System and method for identifying beam and associated time

Abstract

The present disclosure proposes a system and method for identifying a time associated with a beam, wherein a network node can receive beam information from a wireless communication node to be used for a first forwarding link between a wireless communication device and the network node, the beam information can be associated with multiple beams.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to wireless communication and includes, but is not limited to, systems and methods for identifying times associated with beams.

Background Art

[0002] Background Art The standardization organization 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) is currently formulating a new radio interface called 5G New Radio (5G NR) and a next-generation packet core network (NG-CN or NGC). 5G NR has three main components: a 5G access network (5G-AN), a 5G core network (5GC), and a user equipment (UE). To easily realize various data services and needs, the elements of 5GC (also called network functions) are simplified, and some are software-based and some are hardware-based so that they can be adjusted as needed.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] Summary of the Invention The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein relate to solving problems associated with one or more problems existing in the prior art and provide additional features that will become apparent by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. According to various embodiments, exemplary systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented in an exemplary form, not a limiting one, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art who read this disclosure that various modifications (including, for example, combining features from various disclosed examples, embodiments, and / or implementation methods) can be made to the disclosed embodiments while remaining within the scope of this disclosure.

[0004] At least one aspect relates to the following system, method, apparatus, or computer-readable medium: A network node (e.g., a secondary node (SN)) can receive beam information from a radio communication node (e.g., a BS) for a first transport link (e.g., an access link) between the radio communication device and the network node. The beam information can be associated with multiple beams. The beams used by the network node on the first transport link may include a first type beam and a second type beam. The beam information may include at least one of a beam index, a beam mode index, a bit flag for indicating the beam index or beam mode index, and a beam number. The beam number may be used to indicate the number of beams in each indication.

[0005] In some embodiments, the beam index may include at least one of the following: an index for a first type of beam, an index for a second type of beam, or a bit flag used to distinguish between a first type of beam and a second type of beam.

[0006] In some embodiments, a network node may receive a list from a wireless communication node. The list may include one or more beam information and one or more associated time information. The list may be communicated to the network node via at least one of RRC signaling, MAC CE, and DCI signaling. A new field may be added to the DCI signaling to communicate beam information and associated time information simultaneously. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to communicate beam information and associated time information simultaneously.

[0007] In some embodiments, one of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for beam information and associated time information. Network nodes can be instructed on the beam's associated time information.

[0008] In some embodiments, beam information and associated time information may be communicated to network nodes via the same signaling or different signaling. A new field can be added to the DCI signaling to communicate beam information for the first transport link. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to communicate beam information for the first transport link. One of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to distinguish and indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for beam information for the first transport link.

[0009] In some embodiments, a new field can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate the relevant time information for the first transport link. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to indicate the relevant time information for the first transport link. One of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for the relevant time information for the first transport link.

[0010] In some embodiments, a wireless communication node can transmit beam instructions to a network node for a first transmission link between the wireless communication device and the network node. The beam instructions can be associated with multiple beams.

[0011] Brief explanation of the attached drawing Various exemplary embodiments of this solution are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. The attached drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and depict only exemplary embodiments of this solution to facilitate the reader's understanding. Therefore, the attached drawings should not be considered as limitations on the scope, scope, or applicability of this solution. Note that these attached drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale for clarity and ease of explanation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Examples of cellular communication networks capable of realizing the technologies disclosed herein are shown according to embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 2] The following are block diagrams illustrating exemplary base stations and user equipment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] The following are exemplary network control repeaters (NCRs) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] A flowchart for identifying the beam and associated time according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Specific Embodiments 1. Mobile communication technology and environment Figure 1 shows an exemplary wireless communication network and / or system 100 that can implement the technology disclosed herein according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the following discussion, the wireless communication network 100 may be any wireless network, such as a cellular network or a narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network, and will be referred to herein as “Network 100”. Such exemplary Network 100 includes base stations 102 (hereinafter “BS 102” also called wireless communication nodes) that can communicate with each other via communication links 110 (e.g., wireless communication channels), user equipment devices 104 (hereinafter “UE 104” also called wireless communication devices), and clusters of cells 126, 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 that cover a geographical area 101. In Figure 1, the BS 102 and UE 104 are located within the corresponding geographical boundary of cell 126. Each of the other cells 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 may include at least one base station operating within its allocated bandwidth to provide sufficient radio coverage to its expected users.

[0014] For example, BS 102 may operate under an allocated channel transmission bandwidth to provide sufficient coverage to UE 104. BS 102 and UE 104 may communicate via downlink radio frames 118 and uplink radio frames 124, respectively. Each radio frame 118 / 124 may be further divided into subframes 120 / 127, which may contain data symbols 122 / 128. In this disclosure, BS 102 and UE 104 are described herein as non-limiting examples of “communication nodes” in general, and the methods disclosed herein can be put into practice. According to various embodiments of this solution, such communication nodes can perform wireless and / or wired communications.

[0015] Figure 2 shows a block diagram of an exemplary wireless communication system 200 for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals (e.g., OFDM / OFDMA signals) according to several embodiments of the present solution. System 200 may include components and elements configured to support known or conventional operating characteristics that do not need to be described in detail herein. As described above, in one exemplary embodiment, system 200 may be used to transmit (e.g., transmit and receive) data symbols in a wireless communication environment such as the wireless communication environment 100 in Figure 1.

[0016] System 200 generally includes a base station 202 (hereinafter referred to as "BS 202") and user equipment 204 (hereinafter referred to as "UE 204"). BS 202 includes a BS (base station) transceiver module 210, a BS antenna 212, a BS processor module 214, a BS memory module 216, and a network communication module 218, each module being coupled and interconnected to one another via a data communication bus 220 as needed. UE 204 includes a UE (user equipment) transceiver module 230, a UE antenna 232, a UE memory module 234, and a UE processor module 236, each module being coupled and interconnected to one another via a data communication bus 240 as needed. BS 202 communicates with UE 204 via a communication channel 250, which may be any radio channel or other medium applicable to the data transmission described herein.

[0017] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, System 200 may further include any number of modules other than those shown in Figure 2. Those skilled in the art will understand that various exemplary logic blocks, modules, circuits and processing logic described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, computer-readable software, firmware, or any particular combination thereof. To clearly illustrate such interchangeability and compatibility of hardware, firmware, and software, various exemplary elements, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps are generally described in terms of their function. Whether these functions are implemented as hardware, firmware, or software may depend on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art familiar with the concepts described herein may implement such functions in a manner applicable to each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the UE transceiver 230 may also be referred to herein as the “uplink” transceiver 230, and it includes a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and an RF receiver, each of which includes circuitry connected to antenna 232. A duplex switch (not shown) can, alternatively, connect the uplink transmitter or receiver to the uplink antenna in a time-duplex manner. Similarly, according to some embodiments, the BS transceiver 210 may also be referred to herein as the “downlink” transceiver 210, and it includes an RF transmitter and an RF receiver, each of which includes circuitry connected to antenna 212. A downlink duplex switch can, alternatively, connect the downlink transmitter or receiver to the downlink antenna 212 in a time-duplex manner. The operation of the two transceiver modules 210 and 230 can be timely coordinated, and the uplink receiver circuit is connected to the uplink antenna 232 to receive transmissions over the radio transmission link 250 at the same time that the downlink transmitter is connected to the downlink antenna 212. Conversely, the operation of the two transceivers 210 and 230 can be timely coordinated, and the downlink receiver is connected to the downlink antenna 212 to receive transmissions via the wireless transmission link 250 at the same time that the uplink transmitter is connected to the uplink antenna 232. In some embodiments, there is strict time synchronization with minimal protection time between changes in duplex direction.

[0019] The UE transceiver 230 and the base station transceiver 210 are configured to communicate via a radio data communication link 250 and to cooperate with a appropriately configured RF antenna arrangement 212 / 232 capable of supporting specific radio communication protocols and modulation schemes. In some exemplary embodiments, the UE transceiver 210 and the base station transceiver 210 are configured to support industry standards such as Long-Term Evolution (LTE) and emerging 5G standards. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not necessarily limited to applications of specific standards and associated protocols. Conversely, the UE transceiver 230 and the base station transceiver 210 may be configured to support alternative or additional radio data communication protocols, including future standards or variations thereof.

[0020] According to various embodiments, BS 202 may be, for example, an evolved node B (eNB), a service eNB, a target eNB, a femtostation, or a picostation. In some embodiments, UE 204 may be embodied in various types of user devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablets, laptop computers, and wearable computing devices. Processor modules 214 and 236 may be implemented, carried out, and designed to perform the functions described herein using general-purpose processors, content-addressable memory, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, any suitable programmable logic devices, separate gate or transistor logic, separate hardware elements, or any combination thereof. Thus, the processor may be implemented as a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, state machine, etc. The processor may further be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a digital signal processor core, or any other such configuration.

[0021] Furthermore, the steps of a method or algorithm described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, firmware, software modules executed by respective processor modules 214 and 236, or any combination thereof. Memory modules 216 and 234 may be implemented as RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. In this regard, memory modules 216 and 234 may be connected to respective processor modules 210 and 230, whereby processor modules 210 and 230 can read information from, and write information to, the respective memory modules 216 and 234. Memory modules 216 and 234 may also be integrated with their corresponding processor modules 210 and 230. In some embodiments, each of memory modules 216 and 234 may include cache memory for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of commands executed by respective processor modules 210 and 230. Each of memory modules 216 and 234 may further include non-volatile memory for storing commands executed by respective processor modules 210 and 230.

[0022] The network communication module 218 generally represents the hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other elements of the base station 202, enabling bidirectional communication between the base station transceiver 210 and other network elements and communication nodes configured to communicate with the base station 202. For example, the network communication module 218 may be configured to support Internet or WiMAX traffic. In a typical (but not limited to) configuration, the network communication module 218 provides an 802.3 Ethernet interface so that the base station transceiver 210 can communicate with a conventional Ethernet®-based computer network. Thus, the network communication module 218 may also include a physical interface for connecting to a computer network (e.g., a mobile switching center (MSC)). As used herein in relation to a specified operation or function, the terms “configured for,” “configured to,” and their inflections refer to devices, components, circuits, structures, machines, signals, etc., that are physically built, programmed, formatted, and / or arranged to perform a specified operation or function.

[0023] The Open System Interconnection (OSI) model (referred to as the "Open System Interconnection model" in this specification) is a conceptual and logical layout that defines network communications for interconnecting and communicating with other systems opened by a system (e.g., a wireless communication device, a wireless communication node). The model is divided into seven sub-components or layers, and each sub-component or layer represents a conceptual set of services provided to its upper and lower layers. The OSI model further defines a logical network and effectively explains computer packet transfer by using different layer protocols. The OSI model may also be referred to as the seven-layer OSI model or the seven-layer model. In some embodiments, the first layer may be the physical layer. In some embodiments, the second layer may be the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer. In some embodiments, the third layer may be the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer. In some embodiments, the fourth layer may be the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer. In some embodiments, the fifth layer may be the Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer. In some embodiments, the sixth layer may be the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) layer or the Internet Protocol (IP) layer, and the seventh layer may be other layers.

[0024] To enable those skilled in the art to implement and use this solution, various exemplary embodiments of this solution will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. After reading this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be made to the examples described herein without departing from the scope of this solution. Therefore, this solution is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and applications described and shown herein. Furthermore, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed herein is merely exemplary. Based on design preferences, the specific order or hierarchy of steps of the disclosed method or process may be rearranged while remaining within the scope of this solution. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the methods and techniques disclosed herein present various steps or operations in a sample order and that this solution is not limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0025] 2. Systems and methods for identifying beams and associated time. As new radio (NR) systems move to higher frequencies (around 4 GHz for FR 1 and above 24 GHz for FR 2), propagation conditions worsen and coverage challenges may become more severe compared to lower frequencies. Therefore, increasing cell density may be a solution. While a conventional full-stack cell configuration is preferable, it may not be an economically viable option. In cellular network configurations, radio frequency (RF) repeaters with full-duplex amplification and forwarding operation can be used in 2G, 3G, and / or 4G systems to provide comprehensive coverage at a relatively low cost. However, the main problem with RF repeaters is that they can amplify both signal and noise, potentially increasing interference within the system.

[0026] Another characteristic of NR systems is that they may use multi-beam operation with relevant beam management in the high frequency bands defined for time-division duplexing (TDD). Multi-antenna techniques include large-scale multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) for FR1 and analog beamforming for FR2, which facilitates addressing the demanding propagation conditions in these high frequency bands. RF repeaters without beam management capabilities may not provide beamforming gain during signal transmission.

[0027] To address undesirable interference, network control repeaters (NCRs) can be considered, which utilize control information from connected base stations (BSs) to achieve intelligent amplification and transmission operations. In this disclosure, methods for beam information instruction and associated time instruction for cellular networks having NCRs are discussed.

[0028] RF repeaters can be used in 2G, 3G, and / or 4G deployments to complement the coverage provided by conventional full-stack cells with varying transmit power characteristics. RF repeaters can improve network coverage by providing a simple, economical, and effective method. The main advantages of RF repeaters are their low cost, ease of deployment, and the fact that they do not increase latency. Their main disadvantage is that RF repeaters amplify both signals and noise. Therefore, RF repeaters can lead to increased interference (e.g., pollution) within the system. Among RF repeaters, there may be different categories depending on their power characteristics and the amount of spectrum they are configured to amplify (e.g., single-band or multi-band). RF repeaters may also be non-regenerative type repeater nodes. RF repeaters can easily amplify and transmit signals omnidirectionally.

[0029] From a functional standpoint, Figure 3 shows the structure of the Network Control Repeater (NCR). The NCR-Mobile Terminal (MT) is defined as a functional entity that communicates with the gNB via a control link (C-link) to enable the exchange of control information (e.g., side control information for controlling the NCR-Fwd). The C-link is based on the NR Uu interface. The NCR-Forwarding (Fwd) is defined as a functional entity that performs amplification and forwarding of uplink / downlink (UL / DL) RF signals between the gNB and the UE via backhaul and access links. The operation of the NCR-Fwd can be controlled based on side control information received from the gNB.

[0030] Implementation Method Example 1: Beam Numbering Mechanism Beam indices may be used to indicate beam information on an access link. Different types of beams may be present on the access link. Different numbering mechanisms can be considered to index the physical beams on the access link.

[0031] In some embodiments, a unified numbering mechanism can be considered for the beams of an access link. For example, in the case of an NCR, there may be four narrowband beams and two broadband beams in the access link. These six beams can be unifiedly numbered Beam 1 through Beam 6. In this case, the BS can directly use the index number to instruct the NCR on beam information. For example, if the BS wants to instruct the NCR on Beam 2, the BS can directly use "0010" to represent the index of Beam 2.

[0032] In some embodiments, an NCR may have different types of beams, including a first type of beam (e.g., broadband beams) and a second type of beam (e.g., narrowband beams). Different types of beams can be numbered individually. All first-type beams can be indexed using a unified numbering mechanism. All second-type beams can be indexed using a unified numbering mechanism. In this case, bits can be used as flags to distinguish between different types of beams, determining whether the indicated index information points to a first-type beam or a second-type beam. In this case, the definition of a beam index includes bit flag information and beam number / index information. The beam index may also be used to indicate beam information. For example, in an NCR, there may be four narrowband beams and two broadband beams in the access link. The broadband beams may be numbered from 0 to 1, and the narrowband beams may be numbered from 0 to 3. Bit flags may be used to distinguish beam types, where bit 0 may represent a broadband beam and bit 1 may represent a narrowband beam. In this case, if the BS wants to instruct the NCR to use narrowband beam 2, the BS can use bit information "110" as the beam index for narrowband beam 2, where the first bit may be a bit flag and the latter two bits may be the number / index information for narrowband beam 2. In some embodiments, the BS can instruct the NCR to use the bit flag via at least one of the following: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control element (MAC CE) signaling, or downlink control information (DCI) signaling. The bit flag instruction and the beam number / index information may be located in the same signaling or in different signaling.In some embodiments, the bit flags may indicate beam number / index information within the same field of signaling, where one bit in the field (e.g., the first bit) may distinguish the type of beam indicated as a bit flag, and the remaining bits in the field may be used to indicate beam number / index information.

[0033] In some embodiments, a group numbering mechanism can be considered for use on beams on an access link. The beams of the NCR may be divided into different beam groups. Each beam group may include one first type of beam (e.g., a broadband beam) and multiple second type beams (e.g., narrowband beams). In this case, the group numbering method may be used to number the beams of the NCR using at least one of the following methods.

[0034] Alt 1: All first-type beams can be assigned a unified number, and multiple second-type beams within each group can be assigned a unified number. To indicate beam information, a first bit portion containing one or more bits may be used to indicate the number / index information of a first-type beam, and a second bit portion containing one or more bits may be used to indicate the number / index information of a second-type beam. These two bit portions can be indicated via at least one of the RRC signaling, MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling. These two bit portions can be indicated in the same field of the same signaling, in different fields of the same signaling, or in different signaling. In some embodiments, bits can be used as flags to represent indicated beam information to indicate the number / index information of a first-type beam or the number / index information of a second-type beam. For example, if the bit flag is 0, it may indicate that the indicated beam information is a first-type beam, and if the bit flag is 1, it may represent a second-type beam. In some embodiments, if the bit flag represents / indicates a first type of beam, it may not be necessary to constitute a second bit portion. Conversely, if the value of the bit flag represents / indicates a second type of beam, these two bit portions may be required. In this case, the definition of the beam index includes at least one of the following: the number / index information for the first type of beam, the number / index information for the second type of beam, and the bit flag information. The beam index may be used to indicate beam information.

[0035] Alt 2: All different groups can be assigned a unified number, and multiple second-type beams within each group can be assigned a unified number. Since the number / index information can implicitly indicate the number / index information of the first-type beams, it may not be necessary to number the first-type beams within each group. To indicate beam information, a first bit portion containing one or more bits may be used to indicate the number / index information of the group, and a second bit portion containing one or more bits may be used to indicate the number / index information of the second-type beams. These two bit portions can be indicated via at least one of RRC signaling, MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling. These two bit portions can be indicated in the same field of the same signaling, in different fields of the same signaling, or in different signaling. In some embodiments, bits can be used as flags to indicate the indicated beam information, either to indicate the number / index information of the group or the number / index information of the second-type beams. For example, if the bit flag is 0, it can indicate that the indicated beam information is the group number / index information, and if the bit flag is 1, it can represent the number / index information of a second type of beam. In some embodiments, if the bit flag represents / indicates the group number / index information, it may not be necessary to constitute the second bit portion. Also, if the value of the bit flag represents / indicates the number / index information of a second type of beam, these two bit portions may be required. Similarly, the definition of a beam index includes at least one of the group number / index information, the second type of beam number / index information, and the bit flag information. The beam index may be used to indicate beam information.

[0036] In some embodiments, the beam index on the access link may be reported by the NCR. The beam index on the access link may be configured by the BS for the NCR, or by the OAM.

[0037] In some embodiments, the beams used on the NCR-Fwd access link may differ from the beams supported on the NCR-Fwd access link. The beam numbering mechanism described above may be used to index the beams supported on the NCR-Fwd access link, and / or to index the beams used or configured on the NCR-Fwd access link. In some embodiments, the NCR may report the beam index of all beams supported on the access link to the BS, or the OAM may configure the beam index of all beams supported on the access link for the BS and the NCR. If the BS instructs the NCR that a subset of beams is available on the access link, at least one of the following methods may be considered for indexing the subset of beams.

[0038] Alt1:BS can re-index a subset of beams used on the access link and instruct the NCR on the mapping relationship between the new index of the beam subset and the index of the beam subset. For example, there may be four broadband beams indexed 0-3 and eight narrowband beams indexed 0-7. If BS configures a subset of beams including broadband beams 2-3 and narrowband beams 4-7 that can be used on the access link, BS can re-index the beam subset to broadband beams 0-1 and narrowband beams 0-3 and instruct the NCR on the mapping relationship between the new index of the beam subset and the index of the beam subset. BS can directly use the new index to indicate the corresponding beams. In this case, signaling costs can be reduced because, if BS directly uses the index without re-creating the index of the beam subset, it requires only one bit to indicate a broadband beam and two bits to indicate a narrowband beam, compared to two bits to indicate a broadband beam and three bits to indicate a narrowband beam.

[0039] Alt2: There is no need to re-index the subset of beams. BS can directly use the beam index corresponding to each beam to indicate beam information.

[0040] Implementation Method Example 2: Beam Application Time Information The beam signaling system (BS) can instruct the NCR (Non-Camera Signaling) with beam information. The NCR can then use the received beam information to transmit signals using the corresponding beams. The NCR's beams can be represented / identified by beam index or TCI status. Each instruction can specify one or more beams. Considering the beam instruction method, there are three options.

[0041] Option 1: BS can indicate one or more beams in each indication. The beams in the indication can be represented / identified by beam index or TCI status. The definition of the beam index can be determined based on the different beam numbering mechanisms shown in Implementation Example 1.

[0042] Option 2: BS can specify one or more beam modes in each instruction. A beam mode may be an ordering sequence of NCR beams used one by one. Beams in a beam mode can be represented / identified by a beam index or TCI state. The definition of a beam index can be determined based on different beam numbering mechanisms shown in Implementation Example 1. Beams in each beam mode may be the same or different. If all beams in a beam mode are the same, it can be indicated that the beam mode contains only one beam.

[0043] Option 3: The BS constitutes a list of applicable beams containing one or more beam modes. Beams in a beam mode can be represented / identified by a beam index or TCI state. The definition of a beam index can be determined based on different beam numbering mechanisms shown in Implementation Example 1. Each beam mode in the list may have a corresponding beam mode index. Beams in each beam mode may be the same or different. If all beams in a beam mode are the same, it can be indicated that the beam mode contains only one beam. The BS can directly indicate one or more beam mode indices to the NCR in each indication.

[0044] In addition to beam information, the beam system (BS) can also instruct the NCR (Non-Critical Monitor) on time-domain information related to the beam information. In some embodiments, time-domain information may be used to instruct the application time of other operations of the NCR (e.g., power control, on / off). The time-domain information may include at least one of (1) parameters related to the time resources of the beam information, (2) time offset, (3) time granularity, or (4) periodicity.

[0045] The time offset may be the time interval between the transmission of control information by the BS and the earliest applicable transfer time of the NCR after receiving the control information. The BS may configure a time offset to the NCR that includes a time slot level value K1 and / or a symbol level value K2. In some embodiments, the configuration of K2 may be omitted. For example, the BS may transmit a beam information instruction to the NCR. Transmission of the instruction may end at time slot n. The time offset may be symbol K2 at time slot n+K1. In some embodiments, both K1 and K2 may be zero. In this case, the NCR can apply the beam (which has time domain information) when it receives the beam information (e.g., from time slot n).

[0046] Regarding parameters related to the time resources of beam information, different parameters can be considered when the beam indication differs. In the case of beam modes, the NCR can determine the start time and duration of the beam mode. The NCR can also determine the duration of each beam in the beam mode. For application time information in the case of beam modes, the following two cases can be considered:

[0047] Case 1: Time resources for beam mode when the beam is used continuously in beam mode.

[0048] In this case, the beams in the beam mode can be used sequentially one by one without a time gap. The time-domain information of the beam mode may include at least one of the following: (1) parameters related to the time resource of the beam mode, (2) time offset, (3) time granularity, or (4) periodicity. The parameters related to the time resource of the beam mode may include the start time and duration of the beam mode. In some embodiments, the time length of each beam in the beam mode can also be specified.

[0049] Firstly, the duration of each beam in the beam mode may have at least one of the following alternatives:

[0050] Alt 1: Default time length. The default time length can represent the time length applied to all beams in beam mode. The default time length may be predefined or known by the NCR and / or gNB.

[0051] Alt 2: Time length. The time length applicable to all beams in beam mode may be instructed to the NCR by the BS.

[0052] Alt 3: Multiple time lengths. Each of the multiple time lengths may be associated with a beam in beam mode, which may be instructed to the NCR by the BS.

[0053] Alt 4: Multiple time lengths. Each of the multiple time lengths may be associated with multiple beams in the beam mode, which may be instructed to the NCR by the BS.

[0054] Secondly, the start time and duration of the beam mode can be indicated by at least one of the start time, end time, start-length indicator (SLIV), or duration of the beam mode.

[0055] The start time may be used to indicate the start time of a beam mode. The start time can be indicated via a start time slot and / or a start symbol. The start time of a beam mode in time domain information may include a start time slot index (e.g., Sslot) and / or a start symbol index (e.g., Ssymbol). In some embodiments, the start time may be implicitly indicated, or, if there is no explicit start time indication value, it may follow a predefined rule. For example, if the BS does not indicate a start time to the NCR, and the BS indicates a time offset (e.g., time offset parameters K1 and / or K2), the indicated start time of the beam information may be symbol K2 in time slot n+K1. For example, if the BS does not indicate a start time to the NCR, and the BS indicates a time offset (e.g., time offset parameters K1 and / or K2), the NCR may start the transfer operation using the indicated beam from X (X≧1) time slots after the application time defined by the time offset, where X may be predefined by the NCR and the BS, or indicated to the NCR by the BS.

[0056] The end time may be used to indicate the end time of the beam mode. The end time can be indicated via an end time slot and / or an end symbol. The beam mode end time in the time domain information may include an end time slot index (e.g., Eslot) and / or an end symbol index (e.g., Esymbol).

[0057] The duration of the beam mode may include the number of time slots and / or the number of symbols. The duration may also include multiple time slot indices and / or multiple symbol indices.

[0058] The start time and duration of a beam mode can be specified by combination parameters. A Start-Length Indicator (SLIV) can be defined for a duration with a predefined maximum duration. If the duration does not exceed one time slot, the Start-Length Indicator (SLIV) can be used to specify the start symbol Ssymbol and the duration of the beam mode (e.g., the number of symbols Lsymbol). If the duration has a time slot level granularity and does not exceed a subframe, the SLIV can be used to specify the start time slot Sslot and the duration (e.g., the number of symbols Lslot).

[0059] Specifically, the start time and duration of the beam mode can be specified by combining the above parameters. For example, at least one of the following options can be used.

[0060] OP 1.1 (Start Time): The BS can only instruct the NCR on the start time, and the duration of the beam mode can be implicitly instructed by the sum of the durations of each beam in the beam mode.

[0061] OP 1.2 (Time Offset): The start time of the beam mode can be implicitly indicated by the time offset. The duration of the beam mode can be implicitly indicated by the sum of the durations of each beam in the beam mode.

[0062] OP 1.3 (Start Time + Duration): The BS can instruct the NCR on the start time and duration of the beam mode. In this case, the duration of the beam mode may be equal to the sum of the application times of each beam in the beam mode.

[0063] OP 1.4 (Start Time + End Time): The BS can instruct the NCR on the start and end times. The time interval between the start and end times must be equal to the sum of the application times of each beam in the beam mode.

[0064] OP 1.5 (End Time): The BS can only instruct the NCR on the end time, and if the NCR is instructed on a time offset, the time offset implicitly instructs on the start time. If the BS does not instruct the NCR on a time offset, the BS can indicate / instruct that the NCR can transmit the signal using the beam mode after receiving the beam information.

[0065] OP 1.6(SLIV): The beam system can express the start and duration of a beam mode by instructing the NCR with an SLIV value. The duration calculated by SLIV may be equal to the sum of the application times of each beam in the beam mode.

[0066] In some embodiments, regarding beam mode application time information, the BS can instruct only the NCR on the application time length of each beam in the beam mode, and the mechanism for the application time length of each beam may be the same as Alt1 to Alt4 in Case 1 of Implementation Example 2. The start time of the beam mode can be implicitly indicated by a time offset, or if no time offset is configured for the NCR, the NCR can transmit signals using the beam mode after receiving the beam information. The duration of the beam mode can be implicitly indicated by the sum of the application time lengths of each beam in the beam mode.

[0067] Case 2: Parameters related to the time resources of the beam mode when the beam is used discontinuously in beam mode.

[0068] In this case, the application time of each beam in the beam mode may not be used continuously, which can indicate that there may be a time gap between the application times of adjacent beams in the beam mode. Similarly, the time information of the beam mode may include at least one of the following: (1) parameters related to the time resources of the beam mode, (2) time offset, (3) time granularity, or (4) periodicity. For the parameters related to the time resources of the beam mode in this case 2, at least one of the following two options can be considered.

[0069] Option 1: Individual time resource parameters for each beam in beam mode. In this Case 2, since the beams in the beam mode are not used continuously, time parameters can be defined for each beam in the beam mode. For each beam in the beam mode, the time resource information for each beam can be indicated by at least one of the following: start time, end time, beam duration, or SLIV.

[0070] The start time may be used to indicate the start time of a beam, and can be indicated via a start time slot and / or a start symbol. The start time of a beam in time domain information may include a start time slot index (e.g., Sslot) and / or a start symbol index (e.g., Ssymbol). The start time of the first beam in a beam mode does not have to be earlier than the time offset of the beam mode. In some embodiments, the start time of the first beam in a beam mode can be implicitly indicated by the time offset, or, if there is no explicit indication of the start time, it can follow a predefined rule. For example, if the BS does not indicate the start time of the first beam in a beam mode to the NCR, and the BS indicates the time offset of the beam mode to the NCR (e.g., time offset parameters K1 and / or K2), the start time of the first beam in a beam mode may be symbol K2 in time slot n+K1. In another example, if the BS does not instruct the NCR on a start time, but the BS instructs the NCR on a time offset (e.g., time offset parameters K1 and / or K2), the NCR can start the transfer operation using the instructed beam from X (X≧1) time slots after the application time defined by the time offset, where X may be predefined by the NCR and the BS, or may be instructed by the BS to the NCR.

[0071] The end time may be used to indicate the end time of the beam, and can be indicated via an end time slot and / or end symbol. The beam end time in the time domain information may include an end time slot index Eslot and / or an end symbol index Esymbol.

[0072] The duration of the beam may include the number of time slots and / or the number of symbols. The duration may also include multiple time slot indices and / or multiple symbol indices.

[0073] The beam start time and duration can be specified by combination parameters. A Start-Length Indicator (SLIV) can be defined for durations with a predefined maximum duration. If the duration does not exceed one time slot, the Start-Length Indicator (SLIV) can be used to specify the start symbol Ssymbol and the duration of the beam mode (e.g., the number of symbols Lsymbol). If the duration has a time slot level granularity and does not exceed a subframe, the SLIV can be used to specify the start time slot Sslot and the duration (e.g., the number of symbols Lslot).

[0074] Specifically, the beam start time and duration can be specified by combining the above parameters. For example, at least one of the following options can be used.

[0075] Alt 1.1: Start time + End time. Alt 1.2: Start time + duration.

[0076] Alt 1.3:SLIV. Alt 1.4: Time offset + duration. In this case, the start time can be implicitly indicated by the time offset.

[0077] Alt 1.5: Duration. Option 2: The time-related parameters and mechanisms may be the same as those in Case 1 of Implementation Example 2. In addition to the parameters and mechanisms described in Case 1 of Implementation Example 2, at least one of the following alternatives can be used to instruct the NCR on the time gap between adjacent beams in the beam mode, taking into account that the beams in the beam mode may not be used sequentially.

[0078] Alt 2.1: Default time gap. The default time gap can indicate that the time interval between all two adjacent beams in beam mode is the same, is predefined, and / or is known by NCR and gNB.

[0079] Alt 2.2: Time gap. The time gap can represent / indicate that the time interval between all two adjacent beams in beam mode is the same. The time gap may be indicated to the NCR by the beams-beams-beams-beams.

[0080] Alt 2.3: Multiple time gaps. Each time gap in the multiple time gaps can be associated with two adjacent beams in beam mode. Multiple time gaps may be indicated to the NCR by the BS.

[0081] Implementation Method Example 3: Signaling of access link beam information and related time information Case 1: Each designated single-beam or multi-beam.

[0082] For each designated single beam or multi-beam, the signaling of beam information and associated time information may have at least one of the following options: The beam information includes a beam index, the definition of which can be determined based on different beam numbering mechanisms as shown in Implementation Example 1.

[0083] Op 1.1: Beam information and associated time information can be indicated in different fields.

[0084] Firstly, with respect to beam information indication, beam information including one or more beams may be indicated by BS to NCR via at least one of the following: a new information element (IE) in the RRC signaling, a new MAC CE signaling, or a DCI signaling.

[0085] Secondly, with respect to relevant time information, relevant time information including one or more time resource information may be communicated by BS to NCR via at least one of the following: new IE in RRC signaling, new MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0086] Thirdly, the BS can instruct the NCR via RRC / MAC CE / DCI messages to associate beam information with time-domain information. This association can mean (1) being used to indicate a beam (e.g., beam information) and an associated time via the same signaling, or (2) having a defined mapping relationship. For example, the BS can instruct a one-to-many (where N>=1) mapping between beam information and time-domain information. As another example, if the NCR supports simultaneous communication with multiple beams, the BS can instruct an N-to-one (where N>=1) mapping between beam information and time-domain information.

[0087] Op 1.2: Beam information and related time information can be linked and indicated. A list containing one or more forwarding resources may be directed by the BS to the NCR via at least one of the following: a new IE in the RRC signaling, a new MAC CE signaling, or a DCI signaling. Each forwarding resource in the list may have at least one of the following: beam information or an associated time resource.

[0088] In some embodiments, a list containing one or more beam information and one associated time information may be communicated by the BS to the NCR via at least one of the following: a new IE in the RRC signaling, a new MAC CE signaling, or a DCI signaling. In this case, the single time resource information may be shared by all beam information in the list, which can represent / indicate that the beams configured in the list are being used simultaneously.

[0089] In some embodiments, a list containing one beam information and one or more time information may be directed by the BS to the NCR via at least one of the following: a new IE in the RRC signaling, a new MAC CE signaling, or a DCI signaling. In this case, only one beam in the list can be applied to all configured time information in the list, which can represent / indicate that the configured beam has multiple applicable time resources.

[0090] Case 2: Each indicated beam mode index. In the case of beam modes, the beamsets (BS) can consist of a list containing one or more beam modes, where each beam mode in the list may contain one or an ordered beam sequence.

[0091] The beams in a beam mode can be represented / identified by a beam index. The definition of a beam index can be determined based on different beam numbering mechanisms shown in Implementation Example 1. Each beam mode in the list may have a corresponding beam mode index. The beams in each beam mode may be the same or different. If all beams in a beam mode are the same, it can be indicated that the beam mode may contain only one beam. In each indication, the BS can directly indicate one or more beam mode indices to the NCR.

[0092] Op 2.1: Beam mode and associated time information can be configured within the same list.

[0093] The list of transfer resources may be constructed by the BS or directed to the NCR. Each transfer resource in the list may include at least one of beam modes or associated time information. The list may contain one or more transfer resources. Each transfer resource in the list may have a corresponding resource index. In some embodiments, all defined beam modes in the list may have the same associated time information. In this case, the list may contain one or more beam modes and time information resources. Resource indexes may be used to represent different beam modes. The BS can directly direct the resource index to the NCR to represent a corresponding beam mode. Associated time information can directly point to a common time information resource defined in the list. In some embodiments, the list may have one beam mode and one or more time information entries, which can represent / indicate that the beam mode may be applied at different times. In this case, the list may contain one or more time information resources and a common beam mode. Resource indexes can point to different time resource information. The BS can directly direct the resource index to the NCR to represent a corresponding time information. Beam information can directly point to common beam modes defined in the list.

[0094] In this case, beam information and associated time information can be jointly indicated by a resource index in the list. At least one of the following methods can be considered for signaling beam information and associated time information.

[0095] Alt 1: The above list may be communicated to the NCR by BS via at least one of the following: new IE in RRC signaling, MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0096] Alt 2: The above list can be configured by BS in NCR via a new IE in RRC signaling. One or more resource indices in the list can be indicated using the new MAC CE signaling or DCI signaling to represent the corresponding beam information and associated time information.

[0097] Alt 3: The above list can be configured by BS to NCR via new MAC CE signaling. DCI signaling can be used to indicate one or more resource indices in the list to represent the corresponding beam information and associated time information.

[0098] Alt 4: The above list can be configured in NCR by BS via a new IE in RRC signaling. A set of resource indices can be pointed to from the list using the new MAC CE signaling. One or more resource indices can be pointed to from the set of resource indices pointed to by the MAC CE signaling using DCI signaling.

[0099] Op 2.2: Beam mode and associated time information can be configured individually. The beam mode and associated time information can be specified individually. Firstly, for beam information, at least one of the following methods can be considered:

[0100] Alt 1:BS can directly direct one or more beam modes to the NCR via at least one of the following: RRC signaling, new MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0101] Alt 2: The BS can indicate a list containing one or more beam modes. Each beam mode in the list may have a beam mode index. The BS can use the beam mode index directly to indicate beam information to the NCR. The BS can also indicate beam information to the NCR using at least one of the following methods:

[0102] Alt 2.1: The above list may be communicated to the NCR by the BS via at least one of the following: new IE in RRC signaling, MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0103] Alt 2.2: The above list can be configured in NCR by BS via a new IE in RRC signaling. One or more beam mode indices in the list can be indicated using the new MAC CE signaling or DCI signaling to represent the corresponding beam information.

[0104] Alt 2.3: The above list can be configured by BS in NCR via new MAC CE signaling. DCI signaling can be used to indicate one or more beam mode indices in the list to represent the corresponding beam information.

[0105] Alt 2.4: The above list can be configured by BS to NCR via a new IE in RRC signaling. A set of beam mode indices can be indicated from the list using the new MAC CE signaling. One or more beam mode indices from the set of resource indices indicated by the MAC CE signaling can be indicated using DCI signaling.

[0106] Secondly, regarding time information, at least one of the following methods can be considered.

[0107] Alt A:BS can directly direct NCR to one or more time information resources related to the indicated beam information via at least one of the following: new IE in RRC signaling, new MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0108] Alt B:BS can constitute a list containing one or more time information. Each time information in the list may also have a resource index. BS can use the resource index directly to instruct NCR on time information. BS can instruct NCR on time information to be used by an instructed beam using at least one of the following methods:

[0109] Alt B.1: The above list may be communicated to the NCR by the BS via at least one of the following: new IE in RRC signaling, MAC CE signaling, or DCI signaling.

[0110] Alt B.2: The above list can be configured in NCR by BS via a new IE in RRC signaling. One or more time resource indices in the list can be indicated using the new MAC CE signaling or DCI signaling to represent the corresponding time information.

[0111] Alt B.3: The above list can be configured in NCR by BS via new MAC CE signaling. DCI signaling may be used to indicate one or more time resource indices in the list to represent the corresponding time information.

[0112] Alt B.4: The above list can be configured in NCR by BS via a new IE in RRC signaling. A set of time resource indices can be indicated from the list using the new MAC CE signaling. DCI signaling may be used to indicate one or more time resource indices from the set of time resource indices indicated by the MAC CE signaling.

[0113] The beam system (BS) can instruct the NCR (Natural Critical Research) to provide beam information (e.g., beam modes) and associated time information within the same signaling. In some embodiments, the BS can instruct beam information and associated time information across different signalings. For example, the BS can configure a beam mode list and a time information list for the NCR within the same IE (Internet Entry) in the RRC signaling. The BS can use MAC CE signaling directly to instruct the NCR to provide beam mode indices and time resource indices to represent beam information and associated time information. For example, the BS can configure a beam mode list and a time information list for the NCR within the same IE (Internet Entry) in the RRC signaling. The BS can use a first MAC CE signaling to instruct a set of beam mode indices from the beam mode list, and a second MAC CE to instruct a set of time resource indices from the time information list. The beam scientist (BS) can use DCI signaling to specify a beam mode index from a set of beam information indicated by a first MAC CE signaling and a time resource index from a set of time information indicated by a second MAC CE signaling. For example, the BS can configure a beam mode list in the RRC signaling. The BS can then use MAC CE signaling to specify the beam mode index and its associated time resource information.

[0114] Case 3: Detailed signaling design of beam information and associated time information. DCI signaling may be used to indicate beam information and associated time information. The beam information indicated by DCI may include at least one of the following:

[0115] (1) Beam Index: The definition of the beam index can be determined based on the beam numbering mechanism shown in Implementation Example 1. In some embodiments, if the beams of the NCR access link are of different types, the definition of the beam index may include beam flag information, which is used to distinguish whether the indicated index is used for a first type beam or a second type beam.

[0116] (2) Beam mode index (3) Bit flags: Bit flags may be used to distinguish whether the index indicated in DCI refers to a beam index or a beam mode index.

[0117] (4) Number of each indicated beam: If the number of each indicated beam is 1, the DCI may indicate that a single beam index is indicated; if the number of each indicated beam is greater than 1, the indication may indicate that multiple beams are indicated, which means that the DCI may indicate beam mode indices.

[0118] In some embodiments, the beam information indicated by DCI may include at least one of the following pieces of information:

[0119] (1) The number of beams indicated for each beam. If the beam count value is 1, it may indicate that only a single beam index is indicated in DCI. If the beam count value is greater than 1, it may indicate that multiple beams are indicated and the index indicated in DCI is a beam mode index. The bit width may depend on the maximum number of beams in the beam mode.

[0120] (2) Index information. If the number of each designated beam is 1, the designated index information may be a beam index. The definition of the beam index can be determined based on different numbering mechanisms in Implementation Example 1. The bit width may depend on the beam layout and beam numbering mechanism of the NCR.

[0121] If the number of each indicated beam is greater than 1, the indicated index information may be a beam mode index. A beam mode list can be defined in RRC signaling. The selected beam mode index can be indicated in DCI. Thus, the bit width may depend on the number of beam modes in the list.

[0122] For detailed signaling design of DCI, at least one of the following methods can be considered.

[0123] Op 3.1: Beam information and associated time information can be indicated in the same field in DCI. Beam information may be one or more beam indices or one or more beam mode indices. The definition of the beam index can be determined based on different numbering mechanisms in Implementation Example 1.

[0124] Since beam information and associated time information are indicated in the same list, DCI signaling can consider indicating the beam and associated time information simultaneously in the same field. For example, as described in Option 2.1 of Case 2, beam information and associated time information can be organized in the same list. A resource index can be used to indicate the corresponding beam information and time information simultaneously. For the specific design of DCI signaling, at least one of the following alternatives can be considered.

[0125] Alt 1: A new DCI format with a separate Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) can be defined for the NCR-Fwd to indicate one or more beam information and associated time information used for access links. When the DCI is scrambled by the NCR-MT's RNTI, the NCR-MT can communicate with the BS (e.g., the UE with allocated time-frequency resources, MCS and / or other control parameters). When the DCI is scrambled by the NCR-Fwd's RNTI, the NCR-MT can decode the new DCI format of the NCR-Fwd and control the amplification and transmission operations of the NCR-Fwd accordingly. The new DCI format for NCR'Fwd may include at least one of the following: (1) beam information for a backhaul link indicating beam information for a backhaul link (e.g., TCI status ID); (2) time resource information for a backhaul link indicating time information associated with the indicated beam information; (3) time information associated with beam information for an access link, simultaneously indicating time information associated with beam information (e.g., resource index shown in Option 2.1 of Case 2) using the fields; (4) frequency resource information indicating frequency resources used by NCR-Fwd; and (5) panel resource information indicating panel information used by NCR-Fwd.

[0126] Alt 2: A new field can be added to DCI signaling to simultaneously indicate access link beam information and associated time information.

[0127] Alt 3: One existing field in the DCI signaling can be used to simultaneously indicate beam information and associated time information for an access link. One existing bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether the field is used for legacy applications or to indicate beam and time information. For example, the current "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" in the DCI signaling can be reinterpreted to indicate beam information and associated time information, where the first bit in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" can be used as a flag. If the first bit is set to 0, it can indicate that the remaining bits in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" are used to indicate frequency information for NCR-MT. If the first bit is set to 1, it can indicate that the remaining bits in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" are used to indicate beam information and associated time information for an access link. For example, the current "Time Domain Resource Allocation", "Modulation and Encoding Scheme", or "Bandwidth Part Indicator" can be reinterpreted, where one bit of the field can be used as a flag.

[0128] Alt 4: An existing field in the DCI signaling can be used to simultaneously indicate the beam information and associated time information of an access link. A new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for legacy purposes or to indicate the beam and time information of an access link. For example, the current "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" in the DCI signaling can be reinterpreted to indicate the beam information and associated time information, and a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling as a flag. If the new bit is set to 0, it can indicate that the "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" field is used to indicate the modulation and encoding information for NCR-MT. If the new bit is set to 1, it can indicate that the "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" field is used to indicate the beam information and associated time information of an access link.

[0129] Alt 5: The current "Transmit Configuration Instruction" field can be reinterpreted to indicate the beam information and associated time information for the access link. One bit or a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for control link beam information or for access link beam and time information. In some embodiments, one bit or a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for backhaul link beam information or for access link beam and time information.

[0130] Op 3.2: Beam information and associated time information can each be indicated in different fields in DCI. Beam information may be one or more beam indices or one or more beam mode indices. The definition of beam indices can be determined based on different numbering mechanisms in Implementation Example 1.

[0131] Since beam information (e.g., beam index or beam mode index) and associated time information are indicated by different fields in DCI signaling, separate fields can be considered for indicating beam information and for indicating time information in DCI.

[0132] (1) Firstly, to indicate the beam information of the access link, at least one of the following methods can be considered:

[0133] Alt 1: A new field can be added to DCI signaling to indicate beam information for the access link.

[0134] Alt 2: One existing field in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate access link beam information. One existing bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether the field is used for legacy applications or for access link beam indication. For example, the current "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" in the DCI signaling can be reinterpreted to indicate access link beam information, where the first bit in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" can be used as a flag. If the first bit is set to 0, it can indicate that the remaining bits in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" are used to indicate frequency information for NCR-MT. If the first bit is set to 1, it can indicate that the remaining bits in "Frequency Domain Resource Allocation" are used to indicate access link beam information. For example, the current "Time Domain Resource Allocation", "Modulation and Encoding Scheme", or "Bandwidth Part Indicator" can also be reinterpreted, where one bit of the field can be used as a flag.

[0135] Alt 3: An existing field in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate beam information for an access link. A new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for legacy applications or for beam indication of an access link. For example, the current "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" in the DCI signaling can be reinterpreted to indicate beam information for an access link, and a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling as a flag. If the new bit is set to 0, it indicates that the "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" field is used to indicate modulation and encoding information for NCR-MT. If the new bit is set to 1, it indicates that the "Modulation and Encoding Scheme" field is used to indicate beam information for an access link.

[0136] Alt 4: The current "Transmit Configuration Instruction" field can be reinterpreted to indicate access link beam information. One bit or a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for control link beam information or access link beam instruction. In some embodiments, one bit or a new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the field is used for backhaul link beam information or access link beam instruction.

[0137] (2) Secondly, with respect to the relevant time information of the access link beam, at least one of the following methods can be considered:

[0138] Alt 1: A new field can be added to DCI signaling to indicate relevant time information for the indicated beam of an access link.

[0139] Alt 2: The current "Time Domain Resource Allocation" field in DCI signaling can be reused to indicate the relevant time information for the designated beam of the access link. One bit in DCI signaling may be used to indicate whether the "Time Domain Resource Allocation" field is used for NCR-MT time information or for the relevant time information of the access link. For example, the first bit in the "Time Domain Resource Allocation" field can be used as a flag. If the first bit is set to 0, it can indicate that the "Time Domain Resource Allocation" field is used to designate the time resources of the NCR-MT. If the first bit is set to 1, it can indicate that the "Time Domain Resource Allocation" field is used to designate the relevant time information for the beam of the access link.

[0140] Alt 3: The current "Time-Domain Resource Allocation" field in the DCI signaling can be reused to indicate the relevant time information for the designated beam of the access link. A new bit can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate whether the "Time-Domain Resource Allocation" field is used for NCR-MT time information or for the relevant time information of the access link. For example, if the new bit is set to 0, it can indicate that the "Time-Domain Resource Allocation" field is used to designate time resources for NCR-MT. If the new bit is set to 1, it can indicate that the "Time-Domain Resource Allocation" field is used to designate the relevant time information for the beam of the access link.

[0141] (3) In some embodiments, a new DCI format having a separate Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) can be defined for the NCR-Fwd to indicate one or more beam indices used for access links. When the DCI is scrambled by the RNTI of the NCR-MT, the NCR-MT can communicate with the BS (e.g., the UE having allocated time-frequency resources, MCS and / or other control parameters). When the DCI is scrambled by the RNTI of the NCR-Fwd, the NCR-MT can decode the new DCI format of the NCR-Fwd and control the amplification and transmission operations of the NCR-Fwd accordingly. The new DCI format for NCR-Fwd may include at least one of the following: (1) backhaul link beam information indicating the beam information of the backhaul link (e.g., TCI status ID); (2) backhaul link time resource information indicating the time information associated with the indicated beam information on the backhaul link; (3) access link beam information indicating the beam information of the access link (e.g., beam index or beam mode index); (4) access link time resource information indicating the time information associated with the indicated beam on the access link; (5) frequency resource information indicating the frequency resources used by NCR-Fwd; and (6) panel resource information indicating the panel information used by NCR-Fwd.

[0142] Implementation Method Example 4: Beam Instruction for NCR Backhaul Link In some embodiments, a set of Transmit Configuration Instruction (TCI) states configured by RRC signaling may be shared and used for both the control link and the backhaul link. MAC CE signaling may be used to activate a subset of TCI states from the TCI state configuration in the RRC signaling. The subset of TCI states activated by MAC CE signaling may be shared and used for beam instruction on the control link and the backhaul link. The value of N may be predefined for all NCRs, or the value of N may differ depending on the NCR. The value of N can be determined based on the capabilities of the NCR-MT. DCI signaling may be used to select TCI states from the subset of TCI states activated by MAC CE. In this case, the number of TCI states in the subset of activated TCI states (e.g., the first N (N≧1) TCI states) can be predefined for the BS and NCR for use in beam instruction on the backhaul link. In some embodiments, the number of TCI states (e.g., the first N (N≧1) TCI states) within the subset of activated TCI states may be instructed to the NCR for use in beam direction of the backhaul link. Thus, when the NCR receives selected TCI states instructed by DCI, the NCR can determine whether the selected TCI states belong to the TCI states applicable to the backhaul link. If the selected TCI state ID belongs to the TCI states applicable to the backhaul link, the selected TCI states may be used for beam direction of both the backhaul link and the control link. If the selected TCI state ID does not belong to the TCI states applicable to the backhaul link, the selected TCI states may be used only for beam direction of the control link. For example, in some embodiments, there may be eight TCI states activated by MAC CE signaling.BS can instruct NCR that only the first four TCI states activated by MAC CE can be used by the backhaul link. In this case, if the TCI field in DCI is 2, it can instruct that the TCI states can be configured simultaneously to be used for beam indication on both the C-link and the backhaul link. If the TCI field in DCI is 5, it can instruct that the selected TCI states can only be applied to beam indication on the C-link.

[0143] In some embodiments, a set of TCI states configured for a control link by RRC signaling may be used for a backhaul link. The number of TCI states (e.g., the first N (N≧1) TCI states) in the TCI state set configured by the RRC can be predefined for the BS and NCR for use in beam indication of the backhaul link. The value of N can be predefined for all NCRs, or the value of N may differ depending on the NCR. The value of N can be determined based on the capabilities of the NCR-MT. In some embodiments, the number of TCI states (e.g., the first N (N≧1) TCI states) in the TCI state set configured by the RRC for use in beam indication of the backhaul link may be indicated to the NCR by the BS. In this case, when the NCR receives the selected TCI states indicated by DCI, the NCR can verify whether the selected TCI states belong to a TCI state applicable to the backhaul link. If the selected TCI state ID belongs to a TCI state applicable to the backhaul link, the selected TCI states may be used for beam indication of the backhaul link and the control link. If the selected TCI state ID does not belong to a TCI state applicable to the backhaul link, the selected TCI state may be used only for beam indication of the control link. For example, RRC signaling can configure 20 different TCI states, and BS can instruct NCR that only the first 8 TCI states centrally configured by RRC can be used by the backhaul link. In this case, upon receiving the instructed TCI state from DCI, NCR can determine whether the instructed TCI state belongs to a TCI state applicable to the backhaul link.

[0144] Implementation Method Example 5: HARQ-ACK feedback of PDCCH carrying side control information Side control information includes at least one of the following: beam information, on / off information, power control information, timing information, or UL / DL time-division duplex (TDD) configuration. Side control information may be indicated by DCI or transmitted from BS to NCR. HARQ-ACK feedback to DCI may be required to ensure the reliability of side control information. At least one of the following options may be considered regarding when and where to send HARQ-ACK feedback from DCI carrying side control information.

[0145] Op 1: BS can transmit DCI format carrying side control information ending in time slot n. NCR can report HARQ-ACK feedback information by the PUCCH transmission closest to time slot n.

[0146] Op 2: The BS may transmit DCI format carrying side control information ending in time slot n. The NCR may report HARQ-ACK feedback information by PUCCH transmission in time slot n+k, where k may be a time offset value provided to the NCR by the BS.

[0147] Op 3: BS may transmit DCI format carrying side control information ending in time slot n, and NCR may report HARQ-ACK feedback information by PUCCH transmission in time slot n+L, where L may be provided by the current "PDSCH-to-HARQ_feedback timing indicator" field in DCI.

[0148] It should be understood that one or more of the features in the above implementation examples are not specific to any particular implementation example, and can be combined in any way (for example, in any priority and / or order, simultaneously, or in other ways).

[0149] Figure 4 shows a flowchart for identifying a beam and associated time according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 400 can be implemented using one or more elements and apparatus described in detail herein in relation to Figures 1 and 2. Overall, in some embodiments, Method 400 may be performed by network nodes. According to embodiments, additional, fewer, or different operations may be performed in Method 400. At least one aspect of the operation is toward a system, method, apparatus, or computer-readable medium.

[0150] At least one aspect relates to the following systems, methods, devices, or computer-readable media:

[0151] A network node (e.g., a secondary node (SN)) can receive beam information from a radio communication node (e.g., a BS) used for a first transport link (e.g., an access link) between the radio communication device and the network node. The beam information can be associated with multiple beams. The beams used for the network node on the first transport link may include a first type beam and a second type beam. The beam information may include at least one of a beam index, a beam mode index, a bit flag for indicating the beam index or beam mode index, and a beam count. The beam count may be used to indicate the number of beams in each indication.

[0152] In some embodiments, the beam index may include at least one of the following: an index for a first type of beam, an index for a second type of beam, or a bit flag used to distinguish between a first type of beam and a second type of beam.

[0153] In some embodiments, a network node can receive a list from a wireless communication node. The list may include one or more beam information and one or more associated time information. The list can be communicated to the network node via at least one of RRC signaling, MAC CE, and DCI signaling. A new field can be added to the DCI signaling to communicate beam information and associated time information simultaneously. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to communicate beam information and associated time information simultaneously.

[0154] In some embodiments, one of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for beam information and associated time information. Network nodes can be instructed on the beam's associated time information.

[0155] In some embodiments, beam information and associated time information can be instructed to network nodes via the same or different signaling. A new field can be added to the DCI signaling to instruct beam information for the first transport link. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to instruct beam information for the first transport link. One of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to distinguish and indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for beam information for the first transport link.

[0156] In some embodiments, a new field can be added to the DCI signaling to indicate the relevant time information for the first transport link. One of the existing fields in the DCI signaling can be reused to indicate the relevant time information for the first transport link. One of the existing bits in the DCI signaling or a newly added bit in the DCI signaling can be used to indicate whether an existing field is used for legacy purposes or for the relevant time information for the first transport link.

[0157] In some embodiments, a wireless communication node can transmit beam indications for a first transmission link used between the wireless communication device and a network node to the network node. The beam indications can be associated with multiple beams.

[0158] While various embodiments of the present solution have been described above, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented only as examples and not as limiting. Similarly, various figures may depict exemplary architectures or configurations provided so that those skilled in the art can understand the exemplary features and functions of the present solution. However, such those skilled in the art will understand that the solution is not limited to the exemplary architectures or configurations shown and can be realized using various alternative architectures and configurations. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, one or more features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment described herein. Therefore, the scope and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments.

[0159] It should also be understood that any reference in this specification to elements using names such as "first," "second," etc., does not generally limit the number or order of these elements. Conversely, these names may be used in this specification as a convenient means of distinguishing two or more elements or instances of elements. Therefore, references to the first and second elements do not mean that only two elements may be adopted, or that the first element must precede the second element in any particular manner.

[0160] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that information and signals can be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, commands, instructions, information, signals, bits, and symbols, which may be referenced in the above description, may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0161] Those skilled in the art will also understand that any of the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, processors, devices, circuits, methods, and functions described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented by electronic hardware (e.g., digital implementation methods, analog implementation methods, or a combination of both), firmware, various forms of programs or design code of merge commands (which may be referred to herein as “software” or “software modules” for convenience), or any combination thereof. To illustrate this interchangeability of hardware, firmware, and software, various exemplary elements, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps are described above in general terms of their function. Whether such functions are implemented as hardware, firmware, or software, or as a combination thereof, depends on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. For each specific application, those skilled in the art can implement the functions described in various ways, but such implementation decisions do not constitute a departure from the scope of this disclosure.

[0162] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, devices, elements, and circuits described herein may be implemented and performed within an integrated circuit (IC), which may include a general-purpose processor, a digital processor (DSP), a signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device or any combination thereof. The logic blocks, modules, and circuits may further include antennas and / or transceivers for communicating with various elements in a network or device. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, or state machine. The processor may further be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other suitable configuration, to perform the functions described herein.

[0163] When implemented in software, the functionality may be stored as one or more commands or codes on a computer-readable medium. Therefore, steps of the methods or algorithms disclosed herein may be implemented as software stored on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium includes both computer storage media and communication media, and includes any medium that can facilitate the transfer of computer programs or code from one location to another. The storage medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer. Such computer-readable media may, but are not limited to, include, for example, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage devices, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium used to store desired program code in the form of commands or data structures and accessible by a computer.

[0164] In this specification, the term “module” as used herein refers to software, firmware, hardware, and any combination thereof used to perform the relevant functions described herein. Furthermore, for the purposes of discussion, various modules are described as discrete modules, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that two or more modules can be combined to form a single module that performs the relevant functions, as shown in the embodiments of this solution.

[0165] Furthermore, embodiments of this solution may employ memory or other storage devices and communication components. For the purpose of clarification, it should be understood that the above description illustrates embodiments of this solution with reference to different functional units and processors. However, it will become clear that any preferred allocation of functions between different functional units, processing logic elements, or domains may be used without deviating from this solution. For example, functions indicated to be performed by separate processing logic elements or controllers may be performed by the same processing logic element or controller. Thus, references to specific functional units are merely references to preferred devices for providing the described functions and do not indicate a strict logical or physical structure or organization.

[0166] Those skilled in the art will readily understand the various modifications to the embodiments described herein, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, as set forth in the following claims, but should be given the broadest scope consistent with the novel features and principles disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A wireless communication method, The network node receives a first signaling signal from the wireless communication node, The network node receives a second signaling from the wireless communication node, The first signaling includes a list of transfer resources, each of which includes a beam index and a time resource associated with the beam index. The second signaling indicates, from the list of transfer resources, at least one transfer resource to be used for the access link between the wireless communication device and the network node, A wireless communication method wherein the time resource includes a start time and a duration, the start time of the time resource is indicated by a start symbol and a start slot, and the duration of the time resource is indicated by the number of symbols.

2. The wireless communication method according to claim 1, further comprising the network node receiving the first signaling via RRC signaling, and the network node receiving the second signaling via MAC CE signaling.

3. The wireless communication method according to claim 1, wherein the second signaling further indicates a beam index associated with at least one transfer resource.

4. A wireless communication method, The wireless communication node transmits a first signaling signal to the network node, The wireless communication node transmits a second signaling to the network node, The first signaling includes a list of transfer resources, each of which includes a beam index and a time resource associated with the beam index. The second signaling indicates, from the list of transfer resources, at least one transfer resource to be used for the access link between the wireless communication device and the network node, A wireless communication method wherein the time resource includes a start time and a duration, the start time of the time resource is indicated by a start symbol and a start slot, and the duration of the time resource is indicated by the number of symbols.

5. A wireless communication device comprising at least one processor and memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to read code from the memory and to implement a method comprising a network node receiving a first signaling from a wireless communication node and the network node receiving a second signaling from the wireless communication node, The first signaling includes a list of transfer resources, each of which includes a beam index and a time resource associated with the beam index. The second signaling indicates, from the list of transfer resources, at least one transfer resource to be used for the access link between the wireless communication device and the network node, A wireless communication device wherein the time resource includes a start time and a duration, the start time of the time resource is indicated by a start symbol and a start slot, and the duration of the time resource is indicated by the number of symbols.

6. The wireless communication method according to claim 4, further comprising the wireless communication node transmitting the first signaling via RRC signaling, and the wireless communication node transmitting the second signaling via MAC CE signaling.

7. The wireless communication method according to claim 4, wherein the second signaling further indicates a beam index associated with at least one transfer resource.

8. The wireless communication device according to claim 5, wherein the wireless communication device is further configured such that the network node receives the first signaling via RRC signaling and the network node receives the second signaling via MAC CE signaling.

9. The wireless communication device according to claim 5, wherein the second signaling further indicates a beam index associated with at least one transmission resource.

10. A wireless communication device comprising at least one processor and memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to read code from the memory and to implement a method comprising a wireless communication node transmitting a first signaling to a network node and the wireless communication node transmitting a second signaling to the network node, The first signaling includes a list of transfer resources, each of which includes a beam index and a time resource associated with the beam index. The second signaling indicates, from the list of transfer resources, at least one transfer resource to be used for the access link between the wireless communication device and the network node, A wireless communication device wherein the time resource includes a start time and a duration, the start time of the time resource is indicated by a start symbol and a start slot, and the duration of the time resource is indicated by the number of symbols.

11. The wireless communication device according to claim 10, wherein the wireless communication node transmits the first signaling via RRC signaling and the wireless communication node transmits the second signaling via MAC CE signaling.

12. The wireless communication device according to claim 10, wherein the second signaling further indicates a beam index associated with at least one transmission resource.

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