A network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network method for operating such device

Abstract

Disclosed is a network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, the network device comprising: a resource mapper configured for receiving a data resource allocation message and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message; wherein the resource mapper is configured for selecting a subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid depending on the data resource allocation message; wherein the resource mapper is configured for selecting a subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message; wherein the resource mapper is configured in such way that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid.

Description

[0001] 1 FH240904PEP

[0002] 09.09.2025

[0003] A network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network method for operating such device

[0004] Description

[0005] Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is a pivotal technology for future cellular networks. ISAC facilitates the amalgamation of radar sensing capabilities into mobile communication networks, utilizing shared spectral and hardware resources. However, due to the scarce spectrum, managing the limited radio resources for simultaneous communication and radar sensing operations poses significant challenges. Key issues include allocating radio resources efficiently between communication and radar sensing to meet their respective quality of service (QoS) requirements, mitigating the resource overhead imposed by high-resolution radar sensing on communication performance, and addressing resource interference or collisions in multiuser ISAC networks. To address these challenges, this invention focuses on the QoS-aware resource allocation in a multiuser ISAC network e.g., ISAC-capable vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks.

[0006] Disclosed is a network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network. The network device comprises: a resource mapper configured for receiving a data resource allocation message and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message, wherein the data resource allocation message indicates a quantity of resource elements allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message indicates a quantity of resources allocated for enhanced radar sensing; wherein the resource mapper is configured for selecting a subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time- frequency grid depending on the data resource allocation message; wherein the resource mapper is configured for selecting a subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message; wherein the resource mapper is configured in such way that the subset of resource

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[0008] 09.09.2025 elements for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid.

[0009] The invention relates to resource allocation in an ISAC system that can be implemented into a radio access network based on e.g., the LTE, 5G, or 6G networks. However, the invented approach is not restricted to only cellular-based networks, but It can also be applied to other communication network technologies such as WiLAN or Wi-Fi, LITRAN, WiMAX, UWB, MANETs, etc, provided the necessary con- ditions / assumptions are met.

[0010] Note: ISAC, ICAS, JCAS, and CommRad have identical meanings.

[0011] The ISAC resource-allocation according to the invention targets 6GR (Rel-20+) standardization, following current 3GPP planning. In fact, Rel-19 includes ISAC studies (e.g. ISAC channel modeling for sensing) as a bridge to 6GR. 3GPP SA1 / TR22.837 has already defined ISAC use cases, and RAN1 started a channelmodeling study in 2024 [1], Formal 6G RAN studies begin in Rel-20 (RAN1 / 2 / 3 / 4 from late 2025). Thus, contributions for ISAC resource allocation would be directed primarily at RAN1 (physical layer) and RAN2 (protocols / MAC / RRC) input. In summary, our proposal aligns with 3GPP Releases 19, 20, and beyond. It also involves RAN WGs that handle PHY / MAC (RAN 1 / 2) and possibly system architecture and performance (RAN 3 / 4).

[0012] The data resource allocation message and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message may be 3GPP Control Messages. The data resource allocation message contains all the information about the radio resources for communication and coarse radar sensing, whereas the enhanced sensing resource allocation message contains all the information about the radio resources for high-resolution radar sensing.

[0013] Since the data resource allocation message and enhanced sensing resource allocation message carry resource-allocation information for communication and high-res- olution radar sensing, respectively, so they would be implemented as control signaling in 3GPP. For example, in NR, resource grants are sent via Downlink Control Information (DCI) on the PDCCH [2], A Downlink DCI (formats 1_0 / 1_1 / 1_2 / 1_3) allocates PDSCH (data); and an Uplink DCI (format 0_0 / 0_1 / 0_2) grants PUSCH re-

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[0015] 09.09.2025 sources. The data resource allocation message would map to such DCI fields (e.g. number of RBs for PDSCH / PUSCH and associated reference signals). Likewise, an enhanced sensing resource allocation message could be encoded as a new or extended DCI format (or MAC Control Element) that signals additional radio resources reserved for high-resolution radar sensing.

[0016] Some synchronization may be present among the different network devices in the ISAC network, e.g.

[0017] Synchronization based on GPS / GNSS (directly or indirectly) or any other clock reference source (e.g. eNB / gNB directly or indirectly).

[0018] - Alternatively, there is one device that becomes a synchronization reference device for all other devices.

[0019] However, there are also further means for the synchronization. If the so-called monostatic approach is used, there are no actual requirements to synchronize or precisely synchronize the different network devices.

[0020] The resource elements are available in the form of a time-frequency grid, i.e. a given structure in the time and frequency domain. An example of such a grid is an OFDMA resource grid. However, the present invention is not limited to OFDM. Also, other modulation schemes, e.g. using multiple frequency shift keying (FSK) or pulse code modulation, can be used.

[0021] An ISAC sensing symbol (ISS) is a reference symbol where its structure is known to all devices. An example of an ISS is a so-called pilot, i.e. the known modulation of one so-called resource element. However, an ISS could also span multiple OFDM symbols or OFDM subcarriers, or the corresponding equivalents if other modulation schemes are used.

[0022] The proposed network device exploits sparsity in terms of resource utilization within the time-frequency grid (e.g., OFDM resource grid). In particular, the novel sparse resource allocation scheme, namely sparse random pattern yielding dynamic interleaving, reduces not only the resource overhead imposed by radar sensing over the communication operations but also minimizes the impact of the resource interference in a multiuser ISAC-capable V2X network.

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[0024] 09.09.2025

[0025] As a result, the proposed network device minimizes the disturbance of the data communications by means of the additional resource elements for enhanced radar sensing.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing in such a way that the subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing is a block of contiguous resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing in the time-frequency grid.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing follows a fully random structure of non-contiguous resource elements with non-equidistant spacing in the time-frequency grid.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the timefrequency grid without coordination with any other network device in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the timefrequency grid in such a way that it does not overlap with the subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing at the time-frequency grid.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a predefined subset of resource elements in the time-frequency grid is prevented from being selected for the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a

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[0033] 09.09.2025 predefined subset of resource elements in the time-frequency grid comprises one or more first resource elements in time, wherein the network device monitors whether the one or more first resource elements in time are used by further network devices in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the predefined subset of resource elements is prevented from being selected for the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in case that the one or more first resource elements in time are used by one of the further network devices.

[0034] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements of the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing are jittered in a time domain of the time-frequency grid.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper is configured for selecting the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements of the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing are changed in the time-frequency grid after lapse of a pre-defined time span.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the network device is configured as a base station for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the base station comprises a data resource allocator configured for producing the data resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the base station comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the base station is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0038] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the base station is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator receives an en-

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[0040] 09.09.2025 hanced sensing resource request. In short, data resource allocation message / en- hanced sensing resource allocation message would be signaled via NR control channels, primarily DCI on the PDCCH for dynamic grants. For more static or periodic sensing configuration, higher-layer RRC messages or MAC-CEs could carry data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource allocation message parameters (analogous to how RRC configures semi-persistent scheduling or reference signals).

[0041] According to some embodiments, the base station comprises a quality manager configured for determining the key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the base station comprises an analyzer configured for producing the quality reports depending on performance metrics of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the network device is configured as user equipment for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the user equipment comprises a data resource allocator configured for producing the data resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the user equipment comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the user equipment is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the user equipment is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator receives an enhanced sensing resource request. In short, data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource allocation message would be signaled via NR control

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[0047] 09.09.2025 channels, primarily DCI on the PDCCH for dynamic grants. For more static or periodic sensing configuration, higher-layer RRC messages or MAC-CEs could carry data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource allocation message parameters (analogous to how RRC configures semi-persistent scheduling or reference signals).

[0048] According to some embodiments, the user equipment comprises a quality manager configured for determining the key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the user equipment comprises an analyzer configured for producing the quality reports depending on performance metrics of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the network device is configured for transmitting the subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing and the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing to a further network device in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the network device comprises a data resource allocator configured for producing the data resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the network device comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing.

[0052] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the network device is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator of the network device is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator receives an enhanced sensing resource request.

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[0056] According to some embodiments, the network device comprises a quality manager configured for determining the key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the network device comprises an analyzer configured for producing the quality reports depending on performance metrics of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the network device is configured for receiving the data resource allocation message and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message from a further network device in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0059] The invention can be implemented in 5G NR, such as

[0060] • PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel): Carries downlink scheduling grants in the form of DCI (for PDSCH) and uplink grants (for PLISCH). data resource allocation message would fit into such DCI; enhanced sensing resource allocation message could be a new DCI or appended field indicating extra sensing resources.

[0061] • MAC Control Element (MAC-CE): NR defines MAC-CEs (e.g. for activation / de- activation) that traverse between base station and user equipment at MAC layer. One could define a new MAC-CE (e.g. “Enhanced Sensing Config”) if additional control messaging is needed beyond DCI.

[0062] • RRC (Radio Resource Control): RRC (3GPP TS 38.331) configures cell / user equipment 5 parameters. For example, RRC messages could carry long-term sensing policy or enable high-resolution sensing modes. The RRC would map loosely to the quality manager’s decisions. RRC provides the policy knobs: when / if / how enhanced sensing can be triggered.

[0063] • PLICCH (Physical Uplink Control Channel): The user equipment can send control reports (UCI) on PUCCH, including scheduling requests (SR) and channel quality indicator (CQI). If the user equipment needs to request enhanced sensing, it could send a special UCI (e.g. a new CQI-like indicator or SR flag). For example, an “sensing request” bit could be defined in a PUCCH format. Stan-

[0064] FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX 9 FH240904PEP 09.09.2025 dard PLICCH formats already carry SR and CQI [4], so these channels can be reused or extended.

[0065] In essence, data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource alloca- tion message may use existing 3GPP mechanisms: downlink grants on PDCCH, uplink control on PLICCH, and new RRC / MAC signaling as needed. Table 1 below shows how known 3GPP channels carry scheduling info:

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[0068] In a further aspect, a system for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network is disclosed. The system comprises a network device as described herein, and a further network device configured for transmitting the data resource allocation message and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message to the network device .

[0069] In a further aspect, a method for operating a network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network is disclosed. The method comprises the steps: using a resource mapper for receiving a data resource allocation message and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message, wherein the data resource allocation message indicates a quantity of resource elements allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message indicates a quantity of resources allocated for enhanced radar sensing; using the resource mapper for selecting a subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid depending on the data resource allocation message; using the resource mapper for selecting a subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message so that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid.

[0070] In a further aspect, a computer program for, when running on a processor, executing the method claimed herein is disclosed.

[0071] The term processor refers to an electronic device configured for a specific task. A processor may comprise hardware or a combination of hardware and software. Different processors may share hardware components and / or software components.

[0072] Preferred embodiments of the invention are subsequently discussed with respect to the accompanying drawings, in which:

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[0075] Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of a network device according to the disclosure in a schematic view;

[0076] Figure 2 illustrates in a schematic view six exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used;

[0077] Figure 3 illustrates in a schematic view different exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used;

[0078] Figure 4 illustrates a randomly selected subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid;

[0079] Figure 5 illustrates a first subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid by a first network device and a second subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid by a second network device;

[0080] Figure 6 illustrates in a schematic view an exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used;

[0081] Figure 7 illustrates a first subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid by a first network device and a second subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid by a second network device;

[0082] Figure 8 illustrates a predefined subset of resource elements in the time-frequency grid which is prevented from being selected for the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing so that the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing is located outside of the predefined subset in the time-frequency grid;

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[0085] Figure 9 illustrates a predefined subset of resource elements in the time-frequency grid which is prevented from being selected for the subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing and which comprises one or more first resource elements in time;

[0086] Figure 10 illustrates a second embodiment of a network device according to the disclosure in a schematic view;

[0087] Figure 11 illustrates a DCI transport chain; and

[0088] Figure 12 shows a high-level view of MAC functions / operations.

[0089] Equal or equivalent elements or elements with equal or equivalent functionality are denoted in the following description by equal or equivalent reference numerals.

[0090] In the following description, a plurality of details is set forth to provide a more thorough explanation of embodiments of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form rather than in detail in order to avoid obscuring embodiments of the present invention. In addition, features of the different embodiments described hereinafter may be combined with each other, unless specifically noted otherwise.

[0091] Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of a network device 1 for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network according to the disclosure in a schematic view. The network device 1 comprises: a resource mapper 2 configured for receiving a data resource allocation message DAM and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM, wherein the data resource allocation message DAM indicates a quantity of resource elements RE allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM indicates a quantity of resource elements RE allocated for enhanced radar sensing; wherein the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting a subset SCOM of re-

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[0093] 09.09.2025 source elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid TFG depending on the data resource allocation message DAM; wherein the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting a subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid depending TFG on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM; wherein the resource mapper 2 is configured in such a way that the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0094] In a further aspect, Figure 1 illustrates a method for operating a network device 1 for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network. The method comprising the steps: using a resource mapper 2 for receiving a data resource allocation message DAM and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM, wherein the data resource allocation message DAM indicates a quantity of resource elements RE allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM indicates a quantity of resource elements RE allocated for enhanced radar sensing; using the resource mapper 2 for selecting a subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid TFG depending on the data resource allocation message DAM; using the resource mapper 2 for selecting a subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid TFG depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM so that the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the timefrequency grid TFG.

[0095] In a further aspect, Figure 10 illustrates a computer program for, when running on a processor, executing the method according as claimed herein.

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[0098] Figure 2 illustrates in a schematic view six exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used. Figure 2 represents six different use cases or scenarios of radar sensing in an ISAC system involving a base station 3 (e.g., eNB / gNB), a user equipment 5 (e.g., UE-ve- hicle), and a target 4 (sensing object), e.g., a target vehicle).

[0099] Scenario 1 : Mono-static sensing with base station 3 (downlink): The base station 3 acts as both the transmitter and the receiver. The base station 3 sends a signal, which is reflected back from the target 4, and the base station 3 receives the reflected signal.

[0100] In scenario 1 , which is a downlink scenario, the base station 3 transmits data (to user equipment 5) and simultaneously uses reflections for monostatic sensing (the base station 3 both transmits and receives the echo as shown in Scenario 1 in the IPR). The resource allocation message (data resource allocation message / en- hanced sensing resource allocation message) is issued by the base station 3 as DL grants via DCI, and the user equipment 5 simply receives data. In this case, DRA / ESRA operate at the base station 3: the base station 3 MAC schedules its own PDSCH plus additional sensing signals / pilots (e.g. PRS or DMRS or PDSCH) using data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource allocation message fields. Similar operations would be performed in other downlink scenarios (e.g., Scenarios 2 and 3).

[0101] Scenario 2: Bi-static sensing with two base stations 3 (downlink): One base station 3.1 acts as the transmitter, sending a signal towards the target 4, and another base station 3.2 acts as the receiver, receiving the signal reflected from the target 4.

[0102] Scenario 3: Bi-static sensing with base station 3 and user equipment 5 (downlink): The base station 3 acts as the transmitter, sending a signal towards the target 4, and the user equipment 5 acts as the receiver, receiving the signal reflected from the target 4.

[0103] Scenario 4: Mono-static sensing with user equipment 5 (uplink and / or sidelink): The user equipment 5 acts as both the transmitter and the receiver. The user equipment 5 sends a signal, which is reflected back from the target 4, and the user equipment 5 receives the reflected signal.

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[0106] Scenario 5: Bi-static sensing with two user equipment 5 (sidelink): One user equipment 5.1 acts as the transmitter, sending a signal towards the target 4, and another user equipment 5.2 acts as the receiver, receiving the signal reflected from the target 4.

[0107] Scenario 6: Bi-static sensing with user equipment 5 and base station 3 (uplink): The user equipment 5 acts as the transmitter, sending a signal towards the target 4, and the base station 3 acts as the receiver, receiving the signal reflected from the target 4.

[0108] In scenario 6, which is an uplink scenario, the user equipment 5 transmits data (PLISCH) and the base station 3 uses the received signal for sensing (bistatic with user equipment 5 as transmitter as shown in Scenario 6 in the IPR). The base station 3 schedules the user equipment 5 via uplink grants (DOI format 0), here data resource allocation message includes the user equipment’s 5 PLISCH allocation. The base station’s 3 MAC also decides if extra signals from the user equipment 5 are needed for high-resolution sensing (e.g. instructing the user equipment 5 to send specific waveforms or more pilots). Similar operations would be performed in other uplink scenarios (Scenarios 4 and 5).

[0109] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic view of different exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used.

[0110] The scenarios of Figure 2 illustrate different configurations for radar sensing in an ISAC network, using various combinations of base stations 3 and user equipment 5 as transmitters and receivers. The scenario can also be extended to more complex ISAC networks e.g., multi-static ISAC setup, where multiple base stations 3.1 , 3.2 and multiple user equipment 5.1 , 5.2 simultaneously act as transmitters and receivers as shown in Figure 3. This complexity increases the coverage area and improves the robustness and accuracy of the sensing performance by leveraging the data fusion techniques which enhance the ISAC capabilities beyond mere data transmission to include environmental sensing and object detection.

[0111] Figure 4 illustrates a time-frequency grid TFG which comprises resource elements RE.

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[0114] In state-of-the-art ISAC systems, either contiguous resources or non-contiguous resources with equidistant spacing in the time-frequency grid are used to perform radar sensing. In contiguous resource allocation, continuous blocks of time and frequency resources (e.g., physical resource blocks and slots / frames) are assigned to a single device. However, such a resource allocation method is inefficient in terms of resource utilization especially when the devices have distinct bandwidth and data latency requirements. Moreover, continuous resource blocks are more susceptible to resource collisions and mutual interference in a multi-static or multiuser dynamic ISAC network. Furthermore, it presents a significant resource overhead from the enhanced radar sensing on the communication performance.

[0115] To overcome these challenges, a non-contiguous with equidistant spacing-based resource allocation is employed in which each device is assigned time and frequency resources that are spaced at regular intervals (equidistantly) in the time- frequency resource grid. Moreover, all devices in the network must coordinate with one another to select non-overlapping time-frequency interleaved resource patterns. However, in a highly dynamic ISAC environment e.g., a V2X highway scenario where the channel conditions vary rapidly, a coordination-based resource allocation is not useful because it increases complexity and signaling overhead as the number of devices e.g., vehicles and / or road-side units (RSUs) in the network increases. Moreover, it also introduces delay or latency, especially for time sensitive V2X applications.

[0116] To address these issues, the inventive approach employs an efficient resource selection or mapping scheme suitable for a dynamic multiuser or multi-static ISAC network.

[0117] Each network device 1 uses a subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing that are randomly (or pseudo-randomly) distributed in the time-frequency grid TFG. In the time domain, some resources may be also left out so that there are pauses between the different resource elements RE of the subset SERS of one transmitting network device 1 as shown in Figure 4.

[0118] Each network device 1 may independently select its subset SERS for radar sensing without any coordination with other network devices.

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[0121] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing in such a way that the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing is a block of contiguous resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing in the time-frequency grid TFG. The resource elements RE of the block of contiguous resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing are shown in grey.

[0122] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset SERS of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing follows a random structure of non-contiguous resource elements RE with non-equidistant spacing in the time-frequency grid TFG. The resource elements RE of the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing are shown in black.

[0123] All other resource elements RE shown in white are not used by the network device 1 so that they may be used by other network devices without causing interferences.

[0124] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the time-frequency grid TFG without coordination with any other network device in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0125] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the time-frequency grid TFG in such a way that it does not overlap with the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing at the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0126] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements RE of the subset SERS of resource ele-

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[0128] 09.09.2025 merits RE for enhanced radar sensing are jittered in a time domain of the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0129] In such embodiments, the positions of the resource elements RE in the time domain can be jittered by well-known functions in the time domain. Therefore, the transmit signals of one network device 1 will never fully overlap with the transmit signals of other network devices 1 , as there is no requirement to support full-duplex for the detection of all other network devices 1 . If two network devices 1 would always transmit identical symbols, they could never detect each other.

[0130] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements RE of the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing are changed in the time-frequency grid TFG after lapse of a pre-defined time span.

[0131] In such embodiments, the subset SERS could also be changed every few milliseconds so that resource collisions only lead to limited loss of precision. Short collisions may be also concealed by means of advanced signal processing, e.g. compressive sensing.

[0132] In very dense scenarios, congestion control mechanisms may also be used to reduce the density of the subset SERS to ensure the operation of the overall sensing for the different network devices 1.

[0133] In the ISAC time frequency grid TFG, also a subset SCOM for data communication will be present. The overall aim is to minimize the disturbance of the data communications by means of the additional resource elements RE.

[0134] Figure 5 illustrates a first subset SERS1 of resource elements RE1 for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid TFG by a first network device 1 and a second subset SERS2 of resource elements RE2 for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time- frequency grid TFG by a second network device 1. In case that a resource element RE1 from the first subset SERS1 overlaps with a resource element RE2 from the second subset SERS 2, a collided resource element REC is created.

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[0137] In the case of a multiuser or multi-static ISAC scenario, this random uncoordinated selection of the subset SERS is possible that such collided resource elements REC are created. However, if a number of collided resource element REC is small compared to a number of un-collided resource elements RE1 from the first subset SERS1 and to a number of un-collided resource elements RE2 from the second subset SERS 2, overlapping can be tolerated.

[0138] In this case, the collisions may be simply ignored. This may lead to a degradation of the estimation quality which may be acceptable in some scenarios with low collisions.

[0139] On resource overlapping, the interfered or collided resource elements REC can be removed before further processing. The removal of collided resource elements REC makes the time- frequency grid unstructured. The unstructured time-frequency grid TFG with collided resource elements REC is shown in Figure 5. Such a sparse and unstructured subsets SERS1 and SERS 2 degrade the channel estimation performance (e.g., deteriorated target detection, fragmented channel measurements, etc.). To overcome this issue, the actual channel characteristics may be recovered by utilizing advanced signal processing algorithms (e.g., compressed sensing and / or low-rank matrix recovery algorithms).

[0140] In another embodiment, the collided resource elements REC can be detected (or are known by other means) and are e.g., excluded from the channel calculation or they are treated in a specific way.

[0141] If there is a collision between different network devices 1 (e.g., due to hidden node problems), a third network device 1 could signal the collision so that at least one of the colliding network devices 1 uses a different ISS pattern or offset for the subset SERS.

[0142] Figure 6 illustrates in a schematic view an exemplary scenarios of wireless integrated radar sensing and communication in which the disclosure may be used.

[0143] In such a scenario, embodiments may leverage the movement patterns of moving devices e.g., vehicles to dynamically choose between coordinated and uncoordi-

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[0145] 09.09.2025 nated resource mapping methods. This happens due to the diverse movement patterns of vehicles, where some travel in tightly-knit clusters or platoons while others move independently as shown in the Figure 6.

[0146] Coordinated resource mapping is applied to vehicles moving in clusters or platoons, as they maintain similar speeds and close proximity, making coordination feasible and beneficial. In such a scheme, one user equipment 5 is designated as a cluster head which uses a random subset SERS in the time-frequency grid TFG. In clusters or platoons, all moving user equipment 5 e.g., vehicles, in coordination with one another, will use a similar time-frequency interleaved subset SERS as of cluster head, but with a unique offset or shift in the time (i.e., OFDM symbol) and / or frequency (i.e. , subcarrier) domain to avoid resource overlapping or interference among themselves. Usually, a cluster head is responsible for managing the time-frequency offsets of its cluster members.

[0147] Figure 7 illustrates a first subset SERS1 of resource elements RE1 for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time-frequency grid TFG by a first network device 1 and a second subset SERS2 of resource elements RE2 for enhanced radar sensing randomly selected from the time- frequency grid TFG by a second network device 1.

[0148] A representation of a multiuser resource selection is shown in the following figure where a second network device 1 uses the same pattern for the second subset SERE2 as the first network device 1 for the first subset SERS1 but with an offset of one and two in the time and frequency domain respectively.

[0149] In an alternative approach, there could also be a shift in the frequency axis between different time resources to improve the sampling of the channel.

[0150] In an optimal implementation, the offset in time and frequency is well-known to the other network devices 1 in the cluster, e.g., by means of tables or signaling, alternatively, other network devices 1 can detect the used pattern and select unused ones.

[0151] Figure 8 illustrates a predefined subset PDS of resource elements RE in the timefrequency grid TFG which is prevented from being selected for the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing so that the subset SERS of re-

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[0153] 09.09.2025 source elements RE for enhanced radar sensing is located outside of the predefined subset PDS in the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0154] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a predefined subset PDS of resource elements RE in the time-frequency grid TFG is prevented from being selected for the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing.

[0155] The resource elements RE of the predefined subset PDS are tiled and may be used by the network device 1 for the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing without causing interference. The resource elements RE of the predefined subset PDS may also be used by a further network device without causing interference.

[0156] Figure 9 illustrates a predefined subset PDS of resource elements RE in the timefrequency grid TFG which is prevented from being selected for the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing and which comprises one or more first resource elements FRE in time.

[0157] According to some embodiments, the resource mapper 2 is configured for selecting the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a predefined subset PDS of resource elements RE in the time-frequency grid TFG comprises one or more first resource elements FRE in time, wherein the network device 1 monitors whether the one or more first resource elements FRE in time are used by further network devices in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the predefined subset PDS of resource elements RE is prevented from being selected for the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing in case that the one or more first resource elements FRE in time are used by one of the further network devices.

[0158] The first resource elements FRE in time are shown in grey. In case that the one or more first resource elements FRE in time are not used by further network devices in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, the resource elements RE of the predefined subset PDS may be used by the network device 1 for the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar

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[0160] 09.09.2025 sensing without causing interference, or the resource elements RE of the predefined subset PDS may be used by a further network device without causing interference.

[0161] In some of such embodiments, the first resource elements FRE of a data resource block are never used in the subset SERS for enhanced sensing. Hence, the network devices 1 that want to send enhanced sensing data listen to if there is any communication data. If communication data is detected, the following resource elements RE in the predefined subset PDS are excluded from pilots used for sensing applications as shown in the Figure 9.

[0162] Figure 10 illustrates a second embodiment of a network device 1 according to the disclosure in a schematic view. The network device 1 may be a base station 3 or a user equipment 5.

[0163] Figure 10 illustrates the workflow of the resource allocation in an ISAC network wherein one or multiple network devices 1 (e.g., multiple base stations 3 and / or multiple user equipment 5) perform joint communication and radar sensing in a centralized and / or distributed manner. In this method, the ISAC system acts as an apparatus installed at either the base station 3 (e.g., eNB / gNB) and / or at the user equipment 5.

[0164] The diagram outlines the various functions involved in resource allocation and data exchange within the ISAC network or system. The key functions include the quality manager 8, the data resource allocator 6, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7, the resource mapper 2 and the analyzer 9.

[0165] Communication payload data (defined by the subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing) can be used to improve the quality of the sensing. For this purpose, the payload data can be decoded in the network device 1 to estimate the transmitted communication data on the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0166] The known transmit data can then be used in a similar way as the enhanced sensing data.

[0167] The present invention can be used in a mono-static, bi-static, or multi-static setup. In the multi-static case, if one network device 1 receives the resource elements of

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[0169] 09.09.2025 other network devices 1 , it will typically try to sense the channel to all of the other network devices 1 separately.

[0170] Mono-static ISAC setup:

[0171] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 is configured as a base station 3 for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the base station 3 comprises a data resource allocator 6 configured for producing the data resource allocation message DAM depending on key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the base station 3 comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing.

[0172] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 of the base station 3 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0173] In such embodiments, different network devices 1 can also have different densities for the resource elements RE of the subset SERS. The density of each network device 1 could be selected according to channel requirements, e.g., maximum speed and maximum sensing range, or also by information obtained from other network devices 1. The required density can then be adapted to the requirements and to minimize the use of spectral resources. In a different embodiment, the density could be reduced by multiples of two (either in the time or frequency domain or both). The unused resource elements RE could then be used by other network devices 1 , also not requiring the full resources.

[0174] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 of the base station 3 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation EAM message only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 receives an enhanced sensing resource request ESRR.

[0175] No existing 3GPP signal is defined specifically as “sensing request,” so one would treat it as a novel UCI or RRC IE (information element). For example, one could re-

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[0177] 09.09.2025 use the PLICCH scheduling request (SR) mechanism by defining a dedicated SR bit or buffer status report (BSR) for sensing needs.

[0178] According to some embodiments, the base station 3 comprises a quality manager 8 configured for determining the key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports QREP.

[0179] Potential sensing KPIs include range / velocity resolution, range / velocity accuracy, detection probability (confidence level), max. Sensing service latency, false-alarm rate, missed detection, and update rate (refreshing rate). These can be exchanged between nodes similarly to CQI. For example, the ser equipment 5 could send a “Sensing Quality Indicator (SQI)” over UCI to report echo SNR or estimation error. The network’s QoS Manager would use this to adjust resource allocation.

[0180] According to some embodiments, the base station 3 comprises an analyzer 9 configured for producing the quality reports QREP depending on performance metrics PMET of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0181] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 is configured as user equipment 5 for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the user equipment 5 comprises a data resource allocator 6 configured for producing the data resource allocation message DAM depending on key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the user equipment 5 comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing.

[0182] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 of the user equipment 5 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0183] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 of the user equipment 5 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource alloca-

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[0185] 09.09.2025 tion message EAM only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 receives an enhanced sensing resource request ESRR.

[0186] According to some embodiments, the user equipment 5 comprises a quality manager 8 configured for determining the key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports QREP.

[0187] According to some embodiments, the user equipment 5 comprises an analyzer 9 configured for producing the quality reports QREP depending on performance metrics PMET of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0188] In the embodiment of Figure 10, the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing and the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing are forwarded to a transmitter 10 of the network device 1 , which transmits a wireless radio signal RSIG using the resource elements RE specified by the subset SCOM and the subset SERS. A receiver 11 of the network device 1 receives the reflected radio signal RSIG and / or radio signals from other network devices. The receiver 11 extracts performance metrics PMET from the reflected radio signal RSIG and / or radio signals from other network devices and forwards the performance metrics PMET to the analyzer 9.

[0189] Scenario 1 and scenario 4 in Figure 2 represent mono-static ISAC setups. In a mono-static ISAC setup, all components or functional blocks in Fig. 10 are typically located within a single network device 1 e.g., either at the base station 3 or at the user equipment 5.

[0190] The workflow starts with quality manager 8, which manages the key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing as well as the key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing. The key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing include, for example, data rate, reliability (packet reception ratio), latency (inter-packet delay), etc., whereas the key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing include, for example, target detection probability, target parameter (range / velocity) estimation accuracy, sensing (range / velocity) resolution, etc.

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[0192] 09.09.2025

[0193] Using these key performance indicators KPIC, the data resource allocator 6 allocates the necessary resources for the tasks by sending a data resource allocation message DAM to the resource mapper 2. If the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 of the network device 1 (e.g., the base station 3 or the user equipment 5) receives an enhanced sensing resource request ESRR, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 allocates additional time-frequency resources to meet the enhanced radar sensing requirements by sending an enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM to the resource mapper 2. The term enhanced radar sensing means high-resolution target detection and tracking. If no enhanced sensing resource request ESRR exists, only the resources allocated as a result of the data resource allocation message DAM proceed to the resource mapper 2.

[0194] The resource mapper 2 maps the allocated resources (e.g., subcarriers and OFDM symbols) to a time-frequency grid TFG (e.g., OFDM resource grid) using the random resource selection procedure as described herein. After the resource mapping, the network device 1 (e.g., base station 3 or user equipment 5) performs communication and radar sensing using the allocated resource elements mapped onto the time-frequency grid TFG.

[0195] The performance of the communication and sensing activities is subsequently evaluated by the analyzer 9, which is also located within the respective network device 1 . The analyzer 9 generates a quality report QREP based on the performance metrics PMET. The quality report QREP is based, for example, on the channel quality indicator, packet error rate, throughput, target detection probability, or false alarm rate (e.g., target detection confidence level), and range-velocity estimation accuracy.

[0196] This quality report QREP is sent to the quality manager 8 in a feedback loop to optimize resource allocation and ensure efficient operation.

[0197] Centralized Bi-static / multi-static ISAC setup:

[0198] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 is configured for transmitting the subset SCOM of resource elements RE for communication and coarse radar sensing and the subset SERS of resource elements RE for enhanced radar sensing to a further network device 1 in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

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[0200] 09.09.2025

[0201] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 comprises a data resource allocator 6 configured for producing the data resource allocation message DAM depending on key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the network device 1 comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing.

[0202] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

[0203] According to some embodiments, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 receives an enhanced sensing resource request ESRR.

[0204] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 comprises a quality manager 8 configured for determining the key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports QREP.

[0205] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 comprises an analyzer 9 configured for producing the quality reports QREP depending on performance metrics PMET of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0206] The embodiments above, which are related to centralized bi-static / multi-static ISAC setup, differ from the network device of Figure 10 in that the subsets SCOM and SERS are not used by the transmitter 10 of the network device 1 , but are forwarded to a further network device so that a transmitter of the further network device 1 may use them for creating the radio signal RSIG.

[0207] The network device 1 may be a base station 3 or a user equipment 5. In the same way, the further network device 1 may be a base station 3 or a user equipment 5.

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[0209] 09.09.2025

[0210] According to some embodiments, the network device 1 is configured for receiving the data resource allocation message DAM and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM from a further network device 1 in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0211] The embodiment above differs from the network device 1 of Figure 10 in that it receives the data resource allocation message DAM and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message EAM from a further network device 1. Thus, it does neither have its own data resource allocator 6 nor its own enhanced sensing resource allocator 7. The network device may be a base station 3 or a user equipment 5 and the further network device 1 may be a base station.

[0212] In a centralized bi-static / multi-static ISAC setup, one network device 1 , for example the base station 3 or the user equipment 5, centrally manages resource allocation and coordination for other network devices 1 (e.g. further base stations 3 or further user equipment 5). Scenarios 2, 3, and 6 in Figure 2 are examples of such setups. The central network device 1 acts as the control hub, making decisions based on the information provided by the other network devices 1 and its own sensing capabilities. The other network devices 1 regularly inform the central network device 1 about their status, performance metrics, and resource needs. This setup ensures efficient resource management and coordination, leveraging the network device’s central position and computational capabilities.

[0213] The process begins with the quality manager 8 at the central network device 1 , which is responsible for managing the required key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the required key performance indicators KPIS for enhanced radar sensing. These key performance indicators KPIC and KPIS are exchanged between the central network device 1 and the further network devices 1 in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0214] Based on the key performance indicators KPIC, the data resource allocator 6 at the central network device 1 allocates the necessary resource elements RE in the timefrequency grid TFG (e.g., subcarriers and OFDM symbols) to one or more further network devices 1 to perform joint data transmission and radar sensing.

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[0216] 09.09.2025

[0217] If one or more further network devices require enhanced radar sensing capabilities, they send an enhanced sensing resource request ESRR to the central network device 1. Upon receiving this request, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 at the central network device allocates additional time-frequency resources to the requested one or more further network devices to meet their enhanced radar sensing requirements. If no such request exists, only the resources allocated by the data resource allocator 6 proceed to the resource mapper 2.

[0218] The resource mapper can be at the central network device 1 or a further network device 1. The resource mapper 2 maps the allocated resources (e.g., subcarriers and OFDM symbols) to a time-frequency resource grid (e.g., OFDM resource grid) using the described random scheme. After the resource mapping, the central network device 1 and / or other network devices 1 perform communication and radar sensing using the allocated time-frequency resources.

[0219] The performance of the communication and radar sensing tasks is evaluated by the analyzer 9 which may be at different network devices 1 (e.g., base stations 3 and / or user equipment 5) participating in the bi / multi-static ISAC network. The analyzer 2 generates quality report QREP that is sent back to the quality manager 8 to optimize the overall resource allocation. All further network devices 1 may provide their quality report QREP to the central network device 1 , ensuring continuous optimization and efficient resource utilization in the bi / multi-static ISAC network.

[0220] Distributed Bi-static / multi-static ISAC setup:

[0221] In a distributed bi-static / multi-static ISAC setup, the devices e.g., user equipment 5 operate autonomously without centralized control from a base station 3 or a central user equipment 5. Each user equipment independently selects its resources, manages its own performance metrics, and makes decisions regarding resource allocation. Scenario 5 in Figure 2 is an example of such a setup. This setup allows for greater flexibility and independence, particularly useful in scenarios where coverage by a central network device 1 is limited or non-existent.

[0222] The process begins with the quality manager 8 at each user equipment 5, responsible for managing the required key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse radar sensing, and the required key performance indicators KPIS for

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[0224] 09.09.2025 enhanced radar sensing. These key performance indicators KPIC and KPIS are exchanged between the multiple user equipment 5 in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

[0225] Based on the key performance indicators KPIC for data communication and coarse sensing, the data resource allocator 6 at each user equipment 5 allocates the necessary time-frequency resources (e.g., subcarriers and OFDM symbols) to perform joint data communication and coarse radar sensing.

[0226] If one or more user equipment 5 require enhanced radar sensing capabilities, they negotiate with the neighboring user equipment 5 by sending or broadcasting an enhanced sensing resource request ESSR. Upon receiving the enhanced sensing resource request ESSR, the enhanced sensing resource allocator 7 at neighboring user equipment 5 evaluate their current resource utilization and determine if they can spare some resources without significantly degrading their own communication and sensing performance. If a neighboring user equipment 5 can provide additional resources, it responds to the requesting user equipment with an offer detailing the type and amount of resources it can share, the duration for which the resources can be allocated, and any potential conditions or constraints. The requesting user equipment 5 may receive multiple offers, and selects the most suitable one based on its requirements and the terms offered by the neighboring user equipment 5. If no such request exists, only the resources allocated by the data resource allocator 6 proceed to the resource mapper 2.

[0227] The resource mapper 2 at each user equipment 5 maps the allocated resources (e.g., subcarriers and OFDM symbols) to a time-frequency grid TFG (e.g., OFDM resource grid) using the random scheme. After the resource mapping, each user equipment 5 performs communication and radar sensing using the allocated timefrequency resources.

[0228] The performance of the allocated resources for both communication and radar sensing tasks is evaluated by the analyzer 8 at each user equipment 5 participating in the bi / multi-static ISAC network. Each user equipment’s 5 analyzer 9 generates a quality report QREP which is shared with neighboring user equipment 5. The exchange of quality reports QREP among user equipment 5 helps in optimizing resource allocation dynamically. For example, if a specific user equipment 5 receives

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[0230] 09.09.2025 a quality report QREP indicating degraded performance, it can request additional resources or renegotiate current allocations with neighboring user equipment.

[0231] Each user equipment's 5 analyzer 9 provides feedback to its local resource manager 8 and resource mapper 2 to adjust resource allocation and improve performance. The analyzer 8 ensures that each user equipment 5 in a distributed ISAC setup can autonomously manage and optimize its resources, leading to a more resilient and adaptive network.

[0232] Figure 11 illustrates the DCI transport chain: the PDCCH carries the DCI payload (scheduling grants) from the base station to the user equipment [3], The data resource allocation message / enhanced sensing resource allocation message fields could be defined within this framework.

[0233] • Information Element Multiplexing: This stage involves combining different control information elements such as Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats into a single data stream for processing.

[0234] • CRC Attachment: A Cyclic Redundancy Check is added to the multiplexed information to enable error detection at the receiver's end.

[0235] • Channel Coding: The data stream with CRC is encoded to protect against potential data corruption during transmission. This typically involves error correction coding techniques like Polar code.

[0236] • Rate Matching: The encoded data is adjusted to match the allocated resource blocks. This step may involve puncturing or repeating bits to fit the data into the available transmission space.

[0237] • Scrambling: The rate-matched data is scrambled to minimize interference and ensure data security. Scrambling is performed using a sequence known to both the transmitter and receiver.

[0238] • Modulation: The scrambled data is then modulated, which means converting the bits into symbols that can be transmitted over a radio frequency channel.

[0239] • Resource Element Mapping: Finally, the modulated symbols are mapped onto specific resource elements in the frequency-time grid of the carrier signal. This step positions the control information correctly for transmission within the broader signal frame.

[0240] Figure 12 shows a high-level view of MAC functions / operations.

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[0242] 09.09.2025

[0243] The I PR’s “resource mapper” is essentially the MAC-layer scheduler known in 3GPP. In 5G NR the base station’s MAC entity takes scheduling decisions and maps logical channels to physical RBs. MAC receives data from RLC and provides services to PHY (and vice versa). The MAC expects to signal Scheduling Requests and CQI to the PHY and uses them for allocation decisions. The Resource Mapper (MAC scheduler) selects subcarriers and symbols for each user equipment’s 5 PDSCH / PUSCH.

[0244] In the ISAC extension according to the invention, the base station’s MAC would treat sensing as an additional “data” stream: it would reserve certain REs (as indicated by enhanced sensing resource allocation message) for high-resolution radar sensing. Thus, ESRA (and DRA) can be implemented as modules within the base station’s MAC scheduler. Existing standards like TS 38.321 define MAC PDU formats and CE headers; one could introduce new LCID (logical channel ID) values or MAC-CE formats to activate sensing resources.

[0245] Depending on certain implementation requirements, embodiments of the inventive device and system can be implemented in hardware and / or in software. The implementation can be performed using a digital storage medium, for example a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray Disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM or a FLASH memory, having electronically readable control signals stored thereon, which cooperate (or are capable of cooperating) with a programmable computer system such that one or more or all of the functionalities of the inventive device or system is performed.

[0246] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (for example a field programmable gate array) may be used to perform one or more or all of the functionalities of the devices and systems described herein. In some embodiments, a field programmable gate array may cooperate with a microprocessor in order to perform one or more or all of the functionalities of the devices and systems described herein.

[0247] Although some aspects have been described in the context of an apparatus, it is clear that these aspects also represent a description of the corresponding method, where a block or device corresponds to a method step or a feature of a method step. Analogously, aspects described in the context of a method step also represent

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[0249] 09.09.2025 a description of a corresponding block or item or feature of a corresponding apparatus.

[0250] Depending on certain implementation requirements, embodiments of the inventive method can be implemented using an apparatus comprising hardware and / or software. The implementation can be performed using a digital storage medium, for example a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blu-ray Disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM or a FLASH memory, having electronically readable control signals stored thereon, which cooperate (or are capable of cooperating) with a programmable computer system such that the respective method is performed.

[0251] Depending on certain implementation requirements, embodiments of the inventive method can be implemented using an apparatus comprising hardware and / or software.

[0252] Some or all of the method steps may be executed by (or using) a hardware apparatus, like a microprocessor, a programmable computer or an electronic circuit. Some one or more of the most important method steps may be executed by such an apparatus.

[0253] Some embodiments according to the invention comprise a data carrier having electronically readable control signals, which are capable of cooperating with a programmable computer system such that one of the methods described herein is performed.

[0254] Generally, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product with a program code, the program code being operative for performing one of the methods when the computer program product runs on a computer. The program code may for example be stored on a machine readable carrier.

[0255] Other embodiments comprise the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein, which is stored on a machine readable carrier or a non-transi- tory storage medium.

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[0257] A further embodiment comprises a processing means, for example a computer, or a programmable logic device, in particular a processor comprising hardware, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0258] A further embodiment comprises a computer having installed thereon the computer program for performing one of the methods described herein.

[0259] Generally, the methods are advantageously performed by any apparatus comprising hardware and or software.

[0260] While this invention has been described in terms of several embodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents which fall within the scope of this invention. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and compositions of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations, permutations and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0261] Reference signs:

[0262] 1 network device

[0263] 2 resource mapper

[0264] 3 base station

[0265] 4 target

[0266] 5 user equipment

[0267] 6 data resource allocator

[0268] 7 enhanced sensing resource allocator

[0269] 8 quality manager

[0270] 9 analyzer

[0271] 10 transmitter

[0272] 11 receiver

[0273] DAM data resource allocation message

[0274] EAM enhanced sensing resource allocation message

[0275] RE resource element

[0276] SCOM subset of resource elements for communication and coarse radar sensing

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[0278] TFG time-frequency grid

[0279] SERS a subset of resource elements for enhanced radar sensing

[0280] REC collided resource elements

[0281] PDS predefined subset of resource elements

[0282] FRE first resource element in time

[0283] KPIC key performance indicators for data communication and coarse radar sensing

[0284] KPIS key performance indicators for enhanced radar sensing

[0285] ESRR enhanced sensing resource request

[0286] PMET performance metrics of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network

[0287] QREP quality report

[0288] RSIG radio signal

[0289] Resources:

[0290] [1] 3GPP, “Study on integrated sensing and communication, release 19,” 3GPP

[0291] SA1 , Tech. Rep., 2023. [Online], Available: https: / / www.3gpp.org / ftp / Specs / ar- chive / 22_series / 22.837Z22837-j10.zip

[0292] [2] https: / / www.sharetechnote.com / html / 5G / 5G_PDCCH.html

[0293] [3] https: / / www.sharetechnote.com / html / 5G / 5G_DCI.html

[0294] [4] https: / / www.sharetechnote.com / html / Handbook_LTE_PUCCH_Format.html

[0295] [5] https: / / www.etsi.org / newsroom / press-releases / 2520-etsi-publishes-first-report- on-isac-use-cases-for-6g

[0296] FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX

Claims

36 FH240904PEP09.09.2025Claims1. A network device for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, the network device (1) comprising: a resource mapper (2) configured for receiving a data resource allocation message (DAM) and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM), wherein the data resource allocation message (DAM) indicates a quantity of resource elements (RE) allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) indicates a quantity of resource elements (RE) allocated for enhanced radar sensing; wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting a subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid (TFG) depending on the data resource allocation message (DAM); wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting a subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing from the time- frequency grid (TFG) depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM); wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured in such a way that the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid (TFG).

2. The network device according to the previous claim, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing in such a way that the subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing is a block of contiguous resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing in the time-frequency grid (TFG).

3. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset (SERS) ofFH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX37 FH240904PEP09.09.2025 resource elements for enhanced radar sensing follows a fully random structure of non-contiguous resource elements (RE) with non-equidistant spacing in the time-frequency grid (TFG).

4. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the timefrequency grid (TFG) without coordination with any other network device in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

5. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing is selected from the timefrequency grid (TFG) in such a way that it does not overlap with the subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing at the time-frequency grid (TFG).

6. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a predefined subset (PDS) of resource elements (RE) in the time-frequency grid (TFG) is prevented from being selected for the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing.

7. The network device according to one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that a predefined subset (PDS) of resource elements (RE) in the time-frequency grid (TFG) comprises one or more first resource elements (FRE) in time, wherein the network device (1) monitors whether the one or more first resource elements (FRE) in time are used by further network devices in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the predefined subset (PDS) of resource elements (RE) is prevented from being selected for the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE)FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX38 FH240904PEP09.09.2025 for enhanced radar sensing in case that the one or more first resource elements (FRE) in time are used by one of the further network devices.

8. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements (RE) of the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing are jittered in a time domain of the time-frequency grid (TFG).

9. The network device according to one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the resource mapper (2) is configured for selecting the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing in such a way that positions of the resource elements (RE) of the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing are changed in the time-frequency grid (TFG) after lapse of a predefined time span.

10. The network device according to one of the previous claims, wherein the network device (1) is configured as a base station (3) for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the base station (3) comprises a data resource allocator (6) configured for producing the data resource allocation message (DAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the base station (3) comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing.11 . The network device according to the previous claim, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

12. The network device according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation (EAM) message only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) receives an enhanced sensing resource request (ESRR).FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX39 FH240904PEP09.09.202513. The network device according to one of the claims 10 to 12, wherein the base station (3) comprises a quality manager (8) configured for determining the key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radar sensing and the key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports (QREP).

14. The network device according to one of the claims 10 to 14, wherein the base station (3) comprises an analyzer (9) configured for producing the quality reports (QREP) depending on performance metrics (PMET) of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

15. The network device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the network device (1) is configured as user equipment (5) for the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, wherein the user equipment (5) comprises a data resource allocator (6) configured for producing the data resource allocation message (DAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the user equipment (5) comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing.

16. The network device according to the previous claim, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

17. The network device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) receives an enhanced sensing resource request (ESRR).

18. The network device according to one of the claims 15 to 17, wherein the user equipment (5) comprises a quality manager (8) configured for determining the key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radarFH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX40 FH240904PEP09.09.2025 sensing and the key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports (QREP).

19. The network device according to one of the claims 15 to 18, wherein the user equipment (5) comprises an analyzer (9) configured for producing the quality reports (QREP) depending on performance metrics (PMET) of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

20. The network device according to one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the network device 1 is configured for transmitting the subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing and the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing to a further network device 1 in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

21. The network device according to the previous claim, wherein the network device (1) comprises a data resource allocator (6) configured for producing the data resource allocation message (DAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the network device (1) comprises an enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing.

22. The network device according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) depending on a required Doppler resolution and / or a required range resolution.

23. The network device according to one of the claims 20 to 22, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) is configured for producing the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) only in case that the enhanced sensing resource allocator (7) receives an enhanced sensing resource request (ESRR).

24. The network device according to one of the claims 20 to 23, wherein the network device (1) comprises a quality manager (8) configured for determining the key performance indicators (KPIC) for data communication and coarse radar sensingFH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX41 FH240904PEP09.09.2025 and the key performance indicators (KPIS) for enhanced radar sensing depending on quality reports (QREP).

25. The network device according to one of the claims 20 to 24, wherein the network device (1) comprises an analyzer (9) configured for producing the quality reports (QREP) depending on performance metrics (PMET) of the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

26. The network device according to one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the network device 1 is configured for receiving the data resource allocation message (DAM) and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) from a further network device (1) in the wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network.

27. A system for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, the system comprising: a network device 1 according to one of the previous claims, and a further network device configured for transmitting the data resource allocation message (DAM) and the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) to the network device 1 .

28. A method for operating a network device (1) for a wireless integrated radar sensing and communication network, the method comprising the steps: using a resource mapper (2) for receiving a data resource allocation message (DAM) and an enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM), wherein the data resource allocation message (DAM) indicates a quantity of resource elements (RE) allocated for communication and coarse radar sensing, wherein the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) indicates a quantity of resource elements (RE) allocated for enhanced radar sensing; using the resource mapper (2) for selecting a subset (SCOM) of resource elements (RE) for communication and coarse radar sensing from a time-frequency grid (TFG) depending on the data resource allocation message (DAM);FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCXFH240904PEP 09.09.2025 using the resource mapper (2) for selecting a subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing from the time-frequency grid (TFG) depending on the enhanced sensing resource allocation message (EAM) so that the subset (SERS) of resource elements (RE) for enhanced radar sensing is randomly distributed in the time-frequency grid (TFG).

29. A computer program for, when running on a processor, executing the method according to the preceding claim.FH250903PCT-2025292876. DOCX

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