Method and apparatus for selection of assisting nodes for ambient internet of things (AIOT) devices

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products that provide for selection of assisting nodes for ambient internet of things (AIoT) devices. In the context of a method, the method includes providing for reception of an activation signal from a first node, where the activation signal comprises a test sequence, and where the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node; and providing for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, where the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an AIoT device, and where the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SELECTION OF ASSISTING NODES FOR AMBIENT INTERNET OF THINGS (AIOT) DEVICESRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to GB Application No. 2404358.0 filed March 27, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0002] An example embodiment relates generally to techniques for selection of assisting nodes for ambient internet of things (AIoT) devices and, more particularly, to techniques for selecting assisting node pairs based on information in test sequences and received backscattered signal power.BACKGROUND

[0003] Some terminals, such as AIoT device, may harvest energy for various operations, such as operations performed in accordance with an active mode or a passive mode. In some cases, a terminal may use energy harvested from radio frequency waves or other forms of energy that may be harvested in various deployment scenario. The terminal may operate with relatively low (e.g., ultra-low) power, for example, ranging from one microwatt to hundreds of microwatts. For instance, the terminal may include one or more components (e.g., an energy harvester) configured for harvesting energy from radio frequency waves, and an output power of the energy harvester may be from one microwatt to tens of microwatts. In another instance, the terminal may include one or more other components (e.g., a solar panel) configured for energy harvesting from solar radiation (e.g., ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, infrared light), and an output power of the solar panel may be less than a milliwatt. In some cases, a terminal configured to harvest energy (e.g., an energy harvesting device) may operate in an active mode in which the terminal may use harvested energy and a circuit (e.g., an active circuit) to transmit signaling. In some other cases, a terminal configured to harvest energy may operate in a passive mode (e.g., a tag, a device that lacks active transmission circuitry), in which the terminal may use backscattering to communicate (e.g., transmit data).BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed to provide for improved selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices. In this regard, a method, apparatus, and computer program product are configured to provide for the reception, by an AIoT device, of an activation signal that includes a test sequence, and provide for the transmission, by the AIoT device, of a backscattered signal that includes backscattering of the activation signal. By providing for the reception of the activation signal with the test sequence information and the transmission of the corresponding backscattered signal, the method, apparatus, and computer program product may provide for improved selection of assisting nodes for the AIoT device. In some aspects, improved selection of assisting nodes may lead to data being communicated with the AIoT device more effectively and with reduced interference, such that the data may be interpreted (e.g., decoded), in a more accurate manner. Moreover, by providing for improved selection of assisting nodes for the AIoT device, data may be transmitted to (or received from) the AIoT device, over wider ranges.

[0005] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code (e.g., instructions) with the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to provide for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal includes a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node. The at least one memory and the computer program code are also configured to provide for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an AIoT device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

[0006] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code (e.g., instructions) with the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device. The at least one memory and the computer program code are also configured to provide for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, wherein the activation signal includes the test sequence, and wherein the testsequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node. The at least one memory and the computer program code are further configured to provide for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

[0007] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code (e.g., instructions) with the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node. The at least one memory and the computer program code are also configured to provide for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters. The at least one memory and the computer program code are further configured to provide for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.

[0008] In at least one example embodiment, a method is provided comprising providing for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal includes a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node. The method further comprises providing for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

[0009] In at least one example embodiment, a method is provided comprising providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device. The method also comprises providing for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, whereinthe activation signal includes the test sequence, wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node. The method further comprises providing for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

[0010] In at least one example embodiment, a method is provided comprising providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node. The method also comprises providing for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters. The method further comprises providing for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.

[0011] In at least one example embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium is provided. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprises computer instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to provide for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal includes a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node. The computer executable program code instructions also comprise program code instructions configured, upon execution, to cause the apparatus to provide for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

[0012] In at least one example embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium is provided. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprises computer instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device. The computer executable program code instructions alsocomprise program code instructions configured, upon execution, to cause the apparatus to provide for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, wherein the activation signal includes the test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node. The computer executable program code instructions further comprise program code instructions configured, upon execution, to cause the apparatus to provide for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

[0013] In at least one example embodiment, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium is provided. The non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprises computer instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node. The computer executable program code instructions also comprise program code instructions configured, upon execution, to cause the apparatus to provide for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters. The computer executable program code instructions further comprise program code instructions configured, upon execution, to cause the apparatus to provide for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.

[0014] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that comprises means for providing for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal includes a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node. The apparatus further comprises means for providing for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

[0015] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that comprises means for providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device. The apparatus also comprises means for providing for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, wherein the activation signal includes the test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node. The apparatus further comprises means for providing for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

[0016] In at least one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that comprises means for providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node. The apparatus also comprises means for providing for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters. The apparatus further comprises means for providing for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Having thus described some example embodiments of the present disclosure in general terms, reference will hereinafter be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0018] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example communication system in which the system of Figure 1 may be deployed;

[0019] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating operations performed, such as by the apparatus of Figure 3, to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0020] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an apparatus that may be specifically configured in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 4 is a process flow illustrating operations performed, such as within the communication system of Figure 1, to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0022] Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating operations performed, such as by one example embodiment of the apparatus of Figure 3, in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0023] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating operations performed, such as by one example embodiment of the apparatus of Figure 3, in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment; and

[0024] Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating operations performed, such as by one example embodiment of the apparatus of Figure 3, in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating operations performed, such as by one example embodiment of the apparatus of Figure 3, in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes in accordance with an example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the terms “data,” “content,” “information,” and similar terms may be used interchangeably to refer to data capable of being transmitted, received and / or stored in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, use of any such terms should not be taken to limit the spirit and scope of embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Additionally, as used herein, the term ‘circuitry’ refers to (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (e.g., implementations in analog circuitry and / or digital circuitry); (b) combinations of circuits and computer program product(s) comprising software and / or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more functions described herein; and (c) circuits, such as, for example, a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that usesoftware or firmware for operation even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of ‘circuitry’ applies to all uses of this term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term ‘circuitry’ also includes an implementation comprising one or more processors and / or portion(s) thereof and accompanying software and / or firmware. As another example, the term ‘circuitry’ as used herein also includes, for example, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, other network device (such as a core network apparatus), field programmable gate array, and / or other computing device.

[0028] As illustrated in the example of Figure 1 , a communications system may include one or more ambient loT (AIoT) devices, such as an AIoT device 29. In some embodiments, the AIoT device 29 may be (or otherwise include) a radio frequency identification (RFID) device. An RFID device may also be referred to herein as an RFID tag or, more simply, a tag. Some AIoT devices, such as RFID tags, may be used with (e.g., may operate in accordance with) one or more backscattering technologies. In other words, some AIoT devices may communicate with one or more other devices (e.g., the UE 20, the UE 21, the access node 22) via backscattering. AIoT devices may be deployed in various vertical industries including, but not limited to logistics, manufacture industries, transportation industries, and energy industries. As such, deploying AIoT devices (e.g., passive devices) in both public and private networks may provide one or more benefits to the communications system (e.g., a 5G ecosystem). In some embodiments, AIoT devices may be relatively low (e.g., ultra-low) complexity devices and / or devices with a relatively small terminal size or form factor (e.g., a thickness on the order of mm). Additionally, or alternatively, AIoT devices may be associated with relatively low maintenance (e.g., may be maintenance-free), and may have a relatively long lifecycle. An AIoT device may include a battery-less terminal or a terminal with constrained (e.g., limited) energy storage capability. For example, an AIoT device may store energy via a capacitor.

[0029] The AIoT device 29 may operate in accordance with one or more topologies. In some examples, the AIoT device 29 may operate in accordance with a first topology in which the AIoT device 29 may directly communicate with an access node (e.g., a base station).That is, the AIoT device 29 may directly and bidirectionally communicate with a base station in accordance with the first topology. Communication between the access node and the AIoT device 29 may include AIoT data and / or signaling. For example, the AIoT device 29 mayreceive a signal (e.g., a continuous wave signal) from the access node and may use the signal to communicate information (e.g., data) to the access node. In some examples, the AIoT device 29 may communicate data via modulation of the backscatter. For example, the AIoT device 29 may modulate the data over the backscattered signal. In some other examples, as illustrated in Figure 1 , the AIoT device 29 may operate in accordance with a second topology in which the AIoT device 29 may communicate with the access node 22 (e.g., a base station) via one or more intermediate nodes. An intermediate node may also be referred to herein as an assisting node. The second topology may support monostatic and bistatic communications. In some examples of monostatic communication, the AIoT device 29 may communicate bidirectionally with an intermediate node (e.g., the UE 20), and the intermediate node may communicate (e.g., directly, and bidirectionally) with the access node 22. In some examples, the intermediate node may be physically located in between the AIoT device 29 and the access node 22, thereby extending the range over which the access node 22 may communicate with the AIoT device 29 (relative to communications in accordance with the first topology). In accordance with the monostatic mode, the intermediate node may transfer (e.g., relay, forward) AIoT data and / or signaling between the access node 22 and the AIoT device 29.

[0030] In some examples, however, monostatic communications may be associated with one or more range constraints (e.g., one or more range limitation). For example, in accordance with the monostatic mode, the AIoT device 29 may communicate with an intermediate node by backscattering a signal (e.g., an activation signal) from the intermediate node. In such an example, the intermediate node may receive a backscattered signal while concurrently transmitting the activation signal (e.g., the backscattered signal includes backscatter of the activation signal). Accordingly, monostatic communications may be constrained to intermediate nodes within the communications system that include full duplex capabilities. For example, the UE 20 may include full duplex capabilities and, as such, the AIoT device 29 may communicate (bidirectionally) with the UE 20 in accordance with a monostatic mode. That is, in such examples, the UE 20 may transmit an activation signal to the AIoT device 29, while concurrently receiving a backscattered signal from the AIoT device 29. In some examples, such full duplex constraints may reduce a range over which the assisting node 22 may provide coverage and lead to increased latency. Additionally, monostatic communications may lead to cross interference (e.g., crosslink interference) between activation signals and backscattered signals. For example, signal leakage from anactivation signal transmitted from the UE 20 may interfere with a corresponding backscattered signal received at the UE 20. In other words, monostatic communications may lead to crosslink interference between activation and backscatter links. As described herein, an activation signal may refer to a signal transmitted via an activation link (e.g., a forward link) and a backscattered signal may refer to a signal communicated via a backscattered link (e.g., a reverse link).

[0031] In some examples, to reduce a likelihood of crosslink interference at an intermediate node, the assisting node 22 may communicate with the AIoT device 29 in accordance with the bistatic mode. In other words, the access node 22 (and the AIoT device 29) may use bistatic communications to reduce a likelihood of crosslink interference at an intermediate node (e.g., the UE 20). For example, in accordance with the bistatic mode, the AIoT device 29 may receive an activation signal from a first intermediate node (e.g., the UE 20) and may communicate (e.g., send) a backscattered signal to a second intermediate node (e.g., the UE 21). Accordingly, for the bistatic mode, the first intermediate node and the second intermediate node may include full duplex or half duplex capabilities. In some examples, by receiving the activation signal from the UE 20 and communicating the backscattered signal to the UE 21, the AIoT device 29 may reduce a likelihood of crosslink interference, which may lead to increased reliability and reduced latency. As described herein, an activator node (or a candidate activator node) refers to an intermediate node configured to transmit an activation signal to one or more AIoT devices. Additionally, as described herein, a reader node (or a candidate reader node) refers to an intermediate node configured to receive a backscattered signal (or a transmitted signal) from one or more AIoT devices. Although the intermediate nodes are illustrated as UEs in the example of Figure 1, it should be understood that an intermediate node (also referred to as an assisting node) may include a relay, an IAB node, a UE, a repeater, or one or more other devices configured for communications with one or more AIoT devices.

[0032] One or more combinations of an activator and a reader (e.g., one or more activator-reader pairs) may be configured to serve one or more AIoT devices. In some examples, activator-reader pairs may be selected by the core network 25 (e.g., 5GC), for example, based on a policy (e.g., one or more service constraints). For example, the communication system may include one or more candidate activator nodes and one or more candidate reader nodes from which the core network 25 may select activator-reader pairs. An intermediate node (e.g., the UE 20, the UE 21) may be a candidate activator node, a candidatereader node, or both a candidate activator node and a candidate reader node. In some examples, however, the core network 25 may be unaware of one or more physical (PHY) layer parameters associated with an intermediate node (e.g., a candidate activator node, a candidate reader node) and, as such, the core network 25 may select an activation-reader pair irrespective of the PHY parameter(s) associated with the intermediate node. Accordingly, selection of activator-reader pairs by the core network 25 (e.g., at the core level) may be relatively inaccurate or unreliable. In other words, one or more intermediate nodes within the communication system may not be configured with full duplex capabilities and, as such, may not support monostatic communication. Additionally, or alternatively, some full duplex nodes may experience increased interference, which may reduce a reliability of monostatic communications. Accordingly, the core network may determine to select activator-reader pairs, such that one or more AIoT devices within the communications system may use bistatic communication. However, the core network 25 may be unaware of one or more physical layer parameters (e.g., one or more parameters that may be indicative of a level of interference experienced at one or more intermediate nodes), which may reduce the accuracy and reliability of activator-reader pair selection. For example, an activator-reader pair selected by the core network 25 for an AIoT device irrespective of PHY layer parameter(s) associated with the activator-reader pair may have an increased likelihood of failing to satisfy service constraints for the AIoT device.

[0033] In some examples, in accordance with one or more techniques for selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices, as described herein, an activator and reader pair may be selected by the access node 22 (e.g., the RAN, the gNB) based on their suitability to provide service to one or more targeted AIoT devices (e.g., with suitable link conditions to the AIoT devices). In at least one example embodiment, the AIoT device 29 may receive an activation signal from the UE 20. The activation signal includes a test sequence indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the UE 20. As described herein, the test sequence refers to a sequence that indicates, to a device (e.g., the AIoT 29), that the activation signal is a test (e.g., that the activation signal is test activation signal). In some examples, the test sequence indicates, to the device, to refrain from using the activation signal to backscatter information unrelated to the test (e.g., to refrain from backscattering some of its own information, such as information other than an identifier of the AIoT device and a capability of the AIoT device to amplify signals). In some examples, the test sequence may include an identifier of an activator node (e.g., a device that transmitted the activation signal). The identifier of theactivator node may be referred to herein as an activator ID. An activator ID may be included in the test sequence in one or more formats (e.g., any predetermined format). In some examples, the access node 22 (e.g., gNB) may allocate a temporary identifier to the activator node. In some other examples, the activator ID may be an identifier (e.g., a permanent identifier) associated with the UE.

[0034] The AIoT device 29 may transmit a backscattered signal to the UE 21 based on the activation signal including the test sequence. The backscattered signal includes backscatter of the activation signal and is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an AIoT device. In some examples, the test sequence further indicates at least one of the following: a duration over which the UE 20 is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device, or that the activation signal is a test signal. In some examples, the backscattered signal further indicates at least one of the following: a capability of the AIoT device to amplify signals, or a duration over which the UE 20 is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device 29. In some examples, the AIoT device 29 may modulate the backscattered signal in accordance with first data associated with the activation signal. The first data may include at least the first identifier and the second identifier. In some examples, the AIoT device 29 may refrain from modulating the backscattered signal in accordance with other data unassociated with the activation signal based on the activation signal comprising the test sequence.

[0035] In some examples, the UE 20 may receive a signal, from the access node 22, that is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least the AIoT device 29. The first set of parameters may include at least one of the following: a radio frequency band associated with the test sequence and one or more subsequent transmissions, a time duration associated with the test sequence, or a frequency shift associated with the test sequence and the one or more subsequent transmissions. In such examples, the UE 20 may transmit the activation signal to the AIoT device 29 in accordance with the first set of parameters. In some examples, the UE 20 may receive a query from the access node 22. The query may pertain to a full duplexing capability of the UE 20. In some examples, in response to the query, the UE 20 may transmit a first indication of the full duplexing capability of the UE 20 to the access node 22.

[0036] In some examples, the UE 21 may receive a first signal, from the access node 22, that is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least the AIoT device 29. In such examples, the UE 21 may receive the backscatteredsignal from the AIoT device 29 in accordance with the set of parameters. The set of parameters may include at least one of the following: a radio frequency band associated with the backscattered signal, or a parameter pertaining to time synchronization with a radio access network. In some examples, the UE 21 may transmit, to the access node 22, a second signal that is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal. For example, the UE 21 may receive an indication of a received power threshold from the access node 22, in which the received power threshold is associated with the reception of the backscattered signal. The received power threshold may be based on the full duplexing capability of the UE 20. In such an example, the UE 21 may transmit the second signal (indicative of the received power) based on the received power satisfying the received power threshold. In some examples, based on the backscattered signal, the second signal is indicative of the received power, a first identifier associated with the UE 20, and a second identifier associated with the AIoT device 29. In some examples, based on the backscattered signal, the second signal is further indicative of at least one of the following: a capability of the AIoT device 29 to amplify signals, or a duration over which the UE 20 is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device 29. Accordingly, in some examples, one or more technologies described herein may provide enhanced coverage for the AIoT device 29 (e.g., for backscattering RFID tags and other types of AIoT devices in the communication system) as well as more efficient harvesting energy from a dedicated source (e.g., an activation UE, such as the UE 20), which may improve efficiencies for loT-type of data transmissions (e.g., by the AIoT device 29).

[0037] The communication system is also able to communicate with other networks, such as a public switched telephone network or the Internet 26, or utilize services provided by them. The communication network may also be able to support the usage of cloud services, for example at least part of core network operations may be carried out as a cloud service (this is depicted in Figure 1 by “cloud” 28). The communication system may also comprise a central control entity, or a like, providing facilities for networks of different operators to cooperate for example in spectrum sharing. 5G may also utilize satellite communication to enhance or complement the coverage of 5G service, for example by providing backhauling. Possible use cases are providing service continuity for machine-to-machine (M2M) or Internet of Things (loT) devices or for passengers on board vehicles, or ensuring service availability for critical communications, and future railway / maritime / aeronautical communications. Satellite communication may utilize geostationary earth orbit (GEO)satellite systems, but also low earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, in particular megaconstellations (systems in which hundreds of (nano)satellites are deployed). Each satellite in the mega-constellation may cover several satellite-enabled network entities that create on- ground cells. The on-ground cells may be created through an on-ground relay node 22 or by a gNB located on-ground or in a satellite. The depicted system is an example of a part of a radio access system in which the communication system of Figure 1 may be deployed and in practice, the system may comprise a plurality of NodeBs, the user devices may have an access to a plurality of radio cells and the system may comprise also other apparatuses, such as physical layer relay nodes or other network elements, etc. At least one of the NodeBs or may be a Home nodeB. Additionally, in a geographical area of a radio communication system a plurality of different kinds of radio cells as well as a plurality of radio cells may be provided. Radio cells may be macro cells (or umbrella cells) which are large cells, usually having a diameter of up to tens of kilometers, or smaller cells such as micro-, femto- or picocells. The NodeBs of Figure 1 may provide any kind of these cells. A cellular radio system may be implemented as a multilayer network including several kinds of cells. Typically, in multilayer networks, one access node provides one kind of a cell or cells, and thus a plurality of NodeBs may be used to provide such a network structure.

[0038] As shown in Figure 1, for example, a communications system may include a plurality of devices configured to communicate via respective channels. In this regard, the user equipment may include a transmitter configured to communicate with a receiver of a base station. Conversely, the base station may include a receiver and a transmitter for communicating with a receiver of the user equipment. By way of example, the communication system may be deployed within a radio access architecture based on long term evolution advanced (LTE Advanced, LTE-A) or new radio (NR, 5G). However, the system may be deployed in other applications including within other communication networks, such as a universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) radio access network (UTRAN or E-UTRAN), wireless local area network (WLAN or WiFi), worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Bluetooth®, personal communications services (PCS), ZigBee®, wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), systems using ultra- wideband (UWB) technology, sensor networks, mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) and Internet Protocol multimedia subsystems (IMS) or any combination thereof. In this regard, Figure 1 depicts an example of a simplified system architecture showing some elements and functional entities (e.g., logical units), whose implementation may differ fromwhat is shown. The connections shown in Figure 1 are logical connections and corresponding physical connections may be different. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art that the system may comprises other functions and structures than those shown in Figure 1. In the radio access architecture of Figure 1, user devices 20 and 21 are configured to be in wireless connection on one or more communication channels in a cell with an access node 22 (such as a NodeB) providing the cell. As used herein, an access node may also be referred to as a network node. The physical link from a user device to a NodeB is called the uplink or reverse link and the physical link from the NodeB to the user device is called the downlink or forward link. It should be appreciated that the NodeBs or their functionalities may be implemented by using any node, host, server, or access point (AP), etc. entity suitable for such a usage.

[0039] A communications system may include more than one NodeB in which case the NodeBs may also be configured to communicate with one another over links, wired or wireless, designed for various purposes. For example, such links may be used for signaling purposes. The NodeB is a computing device configured to control the radio resources of the communication system to which the NodeB may be coupled. The NodeB may also be referred to as a base station, an access point or any other type of interfacing device including a relay station capable of operating in a wired or wireless environment. The NodeB includes or is coupled to transceivers. From the transceivers of the NodeB, a connection is provided to an antenna unit that establishes bi-directional radio links to user devices. As such, the transceivers of the NodeB and the transceivers of the user devices may include transmitters and receivers configured to communicate via a channel with the trainable parameters of the transmitters and receivers able to be reconfigured in accordance with an example embodiment. The antenna unit may comprise a plurality of antennas or antenna elements. The NodeB is further connected to core network 25 (CN or next generation core NGC). Depending on the system, the counterpart on the CN side can be a serving gateway (S-GW, routing and forwarding user data packets), packet data network gateway (P-GW), for providing connectivity of user devices (UEs) to external packet data networks, or mobile management entity (MME), etc. The user device (also referred to as user equipment (UE), user terminal, terminal device, etc.) illustrates one type of an apparatus to which resources on the air interface are allocated and assigned, and thus any feature described herein with a user device may be implemented with a corresponding apparatus, such as a relay node. Anexample of such a relay node is a layer 3 relay (self-backhauling relay) towards the base station.

[0040] The user device typically refers to a portable computing device that includes wireless mobile communication devices operating with or without a subscriber identification module (SIM), including, but not limited to, the following types of devices: a mobile station (mobile phone), smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA), handset, device using a wireless modem (alarm or measurement device, etc.), laptop and / or touch screen computer, tablet, game console, notebook, and multimedia device. It should be appreciated that a user device may also be a nearly exclusive uplink device (e.g., an uplink-only device), of which an example is a camera or video camera loading images or video clips to a network. A user device may also be a device having capability to operate in Internet of Things (loT) network which is a scenario in which objects are provided with the ability to transfer data over a network without human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction. The user device (or in some embodiments a layer 3 relay node) is configured to perform one or more of user equipment functionalities. The user device may also be called a subscriber unit, mobile station, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal or user equipment (UE) just to mention but a few names or apparatuses.

[0041] One example of an apparatus 30 is depicted in Figure 3. As shown in Figure 3, the apparatus includes, is associated with, or is in communication with processing circuity 32, a memory 34 and a communication interface 36. The processing circuitry may be in communication with the memory device via a bus for passing information among components of the apparatus. The memory device may be non-transitory and may include, for example, one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, the memory device may be an electronic storage device (e.g., a computer readable storage medium) comprising gates configured to store data (e.g., bits) that may be retrievable by a machine (e.g., a computing device like the processing circuitry). The memory device may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, or the like for enabling the apparatus to carry out various functions in accordance with an example embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the memory device could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processing circuitry. Additionally, or alternatively, the memory device could be configured to store instructions for execution by the processing circuitry. The apparatus 30 may, in some embodiments, be embodied in various computing devices as described above. However, in some embodiments, the apparatus may beembodied as a chip or chip set. In other words, the apparatus may comprise one or more physical packages (e.g., chips) including materials, components and / or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, conservation of size, and / or limitation of electrical interaction for component circuitry included thereon. The apparatus may therefore, in some cases, be configured to implement an embodiment of the present disclosure on a single chip or as a single “system on a chip.” As such, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionalities described herein.

[0042] The processing circuitry 32 may be embodied in a number of different ways. For example, the processing circuitry may be embodied as one or more of various hardware processing means such as a coprocessor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing element with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other circuitry including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like. As such, in some embodiments, the processing circuitry may include one or more processing cores configured to perform independently. A multi-core processing circuitry may enable multiprocessing within a single physical package. Additionally, or alternatively, the processing circuitry may include one or more processors configured in tandem via the bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining and / or multithreading. In an example embodiment, the processing circuitry 32 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory device 34 or otherwise accessible to the processing circuitry.Alternatively, or additionally, the processing circuitry may be configured to execute hard coded functionality. As such, whether configured by hardware or software methods, or by a combination thereof, the processing circuitry may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry) capable of performing operations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when the processing circuitry is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processing circuitry may be specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processing circuitry is embodied as an executor of instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when the instructions are executed. However, in some cases, the processing circuitry may be a processor of a specific device (e.g., an imageor video processing system) configured to employ an embodiment of the present disclosure by further configuration of the processing circuitry by instructions for performing the algorithms and / or operations described herein. The processing circuitry may include, among other things, a clock, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and logic gates configured to support operation of the processing circuitry. The communication interface 36 may be any means such as a device or circuitry embodied in either hardware or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to receive and / or transmit data, including media content in the form of video or image files, one or more audio tracks or the like. In this regard, the communication interface may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and / or software for enabling communications with a wireless communication network. Additionally, or alternatively, the communication interface may include the circuitry for interacting with the antenna(s) to cause transmission of signals via the antenna(s) or to handle receipt of signals received via the antenna(s). In some environments, the communication interface may alternatively or also support wired communication. As such, for example, the communication interface may include a communication modem and / or other hardware / software for supporting communication via cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), universal serial bus (USB) or other mechanisms. The apparatus 30 may be (or be included in) one or more types of devices, such as an access node (e.g., a base station), a UE, and / or an AIoT device.

[0043] For example, the access node 22 may include the apparatus 30. For example, the access node 22 may include one or more components (e.g., the processing circuity 32, the memory 34, the communication interface 36) configured to support one or more techniques for selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices, as described herein. As illustrated in the example of Figure 2, the access node 22 may utilize such techniques for selection of activator and reader UEs for bistatic operation (e.g., in accordance with the second topology, which may be referred to as Topology 2). For example, Figure 2 illustrates a scheme for selection of activator-reader pairs in accordance with one or more techniques for selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices, as described herein. In some examples, the access node 22 (e.g., a gNB) may perform activator-reader assisting node selection for an AIoT device based on one or more service parameters and PHY layer parameters associated with the AIoT device. For example, the access node 22 may obtain (e.g., receive) service information associated with the AIoT device from the core network 25 (e.g., the 5GC). The service information may be indicative of one or more service parameters (e.g., parameters associated with communicationconstraints, positioning / location constraints, management constraints, information exposure constraints, security and privacy constraints) associated with the AIoT device. Additionally, or alternatively, the access node may obtain (e.g., receive) one or more PHY layer parameters associated with the AIoT device from one or more candidate reader nodes, such as the UE 21 (or one or more candidate activator nodes, such as the UE 20). The PHY layer parameters may include parameters pertaining to PHY layer communications at the AIoT device, such as a signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR)). In some embodiments, the access node 22 may obtain one or more PHY layer parameters associated with the AIoT device based on a test sequence. For example, the access node 22 may configure the UE 20 (e.g., a candidate activator node) to transmit an activation signal that includes a test sequence to the AIoT device. In such an example, the AIoT device may backscatter at least a portion of the activation signal to the UE 21. That is, the AIoT device may use the activation signal to communicate a backscattered signal to the UE 21 (e.g., a candidate reader node). The backscattered signal may include test information that indicates the backscattered signal is associated with the activation signal (and the test sequence) from the UE 20. In some embodiments, the UE 21 may determine (e.g., measure, compute) the one or more PHY layer parameters based on the backscattered signal and may communicate the one or more PHY layer parameters (e.g., and identifiers of the UE 20 and the AIoT device) to the access node 22. The access node 22 may, in some examples, use the one or more PHY layer parameters to select one or more activation-reader pairs (for the AIoT device) that satisfy the AIoT service constraints. In some examples, the access node 22 (e.g., a RAN) may send information pertaining to the activator-reader pair(s) selection to the core network 25 (e.g., the 5GC). The core network may use such information, for example, for subsequent selections of candidate activator nodes. For example, the core network 25 may select one or more candidate activator nodes for one or more AIoT devices (e.g., target AIoT devices) based on information associated with target AIoT device(s). In some examples, such information may include location information associated with the AIoT device(s), service constraints associated with the AIoT device(s), and / or information pertaining to one or more previous activator-reader pair selections at the access node 22. In some embodiments, based on the candidate activator nodes selected by the core network 25, the access node 25 may select one or more activator-reader pairs that satisfy service constraints (e.g., for one or more target AIoT devices). In some examples, the access node 22 may query one or more of the candidate activator nodes (e.g., selected by the core network 25) for information pertaining tocapabilities of the candidate activator nodes to operate in a full duplex mode, which is a constraint for operation in the monostatic mode. In other words, the access node 22 may query candidate activator node(s) (e.g., the UE 20) to determine whether the candidate activator node(s) support the full duplex mode and, as such, may operate in accordance with the monostatic mode. In some examples, such as examples in which a candidate activator node does not support the full duplex mode (e.g., is not configured with one or more full duplex capabilities), the access node may select one or more candidate reader nodes for the candidate activator node (e.g., to be paired with the candidate activator node), such that the candidate activator node may satisfy one or more constraints associated with bistatic communications (as compared to a candidate activator node having full duplex capabilities and the access node 22 selecting one or more reader nodes to be paired with the candidate activator node to increase one or more communication efficiencies).

[0044] In some examples, the access node 22 may configure multiple candidate activator and reader nodes to transmit and receive, respectively, test sequences (e.g., in orthogonal time and frequency resources). That is, in some examples, the access node 22 may configure two or more candidate activator nodes to transmit test sequences (e.g., test transmissions, signals that include test sequences) in orthogonal time and frequency resources. Additionally, or alternatively, the access node 22 may configure two or more candidate reader nodes to receive backscatter of test transmissions in orthogonal time and frequency resources. In some examples, information included in a test sequence (e.g., in an activation signal that includes a test sequence) may indicate for the AIoT device to backscatter the activation signal. Additionally, or alternatively, information included in the test sequence may indicate for the AIoT device to modulate test information over the backscattered signal. In some examples, the test information (e.g., information pertaining to a test activation signal, an activation signal including a test sequence) may include information pertaining to an identifier of the AIoT device and an identifier of the activator node. In some examples, the test information modulated over the backscattered signal may include an indication of whether the AIoT device is configured with one or more signal amplification capabilities and / or a time duration over which the activator node may transmit activation signals (e.g., to the AIoT device). In some examples, based on the test information received via the backscattered signal, the candidate reader node (e.g., the UE 21) may forward information about one or more PHY layer parameters (e.g., SINR) of the backscattered signal, as well as the corresponding identifiers of the AIoT device and activator node to the access node 22 (e.g., the gNB). Thatis, test information communicated between a candidate reader node and the access node 22 may also include one or more PHY layer parameters. In some examples, based on test information received at the access node 22, the access node 22 selects (e.g., makes one or more decisions on) activator-reader pairs, which may satisfy AIoT service constraints. In some examples, the activator-reader pair selection may be one-to-multiple or multiple-to-one (e.g., may not be one-to-one). That is, one activator may serve as an activator for more than one reader node and one reader node may serve as a reader for more than one activator node.

[0045] Figure 4 is a process flow illustrating operations performed, such as within the communication system of Figure 1, to select assisting nodes (e.g., activator-reader pairs) in accordance with an example embodiment. For example, the process flow illustrates some respective operations performed at the AIoT device 29, an activator UE 20 A, an activator UE 20B, a reader UE 21A, a reader UE 21B, and the access node 22. The UE 20A and the UE 20B may be examples of the UE 20 illustrated by and described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. For example, the UE 20A and the UE 20B may be examples of an apparatus 30 illustrated by and described with reference to Figure 3. Additionally, or alternatively, the UE 21 A and the UE 2 IB may be examples of the UE 21 illustrated by and described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. For example, the UE 21 A and the UE 21B may be examples of an apparatus 30 illustrated by and described with reference to Figure 3. One or more operations performed at the AIoT device 29, the activator UE 20A, the activator UE 20B, the reader UE 21 A, the reader UE 2 IB, and the access node 22 may be performed in a different order than the example order shown. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more operations performed at the AIoT device 29, the activator UE 20A, the activator UE 20B, the reader UE 21 A, the reader UE 21B, and the access node 22 may be omitted and / or one or more other operations may be added. In some examples, the access node 22 (e.g., a gNB) receives information from the core network 25 (e.g., the 5GC) regarding identification (ID) of one or more targeted AIoT devices (e.g., one or more AIoT devices the access node 22 may communicate with, such as the AIoT device 29). Additionally, or alternatively, the core network 25 may provide area information regarding an area in which such targeted AIoT devices may be located (e.g., are approximately located).

[0046] In some examples, at step 40, the access node 22 may select one or more candidate activator nodes, such as the activator UE 20A and the activator UE 20B, based on the area information. As described herein, a candidate activator node refers to an activator node that is configured to (e.g., and that may be willing to) provide AIoT activation service toone or more AIoT devices. In some examples, AIoT activation services include energy signals with one or more configurations (e.g., one or more known configurations).

[0047] In some examples, at step 41, the access node 22 may select one or more candidate reader nodes, such as the reader UE 21A and the reader UE 21B, based on information associated with the selected activator nodes (e.g., area information associated with the candidate activator nodes). The selection of the candidate reader nodes (or the candidate activator nodes) may be based on information provided by the core network (e.g., the 5GC). Additionally, or alternatively, selection of the candidate reader nodes may be based on the selected activator nodes. For example, the access node 22 may identify one or more candidate reader nodes based on location information of the selected candidate reader nodes in relation to the selected candidate activator nodes. In some examples, the candidate activator nodes may be selected by the access node 22 and / or the core network prior to the selection of the candidate reader nodes.

[0048] In some examples, at step 42, the access node 22 may transmit a full duplex (FD) capability enquiry (e.g., an FD query) to the activator UE 20A and the activator UE 20B (e.g., the selected candidate activators). In some such examples, at 43, the selected activator UEs may respond to the FD query. In other words, in response to the FD query, the activator UE 20A and the activator UE 20B may transmit FD capability information to the access node 22. The access node 22 may use FD capability information, for example, to configure one or more candidate activator nodes and / or one or more candidate reader nodes for a test transmission (e.g., transmission of an activation signal that includes a test sequence). In some examples, such as examples in which the FD capability information indicates that a candidate activator node is not FD capable, the access node 22 may select one or more candidate reader nodes for the candidate activator node (e.g., may pair one or more candidate reader nodes with the candidate activator node). Additionally, or alternatively, for examples in which one or more (e.g., all) of the selected candidate activator nodes are FD capable (e.g., for examples in which respective FD capability information for one or more candidate activator nodes indicates support for one or more full duplex capabilities), the access node 22 may select one or more candidate reader nodes for the candidate activator node(s) (e.g., may pair one or more candidate reader nodes with the candidate activator node(s)). In some examples, pairing an FD capable activator node with one or more reader nodes may provide for range extension and reduce a likelihood of cross interference between forward and reverse links.

[0049] At 44, the access node 22 may configure the selected candidate activator nodes with configurations for sending one or more test activation signals. For example, the access node 22 may transmit, to the activator UE 20 A and the activator UE 20B, an indication of a first set of one or more parameters (e.g., may transmit an indication of a respective set of one or more parameters to each selected candidate activator node) associated with the transmission of test sequences to the AIoT 29. In some examples, a configuration (e.g., the first set of parameters) may include an indication of a band for transmission of a test sequence (e.g., for transmission of an activation signal that includes a test sequence). Additionally, or alternatively, the configuration may include an indication of a time shift and / or frequency shift for transmission of a test sequence and one or more subsequent transmissions.

[0050] In some examples, the configuration may include an indication of a time shift associated with transmission of a test sequence and subsequent transmissions. In some such examples, the time shift (e.g., time offset) may indicate one or more time-domain resources the AIoT device may use for backscattering an activation signal (e.g., an activation signal that includes a test sequence). For example, the time shift may be relative to a respective timedomain resource over which an activation signal is received at the AIoT device. In other words, the AIoT device may receive an activation signal and may backscatter the activation signal during a time occasion that based on the time shift (e.g., the AIoT device may wait a duration, which is equal to the time shift, to backscatter the activation signal).

[0051] In some examples, the configuration may include an indication of a frequency shift associated with transmission of a test sequence and subsequent transmissions. In some such examples, the frequency shift (e.g., frequency offset) may indicate one or more frequency-domain resources the AIoT device may use for backscattering an activation signal (e.g., an activation signal that includes a test sequence). For example, the frequency shift may be relative to a respective frequency resource (e.g., a center frequency) used for transmission of an activation signal (e.g., an activation signal that includes a test sequence). In other words, the AIoT device may receive an activation signal at a first frequency and may backscatter the activation signal at a second frequency that is based on the frequency shift (e.g., the difference between the first frequency and the second frequency may be equal to the frequency shift). In some examples, a device (e.g., the activator UE) may communicate a time shift and / or a frequency shift to the AIoT device (e.g., via an indication in an activation signal), or the AIoT device may be otherwise configured with the time and / or frequency shift.

[0052] In some examples, the time- and / or frequency-domain resources configured at the activator UE 20A for transmission of a first test sequence may be orthogonal to the time- and / or frequency-domain resources configured for the activator UE 20B for transmission of a second test sequence. For example, the access node 22 may configure multiple (e.g., different) activator nodes to transmit in orthogonal time-frequency resources to reduce a likelihood of cross-interference between multiple (e.g., two or more) backscattered signals at an associated reader node.

[0053] At 45, the access node 22 may configure the selected candidate reader nodes for reception of backscattered signals corresponding to test sequences. For example, the access node 22 may transmit, to the reader UE 21 A and the reader UE 2 IB, an indication of a second set of one or more parameters for reception of backscattered signals associated with test sequences (e.g., for reception of signals including backscatter of activation signals that include test sequences). In some examples, the configuration may include synchronization (e.g., time synchronization) and band information for the activation and backscattering signals. For example, the second set of parameters may indicate one or more time- and / or frequency-domain resources for reception of backscattered signals from one or more AIoT devices. In some examples, time- and / or frequency-domain resources configured at the reader UE 21 A for reception of a first backscattered signal may be orthogonal to time- and / or frequency-domain resources configured for the reader 2 IB for reception of a second backscattered signal.

[0054] In some examples, at 46, the access node 22 may configure one or more received power thresholds at the candidate reader nodes (e.g., the reader UE 21A and the reader UE 2 IB). For example, the access node may configure a first received power threshold at the reader UE 21 A and a second received power threshold (e.g., the same received power threshold, a different received power threshold) at the reader UE 2 IB. In some examples, a received power threshold is a SINR detection threshold. The candidate reader nodes may, in some examples, use one or more received power thresholds to determine whether to report test information (e.g., test sequence information) to the access node 22. For example, the candidate reader nodes may use the received power threshold(s) to determine one or more activator signals (e.g., which activator signals, which backscattered signals that include backscatter of activation signals) may be detected by the candidate reader nodes for suitably reliable communication. The access node 22 may, in some examples, use different configuration settings (e.g., for the candidate activator nodes and / or the candidate readernodes) based on whether the selected candidate activator nodes are FD capable or not. For instance, if a selected activator node is FD capable (e.g., and is serving as a reader node), the access node 22 may configure the selected activator node to use a higher detection threshold (e.g., a higher received power threshold) as compared to another detection threshold, which the access node 22 may configure the selected activator node (or a paired reader node) to use if the selected activator node is not FD capable.

[0055] At 47, the activator UE 20 A and the activator UE 20B may transmit, to the AIoT device 29 in accordance with the first set of parameters, activation signals that include the test sequences. In some examples, a candidate activator node (e.g., the activator UE 20A, the activator UE 20B) may broadcast a test activation signal (e.g., an activation signal including a test sequence) with an identifier of the candidate activator node (e.g., with an activator ID) and in one or more time-frequency resource allocated to the candidate activator node (e.g., for transmission of the test activation signal). In other words, the candidate activator node may use the first set of parameters to transmit an activation signal to the AIoT device 29, in which the activation signal includes a test sequence that is indicative of (e.g., identifies) the candidate activator node. Additionally, or alternatively, the test sequence may indicate that the activation signal is a test signal. In some examples, the one or more time-frequency resources may be based on the time and / or frequency offset indicated via the first set of parameters. For example, the activator UE 20A may transmit a first activation signal with a first test sequence to the AIoT device 29 over a first set of one or more time-frequency resources and the activator UE 20B may transmit a second activation signal with a second test sequence to the AIoT device 29 over a second set of one or more time-frequency resources, which may be orthogonal to the first set of time-frequency resources. In other words, the selected activator nodes (e.g., and selected reader nodes) may be configured to operate in orthogonal time-frequency resources to, for example, reduce a likelihood of interference. In such an example, the first activation signal may be indicative of the activator UE 20A (e.g., the first test sequence may include a sequence that identifies the activator UE 20A), and the second activation signal may be indicative of the activator UE 20B (e.g., the second test sequence may include another sequence that identifies the activator UE 20B). In some examples, the first test sequence (or the second test sequence) may indicate that the first activation signal (or the second activation signal) is a test signal.

[0056] At 48, the AIoT device 29 may receive the test sequence activation signals (e.g., the first activation signal, the second activation signal) from the activation UE 20A and theactivation UE 20B. Additionally, the AIoT device 20 may modulate backscattering of the test sequence activation signals, such that the backscattering of the first activation signal indicates test information pertaining to the first test sequence and backscattering of the second activation signal indicates test information pertaining to the second test sequence. For example, the first test sequence may indicate a first activation identifier corresponding to the activation UE 20A. In such an example, the AIoT device 29 may modulate first test information that includes the first activation identifier and an identifier of the AIoT device 29 over a first backscattered signal associated with the first activation signal (e.g., the backscattering of the first activation signal). In such an example, a receiver of the first backscattered signal (e.g., the reader UE 21 A) may determine that the first backscattered signal (and thus the first activation signal) is associated with the activator UE 20 A and the AIoT device 29. Additionally, or alternatively, in some examples, the second test sequence may indicate a second activation identifier corresponding to the activation UE 20B. In such an example, the AIoT device 29 may modulate second test information that includes the second activation identifier and the identifier of the AIoT device 29 over a second backscattered signal associated with the second activation signal (e.g., the backscattering of the second activation signal). In such examples, a receiver of the second backscattered signal (e.g., the reader UE 21B) may determine that the second backscattered signal (and thus the second activation signal) is associated with the activator UE 20B and the AIoT device 29. In other words, the AIoT device 29 may backscatter a test activation signal according to test information (e.g., first data) that is associated with the test activation signal.

[0057] In some examples, the test information may also include (e.g., in addition to an identifier of an activation UE and an identifier of an AIoT device) information pertaining to one or more capabilities of the AIoT device and / or one or more capabilities of the activator UE. For example, the AIoT device 20 may backscatter the first activation signal and / or the second activation signal, such that the first backscattered signal and / or the second backscattered signal indicates a capability of the AIoT device 20 to amplify backscattered (e.g., reflected) signals. In some examples, such as for a non-test activation signal (e.g., an activation signal lacking or otherwise associated with a test sequence), the AIoT device 29 may be configured to modulate other data (e.g., its own information data, information data unassociated with a test sequence, information data unassociated with the activation node) over backscattering of the non-test activation signal. In some other examples, such as for a test activation signal (e.g., an activation signal including or otherwise associated with a testsequence), the AIoT device 29 may refrain from modulating the other data over backscattering of the test activation signal. In other words, for examples in which the AIoT device 29 receives a test sequence in an activation signal, the AIoT device 29 may refrain from transmitting (e.g., does not transmit) data unassociated with the test sequence over the backscattering signal (e.g., via modulation). Instead, the AIoT device 29 may backscatter test information (e.g., activator-related information and its own identifier) to the candidate reader node. In some examples, the AIoT device 29 may apply a frequency shift to one or more of the activation signals transmitted from the activation UE 20A and the activation UE 20B (e.g., in orthogonal time-frequency space), for example, to reduce interference between backscattered signals. The candidate reader nodes may receive the AIoT backscattered signals. For example, the reader UE 21 A may receive the first backscattered signal and the reader UE 2 IB may receive the second backscattered signal.

[0058] At 49, the candidate reader nodes may report (e.g., forward) test information to the access node 22. In some examples, the candidate reader nodes may forward the test information to the access node based on PHY layer parameters (e.g., SINR) of the backscattered signals satisfying (e.g., being greater than) one or more received power thresholds (e.g., configured at 46). For example, a first received power of the first backscattered signal may satisfy the first received power threshold. Accordingly, the reader node 21A (e.g., the recipient of the first backscattered signal) may forward test information indicated via the first backscattered signal (e.g., the first activation identifier and the identifier of the AIoT device 29) to the access node 22. Additionally, or alternatively, a second received power of the second backscattered signal may satisfy (e.g., be greater than) the second received power threshold. Accordingly, the reader node 21B (e.g., the recipient of the second backscattered signal) may forward test information indicated via second backscattered signal (e.g., the second activation identifier and the identifier of the AIoT device 29) to the access node 22. In some examples, the first backscattered signal and / or the second backscattered signal may indicate one or more device attributes associated with the AIoT device 29, such as whether the AIoT device 29 may amplify backscatter. In other words, respective test information indicated via the first backscattered signal and / or the second backscattered signal may include one or more device attributes associated with the AIoT device. In some such examples, the reader node 21A and / or the reader node 21B may also forward the one or more device attributes. Additionally, or alternatively, in some examples, the reader node 21 A and / or the reader node 2 IB may forward the first received power and thesecond received power, respectively, to the access node 22. In other words, the test information reported to (e.g., forwarded to) the access node 22 for the first backscattered signal and the second backscattered signal may include the first received power and the second received power, respectively. In some other examples, such as examples in which the first received power fails to satisfy (e.g., is less than) the first received power threshold (or the second received power fails to satisfy the second received power threshold) the reader UE 21 A (or the reader UE 2 IB) may refrain from reporting test information pertaining to the first activation signal (or the second activation signal) to the access node 22.

[0059] At 40, based on the received test information from the candidate readers nodes, the access node 22 may select one or more activator-reader pairs (e.g., a sufficient quantity of activator-reader pairs). For example, the access node 22 may select an activator node for communications via an activation link (e.g., a forward link) of the AIoT device 29 and may also select an associated reader node for communications via a backscatter link (e.g., a reverse link) of the AIoT device 29. In some examples, the one or more activator-reader pairs may satisfy the one or more service constraints of the AIoT device 29. In other words, based on the test information received from the candidate readers reader nodes (e.g., the reader UE 21A, the reader UE 21B) and the service constraints (e.g., including target AIoT device identifiers) from the core network, the access node 22 may select (e.g., make a selection) one or more activator-reader pairs. In some examples, one reader node may serve as a reader for multiple activator nodes and one activator node may provide activation signals for multiple reader nodes. Thus, the selected activator-reader pairs may not be one-to-one. In some examples, the access node 22 may select a quantity of activator-reader pairs such at a target quantity of AIoT devices (e.g., specified by a service request) may be served (e.g., with suitable link quality).

[0060] In some examples, at 41, the access node 22 may configure the selected activatorreader pairs for subsequent communications with one or more AIoT devices. In some examples, such as in response to being configured as activators and readers, the selected activator-reader pairs may communicate (e.g., may start communicating) with the one or more AIoT devices using orthogonal resources. For instance, based in part on the first received power, the access node 22 may select the activator UE 20A and the reader UE 21 A as a first activator-reader pair for the AIoT device 29. Additionally, based in part on the second received power, the access node 22 may select the activator UE 20B and the reader UE 21B as a second activator-reader pair for the AIoT device 29. In some examples, theactivator UE 20A and the reader UE 21 A may communicate with the AIoT device 29 over a radio frequency band (e.g., radio frequency band Fl) in a time slot (e.g., Tl), whereas the activator UE 20B and the reader UE 2 IB may communicate with the AIoT device 29 in another radio frequency band and / or in another time slot, such that one or more timefrequency resources used by the activator UE 20A and the reader UE 21 A are orthogonal to one or more other time-frequency resources used by the activator UE 20B and the reader UE 2 IB. In some examples, one or more techniques for selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices (e.g., one or more techniques for selecting activator-reader pairs for a bistatic configuration), as described herein, may provide for an increased range of coverage and reduced cross-link interference, for example, when an activator node is not configured for full-duplex communications.

[0061] Referring now to Figure 5, some operations performed in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes for the apparatus 30 (e.g., the access node 22), in one example embodiment, are depicted. As shown in Figure 5, the apparatus 30 is configured to provide for the selection of activator-reader pairs (e.g., UE activator and reader pairs) based on one or more target service constraints (e.g., target service constraints, also referred to as target service requirements). As illustrated in the example of Figure 5, first information about AIoT service constraints (e.g., information indicative of one or more AIoT devices to be read) is received at the access node 22 from the core network 25 (e.g., 5GC). Additionally, candidate readers provide second information (e.g., information indicative of a SINR for the AIoT devices for each activation signal) to the access node 22 (e.g., gNB). In the example of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34) for processing the first information and the second information according to the selection scheme of Figure 5, such that the access node 22 may obtain a list of selected activators and one or more corresponding readers for one or more (e.g., each) of the selected activators. In some examples, the selected activators and readers are configured to operate in orthogonal time and frequency resources, for example, to reduce a likelihood (e.g., to avoid) inter-activator signal interference.

[0062] As shown in block 53 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of the first information pertaining to target AIoT devices from the core network 25 (e.g., the 5GC). For example, the core network 25 (e.g., the 5GC) may provide the apparatus 30 a list of one or more AIoT devices, also referred to as tags, to be read by one or more readers for one ormore services. Additionally, or alternatively, the core network 25 may provide geographical information about the deployment of the one or more AIoT devices, for example, without providing exact location information (e.g., as in agricultural applications).

[0063] As shown in block 54 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 also includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of information collected from one or more candidate activators and readers (e.g., candidate activator and reader UEs, candidate activator nodes and candidate reader nodes). In some examples, the access node 22 (e.g., the RAN) may select a quantity of activator-reader pairs (e.g., the one or more candidate activator and reader nodes) which may collect information from the AIoT devices (e.g., from among the list of IDs provided by the 5GC).

[0064] As shown in block 55 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 also includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34), for providing for selection of one or more readers (e.g., all readers) which provide the largest quantity of read devices (e.g., tags, AIoT devices) for activator i. In other words, the apparatus 30 may include means for providing for selection of a combination of readers which provide the largest quantity (e.g., maximum number) of target-tags reports in which the received power is greater than a received power threshold (e.g., target- tags reports with SINR>threshold) for a particular activator i.

[0065] As shown in block 56 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 may include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34) for adding activator i to a set of activators (e.g., set A- { i } ). In some examples, a reader may report a relatively large quantity of read devices (e.g., tags, AIoT devices), but one or more of the read devices may not be in a target service request list (e.g., the list of target AIoT devices provided at 53). In such examples, the one or more read devices may be ignored in the selection process (e.g., may not count towards the quantity of read devices). Thus, the apparatus 30 may be configured with a selection policy that indicates for the apparatus 30 to refrain from providing for the selection of the reader with the largest quantity (e.g., the maximum number) of read devices and to instead provide for the selection of the reader with the largest quantity (e.g., the maximum number) of read devices in the target service list provided by the core network 25.

[0066] As shown in block 57 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 may include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34) for determining whether the one or more readers selected in block 55 satisfy the target service constraints (e.g., whether the target service constraints are met).

[0067] As shown in block 58 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 may include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34) for excluding one or more activators from set A for a subsequent iteration (e.g., round) based on the selected readers failing to satisfy the target service constraints. In other words, if the target service constraints are not met (e.g., based on the selection performed at block 55), the apparatus 30 may repeat the selection at block 55. That is, the apparatus 50 may provide for the selection of one or more other readers which provide the largest number of target-tags reports (e.g., with SINR>threshold) for a particular activator j^i. Additionally, the apparatus 50 may provide for adding the activator] into set A such that A=| i.j }. In some examples, one or more of the readers selected for activator i may be the same as one or more readers selected for the activator]. In such examples, activator i and j may be configured to use orthogonal time and frequency resources for transmitting respective activation signals and, as such, the same one or more readers (e.g., reader UEs) could read b ackscattering from AIoT devices (e.g., read devices, tags) for both activators i and j. In some examples, the apparatus 30 may include means for repeating the selection at block 55, for example, until the target service constraints are satisfied. In other words, if target service requirements are not met, the access node 22 may repeat the selection (e.g., blocks 55, 56, and 57) until target service constraints on read devices (e.g., the AIoT devices) are met. Additionally, or alternatively, in some examples, the apparatus 30 may include means for providing for a quantity of activators (e.g., a maximum M activators) for a particular service (e.g., regardless of whether the target number of AIoT devices are read, such as by a selected reader). In some such examples, the apparatus 30 may include a means for providing for reception of an indication of the quantity of activators (e.g., a parameter that is indicative of the quantity of activators) from the core network 25.

[0068] As shown in block 59 of Figure 5, the apparatus 30 may include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34) for terminating (e.g., stopping) the operations and performing a selection of one or more activator-reader pairs from the selected activators in set A and readers in set R. In some examples, by using the set of activators (e.g., set A) and for each activator, a corresponding set of readers (e.g., set R), the apparatus 30 may provide for improved selection of activator-reader pairs, for example, in accordance with an activatorreader pair selection scheme, such as may be illustrated in Figure 4. In some embodiments, the selection of the one or more activator-reader pairs may be forwarded to the core network 25 (e.g., for future use if the same service is used over a relatively short duration). In some such embodiments, the access node 22 (e.g., the RAN) may query the selected activators andreaders, for example, to determine whether the selected activators and readers (e.g., the selected activator-reader pairs) are still available to provide service to one or more AIoT devices (e.g., tags).

[0069] Referring now to Figure 6, some operations performed in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes for the apparatus 30 (e.g., the AIoT device 29), in one example embodiment, are depicted. As shown in Figure 6, the apparatus 30 is configured to receive activation signals from one or more dedicated sources (e.g., a first node, which may be an example of the UE 20) and transmit backscattering of the activation signals to one or more dedicated readers (e.g., a second node, which may be an example of the UE 21).

[0070] As shown in block 62 of Figure 6, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of an activation signal from a first node, such as the UE 20. The activation signal includes a test sequence, which is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node.

[0071] In some examples, as shown in block 64 of Figure 6, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34), for providing for modulation of a backscattered signal in accordance with first data associated with the activation signal. In such examples, the first data comprises at least the first identifier and the second identifier.

[0072] In some examples, as shown in block 66 of Figure 6, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the memory 34), for refraining from causing (e.g., providing for) modulation of the backscattered signal in accordance with other data unassociated with the activation signal based on the activation signal comprising the test sequence. In other words, the test sequence may indicate for the apparatus to refrain from modulating the other data.

[0073] As shown in block 68 of Figure 6, the apparatus 30 also include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36) for providing for transmission of the backscattered signal to a second node, such as the UE 21, based on the activation signal comprising the test sequence. The backscattered signal includes backscattering of the activation signal and is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an AIoT device (e.g., the AIoT device 29).

[0074] Referring now to Figure 7, some operations performed in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes for the apparatus 30 (e.g., the UE 20), in another example embodiment, are depicted. As shown in Figure 7, the apparatus 30 is configured to receive a configuration for a test sequence from an access node (e.g., a gNB, which may be an exampleof the access node 22) and transmit one or more activation signals to one or more AIoT devices (e.g., the AIoT device 29) in accordance with the configuration.

[0075] As shown in block 70 of Figure 7, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, such as the assisting node 22. The first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters (e.g., an activator node configuration) associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an AIoT device (e.g., the AIoT device 29).

[0076] In some examples, as shown in block 72 of Figure 7, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters. The activation signal includes the test sequence and the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node (e.g., the UE 20).

[0077] As shown in block 74 of Figure 7, the apparatus 30 also include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36) for providing for reception of a second signal from the network node based on a received power associated with the activation signal. For example, the AIoT device may use the activation signal to transmit a backscattered signal to a second node (e.g., the UE 21). In such an example, the second node may report a received power to the access node 22. Based on the reported received power, the access node may select the UE 20 as an activator node (e.g., of an activator-reader pair) for at least one AIoT device (e.g., the AIoT device 29 and / or one or more other AIoT devices). Accordingly, the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to the at least one AIoT device.

[0078] Referring now to Figure 8, some operations performed in order to provide for selection of assisting nodes for the apparatus 30 (e.g., the UE 21), in yet another example embodiment, are depicted. As shown in Figure 8, the apparatus 30 is configured to receive one or more backscattered signals from one or more AIoT devices (e.g., the AIoT device 29) and report a respective received power of the one or more backscattered signals to a network node (e.g., the access node 22).

[0079] As shown in block 80 of Figure 8, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, such as the assisting node 22. The first signal is indicative of a set of parameters (e.g., a reader node configuration) associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an AIoT device (e.g., the AIoT device 29). In someexamples, the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node (e.g., an activator node, such as the UE 20). For example, the backscattered signal may include backscattering of an activation signal from the first node, and the apparatus 30 may provide for reception of the backscattered signal (e.g., the AIoT device may transmit the backscattered signal) based on the activation signal including the test sequence.

[0080] In some examples, as shown in block 82 of Figure 8, the apparatus 30 includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36), for providing for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters.

[0081] As shown in block 84 of Figure8, the apparatus 30 also include means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36) for providing for transmission of a second signal to the network node. The second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence. In some examples, the second signal may indicate (e.g., explicitly indicate) a value of the received power. Additionally, or alternatively, the second signal may implicitly indicate the value of the received power. For example, the access node 22 may configure the UE 21 (e.g., the apparatus 30) with a received power threshold. In such an example, the apparatus 30 may provide for transmission of the second signal based on the received power of the second signal satisfying the received power threshold.

[0082] In some examples, as shown in block 86 of Figure 8, the apparatus 30 also includes means (e.g., the processing circuitry 32, the communication interface 36) for providing for reception of at least one indication of at least one set of time and frequency resources from the network node. The at least one set of time and frequency resources are for reception of at least one backscattered signal. In some examples, providing for the reception of the indication is based on the received power. For example, based on the reported received power, the access node 22 may select the UE 21 as a reader node (e.g., of an activator-reader pair) for at least one AIoT device (e.g., the AIoT device 29 and / or one or more other AIoT devices). Accordingly, the access node may configure the UE 21 with the at least one set of time and frequency resources for reception of at least one backscattered signal from the at least one AIoT device.

[0083] As described above, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed to provide for improved selection of assisting nodes for AIoT devices. In this regard, a method, apparatus, and computer program product are configured to provide for thereception, by an AIoT device, of an activation signal that includes a test sequence, and provide for the transmission, by the AIoT device, of a backscattered signal that includes backscattering of the activation signal. By providing for the reception of the activation signal with the test sequence and the transmission of the corresponding backscattered signal, the method, apparatus, and computer program product may provide for improved selection of assisting nodes for the AIoT device. In some aspects, improved selection of assisting nodes may lead to data being communicated with the AIoT device more effectively and with reduced interference, such that the data may be interpreted (e.g., decoded), in a more accurate manner. Moreover, by providing for improved selection of assisting nodes for the AIoT device, data may be transmitted to (or received from) the AIoT device, over wider ranges.

[0084] Figures 5-8 illustrate flowcharts depicting methods according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowcharts and combination of blocks in the flowcharts may be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, processor, circuitry, and / or other communication devices associated with execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the procedures described above may be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, the computer program instructions which embody the procedures described above may be stored by a memory 34 of an apparatus 30 employing an embodiment of the present disclosure and executed by a processor 32. As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (for example, hardware) to produce a machine, such that the resulting computer or other programmable apparatus implements the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or other programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture the execution of which implements the function specified in the flowchart blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer- implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. Accordingly, blocks of the flowcharts support combinations of means for performing the specified functions and combinations of operations for performing thespecified functions for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that one or more blocks of the flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems which perform the specified functions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosure set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe some example embodiments in the context of some example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: provide for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal comprises a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node; and provide for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

2. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the test sequence further indicates at least one of the following: a duration over which the first node is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device, or that the activation signal is a test signal.

3. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the backscattered signal further indicates at least one of the following: a capability of the AIoT device to amplify signals, or a duration over which the first node is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device.

4. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for modulation of the backscattered signal in accordance with first data associated with the activation signal, wherein the first data comprises at least the first identifier and the second identifier.

5. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: refrain from causing modulation of the backscattered signal in accordance with otherdata unassociated with the activation signal based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence.

6. An apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the first node comprises a first user equipment (UE) and the second node comprises a second UE.

7. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device; provide for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, wherein the activation signal comprises the test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node; and provide for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

8. An apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for reception of a query from the network node, wherein the query pertains to a full duplexing capability of the first node, and wherein providing for the reception of the first signal is based at least in part the query.

9. An apparatus according to Claim 8, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: responsive to the query, provide for transmission of a first indication of the full duplexing capability of the first node to the network node, wherein providing for the reception of the first signal is based at least in part on the full duplexing capability of the firstnode.

10. An apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein the test sequence further indicates at least one of the following: a duration over which the first node is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device, or that the activation signal is a test signal.

11. An apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein the first set of parameters comprises at least one of the following: a radio frequency band associated with the test sequence and one or more subsequent transmissions, a time duration associated with the test sequence and the one or more subsequent transmissions, or a frequency shift associated with the test sequence and the one or more subsequent transmissions.

12. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: provide for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node; provide for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters; and provide for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.

13. An apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for reception of an indication of a received power threshold from the network node, wherein the received power threshold is associated with the reception of the backscattered signal, wherein the received power threshold is based at least in part on a full duplexing capability of the first node, and wherein providing for the transmission of the second signal is based at least in part on the received power satisfying the received powerthreshold.

14. An apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein, based at least in part on the backscattered signal, the second signal is indicative of the received power, a first identifier associated with the first node, and a second identifier associated with the AIoT device.

15. An apparatus according to Claim 14, wherein, based at least in part on the backscattered signal, the second signal is further indicative of at least one of the following: a capability of the AIoT device to amplify signals, or a duration over which the first node is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device.

16. An apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for reception of a second backscattered signal in accordance with a second set of parameters, wherein the second backscattered signal is associated with a second test sequence; and provide for transmission of a third signal to the network node, wherein the third signal is indicative of at least a second received power associated with the second test sequence.

17. An apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein the second test sequence is associated with a second node, and wherein the third signal is indicative of a third identifier associated with the second node.

18. An apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein, to provide for the reception of the second backscattered signal, the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for reception of the second backscattered signal from a second AIoT device, wherein, based at least in part on the second backscattered signal, the third signal is indicative of a third identifier associated with the second AIoT device.

19. An apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the set of parameters comprises at least one of the following: a radio frequency band associated with the backscattered signal, or a parameter pertaining to time synchronization with a radio access network.

20. An apparatus according to Claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: provide for reception of at least one indication of at least one set of time and frequency resources from the network node, wherein the at least one set of time and frequency resources are for reception of at least one backscattered signal, and wherein providing for the reception of the at least one indication is based at least in part on the received power.

21. A method comprising: providing for reception of an activation signal from a first node, wherein the activation signal comprises a test sequence, and wherein the test sequence is indicative of at least a first identifier associated with the first node; and providing for transmission of a backscattered signal to a second node based at least in part on the activation signal comprising the test sequence, wherein the backscattered signal is indicative of at least the first identifier and a second identifier associated with an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal comprises backscattering of the activation signal.

22. A method according to Claim 21, wherein the test sequence further indicates at least one of the following: a duration over which the first node is configured to transmit activation signaling to at least the AIoT device, or that the activation signal is a test signal.

23. A method comprising: providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a first set of parameters associated with transmission of a test sequence to at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device; providing for transmission of an activation signal to the AIoT device in accordance with the first set of parameters, wherein the activation signal comprises the test sequence, andwherein the test sequence is indicative of at least an identifier associated with a first node; and providing for reception of a second signal from the network node based at least in part on a received power associated with the activation signal, wherein the second signal is indicative of a first set of time and frequency resources for transmission of at least one activation signal to at least one AIoT device.

24. A method according to Claim 23, further comprising: providing for reception of a query from the network node, wherein the query pertains to a full duplexing capability of the first node, and wherein providing for the reception of the first signal is based at least in part the query.

25. A method comprising: providing for reception of a first signal from a network node, wherein the first signal is indicative of a set of parameters associated with reception of a backscattered signal from at least an ambient internet of things (AIoT) device, and wherein the backscattered signal is associated with a test sequence corresponding to a first node; providing for reception of the backscattered signal from the AIoT device in accordance with the set of parameters; and providing for transmission of a second signal to the network node, wherein the second signal is indicative of at least a received power associated with the backscattered signal associated with the test sequence.

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