the terminal device via a grant without configuring a mapping restriction.

[0073] In some embodiments, transmitting the mapping restriction configuration includes transmitting an LCP restriction configuration that includes the mapping restriction configuration.

[0074] In some embodiments, the CG is configured for at least one of the BSR and the traffic, and the method 500 further includes transmitting an indication of the uplink resources configured for the traffic via the dynamic grant.

[0075] In some embodiments, an apparatus capable of performing any of the operations of method 400 (e.g., terminal device 110) 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.

[0076] In some embodiments, an apparatus may include means for receiving, from a network device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG). The mapping restrictions are configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The apparatus may further include means for performing the LCP procedure and generating a MAC PDU for the CG based on the mapping restrictions, and means for transmitting the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG.

[0077] In some embodiments, the means for performing the LCP procedure comprises means for determining whether a MAC CE is triggered, and means for generating a MAC PDU including the MAC CE based on the determination that the MAC CE is triggered.

[0078] In some embodiments, the MAC CE includes a MAC CE designated for buffer status reporting (BSR). In some embodiments, the BSR is a periodic BSR, and the mapping limit configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is used for the periodic BSR.

[0079] In some embodiments, the means for performing an LCP procedure may comprise means for avoiding using the CG for at least one of a logical channel or other MAC CE based on a determination that the mapping restriction configuration includes an indication that the CG is to be used for periodic BSR.

[0080] In some embodiments, the period of the periodic BSR coincides with the period of the CG and / or the period of the CG coincides with the period of the terminal device traffic.

[0081] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for transmitting another BSR to the network device via a grant without via setting a mapping limit, and means for avoiding restarting a periodic BSR timer to transmit the periodic BSR.

[0082] In some embodiments, the means for receiving a mapping restriction configuration may comprise means for receiving an LCP restriction configuration comprising the mapping restriction configuration.

[0083] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for maintaining a periodic BSR timer for each logical channel, the period of the periodic BSR timer coinciding with the period of traffic on the respective logical channel.

[0084] In some embodiments, the CG is configured for at least one of the BSR and the traffic, and the apparatus may further comprise means for receiving an indication of the uplink resources configured for the traffic via a dynamic grant.

[0085] In some embodiments, the means for determining whether a MAC CE is triggered may comprise means for triggering a MAC CE designated in the BSR for each CG opportunity configured in the mapping limit setting based on a determination that there is data available for transmission in a buffer of the terminal equipment.

[0086] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for performing other steps of some embodiments of method 400. In some embodiments, the means comprises at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to cause execution of the apparatus by the at least one processor.

[0087] In some embodiments, an apparatus capable of performing any of the methods 500 (e.g., network device 120) may comprise means for performing each step of the 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.

[0088] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for transmitting a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG) to a terminal device. The mapping restrictions are configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE). The apparatus may further comprise means for receiving a MAC PDU from the terminal device via the CG.

[0089] In some embodiments, the MAC CE includes a MAC CE designated for buffer status reporting (BSR). In some embodiments, the mapping limit configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is used for periodic BSR.

[0090] In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for avoiding configuring a CG for at least one of a logical channel or another MAC CE. In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for configuring a period of the CG to match a period of traffic of the terminal device. In some embodiments, the apparatus may further comprise means for receiving another BSR from the terminal device via a grant without configuring a mapping restriction.

[0091] In some embodiments, the means for transmitting the mapping restriction configuration may comprise means for transmitting an LCP restriction configuration that configures the mapping restriction configuration.

[0092] In some embodiments, the CG is configured for at least one of the BSR and traffic, and the apparatus may further comprise means for transmitting, via a dynamic grant, an indication of the uplink resources configured for the traffic.

[0093] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for performing other steps of some embodiments of method 500. In some embodiments, the means comprises at least one processor and at least one memory containing computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to cause execution of the apparatus by the at least one processor.

[0094] 6 is a simplified block diagram of a device 600 suitable for implementing an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 600 may be provided to implement a communication device such as the terminal equipment 110 shown in FIG. 1. As shown, the device 600 includes one or more processors 610, one or more memories 640 connected to the processors 610, and one or more transmitters and / or receivers (TX / RX) 640 connected to the processors 610.

[0095] The TX / RX 640 is for bidirectional communication. The TX / RX 640 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication. The communication interface may represent any interface required for communication with other network elements.

[0096] Processor 610 may be of any type suitable for a local technology network and may include, 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 that are time-slaved to a clock that synchronizes a main processor.

[0097] The 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 disks (CDs), digital video disks (DVDs), and other magnetic and / or optical storage devices. 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 periods.

[0098] 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 suitable operations and processes.

[0099] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by a program such that device 600 can execute any process 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.

[0100] In some embodiments, the program 630 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium that may be included in the device 600 (such as in memory 620) or other storage accessible by the device 600. The device 600 may load the program 630 from the computer-readable medium into RAM 622 and execute it. 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. This computer-readable medium has the program 630 stored on it.

[0101] 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 have been illustrated and described using block diagrams, flowcharts, or some other graphical representations, it should be understood that the blocks, apparatus, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller, or other computing device, or some combination thereof, in non-limiting illustrative examples.

[0102] 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 process 200, method 400, or 500 described above with reference to FIGS. 2-5. 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.

[0103] 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 apparatus, such that, when executed by the processor or controller, the functions / acts specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams are performed. The program code can run entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0104] 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 as described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer-readable media, etc.

[0105] The computer-readable medium may be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. Computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media 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 of the above. The term "non-transitory" as used herein refers to the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal), as opposed to a limitation on the permanence of the data storage (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0106] 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 to perform all of the operations shown, to achieve desirable results. In certain situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be preferred. Similarly, while several specific implementation details are included in the above description, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be unique 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.

[0107] 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.

Claims

1. A terminal device, at least one processor; When executed by the at least one processor, the terminal device: receiving, from a network device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a logical channel prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a configuration grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE); performing the LCP procedure and generating a MAC Protocol Data Unit (PDU) for the CG based on the mapping constraint; transmitting the MAC PDU to the network device via the CG; at least one memory storing instructions for executing the A terminal device comprising:

2. determining whether the MAC CE is triggered; generating the MAC PDU including the MAC CE based on determining that the MAC CE is triggered; The terminal device according to claim 1 , wherein the terminal device executes the LCP procedure by

3. The terminal device of claim 1 , wherein the MAC CE includes the MAC CE designated for a buffer status report (BSR).

4. the BSR is a periodic BSR; The mapping restriction configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is to be used for the periodic BSR. The terminal device according to claim 3.

5. The terminal device is avoiding use of the CG for at least one logical channel or other MAC CE based on determining that the mapping restriction configuration includes an indication that the CG is to be used for the periodic BSR; 5. The terminal equipment of claim 4, wherein the terminal equipment is adapted to perform the LCP procedure by

6. The period of the periodic BSR is the same as the period of the CG; The period of the CG is consistent with the period of traffic of the terminal device; The terminal device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the terminal device is at least one of the above.

7. The terminal device further Sending another BSR to the network device without using the mapping restriction setting; avoiding restarting a periodic BSR timer for transmitting the periodic BSR; 7. The terminal device according to claim 3, wherein the terminal device is configured to:

8. The terminal device is receiving an LCP restriction configuration including the mapping restriction configuration; 8. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is adapted to receive the mapping restriction setting by:

9. The terminal device further maintaining a periodic BSR timer for each logical channel, the period of the periodic BSR timer being aligned with the period of traffic on the respective logical channel; 9. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is configured to:

10. The CG is configured for at least one of a BSR and a logical channel, and the terminal device further receiving an indication of configured uplink resources for the logical channel via a dynamic grant; 10. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is configured to:

11. The terminal device is configured such that the MAC CE is triggering the MAC CE designated for BSR for each CG opportunity configured in the mapping restriction setting based on a determination that there is data in the terminal device's buffer available for transmission; The terminal device according to claim 1 , wherein the terminal device determines whether the trigger is triggered by a command.

12. A network device, at least one processor; When executed by the at least one processor, the network device: transmitting, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); receiving a MAC protocol data unit (PDU) from the terminal device via the CG; at least one memory storing instructions for executing the A network device comprising:

13. The network equipment of claim 12 , wherein the MAC CE includes the MAC CE designated for Buffer Status Reporting (BSR).

14. The network equipment of claim 13 , wherein the mapping restriction configuration includes an indication of whether the CG is used for periodic BSR.

15. The network device further comprises: avoiding setting the CG to at least one of a logical channel or other MAC CE; The network device according to claim 14, wherein

16. The network device further comprises: The period of the CG is set to match the period of traffic of the terminal device. The network device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein

17. The network device further comprises: receiving another BSR from the terminal device via a grant without using the mapping restriction setting; 17. The network device according to claim 12, wherein the network device is configured to:

18. The network device includes: transmitting an LCP restriction configuration including the mapping restriction configuration; 18. The network device according to claim 12, wherein the network device is configured to transmit the mapping restriction setting by

19. The CG is set for at least one of a BSR and traffic, and the network device further transmitting, via a dynamic grant, an indication of uplink resources configured for said traffic; 19. The network device according to claim 12, wherein the network device is configured to:

20. receiving, from a network device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); performing the LCP procedure and generating a MAC Protocol Data Unit (PDU) for the CG based on the mapping constraint; transmitting the MAC CE to the network device via the CG; A method comprising:

21. transmitting, to a terminal device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); receiving a MAC protocol data unit (PDU) from the terminal device via the CG; A method comprising:

22. means for receiving, from a network device, a configuration of mapping restrictions for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restrictions being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); means for performing the LCP procedure and generating a MAC Protocol Data Unit (PDU) for the CG based on the mapping constraints; means for transmitting the MAC CE to the network device via the CG; An apparatus comprising:

23. means for transmitting, to a terminal device, a configuration of a mapping restriction for performing a Logical Channel Prioritization (LCP) procedure associated with a Configuration Grant (CG), the mapping restriction being configured for a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE); means for receiving a MAC Protocol Data Unit (PDU) from the terminal device via the CG; An apparatus comprising:

24. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon program instructions for performing at least the method of claim 20 or 21.

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