Terminal devices and communication devices

Abstract

Embodiments of this disclosure relate to a communication apparatus and method. Based on UL transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, at least one SRS resource set is determined from the plurality of SRS resource sets, the information including that the UL transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode. The UCI is transmitted over the UL transmission in relation to at least one SRS resource set. In this way, the UCI can be transmitted over the UL transmission with the most reliable resource or multiplexed, thereby improving the probability of a successful UCI transmission.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of telecommunication, and particularly to methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for communication for uplink (UL) transmission.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, it has been proposed to support simultaneous transmission across multi-panel (STxMP). Furthermore, it has been proposed to support physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) transmission with a user equipment (UE) having eight transmit (Tx) antennas and two codewords. However, solutions for UL transmission for STxMP and 8Tx UE are still incomplete and need further development.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide methods, apparatuses, and computer storage media for communication for uplink transmission.

[0004] In a first aspect, a terminal device is provided. The terminal device includes a processor configured to perform the following. Based on uplink transmission information related to a plurality of sounding reference signal (SRS) resource sets, determine at least one SRS resource set from the plurality of SRS resource sets, where the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and transmit uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission related to the at least one SRS resource set to a network device.

[0005] In a second embodiment, a terminal device is provided, the terminal device including a processor configured to: receive from a network device a configuration indicating an index of the modulation and coding scheme of an uplink transmission codeword; determine a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and transmit a UCI or phase tracking reference signal (PTRS) to the network device over the first codeword.

[0006] In a third aspect, a network device is provided, the network device including a processor configured to: determine at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and receives a UCI on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set from a terminal device.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a network device is provided, the network device including a processor configured to: transmit a configuration indicating the MCS index of an uplink transmission codeword to a terminal device; determine a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and receive a UCI or PTRS from the terminal device based on the first codeword.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided, the method comprising: a terminal device determining at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and transmitting a UCI on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set to a network device.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, a communication method is provided, which includes a terminal device receiving from a network device a configuration indicating the MCS index of an uplink transmission codeword; determining a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and transmitting a UCI or PTRS to the network device over the first codeword.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, a communication method is provided, the method comprising a network device determining at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and receiving a UCI on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set from a terminal device.

[0011] In the eighth aspect, a communication method is provided, which includes a network device transmitting a configuration indicating the MCS index of an uplink transmission codeword to a terminal device, determining a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values, and receiving a UCI or PTRS from the terminal device on the first codeword.

[0012] In the ninth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided on which instructions are stored. When these instructions are executed on at least one processor, they cause at least one processor to perform a method according to any of the fifth through eighth aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] It should be understood that the summary portion of the invention is not intended to identify any important or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will be readily apparent through the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] The above and other purposes, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent through a more detailed description of some embodiments of this disclosure in the attached drawings.

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[0033] Throughout the drawing, identical or similar reference numbers represent identical or similar elements. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to several embodiments. These embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and should be understood as being helpful to those skilled in the art in understanding and implementing this disclosure, without implying any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The disclosures described herein can be implemented in a variety of ways other than those described below.

[0035] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0036] As used herein, the term “terminal device” refers to any device equipped with wireless or wired communication capabilities. Examples of terminal devices include user equipment (UE), personal computers, desktops, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, tablets, wearable devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, Ultra-Reliable and Low Latency Communications (URLLC) devices, Internet of Everything (IoE) devices, Machine Type Communication (MTC) devices, Vehicle-mounted devices for V2X communication (X stands for pedestrian, vehicle, or infrastructure / network), Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) devices, Small Data Transmission (SDT), mobility, Multicast and Broadcast Services (MBS), positioning, dynamic / flexible duplication in commercial networks, Reduced Capability (RedCap), and High Altitude Platforms (HAP) including satellites and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Spacecraft or aircraft within non-terrestrial networks (NTN), including Platforms; Extended Reality (XR) devices, which include various types of reality such as Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Virtual Reality (VR); Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), which are aircraft without human pilot intervention, commonly known as drones; High-Speed ​​Trains (HSTs)Examples of "terminal devices" include, but are not limited to, devices on board a Speed ​​Train, digital cameras, sensors, game consoles, image capture devices such as music storage and playback devices, or internet devices that enable wireless or wired internet access or browsing. "Terminal devices" may also have "multicast / broadcast" capabilities and support public safety and mission-critical, V2X applications, transparent IPv4 / IPv6 multicast distribution, IPTV, smart TV, radio services, wireless software distribution, group communications, and IoT applications. They may also incorporate one or more Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs), known as multi-SIMs. The term "terminal device" can be used interchangeably with UE, mobile station, subscriber station, mobile terminal, user terminal, or wireless device.

[0037] The term "network device" refers to a device that can provide or host a cell or coverage from which terminal devices can communicate. Examples of network devices include, but are not limited to, Node B (NodeB or NB), evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), transmission / reception point (TRP), remote radio unit (RRU), radio head (RH), remote radio head (RRH), IAB node, low-power nodes such as femtonodes, piconodes, reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS), and network control repeaters.

[0038] Terminal devices or network devices may be equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning capabilities. These typically include models trained on large amounts of collected data for specific functions, which can then be used to predict certain information.

[0039] Terminal or network devices can operate in multiple frequency ranges, including FR1 (410 MHz to 7125 MHz), FR2 (24.25 GHz to 71 GHz), frequency bands above 100 GHz, and terahertz (THz). Furthermore, they can operate in licensed / unlicensed / shared spectrum. In multi-radio dual connectivity (MR-DC) application scenarios, terminal devices may have multiple connections to network devices. Terminal or network devices can operate in full-duplex, flexible-duplex, and cross-split-duplex modes.

[0040] Network devices may have features such as network energy saving, self-organizing networking (SON), and minimization of drive testing (MDT). Terminals may also have power saving features.

[0041] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented using test equipment such as signal generators, signal analyzers, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, test terminal devices, test network devices, and channel emulators.

[0042] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in accordance with any generation of communication protocols currently known or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G) communication protocols, 5.5G, 5G-Advanced Networks, or sixth-generation (6G) networks.

[0043] In one embodiment, a terminal device can be connected to a first network device and a second network device. One of the first and second network devices may be a master node and the other a secondary node. The first and second network devices may use different radio access technologies (RATs). In one embodiment, the first network device may be a first RAT device, and the second network device may be a second RAT device. In one embodiment, the first RAT device may be an eNB, and the second RAT device may be a gNB. Information related to different RATs can be transmitted to the terminal device from at least one of the first or second network devices. In one embodiment, the first information can be transmitted from the first network device to the terminal device, and the second information can be transmitted directly from the second network device to the terminal device or via the first network device. In one embodiment, information regarding the configuration of the terminal device configured by the second network device can be transmitted from the second network device via the first network device. Information regarding the reconfiguration of terminal devices set by the second network device can be transmitted directly from the second network device to the terminal device, or transmitted via the first network device.

[0044] Where used herein, the singular forms “a / an” and “the” are intended to include the plural unless otherwise clearly indicated in the context. The term “including” and its variations are to be interpreted as an open term meaning “including, but not limited to.” The term “based on” should be interpreted as “based at least partially on.” The terms “one embodiment” and “a certain embodiment” are to be interpreted as “at least one embodiment.” The term “another embodiment” is to be interpreted as “at least one other embodiment.” Terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., may refer to different or the same subject. The following may include other explicit and implicit definitions.

[0045] In some examples, values, procedures, or devices are referred to as “best,” “worst,” “highest,” “minimum,” “maximum,” etc. Such descriptions are intended to show that a choice can be made from among many functional options, and it will be understood that such a choice does not need to be better, smaller, higher, or more desirable than the other options.

[0046] In this disclosure, some terms may refer to the same or similar natural meanings and may be used interchangeably. Some typical examples are given below. The terms “port for uplink transmission,” “port for push transmission,” “port with non-zero push transmission power,” and “port with non-zero uplink transmission power” are interchangeable. The terms “uplink transmit panel,” “push transmit panel,” “panel with non-zero push transmit power,” and “panel with non-zero uplink transmit power” are interchangeable. The terms “Transmitting Capability Information,” “UE Capability Information,” “Capability-Related Information,” “Capability Value Setting,” “Panel Information,” and “Panel-Related Information” may be used interchangeably. The terms "precoder," "precoding," "precoding matrix," "beam," "spatial relationship information," "precoding information and number of layers," "precoding matrix indicator (PMI)," "precoding matrix indicator," "transmission precoding matrix indication," "precoding matrix indication," "transmission configuration indicator (TCI) status," "transmission configuration indicator," "quasi co-location (QCL)," "quasi co-location," "QCL parameters," "QCL assumptions," "QCL relationship," and "spatial relationship" can be used interchangeably. The terms "Single TRP," "Single TCI Status," "Single TCI," "S-TCI," "Single Control Resource Set (CORESET)," "Single CORESET Pool," "S-TRP," and "S-TCI Status" are interchangeable. The terms "multiple TRPs," "multiple TCI states," "multiple CORESETs," "multiple control resource set pools," "multi-TRP," "multi-TCI states," "multi-TCI," "multi-CORESET," "multi-control resource set pools," "MTRP (multi-control resource set pool)," "M-TCI," and "M-TPR" are interchangeable. The terms "resource," "resource in a resource set," and "resource set" are interchangeable. The terms “group,” “subset,” and “set” can be used interchangeably. Furthermore, as discussed herein, a panel refers to one or more antenna elements located in a specific area of ​​a terminal device. As discussed herein, a panel may refer to a downlink panel, an uplink panel, a panel type, a panel configuration, a capability value set, a reference signal (RS) resource, an RS resource set, an antenna port, an antenna port group, a beam, or a beam group. In this regard, the terms “panel,” “panel type,” “set of antenna ports,” “antenna element,” and “antenna array” (and equivalent expressions thereto) can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, “panel” or “UE panel” may be replaced with or represent “RS source,” “RS resource set,” or “RS port.” For example, one panel or one UE panel may correspond to one RS resource or one RS resource set, multiple panels may correspond to multiple RS resources or multiple RS resource sets, and each panel may correspond to each RS resource or RS resource set. Furthermore, the panel information discussed herein may refer to UE panel metrics / identifiers (IDs), downlink panel IDs, uplink panel IDs, panel type indications, panel status indications, capability value set metrics, RS resource IDs, RS resource set IDs, antenna port IDs, antenna port group IDs, beam IDs, and beam group IDs. The term "per panel" can be used interchangeably with "per capability value metric," "per capability value set metric," "per RF (Radio Frequency) chain," "per TxRF chain," "per branch," "per Tx branch," etc. In some embodiments, “RS” as discussed in this disclosure may be replaced with or represented by at least one of the following: “SRS,” “DMRS: DeModulation Reference Signal,” “PTRS,” “CSI-RS,” etc. As used herein, the term “TRP” refers to an antenna array (having one or more antenna elements) available to a network device located at a specific geographical location. Some embodiments of this disclosure are described, for example, with reference to scenarios of multiple TRPs (or a scenario of a single TRP), but these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, and are useful for those skilled in the art to understand and implement this disclosure. It should be understood that the disclosures described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below. In some embodiments, a TRP is related to one or more RS resources or sets of RS resources. In some embodiments, “TRP” as discussed herein may be replaced or represented by “RS resource” or “set of RS resources”. As used herein, the term “sounding reference signal (SRS) transmission” refers to the transmission of an SRS resource identified by the SRS resource indicator (SRI) in a DCI (downlink control information) message for an uplink grant. Therefore, the term “recent SRS transmission” refers to the transmission of the most recent SRS resource identified by the SRI in a DCI message for an uplink grant. As used herein, the term "network / network device" refers to one or more network devices. Therefore, the terms "network," "network device," and "one or more network devices" are interchangeable. A "lower-capacity panel" can be interchangeable with a "higher-capacity panel," a panel corresponding to a lower / higher capability value set metric, the most recently used panel, the older panel used for the initial access / minimum PRACH (Physical Random Access Channel), the panel used for the initial access / minimum PRACH, etc. In other words, it is either a predefined rule known on both the network (NW) and UE sides, or a signal sent between the NW and UE through configuration / capacity reporting / requests. The "Bandwidth Part (BWP) ID / Indicator" can be interchanged with the "BWP / Component Carrier (CC) ID / Indicator," "CC Identity / Indicator," "Cell Identity / Indicator," "Physical Cell Identity / Indicator," and "Serving Cell Identity / Indicator." In the context of this disclosure, the term "above..." may mean "equal to or greater than..." or "equal to or higher than...". The term "below..." may mean "equal to or less than..." or "equal to or lower than...".

[0047] As described above, solutions for UL transmission for STxMP or 8TxUE are still incomplete. Embodiments of this disclosure provide communication solutions for UL transmission.

[0048] In one solution, the terminal device determines at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on information from one or more UL transmissions associated with that plurality of SRS resource sets. The terminal device then transmits UCIs on one or more UL transmissions associated with at least one SRS resource set to the network device. In this way, the UCIs can be transmitted on the UL transmission using the most reliable resource or multiplexed, thereby improving the probability of successful UCI transmissions.

[0049] In an alternative solution, the terminal device receives a configuration from the network device indicating the channel quality parameters (e.g., MCS index) of the codeword for UL transmission. Based on the channel quality parameters, the terminal device determines a codeword from codeword to codeword (for convenience, referred to herein as the first codeword). Based on the first codeword, the terminal device transmits a UCI or PTRS to the network device. In this way, the UCI can be multiplexed to a codeword with better channel quality, thereby increasing the probability of successful UCI transmission. The PTRS can be transmitted in relation to a codeword with better channel quality, thereby improving the performance of the PTRS for phase estimation.

[0050] The principles and embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. <Example of communication environment>

[0051] Figure 1A shows an exemplary communication network 100A that can implement embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication network 100A includes network device 110-1 and an optional network device 110-2 (collectively or individually referred to as network device 110). Network device 110 can provide services to terminal device 120. For the sake of clarity, network device 110-1 is referred to as the first network device 110-1, and network device 110-2 is referred to as the first network device 110-2. Furthermore, the first network device 110-1 and the second network device 110-2 can communicate with each other.

[0052] In the communication network 100A, the link from network device 110 (for example, the first network device 110-1 or the second network device 110-2) to terminal device 120 is called a downlink, and the link from terminal device 120 to network device 110 (for example, the first network device 110-1 or the second network device 110-2) is called an uplink. In a downlink, the first network device 110-1 or the second network device 110-2 is a Tx device (or transmitter), and terminal device 120 is a receiving (Rx) device (or receiver). In an uplink, terminal device 120 is a Tx device (or transmitter), and the first network device 110-1 or the second network device 110-2 is an Rx device (or receiver).

[0053] In some embodiments, the network device 110 and the terminal device 120 can communicate via a direct link / channel.

[0054] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can be deployed in one or more panels. As shown in Figure 1A, the terminal device 120 is deployed with panels 125-1 and 125-2. Hereinafter, panels 125-1 and 125-2 may be referred to as the first panel 125-1 and the second panel 125-2, respectively.

[0055] In some embodiments, the first panel 125-1 and the second panel 125-2 correspond to different sets of antenna ports / antenna elements / antenna arrays. As a specific example, the first panel 125-1 corresponds to a first set of antenna ports, and the second panel 125-2 corresponds to a second set of antenna ports. In some embodiments, panels 125-1 and 125-2 each correspond to different sets of capability values. In some embodiments, panels 125-1 and 125-2 each correspond to different sets of SRS resources.

[0056] In communication network 100A, PUSCH STxMP may be supported. In particular, terminal device 120 may perform PUSCH simultaneously via both panels 125-1 and 125-2.

[0057] In some embodiments, MTRP transmission may be supported. As shown in Figure 1A, terminal device 120 can communicate with two TRPs, namely TRP130-1 and 130-2 (collectively or individually referred to as TRP130). For the sake of clarity in the discussion, TRP130-1 will be referred to as the first TRP130-1, and TRP130-2 will be referred to as the second TRP130-2.

[0058] Furthermore, to support MTRP and / or multiple panels, the network device 110 may have one or more TRPs. For example, the network device 110 can be coupled with multiple TRPs in different geographical locations to achieve better coverage. In one specific exemplary embodiment, the first network device 110-1 comprises a first TRP 130-1 and a second TRP 130-2. Alternatively, in another specific exemplary embodiment, the first network device 110-1 and the second network device 110-2 each comprise a first TRP 130-1 and a second TRP 130-2, respectively.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first TRP130-1 and the second TRP130-2 are associated with different control resource set pools (CORESET pools). For example, the first TRP130-1 is associated with the first control resource set pool, and the second TRP130-2 is associated with the second control resource set pool.

[0060] Furthermore, single TRP mode transmission and MTRP transmission may be supported by the specific example shown in Figure 1A. In particular, in single TRP mode, terminal device 120 communicates with the network via the first TRP 130-1 / second TRP 130-2. Alternatively, in MTRP mode, terminal device 120 communicates with the network via the first TRP 130-1 and second TRP 130-2.

[0061] In one specific exemplary embodiment, during PUSCH STxMP, terminal device 120 communicates with the first TRP 130-1 via panel 125-1 and simultaneously with the second TRP 130-2 via panel 125-2.

[0062] Furthermore, the network device 110 provides one or more serving cells, and the first TRP130-1 and the second TRP130-2 may be included in the same serving cell or in different serving cells. In other words, both inter-cell and intra-cell transmissions may be supported by the specific example in Figure 1A.

[0063] Figure 1B shows an exemplary scenario of the communication network 100A shown in Figure 1A. In the specific example in Figure 1B, the first TRP 130-1 and the second TRP 130-2 are contained within the same serving cell 140. In this case, MTRP transmissions operate as intra-cell transmissions.

[0064] Figure 1C shows an exemplary scenario of the communication network 100A shown in Figure 1A. In the specific example in Figure 1C, the first TRP 130-1 and the second TRP 130-2 are contained within different serving cells 140-1 and 140-2. In this case, MTRP transmissions operate as inter-cell transmissions.

[0065] Communications in communication network 100A may conform to any appropriate communication standard, including but not limited to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Evolution, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). Furthermore, communications may be performed according to any generation of communication protocol currently known or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth generation (5G), 5.5G, 5G-Advanced Network, or sixth generation (6G) communication protocols.

[0066] The number of elements shown in Figures 1A to 1C (i.e., terminal devices 120, panel 125, network devices 110, TRP 130, and cell 140), as well as their connections and types, should be understood to be illustrative only and without implying any limitation. The communication network 100A may include any appropriate number of devices adapted to carry out embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0067] In some scenarios, network device 110 may transmit a single DCI scheduling a UL transmission via panels 125-1 and 125-2 in time division multiplexing (TDM). In some embodiments, terminal device 120 may perform a UL transmission via panel 125-1. In some embodiments, terminal device 120 may perform a UL transmission via panel 125-2. In some embodiments, terminal device 120 may perform a UL transmission via panel 125-1 earlier and via panel 125-2 later. In some embodiments, terminal device 120 may perform a UL transmission via panel 125-2 earlier and via panel 125-1 later. This procedure is a single DCI-based UL transmission in a TDM repeating scheme.

[0068] In some scenarios, network device 110 may simultaneously transmit a single DCI scheduling a UL transmission via panels 125-1 and 125-2 (i.e., the UL transmission is associated with multiple SRS resource sets). This procedure is a single DCI-based STxMP. In some embodiments, different layers or DMRS ports of a single UL transmission may be individually precoded and transmitted simultaneously from different panels. This transmission method (or transmission mode or mode) may be referred herein to as a spatial division multiplexing (SDM) STxMP method. In some embodiments, all the same layers or DMRS ports of a single PUSCH are transmitted simultaneously from different panels. This transmission method (or transmission mode or mode) may be referred herein to as a single frequency network (SFN) STxMP method. It should be understood that any suitable operating mode currently existing or to be developed in the future is feasible for a single DCI-based STxMP. For example, an FDM method is also feasible. The FDM scheme can include FDM-A, where different parts of the frequency domain resource of a single PUSCH transmit opportunity are transmitted from different UE panels, and FDM-B, where two PUSCH transmit opportunities of the same transport block (TB) are transmitted from different UE panels on non-overlapping frequency domain and co-temporal domain resources, with the same or different redundant versions (RVs). In another example, the SDM iterative scheme is also feasible. In the SDM iterative scheme, two PUSCH transmit opportunities with different RVs of the same TB are transmitted simultaneously from two different UE panels.

[0069] In some scenarios, network device 110 may transmit multiple DCIs (e.g., two DCIs) to schedule UL transmissions via panel 125-1 and panel 125-2, each running simultaneously. This procedure is a multiple DCI-based STxMP. For multiple DCI-based STxMPs, UL transmissions are associated with different TRPs and transmitted from different panels. It should be understood that there are several appropriate operating modes currently existing or to be developed in the future that are feasible for multiple DCI-based STxMPs.

[0070] In the context of this disclosure, the term “single DCI” may refer to only one value of coresetPoolIndex in ControlResourceSet. The term “multiple DCIs” may refer to a UE configured by a higher-layer parameter PDCCH-Config that encompasses two different values ​​of coresetPoolIndex in ControlResourceSet for the active BWP of a serving cell.

[0071] In some scenarios, terminal device 120 may transmit aperiodic (AP) or semi-persistent (SP) channel state information (CSI) reports to network device 110. In some embodiments, the CSI or CSI report in this disclosure may include at least one of the following: channel quality indicator (CQI), precoding matrix indicator (PMI), CSI-RS resource indicator (CRI), synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel (SSBRI) block resource indicator (SSBRI), layer indicator (LI), rank indicator (RI), layer 1-reference signal receiving power (L1-RSRP), layer 1-signal to interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR), or capability indicator.

[0072] In conventional systems, the radio resource control (RRC) information element (IE) "CSI-MultiplexingMode" is used to indicate whether it is possible to transmit an AP / SP CSI report on a PUSCH iteration corresponding to two SRS resource sets. That is, if the action is possible, the terminal device may transmit the AP / SP CSI report to two TRPs. If the action is not possible, the terminal device may transmit the AP / SP CSI report to only one TRP. This applies to a single DCI-based UL transmission in a TDM iteration scheme when the SRS resource set index in the DCI initiating the CSI report indicates code point "10" or "11". In practice, the RRC IE "CSI Multiplexing Mode" indicates whether the terminal device transmits the AP / SP CSI report to one or two TRPs by indicating whether it transmits the CSI to one or two transmission opportunities, or multiplexes it.

[0073] However, if STxMP is feasible, each transmission opportunity or actual repetition involves multiple SRS resource sets. Thus, the conventional methods described above are not suitable for STxMP. In other words, it remains unclear how to transmit or multiplex CSI for STxMP.

[0074] Furthermore, when transmitting via 8TxUE at ranks greater than 4 on PUSCH, to support UCI multiplexing, UCI is always multiplexed only on the initial codeword or the codeword with the highest MCS index. On the other hand, for full coherent transmission with one port PTRS, ranks 5-8, it has been proposed to study whether the relationship between PTRS and DMRS is selected based on the codeword with the higher MCS index in the case of two codewords.

[0075] However, if the best MCS index depends on a different MCS table to which the best MCS index is applied and falls within a specific range (e.g., 27, 28, 29, 30, or 31), the corresponding MCS may be used for retransmission and may not reflect the channel quality of the corresponding codeword. Similarly, the initial codeword may be a codeword for retransmission and may not reflect channel quality. In some embodiments, the best MCS index is smaller than the best MCS index in the MCS table. In some embodiments, the MCS table is predefined, for example, for PUSCH or UL transmissions.

[0076] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication solution for UL transmission to overcome the above or other potential problems. The solution is described below with reference to Figures 2 to 5. Figures 2 and 5 show schematic diagrams illustrating the communication process according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of clarity of discussion, the process is described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C.

[0077] Each process includes a terminal device 120, a network device 110 (either or both of the first network device 110-1 and the second network device 110-2), and may optionally involve TRP 130 (including the first TRP 130-1 and the second TRP 130-2). In other words, the implementation of some embodiments does not depend on TRP 130. The terminal device 120 may be deployed in a first panel 125-1 and a second panel 125-2. Furthermore, the first panel 125-1 corresponds to a first set of antenna ports, and the second panel 125-2 corresponds to a second set of antenna ports.

[0078] Furthermore, the first TRP130-1 is connected to the first network device 110-1, and the second TRP130-2 is connected to the first network device 110-1 / second network device 110-2. In addition, the first TRP130-1 and the second TRP130-2 can be located in the same serving cell or in different serving cells.

[0079] In the following text, some embodiments of the Disclosure are described with reference to two TRPs and two panels, but these embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not impose limitations on the scope of the Disclosure, and are useful for those skilled in the art to understand and implement the Disclosure. It should be understood that the Disclosure described herein can be implemented in a variety of ways other than those described below.

[0080] Furthermore, it should be understood that the operation of the terminal device 120 and the network device 110 needs to be coordinated. In other words, a common understanding of the configuration, parameters, etc., is necessary for the network device 110 and the terminal device 120. Such a common understanding may be achieved through appropriate interaction between the network device 110 and the terminal device 120, or the same rules / policies may apply to both the network device 110 and the terminal device 120. In the following, some operations are described from the perspective of the terminal device 120, but the corresponding operations are performed by the network device 110. Similarly, some operations are described from the perspective of the network device 110, but the corresponding operations are performed by the terminal device 120. For the sake of simplification, some of the same or similar content may be omitted in this specification.

[0081] Furthermore, in the following description, several interactions (exchange of capability-related information, configuration / scheduling / activation resources / transmission, etc.) are performed between the terminal device 120 and the network device 110. It should be understood that these interactions, including system information, RRC messages, DCI, UCI, medium access control (MAC) control elements (CE), etc., can be performed using either single-signal / message or multiple-signal / message. This disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0082] In some embodiments, one or more interactions may be specified for a particular panel, TRP, capability value, CORESET, etc. Thus, PUSCH STxMP can be flexibly configured or activated.

[0083] Furthermore, while functions / operations are described separately in certain exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that these functions / operations described in different exemplary embodiments may be used in any appropriate combination unless explicitly stated otherwise. <Implementation example of UCI transmission for STxMP>

[0084] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a solution for UCI transmission for STxMP to transmit or multiplex UCI over UL transmission for STxMP. The solution is described in relation to Figures 2 through 4F below.

[0085] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a communication process 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For clarity of discussion, the process 200 will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C. For example, terminal device 120 is deployed in multiple panels (e.g., panels 125-1 and 125-2). Multiple panels are associated with multiple SRS resource sets.

[0086] Referring to Figure 2, the network device 110 transmits a configuration for UCI transmissions to the terminal device 120. In some embodiments, the configuration may include information for one or more UL transmissions related to multiple SRS resource sets.

[0087] In some embodiments, information about one or more UL transmissions may include being the DCI mode of one or more UL transmissions. For example, in a single DCI mode, one UL transmission related to multiple SRS resource sets is scheduled by a single DCI. In multiple DCI modes, multiple UL transmissions related to multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by multiple DCIs.

[0088] In some embodiments, information for one or more UL transmissions may include a transmission method for one or more UL transmissions. For example, the transmission method may include at least one of the following: TDM repeating method, SDM method, or SFN method. It should be understood that any appropriate information for one or more UL transmissions is also possible.

[0089] In some embodiments, the configuration may include information for multiple SRS resource sets. For example, two SRS resource sets, one for a codebook (CB) and one for a non-codebook (NCB), may be configured to support STxMP. The two SRS resource sets may consist of at least one of srs-ResourceSetToAddModList or srs-ResourceSetToAddModListDCI-0-2. If the two SRS resource sets consist of both srs-ResourceSetToAddModelList and srs-ResourceSetToAddModListDCI-0-2, the SRS resource set configured with srs-ResourceSetToAddModList can be considered as two SRS resource sets. The SRS resource set for UCI transmission may be the SRS resource set with a lower resource set ID unless otherwise specified.

[0090] In some embodiments, the configuration may include information about the UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the UCI may carry at least an AP or SP CSI report. In this case, the information about the UCI transmission may include a CSI report configuration and a CSI-RS resource configuration. For example, the CSI report configuration may indicate whether the CSI report is an AP report or an SP report. The CSI-RS resource configuration may provide resources for CSI-RS measurements. The terminal device 120 can perform CSI-RS measurements based on the resources.

[0091] In some embodiments, the UCI can include hybrid automatic repeated request-acknowledgement (HARQ-ACK) information. In some embodiments, the UCI can include a scheduling request (SR). In some embodiments, the UCI can include a link recovery request (LRR). It should be understood that other suitable UCIs are also possible.

[0092] Following a reference to Figure 2, the network device 110 also transmits to the terminal device 120 a configuration indicating repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets on multiple occasions 210'. In some embodiments, the configuration indicating repetitions can include a repetition type. In some embodiments, the repetition type can be PUSCH repetition type A, where each slot contains only one repetition and the time domain for TB repetitions is the same in those slots. In some embodiments, the repetition type can be PUSCH repetition type B, where repetitions run in consecutive minislots, and one slot contains one or more TB repetitions. In PUSCH repetition type B, nominal and actual repetitions are introduced to handle cases where slot boundaries are crossed. Both nominal and actual repetitions can be considered. Unless otherwise noted, actual repetitions are used as an example in PUSCH repetition type B. It should be understood that other suitable repetition types are also feasible.

[0093] In some embodiments, the configuration indicating repetitions may include the number of repetitions. Alternatively, the number of repetitions may not be configurable. In some embodiments, if IE numberOfRepetitions does not exist in the time domain resource allocation table, the number of repetitions may always be 2, regardless of the value of IE numberOfRepetitions or the value of IE push-AggregationFactor. In some alternative embodiments, the number of repetitions may always be 1, i.e., not support push repetitions with STxMP.

[0094] Referring to Figure 2, the network device 110 transmits a DCI (e.g., AP or SP CSI report) to the terminal device 120 that activates or initiates a UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the DCI may include an SRS resource set indicator field. For example, the SRS resource set indicator field may indicate code point "10" or "11". In other words, it may indicate a UL transmission associated with multiple SRS resource sets.

[0095] Upon receiving a DCI, the terminal device 120 determines at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on one or more UL transmission (e.g., PUSCH transmission) information associated with a plurality of SRS resource sets 230. In other words, the terminal device 120 can select at least one panel from a plurality of panels for UCI transmission.

[0096] Referring to Figure 2, the terminal device 120 determines at least one SRS resource set by default (e.g., based on the DCI mode and / or transmission method for one or more UL transmissions) 231. In some embodiments, if UL transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, the terminal device 120 can determine at least one SRS resource set for the UCI transmission based on information about the UL transmission (e.g., transmission method).

[0097] In some embodiments, when UL transmission is in the first mode, terminal device 120 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the first mode can be based on SFN (SFN STxMP scheme), where the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously on the same port associated with uplink transmission in relation to multiple SRS resource sets. It should be understood that the first mode can be based on other suitable transmission schemes.

[0098] Figure 3A shows schematic diagram 300A illustrating an exemplary UCI transmission based on a transmission scheme according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to be related to two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SFN STxMP. As shown in Figure 3A, one or more layers 311 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more layers 311 of the UL transmission are repeated in relation to SRS resource set #2. In this case, the UCI 312 may be transmitted over or multiplexed on the UL transmission related to both SRS resource sets #1 and #2.

[0099] In some embodiments, when the uplink transmission is in the second mode, the terminal device 120 can determine one of several SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the second mode can be based on SDM (i.e., the SDM method), where transmissions on the port associated with the uplink transmission are individually precoded and transmitted simultaneously in relation to several SRS resource sets. It should be understood that the second mode can be based on other suitable transmission methods.

[0100] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from the plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the highest transmit power from the plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of start layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets. For example, if the predetermined number is 1, the terminal device 120 can determine the SRS resource set having a start layer (i.e., the first layer) from the plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0101] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets. For example, for a first SRS resource set having one layer and a second SRS resource set having two layers, the terminal device 120 can determine the first SRS resource set for UCI transmission.

[0102] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of several SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the largest number of layers from among the multiple SRS resource sets. For example, for a first SRS resource set having one layer and a second SRS resource set having two layers, the terminal device 120 can determine the second SRS resource set for UCI transmission.

[0103] Figure 3B shows schematic diagram 300B illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on a transmission scheme according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to be related to two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is SDM STxMP. As shown in Figure 3B, one or more first layers 321 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and one or more second layers 322 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In this case, the UCI 323 can be transmitted based on or multiplexed on a UL transmission (i.e., only one or more first layers 321) related to a single SRS resource set (e.g., SRS resource set #1).

[0104] In some embodiments (not shown), the UCI323 can, by default, transmit or multiplex based on UL transmissions associated with SRS resource sets #1 and #2 (i.e., one or more first layers 321 and one or more second layers 322).

[0105] In some embodiments, when multiple UL transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by multiple DCIs, the terminal device 120 can determine the SRS resource set for the UCI transmission from the multiple SRS resource sets. The SRS resource sets and DCIs are associated with the same control resource set pool index.

[0106] Following reference to Figure 2, the terminal device 120 can also determine at least one SRS resource set from the network device 110 based on instructions for at least one SRS resource set (i.e., instructions for UCI transmission or multiplexing mode).232 For example, instructions can be provided via an RRC configuration.

[0107] In some embodiments of a UL transmission relating to multiple SRS resource sets scheduled by a single DCI, if an instruction for at least one SRS resource set (referred to herein for convenience as the first instruction) is received, executed, or present (e.g., represented as CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMP), the terminal device 120 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission. If the first instruction is not received, executed, or present (i.e., absent), the terminal device 120 can determine a specific SRS resource set (e.g., the SRS resource set relating to panel 125-1) among the multiple SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the first instruction may include at least one SRS resource set itself. For example, the first instruction may include multiple SRS resource sets or one of multiple SRS resource sets.

[0108] In some embodiments, the first instruction may further relate to UL transmission information. In some embodiments, the first instruction may relate to SDM STxMP (e.g., represented as CSI-MultiplexingModeSDMSTxMP). In other words, the first instruction can only be applied to SDM STxMP. In some embodiments, if a first instruction related to SDM STxMP is received, executed, or exists for a UL transmission belonging to SDM STxMP, the terminal device 120 can determine a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. If a first instruction related to SDM STxMP is not received, executed, or does not exist (i.e., is absent), the terminal device 120 can determine a predetermined SRS resource set (e.g., the SRS resource set related to panel 125-1) among the plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the first instruction related to SDM STxMP may include at least one SRS resource set itself. For example, the first instruction related to SDM STxMP may include multiple SRS resource sets or one of multiple SRS resource sets.

[0109] In some embodiments, the first instruction may relate to SFN STxMP (e.g., represented as CSI-MultiplexingModeSFNSTxMP). In other words, the first instruction can only be applied to SFN STxMP. In some embodiments, if a first instruction related to SFN STxMP is received, executed, or exists for a UL transmission belonging to SFN STxMP, the terminal device 120 can determine a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions. If a first instruction related to SFN STxMP is not received, executed, or does not exist (i.e., is absent), the terminal device 120 can determine a predetermined SRS resource set (e.g., the SRS resource set related to panel 125-1) among the plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions. In some embodiments, the first instruction related to SFN STxMP may include at least one SRS resource set itself. For example, the first instruction related to SFN STxMP may include a plurality of SRS resource sets or one of a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0110] In some embodiments of a UL transmission relating to multiple SRS resource sets scheduled by multiple DCIs, if an instruction (referred to herein for convenience as the second instruction) for at least one SRS resource set relating to scheduling by multiple DCIs is received, executed, or present (e.g., represented as CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMPPUSCH-PUSCH), the terminal device 120 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission. If the second instruction is not received, executed, or present (i.e., absent), the terminal device 120 can determine a specific SRS resource set (e.g., the SRS resource set relating to panel 125-1) among the multiple SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the second instruction may include at least one SRS resource set itself. For example, the second instruction may include multiple SRS resource sets or one of multiple SRS resource sets.

[0111] In some alternative embodiments, if an instruction (e.g., a first or second instruction) is received, executed, or exists, the terminal device 120 may determine a predetermined set of SRS resources for UCI transmission. If an instruction (e.g., a first or second instruction) is not received, executed, or does not exist (i.e., is absent), the terminal device 120 may determine multiple sets of SRS resources for UCI transmission. In other words, the parameter value "can be executed or exists" may be represented as transmitting with only one set of SRS resources (e.g., a predetermined set of SRS resources), while the parameter value "cannot be executed, does not exist, or is absent" may be represented as transmitting with multiple sets of SRS resources.

[0112] The exact names of the instructions may differ, for example, between AP and SP, and separate configurations can be provided as follows: For non-periodic CSI reports, AP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMP-r18, AP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSDMSTxMP-r18, AP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSDMSTxMP-r18, or AP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMPPUSCH-PUSCH-r18 can be provided in CSI-AssociatedReportConfigInfo. Alternatively, separate configurations can be provided as follows: For semi-persistent CSI reporting on PUSCH, the CSI-SemiPersistentOnPUSCH-TriggerStateList can provide SP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMP-r18, SP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSDMSTxMP-r18, SP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSDMSTxMP-r18, or SP-CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMPPUSCH-PUSCH-r18. Furthermore, the directive names can include CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMP-SDCI and CSI-MultiplexingModeSTxMP-MDCI.

[0113] Alternatively or additionally, terminal device 120 may report to network device 110 whether terminal device 120 supports multiplexing of AP and / or SP CSI reports for one or more SRS resource sets or PUSCHs related to one or more SRS resource sets for at least one of the following: S-DCI-based STxMP PUSCH, M-DCI-based STxMP PUSCH, S-DCI-based STxMP SFN PUSCH, or S-DCI-based STxMP SDM PUSCH.

[0114] Following a reference to Figure 2, the terminal device 120 transmits the UCI to the network device 110 on one or more UL transmissions in relation to at least one SRS resource set 240. In some embodiments, if there are no transport blocks (TBs) in one or more UL transmissions, the UCI is transmitted on one or more UL transmissions in relation to at least one SRS resource set. In some embodiments, if there are one or more TBs in one or more UL transmissions, the UCI is multiplexed on one or more UL transmissions in relation to at least one SRS resource set.

[0115] In some embodiments, if at least one SRS resource set includes only one SRS resource set, the terminal device 120 can perform at least one of rate matching or adjustment of the MCS for the UCI for each panel. In some embodiments for adjusting the MCS of the UCI, the terminal device 120 can adjust the modulation method of the UCI with respect to UL transmission. In some embodiments for adjusting the MCS of the UCI, the terminal device 120 can adjust the coding rate of the UCI with respect to UL transmission. In this way, the coverage performance of the UCI can be improved.

[0116] In some embodiments, where iterations relating to multiple SRS resource sets across multiple occasions are configured, the terminal device 120 can transmit a UCI relating to at least one SRS resource set in at least one of the multiple occasions.

[0117] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 may transmit a UCI associated with at least one SRS resource set during a startup opportunity (i.e., the first opportunity) among multiple opportunities (or actual repetitions of startup). In this case, the UCI is not transmitted or multiplexed during the remaining opportunities following the startup opportunity.

[0118] In some embodiments of SFN STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted over a UL transmission with multiple SRS resource sets only on initiation opportunities, or multiplexed. Figure 4A shows schematic diagram 400A illustrating an exemplary UCI transmission based on a transmission scheme and iteration configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SFN STxMP. It is also assumed that the number of iterations is 2, and the UCI is transmitted only on initiation opportunities. Furthermore, it is assumed that the SRS resource set index field indicates code point "11", which swaps the order of the two SRS resource sets for different transmission opportunities. It should be understood that the same method may work if the code point is "10", since the order of the two SRS resource sets is not swapped for different transmission opportunities.

[0119] As shown in Figure 4A, in opportunity #1, one or more layers 411 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more layers 411 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #2, which is later than opportunity #1, one or more layers 411 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2, and the same one or more layers 411 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1. In this case, UCI 412 can be transmitted on or multiplexed over UL transmissions related to both SRS resource sets #1 and #2 in the initiating opportunity (i.e., opportunity #1). In opportunity #2, there are no UCI transmissions.

[0120] In some embodiments of SDM STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted on a UL transmission with only one SRS resource set on the initiation opportunity, or it can be multiplexed. Figure 4B shows schematic diagram 400B illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on the transmission scheme and repetition configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SDM STxMP. It is also assumed that the number of repetitions is 2, and the UCI is transmitted only on the initiation opportunity. Furthermore, it is assumed that the SRS resource set index field indicates code point "11", which swaps the order of the two SRS resource sets for different transmission opportunities. It should be understood that the same method may work if the code point is "10", as the order of the two SRS resource sets is not swapped for different transmission opportunities.

[0121] As shown in Figure 4B, in opportunity #3, one or more first layers 421 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and one or more second layers 422 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #4, which is later than opportunity #3, one or more first layers 421 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2, and one or more second layers 422 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1. In this case, the UCI 423 can be transmitted based on only one UL transmission (i.e., one or more first layers 421) related to SRS resource set #1 in the initiating opportunity (i.e., opportunity #3), or it can be multiplexed. In opportunity #4, there is no UCI transmission.

[0122] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets on multiple occasions. In other words, the UCI can be transmitted on each occasion (or each actual iteration) or multiplexed.

[0123] In some embodiments of SFN STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted over a UL transmission with multiple SRS resource sets on multiple occasions, or multiplexed. Figure 4C shows schematic Figure 400C illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on the transmission scheme and iteration configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SFN STxMP. It is also assumed that the number of iterations is 2, and the UCI is transmitted on all occasions. Furthermore, it is assumed that the SRS resource set index field indicates code point "11", which swaps the order of the two SRS resource sets for different transmission occasions. It should be understood that the same method may work if the code point is "10", as the order of the two SRS resource sets is not swapped for different transmission occasions.

[0124] As shown in Figure 4C, in opportunity #5, one or more layers 431 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more layers 431 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #6, which is later than opportunity #5, one or more layers 431 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2, and the same one or more layers 431 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1. In this case, UCI432 can be transmitted on or multiplexed over UL transmissions related to both SRS resource sets #1 and #2 for all opportunities (i.e., opportunities #5 and #6).

[0125] In some embodiments of SDM STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted over UL transmissions on multiple occasions using a single SRS resource set or multiplexed. Figure 4D shows schematic Figure 400D illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on the transmission scheme and iteration configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SDM STxMP. It is also assumed that the number of iterations is 2, and the UCI is transmitted on all occasions. Furthermore, it is assumed that the SRS resource set index field indicates code point "11", which swaps the order of the two SRS resource sets for different transmission occasions. It should be understood that the same method may work if the code point is "10", as the order of the two SRS resource sets is not swapped for different transmission occasions.

[0126] As shown in Figure 4D, in opportunity #7, one or more first layers 441 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and one or more second layers 442 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #8, which is later than opportunity #7, one or more first layers 441 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2, and one or more second layers 442 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1. In this case, UCI 443 can transmit on all opportunities (i.e., opportunities #7 and #8) based on only one UL transmission (i.e., one or more first layers 441) related to SRS resource set #1, or it can be multiplexed.

[0127] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit UCI in relation to a first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a first occasion of multiple occasions, and in relation to a second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a second occasion of multiple occasions.

[0128] In some embodiments of SFN STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted or multiplexed over a UL transmission by a first SRS resource set on the first occasion and by a second SRS resource set on the second occasion. Figure 4E shows schematic diagram 400E illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on a transmission scheme and repetition configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SFN STxMP. The number of repetitions is assumed to be 2, and the UCI is assumed to be transmitted on all occasions.

[0129] As shown in Figure 4E, in opportunity #9, one or more layers 451 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more layers 451 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #10, which is later than opportunity #9, one or more layers 451 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more layers 451 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In this case, UCI452 can be transmitted on one or more layers 451 related to SRS resource set #1 in opportunity #9, and on one or more layers 451 related to SRS resource set #2 in opportunity #10, or multiplexed.

[0130] In some embodiments of SDM STxMP, the UCI can be transmitted or multiplexed over a UL transmission by a first SRS resource set on the first occasion and by a second SRS resource set on the second occasion. Figure 4F shows schematic diagram 400F illustrating another exemplary UCI transmission based on a transmission scheme and repetition configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The UL transmission is assumed to involve two SRS resource sets #1 and #2, and the transmission scheme is assumed to be SDM STxMP. It is also assumed that the number of repetitions is 2, and the UCI is transmitted on all occasions.

[0131] As shown in Figure 4F, in opportunity #11, one or more first layers 461 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and one or more second layers 462 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In opportunity #12, which is later than opportunity #11, one or more first layers 461 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #1, and the same one or more second layers 462 of the UL transmission are transmitted in relation to SRS resource set #2. In this case, UCI463 can be transmitted on one or more first layers 461 related to SRS resource set #1 in opportunity #11, and on one or more second layers 462 related to SRS resource set #2 in opportunity #12, or multiplexed.

[0132] In some embodiments, the network device 110 may send an instruction (referred to herein for convenience as a third instruction) to the terminal device 120 indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among several occasions. In other words, the third instruction may be provided to indicate whether and how to multiplex or transmit on an occasion (or actual repetition) following the initiation occasion.

[0133] In some embodiments, if a third instruction is received, executed, or present, the terminal device 120 may transmit a UCI associated with at least one SRS resource set to multiple occasions. In some embodiments, if a third instruction is not received, executed, or present (i.e., absent), the terminal device 120 may transmit a UCI to an initiation occasion. In some embodiments, the third instruction may specify the detailed configuration of each occasion, such as which occasion is used for UCI transmission and which SRS resource set is used for that occasion.

[0134] In some embodiments, instructions for a UCI transmission or multiplexing mode (i.e., a first or second instruction) can be used in combination with a third instruction for a UCI transmission or multiplexing opportunity. In some embodiments, if a first or second instruction is provided indicating UCI transmission or multiplexing on a UL transmission with multiple SRS resource sets, and a third instruction for UCI transmission or multiplexing is provided for each transmission opportunity (or each actual iteration), the UCI can be transmitted individually or multiplexed only for each opportunity (or actual iteration) in relation to the multiple SRS resource sets.

[0135] In some embodiments, if a first or second instruction is provided indicating UCI transmission or multiplexing on a UL transmission using only one set of SRS resources, and a third instruction is provided for UCI transmission or multiplexing on each transmission opportunity (or each actual iteration), the UCI may be transmitted individually or multiplexed on each occasion (or actual iteration) in relation to one set of SRS resources.

[0136] In some embodiments, if a first or second instruction is provided indicating UCI transmission or multiplexing on a UL transmission by multiple SRS resource sets, and a third instruction is provided for UCI transmission or multiplexing only on one occasion (or one actual repetition), the UCI may be transmitted individually or multiplexed only on occasion (or one actual repetition) in relation to the multiple SRS resource sets.

[0137] In some embodiments, if a first or second instruction is provided indicating UCI transmission or multiplexing on a UL transmission using only one set of SRS resources, and a third instruction is provided for UCI transmission or multiplexing on each transmission opportunity (or each actual iteration), the UCI may be transmitted individually or multiplexed on only one occasion (or actual iteration) in relation to one set of SRS resources.

[0138] In some embodiments, the information provided by the first, second, and / or third instructions can be implicitly determined. For example, the information provided by the first, second, and / or third instructions can be determined by defining default rules. In another embodiment, the information provided by the first, second, and / or third instructions can be determined by NW pre-configuration. In another embodiment, the information provided by the first, second, and / or third instructions can be determined by UE determination.

[0139] Alternatively or additionally, terminal device 120 may report to network device 110 whether terminal device 120 supports multiplexing of AP and / or SP CSI reports for one occasion (or actual repetition) or multiple occasions (or actual repetitions) relating to multiple SRS resource sets for at least one of the following: S-DCI-based STxMP PUSCH, M-DCI-based STxMP PUSCH, S-DCI-based STxMP SFN PUSCH, or S-DCI-based STxMP SDM PUSCH.

[0140] In some embodiments of CSI reporting, the term “sent” can be used when DCI format 0_1 ​​and DCI format 0_2 indicate code point “10” or “11” of the SRS resource set index, and aperiodic CSI reporting is scheduled for PUSCH without TB by the “CSI request” field of DCI, or semi-persistent CSI reporting is activated. The term “multiplexed” can be used when DCI format 0_1 ​​and DCI format 0_2 indicate code point “10” or “11” of the SRS resource set index, and aperiodic CSI reporting is scheduled for PUSCH with TB by the “CSI request” field of DCI.

[0141] If the DCI formats 0_1 and 0_2 of the SRS resource set indicator indicate code points "00" or "01", the SRS resource set is directly indicated. The UCI can then be transmitted on or multiplexed on the UL transmission associated with the indicated SRS resource set.

[0142] Alternatively, if the DCI formats 0_1 and 0_2 of the SRS resource set index indicate code points "00" or "01", the SRS resource set is directly indicated. The UCI can then be transmitted on or multiplexed on UL transmissions associated with a different SRS resource set than the indicated one.

[0143] Furthermore, if the DCI format does not include an SRS resource set index, for example, DCI format 0_0, the UCI can be transmitted on or multiplexed on a UL transmission related to the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource ID. Alternatively, the UCI can be transmitted on or multiplexed on a UL transmission related to two SRS resource sets having the lowest two SRS resource IDs. Alternatively, or additionally, whether the UCI is transmitted on or multiplexed on a UL transmission related to one or two SRS resource sets may depend on the configuration, for example, a clear configuration or STxMP mode.

[0144] Process 200 allows UCI to be transmitted over UL transmissions using the most reliable resources, or multiplexed, thereby improving the probability of a successful UCI transmission. It should be understood that the operations described in Process 200 can be performed in any appropriate combination. <Implementation example of UL transmission with codewords>

[0145] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a solution for UL transmission with codewords to achieve UCI or PTRS transmission based on codewords with better channel quality. It should be understood that the solution can be applied to STxMP UE or 8TxUE or other suitable scenarios supporting two or more codewords. The solution is described in reference to Figure 5 below. Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram illustrating another communication process 500 according to some embodiments of this disclosure. For clarity of discussion, process 500 is described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C.

[0146] Referring to Figure 5, the network device 110 transmits to the terminal device 120 a configuration indicating the MCS index of the codeword for UL transmission 510.

[0147] In some embodiments, a UL transmission can have a rank greater than 4. In some embodiments, a UL transmission can correspond to two or more codewords. In some embodiments, codewords can be transmitted via different TRPs.

[0148] It should be understood that MCS can be replaced by one or more modulation commands, code rates, spectral efficiency, etc. In other words, although process 500 is described in relation to the MCS of a codeword, process 500 can also be applied to other channel quality parameters of a codeword.

[0149] Referring to Figure 5, the terminal device 120 determines a codeword (referred to as the first codeword for convenience in this specification) from the codeword, for example, based on channel quality parameters associated with the codeword 520. In some embodiments, the first codeword may be associated with channel quality exceeding a quality threshold. For example, the first codeword may be associated with the best channel quality among the codewords. In some embodiments, the codeword having the maximum MCS index for the initial transmission may be determined as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the codeword includes at least the initial transmission codeword and the retransmission codeword, the initial transmission codeword may be determined as the first codeword, while the retransmission codeword may not be determined as the first codeword.

[0150] In some embodiments, if the MCS index of a codeword has different values, the terminal device 120 can determine a first codeword from the codewords based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds. In some embodiments, the threshold can depend on the MCS table being used. For example, the threshold can be 26, 27, 28, or 29. For example, the threshold is less than the highest MCS index in the MCS table. In some embodiments, the MCS table is predefined, for example, for PUSCH or UL transmission.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first codeword can be determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is below a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword having the highest MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the first MCS index in the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index in the MCS index is above a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword having the first MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is above a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword having the highest MCS index from among the codewords for the initial transmission as the first codeword.

[0152] In some embodiments, the first codeword can be determined based on a starting codeword within the MCS range. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is below a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is above a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0153] In some embodiments, if the MCS index values ​​are the same, the terminal device 120 can determine the starting codeword among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0154] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can report to the network device 110 its ability to indicate a method for determining the first codeword (e.g., any of the embodiments described above). In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can report to the network device 110 its ability to indicate that the first codeword is determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can report to the network device 110 its ability to indicate that the first codeword is determined based on a starting codeword within the MCS range. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can report to the network device 110 its ability to indicate that the first codeword is determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range or a starting codeword.

[0155] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can transmit instructions to the terminal device 120 regarding a method for determining the first codeword. In some embodiments, the instructions can be transmitted in an RRC configuration or by other suitable means. In some embodiments, the instructions can represent the method itself. For example, the instructions may indicate that the first codeword is determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range. In another embodiment, the instructions may indicate that the first codeword is determined based on a starting codeword within the MCS range.

[0156] In some alternative embodiments, if instructions for determining the first codeword are present in the RRC configuration, the first codeword can be determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range. If no instructions are present in the RRC configuration, the first codeword can be determined based on the starting codeword within the MCS range. In some embodiments, if instructions are present in the RRC configuration, the first codeword can be determined based on the starting codeword within the MCS range. If no instructions are present in the RRC configuration, the first codeword can be determined based on the codeword having the highest MCS within the MCS range.

[0157] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword associated with information of a predetermined SRS resource set configured for the terminal device 120 as the first codeword. For example, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword associated with a predetermined SRS resource set as the first codeword. In another embodiment, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword associated with a predetermined TRP corresponding to a predetermined SRS resource set as the first codeword. In another embodiment, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword associated with a predetermined panel corresponding to a predetermined SRS resource set as the first codeword. In another embodiment, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword associated with a predetermined TCI status corresponding to a predetermined SRS resource set as the first codeword.

[0158] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to channel quality that is above a quality threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to a modulation command that is above a modulation command threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to spectral efficiency that is above a spectral efficiency threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to a code rate that is above a code rate threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to channel quality index (CQI) that is above a channel quality index (CQI) threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to propagation loss that is below a propagation loss threshold as the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine a codeword in a codeword related to timing advance (TA) that is below a timing advance (TA) threshold as the first codeword.

[0159] Following a reference to Figure 5, the terminal device 120 transmits UCI or PTRS on the first codeword to the network device 110 530.

[0160] In some embodiments of UCI transmission, the terminal device 120 can multiplex the UCI on a first codeword.

[0161] In some embodiments of PTRS transmission, the terminal device 120 can associate a first codeword with a PTRS. The terminal device 120 can then determine a PTRS port based on the DMRS port associated with the first codeword and the association between the PTRS port and the DMRS port, and transmit a PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0162] As an example, the exemplary relationship between the PTRS port and the DMRS port for UL PTRS port 0 is configured as shown in Table 1 below. In this embodiment, the codeword (CW:codeword) with a higher MCS for initial transmission is determined as the first codeword. Table 1 TIFF2026518958000002.tif30168

[0163] Process 500 allows the UCI to be multiplexed to a codeword with better channel quality, thereby improving the probability of successful UCI transmission. PTRS can be transmitted in relation to a codeword with better channel quality, improving the performance of PTRS for phase estimation. It should be understood that the operations described in Process 500 can be performed in any appropriate combination. <Implementation example of method>

[0164] Accordingly, embodiments of this disclosure provide methods for communication implemented in terminal devices and network devices. These methods are described below with reference to Figures 6 or 9.

[0165] Figure 6 shows exemplary methods 600 of communication performed in a terminal device according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, method 600 can be performed in a terminal device 120 as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. For clarity of discussion, method 600 will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C. Method 600 may include additional blocks not shown, and / or some blocks shown may be omitted, and it should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0166] In block 610, the terminal device 120 determines at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the information may include that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode.

[0167] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on SFN, where the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission. In some embodiments, the second mode is based on SDM, where transmissions are individually precoded and transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the port associated with the uplink transmission.

[0168] In block 620, terminal device 120 transmits a UCI to network device 110 via uplink transmission in relation to at least one SRS resource set. In some embodiments, the UCI carries at least an AP or SP CSI report. In some embodiments, terminal device 120 receives a DCI from network device 110 that activates the UCI transmission.

[0169] In some embodiments, uplink transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI. In some embodiments, when the uplink transmission is in a first mode, the terminal device 120 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. In some embodiments, when the uplink transmission is in a second mode, the terminal device 120 can determine one of the multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmission.

[0170] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the highest transmit power from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of start layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the maximum number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0171] In some embodiments, if a first instruction for at least one SRS resource set is received from the network device 110, the terminal device 120 can determine a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. If no first instruction is received from the network device 110, the terminal device 120 can determine a predetermined SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. In some embodiments, the first instruction may be related to uplink transmission information.

[0172] In some embodiments, when multiple uplink transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by multiple DCIs, the terminal device 120 can determine the SRS resource set for the UCI transmission from the multiple SRS resource sets. The SRS resource sets and DCIs are associated with the same control resource set pool index.

[0173] In some embodiments, if multiple uplink transmissions are scheduled by multiple DCIs and a second instruction for at least one SRS resource set associated with scheduling by the multiple DCIs is received from the network device 110, the terminal device 120 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions. In some embodiments, if multiple uplink transmissions are scheduled by multiple DCIs and no second instruction is received from the network device 110, the terminal device 120 can determine a predetermined SRS resource set among multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions.

[0174] In some embodiments, at least one SRS resource set comprises only one SRS resource set, and multiple SRS resource sets are associated with multiple panels of the terminal device. In these embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit UCI by performing at least one of rate matching or MCS adjustment for each of the multiple panels.

[0175] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can receive a configuration from the network device 110 that indicates repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets on multiple occasions, and can transmit a UCI on at least one of those occasions.

[0176] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit a UCI to the initiation opportunity among multiple opportunities. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit a UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets for multiple opportunities. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can transmit a UCI to the first opportunity among multiple opportunities in relation to the first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets, and to the second opportunity among multiple opportunities in relation to the second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets.

[0177] In some embodiments, if a third instruction is received from the network device 110 indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation opportunity among several opportunities, the terminal device 120 may transmit the UCI on multiple opportunities. If the third instruction is not received from the network device 110, the terminal device 120 may transmit the UCI on the initiation opportunity.

[0178] Method 600 allows UCI to be transmitted over or multiplexed on the most reliable resource, thereby improving the probability of a successful UCI transmission.

[0179] Figure 7 shows another exemplary method 700 of communication performed in a terminal device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, method 700 can be performed in a terminal device 120 as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. For the sake of clarity, method 700 will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C. Method 700 may include additional blocks not shown, and / or some blocks shown may be omitted, and it should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0180] In block 710, the terminal device 120 receives a configuration from the network device 110 that indicates the MCS index of the codeword for uplink transmission.

[0181] In block 720, terminal device 120 determines that the MCS index has different values.

[0182] In block 730, the terminal device 120 determines a first codeword from the codewords based on the MCS index value and threshold of the codewords.

[0183] In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is below a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword with the highest MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the first MCS index in the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index in the MCS index is above a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword with the first MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is above a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine the codeword with the highest MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword for the initial transmission.

[0184] In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index falls below a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index exceeds a threshold, the terminal device 120 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0185] In some embodiments where the MCS index values ​​are the same, the terminal device 120 can determine the starting codeword among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0186] In block 740, the terminal device 120 transmits UCI or PTRS over the first codeword to the network device 110. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can multiplex UCI over the first codeword. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 can associate PTRS with the first codeword and determine the PTRS port based on the DMRS port associated with the first codeword and the association between the PTRS port and the DMRS port. The terminal device 120 can then transmit PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0187] Method 700 allows UCI to be multiplexed to a codeword with better channel quality, thereby improving the probability of successful UCI transmission. PTRS can be transmitted in relation to a codeword with better channel quality, thereby improving the performance of PTRS for phase estimation.

[0188] Figure 8 shows exemplary methods 800 of communication performed on a network device according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, method 800 can be performed on network device 110 (e.g., network device 110-1 or 110-2), as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. For clarity of discussion, method 800 will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C. Method 800 may include additional blocks not shown, and / or some blocks shown may be omitted, and it should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0189] In block 810, the network device 110 determines at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the information may include that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode.

[0190] In block 820, the network device 110 transmits a UCI from the terminal device 120 via uplink transmission in relation to at least one SRS resource set.

[0191] In some embodiments, the UCI carries at least an AP or SP CSI report. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can send a DCI to the terminal device 120 to activate UCI transmission.

[0192] In some embodiments, uplink transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI. When the uplink transmission is in a first mode, the network device 110 can determine multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmission. When the uplink transmission is in a second mode, the network device 110 can determine one of the multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmission.

[0193] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on SFN, where the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission. In some embodiments, the second mode is based on SDM, where transmissions are individually precoded and transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the port associated with the uplink transmission.

[0194] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set associated with the highest transmit power from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by determining the SRS resource set having the maximum number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0195] In some embodiments, when multiple SRS resource sets are used for UCI reception, the network device 110 may send a first instruction to the terminal device 120 for at least one SRS resource set. If a predetermined SRS resource set is used for UCI reception among multiple SRS resource sets, the network device 110 may not send a first instruction to the terminal device 120. In some embodiments, the first instruction may be related to uplink transmission information.

[0196] In some embodiments, when multiple uplink transmissions related to multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by multiple DCIs, the network device 110 can determine an SRS resource set from the multiple SRS resource sets for UCI reception. The SRS resource sets and DCIs are related to the same control resource set pool index.

[0197] In some embodiments, where multiple uplink transmissions are scheduled by multiple DCIs and multiple SRS resource sets are used for UCI reception, the network device 110 may send a second instruction to the terminal device 120 for at least one SRS resource set related to scheduling by the multiple DCIs. In some embodiments, where multiple uplink transmissions are scheduled by multiple DCIs and a predetermined SRS resource set is used for UCI reception among the multiple SRS resource sets, the network device 110 may not send a second instruction to the terminal device.

[0198] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can transmit a configuration to the terminal device 120 that indicates repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets on multiple occasions, and can receive a UCI on at least one of those occasions.

[0199] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can receive a UCI on the first opportunity of a plurality of opportunities. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can receive a UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets on multiple opportunities. In some embodiments, the network device 110 can receive a UCI on the first opportunity of a plurality of opportunities in relation to the first SRS resource set of a plurality of SRS resource sets, and on the second opportunity of a plurality of opportunities in relation to the second SRS resource set of a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0200] In some embodiments, if the UCI is to be received on multiple occasions, the network device 110 may send a third instruction to the terminal device 120 indicating that the UCI should be sent on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among the multiple occasions. In some embodiments, if the UCI is to be received on the initiation occasion, the network device 110 may not send a third instruction to the terminal device.

[0201] Method 800 can improve the probability of successful UCI transmission.

[0202] Figure 9 shows another exemplary method 900 of communication performed on a network device according to several embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, method 900 can be performed on network device 110 (e.g., network device 110-1 or 110-2), as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. For clarity of discussion, method 900 will be described with reference to Figures 1A to 1C. Method 900 may include additional blocks not shown, and / or some blocks shown may be omitted, and it should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0203] In block 910, the network device 110 transmits to the terminal device 120 a configuration indicating the MCS index of the codeword for uplink transmission.

[0204] In block 920, the network device 110 determines that the MCS index has different values.

[0205] In block 930, the network device 110 determines a first codeword from the codewords based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords.

[0206] In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is below a threshold, the network device 110 can determine the codeword with the highest MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the first MCS index in the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index in the MCS index is above a threshold, the network device 110 can determine the codeword with the first MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index is above a threshold, the network device 110 can determine the codeword with the highest MCS index from among the codewords as the first codeword for the initial transmission.

[0207] In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index falls below a threshold, the network device 110 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword. In some embodiments, if the value of the MCS index exceeds a threshold, the network device 110 can determine a starting codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0208] In some embodiments where the MCS index values ​​are the same, the network device 110 can determine the starting codeword among the codewords as the first codeword.

[0209] In block 930, the network device 110 receives UCI or PTRS on the first codeword from the terminal device 120.

[0210] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can receive UCI multiplexed on a first codeword.

[0211] In some embodiments, the network device 110 can associate a PTRS with a first codeword and determine a PTRS port based on the association between the PTRS port and the DMRS port, and the DMRS port associated with the first codeword. The network device 110 can then receive PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0212] Method 900 can improve the probability of successful UCI transmission and enhance the performance of PTRS for phase estimation.

[0213] Figure 10 is a simplified block diagram of a device 1000 suitable for carrying out embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 1000 can be considered as a further implementation example of terminal device 120 and network devices 110-1 and 110-2, as shown in Figures 1A to 1C. Thus, device 1000 can be implemented in terminal device 120 and network devices 110-1 and 110-2, or as at least a part thereof.

[0214] As shown in the figure, the device 1000 includes a processor 1010, a memory 1020 coupled to the processor 1010, a suitable transceiver 1040 coupled to the processor 1010, and a communication interface coupled to the transceiver 1040. The memory 1010 stores at least a portion of the program 1030. The transceiver 1040 may be for bidirectional or unidirectional communication depending on the requirements. The transceiver 1040 may include at least one of a transmitter 1042 or a receiver 1044. The transmitter 1042 and receiver 1044 may be functional modules or physical entities. The transceiver 1040 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication, but in practice, the access node referred to in this application may have multiple antennas. The communication interface can represent any interface necessary for communication with other network elements, such as the X2 / Xn interface for bidirectional communication between eNBs / gNBs, the S1 / NG interface for communication between Mobility Management Entities (MMEs) / Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMFs) / SGWs / UPFs and eNBs / gNBs, the Un interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and relay nodes (RNs), or the Uu interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and terminal devices.

[0215] Program 1030 is assumed to include program instructions that, when executed by the associated processor 1010, enable the device 1000 to operate according to embodiments of the present disclosure, as described herein with reference to Figures 1A to 9. Embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented by computer software executable by the processor 1010 of the device 1000, by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. The processor 1010 can be configured to implement various embodiments of the present disclosure. Furthermore, a combination of the processor 1010 and memory 1020 can also form processing means 1050 adapted to implement various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0216] Memory 1020 may be of any type suitable for a local technology network and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, including but not limited to non-temporary computer-readable storage media, semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory. Although only one memory 1020 is shown in device 1000, device 1000 may contain multiple physically different memory modules. Processor 1010 may be of any type suitable for a local technology network and may include, but not limited to, one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, dedicated computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), and processors based on multicore processor architectures. Device 1000 may incorporate multiple processors, such as application-specific integrated circuit chips that are time-dependent to a clock synchronized with the main processor.

[0217] In some embodiments, the terminal device includes a circuit configured to: determine at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of sounding reference signal resource sets (SRS) based on uplink transmission information associated with a plurality of SRS, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and transmit uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission associated with the at least one SRS resource set to the network device.

[0218] In some embodiments, the terminal device includes a circuit configured to perform the following: receive from the network device a configuration indicating an index of the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) of an uplink transmission codeword; determine a first codeword from the codeword based on the value of the MCS index of the codeword and a first codeword from the codeword based on a threshold, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and transmit uplink control information (UCI) or a phase-tracking reference signal (PTRS) to the network device on the first codeword.

[0219] In some embodiments, the network device includes circuitry configured to: determine at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and to receive uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set from a terminal device.

[0220] In some embodiments, the network device includes a circuit configured to: transmit to a terminal device a configuration indicating an index of the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) of an uplink transmission codeword; determine a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and receive uplink control information (UCI) or phase-tracking reference signals (PTRS) from the terminal device on the first codeword.

[0221] As used herein, the term “circuit” may refer to a hardware circuit and / or a combination of a hardware circuit and software. For example, a circuit may be a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware. In a further embodiment, a circuit may be any part of a software-equipped hardware processor, including a digital signal processor, software, and memory, which work together to enable a device such as a terminal or network device to perform various functions. In yet another embodiment, a circuit may be a hardware circuit and / or processor, such as a microprocessor or a part of a microprocessor, which requires software / firmware for operation but may not have software when not required for operation. As used herein, the term “circuit” also encompasses implementations of hardware circuits or processors alone, or implementations of hardware circuits or parts of processors, as well as implementations of software and / or firmware associated therewith.

[0222] In summary, embodiments of this disclosure provide the following solutions:

[0223] In one solution, the terminal device includes a processor configured to perform the following: determine at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and transmit uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set to the network device.

[0224] In some embodiments, the UCI carries at least aperiodic or semi-persistent reports of channel status information (CSI). In some embodiments, the terminal device is further configured to receive downlink control information (DCI) from the network device to activate UCI transmission.

[0225] In some embodiments, uplink transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, and the terminal device is configured to determine at least one SRS resource set by at least one of the following: determining multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a first mode, or determining multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a second mode.

[0226] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on a single-frequency network in which the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission, and the second mode is based on spatial division multiplexing in which transmissions are individually precoded on the ports associated with the uplink transmission and transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets.

[0227] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by at least one of the following: determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set associated with the highest transmit power from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; or determining the SRS resource set having the maximum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0228] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by at least one of the following: determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that a first instruction for at least one SRS resource set is received from the network device, or determining a predetermined SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that a first instruction is not received from the network device.

[0229] In some embodiments, the first instruction relates to uplink transmission information.

[0230] In some embodiments, the terminal device is further configured to perform at least one of the following: determining an SRS resource set for a UCI transmission from a plurality of SRS resource sets in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions associated with a plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs, where the SRS resource set and DCI are associated with the same control resource set pool index; determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for a UCI transmission in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a second instruction for at least one SRS resource set associated with scheduling by the plurality of DCIs is received from the network device; or determining a predetermined SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for a UCI transmission in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a second instruction has not been received from the network device.

[0231] In some embodiments, at least one SRS resource set comprises only one SRS resource set, and multiple SRS resource sets are associated with multiple panels of a terminal device, and the terminal device is configured to transmit UCI by performing at least one of rate matching or modulation and coding scheme (MCS) adjustment for each of the multiple panels.

[0232] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to transmit a UCI by receiving a configuration from the network device on multiple occasions indicating repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets, and transmitting a UCI on at least one of the multiple occasions.

[0233] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to transmit UCI by transmitting UCI on an initiation opportunity among multiple opportunities, transmitting UCI on multiple opportunities on the same group of SRS resource sets, or transmitting UCI in relation to a first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a first opportunity among multiple opportunities, and in relation to a second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a second opportunity among multiple opportunities.

[0234] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to transmit the UCI by transmitting it on multiple occasions in accordance with the decision that a third instruction is received from the network device indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among multiple occasions, and by transmitting the UCI on the initiation occasion in accordance with the decision that the third instruction is not received from the network device.

[0235] In an alternative solution, the terminal device includes a processor configured to perform the following: receiving from the network device a configuration indicating the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index of the codeword for uplink transmission; determining a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and transmitting uplink control information (UCI) or phase-tracking reference signals (PTRS) to the network device on the first codeword.

[0236] In some embodiments, the terminal device is further configured to determine the starting codeword in the codeword as the first codeword, according to the determination that the MCS index has the same value.

[0237] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to determine the first codeword by at least one of the following: determining the codeword with the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; determining the codeword with the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the first MCS index among the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index is above a threshold; determining the codeword with the highest MCS index for initial transmission among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold; determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; or determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold.

[0238] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to transmit UCI by multiplexing the UCI on a first codeword.

[0239] In some embodiments, the terminal device is configured to transmit PTRS by: associating PTRS with a first codeword; determining the PTRS port based on the association between the PTRS port and the demodulated reference signal (DMRS) port associated with the first codeword; and transmitting PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0240] In an alternative solution, the network device includes a processor configured to perform the following: determine at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and receives uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission relating to at least one SRS resource set from a terminal device.

[0241] In some embodiments, the UCI carries at least aperiodic or semi-persistent reports of channel status information (CSI), and the network device is further configured to transmit downlink control information (DCI) to terminal devices to activate UCI transmission.

[0242] In some embodiments, uplink transmissions associated with multiple SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, and the network device is configured to determine at least one SRS resource set by at least one of the following: determining multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a first mode, or determining multiple SRS resource sets for UCI transmissions according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a second mode.

[0243] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on a single-frequency network in which the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission, and the second mode is based on spatial division multiplexing in which transmissions are individually precoded on the ports associated with the uplink transmission and transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets.

[0244] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to determine one of a plurality of SRS resource sets by at least one of the following: determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set associated with the highest transmit power from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; or determining the SRS resource set having the maximum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0245] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to: transmit a first instruction to a terminal device for at least one SRS resource set in accordance with the decision that multiple SRS resource sets are to be used for UCI reception; and not transmit a first instruction to a terminal device in accordance with the decision that a given SRS resource set among multiple SRS resource sets is to be used for UCI reception.

[0246] In some embodiments, the first instruction relates to uplink transmission information.

[0247] In some embodiments, the network device is further configured to perform at least one of the following: determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI reception in accordance with a decision that multiple uplink transmissions related to a plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs, where the SRS resource sets and DCIs are related to the same control resource set pool index; or transmitting a second instruction to the terminal device for at least one SRS resource set related to scheduling by a plurality of DCIs in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a plurality of SRS resource sets are used for UCI reception; or not transmitting a second instruction to the terminal device in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a predetermined SRS resource set among the plurality of SRS resource sets is used for UCI reception.

[0248] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to receive a UCI by transmitting a configuration indicating repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets to a terminal device on multiple occasions, and receiving the UCI on at least one of those occasions.

[0249] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to receive UCI by receiving UCI on an initiation opportunity among multiple opportunities, receiving UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets on multiple opportunities, or receiving UCI in relation to a first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a first opportunity among multiple opportunities, and in relation to a second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a second opportunity among multiple opportunities.

[0250] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to further transmit a third instruction to the terminal device indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among the multiple occasions, in accordance with the decision that the UCI should be received on multiple occasions, and not transmit a third instruction to the terminal device in accordance with the decision that the UCI should be received on the initiation occasion.

[0251] In an alternative solution, the network device includes a processor configured to perform the following: transmit to a terminal device a configuration indicating the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index of the codeword for uplink transmission; determine a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and receive uplink control information (UCI) or phase-tracking reference signals (PTRS) from the terminal device on the first codeword.

[0252] In some embodiments, the network device is further configured to determine the starting codeword in the codeword as the first codeword, according to the determination that the MCS index has the same value.

[0253] In some embodiments, the network device is configured to determine the first codeword by at least one of the following: determining the codeword with the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; determining the codeword with the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of a first MCS index among the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of a second MCS index is above a threshold; determining the codeword with the highest MCS index for initial transmission among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold; determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; or determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to the determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold.

[0254] In some embodiments, a network device is configured to receive a UCI by receiving a UCI multiplexed on a first codeword.

[0255] In some embodiments, a network device is configured to receive PTRS by: associating PTRS with a first codeword; determining the PTRS port based on the association between the PTRS port and the demodulated reference signal (DMRS) port associated with the first codeword and the DMRS port; and receiving PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0256] In an alternative solution, the communication method includes a terminal device determining at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of sounding reference signal (SRS) resource sets, wherein the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and transmitting uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set to the network device.

[0257] In some embodiments, the UCI carries at least aperiodic or semi-persistent reports of channel status information (CSI). In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving downlink control information (DCI) from a network device to activate the UCI transmission.

[0258] In some embodiments, an uplink transmission associated with multiple SRS resource sets is scheduled by a single DCI, and determining at least one SRS resource set includes at least one of the following: determining multiple SRS resource sets for a UCI transmission according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a first mode, or determining multiple SRS resource sets for a UCI transmission according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a second mode.

[0259] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on a single-frequency network in which the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission, and the second mode is based on spatial division multiplexing in which transmissions are individually precoded on the ports associated with the uplink transmission and transmitted simultaneously in relation to multiple SRS resource sets.

[0260] In some embodiments, determining one of a plurality of SRS resource sets includes at least one of the following: determining the SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set associated with the highest transmit power from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; determining the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets; or determining the SRS resource set having the maximum number of layers from the plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0261] In some embodiments, determining at least one SRS resource set includes at least one of the following: determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that a first instruction for at least one SRS resource set is received from a network device, or determining a predetermined SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that a first instruction is not received from a network device.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first instruction relates to uplink transmission information.

[0263] In some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: determining an SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI reception in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions associated with a plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs, wherein the SRS resource set and DCI are associated with the same control resource set pool index; determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a second instruction for at least one SRS resource set associated with scheduling by the plurality of DCIs is received from the network device; or determining a predetermined SRS resource set from a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission in accordance with a decision that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs and a second instruction is not received from the network device.

[0264] In some embodiments, at least one SRS resource set comprises only one SRS resource set, and multiple SRS resource sets relate to multiple panels of a terminal device, and the UCI transmission includes performing at least one of rate matching or modulation and coding scheme (MCS) adjustment for each of the multiple panels.

[0265] In some embodiments, transmitting a UCI involves receiving a configuration from a network device that indicates repetitions related to multiple SRS resource sets on multiple occasions, and transmitting a UCI on at least one of those occasions.

[0266] In some embodiments, transmitting a UCI includes transmitting a UCI to an initiating opportunity among multiple opportunities, transmitting a UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets for multiple opportunities, or transmitting a UCI in relation to a first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets for a first opportunity among multiple opportunities, and in relation to a second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets for a second opportunity among multiple opportunities.

[0267] In some embodiments, transmitting a UCI includes transmitting the UCI on multiple occasions in accordance with the decision that a third instruction is received from the network device indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among multiple occasions, and transmitting the UCI on the initiation occasion in accordance with the decision that the third instruction is not received from the network device.

[0268] In another solution, the communication method includes, in a terminal device, receiving from a network device a configuration indicating the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index of an uplink transmission codeword; determining a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and transmitting uplink control information (UCI) or phase-tracking reference signals (PTRS) over the first codeword.

[0269] In some embodiments, the method further includes determining the starting codeword in the codeword as the first codeword according to the determination that the MCS index has the same value.

[0270] In some embodiments, determining a first codeword includes at least one of the following: determining the codeword having the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; determining the codeword having the first MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the first MCS index among the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index is above a threshold; determining the codeword having the highest MCS index among the codewords for initial transmission as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold; determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; or determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold.

[0271] In some embodiments, transmitting a UCI involves multiplexing a UCI on a first codeword.

[0272] In some embodiments, transmitting a PTRS includes associating the PTRS with a first codeword, determining the PTRS port based on a demodulated reference signal (DMRS) port associated with the first codeword and the association between the PTRS port and the DMRS port, and transmitting the PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0273] In an alternative solution, the communication method includes a network device determining, based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of sounding reference signal (SRS) resource sets, that the information includes that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and receiving uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission relating to the at least one SRS resource set from a terminal device.

[0274] In some embodiments, the UCI at least conveys an aperiodic or semi-persistent report on channel state information (CSI), and the method further includes transmitting downlink control information (DCI) that activates UCI transmission to a terminal device.

[0275] In some embodiments, uplink transmissions associated with a plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, and determining at least one SRS resource set includes at least one of the following. Determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a first mode, or determining a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI transmission according to a determination that the uplink transmission is in a second mode.

[0276] In some embodiments, the first mode is based on a single frequency network in which the same transmission is simultaneously transmitted in association with a plurality of SRS resource sets on the same port associated with the uplink transmission, and the second mode is based on spatial division multiplexing in which the transmission is precoded individually on the port associated with the uplink transmission and is simultaneously transmitted in association with a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0277] In some embodiments, determining one of a plurality of SRS resource sets includes at least one of the following. Determining an SRS resource set having the lowest SRS resource set index from a plurality of SRS resource sets, determining an SRS resource set associated with the highest transmission power from a plurality of SRS resource sets, determining an SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets, determining an SRS resource set having the smallest number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets, or determining an SRS resource set having the largest number of layers from a plurality of SRS resource sets.

[0278] In some embodiments, the method further comprises transmitting, to the terminal device, a first indication of at least one SRS resource set according to a determination that a plurality of SRS resource sets are used for UCI reception; and not transmitting the first indication to the terminal device according to a determination that a predetermined SRS resource set within the plurality of SRS resource sets is used for UCI reception.

[0279] In some embodiments, the first indication is related to uplink transmission information.

[0280] In some embodiments, the method further comprises at least one of: determining, according to a determination that a plurality of uplink transmissions related to a plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a plurality of DCIs, a plurality of SRS resource sets for UCI reception, wherein the SRS resource set and the DCI are related to the same control resource set pool indicator; transmitting, to the terminal device, a second indication of at least one SRS resource set related to scheduling by the plurality of DCIs according to a determination that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by the plurality of DCIs and a plurality of SRS resource sets are used for UCI reception; or not transmitting the second indication to the terminal device according to a determination that a plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by the plurality of DCIs and a predetermined SRS resource set within the plurality of SRS resource sets is used for UCI reception.

[0281] In some embodiments, receiving UCI comprises transmitting, to the terminal device, a configuration indicating repetitions related to a plurality of SRS resource sets on a plurality of occasions, and receiving UCI on at least one of the plurality of occasions.

[0282] In some embodiments, receiving a UCI means receiving a UCI on an initial opportunity among multiple opportunities, receiving a UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets on multiple opportunities, or receiving a UCI in relation to a first SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a first opportunity among multiple opportunities, and in relation to a second SRS resource set of multiple SRS resource sets on a second opportunity among multiple opportunities.

[0283] In some embodiments, the method further includes, in accordance with the determination that the UCI should be received on multiple occasions, transmitting a third instruction to the terminal device indicating that the UCI should be transmitted on an occasion different from the initiation occasion among the multiple occasions, and not transmitting a third instruction to the terminal device in accordance with the determination that the UCI should be received on the initiation occasion.

[0284] In another solution, the communication method includes: transmitting a configuration indicating the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index of an uplink transmission codeword to a terminal device from a network device; determining a first codeword from the codeword based on the MCS index values ​​and thresholds of the codewords, in accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values; and receiving uplink control information (UCI) or phase-tracking reference signals (PTRS) from the terminal device on the first codeword.

[0285] In some embodiments, the method further includes determining the starting codeword in the codeword as the first codeword according to the determination that the MCS index has the same value.

[0286] In some embodiments, determining a first codeword includes at least one of the following: determining the codeword having the highest MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; determining the codeword having the first MCS index among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the first MCS index among the MCS index is below a threshold and the value of the second MCS index is above a threshold; determining the codeword having the highest MCS index among the codewords for initial transmission as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold; determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is below a threshold; or determining the start codeword among the codewords as the first codeword according to a determination that the value of the MCS index is above a threshold.

[0287] In some embodiments, receiving a UCI includes receiving a UCI multiplexed on a first codeword.

[0288] In some embodiments, receiving a PTRS includes associating the PTRS with a first codeword, determining the PTRS port based on a demodulated reference signal (DMRS) port associated with the first codeword and the association between the PTRS port and the DMRS port, and receiving the PTRS based on the PTRS port.

[0289] In general, various embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some embodiments can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Various embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described using block diagrams, flowcharts, or some other graphical representations, but it should be understood that any blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented, in non-limiting examples, in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers, or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0290] This disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions, such as instructions contained in a program module, which are executed on a device on a target real or virtual processor, and which perform the processes or methods described above with reference to Figures 1A to 9. Generally, a program module includes routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc., that perform a specific task or implement a specific abstract data type. The functions of program modules can be combined or divided among program modules as needed in various embodiments. The machine-executable instructions for a program module can be executed in a local or distributed device. In a distributed device, the program module can reside on both local and remote storage media.

[0291] Program code for performing the methods of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. When executed by a processor or controller, this program code can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a dedicated computer, or other programmable data processing device so that the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams are performed. The program code can run entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a standalone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0292] The above program code can be embodied in a machine-readable medium, which can be any tangible medium that contains or can store a program used by an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device, or a program used in conjunction with such a system or device. The machine-readable medium can be a machine-readable signal medium or a machine-readable storage medium. The machine-readable medium can include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media include electrical connections with one or more wires, portable computer diskettes, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM, or flash memory), optical fibers, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0293] Furthermore, while the operations are presented in a specific order, it should not be understood that such operations must be performed in the specific order shown, sequentially, or all shown operations in order to obtain the desired results. In certain situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, the above description includes some specific implementation details, which should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of this disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to a particular embodiment. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment can be implemented individually or in any suitable combination of sub-features in multiple embodiments.

[0294] While this disclosure is described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that this disclosure, as defined in the appended claims, is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as exemplary forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A terminal device, The aforementioned terminal device, Determining at least one of a plurality of sounding reference signal (SRS) resource sets from a plurality of SRS resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information indicates that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and Transmitting uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission related to the at least one SRS resource set to the network device. A processor configured to perform, including Terminal device.

2. The UCI carries at least aperiodic or semi-permanent reports regarding channel status information (CSI), and the terminal device further: The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is configured to receive downlink control information (DCI) from the network device to activate the UCI transmission.

3. The uplink transmissions associated with the plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, and the terminal device is at least one of the following: Determining the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission in accordance with the determination that the uplink transmission is in the first mode, or In accordance with the determination that the uplink transmission is in the second mode, one of the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission is determined, The terminal device according to claim 1, which is configured to determine the at least one SRS resource set.

4. The first mode is based on a single-frequency network in which the same transmission is transmitted simultaneously on the same port associated with the uplink transmission in relation to the multiple SRS resource sets. The terminal device according to claim 3, wherein the second mode is based on spatial division multiplexing, in which transmissions on ports related to the uplink transmission are individually precoded and transmitted simultaneously in relation to the plurality of SRS resource sets.

5. The terminal device includes at least one of the following: From the aforementioned multiple SRS resource sets, determine the SRS resource set with the lowest SRS resource set index. From the aforementioned multiple SRS resource sets, determine the SRS resource set associated with the highest transmit power. From the plurality of SRS resource sets, determine an SRS resource set having a predetermined number of starting layers. From the aforementioned multiple SRS resource sets, determine the SRS resource set having the minimum number of layers, or By determining the SRS resource set with the largest number of layers from the aforementioned multiple SRS resource sets, The terminal device according to claim 3, which is configured to determine one of the plurality of SRS resource sets.

6. The terminal device includes at least one of the following: Determining the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission in accordance with the determination that a first instruction for at least one SRS resource set is received from the network device, or In accordance with the determination that the first instruction has not been received from the network device, a predetermined set of SRS resources from the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission is determined. Therefore, The terminal device according to claim 1, which is configured to determine the at least one SRS resource set.

7. The terminal device according to claim 6, wherein the first instruction relates to the uplink transmission information.

8. The terminal device includes at least one of the following: Determining the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission in accordance with the decision that the uplink transmission associated with the plurality of SRS resource sets is scheduled by the plurality of DCIs, wherein the SRS resource sets and the DCIs are associated with the same control resource set pool index. Determining the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission in accordance with the determination that the plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by the plurality of DCIs and a second instruction for the at least one SRS resource set related to the scheduling by the plurality of DCIs is received from the network device, or In accordance with the determination that the plurality of uplink transmissions are scheduled by the plurality of DCIs and that the second instruction has not been received from the network device, a predetermined SRS resource set is determined in the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission. The terminal device according to claim 1, which is configured to perform the following:

9. The at least one SRS resource set comprises only one SRS resource set, and the plurality of SRS resource sets are associated with a plurality of panels of the terminal device, and the terminal device is The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of panels is configured to transmit the UCI by performing at least one of rate matching or adjustment of the modulation and coding scheme (MCS).

10. The aforementioned terminal device is The network device receives a configuration from multiple occasions indicating repetitions related to the multiple SRS resource sets, and The terminal device according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the UCI is transmitted by transmitting the UCI on at least one of the multiple opportunities.

11. The aforementioned terminal device is Transmitting the UCI at the initiation opportunity among the aforementioned multiple opportunities, Sending the UCI on the same group of SRS resource sets on the aforementioned multiple occasions, or The terminal device according to claim 10, wherein the UCI is transmitted by transmitting the UCI in relation to the first SRS resource set of the plurality of SRS resource sets on the first of the plurality of occasions, and in relation to the second SRS resource set of the plurality of SRS resource sets on the second of the plurality of occasions.

12. The aforementioned terminal device is Transmit the UCI to the multiple opportunities in accordance with the decision that a third instruction is received from the network device indicating that the UCI should be transmitted to an opportunity different from the initiation opportunity among the multiple opportunities, and By transmitting the UCI at the start opportunity in accordance with the determination that the third instruction has not been received from the network device, The terminal device according to claim 10, which is configured to transmit the aforementioned UCI.

13. A terminal device, The aforementioned terminal device, The network device receives a configuration indicating the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) indicator for the codeword of the uplink transmission. In accordance with the determination that the MCS index has different values, a first codeword is determined from the codeword based on the value and threshold of the MCS index of the codeword, and Transmitting uplink control information (UCI) or a phase tracking reference signal (PTRS) to the network device over the first codeword, A processor configured to perform, including Terminal device.

14. The aforementioned terminal device further, The terminal device according to claim 13, wherein, in accordance with the determination that the MCS has the same value, the starting codeword in the codeword is determined to be the first codeword.

15. The terminal device includes at least one of the following: In accordance with the determination that the value of the MCS index falls below the threshold, the codeword with the highest MCS index among the codewords is determined to be the first codeword. In accordance with the determination that the value of the first MCS index among the MCS index is below the threshold and the value of the second MCS index among the MCS index is above the threshold, a codeword having the first MCS index is determined as the first codeword from among the codewords. In accordance with the determination that the value of the MCS index exceeds the threshold, the codeword having the highest MCS index among the codewords is determined as the first codeword for the initial transmission. In accordance with the determination that the value of the MCS index falls below the threshold, the starting codeword is selected from the codewords as the first codeword, or The terminal device according to claim 13, wherein the first codeword is determined by determining the start codeword from among the codewords as the first codeword in accordance with the determination that the value of the MCS index exceeds the threshold.

16. The aforementioned terminal device is The terminal device according to claim 13, wherein the UCI is transmitted by multiplexing the UCI on the first codeword.

17. The aforementioned terminal device is The PTRS is associated with the first codeword, Based on the relationship between the PTRS port and the demodulation reference signal (DMRS) port associated with the first codeword, and the DMRS port, the PTRS port is determined, and The terminal device according to claim 13, wherein the PTRS is transmitted by transmitting the PTRS based on the PTRS port.

18. Network device, The aforementioned network device, Determining at least one SRS resource set from a plurality of sounding reference signal (SRS) resource sets based on uplink transmission information relating to a plurality of SRS resource sets, wherein the information indicates that the uplink transmission is in at least one of a first mode or a second mode, and Receiving uplink control information (UCI) on the uplink transmission related to the at least one SRS resource set from the terminal device, A processor configured to perform, including Network device.

19. The UCI carries at least aperiodic or semi-permanent reports on channel status information (CSI), and the network device further: The network device according to claim 18, wherein the network device is configured to transmit downlink control information (DCI) to activate the UCI transmission to the terminal device.

20. The uplink transmissions associated with the plurality of SRS resource sets are scheduled by a single DCI, and the network device is at least one of the following: Determining the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission in accordance with the determination that the uplink transmission is in the first mode, or In accordance with the determination that the uplink transmission is in the second mode, one of the plurality of SRS resource sets for the UCI transmission is determined, The network device according to claim 18, which is configured to determine the at least one SRS resource set.

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