Ambient IoT device, base station, core network node, intermediate node, and method therefor

Abstract

According to the present invention, an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device that is powered by energy harvesting communicates with a base station or an intermediate node. The AIoT device controls a transition between a plurality of states of the AIoT device on the basis of signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station. This makes it possible to contribute to, for example, solving a problem that is related to support of the AIoT device in a cellular network.

Description

Ambient IoT device, base station, core network node, intermediate node, and methods thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wireless communication systems in which Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) devices are used.

[0002] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP (registered trademark)) is considering supporting AIoT devices in 5G NR for Release 19 and beyond (see, for example, Non-Patent Documents 1-6). An AIoT device is an ambient power-enabled IoT device. An AIoT device is an IoT device that is powered by energy harvesting and is battery-less or has limited energy storage capability (e.g., using a capacitor). Energy for the AIoT device is supplied by harvesting radio waves, light, motion, heat, or other suitable power sources.

[0003] AIoT device types may be distinguished by the presence or absence of power storage capabilities. Additionally or alternatively, AIoT device types may be distinguished by the magnitude of their peak power consumption. Additionally or alternatively, AIoT device types may be distinguished by whether they have uplink amplification and / or downlink amplification. Additionally or alternatively, AIoT device types may be distinguished by whether the device's uplink transmission is a backscatter transmission on an externally supplied carrier or is generated by the device's active Radio Frequency (RF) components.

[0004] Non-Patent Document 2 discloses roughly four connectivity topologies for AIoT devices, as follows: Topology 1 is direct communication between a base station and an AIoT device. In Topology 1, the AIoT device communicates directly and bidirectionally with the base station. The communication between the base station and the AIoT device includes one or both of AIoT data and signaling. Topology 1 includes the possibility that the base station transmitting to the AIoT device and the base station receiving from the AIoT device may be different.

[0005] Topology 2 is communication between a base station and an AIoT device via an intermediate node. In Topology 2, the AIoT device communicates bidirectionally with the intermediate node located between the device and the base station. The intermediate node can be a relay, Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) node, User Equipment (UE), or repeater, which are compatible with Ambient IoT. The intermediate node transfers AIoT data and / or signaling between the base station and the AIoT device.

[0006] Topology 3 is communication between a base station and an AIoT device via an assisting node. Topology 3 includes an option where the assisting node assists the downlink (Topology 3 with downlink assistance) and an option where the assisting node assists the uplink (Topology 3 with uplink assistance). In Topology 3 with downlink assistance, the AIoT device transmits data and / or signaling to the base station and receives data and / or signaling from the assisting node. In Topology 3 with uplink assistance, the AIoT device receives data and / or signaling from the base station and transmits data and / or signaling to the assisting node. The assisting node is a relay, IAB node, UE, repeater, etc. that supports ambient IoT.

[0007] Topology 4 is direct communication between the UE and the AIoT device. In Topology 4, the AIoT device communicates bidirectionally with the UE. The communication between the UE and the AIoT device includes AIoT data and / or signaling.

[0008] Non-Patent Document 1 presents a study item on solutions for AIoT in NR. The overall objective of this study item is to consider a harmonized air interface design for AIoT with minimized differences (if necessary) to enable the following two types of devices: The first type of AIoT device has a peak power consumption of approximately 1 μW or less, has energy storage, and does not have downlink or uplink amplification within the device. The uplink transmission of the first type of AIoT device is backscattered on an externally supplied carrier. The second type of AIoT device has a power consumption of several hundred μW or less, has energy storage, and has one or both downlink and uplink amplification. The uplink transmission of the second type of AIoT device is backscattered transmission on an externally supplied carrier or is generated by active RF components within the device.

[0009] The general scope of the study item defined in Non-Patent Document 1 assumes no Radio Resource Control (RRC) state, no mobility (i.e., at least no cell selection / re-selection-like functions), no Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ), and no ARQ. In addition, the general scope of the study item targets Topology 1 and Topology 2 among the connection topologies described in Non-Patent Document 2, and assumes a UE as an intermediate node in Topology 2.

[0010] Non-Patent Document 4 proposes including lightweight communication and lightweight security in the scope of consideration for AIoT devices. Regarding lightweight communication, Non-Patent Document 4 points out that supporting legacy Layer 2 / Layer 3 (L2 / L3) procedures, including random access, RRC connection, and authentication / authorization, for AIoT devices is too complex. Non-Patent Document 4 states that simplified L2 / L3 procedures, including only necessary interactions between AIoT devices and networks, must be designed for AIoT. Regarding lightweight security, Non-Patent Document 4 points out that it is extremely difficult or impossible for AIoT devices to support legacy 5G security mechanisms (e.g., authentication / authorization, encryption, decryption, etc.) due to device complexity and limited power constraints. Non-Patent Document 4 proposes lightweight security for AIoT.

[0011] Non-Patent Document 5 describes general AIoT procedures for Topology 1, i.e., direct communication between a base station and an AIoT device. This procedure includes the base station (gNB) configuring resources for the AIoT link between the gNB and the AIoT device, the gNB controlling AIoT procedures (e.g., sending commands and collecting data), and AIoT data transfer to or from an application server via the gNB and the Core Network (CN).

[0012] Non-Patent Document 5 also describes a general AIoT procedure (e.g., inventory) for Topology 2, i.e., communication between a base station and an AIoT device via an intermediate node (e.g., UE). The proposed general AIoT procedure for Topology 2 includes Options 1 and 2. In Option 1, the base station (gNB) initiates the AIoT procedure and schedules resources for both the link between the gNB and the UE and the link between the UE and the AIoT device. The gNB sends an inventory command to the UE, which forwards it to the AIoT device. The UE then collects data from the AIoT device and forwards it to the gNB. In Option 2, the AIoT procedure is initiated by an intermediate node (e.g., UE) under resources controlled by the gNB. Specifically, the gNB configures resources between the UE and the AIoT device. The UE then initiates the inventory procedure between the UE and the AIoT device. The UE then collects data from the AIoT device and transmits it to the network by reusing the existing Uu interface.

[0013] Regarding the communication characteristics of AIoT devices, Non-Patent Document 6 states that AIoT devices are responsive devices, not interactive devices. Non-Patent Document 6 states that in responsive communication, a network node (gNB, intermediate node, or assist node) or a UE reader sends an interrogation signal to the AIoT device, and the AIoT device responds to the interrogation based on pre-configured or programmed functions. For example, in an initial access procedure, the AIoT device is interrogated by the network or UE reader through an initial access interrogation signal, and the device feeds back UE identification information and an encoded security challenge.

[0014] Non-Patent Document 6 includes the following description regarding control plane protocols and control signaling procedures for AIoT devices: Different interrogation signals (bit streams) can be used for different purposes. Based on the received bit stream, a state machine directs signals to the target stored control functions in a shift register or control module. The control functions in the AIoT device can be pre-set or pre-programmed control signaling functions stored in a shift register (memory). Alternatively, the control functions in the AIoT device can be thin protocol state control modules.

[0015] Non-Patent Document 6 includes the following description regarding authentication and security for AIoT devices: The AIoT device is a responsive device that backscatters or generates UE identification information and a security challenge response from a received authentication interrogator signal. The device's authentication is intercepted and communicated from the gNB to the core network. The gNB uses information about the core network to control the security of the AIoT device. One or more security interrogation signals are used to verify the integrity of the device. The security challenge response is backscattered or generated for each interrogation signal from pre-programmed security logic in a shift register or control module.

[0016] Huawei, "New SID: Study on solutions for Ambient IoT (Internet of Things) in NR", RP-234058, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #102, Edinburgh, UK, December 11-15, 20233GPP TR 38.848 V18.0.0 (2023-09)3GPP TR 22.840 V19.0.0 (2023-12)OPPO, "Discussion on study of Ambient IoT in Rel-19", RP-232902, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #102, Edinburgh, Scotland, December 11-15, 2023vivo, "Views on Rel-19 Ambient IoT", RP-233051, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #102, Edinburgh, Scotland, December 11-15, 2023CATT, "Ambient IoT in Rel-19", RP-233014, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #102, Edinburgh, Scotland, December 11-15, 2023

[0017] The inventors have considered supporting AIoT devices in 5G NR and other cellular networks and have found various challenges. One of these challenges is how to manage AIoT devices without RRC states. Non-Patent Document 5 discloses that in a general AIoT procedure, a base station in Topology 1 or an intermediate node in Topology 2 sends commands to an AIoT device, and data collected from the AIoT device is forwarded to an application server via the gNB and core network. Non-Patent Document 6 discloses that a state machine in the AI ​​device directs a query signal bit stream to a target stored control function in a shift register or control module. Non-Patent Document 6 also discloses that the control signaling function can be a pre-configured / pre-programmed control signaling function stored in a shift register (memory) or a thin protocol state control module. However, neither Non-Patent Document 5 nor Non-Patent Document 6, nor other documents, teaches how to specifically manage AIoT devices (e.g., in a network) without RRC states.

[0018] Another of these challenges relates to the details of random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) methods for AIoT devices. Non-Patent Document 6 describes that in the initial access procedure, an AIoT device is interrogated by a network or a UE reader through an initial access interrogation signal, and the device feeds back UE identification information and an encoded security challenge. Non-Patent Document 6 also states that different interrogation signals (bit streams) can be used for different purposes. However, neither Non-Patent Document 6 nor other documents provide sufficient teaching on the details of random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) methods for AIoT devices.

[0019] Yet another of these challenges relates to the details of registration and authentication / authorization methods for AIoT devices. Non-Patent Document 6 describes that an AIoT device backscatters or generates UE identification information and a security challenge response from a received authentication interrogator signal. Non-Patent Document 6 also teaches that device authentication is intercepted and communicated from a gNB to a core network. Non-Patent Document 6 further discloses that a gNB controls the security of AIoT devices using information about the core network. However, neither Non-Patent Document 6 nor other documents provide sufficient teachings about the details of registration and authentication / authorization methods for AIoT devices.

[0020] One of the objectives to be achieved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification is to provide an apparatus, a method, and a program that contribute to solving at least one of multiple problems, including the above-mentioned problem, related to supporting AIoT devices in a cellular network. It should be noted that this objective is only one of multiple objectives to be achieved by the multiple embodiments disclosed in this specification. Other objectives or objectives and novel features will become apparent from the description of this specification or the accompanying drawings.

[0021] In a first aspect, an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting is configured to communicate with a base station or an intermediate node, and the AIoT device is configured to control transitions between states of the AIoT device based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

[0022] In a second aspect, a method performed by an AIoT device includes (a) communicating with a base station or an intermediate node, and (b) controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

[0023] In a third aspect, a base station is configured to communicate with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting directly or via an intermediate node, and to relay information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between states of the AIoT device.

[0024] In a fourth aspect, a method performed by a base station includes (a) communicating with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting directly or through an intermediate node, and (b) relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device.

[0025] In a fifth aspect, a core network node is configured to communicate with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node, and to control transitions of the AIoT device between states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

[0026] In a sixth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes (a) communicating with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node, and (b) controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

[0027] In a seventh aspect, an intermediate node is configured to perform cellular communication with a base station and wireless communication with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting, and is configured to relay information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between states of the AIoT device.

[0028] In an eighth aspect, a method performed by an intermediate node includes (a) conducting cellular communication with a base station, (b) conducting wireless communication with an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting, and (c) relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

[0029] In a ninth aspect, an AIoT device is configured to communicate with a base station or an intermediate node, and the AIoT device is configured to change the processing performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

[0030] In a tenth aspect, a method performed by an AIoT device includes (a) communicating with a base station or an intermediate node, and (b) modifying processing performed in response to receiving a particular signal from the base station or the intermediate node depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

[0031] In an eleventh aspect, an AIoT device is configured to communicate with a base station or an intermediate node. The AIoT device is configured to transmit a second signal encoding information for initial access by backscattering a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node. The AIoT device is configured to repeatedly receive the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly transmit the second signal the predetermined number of times.

[0032] In a twelfth aspect, a method performed by an AIoT device includes (a) receiving a first signal for initial access from a base station or an intermediate node, and (b) transmitting a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering the first signal, where the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the first signal a predetermined number of times, and the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the second signal the predetermined number of times.

[0033] In a thirteenth aspect, a base station is configured to transmit a first signal for initial access to an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting and receive a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, the base station is configured to repeatedly transmit the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly receive the second signal the predetermined number of times.

[0034] In a fourteenth aspect, a method performed by a base station includes (a) transmitting a first signal for initial access to an AIoT device powered by energy harvesting, and (b) receiving a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, where the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the first signal a predetermined number of times, and the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the second signal the predetermined number of times.

[0035] In a fifteenth aspect, a program includes a group of instructions (software code) that, when loaded into a computer, causes the computer to perform a method according to any of the above aspects.

[0036] According to the above-described aspects, it is possible to provide an apparatus, a method, and a program that contribute to solving at least one of several problems related to supporting AIoT devices in cellular networks.

[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a connection topology for an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a connection topology for an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a connection topology for an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a connection topology for an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a connection topology for an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a flow chart for an example operation of an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a flow chart for an example base station, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a flow chart for an example core network node, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a flow chart for an example intermediate node, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 10 illustrates an example sequence diagram for signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 11 illustrates an example sequence diagram for signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device, which may relate to one or more embodiments. FIG. 1 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of signaling related to initial access of an AIoT device, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of signaling related to initial access of an AIoT device, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of signaling related to initial access of an AIoT device, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of an AIoT device, according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a base station, according to one or more embodiments.1A and 1B are block diagrams illustrating example configurations of core network nodes and intermediate nodes, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0038] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and for clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations will be omitted as necessary.

[0039] The multiple embodiments described below may be used independently, or two or more embodiments may be combined as appropriate. These multiple embodiments may have different novel features. Therefore, these multiple embodiments may contribute to achieving different objectives or solving different problems, and may contribute to achieving different effects.

[0040] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may not relate to only one particular embodiment, but may also relate to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0041] The following embodiments will be described with a focus on the 3GPP 5th generation mobile communication system (5G system), but may also be applied to other wireless communication systems that support AIoT devices.

[0042] As used herein, depending on the context, "if" may be interpreted to mean "when," "while," "at or around the time," "after," "upon," "in response to determining," "in accordance with a determination," or "in response to detecting." These expressions may be interpreted to have the same meaning, depending on the context.

[0043] First, the configurations and operations of several network elements common to several embodiments will be described. Figures 1 to 4 show several example connection topologies for an AIoT device 1. Each element (network function) shown in Figures 1 to 4 can be implemented, for example, as a network element on dedicated hardware, as a software instance running on dedicated hardware, or as a virtualized function instantiated on an application platform.

[0044] The AIoT device 1 is an ambient power-enabled IoT device. The AIoT device 1 is an IoT device that is powered by energy harvesting and is battery-less or has limited energy storage capability (e.g., using a capacitor). Energy for the AIoT device 1 is supplied by harvesting radio waves, light, motion, heat, or other suitable power sources.

[0045] The types of AIoT devices 1 may be distinguished by whether they have power storage capabilities. Additionally or alternatively, the types of AIoT devices may be distinguished by the magnitude of their peak power consumption. Additionally or alternatively, the types of AIoT devices 1 may be distinguished by whether they have uplink amplification and / or downlink amplification. Additionally or alternatively, the types of AIoT devices 1 may be distinguished by whether their uplink transmissions are backscattered transmissions on an externally supplied carrier or generated by the device's active RF components.

[0046] In one example, the AIoT device 1 may be either of the first or second types described in Non-Patent Document 1. The first type of AIoT device has a peak power consumption of about 1 μW or less, has energy storage, and does not have downlink or uplink amplification within the device. The uplink transmission of the first type of AIoT device is backscattered on an externally supplied carrier. The second type of AIoT device has a power consumption of several hundred μW or less, has energy storage, and has one or both downlink and uplink amplification. The uplink transmission of the second type of AIoT device is backscattered transmission on an externally supplied carrier or is generated by active RF components within the device.

[0047] The AIoT device 1 may have a shift register or a control module. The shift register or the control module may store multiple control functions. The control function in the AIoT device 1 may be a pre-configured or pre-programmed control signaling function stored in the shift register (or memory). Alternatively, the control function in the AIoT device 1 may be a thin protocol state control module. The thin protocol state control module may be a control module with simpler functions than the RRC state control module of existing UEs (e.g., Release 18 UEs, Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) devices).

[0048] Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4 correspond to Topology 1, Topology 2, Topology 3 with Downlink Assistance, and Topology 3 with Uplink Assistance, respectively, shown in Non-Patent Document 2. In Topology 1 shown in Figure 1, AIoT devices 1 communicate directly and bidirectionally with base stations 2. Communication between base stations 2 and AIoT devices 1 includes AIoT data and / or signaling. Base stations 2 may include multiple base stations. The base station that performs downlink transmissions to AIoT devices 1 may be different from the base station that receives uplink transmissions from AIoT devices 1.

[0049] In Topology 2 shown in Figure 2, an AIoT device 1 communicates bidirectionally with an intermediate node 5 located between the device and a base station 2. The intermediate node 5 may be a relay, an IAB node, a UE, or a repeater, depending on the Ambient IoT. The intermediate node 5 transfers AIoT data and / or signaling between the base station 2 and the AIoT device 1.

[0050] In the topology 3 with downlink assistance shown in Figure 3, the AIoT device 1 transmits data and / or signaling to the base station 2 and receives data and / or signaling from the assist node 6. In the topology 3 with uplink assistance shown in Figure 4, the AIoT device 1 receives data and / or signaling from the base station 2 and transmits data and / or signaling to the assist node 6. The assist node 6 may be a relay, an IAB node, a UE, or a repeater, which is compatible with Ambient IoT.

[0051] 1 to 4, the base station 2 belongs to a radio access network (RAN) 3. The RAN 3 includes one or more base stations 2. The RAN 3 may be an NG Radio Access Network (NG-RAN), and the base station 2 may be a gNB.

[0052] The base station 2 may include one or more transmitting nodes and one or more receiving nodes. Each transmitting node is configured to transmit a wireless signal to the AIoT device 1. Each receiving node is configured to receive a wireless signal transmitted by the AIoT device 1.

[0053] In the connection topologies of Figures 1 to 4, the base station 2 or RAN 3 is connected to a Core Network (CN) 4. The CN 4 includes one or more core network nodes. These core network nodes include one or more control plane nodes and one or more user plane (or data plane) nodes. In the case of a 5G system, the control plane nodes include an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), a Session Management Function (SMF), and other nodes (e.g., a Unified Data Management (UDM) and a Policy Control Function (PCF)), and the user plane nodes include a User Plane Function (UPF). The CN 4 may include new control plane nodes or new user plane nodes, or both, for support of AIoT devices.

[0054] In the connection topologies of Figures 1 to 4, the RAN 3, CN 4, intermediate node 5 (in the case of topology 2), and assist node 6 (in the case of topology 3) may forward AIoT data from the AIoT device 1 to the application server. Similarly, the RAN 3, CN 4, intermediate node 5 (in the case of topology 2), and assist node 6 (in the case of topology 3) may forward AIoT data from the application server to the AIoT device 1.

[0055] The AIoT device 1 may be referred to by other terms such as an AIoT wireless terminal, an AIoT mobile terminal, an AIoT mobile station, an AIoT wireless transmit receive unit (WTRU), an AIoT UE, or a UE in Ambient IoT. The base station 2 may be referred to by other terms such as a RAN node, an access point, or a radio station.

[0056] The base station 2 may include a Base Band Unit (BBU) and one or more Remote Radio Heads (RRHs). The RRHs may also be called Radio Units (RUs) or Transmission Reception Points (TRPs). Depending on the functional division between the BBU and the RRHs, in some implementations, the BBU may be the node hosting the gNB's RRC, Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), Radio Link Control (RLC), Medium Access Control (MAC), and upper physical (PHY) layers. In other implementations, the BBU may perform all digital signal processing, including lower PHY layer signal processing, and digital-to-analog (DA) and analog-to-digital (AD) conversion. The BBU may include a Central Unit (CU) (e.g., gNB-CU) and one or more Distributed Units (DUs) (e.g., gNB-DUs). The CU may be a logical node that hosts the RRC, SDAP, and PDCP protocols of the gNB (or the RRC and PDCP protocols of the gNB). The DU may be a logical node that hosts the RLC, MAC, and PHY layers of the gNB.

[0057] The user plane protocol stack of the air interface between the AIoT device 1 and the base station 2, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 may differ from that of the air interface of 3GPP Release 18 and earlier (e.g., Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), Evolved UTRA (E-UTRA), and NR). For example, the AIoT device 1 may host or support protocols equivalent to the PHY layer and some of the sublayers of Layer 2 (i.e., SDAP, PDCP, RLC, and MAC) in 3GPP Release 18 and earlier, which may be defined as new sublayers. Similarly, the functional blocks of the base station 2, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 for communication with the AIoT device 1 may host or support protocols equivalent to the PHY layer and some of the sublayers of Layer 2 in 3GPP Release 18 and earlier, which may be defined as new sublayers.

[0058] Each RRH includes RF components coupled to one or more antennas and may include lower PHY layer signal processing circuits depending on the functional division between the BBU and the RRHs. The RF components include at least an amplifier and a frequency converter.

[0059] First Embodiment This embodiment mainly provides details of state management of AIoT devices. A configuration example of a wireless communication system or network according to this embodiment may be the same as the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0060] FIG. 5 shows an example of the operation of the AIoT device 1. In step 501, the AIoT device 1 communicates with the base station 2 or intermediate node 5. The intermediate node 5 may be an assist node 6. The AIoT device 1 receives AIoT signaling transmitted by the base station 2 or intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) and transmits the AIoT signaling to the base station 2 or intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6). The AIoT device 1 may receive AIoT data transmitted from the base station 2 or intermediate node 5. The AIoT device 1 may transmit AIoT data to the base station 2 or intermediate node 5. In some implementations, the AIoT device 1 may perform backscatter transmission on an externally supplied carrier. In other implementations, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a signal generated by active RF components within the device.

[0061] In step 502, the AIoT device 1 controls the transition between multiple states of the AIoT device 1 based on signaling with the CN 4 via the base station 2 or via the intermediate node and the base station 2. The AIoT device 1 may control the transition between multiple states so that the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized within the AIoT device 1 matches the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized within the CN 4.

[0062] These multiple states may include a de-registered state and a registered state. The de-registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has not been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The de-registered state may be referred to as an IDLE or OFF state. The registered state may be referred to as an ON, active, or passive-active state.

[0063] These multiple states may be multiple Non-Access Stratum (NAS) states. In this case, the AIoT device 1 may determine its current Access Stratum (AS) state according to its current Non-Access state. In other words, the AIoT device 1 may link its AS state with its NAS state. The AS of the AIoT device 1 may recognize the NAS state of the AIoT device 1 and reuse it as its AS state.

[0064] The operation of the AIoT device 1 described with reference to Figure 5 allows the AIoT device 1 to manage its state without RRC states.

[0065] 6 shows an example of the operation of the base station 2. In step 601, the base station 2 communicates with the AIoT device 1 directly or via an intermediate node 5. The intermediate node 5 may be an assist node 6. The base station 2 transmits AIoT signaling to the AIoT device 1 directly or via the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6), and receives AIoT signaling from the AIoT device 1 directly or via the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6). The base station 2 may receive AIoT data transmitted by the AIoT device 1 directly or via the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6). The base station 2 may transmit AIoT data to the AIoT device 1 directly or via the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6). In some implementations, the base station 2 may receive signals backscattered by the AIoT device 1. In other implementations, the base station 2 may receive signals generated by active RF components within the AIoT device 1.

[0066] In step 602, the base station 2 relays information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 for transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device 1. The base station 2 may relay information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 to ensure that the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the AIoT device 1 matches the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the CN 4.

[0067] These multiple states may include a de-registered state and a registered state. The de-registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has not been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The de-registered state may be referred to as an IDLE or OFF state. The registered state may be referred to as an ON, active, or passive-active state. These multiple states may be multiple NAS states.

[0068] The base station 2 may transmit to the CN 4 the first information received from the AIoT device 1 or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information. Additionally or alternatively, the base station 2 may transmit to the AIoT device 1 fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the information received from the CN 4 or third information.

[0069] The operation of the base station 2 described with reference to Figure 6 helps the AIoT device 1 and CN4 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0070] Note that in step 602 or after step 602, the base station 2 may recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 in response to receiving a message from the CN 4. As described above, the multiple states of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 may be multiple NAS states. In this case, the base station 2 may determine the current AS state of the AIoT device 1 according to the current NAS state of the AIoT device 1. For example, a message sent from the CN 4 to the base station 2 may indicate successful registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1, a request for context setup for the AIoT device 1, or a request for a state change of the AIoT device 1. Based on this message, the base station 2 may recognize or determine the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1 corresponding to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1.

[0071] Alternatively, the base station 2 may autonomously recognize the current state of the AIoT device 1 through relaying (step 602) information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 for the state transition (e.g., NAS state transition) of the AIoT device 1. Specifically, the base station 2 may intercept signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4, and autonomously recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes. Based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes, the base station 2 may recognize or determine the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1 corresponding to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1. Alternatively, the base station 2 may be configured to understand (or recognize) at least a portion of the signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4.

[0072] These operations can enable the current state (e.g., AS state) of the AIoT device 1 managed in the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) to be consistent or linked with the current state (e.g., NAS state) of the AIoT device 1 managed in the CN 4.

[0073] Figure 7 shows an example of the operation of a core network node in CN4. The core network node may be one or more control plane nodes. The core network node may be an AMF or a new control plane node for supporting AIoT devices. In step 701, the core network node communicates with the AIoT device 1 via the base station 2, or via the base station 2 and an intermediate node 5. The intermediate node 5 may be an assist node 6. The core network node may request or trigger the base station 2 or the intermediate node 5 (or the assist node 6) to send AIoT signaling to the AIoT device 1. The core network node may request or trigger the base station 2 or the intermediate node 5 (or the assist node 6) to receive AIoT signaling from the AIoT device 1.

[0074] In step 702, the core network node controls the transition between multiple states of the AIoT device 1 based on signaling with the AIoT device 1 via the base station 2 or via the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) and the base station 2. The core network node may control the transition between multiple states so that the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the core network node or CN4 matches the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the AIoT device 1.

[0075] These multiple states may include a de-registered state and a registered state. The de-registered state may be a state in which one or both of the registration and authentication of the AIoT device 1 have not been successfully performed by the CN4. The registered state may be a state in which one or both of the registration and authentication of the AIoT device 1 have been successfully performed by the CN4. The de-registered state may be referred to as an IDLE or OFF state. The de-registered state may be referred to as an IDLE or OFF state. The registered state may be referred to as an ON, active, or passive-active state. These multiple states may be multiple NAS states.

[0076] The operation of the core network node described with reference to Figure 7 helps the AIoT device 1 and CN4 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0077] Note that in step 702 or after step 702, the core network node may notify the base station 2 of the current state of the AIoT device 1. The core network node may send a message to the base station 2 to prompt or trigger the base station 2 to recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1. For example, a message sent from the CN 4 to the base station 2 may indicate successful registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1, a request for context setup for the AIoT device 1, or a request for a state change of the AIoT device 1. As described above, the multiple states of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 may be multiple NAS states. In this case, the base station 2 may determine the current AS state of the AIoT device 1 according to the current NAS state of the AIoT device 1. For example, the base station 2 may recognize or determine the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1 corresponding to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1 based on a message from the core network node. These operations can enable the current state (e.g., AS state) of the AIoT device 1 managed in the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) to be consistent or linked with the current state (e.g., NAS state) of the AIoT device 1 managed in the CN 4.

[0078] 8 shows an example of the operation of the intermediate node 5. The intermediate node 5 may be an assist node 6. In step 801, the intermediate node 5 performs cellular communication with the base station 2. This cellular communication may include setting up a radio link between the base station 2 and the intermediate node 5, e.g., a radio bearer for carrying AIoT signaling or data for the AIoT device 1. This cellular communication may include configuration (e.g., scheduling or allocation of radio resources) for wireless communication between the intermediate node 5 and the AIoT device 1.

[0079] In step 802, the intermediate node 5 communicates wirelessly with the AIoT device 1. The intermediate node 5 transmits AIoT signaling to the AIoT device 1 and receives AIoT signaling from the AIoT device 1. The intermediate node 5 may receive AIoT data transmitted by the AIoT device 1. The intermediate node 5 may transmit AIoT data to the AIoT device 1. In some implementations, the intermediate node 5 may receive signals backscattered by the AIoT device 1. In other implementations, the intermediate node 5 may receive signals generated by active RF components within the AIoT device 1.

[0080] In step 803, the intermediate node 5 relays information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN4 for transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device 1. The intermediate node 5 may relay information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN4 to ensure that the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the AIoT device 1 matches the current state of the AIoT device 1 recognized in the CN4.

[0081] These multiple states may include a de-registered state and a registered state. The de-registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has not been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The registered state may be a state in which one or both of the AIoT device 1 has been successfully registered and authenticated by the CN4. The de-registered state may be referred to as an IDLE or OFF state. The registered state may be referred to as an ON, active, or passive-active state. These multiple states may be multiple NAS states.

[0082] The intermediate node 5 may transmit the first information received from the AIoT device 1 or the second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information to the base station 2 or to the CN4 via the base station 2. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate node 5 may transmit the fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the information received from the base station 2 or from the CN4 via the base station 2 or the third information to the AIoT device 1.

[0083] The operation of the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) described with reference to Figure 8 helps the AIoT device 1 and CN4 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0084] Note that in step 803 or after step 803, the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) may recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 in response to receiving a message from the base station 2 or from the CN 4 via the base station 2. As described above, the multiple states of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 may be multiple NAS states. In this case, the intermediate node 5 may determine the current AS state of the AIoT device 1 according to the current NAS state of the AIoT device 1. For example, a message sent from the base station 2 or the CN 4 to the intermediate node 5 may indicate successful registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1, a request for context setup for the AIoT device 1, or a request for a state change of the AIoT device 1. Based on this message, the intermediate node 5 may recognize or determine the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1 corresponding to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1.

[0085] Alternatively, the intermediate node 5 (or the assist node 6) may autonomously recognize the current state of the AIoT device 1 through relaying (step 803) information exchange between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4 for the state transition (e.g., NAS state transition) of the AIoT device 1. Specifically, the intermediate node 5 may intercept signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4, and autonomously recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes. Based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes, the intermediate node 5 may recognize or determine the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1 corresponding to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1. Alternatively, the base station 2 may be configured to understand (or recognize) at least a portion of the signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4.

[0086] These operations can enable the current state (e.g., NAS state or AS state or both) of the AIoT device 1 managed at the intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) to be consistent or linked with the current state (e.g., NAS state) of the AIoT device 1 managed at the CN4.

[0087] Figure 9 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The operations of the AIoT device 1, RAN 3, and CN 4 described below with reference to Figure 9 are detailed examples of the operations of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, and core network node described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Therefore, the matters described above with reference to Figures 5 to 7 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 9 as appropriate.

[0088] In steps 901 and 902, the state of AIoT device 1 managed by AIoT device 1 and the state of AIoT device 1 managed by CN4 (core network node) are both de-registered states. These states are the NAS states of AIoT device 1.

[0089] In step 910, the AIoT device 1 and CN4 perform procedures for registration, authentication, authorization, or first contact of the AIoT device 1. As a result, the AIoT device 1 transitions its NAS state from de-registered to registered (step 911). Similarly, the CN4 transitions the NAS state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 from de-registered to registered (step 912). In step 911, the AIoT device 1 changes its AS state in response to the transition of its NAS state. In other words, the AIoT device 1 links its AS state with its NAS state. The AIoT device 1 transitions its AS state to a state corresponding to the NAS registered state, for example, to ON.

[0090] In step 920, the CN4 sends a message to the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) indicating that authentication (or registration) is complete. The message may be a signaling message between the CN4 and the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2), such as an NG Application Protocol (NGAP) message or an S1 Application Protocol (S1AP) message. Based on the message in step 920, the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the current state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2). Specifically, the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the current AS state (e.g., ON state, AS ON state) of the AIoT device 1, which corresponds to the current NAS state (e.g., registered state) of the AIoT device 1 (step 923).

[0091] In step 930, the AIoT device 1 and CN4 perform a connection release procedure. As a result, the AIoT device 1 changes its NAS state from registered to de-registered (step 931). Similarly, the CN4 changes the NAS state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 from registered to de-registered (step 932).

[0092] In step 940, the CN4 sends a message to the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) indicating the connection release of the AIoT device 1. The message may be a signaling message between the CN4 and the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2), such as an NGAP message or an S1AP message. Based on the message in step 940, the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the current state of the AIoT device 1 managed in the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2). Based on the message in step 940, the RAN3 (e.g., base station 2) may stop, cancel, or release management of the NAS state of the AIoT device 1.

[0093] The signaling procedure described with reference to Figure 9 helps the AIoT device 1, RAN 3, and CN 4 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0094] Figure 10 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The operations of the AIoT device 1, RAN 3, and CN 4 described below with reference to Figure 10 are detailed examples of the operations of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, and core network node described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Therefore, the matters described above with reference to Figures 5 to 7 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 10 as appropriate.

[0095] In steps 1001 and 1002, the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 (core network node) are both IDLE states. These states may be the NAS states of the AIoT device 1.

[0096] In step 1010, the AIoT device 1 and CN4 perform procedures for registration, authentication, authorization, or first contact of the AIoT device 1. As a result, the AIoT device 1 transitions its state from IDLE to ACTIVE (step 1011). Similarly, the CN4 transitions the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 from IDLE to ACTIVE (step 1012). Furthermore, during the registration, authentication, authorization, or first contact procedures of the AIoT device 1, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the state of the AIoT device 1 and transitions the current state of the AIoT device 1 to ACTIVE (step 1013). The RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may intercept signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and CN4 and autonomously recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes. Alternatively, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may be configured to understand (or recognize) at least some of the signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4.

[0097] In step 1030, the AIoT device 1 and CN4 perform a connection release procedure. As a result, the AIoT device 1 transitions its state from ACTIVE to IDLE (step 1031). Similarly, the CN4 transitions the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 from ACTIVE to IDLE (step 1032). Furthermore, during the connection release procedure of the AIoT device 1, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the state of the AIoT device 1 and transitions the current state of the AIoT device 1 to IDLE (step 1033). The RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may intercept signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and CN4 and autonomously recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 based on the interception. Alternatively, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may be configured to understand (or recognize) at least some of the signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4.

[0098] The signaling procedure described with reference to Figure 10 helps the AIoT device 1, RAN 3, and CN 4 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0099] Figure 11 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The network 8 shown in Figure 11 includes a RAN 3 and a CN 4. The operation of the AIoT device 1 and network 8 described below with reference to Figure 11 is a detailed example of the operation of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, core network node, and intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) described with reference to Figures 5 to 8. Therefore, the matters described above with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 11 as appropriate.

[0100] In steps 1101 and 1102, the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the network 8 (e.g., CN4, or CN4 and RAN3) are both IDLE states. These states may be the NAS states of the AIoT device 1.

[0101] In step 1111, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, transmits signaling A to the AIoT device 1 to transition to the ACTIVE state. The AIoT device 1 determines the signal to transmit depending on the type of signaling or signal received. For example, the AIoT device 1 may backscatter different signals depending on the type of signaling or signal received. In other words, the AIoT device 1 may encode different information into the backscattered signal depending on the type of signaling or signal received. The AIoT device 1 may generate a radio signal in its active RF device carrying different information depending on the type of signaling or signal received. In step 1112, based on receiving signaling A, the AIoT device 1 transmits a response (e.g., acknowledgement) associated with signaling A to the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6.

[0102] In step 1113, the network 8 sends signaling A for confirmation to the AIoT device 1. If the AIoT device 1 receives signaling A again after responding to signaling A, it may recognize this as confirmation signaling. Step 1113 may be omitted. Through the signaling of steps 1111 and 1112 (or steps 1111 to 1113), the AIoT device 1 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1121). Similarly, the network 8 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1122). In other words, the network 8 recognizes that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is the ACTIVE state.

[0103] In step 1131, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, transmits signaling B for data transmission to the AIoT device 1. In step 1132, based on receiving the signaling B for data transmission, the AIoT device 1 transmits data associated with signaling B toward the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6.

[0104] In step 1141, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, sends signaling C to the AIoT device 1 for transition to the IDLE state. In step 1142, based on receiving signaling C, the AIoT device 1 may send a response (e.g., acknowledgement) associated with signaling C to the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6. Step 1142 may be omitted. Based on the signaling in step 1141 (or steps 1141 and 1142), the AIoT device 1 transitions its current state to the IDLE state (step 1151). Similarly, the network 8 transitions its current state to the IDLE state (step 1152). In other words, the network 8 recognizes that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is the IDLE state.

[0105] The signaling procedures described with reference to Figure 11 are realized by pre-associating what is transmitted from the network 8 (e.g., signaling or signals) with what the AIoT device transmits in response (e.g., signals or data). These signaling procedures help the AIoT device 1 and the network 8 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0106] Figure 12 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The network 8 shown in Figure 12 includes a RAN 3 and a CN 4. The operation of the AIoT device 1 and network 8 described below with reference to Figure 12 is a detailed example of the operation of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, core network node, and intermediate node 5 (or assist node 6) described with reference to Figures 5 to 8. Therefore, the matters described above with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 12 as appropriate.

[0107] In steps 1201 and 1202, the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the network 8 (e.g., CN4, or CN4 and RAN3) are both IDLE states. These states may be the NAS states of the AIoT device 1.

[0108] In step 1211, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, transmits signaling A for a state transition to the AIoT device 1. The AIoT device 1 determines the next process to be performed based on the reception of signaling A for a state transition based on state management within the AIoT device 1. For example, the AIoT device 1 performs a process to move the current state of the AIoT device 1 to an ACTIVE state in response to the reception of signaling A for a state transition based on the fact that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is an IDLE state. In step 1212, the AIoT device 1 transmits a response (e.g., an acknowledgement) associated with signaling A to the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6 based on the current state and the reception of signaling A. Alternatively, the AIoT device 1 transmits signaling A and a response associated with the current state to the network 8 based on the reception of signaling A.

[0109] In step 1213, the network 8 sends signaling A for confirmation to the AIoT device 1. Step 1213 may be omitted. Through the signaling of steps 1211 and 1212 (or steps 1211 to 1213), the AIoT device 1 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1221). Similarly, the network 8 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1222). In other words, the network 8 recognizes that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is the ACTIVE state.

[0110] In step 1231, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, transmits signaling B for data transmission to the AIoT device 1. In step 1232, when the current state of the AIoT device 1 is ACTIVE and the AIoT device 1 receives signaling B for data transmission, the AIoT device 1 transmits data associated with signaling B to the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6.

[0111] In step 1241, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6, transmits signaling A for state transition to the AIoT device 1. Note that the signaling A transmitted in step 1241 is the same as the signaling A transmitted in step 1211. However, the AIoT device 1 performs processing to transition the current state of the AIoT device 1 to an IDLE state in response to receiving the signaling A for state transition, based on the fact that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is an ACTIVE state. In step 1242, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a response (e.g., an acknowledgement) to the network 8, specifically the base station 2, the intermediate node 5, or the assist node 6 based on the reception of signaling A. Step 1242 may be omitted. Based on the signaling in step 1241 (or steps 1241 and 1242), the AIoT device 1 transitions the current state of the AIoT device 1 to an IDLE state (step 1251). Similarly, the network 8 transitions the current state of the AIoT device 1 to the IDLE state (step 1252). In other words, the network 8 recognizes that the current state of the AIoT device 1 is the IDLE state.

[0112] The signaling procedures described with reference to Figure 12 are realized by pre-associating what is transmitted from the network 8 (e.g., signaling or signals), what the AIoT device transmits in response thereto (e.g., signals or data), and the state of the AIoT device. These signaling procedures help the AIoT device 1 and the network 8 manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0113] Figure 13 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The network 8 shown in Figure 13 includes a RAN 3 and a CN 4. The operations of the AIoT device 1, intermediate node 5, and network 8 described below with reference to Figure 13 are detailed examples of the operations of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, core network node, and intermediate node 5 described with reference to Figures 5 to 8. Therefore, the matters described above with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 13 as appropriate.

[0114] In steps 1301 and 1302, the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the network 8 (e.g., CN4, or CN4 and RAN3) are both IDLE states. These states may be the NAS states of the AIoT device 1.

[0115] In step 1311, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, sends a signaling message including AIoT device-related information to the intermediate node 5. The signaling message may be an RRC message, such as an RRC Reconfiguration message. The AIoT device-related information may include at least one of device settings and signaling settings required to realize communication between the network 8 and the AIoT device 1. The AIoT device-related information (or the included device settings and signaling settings) may be dedicated settings specific to the AIoT device 1, or may be settings common to multiple AIoT devices including the AIoT device 1.

[0116] The device configuration may include configuration of a radio link between the base station 2 and the intermediate node 5, for example a radio bearer for carrying AIoT signaling or data for the AIoT device 1. Additionally or alternatively, the device configuration may include identification information of the AIoT device 1.

[0117] The signaling configuration may include a configuration for wireless communication between the intermediate node 5 and the AIoT device 1, such as information about signaling used in the wireless communication. The information about the signaling may include, for example, a type of transmission signal sequence or transmission signal transmitted from the intermediate node 5, identification information for the type of the transmission signal sequence or transmission signal, a type of reception signal sequence or reception signal received by the intermediate node 5 from the AIoT device 1, or identification information for the type of the reception signal sequence or reception signal, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the signaling configuration may include at least one of a relationship between the state of the AIoT device 1 and a transmission signal sequence or a transmission signal type, and a relationship between the state of the AIoT device 1 and a reception signal sequence or a reception signal type. For example, a transmission signal sequence or a transmission signal type (or a reception signal sequence or a reception signal type) used by an AIoT device in a certain state (e.g., an IDLE state) may be specified separately from a transmission signal sequence or a transmission signal type (or a reception signal sequence or a reception signal type) used by an AIoT device in another certain state (e.g., an ACTIVE state). Additionally or alternatively, the signaling configuration may include radio resource configuration (e.g., radio resource scheduling or allocation, beam information) used for wireless communication between the intermediate node 5 and the AIoT device 1.

[0118] In step 1312, the intermediate node 5 sends a response message to the network 8 (base station 2), which may be an RRC message, for example an RRC Reconfiguration Complete message.

[0119] In step 1321, the network 8, specifically the base station 2 or CN4, sends a message to the intermediate node 5 requesting the transmission of AIoT signaling for one or more AIoT devices in the IDLE state. Based on or in response to the message, the intermediate node 5 transmits signaling A for transitioning to the ACTIVE state to one or more AIoT devices, including the AIoT device 1. The transmission of signaling A by the intermediate node 5 may be performed for each AIoT device or may be performed in a broadcast manner to multiple AIoT devices. The message sent by the network 8 to the intermediate node 5 may include information indicating a specific signal (transmission signal sequence or type) to be transmitted by the intermediate node 5. Alternatively, as described above, the network 8 may pre-configure or notify the intermediate node 5 of a specific signal (e.g., transmission signal sequence or type) for AIoT devices in the IDLE state. In this case, the message may simply include an instruction to transmit a signal for the AIoT devices in the IDLE state without specifying a specific signal sequence or type.

[0120] The AIoT device 1 may determine the signal to transmit depending on the type of signaling or signal received. For example, the AIoT device 1 may encode different information into the backscattered signal depending on the type of signaling or signal received. The AIoT device 1 may generate a wireless signal in its active RF device carrying different information depending on the type of signaling or signal received. In step 1322, the AIoT device 1 transmits a response (e.g., acknowledgement) to the intermediate node 5 based on receiving signaling A. The intermediate node 5 forwards the response received from the AIoT device 1 to the network 8. The intermediate node 5 may transmit information included in the response received from the AIoT device 1 or information derived or determined from the response to the network 8.

[0121] Through the signaling of steps 1321 and 1322, the AIoT device 1 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1331). Similarly, the network 8 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1332). Furthermore, the intermediate node 5 may also recognize or manage the current state of the AIoT device 1. In this case, the intermediate node 5 transitions its current state to the ACTIVE state (step 1333). Alternatively, the intermediate node 5 may not recognize or manage the current state of the AIoT device 1.

[0122] In step 1341, the network 8, specifically the base station 2 or CN4, sends a message to the intermediate node 5 requesting data transmission for one or more AIoT devices in the ACTIVE state. Based on or in response to the message, the intermediate node 5 transmits signaling B for AIoT data transmission to one or more AIoT devices, including the AIoT device 1. In step 1342, the AIoT device 1 transmits data to the intermediate node 5 based on receiving signaling B for data transmission. The transmission of signaling B by the intermediate node 5 may be performed for each AIoT device, or may be performed in a broadcast manner to multiple AIoT devices. The message sent by the network 8 to the intermediate node 5 may include information indicating a specific signal (transmission signal sequence or type) to be transmitted by the intermediate node 5. Alternatively, as described above, the network 8 may pre-set or notify the intermediate node 5 of a specific signal (e.g., a transmission signal sequence or type) for an AIoT device in an ACTIVE state, in which case the message may simply include an instruction to transmit a signal for the AIoT device in an ACTIVE state without specifying a specific signal sequence or type.

[0123] The signaling procedure described with reference to Figure 13 helps the AIoT device 1 and the network 8 (and intermediate node 5) manage the state of the AIoT device 1 without RRC states.

[0124] Second Embodiment This embodiment mainly provides details of random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) of an AIoT device. The configuration example of a wireless communication system or network according to this embodiment may be the same as the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0125] In one implementation, a signal used for random access (at least for initial access) and transmitted by the network (e.g., base station 2, intermediate node 5, assist node 6) is defined. The AIoT device 1 transmits in response to the signal as needed or at a predetermined timing, thereby transmitting appropriate information (e.g., information for initial access) to the network. In one example, the AIoT device 1 may perform backscatter transmission. Specifically, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a second signal encoding information for initial access by backscattering a first signal for initial access from the base station 2, intermediate node 5, or assist node 6. Alternatively, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a signal generated by active RF components within the device.

[0126] The network may repeatedly transmit the signal, and the AIoT device 1 may also repeatedly transmit (e.g., backscatter transmission). The number of repetitions may be predetermined. The network may notify the AIoT device 1 of the number of repetitions in advance. Such repeated transmission and reception is not limited to the transmission and reception of AIoT signaling or signals for initial access, but can be broadly applied to the transmission and reception of signaling, data, or signals by the AIoT device 1. Such repeated transmission and reception is expected to contribute to increasing the likelihood that the network will successfully receive a signal from an AIoT device with low or limited transmission power. For example, this is expected to be particularly effective when the AIoT device or network (e.g., intermediate node 5) is moving.

[0127] The above-described operation of the AIoT device 1 and the network (e.g., base station 2, intermediate node 5, assist node 6) can provide details of a random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) method for the AIoT device.

[0128] Figure 14 shows an example of an initial access procedure for an AIoT device. The network 8 shown in Figure 14 includes a base station 2, an intermediate node 5, or an assist node 6, or any combination thereof. The matters described in the first embodiment with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 14 as appropriate.

[0129] In step 1401, the network 8 is triggered to transmit a signal used for random access (e.g., initial access) of the AIoT device 1. This may be a method similar to existing paging. That is, the base station 2, intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 may start transmitting a signal used for random access (e.g., initial access) of the AIoT device 1 in response to a paging request from the CN 4.

[0130] In response to the trigger in step 1401, the network 8 sends AIoT signaling A for random access (e.g., initial access) in step 1411. In step 1412, in response to receiving signaling A, the AIoT device 1 sends random access signaling.

[0131] In step 1421, the network 8 and the AIoT device 1 may repeatedly perform the signal transmission and reception of steps 1411 and 1422. Step 1421 may be omitted.

[0132] In step 1431, the network 8 transmits signaling B corresponding to or indicating successful random access. In response to receiving signaling B, in step 1432, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a response (e.g., acknowledgement) to the network 8. Step 1432 may be omitted.

[0133] The procedure of Figure 14 can provide details of a random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) method for AIoT devices.

[0134] Figure 15 shows an example of an initial access procedure for an AIoT device. Figure 15 shows Device Originated (DO) or DO-Device terminated Triggered (DO-DTT) type communication. The network 8 shown in Figure 15 includes a base station 2, an intermediate node 5, or an assist node 6, or any combination thereof. The matters described in the first embodiment with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description regarding Figure 15 as appropriate.

[0135] In step 1501, the network 8 repeatedly transmits signaling A used for random access (e.g., initial access) of the AIoT device 1. The network 8 may transmit signaling A periodically.

[0136] In step 1502, the AIoT device 1 is triggered to transmit data or access the network 8 for data transmission. This trigger may be an event trigger or a periodic trigger. In step 1503, in response to the trigger in step 1502 and in response to receiving signaling A, the AIoT device 1 transmits random access signaling.

[0137] In step 1511, the network 8 and the AIoT device 1 may repeatedly perform the signal transmission and reception of steps 1501 and 1503. Step 1511 may be omitted.

[0138] In step 1521, the network 8 transmits signaling B corresponding to or indicating successful random access. In response to receiving signaling B, in step 1522, the AIoT device 1 may transmit a response (e.g., acknowledgement) to the network 8. Step 1522 may be omitted.

[0139] The procedure in Figure 15 can provide details of a random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) method for AIoT devices.

[0140] Figure 16 shows an example of an initial access procedure for an AIoT device. The network 8 shown in Figure 16 includes a RAN 3 and a CN 4. The matters described in the first embodiment with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 16 as appropriate.

[0141] In step 1601, the network 8, specifically the base station 2, sends a signaling message including AIoT device-related information to the intermediate node 5. The signaling message may be an RRC message, such as an RRC Reconfiguration message. The AIoT device-related information may include at least one of device settings and signaling settings required to realize communication between the network 8 and the AIoT device 1. The AIoT device-related information (or the included device settings and signaling settings) may be dedicated settings specific to the AIoT device 1, or may be settings common to multiple AIoT devices including the AIoT device 1.

[0142] The device configuration may include configuration of a radio link between the base station 2 and the intermediate node 5, for example a radio bearer for carrying AIoT signaling or data for the AIoT device 1. Additionally or alternatively, the device configuration may include identification information of the AIoT device 1.

[0143] The signaling configuration may include a configuration for wireless communication between the intermediate node 5 and the AIoT device 1, such as information about the signaling used in the wireless communication. The information about the signaling may include, for example, a type of transmission signal sequence or transmission signal transmitted from the intermediate node 5, identification information for the type of the transmission signal sequence or transmission signal, a type of reception signal sequence or reception signal received by the intermediate node 5 from the AIoT device 1, or identification information for the type of the reception signal sequence or reception signal, or any combination thereof. Specifically, the signaling configuration may specify at least one of a transmission signal sequence or transmission signal type for initial access and a reception signal sequence or reception signal type for initial access. Additionally or alternatively, the signaling configuration may include a radio resource configuration (e.g., radio resource scheduling or allocation, beam information) used in the wireless communication between the intermediate node 5 and the AIoT device 1.

[0144] In step 1602, the intermediate node 5 sends a response message to the network 8 (base station 2), which may be an RRC message, for example an RRC Reconfiguration Complete message.

[0145] In step 1611, the network 8, specifically the base station 2 or CN4, sends a message to the intermediate node 5 requesting the transmission of AIoT signaling for random access (e.g., initial access). Based on or in response to the message, in step 1612, signaling A for random access (e.g., initial access) is transmitted to the AIoT device 1. The intermediate node 5 may transmit signaling A for each AIoT device or may broadcast the signaling A to multiple AIoT devices. The message in step 1611 may include information indicating a specific signal (transmission signal sequence or type) to be transmitted by the intermediate node 5. Alternatively, as described above, the network 8 may pre-configure or notify the intermediate node 5 of a specific signal (e.g., transmission signal sequence or type) for initial access. In this case, the message may simply include an instruction to transmit a signal for initial access without specifying a specific signal sequence or type.

[0146] The AIoT device 1 may determine the signal to transmit depending on the type of signaling or signal received. For example, the AIoT device 1 may encode different information into the backscattered signal depending on the type of signaling or signal received. The AIoT device 1 may generate a wireless signal in its active RF device carrying different information depending on the type of signaling or signal received. In step 1613, the AIoT device 1 transmits random access signaling to the intermediate node 5 based on receiving signaling A.

[0147] In step 1614, the intermediate node 5 forwards the random access signaling received from the AIoT device 1 to the network 8. The intermediate node 5 may transmit information contained in the random access signaling received from the AIoT device 1, or information derived or determined from the random access signaling, to the network 8.

[0148] The procedure of Figure 16 can provide details of a random access (e.g., initial access, response to paging) method for AIoT devices.

[0149] Third Embodiment This embodiment mainly provides details of a method for registering and authenticating / authorizing an AIoT device. The configuration example of a wireless communication system or network according to this embodiment may be the same as the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0150] In response to receiving an initial access (e.g., registration request) signal from the AIoT device 1, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2), intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 transmits to the CN 4 first information (e.g., bit string) received from the AIoT device 1 or second information (e.g., information derived from the bit string) obtained or derived from the first information. The RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2), intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 may acquire or derive the second information by performing predetermined processing on the first information.

[0151] In response to receiving a context setup request (e.g., registration confirmation) for the AIoT device 1 from the CN 4, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2), intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 transmits the third information received from the CN or fourth information (e.g., a bit string converted from the information) obtained or derived from the third information to the AIoT device 1. The RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2), intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 may obtain or derive the fourth information by performing predetermined processing on the third information.

[0152] The operations of the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2), intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 described above can provide details on how to register and authenticate / authorize AIoT devices.

[0153] Figure 17 shows an example of signaling related to state transitions of an AIoT device. The RAN 3 shown in Figure 17 may be the intermediate node 5 or the assist node 6. In other words, the operations of the RAN 3 described below with reference to Figure 17 may be performed by the intermediate node 5 or the assist node 6. The matters described in the first embodiment with reference to Figures 5 to 8 can be applied to or combined with the following description of Figure 17 as appropriate.

[0154] In steps 1701 and 1702, the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the AIoT device 1 and the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 (core network node) are both IDLE states. These states may be the NAS states of the AIoT device 1.

[0155] In step 1710, the AIoT device 1 and CN4 perform procedures for registration, authentication, authorization, or first contact of the AIoT device 1. As a result, the AIoT device 1 transitions its state from IDLE to ACTIVE (step 1721). Similarly, the CN4 transitions the state of the AIoT device 1 managed by the CN4 from IDLE to ACTIVE (step 1722). Furthermore, during the registration, authentication, authorization, or first contact procedures of the AIoT device 1, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) recognizes or determines the state of the AIoT device 1 and transitions the current state of the AIoT device 1 to ACTIVE (step 1723). The RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may intercept signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and CN4 and autonomously recognize or determine the current state of the AIoT device 1 based on the intercepted signaling, messages, or codes. Alternatively, the RAN 3 (e.g., base station 2) may be configured to understand (or recognize) at least some of the signaling, messages, or codes for registration or authentication exchanged between the AIoT device 1 and the CN 4.

[0156] A specific example of the signaling performed in step 1710 is shown below. In step 1711, the CN 4 requests paging of the AIoT device 1, for example, paging for initial access, from the RAN 3. Step 1711 may be omitted.

[0157] In step 1712, the RAN 3 transmits signaling for initial access in response to the paging request in step 1711 or autonomously. In response to receiving the signaling for initial access (step 1712), the AIoT device 1 transmits initial access signaling to the RAN 3 in step 1713. The initial access signaling includes, for example, the device identification information of the AIoT device 1 and upper layer (e.g., NAS layer) information. In step 1714, the RAN 3 sends an initial device message to the CN 4. The initial device message may include the device identification information received from the AIoT device 1 or information derived from the device identification information. Similarly, the initial device message may include the upper layer information received from the AIoT device 1 or information derived from the upper layer identification information.

[0158] In step 1715, the CN4 sends a request for context setup (e.g., registration confirm) for the AIoT device 1 to the RAN 3. In step 1716, the RAN 3 sends signaling indicating successful initial access. In response to receiving the signaling, the AIoT device 1 may send a response (e.g., acknowledge) to the RAN 3 in step 1717. Step 1717 may be omitted. In step 1718, a response regarding the context setup for the AIoT device 1 may be sent to the CN4. Step 1718 may be omitted.

[0159] The procedure in Figure 17 can provide details on how to register and authenticate / authorize AIoT devices.

[0160] <Other Embodiments> To deal with possible errors in state management performed by the shift register or control module in the AIoT device 1 (e.g., state inconsistency between the AIoT device 1 and the network (e.g., CN4)), the AIoT device 1, base station 2, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 may operate as follows. AIoT signaling for initializing or resetting the state management of the AIoT device 1 may be specified. The base station 2, intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 may transmit AIoT signaling indicating either an instruction to initialize or reset the state management of the AIoT device 1, an instruction to stop transmitting all or predetermined (e.g., data) information, or an instruction to stop all or predetermined processing. The base station 2, intermediate node 5, or assist node 6 may transmit this signaling based on a request from the CN4. Similarly, the intermediate node 5 or assist node 6 may transmit this signaling based on a request from the base station 2. In response to receiving the signaling, the AIoT device 1 may initialize or reset its state management, may stop sending all or certain (e.g., data) information, or may stop all or certain processing.

[0161] The AIoT device 1 may use different transmission methods or procedures depending on the type or combination of information elements or data elements transmitted by the AIoT device 1. The types or combinations of information elements or data elements transmitted by the AIoT device 1 may include, for example: (1) only the device identification information of the AIoT device 1; (2) a combination of device identification information and specific fixed information (e.g., item information); and (3) a combination of device identification information and variable information (e.g., information measured by a sensor).

[0162] For example, in the cases of (1) and (2), since the network aims to always collect the same information, at least one signal (transmission signal sequence or type of transmission signal) may be defined or set in the AIoT device 1 for collecting the information. In the case of (3), at least one signal may be defined or set in the AIoT device 1 for collecting the information, or multiple signals each associated with different content of variable information (e.g., the content or status of information measured by a sensor) may be defined or set in the AIoT device 1. The AIoT device 1 may transmit information in response to receiving a signal (transmission signal sequence or type of transmission signal) corresponding to the variable information it possesses.

[0163] The AIoT device 1 may use different transmission methods or procedures depending on the traffic type, specifically Device Terminated (DT) or Device Originated (DO).

[0164] The AIoT device 1 may change the device identification information included in the AIoT signaling and data for source or source device identification before and after the completion of registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1 to the CN 4. Similarly, the base station 2, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 may also change the device identification information included in the AIoT signaling and data for target or destination device identification before and after the completion of registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1 to the CN 4. For example, a full device identifier may be used before the completion of registration or authentication of the AIoT device 1 to the CN 4. In contrast, a truncated device identifier, a simplified device identifier, or other temporary identifier may be used after the completion of registration or authentication. The bit length of the device identifier used after the completion of registration or authentication may be shorter than the bit length of the device identifier used before the completion of registration or authentication.

[0165] As already explained, the base station 2 or node transmitting to the AIoT device 1 may be different from the base station 2 or node receiving from the AIoT device 1. In this configuration, multiple adjacent or nearby base stations 2 or nodes may share information about the AIoT device 1 with each other. For example, a base station 2 or node may send a message to another base station or node. The message may include information about the AIoT device 1. Additionally or alternatively, the message may indicate or include information indicating that the base station 2 or node supports communication with one or more AIoT devices, including the AIoT device 1, is performing or intending such communication, and / or requests cooperation or coordination for such communication. The other base station or node receiving the message may send a response message. The response message may indicate or include information indicating that it supports (or does not support) communication with one or more AIoT devices, is performing or intending such communication, and / or responds to a request for cooperation or coordination for such communication. The message and the response message may be Xn Application Protocol (XnAP) messages. This allows the other base station or node to take appropriate action if it receives a signal or data from the AIoT device 1 while the base station 2 or node is communicating with the AIoT device 1. For example, the other base station or node may transmit the signal or data (or their contents) to a predetermined CN4 or to the base station 2 or node.

[0166] In the above embodiment, the AIoT device 1 has been described assuming no RRC state, but this may be rephrased as having only one possible state from the perspective of the RRC layer. For example, the AS state in the above embodiment may be synonymous with the RRC state.

[0167] Next, configuration examples of the AIoT device 1, base station 2, core network node, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 related to the above-described embodiments will be described below. FIG. 18 shows a configuration example of the AIoT device 1. Referring to FIG. 18, the AIoT device 1 includes an energy harvester 1801, a power management unit 1802, an energy storage unit 1803, a controller 1804, a memory 1805, an RF circuit 1806, and an antenna 1807. The energy harvester 1801 converts radio waves, light, motion, heat, or other energy into electric power. The power management unit 1802 stores the power generated by the energy harvester 1801 in the energy storage unit 1803 (e.g., a capacitor) and controls the power supply to the controller 1804, the memory 1805, and the RF circuit 1806.

[0168] Controller 1804 receives signaling, data, and signals via RF circuitry 1806. Controller 1804 accesses memory 1805 and generates signaling, data, and signals that are transmitted via RF circuitry 1806. Controller 1804 may be pre-set or pre-programmed control signaling functions stored in memory 1805 (e.g., shift registers). Alternatively, controller 1804 may be a thin protocol state control module.

[0169] The RF circuit 1806 is coupled to an antenna 1807. If the AIoT device 1 is a device that performs backscatter communication, the RF circuit 1806 may include RF circuits such as a demodulator and a modulator (frequency multiplier). If the AIoT device 1 generates an uplink signal using its own active RF components, the RF circuit 1806 may be an active RF transceiver.

[0170] Figure 19 shows an example configuration of a base station 2. Referring to Figure 19, the base station 2 includes a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver 1901, a network interface 1903, a processor 1904, and a memory 1905. The RF transceiver 1901 performs analog RF signal processing for communicating with the AIoT device 1, the intermediate node 5, the assist node 6, and other UEs. The RF transceiver 1901 may include multiple transceivers. In particular, the RF transceiver 1901 may include one or more transceivers for a Uu interface with the intermediate node 5, the assist node 6, and other UEs, and a transceiver for communicating with multiple AIoT devices including the AIoT device 1. In addition to the RF transceiver 1901, the base station 2 may also include an RF transmitter for supplying RF power to the AIoT devices.

[0171] The RF transceiver 1901 is coupled to the antenna array 1902 and the processor 1904. For example, the RF transceiver 1901 receives modulation symbol data from the processor 1904, generates a transmit RF signal, and provides the transmit RF signal to the antenna array 1902. The RF transceiver 1901 also generates a baseband receive signal based on the receive RF signal received by the antenna array 1902 and provides the baseband receive signal to the processor 1904. The RF transceiver 1901 may include an analog beamformer circuit for beamforming. The analog beamformer circuit may include, for example, multiple phase shifters and multiple power amplifiers.

[0172] The network interface 1903 is used to communicate with network nodes (e.g., other base stations, control plane nodes and user plane nodes in the CN4), and may include, for example, a network interface card (NIC) conforming to the IEEE 802.3 series.

[0173] The processor 1904 performs digital baseband signal processing (data plane processing) and control plane processing for wireless communication. The processor 1904 may include multiple processors. For example, the processor 1904 may include a modem processor (e.g., a Digital Signal Processor (DSP)) that performs digital baseband signal processing and a protocol stack processor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a Micro Processing Unit (MPU)) that performs control plane processing.

[0174] For example, digital baseband signal processing by the processor 1904 may include signal processing for the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer, Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Medium Access Control (MAC) layer, and Physical (PHY) layer. Also, control plane processing by the processor 1904 may include processing of Non-Access Stratum (NAS) messages, RRC messages, MAC Control Elements (CEs), and Downlink Control Information (DCI).

[0175] The processor 1904 may include a digital beamformer module for beamforming, which may include a Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) encoder and precoder.

[0176] The memory 1905 is configured by a combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The volatile memory is, for example, Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic RAM (DRAM), or a combination thereof. The non-volatile memory is, for example, Mask Read Only Memory (MROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. The memory 1905 may include storage located remotely from the processor 1904. In this case, the processor 1904 may access the memory 1905 via the network interface 1903 or an I / O interface (not shown).

[0177] The memory 1905 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 1906 including instructions and data for performing the processes of the base station 2 described in the above embodiments. In some implementations, the processor 1904 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 1906 from the memory 1905 to perform the processes of the base station 2 described in the above embodiments.

[0178] It should be noted that the control plane processing and operations performed by base station 2 described in the above embodiment can be realized by elements other than RF transceiver 1901 and antenna array 1902, namely processor 1904 and memory 1905 storing software module 1906.

[0179] 20 shows an example of the configuration of a core network node in the CN 4. Referring to FIG. 20, the core network node 2000 includes a network interface 2001, a processor 2002, and a memory 2003.

[0180] The network interface 2001 is used, for example, to communicate with other network functions (NFs) or nodes, and may include, for example, a network interface card (NIC) compliant with the IEEE 802.3 series.

[0181] The processor 2002 may be, for example, a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. The processor 2002 may include multiple processors.

[0182] The memory 2003 is composed of volatile memory and nonvolatile memory. The memory 2003 may include a plurality of physically independent memory devices. The volatile memory is, for example, SRAM or DRAM, or a combination thereof. The nonvolatile memory is, for example, MROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. The memory 2003 may include storage located remotely from the processor 2002. In this case, the processor 2002 may access the memory 2003 via the network interface 2001 or the I / O interface.

[0183] The memory 2003 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 2004 including instructions and data for performing the processing by the core network node described in the above embodiments. In some implementations, the processor 2002 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 2004 from the memory 2003 to perform the processing by the core network node described in the above embodiments.

[0184] Figure 21 shows an example configuration of the intermediate node 5. In the example of Figure 21, the intermediate node 5 is a UE. The configuration of the assist node 6 may also be similar to the configuration shown in Figure 21. The RF transceiver 2101 performs analog RF signal processing to communicate with the base station 2. In addition, the RF transceiver 2101 performs analog RF signal processing to communicate with multiple AIoT devices including the AIoT device 1. The RF transceiver 2101 may include multiple transceivers. In particular, the RF transceiver 2101 may include one or more transceivers for a Uu interface with the base station 2 and a transceiver for communicating with multiple AIoT devices including the AIoT device 1.

[0185] The analog RF signal processing performed by the RF transceiver 2101 includes frequency up-conversion, frequency down-conversion, and amplification. The RF transceiver 2101 is coupled to the antenna array 2102 and the baseband processor 2103. For example, the RF transceiver 2101 receives modulation symbol data (or orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol data) from the baseband processor 2103, generates a transmit RF signal, and provides the transmit RF signal to the antenna array 2102. The RF transceiver 2101 also generates a baseband receive signal based on the receive RF signal received by the antenna array 2102 and provides it to the baseband processor 2103. The RF transceiver 2101 may include an analog beamformer circuit for beamforming. The analog beamformer circuit includes, for example, multiple phase shifters and multiple power amplifiers.

[0186] The baseband processor 2103 performs digital baseband signal processing (data plane processing) and control plane processing for wireless communications. Digital baseband signal processing includes (a) data compression / decompression, (b) data segmentation / concatenation, (c) transmission format (transmission frame) generation / decomposition, (d) transmission path coding / decoding, (e) modulation (symbol mapping) / demodulation, and (f) generation of OFDM symbol data (baseband OFDM signal) using Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT). Meanwhile, control plane processing includes communication management for Layer 1 (e.g., transmit power control), Layer 2 (e.g., radio resource management and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) processing), and Layer 3 (e.g., signaling related to attachment, mobility, and call management).

[0187] For example, the digital baseband signal processing by the baseband processor 2103 may include signal processing of the SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and PHY layer. Also, the control plane processing by the baseband processor 2103 may include processing of the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocol, the RRC protocol, MAC CEs, and DCIs.

[0188] The baseband processor 2103 may perform MIMO encoding and precoding for beamforming.

[0189] The baseband processor 2103 may include a modem processor (e.g., DSP) that performs digital baseband signal processing and a protocol stack processor (e.g., CPU or MPU) that performs control plane processing. In this case, the protocol stack processor that performs control plane processing may be shared with the application processor 2104, which will be described later.

[0190] The application processor 2104 is also referred to as a CPU, MPU, microprocessor, or processor core. The application processor 2104 may include multiple processors (multiple processor cores). The application processor 2104 executes a system software program (operating system (OS)) and various application programs read from the memory 2106 or a memory not shown, thereby realizing various functions of the intermediate node 5.

[0191] In some implementations, the baseband processor 2103 and the application processor 2104 may be integrated on a single chip, as shown by the dashed line (2105) in Figure 21. In other words, the baseband processor 2103 and the application processor 2104 may be implemented as a single System on Chip (SoC) device 2105. An SoC device is sometimes called a system Large Scale Integration (LSI) or chipset.

[0192] The memory 2106 is volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory 2106 may include multiple physically independent memory devices. The volatile memory is, for example, SRAM, DRAM, or a combination thereof. The nonvolatile memory is, for example, MROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. For example, the memory 2106 may include an external memory device accessible from the baseband processor 2103, the application processor 2104, and the SoC 2105. The memory 2106 may also include an internal memory device integrated within the baseband processor 2103, the application processor 2104, or the SoC 2105. Furthermore, the memory 2106 may include memory within a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC).

[0193] The memory 2106 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 2107 including instructions and data for performing the processing by the intermediate node 5 described in the above-described embodiments. In some implementations, the baseband processor 2103 or the application processor 2104 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 2107 from the memory 2106, thereby performing the processing by the intermediate node 5 described in the above-described embodiments using the drawings.

[0194] It should be noted that the control plane processing and operations performed by the intermediate node 5 described in the above embodiment can be realized by elements other than the RF transceiver 2101 and the antenna array 2102, namely, at least one of the baseband processor 2103 and the application processor 2104, and the memory 2106 storing the software module 2107.

[0195] As described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 21 , each of the processors included in the AIoT device 1, base station 2, core network node, intermediate node 5, and assist node 6 according to the above-described embodiments can execute one or more programs including instructions for causing a computer to perform the algorithms described with reference to the drawings. The programs include instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium or a tangible storage medium. Examples of computer-readable media or tangible storage media include, but are not limited to, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray (registered trademark) disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage device. The programs may also be transmitted on a transitory computer-readable medium or a communication medium. By way of example, and not limitation, transitory computer-readable or communication media include electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0196] The above-described embodiments are merely examples of application of the technical ideas obtained by the inventors of the present invention. In other words, the technical ideas are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

[0197] For example, some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as, but are not limited to, the following appendices. Some or all of the elements (e.g., configurations and functions) described in appendices directed to apparatuses (e.g., AIoT devices, base stations, core network nodes, and intermediate nodes) may naturally also be described as appendices directed to methods and programs. For example, some or all of the elements described in appendices 2-7, which are dependent on appendices 1, may also be described as appendices dependent on appendices 8 and 9, due to the same dependency relationship as appendices 2-7. Similarly, some or all of the elements described in appendices 11-21, which are dependent on appendices 10, may also be described as appendices dependent on appendices 22 and 23, due to the same dependency relationship as appendices 11-21. Some or all of the elements described in any appendice may be applicable to various hardware, software, recording means for recording software, systems, and methods.

[0198] (Supplementary Note 1) An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and means for controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station. (Supplementary Note 2) The AIoT device of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the control means is configured to control the transitions between the multiple states so that the current state of the AIoT device recognized within the AIoT device matches the current state of the AIoT device recognized in the core network. (Supplementary Note 3) The AIoT device of Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein the multiple states are multiple non-access stratum states, further comprising means for determining a current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 4) The AIoT device of any one of Supplements 1 to 3, further comprising means for changing processing performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node according to the current state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 5) The AIoT device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 4, wherein the communicating means is configured to receive a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node, transmit a second signal for initial access in response to receiving the first signal, and receive a third signal based on the second signal from the base station or the intermediate node, and the controlling means is configured to change a current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving the third signal. (Supplementary Note 6) The AIoT device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 4, wherein the communicating means is configured to transmit a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering the first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node, and the communicating means is configured to repeatedly receive the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly transmit the second signal the predetermined number of times.(Supplementary Note 7) The AIoT device according to any one of Supplements 1 to 6, wherein the communicating means is configured to communicate with the base station or the intermediate node using backscatter communication. (Supplementary Note 8) A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station. (Supplementary Note 9) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the method comprising controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with a core network via a base station or via an intermediate node and the base station. (Supplementary Note 10) A base station comprising: means for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting directly or via an intermediate node; and means for relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 11) The base station according to Supplementary Note 10, further comprising means for recognizing a current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving a message from the core network. (Supplementary Note 12) The base station according to Supplementary Note 11, wherein the multiple states are multiple non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine a current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 13) The base station according to Supplementary Note 10, further comprising means for recognizing the current state of the AIoT device through relaying the information exchange.(Supplementary Note 14) The base station according to Supplementary Note 13, wherein the plurality of states are a plurality of non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine a current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 15) The base station according to Supplementary Note 13 or 14, wherein the communicating means is configured to: transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device, receive a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal, and transmit a third signal based on the second signal to the AIoT device, and the recognizing means is configured to change the current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal. (Supplementary Note 16) The base station according to any one of Supplementary Notes 10 to 14, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit to the core network first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information, and transmit to the AIoT device third information received from the core network or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information. (Supplementary Note 17) The base station according to any one of Supplementary Notes 10 to 14, wherein the communicating means is configured to: request the intermediate node to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device, receive from the intermediate node information obtained from a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal, and request the intermediate node to transmit a third signal to the AIoT device based on the reception of the information. (Supplementary Note 18) The base station according to Supplementary Note 17, further comprising: means for changing a current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal.(Supplementary Note 19) The base station according to any one of Supplementary Notes 10 to 18, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device directly or via the intermediate node, or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information, to the core network; and transmit third information received from the core network, or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information, to the AIoT device directly or via the intermediate node. (Supplementary Note 20) The base station according to any one of Supplementary Notes 10 to 19, wherein the communicating means is configured to: transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device and receive a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, and (Supplementary Note 21) The base station according to any one of Supplements 10 to 20, wherein the communicating means includes a transmitting node configured to transmit a wireless signal to the AIoT device and a receiving node configured to receive a wireless signal transmitted by the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 22) A method performed by a base station, comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting directly or via an intermediate node; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 23) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a base station, comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting directly or via an intermediate node; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.(Supplementary Note 24) A core network node comprising: means for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and means for controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station. (Supplementary Note 25) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 24, further comprising means for notifying the base station of a current state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 26) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 24 or 25, wherein the means for communicating is configured to: request the base station to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device; receive from the base station information obtained from a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal; and request the base station to perform context setup for the AIoT device based on the reception of the information. (Supplementary Note 27) The core network node of Supplementary Note 26, wherein the context setup triggers the base station to send a third signal to the AIoT device to cause the AIoT device to change its current state. (Supplementary Note 28) A method performed by a core network node comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.(Supplementary Note 29) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and controlling transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station. (Supplementary Note 30) An intermediate node comprising: means for performing cellular communication with a base station; means for performing wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and means for relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitions between multiple states of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 31) The intermediate node according to Supplementary Note 30, further comprising means for recognizing a current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving a message from the base station. (Supplementary Note 32) The intermediate node of Supplementary Note 31, wherein the multiple states are multiple non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine the current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 33) The intermediate node of Supplementary Note 30, further comprising: means for recognizing the current state of the AIoT device through relaying the information exchange. (Supplementary Note 34) The intermediate node of Supplementary Note 33, wherein the multiple states are multiple non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine the current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.(Supplementary Note 35) The intermediate node according to Supplementary Note 33 or 34, wherein the means for wireless communication with the AIoT device is configured to: transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device, receive a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal, and transmit a third signal based on the second signal to the AIoT device, and the recognizing means is configured to change the current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal. (Supplementary Note 36) The intermediate node according to any one of Supplements 30 to 35, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information to the core network via the base station, and transmit third information received from the core network via the base station or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information to the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 37) The intermediate node according to any one of Supplementary Notes 30 to 36, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information to the core network via the base station; and transmit third information received from the core network via the base station or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information to the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 38) A method performed by an intermediate node, comprising: performing cellular communication with a base station; performing wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.(Supplementary Note 39) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an intermediate node comprising: performing cellular communication with a base station; performing wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 40) An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and means for changing a process performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node according to the current state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 41) The AIoT device according to Supplementary Note 40, wherein the means for communicating is configured to communicate with the base station or the intermediate node using backscatter communication. (Supplementary Note 42) A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and changing a process performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node according to a current state of the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 43) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising changing a process performed in response to receiving a specific signal from a base station or an intermediate node according to a current state of the AIoT device.(Supplementary Note 44) An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node, wherein the means for communicating is configured to transmit a second signal, in which information for initial access is encoded, by backscattering a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node, wherein the means for communicating is configured to receive the first signal repeatedly a predetermined number of times and transmit the second signal repeatedly the predetermined number of times. (Supplementary Note 45) A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: receiving a first signal for initial access from a base station or an intermediate node, and transmitting a second signal, in which information for initial access is encoded, by backscattering the first signal, wherein the receiving includes receiving the first signal repeatedly the predetermined number of times, and the transmitting includes transmitting the second signal repeatedly the predetermined number of times. (Supplementary Note 46) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the method comprising: receiving a first signal for initial access from a base station or an intermediate node; and transmitting a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering the first signal; wherein the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the first signal a predetermined number of times; and the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the second signal the predetermined number of times.(Supplementary Note 47) A base station comprising means for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the communicating means being configured to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device and receive a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, the communicating means being configured to repeatedly transmit the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly receive the second signal the predetermined number of times. (Supplementary Note 48) The base station according to Supplementary Note 47, wherein the communicating means includes a transmitting node configured to transmit a wireless signal to the AIoT device and a receiving node configured to receive the wireless signal transmitted by the AIoT device. (Supplementary Note 49) The base station according to Supplementary Note 47 or 48, wherein the base station is an intermediate node. (Supplementary Note 50) A method performed by a base station, comprising: transmitting a first signal for initial access to an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, and receiving a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, wherein the transmitting comprises repeatedly transmitting the first signal a predetermined number of times, and the receiving comprises repeatedly receiving the second signal the predetermined number of times. (Supplementary Note 51) A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a base station, comprising: transmitting a first signal for initial access to an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, and receiving a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, wherein the transmitting comprises repeatedly transmitting the first signal a predetermined number of times, and the receiving comprises repeatedly receiving the second signal the predetermined number of times.

[0199] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-017182, filed February 7, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0200] 1 AIoT device 2 Base station 3 Radio access network 4 Core network 5 Intermediate node 6 Assist node 1804 Controller 1805 Memory 1904 Processor 1905 Memory 1906 Modules 2003 Memory 2004 Modules 2103 Baseband processor 2104 Application processor 2106 Memory 2107 Modules

Claims

1. An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and means for controlling transitions of the AIoT device between states based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

2. The AIoT device of claim 1, wherein the control means is configured to control the transition between the multiple states so that the current state of the AIoT device recognized in the AIoT device matches the current state of the AIoT device recognized in the core network.

3. The AIoT device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the multiple states are multiple non-access stratum states, and further comprising means for determining the current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.

4. The AIoT device described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising means for changing the processing performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

5. The AIoT device described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the communicating means is configured to: receive a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node; transmit a second signal for initial access in response to receiving the first signal; and receive a third signal based on the second signal from the base station or the intermediate node; and the controlling means is configured to change the current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving the third signal.

6. The AIoT device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the communicating means is configured to transmit a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node, and the communicating means is configured to repeatedly receive the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly transmit the second signal the predetermined number of times.

7. The AIoT device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the means for communicating is configured to communicate with the base station or the intermediate node using backscatter communication.

8. A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with a core network via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

9. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the method comprising controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with a core network via a base station or via an intermediate node and the base station.

10. A base station comprising: means for communicating directly or via an intermediate node with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and means for relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

11. The base station according to claim 10, further comprising: means for recognizing a current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving a message from the core network.

12. The base station of claim 11, wherein the plurality of states are a plurality of non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine the current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.

13. The base station according to claim 10, further comprising means for recognizing the current state of the AIoT device through the relay of the information exchange.

14. The base station of claim 13, wherein the plurality of states are a plurality of non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine the current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.

15. The base station described in claim 13 or 14, wherein the communicating means is configured to: transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device; receive a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal; and transmit a third signal based on the second signal to the AIoT device; and the recognizing means is configured to change the current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal.

16. A base station as described in any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit to the core network first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information; and transmit to the AIoT device third information received from the core network or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information.

17. The base station described in any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the communicating means is configured to: request the intermediate node to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device; receive from the intermediate node information obtained from a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal; and request the intermediate node to transmit a third signal to the AIoT device based on the reception of the information.

18. The base station of claim 17, further comprising: means for changing a current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal.

19. A base station as described in any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device directly or via the intermediate node, or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information, to the core network; and transmit third information received from the core network, or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information, to the AIoT device directly or via the intermediate node.

20. A base station as described in any one of claims 10 to 19, wherein the communicating means is configured to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device and receive a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, and the communicating means is configured to repeatedly transmit the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly receive the second signal the predetermined number of times.

21. The base station according to any one of claims 10 to 20, wherein the means for communicating includes a transmitting node configured to transmit a wireless signal to the AIoT device, and a receiving node configured to receive a wireless signal transmitted by the AIoT device.

22. A method performed by a base station, comprising: communicating directly or via an intermediate node with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

23. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a base station, comprising: communicating directly or via an intermediate node with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

24. A core network node comprising: means for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and means for controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

25. The core network node of claim 24, further comprising: means for notifying the base station of a current state of the AIoT device.

26. The core network node of claim 24 or 25, wherein the communicating means is configured to: request the base station to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device; receive from the base station information obtained from a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal; and request the base station to perform context setup for the AIoT device based on the reception of the information.

27. The core network node of claim 26, wherein the context setup triggers the base station to send a third signal to the AIoT device to cause the AIoT device to change its current state.

28. A method performed by a core network node, comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

29. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, comprising: communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting via a base station or via the base station and an intermediate node; and controlling transitions of the AIoT device between multiple states based on signaling with the AIoT device via the base station or via the intermediate node and the base station.

30. An intermediate node comprising: means for performing cellular communication with a base station; means for performing wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and means for relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

31. The intermediate node of claim 30, further comprising: means for recognizing a current state of the AIoT device in response to receiving a message from the base station.

32. The intermediate node of claim 31, wherein the plurality of states are a plurality of non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine a current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.

33. The intermediate node of claim 30, further comprising means for recognizing the current state of the AIoT device through the relay of the information exchange.

34. The intermediate node of claim 33, wherein the plurality of states are a plurality of non-access stratum states, and the recognizing means is configured to determine a current access stratum state of the AIoT device according to the current non-access state of the AIoT device.

35. The intermediate node described in claim 33 or 34, wherein the means for wirelessly communicating with the AIoT device is configured to: transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device; receive a second signal for initial access transmitted by the AIoT device in response to receiving the first signal; and transmit a third signal based on the second signal to the AIoT device; and the means for recognizing is configured to change the current state of the AIoT device in response to transmitting the third signal.

36. The intermediate node described in any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information to the core network via the base station; and transmit third information received from the core network via the base station or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information to the AIoT device.

37. The intermediate node described in any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein the relaying means is configured to: transmit first information received from the AIoT device or second information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the first information to the core network via the base station; and transmit third information received from the core network via the base station or fourth information obtained by performing predetermined processing on the third information to the AIoT device.

38. A method performed by an intermediate node, comprising: conducting cellular communication with a base station; conducting wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

39. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an intermediate node comprising: performing cellular communication with a base station; performing wireless communication with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and relaying information exchange between the AIoT device and a core network for transitioning between multiple states of the AIoT device.

40. An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and means for modifying the processing performed in response to receiving a specific signal from the base station or the intermediate node, depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

41. The AIoT device of claim 40, wherein the means for communicating is configured to communicate with the base station or the intermediate node using backscatter communication.

42. A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; and modifying the processing performed in response to receiving a particular signal from the base station or the intermediate node depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

43. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the method comprising: modifying processing performed in response to receiving a particular signal from a base station or intermediate node depending on the current state of the AIoT device.

44. An Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: means for communicating with a base station or an intermediate node; the means for communicating is configured to transmit a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering a first signal for initial access from the base station or the intermediate node; and the means for communicating is configured to repeatedly receive the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly transmit the second signal the predetermined number of times.

45. A method performed by an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, comprising: receiving a first signal for initial access from a base station or an intermediate node; and transmitting a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering the first signal, wherein the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the first signal a predetermined number of times; and the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the second signal the predetermined number of times.

46. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting, the method comprising: receiving a first signal for initial access from a base station or an intermediate node; and transmitting a second signal in which information for initial access is encoded by backscattering the first signal; wherein the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the first signal a predetermined number of times; and the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the second signal the predetermined number of times.

47. A base station comprising: means for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; the means for communicating is configured to transmit a first signal for initial access to the AIoT device and receive a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal; and the means for communicating is configured to repeatedly transmit the first signal a predetermined number of times and repeatedly receive the second signal the predetermined number of times.

48. The base station of claim 47, wherein the means for communicating includes a transmitting node configured to transmit a wireless signal to the AIoT device and a receiving node configured to receive a wireless signal transmitted by the AIoT device.

49. A base station according to claim 47 or 48, wherein the base station is an intermediate node.

50. A method performed by a base station, comprising: transmitting a first signal for initial access to an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and receiving a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, wherein the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the first signal a predetermined number of times; and the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the second signal the predetermined number of times.

51. A program for causing a computer to perform a method for a base station, the method comprising: transmitting a first signal for initial access to an Ambient Internet of Things (AIoT) device powered by energy harvesting; and receiving a second signal transmitted from the AIoT device by backscattering the first signal, wherein the transmitting includes repeatedly transmitting the first signal a predetermined number of times; and the receiving includes repeatedly receiving the second signal the predetermined number of times.

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