CN110178324B - Synchronization method based on synchronization signal blocks in new radio systems, next generation node-B and user equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

Embodiments of a next generation node-b (gnb), User Equipment (UE), and methods for communication are generally described herein. The gNB may transmit a Synchronization Signal (SS) block, the SS block comprising: primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). The PBCH may include an SS block index indicating a time location of the SS block within the radio frame. The SS block index may be based on the summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted, and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted relative to a plurality of slots of a radio frame.

Description

Synchronization method based on synchronization signal blocks in new radio systems, next generation node-B and user equipment

Priority declaration

Priority of U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 62/455,229 filed on 6.2.2017 and U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 62/455,405 filed on 6.2.2017, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, are claimed.

Technical Field

Embodiments relate to wireless communications. Some embodiments relate to wireless networks including 3GPP (third generation partnership project) networks, 3GPP LTE (long term evolution) networks, and 3GPP LTE-a (LTE-advanced) networks. Some embodiments relate to fifth generation (5G) networks. Some embodiments relate to a New Radio (NR) network. Some embodiments relate to the use of Synchronization Signal (SS) blocks. Some embodiments relate to synchronization.

Background

Base stations and mobile devices operating in a cellular network may exchange data. Various techniques may be used to improve capacity and/or performance, including in some cases communication in accordance with New Radio (NR) techniques. In an example, a mobile device can synchronize with a base station by receiving one or more synchronization signals. Some operations may be challenging, such as monitoring for synchronization signals and detecting synchronization signals. For example, such operations may in some cases result in a reduction in battery life of the mobile device, such as when the mobile device remains in a monitoring mode for a relatively long period of time. Accordingly, there is a general need for methods and systems to perform synchronization-related operations in these and other scenarios.

Disclosure of Invention

Example embodiments of the present disclosure generally provide a solution for communication.

According to a first aspect, an apparatus of a base station is provided. The device comprises: a memory and a processing circuit. The processing circuitry is configured to: a Synchronization Signal (SS) block is encoded for transmission. The SS block includes: primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). The PBCH includes an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame. The radio frame includes a plurality of time slots, the time slots configured per time slot for a plurality of SS blocks. The SS block index is based on a summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted, and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame. The memory is configured to store the SS block.

According to a second aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores instructions for execution by one or more processors to perform operations for communication by a base station. The operations to configure the one or more processors to: encoding for inclusion in a Synchronization Signal (SS) block: primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). The PBCH includes an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame; and mapping the PSS, the SSS, and the PBCH for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission in an allocation of symbol periods for the SS blocks, the PSS being mapped to one of the allocated symbol periods, and at least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS being multiplexed in one of the other allocated symbol periods.

According to a third aspect, an apparatus of a User Equipment (UE) is provided. The device comprises: a memory and a processing circuit. The processing circuitry is configured to: detecting a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) of a Synchronization Signal (SS) block or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS) of the SS block, the SS block being received from a base station; determining a start time of the SS block based on the PSS or the SSS; decoding a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the SS block based at least in part on the start time; determining a time location of the SS block within a radio frame based at least in part on an SS block index included in the PBCH. The radio frame includes a plurality of time slots. The time slots are configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot. The SS block index is based on a summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is received, and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of a slot in which the SS block is received relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame. The memory is configured to store the SS block index.

It should be understood that this summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description.

Drawings

Fig. 1A is a functional diagram of an example network, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 1B is a functional diagram of another example network, in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an example machine in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a user device in accordance with some aspects;

fig. 4 illustrates a base station in accordance with some aspects;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example communication circuit according to some aspects;

fig. 6 illustrates an example of a radio frame structure in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 7A and 7B illustrate example frequency resources in accordance with some embodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates operations of a communication method in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 9 illustrates operations of another communication method in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 10 illustrates an example format for a Synchronization Signal (SS) block in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 11 illustrates an example arrangement of time and frequency resources for a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), in accordance with some embodiments;

figure 12 illustrates additional example arrangements of time and frequency resources for PSS, SSS and PBCH, in accordance with some embodiments;

figure 13 illustrates additional example arrangements of time and frequency resources for PSS, SSS and PBCH, in accordance with some embodiments;

figure 14 illustrates additional example arrangements of time and frequency resources for PSS, SSS and PBCH, in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 15 illustrates an example arrangement of time resources for a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), SS blocks and a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH), in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 16 illustrates another example arrangement of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 17 illustrates additional example arrangements of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 18 illustrates additional example arrangements of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 19 illustrates additional example arrangements of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments;

fig. 20 illustrates additional example arrangements of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments; and

fig. 21 illustrates additional example arrangements of time resources for PDCCH, SS blocks and PUCCH in accordance with some embodiments.

Detailed Description

The following description and the drawings sufficiently illustrate specific embodiments to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may incorporate structural, logical, electrical, process, and other changes. Portions and features of some embodiments may be included in, or substituted for, those of others. Embodiments set forth in the claims encompass all available equivalents of those claims.

Fig. 1A is a functional diagram of an example network, in accordance with some embodiments. Fig. 1B is a functional diagram of another example network, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, network 100 may be a third generation partnership project (3GPP) network. In some embodiments, network 150 may be a 3GPP network. In a non-limiting example, the network 150 may be a New Radio (NR) network. It should be noted, however, that embodiments are not limited to the use of 3GPP networks, as other networks may be used in some embodiments. As an example, a fifth generation (5G) network may be used in some cases. As another example, a New Radio (NR) network may be used in some cases. As another example, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) may be used in some cases. However, embodiments are not limited to these example networks, as other networks may be used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the network may include one or more of the components shown in fig. 1A. Some embodiments may not necessarily include all of the components shown in fig. 1A, and some embodiments may include additional components not shown in fig. 1A. In some embodiments, the network may include one or more of the components shown in FIG. 1B. Some embodiments may not necessarily include all of the components shown in fig. 1B, and some embodiments may include additional components not shown in fig. 1B. In some embodiments, the network may include one or more components shown in FIG. 1A and one or more components shown in FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, the network may include one or more of the components shown in FIG. 1A, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 1B, and one or more additional components.

The network 100 may include a Radio Access Network (RAN)101 and a core network 120 (e.g., shown as an Evolved Packet Core (EPC)) coupled together by an S1 interface 115. For convenience and brevity, only a portion of the core network 120 and the RAN 101 are shown. In a non-limiting example, the RAN 101 may be an evolved universal terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN). In another non-limiting example, RAN 101 may include one or more components of a New Radio (NR) network. In another non-limiting example, RAN 101 may include one or more components of an E-UTRAN and one or more components of another network (including but not limited to NR networks).

The core network 120 may include a Mobility Management Entity (MME)122, a serving gateway (serving GW)124, and a packet data network gateway (PDN GW) 126. In some embodiments, the network 100 may include (and/or support) one or more evolved node bs (enbs) 104 (which may operate as base stations) for communicating with User Equipment (UE) 102. In some embodiments, the enbs 104 may include a macro eNB and a Low Power (LP) eNB.

In some embodiments, the network 100 may include (and/or support) one or more next Generation Node-bs (gnbs) 105. In some embodiments, one or more enbs 104 may be configured to operate as a gNB 105. Embodiments are not limited to the number of enbs 104 shown in fig. 1A or to the number of gnbs 105 shown in fig. 1A. In some embodiments, the network 100 may not necessarily include an eNB 104. Embodiments are also not limited to the connection of components shown in FIG. 1A.

It should be noted that references herein to eNB 104 or to gNB 105 are not limiting. In some embodiments, one or more operations, methods, and/or techniques, such as those described herein, may be practiced by base station components (and/or other components) including, but not limited to, the gNB 105, the eNB 104, a serving cell, a Transmit Receive Point (TRP), and/or other components. In some embodiments, the base station components may be configured to operate in accordance with New Radio (NR) protocols and/or NR standards, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the base station components may be configured to operate in accordance with fifth generation (5G) protocols and/or 5G standards, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, one or more of the UE 102 and/or eNB 104 may be configured to operate in accordance with NR protocols and/or NR techniques. As part of the description herein, references to UE 102, eNB 104, and/or gNB 105 are not limiting. For example, the description of one or more operations, techniques, and/or methods practiced by the gNB 105 is not limiting. In some embodiments, one or more of those operations, techniques, and/or methods may be practiced by the eNB 104 and/or other base station components.

In some embodiments, UE 102 may transmit signals (data, control, and/or other signals) to gNB 105 and may receive signals (data, control, and/or other signals) from gNB 105. In some embodiments, the UE 102 may transmit signals (data, control, and/or other signals) to the eNB 104 and may receive signals (data, control, and/or other signals) from the eNB 104. These embodiments will be described in more detail below.

The MME 122 is functionally similar to the control plane of a conventional Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN). The MME 122 manages mobility aspects such as gateway selection and tracking area list management in access. The serving GW 124 terminates the interface towards the RAN 101 and routes data packets between the RAN 101 and the core network 120. In addition, it may be a local mobility anchor for inter-eNB handover and may also provide an anchor for inter-3 GPP mobility. Other responsibilities may include lawful interception, charging, and some policy enforcement. The serving GW 124 and MME 122 may be implemented in one physical node or separate physical nodes. The PDN GW 126 terminates the SGi interface towards the Packet Data Network (PDN). The PDN GW 126 routes data packets between the EPC 120 and the external PDN, and may be a key node for policy enforcement and charging data collection. It may also provide non-LTE access to the anchor point for mobility. The external PDN may be any kind of IP network as well as IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) domain. The PDN GW 126 and serving GW 124 may be implemented in one physical node or separate physical nodes.

In some embodiments, the eNB 104 (macro and micro) terminates the air interface protocol and may be the first point of contact for the UE 102. In some embodiments, the enbs 104 may perform various logical functions of the network 100, including but not limited to RNCs (radio network controller functions) such as radio bearer management, uplink and downlink dynamic radio resource management and data packet scheduling, and mobility management.

In some embodiments, the UE 102 may be configured to communicate Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexed (OFDM) communication signals with the eNB 104 and/or the gNB 105 over a multicarrier communication channel in accordance with an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) communication technique. In some embodiments, eNB 104 and/or gNB 105 may be configured to communicate OFDM communication signals with UE 102 over a multicarrier communication channel in accordance with an OFDMA communication technique. The OFDM signal may include a plurality of orthogonal subcarriers.

S1 interface 115 is an interface that separates RAN 101 and EPC 120. It can be divided into two parts: S1-U, which carries traffic data between eNB 104 and serving GW 124; and S1-MME, which is the signaling interface between eNB 104 and MME 122. The X2 interface is the interface between enbs 104. The X2 interface includes two parts: X2-C and X2-U. X2-C is the control plane interface between eNBs 104, whereas X2-U is the user plane interface between eNBs 104.

In some embodiments, similar functionality and/or connections described for eNB 104 may be used for the gNB 105, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In a non-limiting example, the S1 interface 115 (and/or similar interfaces) may be divided into two parts: S1-U, which carries traffic data between the gNB 105 and the serving GW 124; and S1-MME, which is the signaling interface between the gNB 104 and MME 122. The X2 interface (and/or similar interfaces) may enable communication between enbs 104, gNB 105, and/or eNB 104 and gNB 105.

In the case of cellular networks, LP cells are typically used to extend coverage to indoor areas where outdoor signals do not reach well, or to add network capacity in areas with very dense telephone usage (such as train stations). As used herein, the term Low Power (LP) eNB refers to any suitable relatively low power eNB for implementing a narrower cell (narrower than a macro cell), such as a femto cell, pico cell, or micro cell. Femtocell enbs are typically provided by mobile network operators to their residential or business customers. Femto cells are typically the size of a residential gateway or smaller and are typically connected to a subscriber's broadband line. Once plugged in, the femto cell connects to the mobile operator's mobile network and provides additional coverage for the residential femto cell, typically 30-50 meters. Thus, the LP eNB may be a femto cell eNB as it is coupled through the PDN GW 126. Similarly, a picocell is a wireless communication system that typically covers a small area, such as in a building (office, mall, train station, etc.) or more recently on an airplane. A picocell eNB may generally connect through its Base Station Controller (BSC) functionality to another eNB such as a macro eNB via an X2 link. Thus, the LP eNB may be implemented with a picocell eNB because it is coupled to a macro eNB via an X2 interface. A pico cell eNB or other LP eNB may incorporate some or all of the functionality of a macro eNB. In some cases, this may be referred to as an access point base station or an enterprise femtocell. In some embodiments, various types of gnbs 105 may be used, including but not limited to one or more of the eNB types described above.

In some embodiments, network 150 may include one or more components configured to operate in accordance with one or more 3GPP standards, including but not limited to the NR standard. The network 150 shown in fig. 1B may include a next generation RAN (NG-RAN)155, which may include one or more gnbs 105. In some embodiments, the network 150 may include an E-UTRAN 160, which may include one or more eNBs. E-UTRAN 160 may be similar to RAN 101 described herein, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, network 150 may include MME 165. MME 165 may be similar to MME 122 described herein, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. MME 165 may perform one or more operations or functionalities similar to those described herein with respect to MME 122, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the network 150 may include an SGW 170. SGW 170 may be similar to SGW 124 described herein, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. SGW 170 may perform one or more operations or functionalities similar to those described herein with respect to SGW 124, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the network 150 may include component(s) and/or module(s) for functionality for User Plane Functionality (UPF) and user plane functionality for PGW (PGW-U), as indicated by 175. In some embodiments, the network 150 may include component(s) and/or module(s) for functionality for a Session Management Function (SMF) and control plane functionality for a PGW (PGW-C), as indicated by 180. In some embodiments, the component(s) and/or module(s) indicated by 175 and/or 180 may be similar to PGW 126 described herein, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. Component(s) and/or module(s) indicated by 175 and/or 180 may perform one or more operations or functionalities similar to those described herein with respect to PGW 126, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. One or both of components 170, 172 may perform at least a portion of the functionality described herein for PGW 126, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

Embodiments are not limited to the number or type of components shown in FIG. 1B. Embodiments are also not limited to the connection of components shown in FIG. 1B.

In some embodiments, the downlink resource grid may be used for downlink transmissions from the eNB 104 to the UE 102, whereas uplink transmissions from the UE 102 to the eNB 104 may utilize similar techniques. In some embodiments, the downlink resource grid may be used for downlink transmissions from the gNB 105 to the UE 102, however uplink transmissions from the UE 102 to the gNB 105 may utilize similar techniques. The grid may be a time-frequency grid, referred to as a resource grid or time-frequency resource grid, which is a physical resource in the downlink in each slot. Such a time-frequency plane representation is a common practice of OFDM systems, which makes it intuitive for radio resource allocation. Each column and each row of the resource grid corresponds to one OFDM symbol and one OFDM subcarrier, respectively. The duration of the resource grid in the time domain corresponds to one time slot in a radio frame. The smallest time-frequency unit in the resource grid is denoted as a Resource Element (RE). There are several different physical downlink channels that are conveyed using such resource blocks. Of particular relevance to the present disclosure, two of these physical downlink channels are a physical downlink shared channel and a physical downlink control channel.

As used herein, the term "circuitry" may refer to, may be part of, or may include the following: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and/or memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality. In some embodiments, the circuitry may be implemented in, or functions associated with, one or more software or firmware modules. In some embodiments, the circuitry may comprise logic operable, at least in part, in hardware. The embodiments described herein may be implemented into a system using any suitably configured hardware and/or software.

Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of an example machine in accordance with some embodiments. The machine 200 is an example machine on which any one or more of the techniques and/or methodologies discussed herein may be implemented. In alternative embodiments, the machine 200 may operate as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine 200 may operate in the capacity of a server machine, a client machine, or both, in server-client network environments. In an example, the machine 200 may operate as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (P2P) (or other distributed) network environment. The machine 200 may be a UE 102, an eNB 104, a gNB 105, an Access Point (AP), a Station (STA), a user, a device, a mobile device, a base station, a Personal Computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a smartphone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, such as cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), other computer cluster configurations.

Examples as described herein may include, or may operate on, logic or a number of components, modules, or mechanisms. A module is a tangible entity (e.g., hardware) capable of performing specified operations and may be configured or arranged in a certain manner. In an example, a circuit may be arranged in a specified manner as a module (e.g., internally or with respect to an external entity such as other circuits). In an example, all or part of one or more computer systems (e.g., a standalone client or server computer system) or one or more hardware processors may be configured by firmware or software (e.g., instructions, application portions, or applications) to operate as a module to perform specified operations. In an example, the software may reside on a machine-readable medium. In an example, the software, when executed by the underlying hardware of the module, causes the hardware to perform the specified operations.

Thus, the term "module" is understood to encompass a tangible entity, i.e., an entity that is physically constructed, specifically configured (e.g., hardwired), or temporarily (e.g., temporarily) configured (e.g., programmed) to operate in a specified manner or to perform some or all of any of the operations described herein. Considering the example of modules being temporarily configured, each module need not be instantiated at any one time. For example, where the modules include a general purpose hardware processor configured using software, the general purpose hardware processor may be configured at different times as respective different modules. The software may configure the hardware processor accordingly, e.g., to constitute a particular module at one time and to constitute different modules at different times.

The machine (e.g., computer system) 200 may include a hardware processor 202 (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory 204, and a static memory 206, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an interconnection link (e.g., bus) 208. The machine 200 may further include a display unit 210, an alphanumeric input device 212 (e.g., a keyboard), and a User Interface (UI) navigation device 214 (e.g., a mouse). In an example, the display unit 210, the input device 212, and the UI navigation device 214 may be a touch screen display. The machine 200 may additionally include a storage device (e.g., drive unit) 216, a signal generation device 218 (e.g., a speaker), a network interface device 220, and one or more sensors 221, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, compass, accelerometer, or other sensor. The machine 200 may include an output controller 228, such as a serial (e.g., Universal Serial Bus (USB)), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., Infrared (IR), Near Field Communication (NFC), etc.) connection for communicating with or controlling one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a printer, card reader, etc.).

The storage device 216 may include a machine-readable medium 222 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures or instructions 224 (e.g., software), the one or more sets of data structures or instructions 224 embodying or being utilized by any one or more of the techniques or functions described herein. The instructions 224 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 204, within static memory 206, or within the hardware processor 202 during execution thereof by the machine 200. In an example, one or any combination of the hardware processor 202, the main memory 204, the static memory 206, or the storage device 216 may constitute machine-readable media. In some embodiments, the machine-readable medium may be or may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some embodiments, the machine-readable medium may be or may include a computer-readable storage medium.

While the machine-readable medium 222 is illustrated as a single medium, the term "machine-readable medium" can include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) configured to store the one or more instructions 224. The term "machine-readable medium" may include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying data structures for execution by the machine 200 and that cause the machine 200 to perform any one or more of the techniques of this disclosure or that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying data structures used by or associated with such instructions. Non-limiting examples of machine readable media may include solid-state memory and optical and magnetic media. Specific examples of the machine-readable medium may include: non-volatile memories such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices; magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; random Access Memory (RAM); and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. In some examples, the machine-readable medium may include a non-transitory machine-readable medium. In some examples, a machine-readable medium may include a machine-readable medium that is not a transitory propagating signal.

Many transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol) may be further utilizedAny of conference (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), etc.) sends or receives instructions 224 over a communication network 226 using a transmission medium via the network interface device 220. Example communication networks can include a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), a packet data network (e.g., the internet), a mobile telephone network (e.g., a cellular network), a Plain Old Telephone (POTS) network, and a wireless data network (e.g., referred to as

Of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of standards, referred to as

IEEE 802.16 family of standards), IEEE 802.15.4 family of standards, Long Term Evolution (LTE) family of standards, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) family of standards, peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, and the like. In an example, the network interface device 220 may include one or more physical jacks (e.g., ethernet, coaxial, or telephone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the communication network 226. In an example, the network interface device 220 may include multiple antennas to communicate wirelessly using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. In some examples, the network interface device 220 may communicate wirelessly using multi-user MIMO techniques. The term "transmission medium" shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 200, and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible medium to facilitate communication of such software.

Fig. 3 illustrates a user equipment in accordance with some aspects. In some embodiments, the user device 300 may be a mobile device. In some embodiments, the user equipment 300 may be or may be configured to operate as User Equipment (UE). In some embodiments, the user equipment 300 may be arranged to operate in accordance with a New Radio (NR) protocol. In some embodiments, the user equipment 300 may be arranged to operate in accordance with a third generation partnership protocol (3GPP) protocol. In some embodiments, the user equipment 300 may be adapted for use as the UE 102 as depicted in fig. 1. It should be noted that in some embodiments, a UE, an apparatus of a UE, a user equipment, or an apparatus of a user equipment may include one or more components shown in one or more of fig. 2, 3, and 5. In some embodiments, such a UE, user equipment, and/or apparatus may include one or more additional components.

In some aspects, the user device 300 may include an application processor 305, a baseband processor 310 (also referred to as a baseband module), a Radio Front End Module (RFEM)315, a memory 320, a connection module 325, a Near Field Communication (NFC) controller 330, an audio driver 335, a camera driver 340, a touch screen 345, a display driver 350, a sensor 355, a removable memory 360, a Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC)365, and a smart battery 370. In some aspects, the user equipment 300 may be User Equipment (UE).

In some aspects, the application processor 305 may include, for example, one or more CPU cores and one or more of the following: a cache memory, a low dropout voltage regulator (LDO), an interrupt controller, a serial interface such as a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), an inter-integrated circuit (I2C), or a universal programmable serial interface module, a Real Time Clock (RTC), a timer counter including a bay and watchdog timer, a universal Input Output (IO), a memory card controller such as a secure digital/multimedia card (SD/MMC) or the like, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Mobile Industry Processor Interface (MIPI) interface, and a Joint Test Access Group (JTAG) test access port.

In some aspects, the baseband module 310 may be implemented, for example, as a solder-in substrate including one or more integrated circuits, a single packaged integrated circuit soldered to a main circuit board, and/or a multi-chip module containing two or more integrated circuits.

Fig. 4 illustrates a base station in accordance with some aspects. In some embodiments, the base station 400 may be or may be configured to operate as an evolved node b (enb). In some embodiments, the base station 400 may be or may be configured to operate as a next generation node-b (gnb). In some embodiments, the base station 400 may be arranged to operate in accordance with a New Radio (NR) protocol. In some embodiments, the base station 400 may be arranged to operate in accordance with third generation partnership protocol (3GPP) protocols. It should be noted that in some embodiments, base station 400 may be a fixed, non-mobile device. In some embodiments, the base station 400 may be adapted to function as an eNB 104 as depicted in fig. 1. In some embodiments, base station 400 may be adapted for use as a gNB 105 as depicted in fig. 1. It should be noted that in some embodiments, an eNB, an apparatus of an eNB, a gNB, an apparatus of a gNB, a base station, and/or an apparatus of a base station may include one or more of the components shown in one or more of fig. 2, 4, and 5. In some embodiments, such an eNB, gNB, base station, and/or apparatus may include one or more additional components.

Fig. 4 illustrates a base station or infrastructure equipment radio head 400 in accordance with an aspect. Base station 400 may include one or more of the following: an application processor 405, a baseband module 410, one or more radio front end modules 415, a memory 420, power management circuitry 425, power tee circuitry 430, a network controller 435, a network interface connector 440, a satellite navigation receiver module 445, and a user interface 450. In some aspects, the base station 400 may be an evolved node b (enb) that may be arranged to operate in accordance with a 3GPP protocol, a New Radio (NR) protocol, and/or a fifth generation (5G) protocol. In some aspects, the base station 400 may be a next generation node-b (gnb) that may be arranged to operate in accordance with a 3GPP protocol, a New Radio (NR) protocol, and/or a fifth generation (5G) protocol.

In some aspects, the application processor 405 may include one or more CPU cores and one or more of the following: cache memory, low dropout voltage regulator (LDO), interrupt controller, serial interface such as SPI, I2C, or universal programmable serial interface module, Real Time Clock (RTC), timer counter including interval and watchdog timers, universal IO, memory card controller such as SD/MMC or the like, USB interface, MIPI interface, and Joint Test Access Group (JTAG) test access port.

In some aspects, baseband processor 410 may be implemented, for example, as a solder-in substrate including one or more integrated circuits, a single packaged integrated circuit soldered to a main circuit board, or a multi-chip module containing two or more integrated circuits.

In some aspects, memory 420 may include one or more of the following: volatile memory including Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and/or Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM); and non-volatile memory (NVM) including high speed electrically erasable memory (commonly referred to as flash memory), phase change random access memory (PRAM), Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM), and/or three-dimensional cross-point memory. The memory 420 may be implemented as one or more of a solder-in packaged integrated circuit, a socket-type memory module, and a plug-in memory card.

In some aspects, power management integrated circuit 425 may include one or more of the following: a voltage regulator, a surge protector, a power warning detection circuit, and one or more backup power sources such as a battery or a capacitor. The power warning detection circuit may detect one or more of power down (undervoltage) and surge (overvoltage) conditions.

In some aspects, power supply tee 430 may provide power drawn from a network cable that provides both power and data connections to base station 400 using a single cable. In some aspects, the network controller 435 may provide connectivity to a network using a standard network interface protocol, such as ethernet. The network connection may be provided using a physical connection, which is one of electrical (commonly referred to as a copper interconnect), optical, or wireless.

In some aspects, the satellite navigation receiver module 445 may include circuitry for receiving and decoding signals transmitted by one or more navigation satellite constellations such as Global Positioning System (GPS), Globalnaya Navigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya sitema (GLONASS, global navigation satellite system), galileo, and/or beidou. Receiver 445 may provide data to application processor 405, which may include one or more of location data or time data. The application processor 405 may use the time data to synchronize operations with other radio base stations. In some aspects, the user interface 450 may include one or more of a physical or virtual button (such as a reset button), one or more indicators such as Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), and a display screen.

Fig. 5 illustrates an example communication circuit in accordance with some aspects. The circuits 500 may alternatively be grouped according to function. The components shown in 500 are shown here for illustrative purposes and may include other components not shown here in fig. 5. In some aspects, communications circuitry 500 may be used for millimeter wave communications, but aspects are not limited to millimeter wave communications. In some aspects, communications at any suitable frequency may be performed by communications circuitry 500.

It should be noted that in some aspects devices (such as UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices) may include one or more components of communication circuitry 500.

The communications circuitry 500 may include protocol processing circuitry 505 that may implement one or more of Medium Access Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), Radio Resource Control (RRC), and non-access stratum (NAS) functionality. The protocol processing circuit 505 may include one or more processing cores (not shown) for executing instructions and one or more memory structures (not shown) for storing program and data information.

The communication circuit 500 may further include digital baseband circuitry 510 that may implement physical layer (PHY) functions including one or more of: hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) functionality, scrambling and/or descrambling, encoding and/or decoding, layer mapping and/or demapping, modulation symbol mapping, received symbol and/or bit metric determination, multi-antenna port precoding and/or decoding, which may include one or more of space-time, space-frequency, or spatial coding, reference signal generation and/or detection, preamble sequence generation and/or decoding, synchronization sequence generation and/or detection, control channel signal blind decoding, and other related functionality.

The communication circuitry 500 may further include transmit circuitry 515, receive circuitry 520, and/or antenna array circuitry 530. The communication circuit 500 may further include a Radio Frequency (RF) circuit 525. In one aspect of the disclosure, the RF circuitry 525 may include multiple parallel RF chains for one or more of transmit or receive functions, each RF chain connected to one or more antennas of the antenna array 530.

In one aspect of the disclosure, the protocol processing circuitry 505 may include one or more instances of control circuitry (not shown) for providing control functionality for one or more of the digital baseband circuitry 510, the transmit circuitry 515, the receive circuitry 520, and/or the radio frequency circuitry 525.

In some embodiments, the processing circuitry may perform one or more operations described herein and/or other operation(s). In a non-limiting example, the processing circuitry may include one or more components such as: processor 202, application processor 305, baseband module 310, application processor 405, baseband module 410, protocol processing circuitry 505, digital baseband circuitry 510, similar component(s), and/or other component(s).

In some embodiments, a transceiver may transmit one or more elements (including but not limited to those described herein) and/or receive one or more elements (including but not limited to those described herein). In a non-limiting example, the transceiver may include one or more components such as: radio front-end module 315, radio front-end module 415, transmit circuitry 515, receive circuitry 520, radio frequency circuitry 525, similar component(s), and/or other component(s).

The one or more antennas (such as 230, 312, 412, 530, and/or other antennas) may include one or more directional or omnidirectional antennas, including, for example, dipole antennas, monopole antennas, patch antennas, loop antennas, microstrip antennas or other types of antennas suitable for transmission of RF signals. In some multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) embodiments, one or more of the antennas, such as 230, 312, 412, 530 and/or others, may be effectively separated to take advantage of spatial diversity and different channel characteristics that may result.

In some embodiments, the UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user device 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may be a mobile device and/or a portable wireless communication device, such as a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a laptop or portable computer with wireless communication capability, a web tablet, a wireless telephone, a smartphone, a wireless headset, a pager, an instant messaging device, a digital camera, an access point, a television, a wearable device such as a medical device (e.g., a heart rate monitor, a blood pressure monitor, etc.), or other device that may receive and/or transmit information wirelessly. In some embodiments, UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may be configured to operate in accordance with 3GPP standards, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may be configured to operate in accordance with the New Radio (NR) standard, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may be configured to operate in accordance with other protocols or standards, including IEEE 802.11 or other IEEE standards. In some embodiments, the UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may include one or more of a keypad, a display, a non-volatile memory port, multiple antennas, a graphics processor, an application processor, speakers, and other mobile device elements. The display may be an LCD screen including a touch screen.

Although the UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, user equipment 300, base station 400, machine 200, and/or other devices described herein may each be illustrated as having several separate functional elements, one or more of the functional elements may be combined and may be implemented by combinations of software-configured elements, such as processing elements including Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), and/or other hardware elements. For example, some elements may comprise one or more microprocessors, DSPs, Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Radio Frequency Integrated Circuits (RFICs), and combinations of various hardware and logic circuitry for performing at least the functions described herein. In some embodiments, a functional element may refer to one or more processes operating on one or more processing elements.

Embodiments may be implemented in one or a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. Embodiments may also be implemented as instructions stored on a computer-readable storage device, which may be read and executed by at least one processor to perform the operations described herein. A computer-readable storage device may include any non-transitory mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer). For example, a computer-readable storage device may include Read Only Memory (ROM), Random Access Memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and other storage devices and media. Some embodiments may include one or more processors and may be configured with instructions stored on a computer-readable storage device.

It should be noted that in some embodiments, the apparatus used by UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, machine 200, user equipment 300, and/or base station 400 may include various components shown in fig. 2-5. Thus, the techniques and operations described herein relating to the UE 102 may be applicable to the UE's apparatus. Additionally, the techniques and operations described herein relating to the eNB 104 may be applicable to apparatuses of an eNB. Additionally, the techniques and operations described herein relating to the gNB 105 may be applicable to devices of the gNB.

Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a radio frame structure in accordance with some embodiments. Fig. 7A and 7B illustrate example frequency resources in accordance with some embodiments. It should be noted that the examples shown in fig. 6, 7A, and 7B may in some cases illustrate some or all of the concepts and technologies described herein, but embodiments are not limited by these examples. For example, embodiments are not limited by the name, number, type, size, ordering, arrangement, and/or other aspects of the time resources, symbol periods, frequency resources, PRBs, and other elements as shown in fig. 6, 7A, and 7B. Although some of the elements shown in the examples of fig. 6, 7A, and 7B may be included in the 3GPP LTE standard, the 5G standard, the NR standard, and/or other standards, embodiments are not limited to the use of such elements included in the standards.

An example of a radio frame structure that may be used in some aspects is shown in fig. 6. In this example, the radio frame 600 has a duration of 10 ms. The radio frame 600 is divided into time slots 602, each time slot having a duration of 0.5ms and being numbered from 0 to 19. Additionally, each pair of adjacent time slots 602 numbered 2i and 2i +1 (where i is an integer) is referred to as a subframe 601.

In some aspects using the radio frame format of fig. 6, each subframe 601 may include a combination of one or more of downlink control information, downlink data information, uplink control information, and uplink data information. The combination of information type and direction may be selected independently for each subframe 602.

Fig. 7A and 7B. In some aspects, a sub-component of a transmission signal consisting of one subcarrier in the frequency domain and one symbol interval in the time domain may be referred to as a resource element. Resource elements may be depicted in a grid format as shown in fig. 7A and 7B.

In some aspects illustrated in fig. 7A, resource elements may be grouped into rectangular resource blocks 700, the rectangular resource blocks 700 being made up of 12 subcarriers in the frequency domain and P symbols in the time domain, where P may correspond to the number of symbols contained in one slot, and may be 6, 7, or any other suitable number of symbols.

In some alternative aspects illustrated in fig. 7B, resource elements may be grouped into resource blocks 700, the resource blocks 700 being made up of 12 subcarriers in the frequency domain (as indicated by 702) and one symbol in the time domain. In the depictions of fig. 7A and 7B, each resource element 705 may be indexed as (k, l), where k is the index number of the subcarriers, in the range 0 to N.M-1 (as indicated by 703), where N is the number of subcarriers in a resource block, and M is the number of resource blocks spanning the component carriers in the frequency domain.

In accordance with some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit a Synchronization Signal (SS) block comprising: primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). The PBCH may include an SS block index indicating a time location of the SS block within the radio frame. A radio frame may include a plurality of time slots. The time slots may be configured for multiple SS blocks by time slot. The SS block index may be based on the summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted, and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted relative to a plurality of slots of a radio frame. These embodiments are described in more detail below.

Fig. 8 illustrates operations of a communication method in accordance with some embodiments. It is important to note that embodiments of method 800 may include additional or even fewer operations or processes than those illustrated in fig. 8. Additionally, embodiments of method 800 are not necessarily limited to the timing (chronologic) order shown in fig. 8. In describing the method 800, reference may be made to one or more of fig. 1A, 1B, 2-6, 7A, 7B, and 10-21, although it is understood that the method 800 may be practiced with any other suitable systems, interfaces, and components.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may perform one or more operations of method 800, but embodiments are not limited to performance of method 800 and/or operations thereof by the gNB 105. In some embodiments, an eNB 104 configured to operate as a gNB 105 may perform one or more operations of method 800 (and/or similar operations). In some embodiments, the eNB 104 may perform one or more operations of the method 800 (and/or similar operations). In some embodiments, the UE 102 may perform one or more operations of the method 800 (and/or similar operations). Thus, although reference may be made in the description herein to one or more operations of method 800 being performed by the gNB 105, it should be understood that in some embodiments, eNB 104 and/or UE 102 may perform one or more of the same operations. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, the eNB 104 and/or the UE 102 may perform one or more operations similar to one or more operations of the method 800. It should also be understood that in some embodiments, the eNB 104 and/or the UE 102 may perform one or more operations that are reciprocal to one or more operations of the method 800.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may be arranged to operate in accordance with New Radio (NR) standards and/or protocols, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect. Although the method 800 and other methods described herein may involve enbs 104, gnbs 105, or UEs 102 operating in accordance with 3GPP standards, 5G standards, NR standards, and/or other standards, embodiments of those methods are not limited to only those enbs 104, gnbs 105, or UEs 102 and may also be practiced on other devices, such as Wi-Fi Access Points (APs) or user Stations (STAs). Additionally, method 800 and other methods described herein may be practiced by wireless devices configured to operate in other suitable types of wireless communication systems, including systems configured to operate in accordance with various IEEE standards, such as IEEE 802.11. The method 800 may also be applicable to an apparatus of the UE 102, an apparatus of the eNB 104, an apparatus of the gNB 105, and/or an apparatus of another device described above.

It should also be noted that embodiments are not limited by reference herein (e.g., in the description of methods 800, 900 and/or other descriptions herein) to transmission, reception, and/or exchange of elements such as frames, messages, requests, indicators, signals, or other elements. In some embodiments, such elements may be generated, encoded, or otherwise processed for transmission by processing circuitry (such as by a baseband processor included in the processing circuitry). In some cases, the transmission may be performed by a transceiver or other component. In some embodiments, such elements may be decoded, detected, or otherwise processed by processing circuitry (such as by a baseband processor). In some cases, the element may be received by a transceiver or other component. In some embodiments, the processing circuitry and the transceiver may be included in the same device. However, in some embodiments, the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect, as the transceiver may be separate from the apparatus including the processing circuitry.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may be arranged to operate in accordance with New Radio (NR) protocols and/or standards, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

At operation 805, the gNB 105 may encode one or more elements of the SS block. In some embodiments, the one or more elements may include one or more of: primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). In some embodiments, the SS block may include one or more of the following: PSS, SSS, PBCH, and/or other element(s).

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may encode one or more elements for multiple SS blocks of a timeslot, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may encode one or more elements for one or more time slots of a radio frame, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may encode one or more elements for multiple SS blocks of a radio frame, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, a radio frame may include a plurality of time slots. In some embodiments, the time slots may be configured for multiple SS blocks per time slot. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may encode one or more elements for one or more SS blocks of multiple radio frames, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, gNB 105 may encode one or more elements for multiple SS blocks for periodic transmission in multiple radio frames, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. For example, SS blocks may be transmitted at a time location within a radio frame and at the same time location in one or more subsequent radio frames.

In some embodiments, PSS may be based on a cell group of the gNB 105. In a non-limiting example, the cell set of the gNB 105 may be included in the candidate cell set. The predetermined sequence may be mapped to a candidate cell set. The PSS may be based on a predetermined sequence of the cell group corresponding to the gNB 105. For example, a predetermined sequence may be mapped to REs for OFDM transmission. Any suitable number of candidate cell sets (including but not limited to three) may be used.

In some embodiments, the SSS may be based on a cell identifier (cell ID) of the gNB 105 within a cell group. In a non-limiting example, the cell ID of the gNB 105 may be included in the candidate cell ID. The predetermined sequence may be mapped to a candidate cell ID. The SSS may be based on a predetermined sequence corresponding to the cell ID of the gNB 105. For example, a predetermined sequence may be mapped to REs for OFDM transmission. Any suitable number of candidate cell IDs may be used.

In some embodiments, the PBCH may include an SS block index indicating a time location of an SS block within a radio frame. In some embodiments, the PBCH may include a System Frame Number (SFN) indicating an index of a radio frame. In some embodiments, the PBCH includes one or more additional parameters.

In a non-limiting example, the SS block index may be based on the summation of: 1) the SS block is indexed within a time slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted; and 2) the product of the number of SS blocks per slot and the slot index of the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame.

In some embodiments, the intra-slot index may indicate a starting position of the SS block within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted. In a non-limiting example, the starting position may be included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

In some embodiments, the time slots may be configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot according to a predetermined pattern. The allocation per SS block may include a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods. A slot may include a predetermined number of symbol periods. The allocation may start with a predetermined symbol period within the slot.

In a non-limiting example, the allocation per SS block may include four consecutive symbol periods, the slot may include 14 symbol periods, and the number of SS blocks per slot may be two. Embodiments are not limited to these example numbers, as any suitable number may be used. The allocation per SS block may begin with any suitable symbol period. For example, the allocation per SS block may start from the third symbol period of the slot and from the ninth symbol period of the slot, but the embodiments are not limited to these example numbers.

At operation 810, the gNB 105 may map one or more elements of the SS block to symbol periods and Resource Elements (REs). In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may map SS blocks to REs for multiple symbol periods of the OFDM transmission. In some embodiments, the SSS and at least a portion of the PBCH may be multiplexed within the same symbol period.

In a non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may map the SS blocks to a plurality of symbol periods for OFDM transmission. The PSS may be mapped to a first timing symbol period. A portion of the PBCH may be mapped to a second timing symbol period. The SSS may be mapped to a first RE in a third timing symbol period. Another portion of the PBCH may be mapped to a second RE in a third timing symbol period. Another portion of the PBCH may be mapped to a fourth timing symbol period of the plurality of symbol periods.

At operation 815, the gNB 105 may transmit the SS block. At operation 820, the gNB 105 may transmit a plurality of SS blocks.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit multiple SS blocks in a timeslot, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit multiple SS blocks in a slot according to a predetermined pattern of symbol periods. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit one or more SS blocks in multiple time slots, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may send multiple SS blocks in a radio frame, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit one or more SS blocks in multiple radio frames, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may send multiple SS blocks in multiple radio frames in accordance with a periodic transmission, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit multiple SS blocks in a radio frame according to a predetermined pattern of symbol periods and/or time slots.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit the first SS block at a first temporal location of the timeslot. The first SS block may include a first SS block index indicating a first time location. The gNB 105 may transmit a second SS block at a second time position of the same time slot. The second SS block may include a second SS block index indicating a second time location. The gNB 105 may transmit the first SS block in accordance with the first beam. The gNB 105 may transmit the second SS block in accordance with the second beam. Embodiments may be extended to more than two SS blocks. Embodiments may be extended to more than two SS block locations. Embodiments may be extended to more than two beams.

In some embodiments, different predetermined patterns may be used based at least in part on Resource Element (RE) spacing. In a non-limiting example, if the gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission of SS blocks according to RE spacing of 15kHz, the gNB 105 may transmit a plurality of SS blocks in a radio frame according to a first predetermined pattern. If gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission in accordance with a RE spacing of 30kHz, the gNB may transmit a plurality of SS blocks in a radio frame in accordance with a second predetermined pattern. Embodiments are not limited to the number in this example. This example may be extended to two or more RE spacings. This example may be extended to two or more predetermined patterns. This example may be extended to two or more SS blocks.

In some embodiments, different numbers of SS blocks per slot may be used based at least in part on RE spacing. In a non-limiting example, if gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission of SS blocks according to a RE spacing of 15kHz, gNB 105 may transmit a plurality of SS blocks in a radio frame according to a first number of SS blocks per SS slot. If gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission in accordance with the RE spacing of 30kHz, the gNB may transmit a plurality of SS blocks in a radio frame in accordance with the second number of SS blocks per SS slot. Embodiments are not limited to the number in this example. This example may be extended to two or more RE spacings. This example may be extended to two or more numbers of SS blocks per slot.

In some embodiments, one or more parameters may be used based at least in part on RE spacing. Such parameters may include, but are not limited to: a number of SS blocks per slot, a number of SS blocks per radio frame, a number of slots per radio frame, a predetermined pattern of slots, a predetermined pattern of SS blocks, and/or other parameter(s). In a non-limiting example, if the gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission of SS blocks in accordance with RE spacing of 15kHz, the gNB 105 may transmit one or more SS blocks in accordance with a first set of parameter values (which may include one or more of the parameters described above in some cases). If the gNB 105 is configured for OFDM transmission in accordance with a RE spacing of 30kHz, the gNB may transmit one or more SS blocks in accordance with a first set of parameter values (which may include one or more of the parameters described above in some cases). Embodiments are not limited to the number in this example. The embodiments are also not limited to the above parameters.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may encode for inclusion in the SS block: PSS, SSS, and PBCH including an SS block index indicating a time position of an SS block within a radio frame. The gNB 105 may map the PSS, SSs, and PBCH for OFDM transmission in an allocation of symbol periods for SS blocks. The PSS may be mapped to one of the allocated symbol periods. The SSS and at least a portion of the PBCH may be multiplexed in one of the other symbol periods of the allocation.

In a non-limiting example, the allocation may include four consecutive symbol periods. The portion of the PBCH may be a first portion of the PBCH. The gNB 105 may map the PSS to a first RE in the allocated first timing symbol period. The gNB 105 may map the SSS and the first portion of the PBCH to a second RE in the allocated third timing symbol period. The bandwidth of the first RE may be smaller than the aggregated bandwidth of the second RE.

In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may transmit a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) and/or a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH). In some embodiments, the PDCCH may include information related to downlink transmissions. For example, the gNB 105 may send the PDCCH in a time slot, and the PDCCH may include information related to downlink transmissions in the time slot. In some embodiments, additional information may be included.

In some embodiments, the PUCCH may include information related to uplink transmissions. For example, the gNB 105 may transmit the PUCCH in a slot, and the PUCCH may include information related to uplink transmission in the slot. In some embodiments, additional information may be included.

In some embodiments, the PDCCH may be transmitted in one or more symbol periods (including, but not limited to, consecutive symbol periods). In some embodiments, the PUCCH may be transmitted in one or more symbol periods (including, but not limited to, consecutive symbol periods). In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may send multiple PDCCHs in a radio frame, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the gNB 105 may send multiple PDCCHs in a radio frame, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In a non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may send the PDCCH in each slot of a radio frame. In another non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may transmit the PDCCH in each of a plurality of slots of a radio frame. In some cases, the gNB 105 may not necessarily send the PDCCH in all slots of the radio frame. In another non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may transmit the PUCCH in each slot of the radio frame. In another non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may transmit the PUCCH in each of a plurality of slots of a radio frame. In some cases, the gNB 105 may not necessarily transmit the PUCCH in all slots of the radio frame. In another non-limiting example, the gNB 105 may transmit the PDCCH and PUCCH in at least some slots of a radio frame.

One or more of the messages described herein may be included in standards and/or protocols including, but not limited to, third generation partnership project (3GPP), 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE), fourth generation (4G), fifth generation (5G), New Radio (NR), and/or other generation standards and/or protocols. However, the scope of the embodiments is not limited to the use of elements included in the standards.

In some embodiments, the apparatus of the gNB 105 may include a memory. The memory may be configured to store SS blocks. The memory may store one or more other elements and the apparatus may use them to perform one or more operations. An apparatus may comprise processing circuitry that may perform one or more operations, including but not limited to operation(s) of method 800 and/or other methods described herein. The processing circuitry may include a baseband processor. The baseband circuitry and/or the processing circuitry may perform one or more operations described herein, including but not limited to encoding of SS blocks. The apparatus of the gNB 105 may include a transceiver for transmitting SS blocks. The transceiver may send and/or receive other blocks, messages, and/or other elements.

Fig. 9 illustrates operations of another communication method in accordance with some embodiments. Embodiments of method 900 may include additional or even fewer operations or processes than those illustrated in fig. 9, and embodiments of method 900 are not necessarily limited to the timing order shown in fig. 9. In describing the method 900, reference may be made to one or more of the figures described herein, but it should be understood that the method 900 may be practiced with any other suitable systems, interfaces, and components. Additionally, embodiments of method 900 may be applicable to UEs 102, enbs 104, gnbs 105, APs, STAs, and/or other wireless or mobile devices. The method 900 may also be applicable to the UE 102, eNB 104, gNB 105, and/or other devices' apparatus described above.

In some embodiments, the UE 102 may perform one or more operations of the method 900, but the embodiments are not limited to performance of the method 900 and/or its operations by the UE 102. In some embodiments, eNB 104 and/or gNB 105 may perform one or more operations of method 900 (and/or similar operations). Although reference may be made in the description herein to one or more operations of method 900 being performed by UE 102, it should be understood that eNB 104 and/or gNB 105 may perform one or more of the same operations in some embodiments. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, eNB 104 and/or gNB 105 may perform one or more operations similar to one or more operations of method 900. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, eNB 104 and/or gNB 105 may perform one or more operations that are reciprocal to one or more operations of method 900.

In a non-limiting example, operations of method 800 may include transmitting, by the gNB 105, elements (such as frames, blocks, messages, and/or other elements), and operations of method 900 may include receiving, by the UE 102, the same elements (and/or similar elements) from the gNB 105. In some cases, a description of operations and techniques described as part of one of methods 800 and 900 may be related to the other method.

Additionally, the previous discussion of various techniques and concepts may be applicable to method 900 in some cases, including but not limited to SS blocks, PSS, SSs, PBCH, and/or others. Additionally, the examples shown in one or more of the figures may also be applicable in some cases, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In some embodiments, UE 102 may perform one or more operations of method 900, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, UE 102 may be arranged to operate in accordance with a New Radio (NR) protocol and/or standard, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

At operation 905, the UE 102 may detect the PSS for the SS block. At operation 910, the UE 102 may detect SSs for the SS block. The PSS, SSS, and/or SS blocks may be received from the gNB 105, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In a non-limiting example, the PSS may be based, at least in part, on a cell group of the gNB 105. In another non-limiting example, the SSS may be based at least in part on a cell group of the gNB 105.

At operation 915, the UE 102 may determine a start time of an SS block based on the PSS and/or the SSS. At operation 920, the UE 102 may decode a PBCH of the SS block based at least in part on the determined start time. At operation 925, the UE 102 may determine a time location of the SS block within the radio frame based at least in part on the SS block index included in the PBCH.

In some embodiments, a radio frame may include a plurality of time slots. The time slots may be configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot. The SS block index may be based on the summation of: 1) an intra-slot index of an SS block within a slot in which the SS block is received, and 2) a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of a slot in which the SS block is received relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame. The intra-slot index may indicate a starting position of the SS block within a slot in which the SS block is received. The start position may be included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

In some embodiments, the intra-slot index may indicate a starting position of the SS block within a slot in which the SS block is received. The start position may be included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

In some embodiments, the time slots may be configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot according to a predetermined pattern. The allocation per SS block may include a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods. A slot may include a predetermined number of symbol periods. The allocation may start with a predetermined symbol period within the slot. In some embodiments, UE 102 may determine the starting locations of multiple SS blocks.

In a non-limiting example, the allocation per SS block may include four consecutive symbol periods. A slot may include 14 symbol periods. The number of SS blocks per slot may be two. The allocation per SS block may start from the third symbol period of the slot and from the ninth symbol period of the slot. The examples are not limited to the number of examples in this example, as any suitable number may be used.

Fig. 10 illustrates an example format for a Synchronization Signal (SS) block in accordance with some embodiments. Fig. 11-14 illustrate example arrangements of time and frequency resources for a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), in accordance with some embodiments. Fig. 15-21 illustrate example arrangements of time resources for a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), SS blocks, and a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH), in accordance with some embodiments. It should be noted that the examples shown in fig. 10-21 may in some cases illustrate some or all of the concepts and technologies described herein, but embodiments are not limited by the examples. For example, embodiments are not limited by the name, number, type, size, ordering, arrangement, and/or other aspects of operations, messages, frames, blocks, time resources (such as symbol periods and/or others), frequency resources (such as REs and/or others), and other elements as shown in fig. 10-21. Although some of the elements shown in the examples of fig. 10-21 may be included in the 3GPP LTE standard, the 5G standard, the NR standard, and/or other standards, embodiments are not limited to the use of such elements included in the standards.

In fig. 10, example 1000 illustrates an example of an SS transmission structure including SS block 1015, SS burst 1010, and SS burst set 1005. In this example 1000, a burst period 1020 is used.

In some embodiments, the SS block 1015 may include one or more of the following: primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). In some embodiments, a three-stage (terrestrial) synchronization signal (TSS) may be included in the SS block 1015. In some embodiments, the NR-PBCH may carry/include some system information, such as MIB (master information block) and/or other information.

In a non-limiting example, the PSS, SSS, and PBCH may be transmitted in a TDM manner. In another non-limiting example, the PSS, SSS, TSS, and PBCH may be transmitted in a TDM manner. In some cases, the transmission Bandwidth (BW) for PSS and SSS may be the same and the BW may be a fixed value (such as 5MHz or other value). In such cases, the overhead of transmitting PSS/SSS/PBCH may be significant.

In some embodiments, PSS BW may be less than SSS BW, and frequency resources outside of PSS or SSS may be used for PBCH. Thus, in some cases, the spanning time for transmitting SS blocks 1015 (possibly including PSS, SSs, and/or PBCH) may become shorter than in other embodiments. Thus, in some cases, relatively low overhead transmission may be achieved. Additionally, in some cases, little or no loss in performance may be achieved.

In some embodiments, the PSS and SSS may be multiplexed in the time domain. PBCH may be frequency multiplexed with PSS and/or SSS. In a non-limiting example, PSS may be transmitted in a first symbol period, SSS may be transmitted in a second symbol period, and PBCH may be frequency multiplexed with SSS in the second symbol period. For example, in a second symbol period, the SSS may be allocated first frequency resources and the PBCH may be allocated second frequency resources. Additional examples are described herein. In some or all of the embodiments and examples described herein, the symbol period may be one OFDM symbol period, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In the examples and embodiments described herein, it may be assumed that BW(s) for PSS, SSS, TSS, and/or PBCH is equal to or less than the channel bandwidth, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. Additionally, in the examples and embodiments described herein, PSS followed by ordering of SSs is used in SS blocks, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. Other orderings are possible, including but not limited to an ordering of SSs followed by SSs within an SS block. Additionally, some of the embodiments and examples described herein may include the use of PBCH, but some or all of the embodiments and examples described herein may be modified to include TSS instead of PBCH.

In some embodiments, the BW of PSS may be equal to or less than the BW of SSS. Frequency regions outside of the PSS and/or SSS may be used for transmitting the PBCH.

In some embodiments, the BW of the SSS may be equal to or less than the BW of the PSS, and frequency regions outside of the PSS and/or the SSS may be used for sending PBCH.

In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of PSS and PBCH may be equal to the BW of SSS. For example, in 1100 in fig. 11, PSS 1105 and PBCH 1115 are multiplexed in a first symbol period, and SSS 1110 is transmitted in a second symbol period. The aggregated BW of PSS 1105 and PBCH 1115 may be equal to the BW of SSS 1110.

An additional non-limiting example is shown in fig. 12. In examples 1200, 1220, 1240, the BW of the PSS is greater than the BW of the SSS, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect. In example 1200, the PSS 1205 is transmitted in a first symbol period. The SSS 1210 and PBCH 1215 are multiplexed in a second symbol period. The aggregated BW of the SSS 1210 and PBCH 1215 may be equal to the BW of the PSS 1205, although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1220, the PSS 1225 is transmitted in a first symbol period. The SSS 1230 and PBCH 1235 are multiplexed in the second symbol period. The aggregated BW of the SSS 1210 and PBCH 1215 may be greater than the BW of the PSS 1225, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1240, the PSS 1245 and a first portion of the PBCH (labeled 1253) are multiplexed in a first symbol period. The SSS 1250 and the second portion of the PBCH (labeled 1255) are multiplexed in a second symbol period. The aggregate BW of the SSS 1250 and the first portion of the PBCH (labeled 1253) may be equal to the aggregate BW of the SSS 1250 and the second portion of the PBCH (labeled 1255), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

An additional non-limiting example is shown in fig. 13. In example 1300, PSS 1302 and PBCH 1306 are multiplexed in a first symbol period and SSS 1304 is transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of the PSS 1302 may be less than the BW of the SSS 1304 (such as shown in example 1300), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1310, the PSS 1312 and a first portion of the PBCH (labeled 1316) are multiplexed in a first symbol period. The SSS 1314 and a second portion of the PBCH (labeled 1318) are transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of the PSS 1312 may be less than the BW of the SSS 1314 (such as shown in example 1310), although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1320, the PSS 1322 and the PBCH 1326 are multiplexed in a first symbol period and the SSS 1324 is transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of the PSS 1322 may be equal to the BW of the SSS 1324 (such as shown in example 1320), although the scope of the embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1330, the PSS 1332 is transmitted in a first symbol period. The SSS 1334 and PBCH 1336 are multiplexed in a second symbol period. BW of PSS 1332 may be equal to BW of SSS 1334 (such as shown in example 1330), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1340, the PSS 1342 and a first portion of the PBCH (labeled 1346) are multiplexed in a first symbol period. The SSS 1344 and a second portion of the PBCH (labeled 1348) are transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of PSS 1342 and the BW of SSS 1344 may be equal (such as shown in example 1340), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1350, the PSS 1352 and the PBCH 1356 are multiplexed in a first symbol period and the SSS 1354 is transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of the PSS 1352 may be greater than the BW of the SSS 1354 (such as shown in example 1350), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In example 1360, the PSS 1362 and the first portion of the PBCH (labeled 1366) are multiplexed in a first symbol period. The SSS 1364 and a second portion of the PBCH (labeled 1368) are transmitted in a second symbol period. The BW of the PSS 1362 may be greater than the BW of the SSS 1364 (such as shown in example 1360), although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect.

In fig. 14, an example SS block 1400 is shown. In the first symbol period, the PSS 1420 is transmitted. In a second symbol period, a portion of the PBCH is transmitted (labeled 1430). The SSS 1440 is transmitted in a portion of the frequency resource in a third symbol period. Additional portions of the PBCH (labeled 1442 and 1444) are transmitted in other portions of the frequency resources (outside of the portion of frequency resources used for the SSS 1440) in the third symbol period. Guard band 1446 is also used, although the scope of embodiments is not limited in this respect. In the fourth symbol period, another portion of the PBCH is transmitted (labeled 1450). As indicated by 1410, 144 subcarriers may be used for transmission of the PSS 1420 in the first symbol period. Thus, a first BW equal to the subcarrier spacing multiplied by 144 may be used in the first symbol period. As indicated by 1412, 240 subcarriers may be used in the second symbol period for transmission of the portion of the PBCH labeled 1430; the transmission of additional portions for the SSS 1440 and PBCH labeled 1444 and 1446 in the third symbol period; and for transmission of the portion of the PBCH labeled 1450 in the fourth symbol period. Thus, a second BW equal to the subcarrier spacing multiplied by 240 may be used in those symbol periods.

In some embodiments, the BW of PSS may be less than the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the BW of PSS may be equal to the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the BW of PSS may be greater than the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of PSS and PBCH may be less than the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of PSS and PBCH may be equal to the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of PSS and PBCH may be greater than the BW of SSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of SSS and PBCH may be less than the BW of PSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of SSS and PBCH may be equal to the BW of PSS. In some embodiments, the aggregated BW of SSS and PBCH may be greater than the BW of PSS.

In some or all of the embodiments and examples described herein, one or more guard bands (including, but not limited to, one or more contiguous subcarriers) may be used. In a non-limiting example, guard bands between SSS and PBCH may be used. In some cases, this may facilitate filtering operations of the SSS. The guard band may be defined separately from the SSS definition (i.e., the guard band is not part of the SSS) or may be defined as part of the SSS definition (the guard band is part of the SSS). In another non-limiting example, guard bands between the PSS and the PBCH may be used. In some cases, this may facilitate filtering operations of the PSS. The guard band may be defined separately from the PSS definition (i.e., the guard band is not part of the PSS) or may be defined as part of the PSS definition (the guard band is part of the PSS).

In some embodiments, in NR systems, techniques may be used to identify the location of an SS block within an SS slot due to the presence of multiple candidate locations for the SS block within the SS slot. In some embodiments, the techniques for identifying a position fix may also consider the potential presence of a new radio physical downlink control channel (NR-PDCCH) and/or a NR physical uplink control channel (NR-PUCCH) in the same slot.

In some embodiments, a time indexing technique for specifying the location of a particular SS block within a radio frame may be used. With time indexing and radio frame identification, the UE 102 may be able to identify one or more SS blocks within an SS burst set period.

In some embodiments, SS block candidate locations within a time slot may be defined, and the same SS block candidate location pattern may be repeated in multiple time slots within an SS burst set period. In some cases, the available SS block candidate locations may vary depending on the use of NR PDCCH and NR PUCCH transmissions in the same slot that the SS block is occupied.

In some embodiments, SS blocks may include PSS, SSs, and/or PBCH. In some embodiments, the PBCH may include broadcast information regarding one or more parameters that may be used for (and in some embodiments may be necessary for) initial access. Such parameters may include, but are not limited to, DL system bandwidth, System Frame Number (SFN), and/or other parameters.

In the example 1500 in fig. 15, the slots 1510, 1520, 1530 may include 14 OFDM symbols. In some embodiments, the time slot may be repeated across radio frames. Slot 1510 comprises PDCCH 1512, two SS blocks 1516 and 1518, and PUCCH 1514. The type of element is indicated in the legend 1505. Depending on the structure and duration (such as the number of OFDM symbols) of the SS blocks 1516, 1518, there are many different candidate locations within a single slot. To uniquely identify an SS block within a particular slot, a time indexing mechanism may be embedded in the SS block. Basically, each SS block may include an indicator (such as an indicator comprising one or more bits) that may indicate an SS slot index and/or a location of the SS block within the slot. In some cases, this indicator and the radio frame number provided by the NR-PBCH may provide a hierarchical structure for signaling SS block time indices.

In some embodiments, a System Frame Number (SFN) may be used for synchronization and/or timing reference. In some cases, the time indices discussed above (for SS blocks) may be used by the UE 102 to identify RSRP measurement results for different cells and/or different beams (such as in multi-beam operation).

It should be noted that the number of OFDM symbols used for NR-PDCCH and NR-PUCCH within a slot may not necessarily be fixed. In some cases, this may give an additional degree of variation to be captured in the design of the time indexing mechanism.

In some embodiments, a radio frame may include a fixed number of SS slots. Example techniques for calculating a time index for an SS block (which may be referred to as an SS block index in some cases) are given below, but it should be understood that alternative and/or similar techniques may be used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the number of SS blocks per slot may be different. The time index can be determined as follows-

Time index for SS block ═ (position index within slot) + (slot index) x (number of SS blocks per slot)

Referring to fig. 16, a position index within a slot is indicated by 1602 and a slot index within a radio frame is indicated by 1604. In a non-limiting example, the time index for the SS block 1614 may be 1+2 × m because the position index within the slot 1610 is 1 (selected from 0 or 1), the slot index for the slot 1610 is m, and the number of SS blocks per slot is two. The time index for the SS block 1612 may be 0+2 × m because the position index within the slot 1610 is 0, the slot index for the slot 1610 is m, and the number of SS blocks per slot is two. The time index for SS block 1624 may be 1+2 x (m +1) because the position index within slot 1620 is 1, the slot index for slot 1620 is (m +1), and the number of SS blocks per slot is two. In some embodiments, a number of bits may be used to represent the time index determined above, and those bits may be included as part of the SS block.

In some embodiments, there may be multiple options for the number of OFDM symbols of the SS block (which may be referred to as symbol periods in some cases), each of which may have multiple sub-options depending on how many symbols are occupied by the NR-PDCCH and the NR-PUCCH. In the examples herein, the SS block includes 4 or 2 OFDM symbol periods, but the embodiments are not limited to those numbers. In some embodiments, the network may be configured to transmit on any subset of the possible locations for the SS blocks. Additionally, the examples described herein and shown in the figures are not exhaustive.

Referring to fig. 17, an example configuration with different numbers of symbols for NR-PDCCH is shown. The SS block size in these examples is 4 OFDM symbols. The size of the NR-PUCCH in these examples is 2 OFDM symbols. In example 1710, PDCCH 1712 includes 3 OFDM symbols, SS blocks 1714, 1716 include 4 OFDM symbols, and PUCCH 1718 includes two OFDM symbols. The type of element is indicated in legend 1705. In examples 1710, 1720, 1730, the NR-PDCCH includes three OFDM symbols. In examples 1740, 1750, 1760, the NR-PDCCH includes two OFDM symbols. In examples 1770, 1780, 1790, the NR-PDCCH comprises one OFDM symbol.

Referring to fig. 18, an example configuration with different numbers of symbols for NR-PDCCH is shown. The SS block size in these examples is 4 OFDM symbols. The size of the NR-PUCCH in these examples is equal to one OFDM symbol. The type of element is indicated in legend 1805. In examples 1810, 1820, 1830, the NR-PDCCH comprises three OFDM symbols. In examples 1840, 1850, 1860, the NR-PDCCH includes two OFDM symbols. In examples 1870, 1880, 1890, the NR-PDCCH includes one OFDM symbol.

Referring to fig. 19, an example configuration with different numbers of symbols for NR-PDCCH is shown. The SS block size in these examples is 4 OFDM symbols. NR-PUCCH is not included in these examples. The type of element is indicated in legend 1905. In examples 1910, 1920, 1930, the NR-PDCCH includes three OFDM symbols. In examples 1940, 1950, 1960, the NR-PDCCH comprises two OFDM symbols. In examples 1970, 1980, and 1990, the NR-PDCCH includes one OFDM symbol.

Referring to fig. 20, example configurations with different numbers of symbols for NR-PDCCH and/or NR-PUCCH are shown. It should be noted that examples 2030, 2060, 2090 do not include NR-PUCCH. The SS block size in these examples is 4 OFDM symbols. These examples include different numbers of SS blocks: examples 2010 and 2020 include one SS block; examples 2030, 2040, 2050, 2070, 2080 include two SS blocks; and examples 2060, 2090 include three SS blocks. The type of element is indicated in legend 2005.

Referring to fig. 21, example configurations with different numbers of symbols for NR-PDCCH and/or NR-PUCCH are shown. It should be noted that examples 2130, 2160, 2190 do not include NR-PUCCH. The size of the SS block in these examples is 2 OFDM symbols. These examples include different numbers of SS blocks: examples 2110, 2120, and 2140 include four SS blocks; examples 2130, 2150, 2170, 2180 include five SS blocks; and examples 2160, 2190 include six SS blocks. The type of element is indicated in legend 2105.

In some embodiments, a plurality of Synchronization Signal (SS) block candidate locations may be defined within a time slot. The available SS blocks may depend on the use of the first, two or three OFDM symbols in the slot for downlink control signaling and the use of the last or two OFDM symbols in the slot for uplink and downlink switching gaps and uplink control signaling. In some embodiments, a slot may include 14 OFDM symbols. In some embodiments, three SS block candidates may be defined in a slot. In some embodiments, the first SS block candidate within the slot may occupy the 3 rd, 4 th, 5 th and 6 th OFDM symbols; the second SS block candidates within the slot may occupy the 7 th, 8 th, 9 th and 10 th OFDM symbols; the third synchronization signal block candidate within the slot may occupy the 11 th, 12 th, 13 th and 14 th OFDM symbols.

In some embodiments, SS block candidates may be enumerated within a time slot, and the time index value of an SS block may be determined by a combination of the enumeration index of SS block candidates within a time slot and the time slot index. The slot index may be an enumerated value of a slot within a radio frame. In some embodiments, the time index value may be determined based on: the product of the slot index and the maximum number of SS block candidate locations defined for the slot; and the sum of the SS block candidate location index and the product.

In example 1, an apparatus of a next generation node-b (gnb) may include a memory. The apparatus may further comprise processing circuitry. The processing circuit may be configured to encode a Synchronization Signal (SS) block for transmission, the SS block comprising: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) including an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame. The radio frame may include a plurality of time slots. The time slots may be configured for multiple SS blocks by time slot. The SS block index may be based on a summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot within the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted; and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame. The memory may be configured to store the SS blocks.

In example 2, the subject matter of example 1, wherein the intra-slot index may indicate a starting position of the SS block within the slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted. The start position may be included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

In example 3, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-2, wherein the time slots are configurable for a plurality of SS blocks in accordance with a predetermined pattern in terms of time slots, wherein an allocation per SS block may include a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods, the time slots may include a predetermined number of symbol periods, and the allocation may begin with a predetermined symbol period within the time slot.

In example 4, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-3, wherein the allocation per SS block may include four consecutive symbol periods. The slot may include 14 symbol periods. The number of SS blocks per slot may be two. The allocation per SS block may begin with the third symbol period of the slot and with the ninth symbol period of the slot.

In example 5, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-4, wherein the processing circuitry may be further configured to encode a plurality of SS blocks for transmission in the radio frame according to the predetermined pattern.

In example 6, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-5, wherein the processing circuitry may be further configured to, if the gNB is configured for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission in accordance with a Resource Element (RE) spacing of 15 kilohertz (kHz): the plurality of SS blocks are encoded for transmission in the radio frame according to a first predetermined pattern. The processing circuitry may be further configured to, if the gNB is configured for OFDM transmission in accordance with a RE spacing of 30 kHz: encoding the plurality of SS blocks for transmission in the radio frame according to a second predetermined pattern.

In example 7, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-6, wherein the PBCH may further include a System Frame Number (SFN) indicating an index of the radio frame.

In example 8, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1 to 7, wherein the PSS may be based on the cell group of the gNB. The SSS may be based on a cell identifier (cell ID) of the gNB within the cell group.

In example 9, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-8, wherein the cell group of the gNB may be included in a candidate cell group. The PSS may be based on a predetermined sequence mapped to the cell group. The cell ID of the gNB may be included in the candidate cell ID. The SSS may be based on a predetermined sequence mapped to the cell ID.

In example 10, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-9, wherein the processing circuitry may be further configured to map the SS blocks to Resource Elements (REs) for a plurality of symbol periods of an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission. At least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS may be multiplexed within the same symbol period.

In example 11, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-10, wherein the processing circuitry may be further configured to map the SS blocks to a plurality of symbol periods for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission, wherein: the PSS is mapped to a first timing symbol period, a portion of the PBCH is mapped to a second timing symbol period, the SSS is mapped to a first Resource Element (RE) in a third timing symbol period, another portion of the PBCH is mapped to a second RE in the third timing symbol period, and another portion of the PBCH is mapped to a fourth timing symbol period in the plurality of symbol periods.

In example 12, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-11, wherein the SS block is a first SS block, the time position is a first time position, the PBCH is a first PBCH, and the SS block index is a first SS block index. The processing circuitry may be further configured to encode a second SS block for transmission, the second SS block comprising a second PBCH comprising a second SS block index indicating a second time location of the second SS block within the radio frame. The first SS block may be encoded for transmission in accordance with a first beam. The second SS block may be encoded for transmission in accordance with a second beam.

In example 13, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-12, wherein the gNB may be arranged to operate in accordance with a New Radio (NR) protocol.

In example 14, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-13, wherein the processing circuitry may include a baseband processor to encode the SS block.

In example 15, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 1-14, wherein the apparatus may further comprise a transceiver to transmit the SS block.

In example 16, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors to perform operations for communication by a next generation node-b (gnb). The operations may configure the one or more processors to encode for inclusion in a Synchronization Signal (SS) block: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) including an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame. The operations may further configure the one or more processors to map the PSS, the SSS, and the PBCH for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission in an allocation of symbol periods for the SS blocks, wherein: the PSS is mapped to one of the allocated symbol periods, and at least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS are multiplexed in one of the other allocated symbol periods.

In example 17, the subject matter of example 16, wherein the allocation may include four consecutive symbol periods. The portion of the PBCH is a first portion of the PBCH. The operations may further configure the one or more processors to map the PSS to a first Resource Element (RE) in the allocated first timing symbol period. The operations may further configure the one or more processors to map the SSS and the first portion of the PBCH to a second RE in the allocated third timing symbol period. The bandwidth of the first RE may be smaller than the aggregated bandwidth of the second RE.

In example 18, an apparatus of a User Equipment (UE) may include a memory. The apparatus may further comprise processing circuitry. The processing circuitry may be configured to detect a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) of a Synchronization Signal (SS) block or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSs) of the SS block. The SS block may be received from a next generation node-b (gnb). The processing circuitry may be further configured to determine a start time of the SS block based on the PSS or SSS. The processing circuitry may be further configured to decode a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the SS block based at least in part on the start time. The processing circuitry may be further configured to determine a time location of the SS block within the radio frame based at least in part on an SS block index included in the PBCH. The radio frame may include a plurality of time slots. The time slots may be configured for multiple SS blocks by time slot. The SS block index may be based on a summation of: the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is received; and a product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of the slot receiving the SS blocks relative to the plurality of slots of the radio frame. The memory may be configured to store the SS block index.

In example 19, the subject matter of example 18, wherein the intra-slot index may indicate a starting position of the SS block within the slot in which the SS block is received. The start position may be included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

In example 20, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 18 to 19, wherein the time slots are configurable for a plurality of SS blocks in accordance with a predetermined pattern, wherein: the allocation per SS block includes a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods, the slot includes the predetermined number of symbol periods, and the allocation begins with the predetermined symbol period within the slot.

In example 21, the subject matter of one or any combination of examples 18-20, wherein the allocation per SS block may include four consecutive symbol periods. The slot may include 14 symbol periods. The number of SS blocks per slot may be two. The allocation per SS block may begin with the third symbol period of the slot and with the ninth symbol period of the slot.

In example 22, an apparatus of a next generation node-b (gnb) may include means for encoding for inclusion in a Synchronization Signal (SS) block: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) including an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame. The apparatus may further include means for mapping the PSS, the SSS, and the PBCH for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission in an allocation of symbol periods for the SS blocks, wherein: the PSS is mapped to one of the allocated symbol periods, and at least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS are multiplexed in one of the other allocated symbol periods.

In example 23, the subject matter of example 22, wherein the allocation may include four consecutive symbol periods. The portion of the PBCH is a first portion of the PBCH. The apparatus may further include means for mapping the PSS to a first Resource Element (RE) in the allocated first timing symbol period. The apparatus may further include means for mapping the SSS and the first portion of the PBCH to a second RE in the allocated third timing symbol period. The bandwidth of the first RE may be smaller than the aggregated bandwidth of the second RE.

The abstract is provided to comply with 37c.f.r. section 1.72(b), which specifies an abstract that will allow the reader to ascertain the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that: it is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to limit or interpret the scope or meaning of the claims. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.

Claims (21)

1. An apparatus of a base station, the apparatus comprising: a memory; and processing circuitry configured to:

encoding a Synchronization Signal (SS) block for transmission, the SS block comprising:

a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS),

a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and

a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) including an SS block index indicating a time position of the SS block within a radio frame,

wherein the radio frame comprises a plurality of slots, wherein the slots are configured per slot for a plurality of SS blocks,

wherein the SS block index is based on a summation of:

the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted, an

A product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted with respect to the plurality of slots of the radio frame,

wherein the memory is configured to store the SS block.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

the intra-slot index indicates a starting position of the SS block within a slot in which the SS block is to be transmitted,

the starting position is included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

the time slots are configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot according to a predetermined pattern, wherein:

the allocation per SS block includes a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods,

the slot includes a predetermined number of symbol periods,

the allocation begins with a predetermined symbol period within the slot.

4. The apparatus of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein:

the allocation per SS block includes four consecutive symbol periods,

the slot includes 14 symbol periods and the slot includes,

the number of SS blocks per slot is two, and

the allocation per SS block begins with the third symbol period of the slot and with the ninth symbol period of the slot.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, the processing circuitry further configured to:

encoding a plurality of SS blocks according to the predetermined pattern for transmission in the radio frame.

6. The apparatus of any of claims 1, 3, and 5, the processing circuitry further configured to:

encoding the plurality of SS blocks for transmission in the radio frame according to a first predetermined pattern if the base station is configured for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission according to a Resource Element (RE) spacing of 15 kilohertz (kHz); and

encoding the plurality of SS blocks for transmission in the radio frame according to a second predetermined pattern if the base station is configured for OFDM transmission according to a RE spacing of 30 kHz.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the PBCH further comprises a System Frame Number (SFN) indicating an index of the radio frame.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

the PSS is based on a cell group of the base station, and

the SSS is based on a cell identifier (cell ID) of the base station within the cell group.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 and 7 to 8, wherein:

the cell set of the base station is included in the candidate cell set,

the PSS is based on a predetermined sequence mapped to the cell group,

the cell ID of the base station is included in the candidate cell ID, and

the SSS is based on a predetermined sequence mapped to the cell ID.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, the processing circuit further configured to:

mapping the SS blocks to Resource Elements (REs) for a plurality of symbol periods of an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission,

wherein at least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS are multiplexed within the same symbol period.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, the processing circuit further configured to:

mapping the SS block to a plurality of symbol periods for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission, wherein:

the PSS is mapped to a first timing symbol period,

a portion of the PBCH is mapped to a second timing symbol period,

the SSS is mapped to a first Resource Element (RE) in a third timing symbol period,

another portion of the PBCH is mapped to a second RE in the third timing symbol period, and

another portion of the PBCH is mapped to a fourth timing symbol period of the plurality of symbol periods.

12. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 and 10 to 11, wherein:

the SS block is a first SS block, the time position is a first time position, the PBCH is a first PBCH, the SS block index is a first SS block index, and

the processing circuit is further configured to:

encoding a second SS block for transmission, the second SS block comprising a second PBCH comprising a second SS block index indicating a second time position of the second SS block within the radio frame,

wherein the first SS block is encoded for transmission in accordance with a first beam,

wherein the second SS block is encoded for transmission in accordance with a second beam.

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base station is arranged to operate in accordance with a New Radio (NR) protocol.

14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processing circuitry comprises a baseband processor to encode the SS block.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises a transceiver for transmitting the SS block.

16. A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for execution by one or more processors to perform operations for communication by a base station, the operations to configure the one or more processors to:

encoding for inclusion in a Synchronization Signal (SS) block:

a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS),

a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and

a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) including an SS block index indicating a time location of the SS block within a radio frame; and is

Mapping the PSS, the SSS, and the PBCH for Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) transmission in an allocation of symbol periods for the SS blocks, wherein:

the PSS is mapped to one of the allocated symbol periods, and

at least a portion of the PBCH and the SSS are multiplexed in one of the other symbol periods of the allocation.

17. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 16, wherein:

the allocation includes four consecutive symbol periods,

the portion of the PBCH is a first portion of the PBCH,

the operations further configure the one or more processors to:

mapping the PSS to a first Resource Element (RE) in the allocated first timing symbol period; and is

Mapping the SSS and the first portion of the PBCH to a second RE in the allocated third timing symbol period,

wherein a bandwidth of the first RE is smaller than an aggregated bandwidth of the second RE.

18. An apparatus of a User Equipment (UE), the apparatus comprising: a memory; and processing circuitry configured to:

detecting a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) of a Synchronization Signal (SS) block or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS) of the SS block, the SS block being received from a base station;

determining a start time of the SS block based on the PSS or the SSS;

decoding a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the SS block based at least in part on the start time;

determining a time location of the SS block within a radio frame based at least in part on an SS block index included in the PBCH,

wherein the radio frame comprises a plurality of slots, wherein the slots are configured per slot for a plurality of SS blocks, wherein the SS block index is based on a summation of:

the SS block is indexed within a slot in which the SS block is received, an

A product of a number of SS blocks per slot and a slot index of a slot in which the SS block is received with respect to the plurality of slots of the radio frame,

wherein the memory is configured to store the SS block index.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein:

the intra-slot index indicates a starting position of the SS block within a slot in which the SS block is received,

the starting position is included in a number of candidate SS block positions equal in size to the number of SS blocks per slot.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein:

the time slots are configured for a plurality of SS blocks per time slot according to a predetermined pattern, wherein:

the allocation per SS block includes a predetermined number of consecutive symbol periods,

the slot includes a predetermined number of symbol periods, and

the allocation begins with a predetermined symbol period within the slot.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein:

the allocation per SS block includes four consecutive symbol periods,

the slot includes 14 symbol periods and the slot includes,

the number of SS blocks per slot is two, and

the allocation per SS block begins with the third symbol period of the slot and with the ninth symbol period of the slot.

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