Enhanced lower layer trigger mobility with multi-reception

Abstract

In accordance with example embodiments of the invention there is at least a method and apparatus to perform determining and communicating at a target network node of a target network and a source network node of a source network node, multi- transmission and multi-reception capabilities of a user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining and / or communicating, preparing information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the preparing, sending towards or receiving from the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

Description

ENHANCED LOWER LAYER TRIGGER MOBILITY WITH MULTI-RECEPTION TECHNICAL FIELD:

[0001] The teachings in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of this invention relate generally to where signalling overhead involved in activation of m-TRP operation post lower layer triggered mobility as well as the interruption in m-TRP operation due to LTM is significantly reduced. BACKGROUND:

[0002] This section is intended to provide a background or context to the invention that is recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

[0003] Certain abbreviations that may be found in the description and / or in the Figures are herewith defined as follows: CMR channel measurements resource CSI Channel state information Enum enumeration GBBR Group based beam reporting LMT Lower layer trigger mobility M-DCI Multi DCI MRx Multi Reception MTx Multi Transmission NW Network PDCCH Physical downlink control channelPDSCH Physical downlink share channel PUCCH Physical uplink control channel PUSCH Physical uplink share channel. RMSI Remaining system information S-DCI Single DCI SIB System information block TRPs Transceiver Points UE User Equipment

[0004] There are two different operation modes to schedule multi-TRP PDSCH transmissions: single-DCI and multi-DCI. For both modes, control of uplink and downlink operation can be done by physical layer and MAC layer, within the configuration provided by the RRC layer.

[0005] Example embodiments of this invention proposes improved operations for at least scheduling multi-TRP transmissions. SUMMARY:

[0006] This section contains examples of possible implementations and is not meant to be limiting.

[0007] In another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus, such as a target network side 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: determine at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi- reception capabilities of user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, prepare information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in thecommunication network; and based on the preparing, send towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

[0008] In still another example aspect of the invention, there is a method, comprising: determining at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi- reception capabilities of user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, preparing information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the preparing, sending towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

[0009] A further example embodiment is an apparatus and a method comprising the apparatus and the method of the previous paragraphs, wherein there is sending towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message; and based on the communicating, receiving from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to, and / or wherein there is receiving from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities.

[0010] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code, the program code executed by at least one processor to perform at least the method as described in the paragraphs above.

[0011] In yet another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus comprising: means for determining at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, preparing information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and means, based on the preparing, for sending towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

[0012] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for determining and sending comprises a network interface, and computer program code stored on a computer-readable medium and executed by at least one processor.

[0013] In another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus, such as a network side 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: communicate with a source network node information for the handover of the user equipment to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the information start a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

[0014] In still another example aspect of the invention, there is a method, comprising: communicating with a source network node information for the handover of the user equipment to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on theinformation, starting a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

[0015] A further example embodiment is an apparatus and a method comprising the apparatus and the method of the previous paragraphs, wherein sending towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message; and based on the communicating, receiving from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to, and / or wherein there is receiving from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities.

[0016] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code, the program code executed by at least one processor to perform at least the method as described in the paragraphs above.

[0017] In yet another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus comprising: means for communicating with a source network node information for the handover of the user equipment to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and mean, based on the information, for starting a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

[0018] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for communicating and starting comprises a network interface, and computer program code stored on a computer-readable medium and executed by at least one processor.

[0019] A communication system comprising the network side apparatus and the user equipment side apparatus performing operations as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

[0020] The above and other aspects, features, and benefits of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference signs are used to designate like or equivalent elements. The drawings are illustrated for facilitating better understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale, in which:

[0021] FIG. 1 shows Multi-Rx reception through s-DCI mode;

[0022] FIG. 2 shows Multi-Rx reception through m-DCI mode;

[0023] FIG. 3 shows a Signalling procedure for LTM;

[0024] FIG. 4 shows Signalling procedure for legacy way of m-Tx / Rx establishment after LTM procedure including operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 5 shows a UE is engaged in m-Tx / Rx operation with source node in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

[0026] FIG. 6 shows an Enhanced m-Tx / Rx aware LTM procedure in accordance with example embodiments of the invention (novel aspects shown by left side asterisks *).

[0027] FIG. 7 shows a high level block diagram of various devices used in carrying out various aspects of the invention; and

[0028] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B each show a method in accordance with example embodiments of the invention which may be performed by an apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0029] In example embodiments of this invention there is proposed at least a method and apparatus where signalling overhead involved in activation of m-TRP operation post lower layer triggered mobility as well as the interruption in m-TRP operation due to LTM is significantly reduced.

[0030] Multi-Tx / Rx : NR cell may comprise one or multiple TRPs. TRPs of the same cell have a common SS / PBCH block which is cell specific. In Multiple Transmit / Receive Point (multi-TRP) operation, a serving cell can schedule the UE from two TRPs, providing better coverage, reliability and / or data rates for PDSCH, PDCCH, PUSCH, and PUCCH.

[0031] As similarly stated above, there are two different operation modes to schedule multi-TRP PDSCH transmissions: single-DCI and multi-DCI. For both modes, control of uplink and downlink operation can be done by physical layer and MAC layer, within the configuration provided by the RRC layer. In single-DCI mode, the UE is scheduled by the same DCI for both TRPs and in multi-DCI mode, the UE is scheduled by independent DCIs from each TRP. Furthermore, s-DCI and m-DCI are independent capabilities meaning a UE may either support any one of these or both capabilities depending on its implementation.

[0032] FIG. 1 shows Multi-Rx reception through s-DCI mode. As shown in FIG. 1 there is communication between a UE to a primary serving TRP and a secondary serving TRP. As shown in FIG. 1 the UE is receiving PDCCH, S DCI and PDSCH, TCI #1 from the primary serving TRP and receiving PDSCH, TCI #2 from the secondary serving TRP.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows Multi-Rx reception through m-DCI mode. As shown in FIG. 2 there is communication between a UE to a primary serving TRP and a secondary serving TRP. As shown in FIG. 1 the UE is receiving PDCCH, DCI #1 and PDSCH, TCI #1 from the primary serving TRP and receiving PDCCH DCI #1 and PDSCH, TCI #2 from the secondary serving TRP.

[0034] FIG. 3 shows a Signalling procedure for LTM.

[0035] Legacy LTM can be explained as FIG. 3.

[0036] The procedure for LTM is as follows below with the steps of FIG. 3: 1. The UE sends a MeasurementReport message to the gNB. The gNB decides to configure LTM and initiates LTM preparation; 2. The gNB transmits an RRCReconfiguration message to the UE including the LTM candidate configurations; 3. The UE stores the LTM candidate configurations and transmits an RRCReconfigurationComplete message to the gNB; 4a.The UE performs DL synchronization with the candidate cell(s) before receiving the cell switch command; 4b.When UE-based TA measurement is configured, UE acquires the TA value(s) of the candidate cell(s) by measurement. UE performs early TA acquisition with the candidate cell(s) as requested by the network before receiving the cell switch command as specified in clause 9.2.6. This is done via CFRA triggered by a PDCCH order from the source cell, following which the UE sends preamble towards the indicated candidate cell. In order to minimize the data interruption of the source cell due to CFRA towards the candidate cell(s), the UE does not receive random access response from the network for the purposeof TA value acquisition and the TA value of the candidate cell is indicated in the cell switch command. The UE does not maintain the TA timer for the candidate cell and relies on network implementation to guarantee the TA validity; 5. The UE performs L1 measurements on the configured candidate cell(s) and transmits L1 measurement reports to the gNB. L1 measurement should be performed as long as RRC reconfiguration (step 2) is applicable; 6. The gNB decides to execute cell switch to a target cell and transmits a MAC CE triggering cell switch by including the candidate configuration index of the target cell. The UE switches to the target cell and applies the configuration indicated by candidate configuration index; 7. The UE performs the random access procedure towards the target cell, if UE does not have valid TA of the target cell as specified in clause 6.1.3.xy of TS 38.321[6]; 8. The UE completes the LTM cell switch procedure by sending RRCReconfigurationComplete message to target cell. If the UE has performed a RA procedure in step 7 the UE considers that LTM cell switch execution is successfully completed when the random access procedure is successfully completed. For RACH-less LTM, the UE considers that LTM cell switch execution is successfully completed when the UE determines that the network has successfully received its first UL data.

[0037] The steps 4-8 can be performed multiple times for subsequent LTM using the LTM candidate configuration(s) provided in step 2.

[0038] The procedure over the air interface described in Figure x is applicable to both intra-gNB-DU LTM and inter-gNB-DU LTM. The overall LTM procedures over F1-C interface are captured in TS 38.401[4].F

[0039] m-Tx / Rx operation establishment after LMT – Error! Reference source not found. illustrates the sequence of steps that a UE in m-Tx / Rx mode of operation performs during LTM handovers and establishes m-Tx / Rx mode of operation. The UE is initially receiving from TRP 1 and TRP 2 of the serving gnB (also referred to as source gnB in FIG. 4).

[0040] Based on the measurement report, the lower layer triggered mobility procedure is initiated as shown in steps 2 starting with the measurement report up to step 9 where the LTM procedure is completed post the random access.

[0041] FIG. 4 shows Signalling procedure for legacy way of m-Tx / Rx establishment after LTM procedure including operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention.

[0042] Steps 3 to steps 9 of FIG. 4 covers the legacy LTM procedure.

[0043] Novel aspect in accordance with example embodiments of the invention are shown by underlined text in steps 10.1-11.2 in FIG. 4, steps 10:1 to 11:2 are the necessary overhead signalling exchange to establish m-Tx / Rx operation after the UE is handed over to the target TRP via the LTM procedure. Detailed description to establish m-Tx / Rx operation post LTM procedure is as: 1- Step 10:1 – TargetTRP1(Now serving node) provides CSI-MeasConfig to UE in rrcReconfiguration message. UE acknowledges the acceptance of CSI-MeasConfig in step 10:2 using rrcReconfigurationComplete message; 2- UE then performs GBBR measurement on CSI-RS provided in CSI-MeasConfig and reports the beams it can receive simultaneously to gnBvia the CSI report in step 11; 3- The gnB then assigns TCI states based on the CSI report sent by the UE and the m-TRP mode of operation starts in the TRPs the UE has been handed over to; 4- Step 11, 11:1 and step 11:2 is the illustration of m-Tx / Rx mode of operation.

[0044] Example embodiments of the invention propose novel ideas to eliminate the singling overhead to establish m-Tx / Rx operation after the LTM procedure.

[0045] IR proposes novel idea to eliminate the singling overhead to establish m- Tx / Rx operation after the LTM procedure.

[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 4 and explained in Section-3: m-Tx / Rx operation to UE (step(

[0048] FIG. 5 shows a UE is engaged in m-Tx / Rx operation with source node in accordance with example embodiments of the invention.

[0049] Here, as shown in FIG. 5 a UE is engaged in m-Tx / Rx operation with source node, transferred to target node using LTM procedure. Later based on UEs capabilities and NW initiation and the GBBR reporting configuration, subsequently m-Tx / Rx operation in Target node is enabled. As shown in FIG. 5 steps 10.1, 10.2, 11, 1.1 and 11.2 are the signalling messages in accordance with example embodiments of the invention that are exchanged between the network and the UE to establish m-Tx / Rx operation.

[0050] This signalling messages and time required to reconfigure the UE for m-TRP after the LTM procedure, is a disruption in the m-Tx / Rx mode of operation.

[0051] This means that every time a UE which is in m-TRP mode of operation undergoes a lower layer triggered mobility, the following sequence of events take place: • UE falls back to s-TRP, • UE will be reconfigured for m-TRP once the LTM is complete, • UE will send a CSI report about the multiple TRPs it can receive from in the cell it has moved to, • Based on CSI report network will start the m-TRP mode of operation.

[0052] This is a significant signalling overhead as well as a considerable break in the m- TRP mode of operation which makes the feature infeasible for cases where the UE is constantly on the move.

[0053] A problem is how to reduce this signalling overhead and have minimal disruption time for m-TRP operation when the UE experiences lower layer triggered mobility.

[0054] The problem can be due to a UE engaged in m-Tx / Rx operation with source node, transferred to target node using LTM procedure. Later based on UEs capabilities and NW initiation, the GBBR reporting configuration and subsequently m-Tx / Rx operation in Target node is enabled.

[0055] In example embodiments of the invention there is proposed novel methods including where the signalling overhead involved in activation of m-TRP operation post lower layer triggered mobility is significantly reduced. As a result of this the interruption in m-TRP operation due to LTM is also reduced.

[0056] Example embodiments of the invention propose a method of m-Tx / Rx enabled LTM procedure so that UE and NW can be benefited with m-Tx / Rx trans reception immediately after the LTM based HO.

[0057] Before describing the example embodiments as disclosed herein in detail, reference is made to FIG. 7 for illustrating a simplified block diagram of various electronic devices that are suitable for use in practicing the example embodiments of this invention.

[0058] FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting exemplary system in which the example embodiments may be practiced. In FIG. 7, a user equipment (UE) 10 is in wireless communication with a wireless network 1 or network, 1 as in FIG. 7. The wireless network 1 or network 1 as in FIG. 7 can comprise a communication network such as a mobile network e.g., the mobile network 1 or first mobile network as disclosed herein. Any reference herein to a wireless network 1 as in FIG. 7 can be seen as a reference to any wireless network as disclosed herein. Further, the wireless network 1 as in FIG. 7 can also comprises hardwired features as may be required by a communication network. A UE is a wireless, typically mobile device that can access a wireless network. The UE, for example, may be a mobile phone (or called a "cellular" phone) and / or a computer with a mobile terminal function. For example, the UE or mobile terminal may also be a portable, pocket, handheld, computer-embedded or vehicle- mounted mobile device and performs a language signaling and / or data exchange with the RAN.

[0059] The UE 10 includes one or more processors DP 10A, one or more memories MEM 10B, and one or more transceivers TRANS 10D interconnected through one or more buses. Each of the one or more transceivers TRANS 10D includes a receiver and a transmitter. The one or more buses may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, and the like. The one or more transceivers TRANS 10D which can be optionally connected to one or more antennas for communication to NN 12 and NN 13, respectively. The one or more memories MEM 10B include computer program code PROG 10C. The UE 10 communicates with NN 12 and / or NN 13 via a wireless link 11 or 16.

[0060] The NN 12 (NR / 5G / 6G Node B, an evolved NB, or LTE device) is a network node such as a master or secondary node base station (e.g., for NR or LTE long term evolution) that communicates with devices such as NN 13 and UE 10 of FIG. 7. The NN 12 provides access to wireless devices such as the UE 10 to the wireless network 1. The NN 12 includes one or more processors DP 12A, one or more memories MEM 12B, and one or more transceivers TRANS 12D interconnected through one or more buses. In accordance with the example embodiments these TRANS 12D can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. Each of the one or more transceivers TRANS 12D includes a receiver and a transmitter. The one or more transceivers TRANS 12D can be optionally connected to one or more antennas for communication over at least link 11 with the UE 10. The one or more memories MEM 12B and the computer program code PROG 12C are configured to cause, with the one or more processors DP 12A, the NN 12 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. The NN 12 may communicate with another gNB or eNB, or a device such as the NN 13 such as via link 16 or link 18. Further, the link 11, link 16 and / or any other link may be wired or wireless or both and may implement, e.g., an X2 or Xn interface. Further the link 11 and / or link 16 and / or link 18 may be through other network devices such as, but not limited to an NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 device as in FIG. 7. The NN 12 may perform functionalities of an MME (Mobility Management Entity) or SGW (Serving Gateway), such as a User Plane Functionality, and / or an Access Management functionality for LTE and similar functionality for 5G or 6G.

[0061] The NN 13 can be for WiFi or Bluetooth or other wireless device associated with a mobility function device such as an AMF or SMF, further the NN 13 may comprise a NR / 5G / 6G Node B or possibly an evolved NB a base station such as a master or secondary node base station (e.g., for NR or LTE long term evolution) that communicates with devices such as the NN 12 and / or UE 10 and / or the wireless network 1. The NN 13 includes one or more processors DP 13A, one or more memories MEM 13B, one or more network interfaces, and one or more transceivers TRANS 13D interconnected through one or more buses. In accordance with the example embodiments these network interfaces of NN 13 can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. Each of the one or more transceiversTRANS 13D includes a receiver and a transmitter that can optionally be connected to one or more antennas. The one or more memories MEM 13B include computer program code PROG 13C. For instance, the one or more memories MEM 13B and the computer program code PROG 13C are configured to cause, with the one or more processors DP 13A, the NN 13 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. The NN 13 may communicate with another mobility function device and / or eNB such as the NN 12 and the UE 10 or any other device using, e.g., link 11 or link 16 or link 18 or another link. The link 16 or link 18 as shown in FIG. 7 can be used for communication with the NN12. These links maybe wired or wireless or both and may implement, e.g., an X2 or Xn interface. Further, as stated above the link 11 and / or link 16 and / or link 18 may be through other network devices such as, but not limited to an NCE / MME / SGW device such as the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 of FIG. 7.

[0062] The one or more buses of the device of FIG. 7 may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, wireless channels, and the like. For example, the one or more transceivers TRANS 12D, TRANS 13D and / or TRANS 10D may be implemented as a remote radio head (RRH), with the other elements of the NN 12 being physically in a different location from the RRH, and these devices can include one or more buses that could be implemented in part as fiber optic cable to connect the other elements of the NN 12 to a RRH.

[0063] It is noted that although FIG. 7 shows a network nodes such as NN 12 and NN 13, any of these nodes may can incorporate or be incorporated into an eNodeB or eNB or gNB such as for LTE and NR, and would still be configurable to perform example embodiments.

[0064] Also it is noted that description herein indicates that “cells” perform functions, but it should be clear that the gNB that forms the cell and / or a user equipment and / or mobility management function device that will perform the functions. In addition, the cell makes up part of a gNB, and there can be multiple cells per gNB.

[0065] The wireless network 1 or any network it can represent may or may not include a NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 that may include (NCE) network control element functionality, MME (Mobility Management Entity) / SGW (Serving Gateway) functionality, and / or serving gateway (SGW), and / or MME (Mobility Management Entity) and / or SGW (Serving Gateway) functionality, and / or user data management functionality (UDM), and / or PCF (Policy Control) functionality, and / or Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) functionality, and / or Session Management (SMF) functionality, and / or Location Management Function (LMF), and / or Authentication Server (AUSF) functionality and which provides connectivity with a further network, such as a telephone network and / or a data communications network (e.g., the Internet), and which is configured to perform any 5G, 6G, and / or NR operations in addition to or instead of other standard operations at the time of this application. The NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 is configurable to perform operations in accordance with example embodiments in any of an LTE, NR, 5G, 6G, and / or any standards based communication technologies being performed or discussed at the time of this application. In addition, it is noted that the operations in accordance with example embodiments, as performed by the NN 12 and / or NN 13, may also be performed at the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14.

[0066] The NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 includes one or more processors DP 14A, one or more memories MEM 14B, and one or more network interfaces (N / W I / F(s)), interconnected through one or more buses coupled with the link 13 and / or link 16 and / or link 18. In accordance with the example embodiments these network interfaces can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. The one or more memories MEM 14B include computer program code PROG 14C. The one or more memories MEM14B and the computer program code PROG 14C are configured to, with the one or more processors DP 14A, cause the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 to perform one or more operations which may be needed to support the operations in accordance with the example embodiments.

[0067] It is noted that that the NN 12 and / or NN 13 and / or UE 10 can be configured (e.g. based on standards implementations etc.) to perform functionality of a Location ManagementFunction (LMF). The LMF functionality may be embodied in any of these network devices or other devices associated with these devices. In addition, an LMF such as the LMF of the MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 of FIG. 7, as at least described below, can be co- located with UE 10 such as to be separate from the NN 12 and / or NN 13 of FIG. 7 for performing operations in accordance with example embodiments as disclosed herein.

[0068] The wireless Network 1 may implement network virtualization, which is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functionality into a single, software-based administrative entity, a virtual network. Network virtualization involves platform virtualization, often combined with resource virtualization. Network virtualization is categorized as either external, combining many networks, or parts of networks, into a virtual unit, or internal, providing network-like functionality to software containers on a single system. Note that the virtualized entities that result from the network virtualization are still implemented, at some level, using hardware such as processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and / or DP14A and memories MEM 10B, MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and / or MEM 14B, and also such virtualized entities create technical effects.

[0069] The computer readable memories MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and MEM 14B may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory. The computer readable memories MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and MEM 14B may be means for performing storage functions. The processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and DP14A may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment, and may include one or more of general purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs) and processors based on a multi-core processor architecture, as non-limiting examples. The processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and DP14A may be means for performing functions, such as controlling the UE 10, NN 12, NN 13, and other functions as described herein.

[0070] In general, various embodiments of any of these devices can include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones such as smart phones, tablets, personal digital assistants (PDAs)having wireless communication capabilities, portable computers having wireless communication capabilities, image capture devices such as digital cameras having wireless communication capabilities, gaming devices having wireless communication capabilities, music storage and playback appliances having wireless communication capabilities, Internet appliances permitting wireless Internet access and browsing, tablets with wireless communication capabilities, as well as portable units or terminals that incorporate combinations of such functions.

[0071] Further, the various embodiments of any of these devices can be used with a UE vehicle, a High Altitude Platform Station, or any other such type node associated with a terrestrial network or any drone type radio or a radio in aircraft or other airborne vehicle or a vessel that travels on water such as a boat.

[0072] As similarly stated above, in example embodiments of the invention there is proposed novel methods including where the signaling overhead involved in activation of m- TRP operation post lower layer triggered mobility is significantly reduced. As a result of this the interruption in m-TRP operation due to LTM is also reduced.

[0073] Example embodiments of the invention may be done in the following way: – 1- Provide CSI based Channel measurement resource sets of the target TRPs to the UE during the LTM preparation phase..; 2- Early CSI report with GBBR as soon as the UE completes the LTM procedure. Once the4- It should be noted that the procedure may be applicable for either simultaneous or non- simultaneous mode of operation in m-TRP. Hence, this same procedure can be appliedan m- aware example embodiments of the invention (novel aspects shown with underline text in steps 3, 4, 4.1, 5.1, 7.1, 10, 10.1, and 10.2).

[0075] FIG. 6, illustrates an idea in accordance with example embodiments of the invention in a self-explanatory way.

[0076] Followings are the detailed description about the idea as shown in FIG. 6 – 1- Step 1, step 1:1 and step 1:2 depicts that UE is connected with Source TRP1 & Source TRP2 using m-Tx / Rx operation. Here initial attach procedure and establishment of m- Tx / Rx operation is done as defined in the current standard; 2- UE sends measurement report in step 2; 3- Step 3 involves m-Tx / Rx aware LTM procedure preparation: a. Step 3:1 - Serving cell (SourceTRP1) sends handover request message with legacy contents and UE capabilities such as m-Tx / Rx capabilities, s-DCI or m- DCI support etc.; 4- Step 4 is enhanced to support m-Tx / Rx aware LTM preparation. Target node (TargetTRP1) prepare legacy LTM configuration and m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belongs to different TRPs) resource set: a. Step 4:1, Target node (Target TRP1) sends handoverRequestAck message piggybacking legacy LTM configuration and -Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where eachresource belongs to different TRPs) resource set m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belong to different TRPs) resource set prepared at step 4 and provided in step 4:1 to source node (Source TRP1) and further to UE. This will eliminate the signaling overhead mentioned in(problem statement) Fig.4 step 10:1 and step 10:2; 5- Step 5:2, Serving node (Source TRP1) forwards the handoverCommand(target cell rrcReconfiguration message containing legacy LTM configuration and m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belong to different TRPs) resource set); 6- Step 5:2 to step 9 are legacy steps of LTM procedure; 7- Step 10, is the execution advantage of the idea, here point to be noted is that, compare to Fig.4 step10:1 and step10:2, UE is sending GBBR report with any signaling or configuration exchange after the LTM procedure.

[0077] In accordance with example embodiments of the invention M-Tx / Rx aware LTM preparation and configuration to UE – This involves UE’s capabilities and current m-Tx / Rx choice transmission to candidate target node in LTM preparation phase. This enables the Target node to provide GBBR reporting configuration (CSI based CMR where each resource is belonged to different TRPs) to UE along with LTM configuration.

[0078] Early GBBR report to Target node as soon as possible UE establishes the connection with Target node- Once the LTM procedure is finished successfully and UE is attached to target cell, UE can send CSI report carrying GBBR based on CSI based CMR to target node. Target node, based on GBBR report can schedule m-Tx / Rx trans reception with UE.

[0079] Example embodiments of the invention provide CSI config inside LTM config. Once the LTM procedure is finished successfully and UE is attached to target cell, UE can send CSI report carrying GBBR report based on CSI based CMR to target node. Target node, based on GBBR report can schedule m-Tx / Rx trans reception with UE.

[0080] Some novel aspects in accordance with example embodiments of the invention are mentioned in below embodiments:

[0081] Embodiments 1: m-Tx / Rx aware LTM preparation phase – Target node, based on UEs capabilities and interest shown in step 3 & 4, generates legacy LTM configuration along with m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belong to different TRPs) resource set and to provide to UE.

[0082] Embodiment 2: m-Tx / Rx aware LTM preparation phase continued; Target node transfers the LTM configuration along with m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belong to different TRPs) resource sets to Source node in TargetToSourceTransparentContainer: Step 3:1 and step 4:1 of FIG. 6. – 1- handoverRequest and HandoverRequestAck in Xn based HO resembles, 2- handOverRequired and HandoverCommand in Ng based HO respectively.

[0083] If the handover is Ng based handover, the serving node will be communicating with target node via AMF . HandoverRequired and HandoverCommand message will carry piggyback LTM configuration along with m-Tx / Rx CMR (CSI based resource sets where each resource belongs to different TRPs).

[0084] Embodiments 3: m-Tx / Rx aware LTM execution phase: step 7:1 UE sends L1 measurement report to source node or can (optionally send) GBBR report of target cell to serving node. GBBR report is based on CSI resources which are prepared at step 4. UE shall send GBBR reports at step 10 also.

[0085] In one of the example case, UE sends GBBR report of (candidates)target cells at step 7:1, As UE is prepared to handover to target cell and would be establishing m-Tx / Rx operation, thus GBBR report of target cells will help Source node to evaluate available candidate target cells based on GBBR report(for m-Tx / Rx operation) instead of legacy l1 measurement report(legacy single trp trans-reception) of single TRP.

[0086] In another example case, UE sends GBBR report to target cell as soon as it establishes RRC connection with the target cell. Here UE sends the GBBR report without any explicit signaling to configure GBBR reporting.

[0087] In another example case, and after receiving the GBBR report of the target cell, the network (target node i.e. now serving node) can then activate the other TCI states for the other TRPs.

[0088] Early initiation of m-Tx / Rx operation will enable UE and Network to transmit / receive data faster than and subsequently reduced handover completion time.

[0089] The following changes in TS 38.331are proposed as shown in FIG. 6 (novel aspects in accordance with example embodiments of the invention are shown with underline text in steps 3, 4, 4.1, 5.1, 7.1, 10, 10.1, and 10.2)

[0090] Note – ltm-csi-MeasConfig - The IE CSI-MeasConfig is used to configure CSI-RS (reference signals) belonging to the ltm candidate cell in which CSI-MeasConfig is included, channel state information reports to be transmitted on PUCCH on the serving / ltm candidate cell in which CSI-MeasConfig is included and channel state information reports on PUSCH triggered by DCI received on the serving / ltm candidate cell respectively in which CSI-MeasConfig is included.

[0091] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B each show a method in accordance with example embodiments of the invention which may be performed by an apparatus.

[0092] FIG. 8A illustrates operations which may be performed by a device such as, but not limited to, a device such as a network device such a s target network device (e.g., the NN12 and / or NN13 as in FIG. 7). As shown in block 810 of FIG. 8A there is determining at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of user equipment in a communication network. As shown in block 820 of FIG. 8A there is based on the determining, preparing information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment. As shown in block 830 of FIG. 8A wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network. Then as shown in block 840 of FIG. 8A there is, based on the preparing, sending towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

[0093] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, wherein there is sending towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message.

[0094] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information.

[0095] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message, In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, there is, based on the communicating, receiving from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message.

[0096] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein there is communicating with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment.

[0097] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to.

[0098] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein there is receiving from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities

[0099] A non-transitory computer-readable medium (MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 7) storing program code (PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C as in FIG. 7), the program code executed by at least one processor (DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 7) to perform the operations as at least described in the paragraphs above.

[0100] In accordance with an example embodiment of the invention as described above there is an apparatus comprising: means for determining (TRANS 12D and / or TRANS 13D; MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 7) at a target network node (NN12 and / or NN13 as in FIG. 7) from a source network node (NN12 and / or NN13 as in FIG. 7), multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of user equipment (UE10 as in FIG. 7) in a communication network (network 1 as in FIG. 7); means, based on the determining, for preparing (TRANS 12D and / or TRANS 13D; MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 7) information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and means, based on the preparing, for sending (TRANS 12D and / or TRANS 13D; MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 7) towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

[0101] In the example aspect of the invention according to the paragraph above, wherein at least the means for determining, preparing, and sending comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium [MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 7] encoded with a computer program[PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C as in FIG. 7] executable by at least one processor [DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 7].

[0102] FIG. 8B illustrates operations which may be performed by a device such as, but not limited to, a device such as user equipment device (e.g., the UE 10 as in FIG. 7). As shown in step 850 of FIG. 8B there is communicating with a source network node information for the handover of the user equipment to a target network node of a communication network. As shown in block 860 of FIG. 8B wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment. As shown in block 870 of FIG. 8B wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network. Then as shown in block 880 of FIG. 8B there is, based on the information, starting a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

[0103] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network.

[0104] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein there is receiving from the target network node transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report; and starting a multi transceiver point mode of operation of operation with the target network node.

[0105] A non-transitory computer-readable medium (MEM 10B as in FIG. 3) storing program code (PROG 10C of as in FIG. 3), the program code executed by at least one processor (DP 10A as in FIG. 3) to perform the operations as at least described in the paragraphs above.

[0106] In accordance with an example embodiment of the invention as described above there is an apparatus comprising: means for communicating (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in FIG. 7) with a source network node (NN12 and / or NN13 as in FIG. 7) information for the handover of the user equipment (UE 10 as in FIG. 7) to a target network node () of a communication network (Network 1 as in FIG. 7), whereininformation comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and means, based on the information, for starting (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in FIG. 7) a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in FIG. 9A).

[0107] In the example aspect of the invention according to the paragraph above, wherein at least the means for receiving, triggering, and determining comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium [MEM 10B as in FIG. 7] encoded with a computer program [PROG 10C as in FIG. 7] executable by at least one processor [DP 10A as in FIG. 7].

[0108] Advantages in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein include at least: 1- M-Tx / Rx aware LTM will enable m-Tx / Rx operation immediately after UE finishes RACH procedure and sends GBBR report to Target (now serving) node. Here signaling overhead to configure GBBR reporting at UE is eliminated; 2- Early enabling of m-Tx / Rx operation will increase the trans- reception throughput and thus fasten the LTM procedure; 3- Example embodiments of the invention will reduce signaling to configure GBBR reporting configuration to UE after LTM procedure thus reduced LTM completion time; 4- M-Tx / Rx aware LTM will enable m-Tx / Rx operation immediately after UE finishes RACH procedure and sends GBBR report to Target (now serving) node; 5- Early enabling of m-Tx / Rx operation will fasten the LTM procedure;6- Example embodiments of the invention will reduce signaling to configure GBBR reporting configuration to UE after LTM procedure.

[0109] It is noted that computer-implemented inventions (CII) may be claimed as apparatus claims, method claims, and software claims. In some jurisdictions, such as in Europe, signal claims can also be made. In the U.S., a software claim must be claimed as a non-transitory computer program product or a non-transitory computer readable medium.

[0110] 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).

[0111] In other jurisdictions, a software claim can be claimed as a computer program, a data structure, and / or a computer readable medium.

[0112] Further, in accordance with example embodiments of the invention there is circuitry for performing operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein. This circuitry can include any type of circuitry including content coding circuitry, content decoding circuitry, processing circuitry, image generation circuitry, data analysis circuitry, etc.). Further, this circuitry can include discrete circuitry, application-specific integrated circuitry (ASIC), and / or field-programmable gate array circuitry (FPGA), etc. as well as a processor specifically configured by software to perform the respective function, or dual- core processors with software and corresponding digital signal processors, etc.). Additionally, there are provided necessary inputs to and outputs from the circuitry, the function performed by the circuitry and the interconnection (perhaps via the inputs and outputs) of the circuitry with other components that may include other circuitry in order to perform example embodiments of the invention as described herein.

[0113] In accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed in this application this application, the “circuitry” provided can include at least one or more or all of the following:(a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry); (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, such as functions or operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein); and (c) hardware circuit(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.”

[0114] In accordance with example embodiments of the invention, there is adequate circuitry for performing at least novel operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed in this application, this `circuitry` as may be used herein refers to at least the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry); and (b) to combinations of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (as applicable): (i) to a combination of processor(s) or (ii) to portions of processor(s) / 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) to circuits, such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that require software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not physically present.

[0115] 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" would also cover an implementation of merely a processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term "circuitry" would also cover, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, 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, or other network device.

[0116] In general, the various embodiments may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic or any combination thereof. For example, some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor or other computing device, although the invention is not limited thereto. While various aspects of the invention may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other pictorial representation, it is well understood that these blocks, apparatus, systems, techniques or methods described herein may be implemented in, as non-limiting examples, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0117] Embodiments of the inventions may be practiced in various components such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits is by and large a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools are available for converting a logic level design into a semiconductor circuit design ready to be etched and formed on a semiconductor substrate.

[0118] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. All of the embodiments described in thisDetailed Description are exemplary embodiments provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by the claims.

[0119] The foregoing description has provided by way of exemplary and non-limiting examples a full and informative description of the best method and apparatus presently contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. However, all such and similar modifications of the teachings of example embodiments of this invention will still fall within the scope of this invention.

[0120] It should be noted that the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, mean any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements, and may encompass the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are "connected" or "coupled" together. The coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. As employed herein two elements may be considered to be "connected" or "coupled" together by the use of one or more wires, cables and / or printed electrical connections, as well as by the use of electromagnetic energy, such as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency region, the microwave region and the optical (both visible and invisible) region, as several non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples.

[0121] Furthermore, some of the features of the preferred embodiments of this invention could be used to advantage without the corresponding use of other features. As such, the foregoing description should be considered as merely illustrative of the principles of the invention, and not in limitation thereof.

Claims

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: determine at the apparatus from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi- reception capabilities of a user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, prepare information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the preparing, send towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: send towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: communicate with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message; and based on the communicating, receive from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using aradio resource control reconfiguration complete message.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: communicate with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: receive from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities.

7. A method, comprising: determining at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of a user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, preparing information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the preparing, sending towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

8. The method of claim 7, comprising: sending towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information.

9. The method of claim 7, comprising:communicating with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message; and based on the communicating, receiving from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message.

11. The method of claim 7, comprising: communicating with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to.

12. The method of claim 7, comprising: receiving from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities.

13. 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: communicate with a source network node information for the handover of the apparatus to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the apparatus, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the information, start a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: send towards the target network node a channel state information report comprising channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: communicate with the target network node an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the acceptance from the apparatus is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the at least one memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: based on the channel state information report from the apparatus, receive from the target network node assignment of transmission control indicator states, wherein the multi transceiver point mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the apparatus has been handed over to.

18. A method, comprising: communicating with a source network node information for the handover of a user equipment to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; andbased on the information, starting a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising: sending towards the source network node a handover request acknowledgement message, wherein the handover request acknowledgement message is sent with legacy mobility trigger information.

20. The method of claim 18, comprising: communicating with the user equipment a channel state information measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message; and based on the communicating, receiving from the user equipment an acceptance of the measurement configuration in a radio resource control reconfiguration message.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the acceptance from the user equipment is using a radio resource control reconfiguration complete message.

22. The method of claim 18, comprising: communicating with the user equipment assignment of transmission control indicator states based on a channel state information report from the user equipment, wherein an m-TRP mode of operation starts in a different transceiver point that the user equipment has been handed over to.

23. The method of claim 18, comprising: receiving from the source network node a handover request message, wherein the handover request message comprises legacy contents and user equipment capabilities.

24. An apparatus, comprising: means for determining at the apparatus from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of a user equipment in a communication network;means for preparing, based on the determining, information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and means for sending, based on the preparing, towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

25. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code instructions stored therein, the computer-executable program code instructions comprising program code instructions configured to: determine at a target network node from a source network node, multi-transmission and multi-reception capabilities of a user equipment in a communication network; based on the determining, prepare information comprising a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the preparing, send towards the source network node the information for the handover of the user equipment.

26. An apparatus, comprising: means for communicating with a source network node information for the handover of the apparatus to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the apparatus, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and means for starting, based on the information, a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

27. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer- readable storage medium having computer-executable program code instructions stored therein, the computer-executable program code instructions comprising program code instructions configured to: communicate with a source network node information for the handover of a user equipment to a target network node of a communication network, wherein information comprises a mobility trigger and at least one channel state information based resource set report for a handover of the user equipment, and wherein each of the at least one channel state information based resource set report belongs to a different transceiver point in the communication network; and based on the information, start a multi transceiver point mode of operation with the target node for a handover.

Images