Wireless energy transmission

Abstract

Certain examples provide an apparatus (10), configured for operation as a Distributed Unit (220), DU, of a disaggregated access node (120) comprising at least a Central Unit (210), CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: means (11) for receiving, from the CU, configuration information (402) for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions (405) for transferring energy to one or more devices (300); means for entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and means for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

Description

[0001] WIRELESS ENERGY TRANSMISSION

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] Examples of the present disclosure relate to wireless energy transmission; in particular: apparatuses, methods, systems, and computer programs for transmitting wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices. Some examples, though without prejudice to the foregoing, relate to Radio Frequency, RF, power transfer to Ambient Internet of Things, AloT, or Energy Harvesting, EH, devices using a distributed Radio Access Network, RAN, architecture.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] The operation of certain devices, which have no or limited local energy storage (not least such as Ambient Internet of Things, AloT, devices or Energy Harvesting, EH, devices), may rely on / require wireless energy transmission / RF power transfer. Type C energy harvesting devices harvest energy from an RF source. The RF source can be a non-3GPP source and / or a 3GPP source such as a wireless energy transmission from access nodes (e.g. gNBs) of a Radio Access Network, RAN.

[0006] Conventional systems for transmitting wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to devices (such as AloT devices / EH User Equipment, UE) are not always optimal.

[0007] In some circumstances it can be desirable to transmit wireless energy transmissions via access nodes having a split architecture, e.g. disaggregated gNBs comprising a Central Unit, CU, and one or more Distributed Units, DUs. In some circumstances it can be desirable to transmit wireless energy transmissions via access nodes without compromising Quality of Experience, QoE, of other UEs in the RAN.

[0008] The listing or discussion of any prior-published document or any background in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the document or background is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge. One or more aspects / examples of the present disclosure may or may not address one or more of the background issues.

[0009] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0010] The scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the invention is set out by the claims.

[0011] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there are provided examples as claimed in the appended claims. Any examples and features described in this specification that do not fall underthe scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various embodiments of the invention. According to at least some examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; means for entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and means for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0012] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method comprising: receiving, at an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0013] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a chipset comprising processing circuitry configured to perform the above-mentioned method.

[0014] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a module, circuitry, device and / or system comprising means for performing the above- mentioned method.

[0015] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a computer program comprising instructions, which when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving, at an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information. According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: receive, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; enter, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0016] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, causes at least the following to be performed: receiving, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0017] According to at least some examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: means for sending, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; and means for receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; means for entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and means for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0018] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method comprising: sending, by an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0019] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a chipset comprising processing circuitry configured to perform the above-mentioned method.

[0020] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a module, circuitry, device and / or system comprising means for performing the above- mentioned method.

[0021] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a computer program comprising instructions, which when executed by an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, cause the apparatus to perform: sending, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0022] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, the apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: send, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receive, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; enter, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0023] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, causes at least the following to be performed: sending, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0024] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method of providing and / or manufacturing an apparatus and / or system as described herein.

[0025] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method of using an apparatus and / or system as described herein.

[0026] The following portion of this 'Brief Summary’ section describes various features that can be features of any of the examples described in the foregoing portion of the 'Brief Summary’ section mutatis mutandis. The description of a function should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function, or any instructions stored in at least one memory that, when executed by at least one processor, cause an apparatus to perform that function.

[0027] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus further comprises: means for applying the configuration information; and means for sending, to the CU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied.

[0028] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving, from the CU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied by the CU.

[0029] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus further comprises means for monitoring one or more energy transfer requirements for the one or more devices; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus based at least in part on the monitored energy transfer requirements for the one or more devices.

[0030] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus further comprises means for determining information indicating a level of traffic at the apparatus; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus based at least in part on the determined information.

[0031] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of a time period indicating how long the apparatus is to be in the wireless energy transmission mode; and transitioning out of the wireless energy transmission mode is based at least in part on the indicated time period.

[0032] In some but not necessarily all examples, the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on an inactivity timer of the apparatus.

[0033] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for the one or more wireless energy transmissions; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus using the indicated one or more DL resources.

[0034] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for DL data transmission, and one or more wireless DL data transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus using the indicated one or more DL resources.

[0035] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information comprises an indication of: a first set of one or more DL resources for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions, and a second set of one or more DL resources for transmitting one or more DL data transmissions; and the means for transmitting is configured to transmit, whilst in the wireless energy transmission mode: the one or more wireless energy transmissions using the first set of one or more DL resources, and the one or more DL data transmissions using the second set of one or more DL resources.

[0036] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises: an indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are fixed, or an indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are permitted to be dynamically reallocated, by the apparatus, between use for wireless energy transmission and use for DL data transmission.

[0037] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving, from the CU, an indication of one or more identifiers of one or more DUs, and wherein the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more DUs.

[0038] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises: an indication of one or more spatial resources, and / or an indication of one or beam identifiers; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on the indicated one or more spatial resources and / or the indicated of one or beam identifiers.

[0039] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more identifiers of the one or more devices; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are performed based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more devices.

[0040] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information is conveyed via at least one of the following: an F1 interface; an F1 interface message; and a configuration update message.

[0041] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information comprises: at least one of: an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources that the apparatus can use for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions; an indication of one or more DL resources, previously configured for Time Division Duplex, TDD, DL data transmissions, that the apparatus can use for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions; an explicit indication; a flag; and a dedicated bit.

[0042] In some but not necessarily all examples, the configuration information is associated with second configuration information received by a second apparatus configured for operation as a DU of a disaggregated access node; and wherein at least one of the configuration information and the second configuration information are configured so as to enable a coordination of the one or more wireless energy transmissions transmitted by the apparatus and second apparatus. In some but not necessarily all examples, the one or more devices comprises one of more of the following:

[0043] User Equipment, UE; a Reduced Capability, RedCap, device; an Internet of Things, AloT, device; an Ambient Internet of Things, AloT, device; and an Energy Harvesting, EH, device.

[0044] In some but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus is a DU of an Integrated Access and Backhaul, IAB, node.

[0045] While the above examples of the disclosure and optional features are described separately, it is to be understood that their provision in all possible combinations and permutations is contained within the disclosure. It is to be understood that various examples of the disclosure can comprise any or all of the features described in respect of other examples of the disclosure, and vice versa. Also, it is to be appreciated that any one or more or all of the features, in any combination, may be implemented by / comprised in / performable by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions as desired, and as appropriate.

[0046] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0048] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example of a radio telecommunications network suitable for use with examples of the subject matter described herein;

[0049] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example of a disaggregated access node suitable for use with examples of the subject matter described herein;

[0050] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a further example of a disaggregated access node suitable for use with examples of the subject matter described herein;

[0051] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an example of a method of the subject matter described herein;

[0052] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an example of another method of the subject matter described herein;

[0053] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a division of downlink resources suitable for use with examples of the subject matter described herein;

[0054] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an example of a further method of the subject matter described herein;

[0055] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an example of a yet further method of the subject matter described herein;

[0056] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates an example of an apparatus in accordance with the subject matter described herein; and

[0057] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates an example of a computer program in accordance with the subject matter described herein. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and views of the figures can be shown schematically or exaggerated in scale in the interest of clarity and conciseness. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid explication. Similar reference numerals are used in the figures to designate similar features. For clarity, all reference numerals are not necessarily displayed in all figures.

[0058] ABBREVIATIONS / DEFINITIONS

[0059] 3GPP 3rd Generation Partnership Project

[0060] 5G 5th Generation

[0061] 5GC 5G Core

[0062] 6G 6th Generation

[0063] AloT Ambient Internet of Things

[0064] CU Centralized Unit

[0065] DL Downlink

[0066] DU Distributed Unit

[0067] EH Energy Harvesting

[0068] IAB Integrated Access and Backhaul loT Internet Of Things

[0069] RAN Radio Access Network

[0070] RF Radio Frequency

[0071] RP Transmission Reception Point

[0072] RRC Radio Resource Control

[0073] UE User Equipment

[0074] UL Uplink

[0075] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example of a network 100 suitable for use with examples of the present disclosure. The network (also referred to as NW) comprises a plurality of network nodes including: terminal nodes 110 (also referred to as User Equipment, UE), access nodes 120 (also referred to as Radio Access Network, RAN, nodes, or base stations), and one or more core network nodes 130. The terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other. The one or more core network nodes 130 may, in some but not necessarily all examples, communicate with each other. The one or more access nodes 120 may, in some but not necessarily all examples, communicate with each other.

[0077] The network 100 is, in this example, a radio telecommunications network, i.e. a RAN, in which at least some of the terminal nodes 1 10 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other using transmission / reception of radio waves. The network / RAN 100 may be a cellular network comprising a plurality of cells 122 each served by an access node 120. The access nodes 120 comprise cellular radio transceivers. The terminal nodes 110 comprise cellular radio transceivers.

[0078] In the particular example illustrated and discussed below, the network 100 is a New Radio, NR, network of the Third Generation Partnership Project, 3GPP, and its fifth generation, 5G, technology. In other examples, the network 100 may be a network beyond 5G, for example a next generation (i.e. sixth generation, 6G) Radio Network that is currently under development (i.e. an evolution of the NR network and its 5G technology).

[0079] The interfaces between the terminal nodes 110 and the access nodes 120 are radio interfaces 124 (e.g., Uu interfaces). The interfaces between the access nodes 120 and one or more core nodes 130 are backhaul interfaces 128 (e.g., S1 and / or Next Generation, NG, interfaces).

[0080] Depending on the exact deployment scenario, the access nodes 120 may be RAN nodes such as NG-RAN nodes. NG-RAN nodes may be gNodeBs, gNBs, that provide NG user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE. The gNBs connected by means of NG interfaces to a 5G Core (5GC), more specifically to an Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF, by means of an NG Control Plane, NG-C, interface and to a User Plane Function, UPF, by means of an NG User Plane, NG-U, interface. The access nodes 120 may be interconnected with each other by means of Xn interfaces 126.

[0081] The cellular network 100 may be configured to operate in licensed frequency bands, or unlicensed frequency bands (not least such as: unlicensed bands that rely upon a transmitting device to sense the radio resources / medium before commencing transmission, such as via a Listen Before Talk, LBT, procedure; and a 60GHz unlicensed band where beamforming may be required in order to achieve required coverage).

[0082] The access nodes 120 may be deployed in an NG standalone operation / scenario. The access nodes 120 may be deployed in a NG non-standalone operation / scenario. The access nodes 120 may be deployed in a Carrier Aggregation, CA, operation / scenario. The access nodes 120 may be deployed in a Dual Connectivity, DC, operation / scenario, i.e., Multi Radio Access Technology - Dual Connectivity, MR-DC, or NR-DC. The access nodes 120 may be deployed in a Multi Connectivity, MC, operation / scenario.

[0083] In such non-standalone / dual connectivity deployments, the access nodes 120 may be interconnected to each other by means of X2 or Xn interfaces, and connected to an Evolved Packet Core, EPC, by means of an S1 interface or to the 5GC by means of a NG interface.

[0084] The terminal nodes 110 are network elements in the network that terminate the user side of the radio link. They are devices allowing access to network services. The terminal nodes 110 may be referred to as User Equipment, UE, mobile terminals or mobile stations. The term 'User Equipment’ may be used to designate mobile equipment comprising means, such as a smart card, for authentication / encryption etc such as a Subscriber Identity Module, SIM. A SIM / SIM card can be a memory chip, a module, or a Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM).

[0085] The access nodes 120 are network elements in the network responsible for radio transmission and reception in one or more cells 122 to or from the terminal nodes 110. The access nodes 120 are the network termination of a radio link. The gNB may host one or more Transmission Reception Points, TRPs.

[0086] An access node 120 may be implemented as a single network equipment, or have a split architecture that is disaggregated / distributed over two or more RAN nodes, such as a Central Unit, CU, a Distributed Unit, DU, a Remote Radio Head-end, RRH, using different functional-split architectures and different interfaces.

[0087] In the following description, a terminal node may be referred to simply as UE 110. In the following description, an access node, a Radio Access Network, RAN, node, a gNB or a TRP may be referred to simply as a network node 120.

[0088] In some examples, the term 'User Equipment’ can be used to designate a location / position tag, a hyper / smart, a hyper / smart sensor, or a mobile equipment comprising circuitry embedded as part of the user equipment for authentication / encryption such as a software SIM. Terminal node 110 functionalities may be performed also by Mobile Termination, MT, part of an Integrated Access and Backhaul, IAB, node.

[0089] In the following description, the term 'User Equipment’ can be used to designate one or more of: a Reduced Capability, RedCap, device; an Internet of Things, AloT, device; an Ambient Internet of Things, AloT, device; and an Energy Harvesting, EH, device.

[0090] AloT devices are a classification / category of devices or UEs that have lower complexity, data rate, coverage, cost, and energy consumption than Narrow Band loT, NB-loT, devices / enhanced Machine Type Communication, eMTC, devices. An AloT device is an loT device, powered by Energy Harvesting, EH, that is either battery-less or has limited energy storage capability (i.e., using a capacitor) and the energy is provided through the harvesting of radio waves, light, motion, heat, or any other power source that could be seen suitable.

[0091] In some examples, the term 'User Equipment’ can be used to designate a type A AloT device, a type B AloT device, or a type C AloT device, wherein:

[0092] AloT device type A is characterised by having: no energy storage and no independent signal generation capability (in this regard transmission is effected via backscattering transmission);

[0093] AloT device type B is characterised by having: energy storage and no independent signal generation capability (in this regard transmission is effected via backscattering transmission; however, stored energy can be used in the amplification of the reflected signal); AloT device type C is characterised by having: energy storage, independent signal generation (i.e. having an active RF component for transmission). Further, a (sub)category Device type C2 is characterised as an active device with full capabilities to perform both uplink and downlink network registration, as well as Mobile Originating, MO, and Mobile Terminating, MT, operations.

[0094] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example of a split gNB architecture. The split gNB architecture allows for an implementation of a distributed RAN architecture where a CU can reside in a centralized server and be connected to a number of DUs deployed at cell sites.

[0095] In the example illustrated, an access node / gNB 120 has a disaggregated (split) architecture in that it comprises a centralized unit, gNB-CU, 210 and one or more distributed units, gNB- DU, 220. The gNB-CU is a logical node configured to host a Radio Resource Connection, RRC, layer and Packet Data Convergence Protocol, PDCP, for Control Plane, CP, protocols of the gNB 120. The gNB-CU also hosts Service Data Adaptation Protocol, SDAP, and Packet Data Convergence Protocol, PDCP, for User Plane, UP, protocols of the gNB 120. The gNB-CU controls the operation of the one or more gNB-DUs. The gNB-DU is a logical node configured to host the lower L2 protocol layers of the access node 120: Radio Link Control, RLC, protocol layer, Medium Access Control, MAC, layer and Physical, PHY, layer. Operation of the gNB-DU is partly controlled by the gNB-CU.

[0096] The gNBs (CUs) can communicate via an Xn interface. The gNB-CU 210 and a gNB-DU 220 communicate via a dedicated interface, the F1 interface. The F1 interface connects the gNB-CU 210, hosting the higher CP / UP protocol layers, to the gNB-DU 220, hosting the lower CP / UP protocol layers. The F1 interface functions are divided into F1 -Control Plane functions, F1 -C, and F1 -User Plane functions, F1 -U. The gNB-CU-CP and gNB-DU are interconnected with each other by means of an F1 -C interface. The gNB-CU-UP and gNB-DU 220 are interconnected with each other by means of an F1 -U interface.

[0097] The gNB-CU 210 may be further separated into a Control Plane, CP part (gNB-CU-CP - not shown) and a User Plane, UP, part (gNB-CU-UP - not shown). The gNB-CU-CP is a logical node hosting the control plane part of the gNB-CU, and terminating the RRC and PDCP protocol layers of the control plane while passing transparently Non Access Stratum, NAS, messages from / to the UEs to / from the 5GC 130. The gNB-CU-UP is a logical node hosting the user plane part of the gNB-CU, and terminating the SDAP and PDCP layers of the user plane. The gNB-CU-CP and gNB-CU-UP are interconnected with each other by means of an E1 interface.

[0098] The gNB-DU may communicate via a dedicated interface (e.g. an F1 interface) to a Radio Resource Control, RRC, layer hosted by the gNB-CU. One gNB-DU may support one or multiple cells 122 (a cell may be supported by only one gNB-DU 220). The gNB-DU may host one or more TRPs. gNB-DU functionalities may be performed also by a DU part of an Integrated Access and Backhaul, IAB, node. FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an example of another deployment of a split gNB architecture with wireless backhaul, namely Integrated Access and Backhaul, IAB.

[0099] Even though the backhaul is provided by wireless connection, NR Uu, there is a logical F1 connection between the (IAB donor-)CU and the (IAB-)DU. The interface between these functions is a standard F1 with some extensions to support IAB operation. A distributed RAN can therefore be implemented with IAB in scenarios where wired connections are not available at all cell sites.

[0100] In the following description, a RAN node’s CU, e.g. gNB-CU or IAB donor-CU, will be referred to as CU 210; and a DU or a RAN node, e.g. gNB-DU or IAB-DU, will be referred to as DU 220. In various examples, the disaggregated RAN node deployment can be cloud-based (CU with a number of connected DUs), or at least a part of an IAB network with an lAB-donor (comprising a CU) controlling lAB-nodes (each comprising DUs) within its topology.

[0101] Although preceding examples use a split architecture using a CU and DUs, examples can use other architectures.

[0102] Certain devices (not least such as: certain categories of UE, RedCap devices, loT devices, AloT devices) may rely on Energy Harvesting, EH, in order to function and / or maintain optional functionality. Energy harvesting could be considered in several use cases by which a device / UE can harvest and store a limited amount of energy (e.g. using light, RF, vibration, etc) when available. EH devices may, for example, include AloT devices such as sensors powered by solar energy or small sensors deployed outdoors for monitoring. A maximum transmission, Tx, power of such AloT devices may also be significantly smaller due to smaller battery size or the absence of a battery. Generally, they are used for delay-tolerant loT-type of traffic (e.g. reporting temperature, traffic conditions, etc).

[0103] There is a desire for improved coverage / range (e.g. 30 m indoor and up to 100 m outdoor) and increased device density for devices with ultra-low-cost and low power consumption (Radio-frequency identification, RFID, has coverage up to 10 m). The use AloT / EH devices (i.e., devices that are battery-less or devices that have batteries but do not need battery replacement over the lifetime of the device) are being studied within the 3GPP framework. Such AloT / EH devices are expected to have lower complexity, data rate, coverage, cost, and energy consumption than NB-loT / eMTC devices. The use cases for AloT / EH devices include, not least: identification, tracking, monitoring, sensing, logistics and supply chain management, transportation, manufacturing (factory automation), healthcare, energy, agriculture, transportation, smart cities, environment, extreme conditions, and hazardous environments in some use cases (environments where devices with batteries is not an option).

[0104] In order for certain devices, not least such as AloT / EH devices, to function and / or maintain their operation (e.g. provide their expected services without any interruptions due to the shortage of power) they require wireless energy transfer. Wireless networks may be used to transmit wireless energy transmissions (e.g. transmissions of energy signals / signals dedicated to transferring energy) to such devices. However, due to limited coverage of wireless networks, there may be cases where wireless energy transmissions cannot be transmitted to / received by devices via conventional (i.e. non-split / non-disaggregated) gNBs implemented as a single network equipment. It would be desirable to enable the transmission of wireless energy transmissions via split architecture gNBs, e.g. disaggregated gNBs comprising a CU and one or more DUs.

[0105] Various examples of the present disclosure relate to a procedure to provide wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to a device (such transmissions of wireless energy transmissions, i.e. energy signals, may also be referred to as RF power transfer or energy steering) using distributed RAN architecture. In order to minimise impact on existing signaling, configuration updates (for duly configuring the DU and / or CU for enabling transmissions of wireless energy transmissions) are conveyed between the CU and DU via an F1 interface. Furthermore, in various examples, DL resources (e.g. in a previously configured tdd-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon IE) are divided into two categories, namely, DL resources for transmitting wireless energy transmissions / energy signals and DL resources for DL traffic, so as to continue to allow DL traffic to occur whilst wireless energy transmissions are transmitted.

[0106] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an example of a method 400 of transmitting wireless energy transmissions to at least one device 300 using a disaggregated access node (120 - not shown) that comprises a Central Unit 210, CU, and a least one Distributed Unit 220, DU. In this particular example, the at least one device 300 that receives the wireless energy transmissions is shown as being an AloT device (e.g. any of a Type A, B or C AloT device) or an EH device. However, it is to be appreciated that the device 300 could be any device configured to receive wireless energy transmissions for RF energy harvesting.

[0107] In block 401 , the DU 220 receives, from the CU 210, configuration information 402 for configuring the DU to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions 405 for transferring energy to the at least one AloT / EH device 300.

[0108] The DU may then apply the received configuration information. The DU may then send, to the CU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied (not shown). Such an in indication may be, for example, a GNB-CU CONFIGURATION UPDATE ACKNOWLEDGE message.

[0109] In block 403, based at least in part on the received configuration information, the DU enters into a wireless energy transmission mode.

[0110] In block 404, the DU controls the transmission of one or more wireless energy transmissions 405 to the at least one AloT / EH device in accordance with the received configuration information. FIG. 5 schematically illustrates another example of a method 500 of transmitting wireless energy transmissions to at least one device 300 using a disaggregated access node (120 - not shown) that comprises a Central Unit 210, CU, and a least one Distributed Unit 220, DU. The method is broadly similar to that of FIG. 4, except that instead of the CU determining and transmitting the configuration information to the DU, in the method of FIG. 5, the DU determines and transmits the configuration information to the CU.

[0111] In block 501 , the DU 220 sends, to the CU 210, configuration information 402 for indicating a configuration of the DU for transmitting one or more wireless energy transmissions 405 for transferring energy to the at least one AloT / EH device 300.

[0112] In block 502, the DU receives, from the CU, an indication 503 of whether the DU is permitted to transmit to one or more wireless energy transmissions in accordance with the configuration information. In some examples, responsive to receipt of the configuration information, the CU may seek to apply the configuration information and then send, to the DU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied. Such an indication may be, for example, a GNB-DU CONFIGURATION UPDATE ACKNOWLEDGE message.

[0113] In block 403, responsive to receipt of the indication of permission from the CU, the DU enters into a wireless energy transmission mode based at least in part on the received configuration information.

[0114] In block 404, the DU controls the transmission of one or more wireless energy transmissions 405 to the at least one AloT / EH device in accordance with the received configuration information.

[0115] Each of the method 500 of FIG 5 and the method 400 of FIG 4 discussed above (as well as the further method features and functionality discussed below that can be combined with the method 400 and the method 500), can each be considered to illustrate a plurality of methods in the sense that each of FIGs 4 and 5 can be considered to illustrate one or more actions performed by / at a plurality of actors / entities (e.g. not least each of the DU and the CU). Each of FIGs 4 and 5 can therefore be considered to illustrate a plurality of individual methods performed by each respective individual actor / entity of the plurality of the actors / entities.

[0116] The component blocks of FIGs 4 and 5 are functional and the functions described can be performed by a single physical entity (such as an apparatus as is described with reference to FIG. 9). The functions described can also be implemented by a computer program (such as is described with reference to FIG. 10).

[0117] There now follows a discussion of various additional features, functionality and details that can be combined with and applied to the method 400 of FIG. 4 or the method 500 of FIG. 5. In some examples, the configuration information is conveyed via an F1 interface in an F1 interface message. In some examples, the configuration information is comprised in a configuration update message. With regards to block 401 of FIG. 4, the configuration information may be comprised in, for example, a GNB-CU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message. With regards to block 501 of FIG. 5, the configuration information may be comprised in, for example a GNB-DU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message.

[0118] The configuration information may comprise an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for the one or more wireless energy transmissions. The DU’s transmission of the one or more wireless energy transmissions may be via the one or more DL resources for wireless energy transmission indicated in the configuration information.

[0119] The configuration information may also comprise an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for DL data transmission, such that the DU is able to transmit one or more wireless DL data transmissions using the indicated one or more DL resources for DL data transmission.

[0120] In some examples, the configuration information comprises an indication of one or more DL resources, that have previously been configured for Time Division Duplex, TDD, DL data transmissions, that the AloT / EH device can use for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions. Such an indication of the (formerly / previously configured) DL resources for DL data transmission that can now be used (i.e. which have been reallocated via the configuration information 402) for wireless energy transmission may be: an explicit indication, a flag and / or a dedicated bit.

[0121] In some examples, the configuration information comprises an indication of: a first set of one or more DL resources for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions, and a second set of one or more DL resources for transmitting one or more DL data transmissions.

[0122] The DU may use such configuration information so as to enable the transmission, whilst in the wireless energy transmission mode, or both: the one or more wireless energy transmissions using the first set of one or more DL resources, and also the one or more DL data transmissions using the second set of one or more DL resources.

[0123] Advantageously, the use of such configuration information comprising DL resources for each of wireless energy transmissions and also DL data transmissions enables the provision of wireless energy transmissions whilst also simultaneously enabling DL data transmissions. This may thereby help reduce the impact that the DU’s transmission of wireless energy transmissions has on the DU’s network traffic and DL data transmissions. Hence, an impact of a Quality of Experience, QoE, of other UEs served by the DU may be reduced / minimized. In some examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are fixed, i.e. an indication as to whether the DL resources allocated, in the configuration information, for wireless energy transmission are fixed and unable to be reallocated for use for DL data transmission. Likewise, the configuration information may comprise an indication of whether DL resources allocated, in the configuration information, for DL data transmission are fixed and unable to be reallocated for use for wireless energy transmission.

[0124] In some examples, the configuration information further comprises an indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are permitted to be dynamically reallocated, i.e. such that the DU can decide whether or not DL resources initially allocated, in the configuration information, for wireless energy transmission can be reallocated for use for DL data transmission (and vice versa).

[0125] In some examples, the configuration information comprises an indication of a time period indicating how long the apparatus is to be in the wireless energy transmission mode. The DU may transition between a wireless energy transmission mode and a non- wireless energy transmission mode (i.e. a mode, such as a default / normal data transmission mode, wherein no wireless energy transmission occurs) based at least in part on the indicated time period. The time period may be determined / selected so as to correspond to determined periods of low activity or inactivity of the DU, i.e. periods of low network traffic and reduced load for the DU (e.g. during a night time period). By transitioning into / out of a wireless energy transmission mode (i.e. a mode in which wireless energy transmissions from the DU are permitted) based on time periods of anticipated low / high activity and network traffic, this may thereby help reduce the impact that the DU’s transmission of wireless energy transmissions has on the DU’s network traffic and DL data transmissions. This may thereby reduce / minimize an impact of a Quality of Experience, QoE, of other UEs served by the DU.

[0126] In some examples, the transition into / out of the wireless energy transmission mode is CU- initiated timer-based.

[0127] In some examples, the DU may control the transmission of the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on an inactivity timer of the apparatus, i.e. a timer timing periods of inactivity of the DU, such as time periods where the DU is not transmitting DL data. Advantageously, this may enable the DU to determine less busy time periods (i.e. periods of low network traffic / network load) and transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions in such less busy time periods.

[0128] In some examples, the DU monitors and / or obtains one or more energy transfer requirements for the at least one AloT / EH device (e.g. received report from the AloT / EH device as to its current energy condition / energy level). Such energy transfer requirements may be based on: an amount of energy stored at the AloT / EH device (e.g. % energy remaining), and amount of energy required by the AloT / EH device, an energy reception / harvesting rate threshold for the AloT / EH device; characteristics of the wireless energy transmission itself (e.g. characteristics of the energy signal to be transmitted, not least such as its carrier frequency and bandwidth). The DU may then control its wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the monitored energy transfer requirements for one or more devices. Advantageously, this may enable the DU to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions when required, i.e. when the AloT / EH device has an energy level / status less than a threshold amount. If the AloT / EH device has sufficient energy, the DU need not perform wireless energy transmission. This may thereby help reduce the amount of wireless energy transmissions by the DU and hence reduce the impact on the DU’s network traffic and DL data transmissions. Hence, an impact of a Quality of Experience, QoE, of other UEs served by the DU may be reduced / minimized.

[0129] In some examples, the DU controls its wireless energy transmissions based on one or more reports, received from the device, (s) of an energy status of the device. In this regard, in such examples, the transition into / out of the wireless energy transmission mode is DU- initiated energy status report-based.

[0130] In some examples, the DU monitors its own level of traffic / network load. The DU may then control its wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on a determined level of traffic. For instance, if the DU were above a certain threshold level of traffic / load, the DU may decide not to enter into the wireless energy transmission mode, in which case the DU may duly indicate the same to the CU. In addition or alternatively, if the DU were above a certain threshold level of traffic / load, the DU may decide re-allocate DL resources that were allocated for wireless energy transmissions and allocate them to DL data transmissions.

[0131] In some examples, the DU receives, from the CU, an indication of one or more identifiers of one or more DUs. The indication may be provided in the configuration information. The DU’s transmission of the one or more wireless energy transmissions may be based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more DUs. Advantageously, by using such identifiers of one or more DUs, this enables the CU to select which of DUs are to transmit wireless energy transmissions. For instance, a CU with N DUs may select a subset, M, of its N DUs to transmit wireless energy transmissions. By indicating, in the configuration information, which DUs the configuration information is to apply to and / or which DUs are to transmit wireless energy transmissions, the configuration information is able to, in effect, comprise an indication of one or more spatial resources to be used. In this regard, the spatial resources correspond to specifying which DUs (each located at differing spatial locations) are to transmit wireless energy transmissions.

[0132] In some examples, the configuration information may comprise an indication of one or beam identifiers that are to be used to transmit wireless energy transmissions. By indicating, in the configuration information, which beams are to be used to transmit wireless energy transmissions, the configuration information is able to, in effect, comprise an indication of one or more spatial resources to be used. In this regard, the spatial resources correspond to specifying which beams (each having a differing orientation / direction) are to transmit wireless energy transmissions.

[0133] In some examples, the configuration information may comprise an indication of one or more identifiers of the one or more AloT / EH devices, such that the one or more wireless energy transmissions might be performed based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more devices. In this regard, the DU may control its wireless energy transmissions so as to transmit / direct the same to specific one or more AloT / EH devices. For instance, the DU may select a beam for wireless energy transmissions based on a last known location of the AloT / EH device.

[0134] In some examples, the configuration information is associated with second configuration information for a second DU (wherein the second DU could be a DU of the same CU or a DU of a second CU of a second disaggregated access node, e.g. of a neighboring gNB). In this regard, the configuration information and the second configuration may be generated so as to enable a coordination of the wireless energy transmissions transmitted by the DU and second DU, e.g. so as to provide wireless energy transmissions that temporally and / or spatially overlap, and / or are directed towards the same AloT / EH device so as to increase the reception of energy by the receiving AloT / EH device. In this regard, the wireless energy transmissions / energy signals can be transmitted in a coordinated manner via multiple DUs / cells. This can be enabled by a distributed RAN where the CU is configuring multiple DUs / cells for energy signal transmission, which advantageously can provide improved energy transfer / energy harvesting.

[0135] In some examples the CU configures a number of DUs for energy signal transmission so that the resultant signals can provide higher energy density for energy harvesting. The relevant parameters needed for coordinated energy signal transmission may include not least: radio resources (PRB allocation), beam control (which could be based on measurement reports) that could be specific for different sites, etc.

[0136] In some examples, based on Radio Resource Management, RRM, measurement reports (sent by AITs / EH UEs) for serving DUs and neighboring DUs, a CU could select M (<= N) number of serving DUs for energy steering, where N is the total number of DUs connected to a CU. The CU could perform a DU refinement procedure to further select the best DUs for energy steering.

[0137] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a division of downlink resources. In this regard, DL resources, such as which may be configured / allocated in tdd-UL-DL- ConfigurationCommon IE, are divided into two categories: i) DL resources for wireless energy transmissions (i.e. for transmitting one or more energy signals), and ii) DL resources for DL traffic. FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an example of a procedure to provide RF power transfer using a distributed RAN architecture. In this example, as will be discussed further below, the procedure is a CU-initiated timer-based procedure for effecting wireless energy transfer.

[0138] In block 1 , a CU 210 monitors energy needs of at least one AloT / EH device (not least for example a Type C AloT device), e.g. via receipt of reports of the AloT / EH device’s energy status. The CU also monitors traffic density / traffic load in order to evaluate time periods that are expected to be less busy / loaded and hence determine a time period that might be suitable for wireless energy transmission / energy steering. The CU may determine a time period for energy steering based on an inactivity timer of the DU.

[0139] Where multiple DUs are connected to a single CU, the CU may indicate one or more particular DU Identifiers, IDs, (through an F1 interface) to perform energy steering.

[0140] In block 2, the CU sends a configuration update (a CU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message) to the DU for energy steering (through the F1 interface). This could be the same configuration message as enlisted in ETSI TS 138 473 V17.5.0 (2023-07) Section 8.2.5.2, wherein the configuration message may comprise the following added information: a) A new information element for energy steering, communicated through the F1 interface, to inform the DU that the particular indications of the configuration message regarding DL resources are to be DL resources for energy steering (and not for data Tx / Rx). This new information element could be 1 -bit indication, where "1 ” means that the configuration is for energy steering (i.e. Cells to be Activated List, Cells to be Deactivated, I AB Barred IE, etc. for energy steering) and "0” means that the configurations are for normal NR operation. b) A timer indication for energy steering. c) An indication that there could be fixed TDD allocation options for energy signals.

[0141] As per TS 38.331 , the IE ServingCellConfigCommon could be used to configure cell-specific parameters of a UE's serving cell. By way of a non-limiting example, the following new information element, indicated in underline, could be added to tdd-UL-DL- ConfigurationCommon IE as follows:

[0142] ASN1 START

[0143] - TAG-TDD-UL-DL-CONFIGCOMMON-START

[0144] TDD-UL-DL-ConfigCommon ::= SEQUENCE { referenceSubcarrierSpacing SubcarrierSpacing, patternl TDD-UL-DL-Pattern, pattern2 TDD-UL-DL-Pattern OPTIONAL,

[0145] -- Need R

[0146] } TDD-UL-DL-Pattern ::= SEQUENCE { dl-UL-TransmissionPeriodicity ENUMERATED {ms0p5, ms0p625, ms1 , ms1 p25, ms2, ms2p5, ms5, ms10}, nrofDownlinkSlots INTEGER (0..maxNrofSlots), nrofDownlinkSymbols INTEGER (0..maxNrofSymbols-1 ), nrofEHDownlinkSlots _ INTEGER (Q..maxNrofSlots), nrofEHDownlinkSymbols _ INTEGER (Q..maxNrofSymbols-1 ), nrofUplinkSlots INTEGER (0..maxNrofSlots), nrofUplinkSymbols INTEGER (0..maxNrofSymbols-1 ),

[0147] [[ dl-UL-TransmissionPeriodicity-v1530 ENUMERATED {ms3, ms4}

[0148] OPTIONAL - Need R ]] }

[0149] - TAG-TDD-UL-DL-CONFIGCOMMON-STOP

[0150] - ASN1 STOP

[0151] The DL resources (in tdd-UL-DL-ConfigurationCommon IE) are divided into two categories, namely, DL resources for wireless energy transmission and DL traffic. In this regard, advantageously, the allocation of DL resources for both:

[0152] DL data transmissions (e.g. "nrofDownlinkSlots” and "nrofDownlinkSymbols”), and DL wireless energy transmissions (e.g. "nrofEHDownlinkSlots” and "nrofEHDownlinkSymbols”) may thereby help reduce the impact that the DU’s transmission of wireless energy transmissions has on the DU’s network traffic and DL data transmissions. Hence, an impact of a Quality of Experience, QoE, of other UEs served by the DU may be reduced / minimized.

[0153] In block 3, the DU sends an acknowledgment message to the CU. The DU could send a configuration failure message with an appropriate cause value (i.e. due to a resource conflict the latest scheduling information). This could include Time To Wait IE, whereupon the CU waits at least for the indicated time before re-initiating the CU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message towards the same DU.

[0154] In block 4, the DU goes in to an energy steering mode for a timer T (i.e. the timer indicated in the configuration update message - see b) of block 2 above).

[0155] During the energy steering mode, the DU continues sending Synchronization Signal Blocks, SSBs, UL resources, and a part of DL traffic for NR UEs. Also, during the energy steering mode, access resources (e.g. resources for DL data transmission) remain available at all times. If an NR UE tries to access the cell, the DU could stop the transmission of the energy signal i.e. a MAC layer signal sent between the DU and CU could be used to decide whether to use resources for traffic or energy signal transmission. The CU could configure, via a MAC layer signal, the DU such that only DL resources could be used for transmission of energy signals.

[0156] In block 5, the energy signal is transmitted to the AloT / EH devices.

[0157] In block 6, upon expiry of the timer T, the DU leaves the energy steering mode and reverts back to / continues with NR operations, e.g. normal data traffic wherein the DL resources are all allocated to DL traffic (rather than being used, at least in part, for transmitting an energy signal.

[0158] Advantageously, examples may enable energy delivery using a distributed RAN architecture. Moreover, examples may enable the energy delivery to be controlled so as to occur during certain time periods, e.g. time periods of less busy hours / low traffic load (not least such as night time). This may also enable a reduction in costs, since energy prices at night time may be lower. Examples may thereby improve QoS of AloT / EH devices with minimal impact on operational expenditure, OPEX, of a Communication Service Provider, CSP.

[0159] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an example of an alternative procedure to provide RF power transfer using a distributed RAN architecture. In this example, as will be discussed further below, the procedure is a DU-initiated energy status report-based procedure for effecting wireless energy transfer.

[0160] In block 1 , a DU 220 monitors energy needs of the AloT / EH device(s) 300, e.g. via reports of the AloT / EH device(s)’s energy status, i.e. through periodic energy reports from the AloT / EH devices. The DU also monitors traffic density to evaluate less busy time periods suitable for performing energy steering. The DU could find a timer for energy steering based on the inactivity timer of the DU.

[0161] In block 2, the DU sends a configuration update (a DU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message) to the DU for energy steering (through the F1 interface). This could be the same configuration message as enlisted in ETSI TS 138 473 V17.5.0 (2023-07) Section 8.2.5.2, wherein the configuration message may comprise the following added information: a) A new information element for energy steering, communicated through the F1 interface, to inform the DU that the particular indications of the configuration message regarding DL resources are to be DL resources for energy steering (and not for data Tx / Rx). This new information element could be 1 -bit indication, where "1 ” means that the configuration is for energy steering (i.e. Cells to be Activated List, Cells to be Deactivated, I AB Barred IE, etc. for energy steering) and "0” means that the configurations are for normal NR operation. b) A timer indication for energy steering. c) An indication that there could be fixed TDD allocation options for energy signals. d) An indication of available resources for energy signal.

[0162] As per TS 38.331 , the IE ServingCellConfigCommon could be used to configure cell-specific parameters of a UE's serving cell. By way of a non-limiting example, the following new information element, indicated in underline, could be added to tdd-UL-DL- ConfigurationCommon IE as follows:

[0163] ASN1 START - TAG-TDD-UL-DL-CONFIGCOMMON-START

[0164] TDD-UL-DL-ConfigCommon ::= SEQUENCE { referenceSubcarrierSpacing SubcarrierSpacing, patternl TDD-UL-DL-Pattern, pattern? TDD-UL-DL-Pattern OPTIONAL,

[0165] -- Need R

[0166] }

[0167] TDD-UL-DL-Pattern ::= SEQUENCE { dl-UL-TransmissionPeriodicity ENUMERATED {ms0p5, ms0p625, ms1 , ms1 p25, ms2, ms2p5, ms5, ms10}, nrofDownlinkSlots INTEGER (CL.maxNrofSIots), nrofDownlinkSymbols INTEGER (0..maxNrofSymbols-1 ), nrofEHDownlinkSlots INTEGER (Q..maxNrofSlots), nrofEHDownlinkSymbols INTEGER (Q..maxNrofSymbols-1 ), nrofUplinkSlots INTEGER (0..maxNrofSlots), nrofUplinkSymbols INTEGER (0..maxNrofSymbols-1 ),

[0168] [[ dl-UL-TransmissionPeriodicity-v1530 ENUMERATED {ms3, ms4}

[0169] OPTIONAL - Need R ]] }

[0170] - TAG-TDD-UL-DL-CONFIGCOMMON-STOP

[0171] - ASN1 STOP

[0172] In block 3, the CU sends an acknowledgement message to the DU. The CU could send a configuration failure message with an appropriate cause value (i.e. due to the latest scheduling information). This could include Time To Wait IE, whereupon the DU waits at least for the indicated time before re-initiating the DU CONFIGURATION UPDATE message towards the same CU. The CU may also indicate to the DU, over RRC, to start sending energy signal.

[0173] In block 4, the DU goes in to an energy steering mode. The DU may go into the energy steering mode for a time period T (i.e. the time period indicated in the timer of the configuration update message - see b) of block 2 above.

[0174] During the energy steering mode, the DU continues sending Synchronization Signal Blocks, SSBs, UL resources, and a part of DL traffic for NR UEs.

[0175] Also, during the energy steering mode, access resources (e.g. resources for DL data transmission) remain available at all times. If an NR UE tries to access the cell, the DU could stop the transmission of the energy signal i.e. a MAC layer signal sent between the DU and CU could be used to decide whether to use resources for traffic or energy signal transmission. The CU could configure, via a MAC layer signal, the DU such that only DL resources could be used for transmission of energy signals.

[0176] In block 5, the energy signal is transmitted to the AloT / EH devices.

[0177] In block 6, the DU monitors energy needs of the AloT / EH device(s), e.g. via periodic energy reports from the AloT / EH devices.

[0178] In block 7, upon determining that the energy need(s) of the EH device(s) has / have been filled (e.g. based at least in part on the energy status reports of block 6), the DU leaves the energy steering mode and reverts back to / continues with NR operations, e.g. normal data traffic wherein the DL resources are all allocated to DL traffic (rather than being used, at least in part, for transmitting an energy signal). Alternatively, if a timer had been also been configured, and if the timer expired prior to the energy need of the EH devices being filled, then upon expiry of the timer T, the DU would leave the energy steering mode and revert back to / continue with NR operations.

[0179] The flowchart of each of FIGs. 7 and 8 each represent one possible scenario among others. The order of the blocks shown is not absolutely required, so in principle, the various blocks can be performed out of order. Not all the blocks are essential. In certain examples one or more blocks can be performed in a different order or overlapping in time, in series or in parallel. One or more blocks can be omitted or added or changed in some combination of ways.

[0180] The blocks illustrated in FIGs. 4, 5, 7 and 8, as well as the above-described functionality, can represent actions in a method, functionality performed by an apparatus, and / or sections of instructions / code in the computer program. It will be understood that each block and combinations of blocks illustrated in FIGs. 4, 5, 7 and 8, as well as the above-described functionality, can be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, and / or software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the functions described above can be performed by a duly configured apparatus (such as an apparatus, or DU, comprising means for performing the above described functionality). One or more of the functions / functionality described above can be embodied by a duly configured computer program (such as a computer program comprising computer program instructions which embody the functions / functionality described above and which can be stored by a memory storage device and performed by a processor).

[0181] As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (i.e. hardware) to produce a machine, such that the instructions when performed on the programmable apparatus create means for implementing the functions / functionality specified in the blocks. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function specified in the blocks. The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a programmable apparatus to cause a series of operational actions to be performed on the programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which are performed on the programmable apparatus provide actions for implementing the functions / functionality specified in the blocks.

[0182] Various, but not necessarily all, examples of the present disclosure can take the form of a method, an apparatus, or a computer program. Accordingly, various, but not necessarily all, examples can be implemented in hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0183] Various, but not necessarily all, examples of the present disclosure are described using flowchart illustrations and schematic block diagrams. It will be understood that each block (of the flowchart illustrations and block diagrams), and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by computer program instructions of a computer program. These program instructions can be provided to one or more processor(s), processing circuitry or controller(s) such that the instructions which execute on the same create means for causing implementing the functions specified in the block or blocks, i.e. such that the method can be computer implemented. The computer program instructions can be executed by the processor(s) to cause a series of operational block / steps / actions to be performed by the processor(s) to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the processor(s) provide block / steps for implementing the functions specified in the block or blocks. Accordingly, the blocks support: combinations of means for performing the specified functions; combinations of actions for performing the specified functions; and computer program instructions / algorithm for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that each block, and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems which perform the specified functions or actions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer program instructions.

[0184] Various, but not necessarily all, examples of the present disclosure provide both a method and corresponding apparatus comprising various modules, means or circuitry that provide the functionality for performing / applying the actions of the method. The modules, means or circuitry can be implemented as hardware, or can be implemented as software or firmware to be performed by a computer processor. In the case of firmware or software, examples of the present disclosure can be provided as a computer program product including a computer readable storage structure embodying computer program instructions (i.e. the software or firmware) thereon for performing by the computer processor.

[0185] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a block diagram of an apparatus 10 for performing the methods, processes, procedures and signalling described in the present disclosure and illustrated in FIGs. 4, 5, 7 and 8, as well as the above-described functionality, in this regard the apparatus can perform the roles of the DU 220, or a CU 210, in the methods illustrated and described above. The component blocks of FIG. 9 are functional and the functions described can be performed by a single physical entity.

[0186] The apparatus comprises a controller 11 , which could be provided within a device such as a DU 220 or CU 210.

[0187] The controller 11 can be embodied by a computing device, not least such as those mentioned above. In some, but not necessarily all examples, the apparatus can be embodied as a chip, chip set, circuitry or module, i.e. for use in any of the foregoing. As used here 'module’ refers to a unit or apparatus that excludes certain parts / components that would be added by an end manufacturer or a user.

[0188] Implementation of the controller 11 can be as controller circuitry. The controller 11 can be implemented in hardware alone, have certain aspects in software including firmware alone or can be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0189] The controller 11 can be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functionality, for example, by using executable instructions of a computer program 14 in a general- purpose or special-purpose processor 12 that can be stored on a computer readable storage medium 13, for example memory, or disk etc, to be executed by such a processor 12. The processor 12 is configured to read from and write to the memory 13. The processor 12 can also comprise an output interface via which data and / or commands are output by the processor 12 and an input interface via which data and / or commands are input to the processor 12. The apparatus can be coupled to or comprise one or more other components 15 (not least for example: a radio transceiver, sensors, input / output user interface elements and / or other modules / devices / components for inputting and outputting data / commands).

[0190] The memory 13 stores instructions such as a computer program 14 comprising such instructions (e.g. computer program instructions / code) that controls the operation of the apparatus 10 when loaded into the processor 12. The instructions of the computer program 14, provide the logic and routines that enables the apparatus to perform the methods, processes and procedures described in the present disclosure and illustrated in FIGs. 4, 5, 7 and 8, as well as the above-described functionality. The processor 12 by reading the memory 13 is able to load and execute the computer program 14.

[0191] The instructions may be comprised in a computer program, a non-transitory computer readable medium, a computer program product, a machine readable medium. The term "non-transitory,” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e. tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g. RAM vs. ROM). In some but not necessarily all examples, the computer program instructions may be distributed over more than one computer program.

[0192] Although the memory 13 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it can be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which can be integrated / removable and / or can provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0193] Although the processor 12 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it can be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which can be integrated / removable. The processor 12 can be a single core or multi-core processor.

[0194] The apparatus can include one or more components for effecting the methods, processes and procedures described in the present disclosure and illustrated in FIGs. 4, 5, 7 and 8, as well as the above-described functionality,. It is contemplated that the functions of these components can be combined in one or more components or performed by other components of equivalent functionality. The description of a function should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function.

[0195] Where a structural feature has been described, it can be replaced by means for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature whether that function or those functions are explicitly or implicitly described.

[0196] Although examples of the apparatus have been described above in terms of comprising various components, it should be understood that the components can be embodied as or otherwise controlled by a corresponding controller or circuitry such as one or more processing elements or processors of the apparatus. In this regard, each of the components described above can be one or more of any device, means or circuitry embodied in hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to perform the corresponding functions of the respective components as described above.

[0197] In examples where the apparatus is provided within a DU 220 of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a CU and the DU, the apparatus comprises: at least one processor 12; and at least one memory 13 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 12, cause the apparatus at least to: receive, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; enter, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0198] In examples where the apparatus is provided within a DU 220 of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a CU and the DU, the apparatus comprises: at least one processor 12; and at least one memory 13 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 12, cause the apparatus at least to: send, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receive, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; enter, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0199] According to some examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a system comprising at least one DU 220, a CU 210 and optionally one or more AloT / EH devices 300.

[0200] The above described examples find application as enabling components of: tracking systems, automotive systems; telecommunication systems; electronic systems including consumer electronic products; distributed computing systems; ad-hoc networks; the internet; the internet of things (loT); Vehicle-to-everything (V2X), virtualized networks; and related software and services. FIG. 10, illustrates a computer program 14 which may be conveyed via a delivery mechanism 20. The delivery mechanism 20 can be any suitable delivery mechanism, for example, a machine readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a solid-state memory, a record medium such as a Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD- ROM) or a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or an article of manufacture that comprises or tangibly embodies the computer program 14. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transfer the computer program. An apparatus can receive, propagate or transmit the computer program as a computer data signal.

[0201] In certain examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions, which when executed by an apparatus configured for operation as a DU of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a CU, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following or for causing performing at least the following: receiving, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0202] In certain examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions, which when executed by an apparatus configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a CU, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following or for causing performing at least the following: sending, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

[0203] References to 'computer program’, 'computer-readable storage medium’, 'computer program product’, 'tangibly embodied computer program’ etc. or a 'controller’, 'computer’, 'processor’ etc. should be understood to encompass not only computers having different architectures such as single / multi- processor architectures and sequential (Von Neumann) / parallel architectures but also specialized circuits such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), application specific circuits (ASIC), signal processing devices and other devices. References to computer program, instructions, code etc. should be understood to encompass software for a programmable processor or firmware such as, for example, the programmable content of a hardware device whether instructions for a processor, or configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array or programmable logic device etc.

[0204] As used in this application, the term 'circuitry’ can refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0205] (a) hardware-only circuitry implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry) and

[0206] (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable):

[0207] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and

[0208] (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions and

[0209] (c) hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (for example firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0210] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0211] Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0212] Features described in the preceding description can be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

[0213] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions can be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0214] Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features can also be present in other examples whether described or not. Accordingly, features described in relation to one example / aspect of the disclosure can include any or all of the features described in relation to another example / aspect of the disclosure, and vice versa, to the extent that they are not mutually inconsistent.

[0215] Although various examples of the present disclosure have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set out in the claims. The term 'comprise’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X can comprise only one Y or can comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use 'comprise’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to "comprising only one ...” or by using "consisting”.

[0216] In this description, the wording 'connect’, 'couple’ and 'communication’ and their derivatives mean operationally connected / coupled / in communication. It should be appreciated that any number or combination of intervening components can exist (including no intervening components), i.e. so as to provide direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intervening components can include hardware and / or software components.

[0217] As used herein, the term "determine / determining" (and grammatical variants thereof) can include, not least: evaluating, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, measuring, investigating, identifying, looking up (for example, looking up in a table, a database or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, "determining" can include receiving (for example, receiving information), retrieving / accessing (for example, retrieving / accessing data in a memory), obtaining and the like. Also, " determine / determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, inferring and the like.

[0218] As used herein, a description of an action should also be considered to disclose enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling that action. For example, a description of transmitting information should also be considered to disclose enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling transmitting information. Similarly, for example, a description of an apparatus transmitting information should also be considered to disclose at least one means or controller of the apparatus enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling the apparatus to transmit the information.”

[0219] The term "means” as used in the description and in the claims may refer to one or more individual elements configured to perform the corresponding recited functionality or functionalities, or it may refer to several elements that perform such functionality or functionalities. Furthermore, several functionalities recited in the claims may be performed by the same individual means or the same combination of means. For example performing such functionality or functionalities may be caused in an apparatus by a processor that executes instructions stored in a memory of the apparatus.

[0220] References to a parameter, or value of a parameter, should be understood to refer to "data indicative of”, "data defining” or "data representative of” the relevant parameter / parameter value if not explicitly stated (unless the context demands otherwise). The data may be in any way indicative of the relevant parameter / parameter value, and may be directly or indirectly indicative thereof. In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term ’example’ or 'for example’, 'can’ or 'may’ in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some or all other examples. Thus 'example’, 'for example’, 'can’ or 'may’ refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all of the instances in the class.

[0221] In this description, references to "a / an / the” [feature, element, component, means ...] are used with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning and are to be interpreted as "at least one” [feature, element, component, means ...] unless explicitly stated otherwise. That is any reference to X comprising a / the Y indicates that X can comprise only one Y or can comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use 'a’ or 'the’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of 'at least one’ or 'one or more’ can be used to emphasise an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning. As used herein, "at least one of the following: ” and "at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by "and” or "or”, mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all the elements.

[0222] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature (or combination of features) itself and also to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

[0223] In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described. In the above description, the apparatus described can alternatively or in addition comprise an apparatus which in some other examples comprises a distributed system of apparatus, for example, a client / server apparatus system. In examples where an apparatus provided forms (or a method is implemented as) a distributed system, each apparatus forming a component and / or part of the system provides (or implements) one or more features which collectively implement an example of the present disclosure. In some examples, an apparatus is re-configured by an entity other than its initial manufacturer to implement an example of the present disclosure by being provided with additional software, for example by a user downloading such software, which when executed causes the apparatus to implement an example of the present disclosure (such implementation being either entirely by the apparatus or as part of a system of apparatus as mentioned hereinabove).

[0224] The above description describes some examples of the present disclosure however those of ordinary skill in the art will be aware of possible alternative structures and method features which offer equivalent functionality to the specific examples of such structures and features described herein above and which for the sake of brevity and clarity have been omitted from the above description. Nonetheless, the above description should be read as implicitly including reference to such alternative structures and method features which provide equivalent functionality unless such alternative structures or method features are explicitly excluded in the above description of the examples of the present disclosure.

[0225] Whilst endeavouring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of examples of the present disclosure believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and / or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

[0226] The examples of the present disclosure and the accompanying claims can be suitably combined in any manner apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Separate references to an "example”, "in some examples” and / or the like in the description do not necessarily refer to the same example and are also not mutually exclusive unless so stated and / or except as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. For instance, a feature, structure, process, block, step, action, or the like described in one example may also be included in other examples, but is not necessarily included.

[0227] Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and the claims are embodiment(s) of the present disclosure. Further, while the claims herein are provided as comprising specific dependencies, it is contemplated that any claims can depend from any other claims and that to the extent that any alternative embodiments can result from combining, integrating, and / or omitting features of the various claims and / or changing dependencies of claims, any such alternative embodiments and their equivalents are also within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:1 . An apparatus, configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; means for entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and means for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: means for applying the configuration information; and means for sending, to the CU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied.

3. An apparatus, configured for operation as a Distributed Unit, DU, of a disaggregated access node comprising at least a Central Unit, CU, and the DU, the apparatus comprising: means for sending, to the CU, configuration information for configuring the apparatus to transmit one or more wireless energy transmissions for transferring energy to one or more devices; means for receiving, from the CU, an indication indicating whether the apparatus is permitted to transmit the one or more wireless energy transmissions; means for entering, based at least in part on the configuration information, the apparatus into a wireless energy transmission mode; and means for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions based at least in part on the configuration information.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: means for receiving, from the CU, an indication of whether the configuration information has been successfully applied by the CU.

5. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the apparatus further comprises means for monitoring one or more energy transfer requirements for the one or more devices; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus based at least in part on the monitored energy transfer requirements for the one or more devices.

6. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein:the apparatus further comprises means for determining information indicating a level of traffic at the apparatus; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus based at least in part on the determined information.

7. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information further comprises an indication of a time period indicating how long the apparatus is to be in the wireless energy transmission mode; and transitioning out of the wireless energy transmission mode is based at least in part on the indicated time period.

8. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on an inactivity timer of the apparatus.

9. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for the one or more wireless energy transmissions; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus using the indicated one or more DL resources.

10. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources allocated for DL data transmission, and one or more wireless DL data transmissions are transmitted by the apparatus using the indicated one or more DL resources.11 . The apparatus of claim any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information comprises an indication of: a first set of one or more DL resources for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions, and a second set of one or more DL resources for transmitting one or more DL data transmissions; and the means for transmitting is configured to transmit, whilst in the wireless energy transmission mode: the one or more wireless energy transmissions using the first set of one or more DL resources, and the one or more DL data transmissions using the second set of one or more DL resources.

12. The apparatus of any previous claim when dependent upon claim 9 or 10, wherein the configuration information further comprises: an indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are fixed, oran indication of whether the indicated allocated one or more DL resources are permitted to be dynamically reallocated, by the apparatus, between use for wireless energy transmission and use for DL data transmission.

13. The apparatus of any previous claim, further comprising means for receiving, from the CU, an indication of one or more identifiers of one or more DUs, and wherein the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more DUs.

14. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information further comprises: an indication of one or more spatial resources, and / or an indication of one or beam identifiers; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are transmitted based at least in part on the indicated one or more spatial resources and / or the indicated of one or beam identifiers.

15. The apparatus of any previous claim, wherein: the configuration information further comprises an indication of one or more identifiers of the one or more devices; and the one or more wireless energy transmissions are performed based at least in part on the indicated one or more identifiers of the one or more devices.

16. The apparatus of any of previous claim, wherein the configuration information is conveyed via at least one of the following: an F1 interface; an F1 interface message; and a configuration update message.

17. The apparatus of any of previous claim, wherein the configuration information comprises: at least one of: an indication of one or more downlink, DL, resources that the apparatus can use for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions; an indication of one or more DL resources, previously configured for Time Division Duplex, TDD, DL data transmissions, that the apparatus can use for transmitting the one or more wireless energy transmissions; an explicit indication; a flag; and a dedicated bit.

18. The apparatus of any of previous claim, wherein the configuration information is associated with second configuration information received by a second apparatus configured for operation as a DU of a disaggregated access node; and wherein at least one of the configuration information and the second configuration information are configuredso as to enable a coordination of the one or more wireless energy transmissions transmitted by the apparatus and second apparatus.

19. The apparatus of any of previous claim, wherein the one or more devices comprises one of more of the following:User Equipment, UE; a Reduced Capability, RedCap, device; an Internet of Things, AloT, device; an Ambient Internet of Things, AloT, device; and an Energy Harvesting, EH, device.

Images