Methods and apparatuses for CSI reporting

Abstract

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to channel state information (CSI) reporting. A method comprises receiving, by a first apparatus and from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and transmitting, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

Description

METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR CSI REPORTINGCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, Finland Application No. 20245406, filed 4 April 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.FIELDS

[0002] Various example embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of telecommunication and in particular, to methods, devices, apparatuses and computer readable storage medium for channel state information (CSI) reporting.BACKGROUND

[0003] In the telecommunication industry, artificial intelligence / machine learning (AI / ML) models have been employed in telecommunication systems to improve the performance. For example, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release-18 started the study on Artificial Intelligence (AI)ZMachine Learning (ML) for New Radio (NR) air interface. The goal is to explore the benefits of augmenting the air interface with features enabling improved support of AI / ML- based algorithms for enhanced performance and / or reduced complexity / overhead. Several use cases are considered to enable the identification of a common AI / ML framework, including functional requirements of AI / ML architecture, which could be used in subsequent projects. It also aims to identify areas where AI / ML could improve the performance of air-interface functions.SUMMARY

[0004] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a first apparatus. The first apparatus comprises at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus at least to: receive, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; receive, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and transmit, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset. i

[0005] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a second apparatus. The second apparatus comprises at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second apparatus at least to: transmit, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; transmit, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and receive, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0006] In a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method. The method comprises: receiving, by a first apparatus and from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and transmitting, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0007] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method. The method comprises: transmitting, by a second apparatus and to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; transmitting, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and receiving, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0008] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a first apparatus. The first apparatus comprises means for receiving, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for transmitting, basedon the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0009] In a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a second apparatus. The second apparatus comprises means for transmitting, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for transmitting, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for receiving, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0010] In a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium comprises instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus to perform at least the method according to the third aspect.

[0011] In an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium comprises instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus to perform at least the method according to the fourth aspect.

[0012] It is to be understood that the Summary section is not intended to identify key or essential features of embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become easily comprehensible through the following description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, where:

[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication environment in which example embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented;

[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart of a signaling flow for CSI reporting in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method implemented at a first apparatus in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method implemented at a second apparatus in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a simplified block diagram of a device that is suitable for implementing example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0019] FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of an example computer readable medium in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar element.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Principle of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It is to be understood that these embodiments are described only for the purpose of illustration and help those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present disclosure, without suggesting any limitation as to the scope of the disclosure. Embodiments described herein can be implemented in various manners other than the ones described below.

[0022] In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skills in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0023] References in the present disclosure to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” and the like indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but it is not necessary that every embodiment includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0024] It shall be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,”..., etc. in front of noun(s) and the like may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another and they do not limit the order of the noun(s). For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of example embodiments. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0025] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by “and” or “or”, mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two ormore of the elements, or at least all the elements.

[0026] As used herein, unless stated explicitly, performing a step “in response to A” does not indicate that the step is performed immediately after “A” occurs and one or more intervening steps may be included.

[0027] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “has”, “having”, “includes” and / or “including”, when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components etc., but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components and / or combinations thereof.

[0028] As used in this application, the term “circuitry” may refer to one or more or all of the following:(a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry) and(b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable):(i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and(ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions) and(c) hardware ci rcuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0029] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0030] As used herein, the term “communication network” refers to a network following any suitable communication standards, such as New Radio (NR), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE- Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High-Speed PacketAccess (HSPA), Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-loT) and so on. Furthermore, the communications between a terminal device and a network device in the communication network may be performed according to any suitable generation communication protocols, including, but not limited to, the first generation (1 G), the second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, the third generation (3G), the fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, the fifth generation (5G), the sixth generation (6G) communication protocols, and / or any other protocols either currently known or to be developed in the future. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied in various communication systems. Given the rapid development in communications, there will of course also be future type communication technologies and systems with which the present disclosure may be embodied. It should not be seen as limiting the scope of the present disclosure to only the aforementioned system.

[0031] As used herein, the term “network device” refers to a node in a communication network via which a terminal device accesses the network and receives services therefrom. The network device may refer to a base station (BS) or an access point (AP), for example, a node B (NodeB or NB), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB or eNB), an NR NB (also referred to as a gNB), a Remote Radio Unit (RRU), a radio header (RH), a remote radio head (RRH), a relay, an Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) node, a low power node such as a femto, a pico, a non-terrestrial network (NTN) or non-ground network device such as a satellite network device, a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite and a geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) satellite, an aircraft network device, and so forth, depending on the applied terminology and technology. In some example embodiments, radio access network (RAN) split architecture comprises a Centralized Unit (CU) and a Distributed Unit (DU) at an IAB donor node. An IAB node comprises a Mobile Terminal (IAB-MT) part that behaves like a UE toward the parent node, and a DU part of an IAB node behaves like a base station toward the next-hop IAB node.

[0032] The term “terminal device” refers to any end device that may be capable of wireless communication. By way of example rather than limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), a Subscriber Station (SS), a Portable Subscriber Station, a Mobile Station (MS), or an Access Terminal (AT). The terminal device may include, but not limited to, a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a smart phone, voice over IP (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, a tablet, a wearable terminal device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), portable computers, desktop computer, image capture terminal devices such as digital cameras, gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback appliances, vehiclemounted wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop-embedded equipment (LEE), laptop-mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, smart devices, wirelesscustomer-premises equipment (CPE), an I nternet of Things (loT) device, a watch or other wearable, a head-mounted display (HMD), a vehicle, a drone, a medical device and applications (e.g., remote surgery), an industrial device and applications (e.g., a robot and / or other wireless devices operating in an industrial and / or an automated processing chain contexts), a consumer electronics device, a device operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, and the like. The terminal device may also correspond to a Mobile Termination (MT) part of an IAB node (e.g., a relay node). In the following description, the terms “terminal device”, “communication device”, “terminal”, “user equipment” and “UE” may be used interchangeably.

[0033] As used herein, the term “resource,” “transmission resource,” “resource block,” “physical resource block” (PRB), “uplink resource,” or “downlink resource” may refer to any resource for performing a communication, for example, a communication between a terminal device and a network device, such as a resource in time domain, a resource in frequency domain, a resource in space domain, a resource in code domain, or any other combination of the time, frequency, space and / or code domain resource enabling a communication, and the like. In the following, unless explicitly stated, a resource in both frequency domain and time domain will be used as an example of a transmission resource for describing some example embodiments of the present disclosure. It is noted that example embodiments of the present disclosure are equally applicable to other resources in other domains.

[0034] As used herein, the term “model” is referred to as an association between an input and an output learned from training data, and thus a corresponding output may be generated for a given input after the training. The generation of the model may be based on machine learning (ML) techniques. The machine learning techniques may also be referred to as artificial intelligence (Al) techniques. In general, a machine learning model can be built, which receives input information and makes predictions based on the input information. For example, a classification model may predict a class of the input information among a predetermined set of classes. As used herein, “model” may also be referred to as “machine learning model”, “learning model”, “machine learning network”, or “learning network,” which are used interchangeably herein.

[0035] To facilitate understanding of the terminologies, some definitions of the list of terminologies used for AI / ML are provided below.

[0036] AI / ML model: A data driven algorithm that applies AI / ML techniques to generate a set of outputs based on a set of inputs.

[0037] AI / ML model delivery: A generic term referring to delivery of an AI / ML model from one entity to another entity in any manner. Note: An entity could mean a network node / function (e.g., gNB, location management function (LMF), etc.), UE, proprietary server, etc.

[0038] AI / ML model inference: A process of using a trained AI / ML model to produce a set of outputs based on a set of inputs.

[0039] AI / ML model testing: A subprocess of training, to evaluate the performance of a final AI / ML model using a dataset different from one used for model training and validation. Differently from AI / ML model validation, testing does not assume subsequent tuning of the model.

[0040] AI / ML model training: A process to train an AI / ML Model [by learning the input / output relationship] in a data driven manner and obtain the trained AI / ML Model for inference.

[0041] AI / ML model transfer: Delivery of an AI / ML model over the air interface in a manner that is not transparent to 3GPP signalling, either parameters of a model structure known at the receiving end or a new model with parameters. Delivery may contain a full model or a partial model.

[0042] AI / ML model validation: A subprocess of training, to evaluate the quality of an AI / ML model using a dataset different from one used for model training, that helps selecting model parameters that generalize beyond the dataset used for model training.

[0043] Data collection: A process of collecting data by the network nodes, management entity, or UE for the purpose of AI / ML model training, data analytics and inference.

[0044] Functionality identification: A process / method of identifying an AI / ML functionality for the common understanding between the network and the UE. Note: Information regarding the AI / ML functionality may be shared during functionality identification. Where AI / ML functionality resides depends on the specific use cases and sub use cases.

[0045] Model activation: enable an AI / ML model for a specific function.

[0046] Model deactivation: disable an AI / ML model for a specific function.

[0047] Model download: Model transfer from the network to UE.

[0048] Model identification: A process / method of identifying an AI / ML model for the common understanding between the network (NW) and the UE. Note: The process / method of model identification may or may not be applicable. Note: Information regarding the AI / ML model may be shared during model identification.

[0049] Model monitoring: A procedure that monitors the inference performance of the AI / ML model.

[0050] Model parameter update: Process of updating the model parameters of a model.

[0051] Model selection: The process of selecting an AI / ML model for activation among multiple models for the same AI / ML enabled feature. Note: Model selection may or may not be carried out simultaneously with model activation.

[0052] Model switching: Deactivating a currently active AI / ML model and activating a different AI / ML model for a specific function.

[0053] Model update: Process of updating the model parameters and / or model structure of a model.

[0054] Model upload: Model transfer from UE to the network.

[0055] UE-side (AI / ML) model: An AI / ML Model whose inference is performed entirely at the UE.

[0056] Network-side (AI / ML) model: An AI / ML Model whose inference is performed entirely at the network.

[0057] One-sided (AI / ML) model: A UE-side (AI / ML) model or a Network-side (AI / ML) model.

[0058] Two-sided (AI / ML) model: A paired AI / ML Model(s) over which joint inference is performed, where joint inference comprises AI / ML Inference whose inference is performed jointly across the UE and the network, i.e, the first part of inference is firstly performed by UE and then the remaining part is performed by the gNB, or vice versa.

[0059] Proprietary-format models: ML models of vendor-Zdevice-specific proprietary format, from 3GPP perspective. They are not mutually recognizable across vendors and hide model design information from other vendors when shared. Note: An example is a device-specific binary executable format.

[0060] Open-format models: ML models of specified format that are mutually recognizable across vendors and allow interoperability, from the 3GPP perspective. They are mutually recognizable between vendors and do not hide model design information from other vendors when shared.

[0061] FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication environment 100 in which example embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented. It is to be understood that the elements shown in the communication system 100 are intended to represent main functions provided within the system. As such, the blocks shown in FIG. 1 reference specific elements in communication networks that provide these main functions. However, other network elements may be used to implement some or all of the main functions represented. Also, it is to be understood that not all functions of a communication network are depicted in FIG. 1. Rather, functions that facilitate an explanation of illustrative embodiments are represented. Further, the number of the elements shown in FIG. 1 is also for the purpose of illustrative only and there may be any number of elements.

[0062] As shown, the communication environment 100 comprises a plurality of communication devices, including one or more first apparatuses 110-1 , 110-2, ..., 110-N (collectively or individually referred to as first apparatuses 110) and one or more second apparatuses 120. In the example of FIG. 1 , the second apparatus 120 may include a network device, and the first apparatus110 may include a terminal device. A serving area of the second apparatus 120 may be called a cell. The first apparatus 110 and the second apparatus 120 may operate in a radio access network (RAN). Although two terminal devices (e.g., first apparatuses) are illustrated, there may be more or less terminal devices within a serving area of a network device, and there may also be more network devices serving the terminal devices in the communication environment 100.

[0063] In the following, for the purpose of illustration, some example embodiments are described with the first apparatus 110 operating as a terminal device and the second apparatus 120 operating as a network device. However, in some example embodiments, operations described in connection with a terminal device may be implemented at a network device or other device, and operations described in connection with a network device may be implemented at a terminal device or other device.

[0064] In some example embodiments, if the first apparatus 110 is a terminal device and the second apparatus 120 is a network device, a link from the second apparatus 120 to the first apparatus 110 is referred to as a downlink (DL), and a link from the first apparatus 110 to the second apparatus 120 is referred to as an uplink (UL). In DL, the second apparatus 120 is a transmitting (TX) device (or a transmitter) and the first apparatus 110 is a receiving (RX) device (or a receiver). In UL, the first apparatus 110 is a TX device (or a transmitter) and the second apparatus 120 is a RX device (or a receiver).

[0065] Communications in the communication environment 100 may be implemented according to any proper communication protocol(s), comprising, but not limited to, cellular communication protocols of the first generation (1 G), the second generation (2G), the third generation (3G), the fourth generation (4G), the fifth generation (5G), the sixth generation (6G), and the like, wireless local network communication protocols such as Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 and the like, and / or any other protocols currently known or to be developed in the future. Moreover, the communication may utilize any proper wireless communication technology, comprising but not limited to: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), Time Division Duplex (TDD), Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple (OFDM), Discrete Fourier Transform spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM) and / or any other technologies currently known or to be developed in the future.

[0066] In some example embodiments, different AI / ML models may be configured to implement the same different algorithms in the communication environment 100. An AI / ML model 105 may sometimes be referred to as an Al model or an ML model for short. Inference, testing, training, and / or validation of an AI / ML model may be performed at one or more of the first apparatuses 110,the second apparatus 120, and / or other entities. In the example of FIG. 1 , an AI / ML model 105 is illustrated to be deployed at the side of the second apparatus 120, and thus is a network-side AI / ML model. An AI / ML model may be delivered from one entity to another entity in any manner. Delivery of an AI / ML model over the air interface in a manner that is not transparent to 3GPP signalling, either parameters of a model structure known at the receiving end or a new model with parameters. Delivery may contain a full model or a partial model.

[0067] AI / ML-based beam management and related functionality are introduced in the NR MIMO framework. It has been proposed to leverage AI / ML models to predict the best beam(s) based on a limited set of measurements.

[0068] In some example embodiments related to Al-based beam management (BM), the AI / ML model 105 is configured for beam prediction. For Al-based beam management, there are proposed some example use cases. A first use cause is related to spatial-domain prediction, to perform beam prediction based on a limited set of measurements that does not contain any historical information. A second use case is related to time-domain prediction, to perform beam prediction into the future based on a limited set of measurements that contains historical information.

[0069] The measurements and prediction are based on two beam sets. Set A is the complete set of beams over which the prediction will operate. Set B is the set of beams whose measurements are inputted to the AI / ML model (e.g., Layer 1 -Reference Signal Received Power, L1-RSRP, etc.). In some embodiments, Set B can be different from Set A (space-domain and time-domain prediction). In some embodiments, Set B can be a subset of Set A (space-domain and time-domain prediction). In some embodiments, Set B can be the same as Set A (time-domain prediction).

[0070] In the communication specifications, it is studied to provide specification support for the following aspects:Beam management - DL Tx beam prediction for both UE-sided model and NW-sided model, encompassing [RAN1 / RAN2]: o Spatial-domain DL Tx beam prediction for Set A of beams based on measurement results of Set B of beams (“BM-Case1”); o Temporal DL Tx beam prediction for Set A of beams based on the historic measurement results of Set B of beams (“BM-Case2”); o Specify necessary signalling / mechanism(s) to facilitate LCM operations specific to the Beam Management use cases, if any; o Enabling method(s) to ensure consistency between training and inference regarding NW- side additional conditions (if identified) for inference at UE.

[0071] Some discussions on AI / ML for beam management resulted in the following agreements:• Beam reporting enhancement for NW-sided model: more than 4 beams can be reported in a report, FFS reported contents.• Beam reporting to support inference operation for UE-sided model: beam info (option 1) or beam info + RSRP (option 2) can be reported for Top-K prediction in set A (prediction set). FFS some other options and further details.• Beam indication for NW / UE-sided models: signalling is based on unified TCI state framework.• Set B (measurement set) configuration for UE-sided model: reuse measurement set configuration in CSI framework.

[0072] As part of the L1 beam reporting enhancement for AI / ML model inference, it is indicated that the UE may report the measurement results of more than 4 beams in a reporting instance, e.g., via a CSI report. In addition, for BM case 2, reporting information on measurements from more than one past time instance may be included in one reporting instance. This applies to the NW-side AI / ML model and the potential performance gains of measurement reporting should be justified by considering the UCI (Uplink Control Information) payload overhead. This invention focuses on the highlighted points.

[0073] For beam reporting, several technical aspects of the CSI framework, configuration, L1 - RSRP reporting, and UCI bit sequence generation should be considered.

[0074] The CSI reporting framework capability includes parameters defining the maximum number of periodic / aperiodic CSI reports that can be configured per CC (Component Carrier), per BWP (Bandwidth Part) and per beam. Moreover, it specifies the concurrent CSI reports per CC that the UE can measure and process, including periodic, semi-persistent and aperiodic CSI, including beam reports.

[0075] The CSI report configuration includes the configuration parameters used to set up periodic, aperiodic or semi-persistent CSI reports sent on the PUCCH or PUSCH for a particular cell or triggered by downlink control information (DCI). It includes fields such as report quantity, frequency domain configuration, time domain behaviour and channel measurement resource allocation that affect how the UE perform reports based on different configurations.

[0076] L1 RSRP reporting considers how the UE calculates and reports L1-RSRP. It covers configurations involving CSI-RS (Channel State Information-Reference Signal) resources, SS / PBCH (Synchronization Signal / Physical Broadcast Channel) block resources or both, detailing limitations on the number of CSI-RS resource sets and resources within those sets. It also explains how L1-RSRP is quantized and reported based on different scenarios, considering group-basedreporting, differential reporting, and channel measurement timing with respect to SS / PBCH or NZP CSI-RS.

[0077] UCI bit sequence generation deals with the generation of UCI bit sequences for uplink transmission. It defines the specific order or mapping of CSI fields within a report for different reporting scenarios such as CRI (CSI-RS resource indicator) / RSRP, SSBRI (Synchronization Signal Block Resource I ndicator) / RSRP or Capability Index reporting. It provides details on the structure of the CSI reports, including CRI, RSRP and Capability Index, for transmission within the UCI.

[0078] These aspects are integral for defining how CSI is handled, reported, and utilized in the communication system by UE. Each section covers specific technical aspects, configurations and procedures related to CSI reporting, L1-RSRP calculation and UCI bit sequence generation, which are critical for establishing and maintaining the communication link between the network and UE, while enabling efficient use of CSI for data transmission and reception.

[0079] For beam prediction at the NW side, the network device needs to consider measurements corresponding to a Set B (i.e., beam measurement set considered at the model input). In some implementations, the network device can enable beam reporting of more than 4 beam-related information where the beams are corresponding one measurement resource set. There are some issues regarding the reporting content for beam related information.

[0080] From the Rel-18 study item findings, AI / ML models perform better when the model training is done based on fixed beam patterns for Set B, and it is important to ensure to use similar beam patterns for Set B in the inference stage in order to get the good beam prediction accuracy levels. Even though details on beam patterns are discussed in high-level, it was not clear how to configure or enable such framework in NR CSI reporting.

[0081] In the legacy beam reporting, CRI (or SSBRI) is always reported with the L1-RSRP (or L1-SINR, Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio), and some overhead reduction techniques may be considered if the number of beam related information becomes higher.

[0082] In accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a solution for CSI reporting. A first apparatus (e.g., a terminal device) receives, from a second apparatus (e.g., a network device), a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively. If the first apparatus further receives a CSI reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set, it transmits, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resourcesubsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0083] This solution defines the configuration of reference signal resource set (e.g., for beam prediction) and defines how to indicate the resource subset for reporting. With the configuration of the resource subsets, the terminal device can select and efficiently report measurement information about one or more specific reference signal resource subsets.

[0084] Example embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0085] FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart of a signaling flow 200 for CSI reporting in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, reference is made to FIG. 1 to describe the signaling flow 200. As shown in FIG. 2, the signaling flow 200 involves the first apparatus 110 and the second apparatus 120. In some example embodiments, the first apparatus 110 may comprise or may be comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus 120 may be comprise or may be comprised in a network device (e.g., gNB, gNB CU or gNB DU, etc.).

[0086] In the signaling flow 200, the second apparatus 120 transmits (205) and the first apparatus 110 receives (210) a configuration of a RS resource set. The configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of RS resource subsets within the RS resource set, respectively. The RL resource set may be a DL RS resource set. The first apparatus 110 can be configured with a DL RS resource set.

[0087] In some example embodiments, the RS resource set or the DL RS resource set may comprise a non-zero power channel state information RS (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set. The RS resources in the set may include NZP-CSI-RS resources. In some example embodiments, the RS resource set may comprise a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource set. The RS resources in the set may include SSB indices.

[0088] In some example embodiments, each of the plurality of RS resource subsets comprises more than one RS resource within the RS resource set. Thus, the first apparatus 110 may be configured with a DL RS resource set (e.g., a NZP-CSI-RS resource set or SSB resource set), where the DL RS resource set configuration comprises more than one resource subset configuration with each subset configuration containing more than one DL RS resource (NZP-CSI- RS resources or SSB indices).

[0089] Then the second apparatus 120 transmits (215) and the first apparatus 110 receives (220) a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the RS resource set. The first apparatus 110 is thus further configured with a CSI reporting configuration with the DL RS resource set which comprises more than one RS resource subsets.

[0090] The first apparatus 110 is expected to measure RS resources corresponding to the RS resource set (that means RS resources of more than one RS resource subset) and determine measurement information related to the RS resources within the RS resource set. In some example embodiments, for example, to enable NW-side beam prediction or for other purpose at the NW side, the measurement information comprises layer 1 RS received power (L1 -RSRP) or L1 -signal- to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR) for the measured DL RS resources.

[0091] The first apparatus 110 transmits (225), based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus 120, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of RS resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one RS resource subset.

[0092] The second apparatus 120 receives (230) the CSI report from the first apparatus 110. With the indication information in the CSI report, the second apparatus 120 may determine the indicated at least one RS resource subset and may apply the measurement information related to the at least one RS resource subset for further use.

[0093] In some example embodiments, at the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting (to enable NW-sided beam prediction). In accordance with a determination that the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting, the first apparatus 110 may perform the measurement on the RS resources in the RS resource set, and then transmit, to the second apparatus 120, the CSI report comprising the indication information and the measurement information.

[0094] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus 110 may determine, from the plurality of RS resource subsets, the at least one RS resource subset for reporting based on a subset selection criterion. In some example embodiments, the first apparatus 110 is expected (or defined) to determine at least one RS resource subset for reporting from the more than one resource subset. In some example embodiments, the at least one resource subset may be determined based on one of the following subset selection criteria.

[0095] In an example embodiment, the first apparatus 110 may select a RS resource subset comprising a predetermined number of RSs with best measurement information. In an example embodiment, the subset selection criterion is defined to select the resource subset which comprises the best-K DL RSs (i.e., strongest K beams that providing highest L1-RSRP (L1-SINR)). The selected RS resource subset comprises all or most of the best-K DL RS. In some examples, K can be 1 by default or K may be defined to the first apparatus 110.

[0096] In an example embodiment, the first apparatus 110 may select a RS resource subset comprising RSs with an expected variation for the measurement information. In an exampleembodiment, the subset selection criterion is defined to select the resource subset which comprises DL RSs that results less variation for the measured L1 -RSRP (L1-SINR). For example, the selected RS resource subset comprises DL RSs that results less variation for the measured L1-RSRP. In some examples, the variation may be defined in dBs to the first apparatus 110.

[0097] In an example embodiment, the first apparatus 110 may select a RS resource subset comprising RSs with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold. In some examples, the predetermined threshold may be a minimum threshold. In an example embodiment, the subset selection criterion is defined to select the resource subset which comprises DL RSs that satisfying a minimum threshold for L1-RSRP (L1 -SINR) for all DL RSs. In some examples, the minimum L1-RSRP may be defined in dBs to the first apparatus 110. The selected resource subset comprises DL RSs that satisfying a minimum threshold for L1 -RSRP / L1 -SINR for all DL RSs.

[0098] In other example embodiments, any other criteria may be defined as the requirements that shall satisfied in the measurements of DL RS of a RS resource subset.

[0099] In some example embodiments, the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one RS resource subset. When reporting (i.e., CSI reporting) corresponding to the CSI reporting configuration, the first apparatus 110 may report a bit field that identifies a resource subset and corresponding L1-RSRP (L1-SINR) for all DL RS resources associated with the resource subset.

[0100] In some example embodiments, a dimension of a bit field identifying a RS resource subset may be determined based on the number of RS resource subsets within the RS resource set. In some examples, the bit field that identifying a resource subset has a dimension that defines by ceil(log2(X)), where X is the number of RS resource subsets associated with the configured DL RS resource set.

[0101] In some example embodiments, the measurement information related to a RS resource subset may be arranged in the CSI report in an order of RS resources corresponding to the RS resource subset. In some examples, all L1-RSRP (or L1 -SI NR) may be reported in the order of RS resources corresponding to the RS resource subset. Also, the reporting of L1 -RSRP (or L1 -SINR) can be absolute and / or differential values. If the reporting of L1-RSRP is differential, the L1-RSRP may be determined corresponding to an absolute L1-RSRP of a reference RS resource (CRI, SSBRI), and the reference RS resource may be defined to the UE or determined at the UE. In one variant, the reference RS resource can be the first or last RS resource within the RS resource subset. In another variant, the reference RS resource can be the RS resource which has the highest L1-RSRP value. In this variant, the reference RS resource may also be reported.

[0102] One embodiment of implementing details in the communication specifications isprovided as below. An NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet may define CSI-RS beams where the number of CSI-RS beams in a resource subset can be up to a limit that the network wishes to configure according to the reported UE capabilities (e.g., max size can be L). Also, each NZP-CSI- RS-ResourceSet may be defined with multiple NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet, where max limit can be up to the UE capability (e.g., a max limit can be M). Here, each NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSet is corresponding to a RS resource subset as discussed above. The IE NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet is a set of Non-Zero-Power (NZP) CSI-RS resources (their IDs). The definition of the NZP-CSI- RS-ResourceSubSet information element is provided as follows in Table 1.Table 1 : NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet information element

[0103] NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSet information element may also be changed as follows in Table 2, to indicate the nzp-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet. The IE NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSet is a set of Non- Zero-Power (NZP) CSI-RS resources (their IDs) and set-specific parameters. IE NZP-CSI-RS- ResourceSet is corresponding to the RS resource set as discussed above. Table 2: NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSet information element

[0104] In some example embodiments, the multiplicity and type constraint values, i.e., the maximum number of NZP-CSI-RS resources in each resource subset (maxNrofNZP-CSI-RS- ResourcesPerSubSet) and the maximum number of NZP-CSI-RS resource subsets (maxNrofNZP- CSI-RS-ResourceSubSets) may be defined in RRC as follows in Table 3.Table 3

[0105] When the network device wishes to configure a beam pattern, the network device can configure corresponding RSs to consider in the beam pattern and refer that as an NZP-CSI-RS- ResourceSubSet. When the NW-sided model trained with M number of fixed beam patterns, the NW has the option to configure up to M NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSets, and UE can report the measurements corresponding to best pattern (i.e., best NZP-CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet) that the UE observe.

[0106] In some example embodiments, when the CSI reporting corresponding to reporting beams corresponding to a determi ned / selected resource subset (e.g., NZP-CSI-RS- ResourceSubSet or CSI-SSB-ResourceSubSet), the reporting can consider the following. The bit width that identifying a resource subset index, RSRP, and differential RSRP are provided in Table 4.Table 4: Bit fields for Resource subset index, and RSRP

[0107] In Table 4, NCSI~RSis the configured number of CSI-RS resource subsets in the corresponding resource set, and NSSBis the configured number of SS / PBCH resource subsets inthe corresponding resource set.

[0108] For BM-Case 1 reporting, some examples of mapping order of CSI fields of one CSI report is determined by Tables 5A-5C, where beam indexes are not reported for each L1-RSRP (only the resource subset is reported). Number of L1-RSRP is the report depended on the number of RS resources in the selected resource subset. In Table 5A and Table 5C, RSRP #1 may be corresponding to the first beam in the resource subset; in Table 5B, RSRP #1 may be corresponding to the beam with the best RSRP in the resource subset.

[0109] For example, if the network device configures in RRC 128 RS resources, it implies that 7 bits are needed for reporting the CRI. Therefore, for the legacy approach the UCI report needs 7 bits for CRI with 7 or 4 bits for absolute or differential RSRP for each beam. In one example, considering 16 beams of report, UCI payload may carry 179 bit for reporting CRI + RSRP / differential RSRP for all beams. On the other hand, using the method proposed in the invention, if the network device configures in RRC 128 RS resources for the CSI-RS-ResourceSet and 16 different resource subsets (each resource subset, CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet, with 16 RS resources. Each resource subset can represents a fixed beam pattern considered for Set B), it implies that 4 bits needed for reporting the CRSI. Therefore, using the method proposed the UCI report needs 4 bits for CRSI corresponding to CSI-RS-ResourceSubSet reported with 7 or 4 bits for absolute or differential RSRP for each beam. In one example, considering 16 beams of report, UCI payload may carry 71 bit. Comparing the UCI payload between legacy approach and the ones of the method proposed, the UCI overhead reduction is 179-71 =108, showing that the proposed technique reduces the UCI overhead, and reduction may be even higher if the number of beam repeated information becomes higher.Table 5A: Mapping order of CSI fields of one CSI report for BM-CaselTable 5B: Mapping order of CSI fields of one CSI report for BM-Case1Table 5C: Mapping order of CSI fields of one CSI report for BM-Case1

[0110] For BM-Case2 reporting, an example of the ordering and mapping of the fields with the one CSI report for BM-Case2 is determined by Table 6, where beam indexes are not reported for each L1 -RSRP (only the resource subset is reported for each time instance). Also, the number of L1 -RSRP is the report depended on the number of RS resources in the selected resource subset. The example considers 3-time instances report.Table 6: Mapping order of CSI fields of one CSI report for BM-Case2.

[0111] FIG. 3 shows a flowchart of an example method 300 implemented at a first apparatus in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, the method 300 will be described from the perspective of the first apparatus 1 10 in FIG. 1.

[0112] At block 310, the first apparatus 1 10 receives, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively.

[0113] At block 320, the first apparatus 1 10 receives, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set.

[0114] At block 330, the first apparatus 1 10 transmits, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least oneof the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0115] In some example embodiments, each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

[0116] In some example embodiments, the method 300 further comprises: determining, from the plurality of reference signal resource subsets, the at least one reference signal resource subset for reporting based on a subset selection criterion.

[0117] In some example embodiments, the subset selection criterion is based on one of the following: selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising a predetermined number of reference signals with best measurement information, selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with an expected variation for the measurement information, or selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold.

[0118] In some example embodiments, the method 300 further comprises: in accordance with a determination that the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting, transmitting to the second apparatus, the CSI report comprising the indication information and the measurement information.

[0119] In some example embodiments, the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0120] In some example embodiments, a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

[0121] In some example embodiments, the measurement information related to a reference signal resource subset is arranged in the CSI report in an order of reference signal resources corresponding to the reference signal resource subset.

[0122] In some example embodiments, the reference signal resource set comprises a non-zero power channel state information reference signal (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set or a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource set, and / or wherein measurement information comprises layer 1 reference signal received power (L1-RSRP) or L1 -signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR).

[0123] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus is or is comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus is or is comprised in a network device.

[0124] FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of an example method 400 implemented at a second apparatus in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose ofdiscussion, the method 400 will be described from the perspective of the second apparatus 120 in FIG. 1.

[0125] At block 410, the second apparatus 120 transmits, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively.

[0126] At block 420, the second apparatus 120 transmits, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set.

[0127] At block 430, the second apparatus 120 receives, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0128] In some example embodiments, each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

[0129] In some example embodiments, the at least one reference signal resource subset comprises at least one of the following that is selected by the first apparatus from the reference signal resource set: a reference signal resource subset comprising a predetermined number of reference signals with best measurement information, a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with an expected variation for the measurement information, or a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold.

[0130] In some example embodiments, the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting.

[0131] In some example embodiments, the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset. In some example embodiments, a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

[0132] In some example embodiments, the measurement information related to a reference signal resource subset is arranged in the CSI report in an order of reference signal resources corresponding to the reference signal resource subset.

[0133] In some example embodiments, the reference signal resource set comprises a non-zero power channel state information reference signal (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set or a synchronizationsignal block (SSB) resource set. In some example embodiments, measurement information comprises layer 1 reference signal received power (L1-RSRP) or L1 -signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR).

[0134] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus is or is comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus is or is comprised in a network device.

[0135] In some example embodiments, a first apparatus capable of performing any of the method 300 (for example, the first apparatus 110 in FIG. 1 may comprise means for performing the respective operations of the method 300. The means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented in a circuitry or software module. The first apparatus may be implemented as or included in the first apparatus 110 in FIG. 1 .

[0136] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus comprises means for receiving, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for transmitting, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0137] In some example embodiments, each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

[0138] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further comprises: means for determining, from the plurality of reference signal resource subsets, the at least one reference signal resource subset for reporting based on a subset selection criterion.

[0139] In some example embodiments, the subset selection criterion is based on one of the following: selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising a predetermined number of reference signals with best measurement information, selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with an expected variation for the measurement information, or selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold.

[0140] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus further comprises: means for in accordance with a determination that the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting, transmitting to the second apparatus, the CSI report comprising the indication information and themeasurement information.

[0141] In some example embodiments, the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0142] In some example embodiments, a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

[0143] In some example embodiments, the measurement information related to a reference signal resource subset is arranged in the CSI report in an order of reference signal resources corresponding to the reference signal resource subset.

[0144] In some example embodiments, the reference signal resource set comprises a non-zero power channel state information reference signal (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set or a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource set, and / or wherein measurement information comprises layer 1 reference signal received power (L1-RSRP) or L1 -signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR).

[0145] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus is or is comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus is or is comprised in a network device.

[0146] In some example embodiments, a second apparatus capable of performing any of the method 400 (for example, the second apparatus 120 in FIG. 1 ) may comprise means for performing the respective operations of the method 400. The means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented in a circuitry or software module. The second apparatus may be implemented as or included in the second apparatus 120 in FIG. 1.

[0147] In some example embodiments, the second apparatus comprises means for transmitting, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for transmitting, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for receiving, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

[0148] In some example embodiments, each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

[0149] In some example embodiments, the at least one reference signal resource subset comprises at least one of the following that is selected by the first apparatus from the reference signal resource set: a reference signal resource subset comprising a predetermined number ofreference signals with best measurement information, a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with an expected variation for the measurement information, or a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold.

[0150] In some example embodiments, the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting.

[0151] In some example embodiments, the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset. In some example embodiments, a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

[0152] In some example embodiments, the measurement information related to a reference signal resource subset is arranged in the CSI report in an order of reference signal resources corresponding to the reference signal resource subset.

[0153] In some example embodiments, the reference signal resource set comprises a non-zero power channel state information reference signal (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set or a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource set. In some example embodiments, measurement information comprises layer 1 reference signal received power (L1-RSRP) or L1 -signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR).

[0154] In some example embodiments, the first apparatus is or is comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus is or is comprised in a network device.

[0155] FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of a device 500 that is suitable for implementing example embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 500 may be provided to implement a communication device, for example, the first apparatus 110 or the second apparatus 120 as shown in FIG. 1. The device 500 includes one or more processors 510, one or more memories 520 coupled to the processor 510, and one or more communication modules 540 coupled to the processor 510.

[0156] The communication module 540 is for bidirectional communications. The communication module 540 has one or more communication interfaces to facilitate communication with one or more other modules or devices. The communication interfaces may represent any interface that is necessary for communication with other network elements. In some example embodiments, the communication module 540 may include at least one antenna.

[0157] The processor 510 may be of any type suitable to the local technical network and may include one or more of the following: general purpose computers, special purpose computers,microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs) and processors based on multicore processor architecture, as non-limiting examples. The device 500 may have multiple processors, such as an application specific integrated circuit chip that is slaved in time to a clock which synchronizes the main processor.

[0158] The memory 520 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of the non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, a Read Only Memory (ROM) 524, an electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), a flash memory, a hard disk, a compact disc (CD), an optical disk, a laser disk, and other magnetic storage and / or optical storage. Examples of the volatile memories include, but are not limited to, a randomaccess memory (RAM) 522 and other volatile memories that will not last in the power-down duration.

[0159] A computer program 530 includes computer executable instructions that are executed by the associated processor 510. The instructions of the program 530 may include instructions for performing operations / acts of some example embodiments of the present disclosure. The program 530 may be stored in the memory, e.g., the ROM 524. The processor 510 may perform any suitable actions and processing by loading the program 530 into the RAM 522.

[0160] The example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by means of the program 530 so that the device 500 may perform any process of the disclosure as discussed with reference to FIG. 2 to FIG. 4. The example embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0161] In some example embodiments, the program 530 may be tangibly contained in a computer readable medium which may be included in the device 500 (such as in the memory 520) or other storage devices that are accessible by the device 500. The device 500 may load the program 530 from the computer readable medium to the RAM 522 for execution. In some example embodiments, the computer readable medium may include any types of non-transitory storage medium, such as ROM, EPROM, a flash memory, a hard disk, CD, DVD, and the like. The term “non-transitory,” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0162] FIG. 6 shows an example of the computer readable medium 600 which may be in form of CD, DVD or other optical storage disk. The computer readable medium 600 has the program 530 stored thereon.

[0163] Generally, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented in hardware, and other aspects may be implemented in firmware or softwarewhich may be executed by a controller, microprocessor or other computing device. Although various aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other pictorial representations, it is to be understood that the block, apparatus, system, technique or method described herein may be implemented in, as nonlimiting examples, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0164] Some example embodiments of the present disclosure also provide at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a computer readable medium, such as a non- transitory computer readable medium. The computer program product includes computerexecutable instructions, such as those included in program modules, being executed in a device on a target physical or virtual processor, to carry out any of the methods as described above. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, or the like that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The functionality of the program modules may be combined or split between program modules as desired in various embodiments. Machine-executable instructions for program modules may be executed within a local or distributed device. In a distributed device, program modules may be located in both local and remote storage media.

[0165] Program code for carrying out methods of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. The program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that the program code, when executed by the processor or controller, cause the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may execute entirely on a machine, partly on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the machine and partly on a remote machine or entirely on the remote machine or server.

[0166] In the context of the present disclosure, the computer program code or related data may be carried by any suitable carrier to enable the device, apparatus or processor to perform various processes and operations as described above. Examples of the carrier include a signal, computer readable medium, and the like.

[0167] The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. A computer readable medium may include but not limited to an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of the computer readable storage medium would include an electrical connection having one or more wires, aportable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0168] Further, although operations are depicted in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Likewise, although several specific implementation details are contained in the above discussions, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Unless explicitly stated, certain features that are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, unless explicitly stated, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in a plurality of embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0169] Although the present disclosure has been described in languages specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the present disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A first apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus at least to: receive, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; receive, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and transmit, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

2. The first apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

3. The first apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first apparatus is further caused to: determine, from the plurality of reference signal resource subsets, the at least one reference signal resource subset for reporting based on a subset selection criterion.

4. The first apparatus of claim 3, wherein the subset selection criterion is based on one of the following: selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising a predetermined number of reference signals with best measurement information, selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with an expected variation for the measurement information, or selecting a reference signal resource subset comprising reference signals with the measurement information satisfying a predetermined threshold.

5. The first apparatus of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first apparatus is caused to: in accordance with a determination that the CSI reporting configuration is used for beam reporting, transmit, to the second apparatus, the CSI report comprising the indication information and the measurement information.

6. The first apparatus of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset.

7. The first apparatus of claim 6, wherein a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

8. The first apparatus of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the measurement information related to a reference signal resource subset is arranged in the CSI report in an order of reference signal resources corresponding to the reference signal resource subset.

9. The first apparatus of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the reference signal resource set comprises a non-zero power channel state information reference signal (NZP-CSI-RS) resource set or a synchronization signal block (SSB) resource set, and / or wherein measurement information comprises layer 1 reference signal received power (L1 -RSRP) or L1 -signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (L1-SINR).

10. The first apparatus of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first apparatus is or is comprised in a terminal device, and the second apparatus is or is comprised in a network device.11 . A second apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second apparatus at least to: transmit, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; transmit, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; andreceive, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

12. The second apparatus of claim 11 , wherein each of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets comprises more than one reference signal resource within the reference signal resource set.

13. The second apparatus of claim 11 or 12, wherein the indication information in the CSI report comprises at least one bit field each identifying one of the at least one reference signal resource subset; and wherein a dimension of a bit field identifying a reference signal resource subset is determined based on the number of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set.

14. A method comprising: receiving, by a first apparatus and from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively. receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set. transmitting, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

15. A method comprising: transmitting, by a second apparatus and to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively. transmitting, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set. receiving, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

16. A first apparatus comprising: means for receiving, from a second apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for receiving, from the second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for transmitting, based on the CSI reporting configuration and to the second apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

17. A second apparatus comprising: means for transmitting, to a first apparatus, a configuration of a reference signal resource set, the configuration comprising a plurality of configurations corresponding to a plurality of reference signal resource subsets within the reference signal resource set, respectively; means for transmitting, to the first second apparatus, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration associated with the reference signal resource set; and means for receiving, from the first apparatus, a CSI report comprising indication information indicating at least one of the plurality of reference signal resource subsets and measurement information related to the at least one reference signal resource subset.

18. A computer readable medium comprising instructions stored thereon for causing an apparatus at least to perform the method of claim 14 or the method of claim 15.

Images