Reduction of interference in wireless communications with ambient IoT devices

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method for use in a management node (752) of a cellular network (100). The cellular network (100) includes a plurality of radio nodes. Each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node (110) and at least one respective low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110). The method (900) comprises providing (920), to each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes, information on a respective resource allocation for use by the respective radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication. The resource allocations are based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices (120).

Description

[0001] SYP356909W001

[0002] REDUCTION OF INTERFERENCE IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS WITH AMBIENT IOT DEVICES TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Various examples of the disclosure generally relate to data transfer between a cellular network and a low-power wireless device, such as an Ambient Internet of Things wireless device. The data transfer may be through a reader such as an intermediate node where the intermediate node may be a user equipment. Various examples specifically relate to reducing interference that may occur in the communication between the low-power wireless device and the reader or intermediate node, caused by the communication of adjacent intermediate nodes in dense environments.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] To enable massive Internet of Things (loT) connectivity, a new type of loT device is under study within 3GPP. These devices aim to achieve reduced energy storage size, smaller device form factors, lower complexity, and reduced power consumption compared to existing cellular loT solutions such as Narrowband loT (NB-loT), massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC), and Reduced Capability (RedCap) devices. These devices are referred to as Ambient Internet of Things (AloT) devices. AloT devices may employ technologies such as backscattering and ultra-low-power reception using envelope detectors to support low-power circuitry. Backscattering is a technique where a device reflects an incident radio frequency (RF) signal and modulates the reflected signal to encode data. This method allows for extremely low-power communication, as the device does not generate its own RF signal but instead uses the energy of the incoming signal. However, these low-power solutions may result in a limited communication range compared to existing Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) loT solutions, which are communication systems optimized for long-range, low-power, and low-cost loT applications.

[0006] To address the limited range of AloT devices, the deployment of intermediate nodes, also referred to as readers or assisting nodes, may be considered. In the context of 3GPP's AloT, a reader refers to an entity responsible for communicating with AloT devices, often referred to as tags. Readers may provide connectivity between AloT devices and base stations (BS) by transferring Ambient loT data and / or signaling between the AloT devices and the cellular network. These intermediate nodes may be implemented to facilitate uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) communication, DL communication only, or UL communication only. The deployment of these readers may be categorized based on their implementation and functionality. For example, an AloT Radio Access Network (RAN) reader may be integrated within the RAN and deployed in a pre-planned manner by the network operator to manage communication with AloT devices within its coverage area. Alternatively, a user equipment (UE), such as a smartphone or other mobile device, may be authorized to function as an AloT reader, enabling dynamic and flexible deployment scenarios. The selection and authorization of these readers may be managed by the AloT Function, which selects appropriate readers based on factors such as location and service requirements.

[0007] Future cellular services are anticipated to require connectivity everywhere and for everything, leading to a massive increase in the number of wirelessly connected devices. AloTSYP356909W001

[0008] devices are being developed to meet these demands, offering reduced complexity and enhanced energy efficiency while maintaining compatibility with cellular network infrastructure. However, the introduction of intermediate nodes into these network topologies may result in interference challenges, particularly in scenarios where multiple readers and / or intermediate nodes are deployed in a dense configuration. The mixture of indoor and outdoor placement of such nodes may be regarded as a network implementation choice. Without appropriate interference management schemes, such deployments may result in severe interference and capacity issues.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] Accordingly, there is a need for techniques to improve interference management for wireless communication withAloT devices.

[0011] This need is met by a method for use in a management node of a cellular network and a method for use in a radio node of a plurality of radio nodes of a cellular network as defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims define embodiments.

[0012] An aspect relates to a method for use in a management node of a cellular network. The cellular network includes a plurality of radio nodes. Each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node and at least one respective low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node. The method involves providing resource allocation information to each radio node. The resource allocation is for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication. The resource allocations are determined based on the specific deployment of both the radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices they serve.

[0013] This approach offers several advantages, particularly in addressing the challenges posed by the dense deployment of various network elements such as base stations and radio nodes. The radio nodes may include and act as readers for the associated low-power wireless devices (e.g. AloT devices) to facilitate communication between the network and the low-power wireless devices. The radio nodes may also be referred to as intermediate nodes or assisting nodes. A radio node may be a user equipment. By dynamically assigning resources to each radio node according to their deployment specifics, the method may effectively mitigate potential interference issues that could arise from multiple nearby transmitters operating in a shared spectrum.

[0014] Furthermore, this resource allocation strategy enhances network efficiency by ensuring optimal use of available communication channels. It may minimize conflicts between devices sharing the same frequency bands. This leads to improved overall network capacity and performance, especially in environments where both indoor and outdoor deployments coexist.

[0015] The method's adaptability to different deployment scenarios is another significant benefit. By tailoring resource allocations based on the actual spatial distribution of radio nodes and their associated low-power wireless devices, the solution maintains consistent performance across diverse operating conditions. This flexibility is crucial for supporting the scalability needs of future cellular networks, which aim to connect a vast number of low-power wireless devices seamlessly.SYP356909W001

[0016] According to various examples, the method further involves obtaining, from each of the plurality of radio nodes, a report indicative of a number of respective low-power wireless devices in communication reach of the respective radio node. This may allow the network to gather detailed information about the distribution and density of low-power wireless devices connected to the radio nodes.

[0017] By collecting these reports, the management node gains valuable insights into how many low-power wireless devices are within the communication range of each radio node. This data can be used to optimize resource allocation decisions, ensuring that resources are distributed in a manner that reflects the actual deployment scenario. Such an approach may lead to improved load balancing across the network.

[0018] Moreover, this feature enhances interference management by providing a clearer understanding of the communication environment surrounding each radio node. By knowing the number of devices in proximity, the network can better anticipate and mitigate potential interference issues, ensuring more reliable data transmission.

[0019] The ability to dynamically adjust resource allocations based on real-time device density information also improves the scalability of the network. As the number of connected devices grows, the system can adapt by reallocating resources where they are needed most, maintaining efficient communication even in densely populated areas.

[0020] According to various examples, the method further involves providing information on respective resource allocation to each of the plurality of radio nodes upon obtaining, from each respective radio node, the report indicative of the number of respective low-power wireless devices within its communication reach. This may ensure that resource allocations are based on current and specific data regarding the operational environment of each radio node.

[0021] By allocating resources based on real-time reports from radio nodes, the network can avoid unnecessary allocations and ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed. This not only optimizes the use of available spectrum but also contributes to better interference management.

[0022] Additionally, this may support scalability in Ambient loT networks. As the number of low-power wireless devices grows, the network can dynamically adjust resource allocations based on the specific demands reported by each radio node. This adaptability ensures that the system remains efficient and reliable even in scenarios where device density varies significantly across different regions or over time.

[0023] According to various examples, the method is automatically repeated upon at least one of: determining a change in the deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and / or the low-power wireless devices; receiving a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes; or following a predefined schedule. This automatic repetition may ensure that the network remains adaptive to changing conditions, demands, or operational requirements over time.

[0024] By continuously updating resource allocations in response to deployment changes, the method adapts to shifts in the spatial distribution of radio nodes and wireless low-power devices. Such adaptability is particularly beneficial in dynamic environments where the positions or numbers of these elements may vary frequently.SYP356909W001

[0025] Additionally, the automatic repetition of the method upon receiving a request for resource allocation from a radio node allows the network to respond promptly to specific needs arising in real-time.

[0026] Furthermore, adherence to a predefined schedule ensures systematic and predictable updates of resource allocations.

[0027] According to various examples, the method further comprises providing, to each low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node, the information on the respective resource allocation to be used for the ambient wireless communication. This may ensure that not only are radio nodes informed about their resource allocations, but also that each connected wireless low-power device receives specific guidance on how to conduct its communication.

[0028] By distributing this information directly to the devices, the method enables them to operate with precise knowledge of their allocated resources. This leads to improved coordination between low-power wireless devices and radio nodes, as all entities within the network are aware of their respective communication parameters. Such alignment minimizes the risk of conflicts and ensures that resources are used efficiently.

[0029] According to various examples, the method further comprises determining, for each of the plurality of radio nodes, the respective resource allocation.

[0030] By tailoring resource allocations to individual radio nodes based on their specific requirements and deployment contexts, the method may optimize overall network performance.

[0031] According to various examples, determining the resource allocations comprises identifying a location of each of the plurality of radio nodes and / or low-power wireless devices. By incorporating spatial information into the determination process, the method gains a comprehensive understanding of the physical / spatial distribution of network elements. This enables more informed decisions regarding how resources should be allocated to minimize conflicts and interference and may enhance communication quality.

[0032] According to various examples, determining the resource allocations involves identifying at least one group of interference-limited areas and assigning each radio node to one of these areas. By defining regions based on interference, the method can strategically allocate resources in a way that minimizes signal conflicts while maximizing communication efficiency and reuse of resources.

[0033] According to various examples, each group of interference-limited areas is defined such that interference caused by radio frequency power in one area is below a predefined threshold in another area within the same group. This ensures that communication in one region does not adversely affect others, although the same resources may be used.

[0034] The advantages of this approach include enhanced interference mitigation through careful zoning. By setting clear thresholds for acceptable interference levels, the method guarantees that resource allocations are made with consideration for potential signal conflicts.

[0035] According to various examples, at least one resource allocation is reused across radio nodes assigned to different interference-limited areas within a group. By allowing the reuse of resources where interference levels are controlled and minimized, the method maximizes spectrum efficiency without compromising performance.SYP356909W001

[0036] The advantages of this approach include improved spectral efficiency and resource utilization. Reusing resource allocations in non-interfering zones reduces the overall demand for unique resources, enabling the network to support more devices and connections without degrading performance. This is particularly beneficial in dense deployment scenarios where efficient use of available spectrum may be crucial.

[0037] According to various examples, determining the resource allocation comprises using machine learning algorithms. By leveraging these advanced computational techniques, the method can analyze complex patterns in network data to make informed decisions about resource assignments.

[0038] Machine learning algorithms enable the network to adapt dynamically to changing conditions by identifying optimal resource allocations based on historical and real-time data. This leads to more intelligent and responsive management of communication resources.

[0039] According to various examples, each resource allocation is further based on an estimate of an inter-radio-node interference level at the respective radio node. This approach ensures that resource assignments not only account for the operational needs of individual nodes but also consider potential interference between them.

[0040] According to various examples, each resource allocation is based on a respective required resource size. This means that the amount of resources assigned to each radio node is determined by its specific needs, ensuring that allocations are proportional to their operational demands.

[0041] By tailoring resource allocations to match the exact requirements of each radio node, the method avoids both under-provisioning and over-provisioning of resources. This leads to a more balanced distribution of available spectrum, optimizing overall network performance while minimizing waste.

[0042] According to various examples, the method further comprises obtaining a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes.

[0043] By enabling radio nodes to initiate requests for (additional) resources, the method ensures that their operational requirements are promptly addressed. This capability is particularly beneficial in dynamic environments where resource demands may fluctuate unexpectedly due to changes in traffic patterns or network conditions.

[0044] According to various examples, the method further comprises obtaining, from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes, a capability indication indicative of its ability to participate in ambient wireless communication and to obtain resource allocation for use in such communication.

[0045] By understanding the capabilities of each radio node, the management system can make informed decisions about resource allocations, ensuring that resources are assigned to nodes capable of utilizing them efficiently. This capability is particularly beneficial in scenarios where nodes may have varying levels of functionality or operational constraints.

[0046] A further aspect relates to a method for use in a radio node of a plurality of radio nodes within a cellular network. Each radio node participates in ambient wireless communication with at least one low-power wireless device associated with it. The method involves obtaining, from a management node of the cellular network, information on a resource allocation for use by theSYP356909W001

[0047] radio node in conducting this ambient wireless communication. The resource allocation is determined based on the deployment of both the plurality of radio nodes and their associated low-power wireless devices. The radio node may comprise, for example, a user equipment including a reader for ambient wireless communication with the associated low-power wireless devices.

[0048] By obtaining resource allocations tailored to its specific deployment context, the radio node can optimize its communication parameters to enhance efficiency and reduce interference.

[0049] According to various examples, the method further comprises providing, to a management node of the cellular network, a report indicative of the number of low-power wireless devices within the communication reach of the radio node. This feature enhances the network's understanding of device distribution around each radio node. By knowing how many devices are connected to each node, the management node can allocate resources more evenly, ensuring efficient operation and preventing overload or underutilization.

[0050] According to various examples, the information on the resource allocation is obtained upon providing the report. This ensures that resource assignments are made based on current data from the radio node, enabling real-time adjustments for optimal performance. The network can adapt quickly to changes in device distribution or communication demands, ensuring reliable connectivity.

[0051] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of an inter-radio-node transmission signal level at the radio node. This provides insights into the communication environment surrounding each node. By understanding transmission levels between nodes, the network can minimize conflicts and enhance signal quality across the entire network.

[0052] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of an inter-radio-node interference level at the radio node. This allows the management system to identify areas experiencing high interference.

[0053] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of the location of the radio node. This spatial data enables precise resource allocation based on physical deployment.

[0054] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of an identifier of the radio node. This unique identification simplifies tracking and managing individual radio nodes within the network.

[0055] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of the locations of each associated low-power wireless device. This detailed information provides a comprehensive view of the communication environment.

[0056] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of the output power provided by the radio node for ambient wireless communication. By understanding transmission power levels, the network can adjust resources to ensure reliable communication while minimizing conflicts and interference with other radio nodes.

[0057] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of characteristics of transmissions from each low-power wireless device associated with the radio node. This includes specifics like signal strength or modulation schemes used by the low-power wireless devices. By considering transmission characteristics, the network can optimize resourceSYP356909W001

[0058] assignments for different types of low-power wireless devices, enhancing efficiency and performance.

[0059] According to various examples, the report is further indicative of error statistics from ambient wireless communication between the radio node and its associated low-power devices. By analyzing error metrics, the network can identify problems and make targeted adjustments to resource allocations to reduce errors and improve overall communication stability.

[0060] According to various examples, the method further comprises providing, to the management node, a request for resource allocation. By allowing radio nodes to submit requests directly, the network can address specific needs promptly, ensuring that each radio node has the necessary resources to maintain optimal performance without delays. Requests from radio nodes may provide direct feedback on their current conditions, enabling the management node to make informed decisions that precisely target areas needing additional resources.

[0061] According to various examples, the method further comprises providing, to the management node, a capability report indicative of the radio node's ability to participate in ambient wireless communication. This report offers insights into the specific functionalities and limitations of each radio node within the network. This may support more precise planning and optimization of network operations. Knowing the specific communication capabilities of individual radio nodes allows for tailored resource assignments, reducing inefficiencies caused by mismatched or underutilized allocations. This capability is particularly beneficial in scenarios where nodes may have varying levels of functionality or operational constraints.

[0062] According to various examples, the method further comprises communicating with at least one low-power wireless device using a resource from the resource allocation. This communication involves transmitting at least one of discovery data, registration data, paging data, and payload data. Generally, the allocated resources may be used for any type of communication between radio nodes and their associated low-power wireless devices. Thus, the method ensures efficient and organized data exchange between radio nodes and their associated low-power wireless devices.

[0063] Generally, the resource allocation may define communication resources for use in ambient wireless communication based on Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) ora combination thereof. By employing these multiple access techniques, shared communication channels may be utilized efficiently among multiple radio nodes and low-power wireless devices, i.e. spectral efficiency may be improved and interference between low-power wireless devices sharing the same communication resources may be reduced. Each multiple access technique may offer advantages - FDMA may reduce interference between simultaneous transmissions, TDMA may optimize time utilization for bursty data, and CDMA may enhance resistance to interference through spread spectrum techniques. By selecting the most appropriate technique(s) based on network conditions, the methods may ensure robust and reliable communications in a variety of deployment scenarios.

[0064] Corresponding devices, i.e. a radio node and a management node, including control circuitry for executing such methods are also disclosed.SYP356909W001

[0065] It is to be understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below may be used not only in the respective combinations indicated, but also in other combinations or in isolation without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0066] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGs. 1 to 3 schematically illustrate communication systems including multiple devices that implement nodes of a low-power ambient wireless communication according to various examples.

[0067] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates details of a device according to various examples.

[0068] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a reference implementation of a radio frequency circuitry of a communication interface of a backscatter communication device.

[0069] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a communication system including a plurality of radio nodes participating in ambient wireless communication with low-power wireless devices according to various examples.

[0070] FIG. 7 is a signaling diagram according to various examples.

[0071] FIG. 8 is a signaling diagram according to further examples.

[0072] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for a management node according to various examples.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method for a radio node according to various examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] Some examples of the present disclosure generally provide for a plurality of circuits or other electrical devices. All references to the circuits and other electrical devices and the functionality provided by each are not intended to be limited to encompassing only what is illustrated and described herein. While particular labels may be assigned to the various circuits or other electrical devices disclosed, such labels are not intended to limit the scope of operation for the circuits and the other electrical devices. Such circuits and other electrical devices may be combined with each other and / or separated in any manner based on the particular type of electrical implementation that is desired. It is recognized that any circuit or other electrical device disclosed herein may include any number of microcontrollers, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processor unit (GPU), integrated circuits, memory devices (e.g., FLASH, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), or other suitable variants thereof), and software which co-act with one another to perform operation(s) disclosed herein. In addition, any one or more of the electrical devices may be configured to execute a program code that is embodied in a non-transitory computer readable medium programmed to perform any number of the functions as disclosed.

[0075] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description of embodiments is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is not intended to be limited by the embodiments described hereinafter or by the drawings, which are taken to be illustrative only.

[0076] The drawings are to be regarded as being schematic representations and elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Rather, the various elements areSYP356909W001

[0077] represented such that their function and general purpose become apparent to a person skilled in the art. Any connection or coupling between functional blocks, devices, components, or other physical or functional units shown in the drawings or described herein may also be implemented by an indirect connection or coupling. A coupling between components may also be established over a wireless connection. Functional blocks may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.

[0078] Hereinafter, techniques for implementing communication between a cellular network and low-power wireless devices such as Ambient Internet of Things (AloT) wireless devices are disclosed.

[0079] The communication may include backscatter communication for transmitting information from the AloT to the network. In backscatter communication, a backscatter communication device such as an AloT modifies an excitation signal received incident from a transmitting source node, to thereby conveying data to a receiver node. The transmitting source node transmits the excitation signal, typically a continuous wave, towards the backscatter communication device. This excitation signal serves as a carrier for the information that the backscatter communication device intends to transmit. The backscatter communication device modulates the incident excitation signal. Typically, the modulation used is ON-OFF-keying (OOK). OOK modulation is achieved by switching the impedance of the radio frequency (RF) interface at the backscatter communication device between two states. These states correspond to the binary values, e.g. 0 and 1, in the information-carrying signal departing from the backscatter communication device. This varies the amplitude of the information-carrying signal between an OFF-state and an ON-state. Binary frequency shift keying (BFSK) may also be used as modulation scheme by switching the impedance of the RF interface at the backscatter communication device between two states with two different speeds. The receiver node then detects these variations in the signal amplitude of the information-carrying signal. The information-carrying signal is demodulated to retrieve the information carried by the informationcarrying signal.

[0080] According to various examples, the (hardware) device implementing the (functionality of the) backscatter communication device may be configured to harvest and store energy from the RF spectrum. More specifically, the energy can be harvested from the excitation signal. For this, the device may include a power-harvesting interface and an energy storage, e.g. a rechargeable battery or a capacitor. This enables the device to store a fraction of the impinging RF power of the excitation signal. Then, this stored power can be used for operating the device and optionally power-boosting the information-carrying signal.

[0081] Generally, there are two primary configurations for backscatter systems: mono-static and bi-static. In a mono-static configuration, the source node and receiver node are co-located, meaning they share the same antenna or are situated in close proximity. This setup simplifies system design and deployment but may limit the range and flexibility of the system. On the other hand, bi-static configurations involve separate source nodes and receiver nodes, allowing for greater flexibility in deployment and potentially improving range and reliability.

[0082] In addition to these two primary configurations, backscatter systems can also be categorized based on the type of RF source used: dedicated or ambient. Dedicated backscatterSYP356909W001

[0083] involves a purpose-built source node that sends an RF signal specifically designed for backscatter communication. This approach provides greater control over the transmitted signal and can result in better system performance. In contrast, ambient backscatter leverages existing environmental RF sources, such as television broadcasts, cellular networks, or Wi-Fi signals, to enable communication. While this approach eliminates the need for a dedicated transmitter, it may introduce challenges related to signal quality and reliability.

[0084] The communication may include ultra-low-power reception using an envelope detector for receiving information from network at the AloT. Ultra-low-power reception using an envelope detector is a signal reception technique designed to reduce the power required for demodulating incoming RF signals. Instead of using complex RF front-end circuitry for signal decoding, an envelope detector extracts the amplitude variations (envelope) of an incoming modulated signal, allowing AloT devices to receive and process signals with minimal power consumption. This method is particularly suitable for AloT applications where continuous low-power listening is required for efficient data reception. Energy harvested from an excitation signal as described above may be used to power the envelope detector.

[0085] The techniques of the present disclosure will be discussed in connection with backscatter and ultra-low-power reception using an envelope detector for communication between the cellular network, e.g. a base station or a user equipment, and low-power wireless devices such as an Ambient Internet of Things (AloT). However, the disclosed techniques are readily applicable to other communication techniques between the cellular network and low-power wireless devices, e.g. active transmission with dynamic power scaling, rate adaptive reception and / or wake-up radio technologies.

[0086] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a communication system 100 according to various examples. FIG. 1 may implement e.g. a mono-static backscatter communication technique. Communication system 100 includes a device 110, a device 120, and a device 150.

[0087] In the scenario of FIG. 1, the device 110 - e.g., a terminal / user equipment (UE) or a repeater node - implements a source node of a backscatter communication 122, 124. The device 110 includes a transmitter and a receiver for backscatter communication with the device 120. The transmitter and receiver may implement a reader functionality for communicating with the device 120, for example for receiving data from the device 120. The device 110 may include further components, for example control circuitry, a transceiver for communicating with device 150, a user interface, a power supply or a battery. In the following, the device 110 will also referred to as radio node, intermediate node or assisting node. The device 110 may transmit, e.g. via the transmitter and under control of the control circuitry, an electromagnetic carrier signal acting as an excitation signal 124 of the backscatter communication to the device 120. It should be noted that the electromagnetic carrier signal may also propagate in directions other than those indicated by the arrow 124, e.g. omnidirectionally. Generally, signal 124 may also be a trigger or command signal, initiating the communication between the device 120 and device 110 and / or providing information from the device 110 to the device 120.

[0088] The device 120 - e.g., an loT or AloT device such as a smartwatch, a smart-meter, a tag such as an inventory tracker, etc. - implements a backscatter communication device. The device 120 includes a backscatter communication (BSC) RF circuitry and a control circuitry. TheSYP356909W001

[0089] device 120 may include further components, for example a receiver, a sensor, and / or an energy storage such as a capacitor or battery. In the following, the device 120 will also referred to as AloT device or low-power wireless device. The excitation signal 124 may be reflected and modulated, e.g. by the BSC RF circuitry under control of the control circuitry, to carry information, which yields an information-carrying signal 122.

[0090] The device 110 may receive, e.g. via the receiver and under control of the control circuitry, the information-carrying signal 122 and may demodulate the information-carrying signal 122 to retrieve the information from the AloT device 120.

[0091] The communication system 100 may comprise further components, such as a device 150, for example a network node - e.g., an access node or a base station (BS) of a cellular network implementing a Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) protocol or a management node of the communication system 100 - communicating with the device 110 as indicated by arrow 112. The device 150 may implement a transceiver and control circuitry. The device 150 may control operation of the devices 110 and 120. In the following, the device 150 will also referred to as network node 150. Devices 150 and 110 may be integrally formed, for example as a base station.

[0092] FIG. 1 is only one example of a configuration of a communication system 100 that can benefit from the techniques disclosed herein. Another scenario, e.g. a bi-static ambient backscatter scenario may also benefit from the techniques disclosed herein as will become apparent from the following description.

[0093] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an exemplary communication system 100 implementing a bi-static backscatter communication technique. Communication system 100 includes a device 110, a device 120, and a device 150.

[0094] In the scenario of FIG. 2, the device 150, for example a network node - e.g., a base station (BS) of a cellular network implementing a Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) protocol or a management node of the communication system 100 - implements a source node of a backscatter communication 122, 124. The device 150 includes a transmitter for backscatter communication with the device 120. The transmitter may implement part of a reader functionality for communicating with the device 120, for example for retrieving data from the device 120. The device 150 may include further components, for example control circuitry, a transceiver for communicating with device 110, a power supply, etc. The device 150 may transmit, e.g. via the transmitter and under control of the control circuitry, an electromagnetic carrier signal acting as an excitation signal 124 of the backscatter communication to the device 120. It should be noted that the electromagnetic carrier signal may also propagate in directions other than those indicated by the arrow 124, e.g. omnidirectionally. Generally, signal 124 may also be a trigger or command signal, initiating the communication between the device 120 and device 110 and / or providing information from the device 150 to the device 120.

[0095] Similar to FIG. 1 , the device 120 - e.g., an loT or AloT device - implements a backscatter communication device. The device 120 includes a backscatter communication (BSC) RF circuitry and a control circuitry. The excitation signal 124 may be reflected and modulated, e.g. by the BSC RF circuitry under control of the control circuitry, to carry information, which yields an information-carrying signal 122.SYP356909W001

[0096] The device 110 - e.g., a terminal / user equipment (UE) or a repeater node - implements a receiver node of the backscatter communication 122, 124. The device 110 includes a receiver for backscatter communication with the device 120. The receiver may implement part of a reader functionality for communicating with the device 120. The device 110 may include further components, for example control circuitry, a transceiver for communicating with device 150, a user interface, a power supply or a battery. The device 110 may receive, e.g. via the receiver and under control of the control circuitry, the information-carrying signal 122 and may demodulate the information-carrying signal 122 to retrieve the information from the AloT device 120.

[0097] The device 150 may communicate with the device 110 as indicated by arrow 112, e.g. using a 3GPP protocol. Information from the AloT device 120 may be forwarded via the device 110 to the device 150.

[0098] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an exemplary communication system 100 implementing a further bi-static backscatter communication technique. Communication system 100 includes a device 110, a device 120, and a device 150.

[0099] In FIG. 3, the device 110 - e.g., a terminal / user equipment (UE) or a repeater node -implements a source node of a backscatter communication 122, 124. The device 110 includes a transmitter for backscatter communication with the device 120. The transmitter may implement part of a reader functionality for communicating with the device 120, e.g. retrieving data from the device 120. The device 110 may transmit an electromagnetic carrier signal acting as an excitation signal 124 of the backscatter communication to the device 120. It should be noted that the electromagnetic carrier signal may also propagate in directions other than those indicated by the arrow 124, e.g. omnidirectionally. Generally, signal 124 may also be a trigger or command signal, initiating the communication between the device 120 and device 150 and / or providing information from the device 110 to the device 120.

[0100] The device 120 - e.g., an loT or AloT device - implements a backscatter communication device. The device 120 includes a backscatter communication (BSC) RF circuitry and a control circuitry. The excitation signal 124 may be reflected and modulated, e.g. by the BSC RF circuitry under control of the control circuitry, to carry information, which yields an information-carrying signal 122. It should be noted that the information-carrying signal 122 may also propagate in directions other than those indicated by the arrow 122, e.g. omnidirectionally.

[0101] The device 150 for example a network node such as a base station (BS) implements a receiver node of the backscatter communication 122, 124. The device 150 includes a receiver for backscatter communication with the device 120. The receiver may implement part of a reader functionality for communicating with the device 120. The device 150 may receive, e.g. via the receiver and under control of the control circuitry, the information-carrying signal 122 and may demodulate the information-carrying signal 122 to retrieve the information from the AloT device 120.

[0102] The device 150 may communicate with the device 110 as indicated by arrow 112, e.g. using a 3GPP protocol.SYP356909W001

[0103] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a device 200 according to various examples. For example, the device 200 may implement any of the devices 110, 120, 150 previously discussed in connection with FIGs. 1 to 3.

[0104] The device 200 includes a processor 202, a communication interface 206, and a memory 204. Communication over a radio spectrum is possible via the communication interface 206. For example, an active wireless transmission of one or more excitation signals of a backscatter communication can be implemented. It would also be possible for a received signal to be reflected in a modulated manner, as previously discussed in connection with the BSC device 120. It would also be possible to receive and demodulate an information-carrying signal. The communication interface 206 may or may not include an energy storage such as a battery; and / or may or may not include a power-harvesting interface. In some scenarios, the communication interface 206 may be powered from a battery or energy storage or energy supply of the device 200, e.g., also powering the processor 202 for general device operations. The communication interface 206 may not only implement physical layer functionality, i.e. , spectrum access, but may also implement higher layers of a transmission protocol stack, e.g., to provide control messages or to receive control messages. The processor 202 may load program code from the memory 204 and execute the program code. Upon executing the program code, the processor 202 may be configured to: implement the functionality of one or more nodes / devices of a backscatter communication; implement a source node of a reader functionality of a backscatter communication; implement a BSC device of a backscatter communication; implement a receiver node of a reader functionality of a backscatter communication; transmit an excitation signal; receive an excitation signal; modulate and reflect an excitation signal, to obtain an information-carrying signal; transmit the information-carrying signal; receive an information-carrying signal; demodulate an information-carrying signal; and so on.

[0105] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary RF circuitry 300 of a device capable of implementing a backscatter node, such as the BSC RF circuitry of device 120 of FIGs. 1 to 3, of a backscatter communication according to various examples. The RF circuitry 300 enables, e.g., a passive backscatter communication. For this, the excitation signal 124, e.g. an information-carrying signal, obtained from the source node via an antenna circuit 306 is either absorbed (OFF-duration) or reflected (ON-duration). Reflection can be achieved by setting the switch 308 to the position in which it is connected to the impedance-mismatched load 302. In this scenario, there is an impedance mismatch between the antenna circuitry 306 and the load 302, leading to the reflection. Absorption can be achieved by setting the switch 308 to the position in which it is connected to the impedance-matched load 304. In this scenario, there is an impedance match between the antenna circuitry 306 and the load 304, leading to the absorption. The switch is actuated by a circuitry 310 that may apply an OOK modulation scheme based on an incoming bitstream 312 that encodes the information to be communicated.

[0106] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary deployment of a plurality of devices / radio nodes 110A, 110B, 110C, e.g. user equipment devices, and a plurality of low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H, for example AloT devices such as RFID tags, in a cellular network 100.SYP356909W001

[0107] The cellular network 100 may comprise a plurality of cells (only part of one cell is shown in FIG. 6). Each cell may be provided with at least one radio access node, for example a base station. One of these radio access nodes is illustrated as base station 150. The radio nodes 110A, 11 OB, 110C may have registered at the base station 150 and uplink and downlink communication 112A, 112B, 112C is established between each of the radio nodes 110A, 110B, 1100 and the base station 150, e.g. according to 3GPP cellular communication protocols.

[0108] Due to the limited transmission power and the arrangement of the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H, direct communication between the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H and the base station 150 may not be possible or desired.

[0109] Therefore, each radio node 11 OA, 11 OB, 1100 may be provided with an AloT reader for communicating with the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H. Thus, each radio node 110A, 11 OB, 1100 may act as an intermediate or assisting node enabling and supporting the communication between the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H and the base station 150. Each radio node 11 OA, 110B, 1100 may implement at least a part of the reader functionality as described above.

[0110] In the illustrated example, the communication between the radio nodes 110A, 110B, 1100 and the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H is a realized as a mono-static backscatter communication. However, this is only an example and bi-static backscatter communication or active transmissions from the low-power wireless devices may be used instead. A source of the excitation signal for bi-static backscatter communication may be any radio frequency source, for example a (not shown) WLAN in indoor environments.

[0111] In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120C may be arranged near and communicate with radio node 110A, the low-power wireless devices 120C to 120F may be arranged near and communicate with radio node 11 OB, and the low-power wireless devices 120G and 120H may be arranged near and communicate with radio node 110C.

[0112] In the following, the reference signs 110, 112, 120, and 600 without an appended letter are used when reference is intended to one or more of the elements 110Ato 110C, 112Ato 112C, 120Ato 120H, and 600Ato 600C, respectively. Corresponding reference signs with an appended letter are used when reference is intended to one or more specific entities 110A to 110C, 112Ato 112C, 120Ato 120H, and 600Ato 600C, respectively.

[0113] The ambient wireless communication between a radio node 110 and the low-power wireless devices 120 associated with the respective radio node 110 requires radio resources. However, in a dense scenario, using the same radio resources by each of the radio nodes 110A to 110C may cause interference. Therefore, in the vicinity of each radio node 110, virtually an interference-limited area may be defined such that within a corresponding interference-limited area, the corresponding radio node and the assigned low-power wireless devices may cause a radio frequency power that can significantly interfere with ambient wireless communication of other radio nodes and / or low-power wireless devices within the interference-limited area.

[0114] Outside the interference-limited area, the radio frequency power is sufficiently low to not disturb ambient wireless communication of other radio node and / or low-power wireless devices.SYP356909W001

[0115] For example, the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 11 OB and the low-power wireless devices 120D to 120F may cause a significant radio frequency power in an interference-limited area 600B which may interfere with the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 110A and the low-power wireless device 120C as well as the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 11 OC and the low-power wireless device 120G. In a similar way, the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 110Aand the low-power wireless devices 120A to 120C may cause a significant radio frequency power in an interference-limited area 600A which may interfere with the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 11 OB and the low-power wireless device 120D. Also, the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 1100 and the low-power wireless devices 120G and 120H may cause a significant radio frequency power in an interference-limited area 6000 which may interfere with the ambient wireless communication between the radio node 11 OB and the low-power wireless device 120F.

[0116] Interference-limited areas may be considered when allocating resources for the ambient wireless communication. For example, interference-limited areas that do not overlap, e.g. interference-limited areas 600A and 6000 in FIG. 6, may use same resources, whereas overlapping interference-limited areas may need to have different resources to avoid interference. In the example of FIG: 6, in the interference-limited areas 600A and 6000 the same resources may be shared.

[0117] Generally, the resource allocation may define the resources to be used by the readers in the sense of resources of a Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), a Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or a combination thereof.

[0118] For example, FDMA may allocate distinct frequency bands or resource blocks (RBs) to different radio nodes 110Ato 1100. Radio signals with frequencies of the allocated frequency bands or resource blocks may be used by the reader as excitation signals in backscatter communication. This may reduce interference by spatially separating frequencies, allowing simultaneous transmissions without overlapping in frequency. TDMA may assign specific time slots within a frequency band for each radio node 110A to 11 OC. Radio signals within the assigned time slot may be used by the reader as excitation signals in backscatter communication. This may prevent collisions by scheduling transmissions so only one device uses a generally available frequency at any given time. In CDMA unique orthogonal codes may be utilized to allow multiple low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H to share the same frequency and time. CDMA enables simultaneous transmissions with minimal interference, as each signal is distinguishable by its code.

[0119] An exemplary resource allocation technique for allocating resources to be used by the readers of the intermediate / assisting radio nodes 110Ato 1100 in topologies where there is no direct communication between the low-power wireless devices 120Ato 120H and the network / base-station 150 will be described in the following.

[0120] In the context of Ambient Internet of Things (AloT) communication, resource allocation techniques for scheduling and resource allocation may optimize ambient wireless communication between AloT devices and radio nodes acting as AloT readers. The techniques may involve determining those radio nodes, e.g. UEs, that operate as AloT readers andSYP356909W001

[0121] identifying their locations. A number of AloT devices assigned to each radio node may also be determined, e.g. based on information from the radio nodes to which they are assigned or based on registration of the AloT devices at the network. Based on this information, a (potential) level of interference may be estimated. A resource allocation type may be selected. A size of the resources to be allocated to each radio node may be determined based on the number of assigned AloT devices. Interference-limited areas, which may also be referred to as virtual interference-limited cells, may be identified. For interference-limited areas which may disturb each other, i.e. overlapping interference-limited areas, resource allocation may be performed using techniques such as Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) to provide distinct resources. The allocated resources may be communicated to the radio nodes, enabling them to establish communication with the assigned AloT devices.

[0122] In more detail, to facilitate scheduling and resource allocation, the network, e.g. a management node of a core network of the cellular network or a gNodeB (gNB), may dynamically gather information regarding the existence and number of AloT devices and (intermediate) radio nodes in the vicinity of each other. By acquiring this information, the network assesses potential interference from different radio nodes and determines the resource size necessary for scheduling and allocation. Furthermore, the network may gather information on actual interference level from the radio nodes, e.g. information on not or negative acknowledged data transfers between the radio node and an assigned AloT device. Details for obtaining information on the interference level will be discussed below. Using this data, the network establishes boundaries for virtual cells, defining interference-limited areas based on the interference level. If the interference level is below a defined threshold, radio nodes are considered to belong to different virtual cells and can share the same time, frequency and / or code resources. If the interference level exceeds the threshold, resource scheduling is implemented to mitigate interference. For example, FDMA-based resource allocation may be applied.

[0123] The proposed resource allocation method is applicable to both Reader-to-Device (R2D) communications, see signal 124 in FIGs. 1 to 3, and Device-to-Reader (D2R) communications, see signal 122 in FIGs. 1 to 3. It also accommodates various traffic types, including Device Originated-Device Terminated Triggered (DO-DTT), Device-Terminated (DT), and Device-Originated Autonomous (DO-A) traffic. DO-DTT traffic may be used by the AloT device to respond back to a received inventory request or a command. DT traffic may be used by the network or an application (via the network) to send a command or an inventory request to the AloT device. DO-A traffic may be used by the AloT device to initiate a communication session.

[0124] To determine or estimate interference levels among radio nodes, several approaches can be employed within the AloT framework. First, the network can gather information about the location and proximity of radio nodes. This can be achieved using existing positioning data available from each radio node or by explicitly retrieving such information when a radio node transmits a message indicating its capability as a reader or requests resource allocation.

[0125] Furthermore, AloT devices can report which radio nodes they are able to detect. In this scenario, the radio nodes broadcast trigger signals that include their unique identifiers. UponSYP356909W001

[0126] receiving these triggers, the AloT devices then report the identifiers of the detectable radio nodes back to the network e.g., on some pre-configured resources or resources that are currently allocated to, providing valuable information about their surroundings.

[0127] Moreover, radio nodes themselves can communicate with each other via side-link-communications to discover nearby nodes and subsequently report this information to the network, e.g. to a base station (BS). This direct communication among radio nodes enhances the network's understanding of their spatial distribution and potential interference sources.

[0128] Finally, an artificial intelligence (Al) based solution offers another way for determining interference levels by aggregating data from any combination of the aforementioned methods. Using machine learning algorithms or decision-making models, the network can analyze this collective data to estimate interference levels accurately and make informed decisions regarding resource allocation.

[0129] This approach ensures that the network dynamically adapts to the changing positions and activities of radio nodes, thereby optimizing communication efficiency and minimizing interference in AloT communications.

[0130] In scenarios where multiple radio nodes operate within the same coverage area of a base station or cell, the following approach may be applied to manage interference effectively. Traditionally, cell-based systems rely on controlling output power to adjust cell sizes and mitigate inter-cell interference. However, when radio nodes are deployed as intermediate radio nodes and possess mobility, employing conventional power control methods may become challenging. To address this, the above outlined techniques may be applied to schedule these intermediate radio nodes within the same coverage area.

[0131] For example, each radio node is assigned distinct resources, such as different frequency resources, to prevent overlap in their communication channels. AloT devices communicating with a specific radio node may remain within the frequency resources allocated to that radio node. Should an AloT device need to communicate with a different radio node, it may seamlessly transition to the corresponding frequency resources assigned to that radio node. This dynamic allocation may require a clear mapping of each radio node to its designated frequency resources, which may be communicated to the AloT devices through control information embedded in either physical or higher-layer signaling, potentially utilizing the radio node's unique identifier for clarity and precision. This ensures efficient resource utilization and minimizes interference in environments where multiple mobile radio nodes coexist, thus maintaining reliable communication within ambient wireless communications.

[0132] Determining interference levels and assigning resources within ambient wireless communications for AloT devices may involve translating various reports into actionable insights for resource allocation. Multiple inputs may be considered, including the number of low-power wireless devices connected to each radio node, their spatial positions, signal levels between radio nodes, output power considerations (e.g. Continuous Wave Emission, CWE, of the radio node), AloT device amplification capabilities, and feedback of current transmission such as ACK / NACK (acknowledgement / negative acknowledgement) signals. The network may employ either machine learning models or decision-based algorithms to interpret these inputs effectively.SYP356909W001

[0133] In this determination a coupling loss (CL) may be considered, which quantifies signal attenuation between various network elements, including radio node to AloT devices and inter-radio-nodes. CL accounts for both propagation loss and antenna gains, influencing how AloT devices are associated with specific radio nodes.

[0134] Signal levels can be measured by the radio nodes themselves. Also, AloT device-side measurements may be conducted, providing flexibility in data collection. Additionally, some AloT devices may support amplification, and this capability, along with output power, could be reported to further refine the resource allocation process. Radio nodes may also measure signal strength from other nearby radio nodes or devices, enhancing the network's understanding of the communication environment.

[0135] Initially, a default resource size may be allocated based on time and frequency considerations for each radio node. However, if the number of NACKs or failed communications exceeds a predefined threshold — as identified by the radio node or directly observed by the network or base station — the resource allocation may be adjusted. In such cases, the radio node notifies the network or base station, which then either extends the current resource assignment or allocates new resources to accommodate the increased demand.

[0136] Moreover, the number of AloT devices within an interference-limited area that a radio node can detect is a significant parameter for resource assignment models. This information allows the model to adjust resource sizes dynamically, such as assigning one or multiple frequencies in Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) resources, ensuring optimal communication efficiency and minimizing interference in AloT communications.

[0137] A type of the AloT device may also be considered in resource allocation. For example, if the AloT device is a tag for determining the presence of an assigned entity, only a small amount of communication data and low data rates may be expected. If the AloT device is a sensor of a home automation system, significantly more communication data and higher data rates may be expected. Depending on the amount of AloT devices of each type within an ambient wireless communication of a radio node, a number of resources may be allocated for the radio node.

[0138] FIG. 7 schematically shows how AloT devices, radio nodes, and network components interact to achieve registration, resource allocation, and interference management.

[0139] The signaling diagram, as depicted in FIG. 7, focuses on the initial stages of communication, emphasizing registration and capability signaling. During this phase, metrics crucial for geographic positioning and determining the number of devices in proximity to specific radio nodes are collected. This information is essential for performing an initial resource allocation that ensures efficient data transmission while minimizing interference.

[0140] Subsequently, a signaling diagram shown in FIG. 8 expands on these concepts by detailing how various parameters, or "metrics," are utilized dynamically to update resource assignments based on feedback from AloT devices and radio nodes. This adaptive approach allows the network to respond to changing conditions in real-time, ensuring robust and reliable communication.

[0141] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the AloT devices 120 may register within the network, e.g. at a node of the Core Network (CN) 752, signaling 702. Signaling 702 may include additional information, for example capabilities of the AloT device 120 with respect to supported accessSYP356909W001

[0142] technologies and communication resources such as frequencies or codings. While the physical layer data is transmitted e.g. via a radio node 110 (acting as an intermediate radio node including a reader functionality) and a base station 150 as part of the access network (NW) 754, logical communication may be established directly with the CN 752. This setup enables the network to gather and host information regarding the number of AloT devices 120 accessible in close proximity to certain radio nodes 110. However, this is only an example and in other examples, the CN 752 functionality may be implemented in other nodes, for example a node of the NW 754, for example in a base station 150.

[0143] Once registered, the count of AloT devices 120 associated with each radio node 110 can be shared across different parts of the network, such as a gNB (Next Generation Node B), facilitating a coordinated approach to resource management, see signaling 704. Radio nodes 110, upon registering at the NW 754, may signal their capability to act as intermediate nodes to the network, see signaling 706, indicating their readiness to participate in AloT communication. Signaling 706 may include further capability information of the radio nodes, e.g. a capability to obtain a resource allocation for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication. Further details will be described in connection with FIGs. 9 and 10, box 902 and box 1002.

[0144] The NW 754 may then transmit a configuration message (signaling 708) to these radio nodes 110, outlining the methodology for resource assignment. This message may specify whether resources will be allocated on a semi-persistent basis for both uplink and downlink communications or only per individual message. Also, it could detail an initial allocation of multiple resources, providing flexibility based on network requirements.

[0145] Geographic positioning information may be an integral part of this technique. The radio nodes 110 may provide their positions to the network 754 and / or a location management function (LMF) 750 of the cellular network, see signaling 710. Providing their positions may be performed in regular terms, upon receiving the configuration message (signaling 708), or upon a request from the access network 754, the core network 52 or the LMF 750. In scenarios where such information is not directly provided by the radio node 110, the network 754 may request location information from a the LMF 750 (signaling 712), ensuring accurate spatial awareness.

[0146] The network aggregates and processes the collected data, including registration details, capability signals, and positioning information, to estimate interference levels, see block 714. This translation of inputs into actionable insights can be achieved through predefined rules and tables or by employing machine learning models trained to optimize spectral efficiency and minimize both interference and resource usage.

[0147] Using these estimates, the network may identify geographical virtual areas where specific resource assignments can effectively mitigate interference, see block 716. This determination may maintain high performance in densely populated AloT environments, ensuring that each radio node operates within designated non-interfering areas.

[0148] Finally, the network may determine the resource assignment based on the estimated values and levels, see block 718, and may communicate the allocated resources to both AloT devices and radio nodes, signaling 720 and signaling 722. This ensures that AloT devices canSYP356909W001

[0149] communicate with specific radio node readers using the assigned resources including frequency and time resources, minimizing conflicts and optimizing overall network performance.

[0150] Further, as illustrated in FIG. 8, AloT devices 120 and radio nodes 110 may collaborate to gather and report metrics essential for efficient network operation. While not strictly necessary, AloT devices 120 may provide valuable information to their associated radio nodes 110, including device identifiers, received signal power levels, signal acknowledgments, geographical locations, or quality indicators like Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR). See signaling 802. Signaling 802 enhances the network's understanding of the communication environment but is not a mandatory requirement since radio nodes are capable of performing their own metric measurements.

[0151] Radio nodes 110 may complement AloT-device-reported metrics (from signaling 802) by measuring similar parameters, such as signal power levels, SNR / SINR using a beacon transmitted by the AloTs, and acknowledgments, see block 804. Additionally, they may assess their reachability to AloT devices and identify other nearby radio nodes, compiling a comprehensive dataset that includes the number of accessible AloT devices and proximate radio nodes.

[0152] Once these metrics are collected, each radio node 110 may generate one or more reports encapsulating all gathered information and may transmit it / them to the NW 754, see signaling 806. This report may be considered in decision-making regarding resource allocation and interference management. Furthermore, other network entities, such as LMF node 750, may contribute additional data, see signaling 808, e.g. geographical location information and node / device characteristics, which aids in accurately determining the spatial deployment, interference levels and requirements of AloT devices and radio nodes.

[0153] The NW 754 aggregates all received metrics from various sources and processes them to estimate interference levels, block 810. This translation can be achieved through predefined rules and tables or by employing sophisticated machine learning models. These models are trained to optimize spectral efficiency while minimizing interference levels and resource consumption, potentially directly outputting resource assignments based on the analyzed data.

[0154] Using these estimates, the network dynamically adapts its resource assignment strategy, block 812. For instance, it may allocate specific Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) tones to particular radio nodes to avoid interference. The allocated resources are then communicated to the designated radio nodes 110, ensuring they utilize the appropriate frequencies for their ambient wireless communications. Signaling 814.

[0155] Optionally, the network may also provide this information to AloT devices 120, enabling them to communicate effectively with their associated radio nodes 110 using the allocated frequency resources. Signaling 816. This coordinated approach ensures seamless and efficient data transmission in ambient wireless communications, maintaining high performance even in dynamic and interference-prone environments.

[0156] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method 900 according to various examples. FIG. 9 generally relates to an implementation of a resource allocation for ambient wireless communications.

[0157] The method 900 of FIG. 9 can be executed by a node of a cellular network. For example, the method can be executed by a compute circuitry of the node of the cellularSYP356909W001

[0158] network. For instance, the method can be executed by a processor upon loading and executing program code that is stored in a memory. For example, the method of FIG. 9 may be executed by a node that is located in an access network or a core network of the cellular network. The node may be a management node, i.e. , the node may execute a management function for managing resource allocation for ambient wireless communications. For instance, the node can be a new function in an access node such as a base station or in a node of a core network of a cellular network such as a 5G core network.

[0159] At optional box 902, the node obtains information indicative of a capability of one or more radio nodes 110, e.g., one or more UEs. The capability is associated with a capability of the respective radio node to participate in ambient wireless communication and to obtain a resource allocation for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication. For instance, box 902 can include receiving a higher-layer control message. In other examples, the capabilities of the one or more radio nodes may be predefined in the network or otherwise provided by the one or more radio nodes, e.g., upon registration with the cellular network, and thus known to the management node.

[0160] The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of supporting resource allocations based on different access types such as FDMA, TDMA and / or CDMA. The capability may be indicative of supported frequency ranges and coding schemes. The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of determining and reporting of metrics of the ambient wireless communications.

[0161] At optional box 904, the management node may obtain a request from one or more radio nodes for a resource allocation. For example, a radio node may request a resource allocation or an update of the resource allocation upon a movement of the radio node, upon determining a change of the arrangement or number of AloT devices in communication with the radio node, upon detecting a change in communication quality in the ambient wireless communications with the AloT devices, or upon detection of interfering signals from neighboring radio nodes. Upon receiving the request for resource allocation, the management node may determine or update the resource allocation as will be described below. However, the management node may determine or update the resource allocation upon other triggers, e.g. in regular terms or upon requests from other nodes, e.g. from a LMF node that may have determined a change of the deployment of the radio nodes and / or AloT devices.

[0162] At optional box 906, the management node may obtain the number of low-power wireless devices in communication reach of each radio node. For example, the management node may receive from each radio node a report indicating of a number of respective low-power wireless devices in communication reach of the respective radio node. In some examples, the management node may determine the number of low-power wireless devices in communication reach of each radio node based on registration of the low-power wireless devices at the management node or any other node of the core network.

[0163] At optional box 908, the management node may determine a location of each radio node. At optional box 910, the management node may determine a location of each of the plurality of low-power wireless devices. For example, each radio node may transmit a message indicating its location and locations of low-power wireless devices in its vicinity. In someSYP356909W001

[0164] examples, a function of the core network may keep track of the locations of the radio nodes and / or the low-power wireless devices, such as an LMF, and the management node may obtain the location information from this function.

[0165] At optional box 912, the management node may estimate an inter-radio-node interference level for each radio node. The inter-radio-node interference level for a specific radio node may indicate a signal level of interference signals from other radio nodes at a specific radio node. The inter-radio-node interference level for a specific radio node may indicate a signal to noise level at the specific node. The inter-radio-node interference level may be determined based on the locations of the radio nodes and transmit powers of each of the radio nodes. In some examples, the inter-radio-node interference level may be determined, e.g. measured, at each radio node and reported from each radio node to the management node. In some examples, each radio node may determine / measure and report an inter-radio-node transmission signal level at the radio node. The management node may determine the inter-radio-node interference level based on the inter-radio-node transmission signal level.

[0166] At optional box 914, the management node may determine resource requirements for the ambient wireless communication for each radio node. The resource requirements may be preset in the network. The resource requirements may be determined based on requests from the radio nodes. In some examples, the resource requirements may be determined based on the deployment of the radio nodes and the assigned low-power wireless devices. In some examples, types of the low-power wireless devices may be considered for determining the resource requirements.

[0167] Based on the information obtained in boxes 902 to 914, the management node may determine in optional box 916 interference-limited areas. For example, for each radio node participating in ambient wireless communication, an area may be determined in which the power of signals of the ambient wireless communication is above a threshold. Consequently, outside this area, the power of signals of the ambient wireless communication is below the threshold. The threshold may be set such that other ambient wireless communication is not significantly disturbed by the power of signals of the ambient wireless communication. In other words, interference caused by the power of signals of the ambient wireless communication is limited to this area.

[0168] In optional box 918, a resource allocation may be determined. For example, resource blocks of a set of resource blocks defined in time and frequency for the ambient wireless communication in the cellular network may be assigned to each interference-limited area, e.g. by an artificial intelligence model or a decision-based model. As discussed in connection with FIG. 6, the same resources may be assigned to non-overlapping interference-limited areas. Thus, resources can be re-used. Resources should be different in overlapping interferencelimited areas, e.g. resources may differ in time, frequency and / or coding by use of TDMA, FDMA and / or CDMA, respectively.

[0169] At box 920, the determined resource allocations are provided to the radio nodes.

[0170] Optionally, the determined resource allocations may be provided to the low-power wireless devices also.SYP356909W001

[0171] The above steps may be repeated in regular terms or upon determining a change in the deployment of the radio nodes and / or low-power wireless devices and / or communication characteristics in the ambient wireless communications between the radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices. The radio nodes can determine metrics on the communication characteristics in the wireless ambient communications, e.g. a signal-to-noise ratio or a rate of failed transmissions (e.g. as NACK / ACK). The metrics can be communicated to the management node for adjusting the resource allocation.

[0172] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method 1000 for a radio node according to various examples. The method of FIG. 10 generally pertains to actions associated with a resource allocation for ambient wireless communications. FIG. 10 is for use in a radio node participating in an ambient wireless communication between the radio node and at least one low-power wireless device associated with the radio node. The method 1000 can be executed by a processor upon loading and executing program code from a memory. The method 1000 can be executed by a radio node 110 such as a UE.

[0173] The method 1000 of FIG. 10 can be inter-related to the method 900 of FIG. 9.

[0174] At optional box 1002, the radio node may provide a capability associated with a capability of the radio node to participate in ambient wireless communication and to obtain a resource allocation for use by the radio node for the ambient wireless communication. For instance, the capability can be provided to a node implementing a base station. Aspects with respect to such signaling of the capability have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9 box 902.

[0175] At optional box 1004, a request for a resource allocation may be transmitted to the management node. Aspects with respect to such request have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9: box 904.

[0176] At optional box 1006, the radio node may provide information regarding a number of low-power wireless devices and positions of the low-power wireless devices. Aspects with respect to such information have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9: boxes 906 and 910.

[0177] At optional box 1008, the radio node may provide information to the management node regarding its position. Aspects with respect to such information have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9: box 908. In addition or as an alternative, the radio node may provide in optional box 1010 its identifier. The identifier may be used by the management node for retrieving the radio node's position from a location service, e.g. LMF.

[0178] At optional box 1012, the radio node may provide an inter-radio-node interference level to the management node, i.e. a level of interference caused by other radio nodes in the vicinity as experienced at the radio node. Aspects with respect to inter-radio-node interference levels have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9: box 912.

[0179] At optional box 1014, the radio node may provide information to the management node regarding resource requirements for the ambient wireless communications with the low-power wireless devices. Aspects with respect to such resource requirements have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 9: box 914.

[0180] The radio node can determine metrics on the communication characteristics in the wireless ambient communications, e.g. a signal-to-noise ratio, an output power, or statisticsSYP356909W001

[0181] such as a rate of failed transmissions (e.g. as NACK / ACK). The metrics can be communicated to the management node for adjusting the resource allocation. See box 1016.

[0182] At box 1018, the radio node may obtain resource allocations determined at the management node. At optional box 1020, the radio node may use the resource allocations for communicating with the assigned low-power wireless devices.

[0183] It should be noted that the steps described above can be performed in any order unless a specific order is defined. Furthermore, one or more of the steps described above can be performed within one step. E.g. the steps described in boxes 1004, 1006, 1008 and 1010 may be performed within one step and only one message may be transmitted to provide the information defined in these steps.

[0184] In Summary, ambient wireless communications may employ dynamic physical resource allocation techniques to mitigate interference and collisions, particularly in scenarios where multiple radio nodes operate within close proximity. This approach may be in particular beneficial when these radio nodes are mobile and the number of connected AloT devices varies overtime. The techniques leverage resource allocation types such as Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), and Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA).

[0185] Interference-limited areas may be defined, which are geographical regions where radio nodes and their associated AloT devices operate under controlled interference conditions. This spatial division ensures that resource allocation can be optimized to minimize conflicts between nearby nodes.

[0186] Input parameters from various sources may be collected and translated to determine interference levels. These parameters may include the number of active radio nodes, the number of AloT devices, signal strength measurements, and geographical positioning data. The translation may involve mapping these inputs into actionable metrics, which can be achieved through predefined rules or algorithms, including machine learning models designed to enhance spectral efficiency.

[0187] Based on the estimated interference levels, resource assignments may be dynamically adjusted. This includes determining the appropriate resource size, allocation strategy, and scheduling parameters, all of which are dependent on the number and distribution of radio nodes and AloT devices in the network. The flexibility of this method allows for real-time updates to resource allocations as network conditions change, ensuring efficient use of available spectrum while maintaining reliable communication.

[0188] This dynamic resource management approach may be utilized for managing interference and collisions in dense AloT environments with multiple mobile radio nodes. By defining interference-limited areas, translating input parameters into actionable metrics, and continuously updating resource assignments, optimal network performance and scalability may be ensured, accommodating the varying demands of ambient wireless communications.

[0189] Summarizing, at least the following EXAMPLES have been disclosed:

[0190] EXAMPLE 1: A method for use in a management node of a cellular network, wherein the cellular network (100) includes a plurality of radio nodes, wherein each radio node (110) of theSYP356909W001

[0191] plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node (110) and at least one respective low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110), the method (900) comprising:

[0192] providing (920), to each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes, information on a respective resource allocation for use by the respective radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication,

[0193] wherein the resource allocations are based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices (120).

[0194] EXAMPLE 2: The method of EXAMPLE 1, further comprising:

[0195] obtaining (906), from each of the plurality of radio nodes, a report indicative of a number of respective low-power wireless devices (120) in communication reach of the respective radio node (110).

[0196] EXAMPLE 3: The method of EXAMPLE 2, wherein the information on the respective resource allocation is provided to each of the plurality of radio nodes upon obtaining the report from each respective radio node (110).

[0197] EXAMPLE 4: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the method (900) is automatically repeated upon at least one of:

[0198] determining a change of the deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and / or the low-power wireless devices (120),

[0199] a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes, and

[0200] a predefined schedule.

[0201] EXAMPLE 5: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, further comprising:

[0202] providing, to each low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110), the information on the respective resource allocation to be used for the ambient wireless communication.

[0203] EXAMPLE 6: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, further comprising:

[0204] determining (918), for each of the plurality of radio nodes, the respective resource allocation.

[0205] EXAMPLE 7: The method of EXAMPLE 6, wherein determining (918) the resource allocations comprises determining (908, 910) a location of each of the plurality of radio nodes and / or a location of each of the plurality of low-power wireless devices.

[0206] EXAMPLE 8: The method of EXAMPLE 6 or 7, wherein determining (918) the resource allocations comprises determining (916) at least one group of interference-limited areas (600) and assigning each of the plurality of radio nodes to one of the interference limited areas (600).

[0207] EXAMPLE 9: The method of EXAMPLE 8, wherein each group of the at least one group of interference-limited areas (600) is determined such that, in each one of the interferencelimited areas (600) of the group, interference caused by radio frequency power of the ambient wireless communication in another one of the interference-limited areas (600) of the group is below a predefined threshold.SYP356909W001

[0208] EXAMPLE 10: The method of EXAMPLE 8 or 9, wherein at least one resource allocation is re-used across the radio nodes (110) assigned to different interference-limited areas (600) of a group of the at least one group of interference-limited areas.

[0209] EXAMPLE 11: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 6-10, wherein determining (918) the resource allocation comprises a use of machine learning algorithms.

[0210] EXAMPLE 12: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES,

[0211] wherein each resource allocation is further based on an estimate of an inter-radio-node interference level at the respective radio node.

[0212] EXAMPLE 13: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES,

[0213] wherein each resource allocation is based on a respective required resource size.

[0214] EXAMPLE 14: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, further comprising:

[0215] obtaining (904) a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes.

[0216] EXAMPLE 15: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, further comprising:

[0217] obtaining (902), from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes, a capability indication indicative of a capability of the respective radio node (110) to participate in the ambient wireless communication and to obtain a resource allocation for use by the respective radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication.

[0218] EXAMPLE 16: A method for use in a radio node of a plurality of radio nodes of a cellular network, each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes participating in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node (110) and at least one respective low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110), the method (1000) comprising:

[0219] obtaining (1018), from a management node (752) of the cellular network (100), information on a resource allocation for use by the radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication, wherein the resource allocation is based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices (120).

[0220] EXAMPLE 17: The method of EXAMPLE 16, further comprising:

[0221] providing (1006), to a management node (752) of the cellular network (100), a report indicative of a number of the low-power wireless devices (120) in communication reach of the radio node (110).

[0222] EXAMPLE 18: The method of EXAMPLE 17, wherein the information on the resource allocation is obtained upon providing (1006) the report.

[0223] EXAMPLE 19: The method of EXAMPLE 17 or EXAMPLE 18, wherein the report is further indicative of an inter-radio-node transmission signal level at the radio node (110).

[0224] EXAMPLE 20: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-19, wherein the report is further indicative of an inter-radio-node interference level at the radio node (110).

[0225] EXAMPLE 21: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-20, wherein the report is further indicative of a location of the radio node (110).

[0226] EXAMPLE 22: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-21, wherein the report is further indicative of an identifier of the radio node (110).SYP356909W001

[0227] EXAMPLE 23: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-22, wherein the report is further indicative of locations of each of the at least one low-power wireless device (120) associated with the radio node (110).

[0228] EXAMPLE 24: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-23, wherein the report is further indicative of an output power provided by the radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication.

[0229] EXAMPLE 25: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-24, wherein the report is further indicative of characteristics of a transmission from each of the at least one low-power wireless device (12) associated with the radio node (110).

[0230] EXAMPLE 26: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 17-25, wherein the report is further indicative of error statistics of the ambient wireless communication between the radio node (110) and the at least one low-power wireless device (120) associated with the radio node (110).

[0231] EXAMPLE 27: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 16-26, further comprising:

[0232] providing (1004), to the management node (752), a request for resource allocation.

[0233] EXAMPLE 28: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 16-27, further comprising:

[0234] providing (1002), to the management node (752), a capability report indicative of a capability of the radio node (110) to participate in ambient wireless communication.

[0235] EXAMPLE 29: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 16-28, further comprising:

[0236] communicating (1020) with the at least one low-power wireless device (120) using a resource of the resource allocation, wherein communicating comprises communicating at least one of discovery data, registration data, paging data and payload data.

[0237] EXAMPLE 30: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the resource allocation defines communication resources for use for the ambient wireless communication based on at least one of Frequency Division Multiple Access, Time Division Multiple Access and Code Division Multiple Access.

[0238] EXAMPLE 31: A management node of a cellular network, wherein the cellular network (100) includes a plurality of radio nodes, wherein each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node (110) and at least one respective low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110),

[0239] wherein the management node (752) comprises compute circuitry configured to:

[0240] provide (920), to each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes, information on a respective resource allocation for use by the respective radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication,

[0241] wherein the resource allocations are based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices (120).

[0242] EXAMPLE 32: The management node of EXAMPLE 31, wherein the compute circuitry is configured to execute the method (900) of any one of EXAMPLES 1 to 15.

[0243] EXAMPLE 33: A radio node of a plurality of radio nodes of a cellular network, each radio node (110) of the plurality of radio nodes participating in an ambient wireless communicationSYP356909W001

[0244] between the respective radio node (110) and at least one respective low-power wireless device (120) associated with the respective radio node (110),

[0245] wherein the radio node (110) comprises compute circuitry configured to:

[0246] obtain (1018), from a management node (752) of the cellular network (100), information on a resource allocation for use by the radio node (110) for the ambient wireless communication, wherein the resource allocation is based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices (120).

[0247] EXAMPLE 34: The radio node of EXAMPLE 33, wherein the compute circuitry is configured to execute the method of any one of EXAMPLES 16 to 30.

Claims

SYP356909W001CLAIMS1. A method for use in a management node of a cellular network, wherein the cellular network includes a plurality of radio nodes, wherein each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node and at least one respective low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node, the method comprising:providing, to each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes, information on a respective resource allocation for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication,wherein the resource allocations are based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:obtaining, from each of the plurality of radio nodes, a report indicative of a number of respective low-power wireless devices in communication reach of the respective radio node.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the information on the respective resource allocation is provided to each of the plurality of radio nodes upon obtaining the report from each respective radio node.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method is automatically repeated upon at least one of:determining a change of the deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and / or the low-power wireless devices,a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes, anda predefined schedule.

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:providing, to each low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node, the information on the respective resource allocation to be used for the ambient wireless communication.

6. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining, for each of the plurality of radio nodes, the respective resource allocation.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the resource allocations comprises determining a location of each of the plurality of radio nodes and / or a location of each of the plurality of low-power wireless devices.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the resource allocations comprises determining at least one group of interference-limited areas and assigning each of the plurality of radio nodes to one of the interference limited areas.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein each group of the at least one group of interference-limited areas is determined such that, in each one of the interference-limited areas of the group, interference caused by radio frequency power of the ambient wirelessSYP356909W001communication in another one of the interference-limited areas of the group is below a predefined threshold.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein at least one resource allocation is re-used across the radio nodes assigned to different interference-limited areas of a group of the at least one group of interference-limited areas.

11. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the resource allocation comprises a use of machine learning algorithms.

12. The method of claim 1 ,wherein each resource allocation is further based on an estimate of an inter-radio-node interference level at the respective radio node.

13. The method of claim 1 ,wherein each resource allocation is based on a respective required resource size.

14. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:obtaining a request for resource allocation from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes.

15. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:obtaining, from at least one of the plurality of radio nodes, a capability indication indicative of a capability of the respective radio node to participate in the ambient wireless communication and to obtain a resource allocation for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication.

16. A method for use in a radio node of a plurality of radio nodes of a cellular network, each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes participating in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node and at least one respective low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node, the method comprising:obtaining, from a management node of the cellular network, information on a resource allocation for use by the radio node for the ambient wireless communication, wherein the resource allocation is based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:providing, to a management node of the cellular network, a report indicative of a number of the low-power wireless devices in communication reach of the radio node.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the report is further indicative of an inter-radio-node transmission signal level at the radio node.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the report is further indicative of an identifier of the radio node.

20. A management node of a cellular network, wherein the cellular network includes a plurality of radio nodes, wherein each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes participates in an ambient wireless communication between the respective radio node and at least one respective low-power wireless device associated with the respective radio node,wherein the management node comprises compute circuitry configured to:SYP356909W001provide, to each radio node of the plurality of radio nodes, information on a respective resource allocation for use by the respective radio node for the ambient wireless communication,wherein the resource allocations are based on a deployment of the plurality of radio nodes and the low-power wireless devices.

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