OA18321A - Configuration for LTE in unlicensed spectrum. - Google Patents

Abstract

In the application of TDD and eIMTA to LTE in the unlicensed spectrum, various alterations may be needed to compensate for interference from and the behavior of RATs operating in this range of frequencies. Various UE and base station methods are presented, including modified TDD configurations and UE behaviors to advance operations on unlicensed spectrum. A method, an apparatus, and a computer-readable medium for wireless communication are provided whereby configuration information is conveyed to a UE for communicating on a carrier in the unlicensed spectrum. The configuration information indicates a subframe allocation for at least one frame on the unlicensed carrier. Other aspects are directed to the detection of the transmission, communication of new and modified eIMTA configuration transmissions, and mechanism and behaviors which address unreceived configuration information.

Description

[0002] The présent disclosure relates generally to communication Systems, and more particularly, to techniques applying enhanced interférence mitigation and traffîc U adaptation (elMTA) configuration to LTE in an unlicensed spectrum.

Background [0003] Wireless communication Systems are widely deployed to provide various télécommunication services such as telephony, video, data, messaging, and - broadeasts. Typical wireless communication Systems may employ multiple-access 20 technologies capable of supporting communication with multiple usera by sharing available System resources (e.g., bandwidth, transmit power). Examples of such multiple-access technologies include code division multiple access (CDMA) Systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) Systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) Systems, orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) Systems, single-carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) Systems, and time division synchronous code division multiple access (TD-SCDMA) Systems.

[0004] These multiple access technologies hâve been adopted in various télécommunication standards to provide a common protocol that enables different wireless devices to communicate on a municipal, national, régional, and even global level. An example télécommunication standard is Long Term Evolution (LTE). LTE is a set of enhancements to the Universal Mobile Télécommunications System (UMTS) mobile standard promulgated by Third Génération Partnerahip Project (3GPP). LTE is designed to better support mobile broadband Internet access by improving spectral

efficiency, lowering costs, improving services, making use of new spectrum, and better integrating with other open standards using OFDMA on the downlink (DL), SC-FDMA on the uplïnk (UL), and multiple-input multiple-output (ΜΙΜΟ) antenna technology. However, as the demand for mobile broadband access continues to 5 increase, there exists a need for further împrovements in LTE technology. Preferably, these improvements should be applicable to other multi-access technologies and the télécommunication standards that employ these technologies.

[0005] In LTE, a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) scrambled with elMTA radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) may carry several elMTA configurations (e.g., io DL/UL configurations). Further, these elMTA configurations may correspond to different carriers scheduled as part of a multi-carrier configuration. There is a need for techniques that enable use of elMTA procedures for LTE on unlicensed spectrum.

SUMMARY [0006] In the application of time division duplex (TDD) and elMTA to LTE in the unlicensed spectrum various alterations may be needed to compensate for interférence from and the behavior of radio access technologies (RATs) operating in this range of frequencies. Various UE and base station methods are presented, including modified TDD configurations and UE behavîors to advance operations on unlicensed spectrum.

7o A method, an apparatus, and a computer-readable medium for wireless communication are provided whereby configuration information is conveyed to a UE for communîcating on a carrier in the unlicensed spectrum. The configuration information indicates a subframe allocation for at least one frame on the unlicensed carrier. Other aspects are directed to the détection ofthe transmission, communication of new and modified elMTA configuration transmissions, and mechanism to address unreceived configuration information.

[0007] In an aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be an UE. The UE receives first configuration information for a secondary component carrier (SCC) in a first frame so on a primary component carrier (PCC) from a base station. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The UE attempts to detect a start of data transmission from the base station on the SCC. The

UE receives a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe 5 allocation. Further, the UE includes means for receiving first configuration information for an SCC in a first frame on a PCC from a base station. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlîcensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The UE also includes means for attempting to detect a start of data transmission from 10 the base station on the SCC. The UE further includes means for receiving a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

[0008] In another aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be an UE. The UE detects a start of data transmission from a base station on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlîcensed spectrum. The UE attempts to receive first configuration information on the carrier from the base station. The first configuration information indicates a first ïo subframe allocation forât least one frame on the carrier. The UE receives a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first 25 subframe allocation. Further, the UE includes means for detecting a start of data transmission from a base station on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlîcensed spectrum. The UE also includes means for attempting to receive first configuration information on the carrier from the base station. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier.

The UE further includes means for receiving a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier ts successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start ofthe first subframe allocation.

[0009] In another aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station transmits first configuration information for a SCC in a first frame on a PCC to a UE. The PCC is în a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first 5 configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The base station attempts to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC. The base station transmits a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the to attempt to transmit the indicator is successful. The downlink subframe is an initia! subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. The base station includes means for transmitting first configuration information for an SCC in a first frame on a PCC to a UE. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information i5 indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The base station also includes means for attempting to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC. The base station further includes means for transmitting a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first 2o subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the indicator is successful. The downlink subframe being an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

[0010] In another aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer-readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a base station. The base station 25 transmits an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to a UE on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The base station attempts to transmit first configuration information on the carrier to the UE. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The base station transmits a downlink subframe to the UE during the 3o at least one frame on the carrier în accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. Further, the base station includes means for transmitting an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to a UE on a carrier

in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The base station also includes means for attempting to transmit first configuration information on the carrier to the UE. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The base station further includes means 5 for transmitting a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network architecture.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an access network.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an exampte of a DL frame structure in LTE.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an UL frame structure in LTE.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radio protocol architecture for the user and control planes.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an evolved Node B (eNB) and a user equipment (UE) in an access network.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a primary component carrier (PCC) and a secondary component carrier (SCC) in one configuration.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration.

[0021] FIG. 11 îs a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB .w on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a carrier in a configuration.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a carrier in a configuration.

[0024] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a carrier in another configuration.

[0025] FIG. 15 îs a flowchartofa method of wireless communication ofa UE on a PCC and an SCC.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a flow chart of another method of wireless communication of a UE on a PCC and an SCC.

[0027] FIG. 17 îs a flow chart of a method of wireless communication of a UE on a carrier.

[0028] FIG. 18 is a flow chart of another method of wireless communication of a UE on a carrier.

[0029] FIG. 19 is a flow chart of a method of wireless communication of a base station on a PCC and an SCC.

[0030] FIG. 20 is a flow chart ofanother method ofwireless communication ofa base station is on a PCC and an SCC.

[0031] FIG. 21 îs a flow chart ofa method ofwireless communication ofa base station on a carrier.

[0032] FIG. 22 is a flow chart of another method of wireless communication of a base station on a carrier.

[0033] FIG. 23 is a conceptual data flow diagram illustrating the data flow between different modules/means/components in an exemplary apparatus.

[0034] FIG. 24 is a conceptual data flow diagram illustrating the data flow between different modules/means/components in another exemplary apparatus.

[0035] FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware implémentation for an n apparatus employing a processing system.

[0036] FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware implémentation for another apparatus employing a processing system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0037] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes spécifie details for the purpose of providing a thorough

understanding of various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these spécifie details. In some instances, well known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

[0038] Several aspects of télécommunication Systems will now be presented with reference to various apparatus and methods. These apparatus and methods will be described in the following detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, modules, components, circuits, steps, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as “éléments”). These éléments may be implemented using ία électronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such éléments are implemented as hardware or software dépends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall System.

[0039] By way of example, an element, or any portion of an element, or any combination of éléments may be implemented with a “processing System” that includes one or more is processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gâte arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrète hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionality described throughout this dîsclosure. One or more processors in the processing 2o System may execute software. Software shall be construed broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, exécutables, threads of execution, procedures, fonctions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, « microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0040] Accordingly, in one or more exemplary embodiments, the fonctions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the fonctions may be stored on or encoded as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media το includes computer storage media. Storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), compact disk ROM (CD-ROM) or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other

magnetic storage devices, combinations of the aforementioned types of computerreadable media, or any other medium that can be used to store computer exécutable code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an LTE network architecture. The LTE network s architecture may be referred to as an Evolved Packet System (EPS) 100. The EPS 100 may include one or more user equipment (UE) 102, an Evolved UMTS Terrestrîal Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) 104, an Evolved Packet Core (EPC) 110, and an Operator’s Internet Protocol (IP) Services 122. The EPS can interconnect with other access networks, but for simplicity those entities/interfaces are not shown. As shown, io the EPS provides packet-switched services, however, as those skîlled in the art wîll readily appreciate, the various concepts presented throughout this disclosure may be extended to networks providing circuit-switched services.

[0042] The E-UTRAN includes the evolved Node B (eNB) 106 and other eNBs 108, and may include a Multicast Coordination Entity (MCE) 128. The eNB 106 provides user and 15 control planes protocol terminations toward the UE 102. The eNB 106 may be connected to the other eNBs 108 via a backhaul (e.g., an X2 interface). The MCE 128 allocates time/frequency radio resources for evolved Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) (eMBMS), and détermines the radio configuration (e.g., a modulation and coding scheme (MCS)) for the eMBMS. The MCE 128 may be a 20 separate entity or part of the eNB 106. The eNB 106 may also be referred to as a base station, a Node B, an access point, a base transceiver station, a radio base station, a radio transceiver, a transceiver function, a basic service set (BSS), an extended service set (ESS), or some other suitable terminology. The eNB 106 provides an access point to the EPC 110 for a UE 102. Examples of UEs 102 include a cellular phone, a smart phone, a session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, a laptop, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a satellite radio, a global positioning System, a multimedia device, a video device, a digital audio player (e.g., MP3 player), a caméra, a game console, a tablet, or any other similar functîoning device. The UE 102 may also be referred to by those skilled in the art as a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber 3o unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communications device, a remote device, a mobile subscriber station, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, or some other suitable terminology.

[0043] The eNB 106 is connected to the EPC 110. The EPC 110 may include a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 112, a Home Subscriber Server (HSS) 120, other MMEs 114, a Serving Gateway 116, a Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) Gateway 124, a Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BM-SC) 126, and a Packet Data s Network (PDN) Gateway 118. The MME 112 is the control node that processes the signaling between the UE 102 and the EPC 110. Generally, the MME 112 provides bearer and connection management. Ail user IP packets are transferred through the Serving Gateway 116, which itself is connected to the PDN Gateway 118. The PDN Gateway 118 provides UE IP address allocation as well as other fonctions. The PDN io Gateway 118 and the BM-SC 126 are connected to the IP Services 122. The IP Services 122 may include the Internet, an intranet, an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), a PS Streaming Service (PSS), and/or other IP services. The BM-SC 126 may provide fonctions for MBMS user service provisioning and delivery. The BM-SC 126 may serve as an entry point for content provider MBMS transmission, may be is used to authorize and initiate MBMS Bearer Services within a PLMN, and may be used to schedule and deliver MBMS transmissions. The MBMS Gateway 124 may be used to distribute MBMS traffic to the eNBs (e.g., 106, 108) belonging to a Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) area broadcasting a partïcular service, and may be responsible for session management (start/stop) and for 2û collecting eMBMS related charging information.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an access network 200 in an LTE network architecture. In this example, the access network 200 is dîvided into a number of cellular régions (cells) 202. One or more lower power class eNBs 208 may hâve cellular régions 210 that overlap with one or more of the cells 202. The lower 2s power class eNB 208 may be a femto cell (e.g., home eNB (HeNB)), pico cell, micro cell, or remote radio head (RRH). The macro eNBs 204 are each assigned to a respective cell 202 and are configured to provide an access point to the EPC 110 for ail the UEs 206 in the cells 202. There is no centralized control 1er in this example of an access network 200, but a centralized controller may be used in alternative 3o configurations. The eNBs 204 are responsible for ait radio related fonctions including radio bearer control, admission control, mobility control, scheduling, security, and connectivity to the serving gateway 116. An eNB may support one or multiple (e.g., three) cells (also referred to as a sectors). The term “cell” can refer to the smallest coverage area of an eNB and/or an eNB subsystem serving a partïcular coverage area.

Further, the terms “eNB,” “base station, and “cell” may be used interchangeably herein.

[0045] The modulation and multiple access scheme employed by the access network 200 may vary depending on the particular télécommunications standard being deployed. In s LTE applications, OFDM is used on the DL and SC-FDMA is used on the UL to support both frequency division duplex (FDD) and TDD. As those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the detailed description to follow, the various concepts presented herein are well suited for LTE applications. However, these concepts may be readily extended to other télécommunication standards employing other io modulation and multiple access techniques. By way ofexample, these concepts may be extended to Evolution-Data Optimîzed (EV-DO) or Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB). EV-DO and UMB are air interface standards promulgated by the 3rd Génération Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2) as part of the CDMA2000 family of standards and employs CDMA to provide broadband Internet access to mobile is stations. These concepts may also be extended to Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) employing Wideband-CDMA (W-CDMA) and other variants of CDMA, such as TD-SCDMA; Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) employing TDMA; and Evolved UTRA (E-UTRA), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, and Flash-OFDM employing OFDMA. UTRA, E-UTRA, 20 UMTS, LTE and GSM are described in documents from the 3GPP organization. CDMA2000 and UMB are described in documents from the 3GPP2 organization. The actual wireless communication standard and the multiple access technology employed will dépend on the spécifie application and the overall design constraints imposed on the system.

[0046] The eNBs 204 may hâve multiple antennas supporting ΜΙΜΟ technology. The use of ΜΙΜΟ technology enables the eNBs 204 to exploit the spatial domain to support spatial multiplexing, beamforming, and transmit diversity. Spatial multiplexing may be used to transmit different streams of data simultaneously on the same frequency. The data streams may be transmitted to a single UE 206 to increase the data rate or to μ multiple UEs 206 to increase the overall system capacity. Thîs is achieved by spatially precoding each data stream (i.e., applying a scaling of an amplitude and a phase) and then transmitting each spatially precoded stream through multiple transmit antennas on the DL. The spatially precoded data streams arrive at the UE(s) 206 with different spatial signatures, which enables each of the UE(s) 206 to recover the one

or more data streams destined for that UE 206. On the UL, each UE 206 transmits a spatially precoded data stream, which enables the eNB 204 to identify the source of each spatially precoded data stream.

[0047] Spatial multîplexing is generally used when channel conditions are good. When s channel conditions are less favorable, beamforming may be used to focus the transmission energy in one or more directions. This may be achieved by spatially precoding the data for transmission through multiple antennas. To achieve good coverage at the edges of the cell, a single stream beamforming transmission may be used in combination with transmit diversity.

[0048] In the detailed description that follows, various aspects of an access network will be described with référencé to a ΜΙΜΟ System supporting OFDM on the DL. OFDM is a spread-spectrum technique that modulâtes data over a number of subcarriers within an OFDM symbol. The subcarriers are spaced apart at précisé frequencies. The spacîng provides “orthogonality” that enables a receiver to recover the data from the U subcarriers. In the time domain, a guard interval (e.g., cyclic prefix) may be added to each OFDM symbol to combat inter-OFDM-symbol interférence. The UL may use SC-FDMA in the form of a DFT-spread OFDM signal to compensate for high peakto-average power ratio (PAPR).

[0049] FIG. 3 is a diagram 300 illustrating an example of a DL frame structure in LTE. A frame (10 ms) may be divided into 10 equalfy sized subframes. Each subframe may include two consecutive time slots. A resource grid may be used to represent two time slots, each time slot including a resource block. The resource grid is divided into multiple resource éléments. In LTE, for a normal cyclic prefix, a resource block contains 12 consecutive subcarriers in the frequency domain and 7 consecutive 2s OFDM symbols in the time domain, for a total of 84 resource éléments. For an extended cyclic prefix, a resource block contains 12 consecutive subcarriers in the frequency domain and 6 consecutive OFDM symbols in the time domain, for a total of 72 resource éléments. Some of the resource éléments, indicated as R 302, 304, include DL référencé signais (DL-RS). The DL-RS înclude Cell-specific RS (CRS)

3o (also sometimes called common RS) 302 and UE-specific RS (UE-RS) 304. UE-RS 304 are transmitted on the resource blocks upon which the corresponding physical DL shared channel (PDSCH) is mapped. The number of bits carried by each resource element dépends on the modulation scheme. Th us, the more resource blocks that a

[0050] [0051] [0052]

UE receives and the higher the modulation scheme, the higher the data rate for the UE.

FIG. 4 is a diagram 400 illustratîng an example of an UL frame structure in LTE. The available resource blocks for the UL may be partitioned into a data section and a control section. The control section may be formed at the two edges of the System bandwîdth and may bave a configurable size. The resource blocks in the control section may be assigned to UEs for transmission of control information. The data section may include ail resource blocks not included in the control section. The UL frame structure results in the data section including contiguous subcarriers, which may allow a single UE to be assigned ail of the contiguous subcarriers in the data section.

A UE may be assigned resource blocks 410a, 410b in the control section to transmit control information to an eNB. The UE may also be assigned resource blocks 420a, 420b in the data section to transmit data to the eNB. The UE may transmit control information in a physical UL control channel (PUCCH) on the assigned resource blocks in the control section. The UE may transmit data or both data and control information in a physical UL shared channel (PUSCH) on the assigned resource blocks in the data section. A UL transmission may span both slots of a subframe and may hop across frequency.

A set of resource blocks may be used to perform initial System access and achieve UL synchronization in a physical random access channel (PRACH) 430. The PRACH 430 carries a random sequence and cannot carry any UL data/sïgnaling. Each random access preamble occupîes a bandwîdth corresponding to six consecutive resource blocks. The starting frequency is specified by the network. That is, the transmission of the random access preamble is restricted to certain time and frequency resources. There is no frequency hopping for the PRACH. The PRACH attempt is carried in a single subframe (1 ms) or in a sequence of few contiguous subframes and a UE can make a single PRACH attempt per frame (10 ms).

FIG. 5 îs a diagram 500 illustratîng an example of a radio protocol architecture for the user and control planes in LTE. The radio protocol architecture for the UE and the eNB is shown with three layers: Layer 1, Layer 2, and Layer 3. Layer 1 (L1 layer) is the lowest layer and implements various physical layer signal processing fonctions. The L1 layer will be referred to herein as the physical layer 506. Layer 2 (L2 layer) [0053]

[0054] [0055] [0056] [005η

508 is above the physical layer 506 and is responsible for the link between the UE and eNB over the physical layer 506.

In the user plane, the L2 layer 508 includes a media access control (MAC) sublayer 510, a radio link control (RLC) sublayer 512, and a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) 514 sublayer, which are terminated at the eNB on the network side. Although not shown, the UE may hâve several upper layers above the L2 layer 508 including a network layer (e.g., IP layer) that is terminated at the PDN gateway 118 on the network side, and an application layer that is terminated at the other end of the connection (e.g., far end UE, server, etc.).

The PDCP sublayer 514 provides multiplexing between different radio bearers and logical channels. The PDCP sublayer 514 also provides header compression for upper layer data packets to reduce radio transmission overhead, security by cipherîng the data packets, and handover support for UEs between eNBs. The RLC sublayer 512 provides segmentation and reassembly of upper layer data packets, retransmission of lost data packets, and reordering of data packets to compensate for out-of-order réception due to hybrîd automatic repeat request (HARQ). The MAC sublayer 510 provides multiplexing between logical and transport channels. The MAC sublayer 510 is also responsible for allocating the various radio resources (e.g., resource blocks) in one cell among the UEs. The MAC sublayer 510 is also responsible for HARQ operations.

In the control plane, the radio protocol architecture for the UE and eNB is substantially the same for the physical layer 506 and the L2 layer 508 with the exception that there is no header compression function for the control plane. The control plane also includes a radio resource control (RRC) sublayer 516 in Layer 3 (L3 layer). The RRC sublayer 516 is responsible for obtaînîng radio resources (e.g., radio bearers) and for configuring the lower layers using RRC signaling between the eNB and the UE.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an eNB 610 in communication with a UE 650 in an access network. In the DL, upper layer packets from the core network are provided to a controller/processor 675. The controller/processor 675 implements the functionality ofthe L2 layer. In the DL, the controller/processor 675 provides header compression, cipherîng, packet segmentation and reordering, multiplexing between logical and transport channels, and radio resource allocations to the UE 650 based on various priority metrics. The controller/processor 675 is also responsible for HARQ operations, retransmission of lost packets, and signaling to the UE 650.

[0058] The transmit (TX) procèssor 616 implements various signal processïng fonctions for the L1 layer (i.e., physical layer). The signal processïng fonctions include coding and 5 interleaving to facilitate forward error correction (FEC) at the UE 650 and mapping to signal constellations based on various modulation schemes (e.g., binary phase-shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK), M-phase-shift keying (MPSK), M-quadrature amplitude modulation (M-QAM)). The coded and modulated symbols are then split into parallel streams. Each stream is then mapped to an OFDM io subcarrier, multiplexed with a reference signal (e.g., pilot) in the time and/or frequency domain, and then combined together using an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) to produce a physical channel carrying a time domain OFDM symbol stream. The OFDM stream is spatially precoded to produce multiple spatial streams. Channel estimâtes from a channel estimator 674 may be used to détermine <5 the coding and modulation scheme, as well as for spatial processïng. The channel estimate may be derived from a reference signal and/or channel condition feedback transmitted by the UE 650. Each spatial stream may then be provided to a different antenna 620 via a separate transmitter 618TX. Each transmitter 618TX may modulate an RF carrier with a respective spatial stream for transmission.

[0059] At the UE 650, each receîver 654RX receives a signa! through its respective antenna 652. Each receiver 654RX recovers information modulated onto an RF carrier and provides the information to the receive (RX) processor 656. The RX processor 656 implements various signal processïng fonctions of the L1 layer. The RX processor 656 may perform spatial processïng on the information to recover any spatial streams 25 destined for the UE 650. If multiple spatial streams are destined for the UE 650, they may be combined by the RX processor 656 into a single OFDM symbol stream. The RX processor 656 then converts the OFDM symbol stream from the time-domain to the frequency domain using a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). The frequency domain signal comprises a separate OFDM symbol stream for each subcarrier of the OFDM ao signal. The symbols on each subcarrier, and the reference signal, are recovered and demodulated by determining the most Iîkely signal constellation points transmitted by the eNB 610. These soft decisions may be based on channel estimâtes computed by the channel estimator 658. The soft decisions are then decoded and deinterleaved to recover the data and contre! signais that were originally transmitted by the eNB 610

on the physical channel. The data and control signais are then provided to the controller/processor 659.

[0060] The controller/processor 659 împlements the L2 layer. The controller/processor can be associated with a memory 660 that stores program codes and data. The memory 5 660 may be referred to as a computer-readable medium. In the UL, the controller/processor 659 provides demultiplexîng between transport and logical channels, packet reassembly, deciphering, header décompression, control signal processing to recover upper layer packets from the core network. The upper layer packets are then provided to a data sink 662, which représente ail the protocol layers io above the L2 layer. Various control signais may also be provided to the data sink 662 for L3 processing. The controller/processor 659 is also responsible for error détection using an acknowledgement (AC K) and/or négative acknowledgement (NACK) protocol to support HARQ operations.

[0061] In the UL, a data source 667 is used to provide upper layer packets to the controller/processor 659. The data source 667 représente ail protocol layers above the

L2 layer. Similar to the functionality described in connection with the DL transmission by the eNB 610, the controller/processor 659 implements the L2 layer for the user plane and the control plane by providing header compression, ciphering, packet segmentation and reordering, and multiplexïng between logical and transport channels based on radio resource allocations by the eNB 610. The controller/processor 659 is also responsible for HARQ operations, retransmission of lost packets, and signaling to the eNB 610.

[0062] Channel estimâtes derived by a channel estimator 658 from a reference signal or feedback transmitted by the eNB 610 may be used by the TX processor 668 to select is the appropriate coding and modulation schemes, and to facilitate spatial processing.

The spatial streams generated by the TX processor 668 may be provided to different antenna 652 via separate transmîtters 654TX. Each transmitter 654TX may modulate an RF carrier with a respective spatial stream for transmission.

[0063] The UL transmission is processed at the eNB 610 in a manner similar to that described in connection with the recel ver fonction at the UE 650. Each receiver 618RX receives a signal through its respective antenna 620. Each receiver 618RX recovers information modulated onto an RF carrier and provides the information to a RX processor 670. The RX processor 670 may implement the L1 layer.

[0064] The controller/processor 675 implements the L2 layer. The controller/processor 675 can be associated with a memory 676 that stores program codes and data. The memory 676 may be referred to as a computer-readable medium. In the UL, the controller/processor 675 provides demultiplexîng between transport and Iogical s channels, packet reassembly, deciphering, header décompression, control signal processing to recover upper layer packets from the UE 650. Upper layer packets from the controller/processor 675 may be provided to the core network. The controller/processor 675 is also responsible for error détection using an ACK and/or NACK protocol to support HARQ operations.

[0065] FIG. 7 is a diagram 700 illustratîng wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in one configuration. An eNB 702 may communicate with a UE 704 on a PCC 706 and an SCC 708. The PCC 706 is in a licensed spectrum and the SCC 708 is in an unlicensed spectrum. The PCC 706 is illustrated with frames 711 and 713 overlapping frame periods 792 and 794, respectively. The frame 711 is includes subframes 720-729 overlapping subframe periods 770-779, respectively.

The frame 713 includes subframes 730-739 overlapping subframe periods 780-789, respectively. The SCC 708 is illustrated with frames 712 and 714 overlapping frame periods 792 and 794, respectively. The frame 712 includes subframes 741-749 overlapping subframe periods 771-779, respectively. An interférence time period 760 20 and channel réservation and access indication signais 761 (e.g., a Downlink Channel

Usage Beacon Sequence (D-CUBS)) are prior to the frame 712. The frame 714 includes subframes 750-759 overlapping subframe periods 780-789, respectively. In one example, the PCC 706 may be configured for downlink (DL) transmisions, and a frame transmitted on the PCC 706 may only contain downlink subframes. However, 25 the PCC 706 may be configured with both uplink and downlink subframes in accordance with TDD or FDD implémentations. The SCC 708 is in a TDD mode and may be configured for DL and an uplink (UL) transmissions at different times. A frame transmitted on the SCC 708 may hâve one or more downlink subframes (D), one or more uplink subframes (U), and/or one or more spécial subframes (S). Further, 3o the eNB 702 may indicate allocation of downlink subframes, uplink subframes, and/or spécial subframes for a frame on the SCC 708 in an elMTA configuration, which is to be transmitted to the UE 704.

[0066] A physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) scrambled with elMTA radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) may carry several elMTA configurations (e.g., DLÆJL configurations). Further, these elMTA configurations may correspond to different SCCs scheduled as part ofthe multi-carrier configuration. For example, 15 bits data s used in a 20MHz carrier may indicate 5 possibly different DL/UL configurations. 13 bits data used in a 10MHz carrier may indicate 4 possibly different DL/UL configurations. The eNB 702 may use an RRC configuration message to indicate to the UE 704 the group of bits to monitor in the PDCCH in order to dérivé the DL/UL configuration for a given carrier.

[0067] Further, the eNB 702 may establish, in addition to the PCC 706 and the SCC 708, one or more SCCs. The UE 704 can monitor a different set of bits in the elMTA-RNTI based PDCCH on the PCC 706 to dérivé the DL/UL configuration fora different SCC.

[0068] The unlîcensed spectrum used by the SCC 708 may be shared by one or more other RATs (e.g., IEEE 802.11). The eNB 702 can use a carrier sensing and collision ’> avoidance mechanism of the RAT(s) sharing the unlîcensed spectrum to reserve the unlîcensed spectrum. For example, when IEEE 802.11 is sharing the unlîcensed spectrum, the eNB 702 can employ a channel réservation mechanism to reserve the unlîcensed spectrum.

[0069] In this configuration, upon deciding to communicate data with the UE 704 on the SCC

2o 708, the eNB 702 may transmit to the UE 704 an elMTA configuration to be applied to the SCC 708 în the frame 711 transmitted on the PCC 706 in the frame period 792. The frame 711 has 10 subframes (Le., subframes 720-729) each transmitted in a subframe period ofthe frame period 792. A selected subframe ofthe frame 711, e.g., the subframe 720 or the subframe 725, includes the elMTA configuration. The 25 elMTA configuration directed to the UE 704 may be included in a PDCCH scrambled with the elMTA-RNTI of the UE 704. The scrambled PDCCH may include downlink control information (DCI) format IC. Upon receiving the subframe 720, the UE704 detects and décodés the scrambled PDCCH in the common search space. The elMTA configuration indicates an allocation of downlink subframes, uplink subframes, and no spécial subframes in a frame. For example, the elMTA configuration can indicate, for a scheduled frame, that subframes 0-5 are downlink subframes, that subframes 6 and 9 are spécial subframes, and that subframes 7-8 are uplink subframes.

[0070] For such a configuration, the switch between downlink and uplink occurs in the subframe 746 and the subframe 749, which are spécial subframes. A spécial subframe

may be split into three parts: a downlink part (DwPTS), a guard period (GP), and an uplink part (UpPTS) common in LTE TDD configurations. Furthermore, the spécial subframe may include other transmissions relevant to unlicensed spectrum behavior. In one technique, the last subframe of a frame on the SCC 708 may be a spécial s subframe (i.e., S’). Within the time period of the spécial subframe S’ (e.g., the subframe period 779), the eNB 702 may use the réservation mechanism of the RAT (e.g., DCF with respect to IEEE 802.11) sharing the unlicensed spectrum to acquire the unlicensed spectrum for the next frame period (e.g., the frame period 794).

[0071] At the beginning of the frame period 792, the eNB 702 may attempt to acquire the n unlicensed spectrum using the réservation mechanism of the RAT sharing the unlicensed spectrum. For example, if the unlicensed spectrum is shared by the IEEE 802.11, the eNB 702 may use various medium access / random access procedures to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. It may take the eNB 702 the time period 760 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. After acquiring the unlicensed spectrum, the eNB is 702 may start communicating data with the UE 704 in the next subframe period. In this example, the time period 760 îs within the subframe period 770 of the frame period 792. Accordingly, the eNB 702 may start communicating data with the UE 704 in the next subframe period (i.e., the subframe period 771) of the frame period 792.

[0072] In one technique, the eNB 702 transmits the elMTA configuration for the SCC 708 to the UE 704 on the PCC 706 as described supra. Further, the elMTA configuration may indicate that the boundaries of the frames transmitted on the SCC 708 are to be aligned with the frames transmitted on the PCC 706.

[0073] In a first option, the elMTA configuration indicates that the allocation of the subframes is to be applied to one frame on the SCC 708. In other words, the periodicity (T) of the elMTA configuration may be a preconfigured number of subframes. In this spécifie example, the periodicity îs 10 subframes (i.e., T = 10). In other examples, the periodicity may be 12, 14, 20, or other suitable number of subframes. The elMTA configuration may be încluded in the subframe 0 ofa frame au transmitted on the PCC 706 and may request the UE 704 to apply the allocation to a frame transmitted on the SCC 708 in the same frame period. In this example, the eNB 702 transmits the elMTA configuration in the subframe 720 of the frame 711 transmitted in the frame period 792. The elMTA configuration is to be applied to a frame transmitted in the frame period 792 on the SCC 708. For cxample, the elMTA

configuration can indicate, for a frame to be applied, that subframes 0-5 are downlink subframes, that subframes 6 and 9 are spécial subframes, and that subframes 7-8 are uplink subframes.

[0074] As described supra, the eNB 702 acquires the unlicensed spectrum in the time period s 760, which is within the subframe period 770. The eNB 702 détermines that the partial frame 712 can be communicated with the UE 704 in the remaining subframe periods ofthe frame period 792. Specifically, the eNB 702 détermines that subframes 741-749 ofthe partial frame 712 may be communicated with the UE 704 in subframe periods 771-779 of the frame period 792. The UE 704 further détermines, in io accordance with the elMTA configuration of this spécifie example, that the subframes

741-745 are downlink subframes, that the subframe 746 and the subframe 749 are spécial subframes, and that the subframes 747-748 are uplink subframes. Prior to transmitting the subframe 741, the eNB 702 transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 761 (which may be, for example, a D-CUBS) on the SCC 708 to is inform the UE 704 of the start of the partial frame 712. Upon receiving the channel réservation and access indication signais 761, the UE 704 can détermine that the transmission ofthe partial frame 712 starts at the beginnîng of the subframe period 771, for example, based on the synchronization information received on the PCC 706. The UE 704 then processes and communicates the partial frame 712 in accordance 20 with the elMTA configuration.

[0075] In one technique, the eNB 702 and the UE 704 may be configured to always start communication of a frame in a downlink subframe. In this example, the UE 704 can détermine that the subframe 741 is a downlink subframe. Accordingly, the UE 704 opérâtes to receive the subframe 741 in the subframe period 771. Similarly, the UE 25 704 détermines that the subframes 742-745 are downlink subframes and opérâtes to receive the subframes 742-745. The UE 704 further détermines that the subframes 747-748 are uplink subframes and may utîlîze those subframes to transmit data to the eNB 702.

[0076] As described supra, in this technique, the eNB 702 starts transmitting the partial frame μ 712 only when a downlink subframe is available. In certain circumstances, the eNB 702 may take a longer time to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. For example, the time period 760 may occupy the subframe periods 770-776. Thus, the partial frame 712 would only include subframes 747-749. In this example, the subframe 747 is allocated as an uplink subframe. Accordingly, the eNB 702 does not transmit channel

réservation and access indication signais 761 to the UE 704 to indicate the start ofthe partial frame 712 prior to the subframe 747. Further, the eNB 702 may transmit signais that are not recognizable by the UE 704 on the unlicensed spectrum during the subframe periods 777-779 in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. As such, the 5 eNB 702 is able to use the unlicensed spectrum at the beginning of the next frame period (Le., the subframe period 780 ofthe frame period 794). Subsequently, the eNB 702 transmits the elMTA configuration in the subframe 730 ofthe frame 713 in the frame period 794 on the PCC 706. Upon receiving the elMTA configuration, the UE 704 applies the elMTA configuration to a frame 714 transmitted on the SCC 708 io during the frame period 794.

[0077] As is évident from FIG. 7, various examples envision the possibility of beginning elMTA configurations with a sériés of downlink subframes, or some variation thereof. In one technique, the eNB 702 may inform the UE 704 that in a frame on the SCC 708 ail the downlink subframes are consecutive and ail the uplink subframes are i5 consecutive; further, the downlink subframes are allocated prior to the uplink subframes. For example, the allocation may be D D D D D S U U U S*. The eNB may implement such as allocation using a référencé subframe indication. For example, the eNB may indicate the référencé subframe 5 (subframes begin at 0) for the existing TDD configuration DSUUUDDDDDto shift the configuration by ίο 5 subframestogeneratethenewconfigurationDDDDDDSUUU. Usingsucha shifting mechanism, the eNB may arrange the downlink and uplink subframes to a configuration better suîted for LTE in unlicensed spectrum.

[0078] Various techniques may be used to implement the référencé subframe indication, including explicit and implicit signaling. For example, the référencé subframe r. indication may be explicitly transmitted as an index or other value with elMTA configuration.

[0079] Various implicit signaling methods may also be used. For example, instead of transmitting the elMTA configuration at subframe 0, the elMTA may be transmitted on the référencé subframe. Accordingly, in the elMTA configuration is transmitted 3Ί on subframe 5, then the transmitted elMTA configuration is shifted 5 subframes, but still begins at subframe 0 of the next frame. In a similar example, when elMTA configuration is transmitted on subframe 5, then the transmitted elMTA configuration begins on subframe 5, effectively shifting the implémentation for the next subframe. In yet another example, when elMTA configuration is transmitted on subframe 5, the

elMTA configuration may immediately become effective starting with subframe 5 of the elMTA configuration.

[0080] Various other subframe configuration and reference subframes may be used, as subframe 5 and configuration DSUUUDDDDDare used only for exemplary s purposes.

[0081] Altematively, the eNB 702 may not transmit an elMTA configuration on the PCC 706 to indicate the allocation. Instead, the UE 704 may détermine the allocation of uplink subframes and spécial subframes upon not detecting a downlink subframe after detecting consecutive downlink subframes. The UE 704 may détermine, in a frame n on the SCC 708, that the consecutive downlink subframes are followed by a spécial subframe (S), that uplink subframes (U) follows the spécial subframe (S), and that the last subframe in the frame is another spécial subframe (S’).

[0082] FIG. 8 is a diagram 800 illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration. The PCC 706 is illustrated with is frames 811 and 813 overlapping frame periods 892 and 894, respectively. The frame 811 includes subframes 820-829 overlapping subframe periods 870-879, respectively. The frame 813 includes subframes 830-839 overlapping subframe periods 880-889, respectively. The SCC 708 is illustrated with frames 812 and 814 overlapping frame periods 892 and 894, respectively. The frame 812 includes subframes 845-849 20 overlapping subframe periods 875-879, respectively. An interférence time period 860 and channel réservation and access indication signais 861 (e.g., a D-CUBS) are prior to the frame 812. The frame 814 includes subframes 850-859 overlapping subframe periods 880-889, respectively.

[0083] In thîs configuration, the eNB 702 selects an elMTA configuration for use in the SCC 708 and then détermines whether the elMTA configuration allocates multiple consecutive downlink subframes. If the elMTA configuration allocates multiple consecutive downlink subframes, the eNB 702 finds the index of the initial subframe of the consecutive downlink subframes and then transmits the elMTA configuration in a subframe having the same index in a selected frame period. The elMTA 30 configuration may indicate that the elMTA configuration is to be applîed to one virtual frame 896 transmitted on the SCC 708 that starts at a subframe having the same index of a frame transmitted in the selected frame period and that extends into a frame in the next frame period.

[0084] For example, the elMTA configuration may allocate the 0^,A to the 9^rt subframes in a frame asDSUUUDDDDD. The eNB 702 détermines that the elMTA configuration allocates consecutive downlink subframes in the 5^e* to the 9^!fl subframes.

The initia! subframe of the consecutive downlink subframes is the δ¹* subframe. s Accordingly, the eNB 702 includes the elMTA configuration in the subframe 825 of the frame 811 transmitted on the PCC 706 in the frame period 892. The elMTA configuration indicates that the applicable subframes are subframes 845-849 of the frame 812 transmitted in the frame period 792 and subframes 850-854 of the frame 814 transmitted in the frame period 794 on the SCC 708. The allocation of these 10 subframes (Le., the virtua! frame 896) isDDDDDDSUUU.

[0085] The eNB 702 may use the time period 860 to acquîre the unlicensed spectrum and then transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 861 on the SCC 708 prior to the subframe period 875 to indicate the start of the transmission of the frame 812. Upon detecting the channel réservation and access indication signais 861, the is UE 704 starts communicating with the eNB 702 at the next subframe (e.g., the subframe 845) ofthe subframes 845-849 ofthe frame 812 and the subframes 850-854 of the frame 814. In certain circumstances, the eNB 702 may take a longer time to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. For example, the time period 860 may occupy the subframe periods 875-877. Accordingly, the UE 704 starts communicating with the io eNB 702 at the subframe 848 ofthe frame 812. In one technique, the communication between the eNB 702 and the UE 704 on the SCC 708 may be required to start at a downlink subframe from the eNB 702 to the UE 704. Thus, the initial consecutive downlink subframes of the 10 subframes associated with the elMTA configuration may provide the eNB 702 more opportunities to acquire the unlicensed spectrum and then immediately transmit a downlink subframe to the UE 704 such that the communication between the eNB 702 and the UE 704 starts promptly without delay.

Further, the eNB 702 may transmit another elMTA configuration In the subframe 835 of the frame 813. Upon receiving the elMTA configuration, the UE 704 applies the elMTA configuration to n subframes starting at the subframe 855 (where n can be a ίο predetermined integer value, e.g., 10 or 11, or a value signaled via RRC or MAC signaling).

[0086] FIG. 9 is a diagram 900 illustratîng wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration. The PCC 706 is illustrated with frames 911 and 913 overlappîng frame periods 992 and 994, respectively. The frame

911 includes subframes 920-929 overlappîng subframe periods 970-979, respectively. The trame 913 includes subframes 930-939 overlappîng subframe periods 980-989, respectively. The SCC 708 is illustrated with frames 912 and 914 overlappîng frame periods 994 and 996, respectively. The frame 912 includes subframes 941-949 s overlappîng subframe periods 981 -989, respectively. An interférence time period 960 and channel réservation and access indication signais 961 (e.g., a D-CUBS) are prior to the frame 912. The frame 914 includes subframes 950-959 overlappîng the frame period 996.

[0087] In this configuration, the elMTA configuration indicates allocation of the subframes ία that is to be applied to multiple frames on the SCC 708. For example, the periodicity (T) of the elMTA configuration may be 20,40, or 80 subframes (i.e., T = 20,40, or

80). In one technique, the elMTA configuration indicated in a subframe în the (m7710)'^A frame (i.e., a frame in the (m2710)^rt frame period) on the PCC 706 is to be used for the (mPlO + 1)'*, (mTAQ + 2)'*,... , ((m + 1 )ΤΛ0)'^Λ frames on the SCC 708. is m is an integer greater than 0. In this exemple, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of the frame 911 transmitted in the frame period 992. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to the frame 912 and the frame 914 transmitted on the SCC 708 in the subséquent frame period 994 and frame period 996, respectively. As described supra, the eNB 702 20 acquires the unlicensed spectrum in the time period 960 and then transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 961 on the SCC 708 to inform the UE 704 the start of the frame 912. Upon detecting the start of the frame 912, the UE 704 communîcates the frame 912 in accordance with the elMTA configuration, simîlarly to what described above regarding FIGs. 7-8. Subsequently, the UE 704 may 2= similarly detect the start ofthe frame 914. Upon detecting the start ofthe frame 914, the UE 704 communicates the frame 914 in accordance with the elMTA configuration.

[0088] Referring back to FIG. 7, în one scénario, the elMTA configuration may indicate the followingallocationDDDSUUUUUS. Asdescribedabove,thetransmissionof ίο the partial frame 712 starts at a downlink subframe. If the eNB 702 does not obtain channel access until, for example, the subframe period 774, the UE 704 will not detect a downlink subframe and will not communicate with the eNB 702 in the frame period 792. Thus, the subframe periods 774-779 may be wasted, as the eNB 702 has declared the subframes in those periods to be uplink subframes. In one technique, if the UE

704 détermines that the elMTA configuration received is not valid, then the UE 704 may assume that the next few subframes are downlink subframes. In this example, the UE 704 may assume that the subframes 744-749 are downlink subframes. Accordingly, the eNB 702, aware of the assumption of the UE 704, may transmit on s subframes 744-749 after acquiring the unlicensed spectrum, for example, in the subframe perîod 774. Altemativeïy, the UE 704 may hâve a default elMTA configuration, and the eNB 702 and the UE 704 can use the default elMTA configuration in this scénario. In another technique, în the above scénario, the UE 704 may assume that the eNB 702 would be inactive until the start of the next radio ία frame (Le., the frame 714).

[0089] In another scénario, the uplink grant in a subframe may not match with the elMTA configuration. For example, the elMTA configuration may indicate an allocation of DDDDDDDSUUforthepartialframe712. TheUE704,however,subsequently detects an uplink grant for the subframe 746, which is in conflict with the downlink is subframe allocation for the subframe 746 in accordance with the elMTA configuration. In one technique, the UE 704 may operate in accordance with the uplink grant. That is, the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration. In another technique, the UE 704 may assume that the uplink grant in conflict is a false alarm.

[0090] In another scénario, the UE 704, for example, receives from the eNB 702 an elMTA ïo configuration in the subframe 730 of the frame 713. At the same time, the UE 704 receives the subframe 750, which is a downlink subframe, on the SCC 708. Further, the elMTA configuration may allocate the subframe 751, for example, as a downlink subframe or a spécial subframe, and the UE 704 needs to process the elMTA configuration in the subframe period 780, which is typically about 1 ms, in order to 2: communicate the subframe 751 with the eNB 702 in accordance with the allocation of the elMTA configuration. If the UE 704 takes a time period longer than the subframe period 780 to process the elMTA configuration and détermine the allocation for the subframe 751, the UE 704 may not be able to utilize the subframe 751.

[0091] For example, in one technique, if the UE 704 needs 1.5 ms to process the elMTA sa configuration, the eNB 702 may inform the UE 704 that the elMTA configuration allocates the initial two subframes as downlink subframes. Thus, upon receiving the elMTA configuration in the subframe 730, the UE 704 may use the subframe periods 780-781 to process the elMTA configuration. In other words, the eNB 702 allocates a number of initial subframes (e.g., 2, 3, or 4 subframes) as downlink subframes in

[0092] [0093] [0094] accordance with the time period needed by the UE 704 to process the elMTA configuration to provide the UE 704 sufficient processing time.

Altematively, the UE 704 may buffer the subframes received during the processing time period and process the buffered subframes after the UE 704 has processed the elMTA configuration to détermine the allocation of the buffered subframes. For example, upon receiving the elMTA configuration in the subframe 730, the UE 704 knows that the subframe 750 is a downlink subframe, and may buffer and delay processing the subframe 751 until the UE 704 has processed the elMTA configuration.

In another technique, the eNB 702 may transmit the elMTA configuration for the frame 714 în the frame 711, thus allowing the UE 704 sufficient time to process the elMTA configuration. In other words, the eNB 702 transmits the elMTA configuration to be used in a frame period in the frame period prior to that frame period.

FIG. 10 is a diagram 1000 illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a PCC and an SCC in another configuration. The PCC 706 is illustrated with frames 1011 and 1013 overlapping frame periods 1092 and 1094, respectïvely. The frame 1011 includes subframes 1020-1029 overlapping subframe periods 1070-1079, respectïvely. The frame 1013 includes subframes 1030-1039 overlapping subframe periods 1080-1089, respectïvely. The SCC 708 is illustrated with frames 1012 and 1014 overlapping frame periods 1092 and 1094, respectively. The frame 1012 includes subframes 1047-1049 overlapping subframe periods 1077-1079, respectively. Discovery signais 1067, an interférence time period 1060, and channel réservation and access indication signais 1061 (e.g., a D-CUBS) are prior to the frame 1012. The frame 1014 includes subframes 1050-1059 overlapping subframe periods 1080-1089, respectively. A discovery window 1064 overlaps subframe periods 10701084.

In this configuration, the eNB 702 may periodically transmit one or more discovery signais in a discovery window on the SCC 708 in the unlicensed spectrum. For example, the eNB 702 may allocate a discovery window 1064 that occupées 15 subframe periods. Particularly, the discovery window 1064 starts from the subframe period 1070 ofthe frame period 1092 and ends at subframe period 1084 ofthe frame period 1094. In this example, the eNB 702 transmits one or more discovery signais [0095]

1067 on the SCC 708 in the discovery window 1064. The one or more discovery signais 1067 may overlap the interférence time period 1060 on the SCC 708.

[0096] In one technique, the eNB 702 may transmit an elMTA configuration in the subframe

1020 ofthe frame 1011 transmitted in the frame period 1092 on the PCC 706. The s elMTA configuration may indicate allocation of subframes to be applîed in one frame (e.g., a frame transmitted in the frame period 1092.) Further, the eNB 702 transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 1061 after finishing transmitting the one or more discovery signais în the subframe periods 1070-1076. Upon receiving the channel réservation and access indication signais 1061, the UE 704 can détermine io that the transmission of the frame 1012 starts at the beginning of the subframe period 1077. Altematively, the eNB 702 may transmit the elMTA configuration in the subframe 1027 ofthe frame 1011 transmitted in the subframe period 1077 (i.e., the first downlink subframe after the channel réservation and access indication signal 1061). The UE 704 then processes and communicates the frame 1012 in accordance with the elMTA configuration. Further, the eNB 702 transmits the elMTA configuration in the subframe 1030 ofthe frame 1013 that is transmitted in the frame period 1094 on the PCC 706. Upon receiving the elMTA configuration, the UE 704 appl îes the elMTA configuration to the frame 1014 transm itted on the SCC 708 during the frame period 1094.

[0097] Further, as described supra, if UE 704 does not detect the channel réservation and access indication signais 1061 in the downlink subframes as indicated in the elMTA configuration, the UE 704 may override the elMTA configuration in the current frame with a default configuration indicated in a previously received RRC message.

[0098] FIG. 11 is a diagram 1100 illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an ?5 eNB on a PCC and an SCC ïn another configuration. The PCC 706 is illustrated with frames 1111 and 1113 overlapping frame periods 1192 and 1194, respectively. The frame 1111 includes subframes 1120-1129 overlapping subframe periods 1170-1179, respectively. The frame 1113 includes subframes 1130-1139 overlapping subframe periods 1180-1189, respectively. The SCC 708 is illustrated with virtual frames 1112 το and 1114 starting within frame periods 1192 and 1194, respectively. The virtual frame 1112 includes subframes 1140-1149 overlapping subframe periods 1172-1181, respectively. An interférence time period 1160 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1161 (e.g., a D-CUBS) are prior to the virtual frame 1112. The virtual frame 1114 may include subframes 1150-1159 starting in the subframe period

1184. An interférence time period 1164 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1165 (e.g., a D-CUBS) are prior to the frame 1114.

[0099] In this configuration, the eNB 702 may transmit an elMTA configuration in the subframe 1120 of the frame 1111 on the PCC 706. The elMTA configuration may s indicate allocation of subframes to be applied to frames on the SCC 708 in one or more frame periods (Le., an elMTA configuration period). In this example, the elMTA configuration is to be applied to an elMTA configuration period including the frame period 1192 and the frame period 1194. As described supra, the eNB 702 may use the time period 1160 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. After acquîring the io unlicensed spectrum, in this configuration, the eNB 702 may transmit channel réservation and access indication signais 1161 on the SCC 708 to inform the UE 704 the start ofthe vîrtual frame 1112 that is a full length frame starting in the frame period 1192 and ending in the frame period 1194. In this example, the virtual frame 1112 starts at the subframe period 1173 and ends at the subframe period 1181, or may begin is upon completion of a D-CUBS and end one frame later regardless of the subframe alignment. Accordingly, upon receivîng the channel réservation and access indication signais 1161, the UE 704 can détermine that the vîrtual frame 1112 starts at the beginning of the subframe period 1173. The UE 704 then processes and communicates the virtual frame 1112 in accordance with the elMTA configuration.

[00100] After communîcating the virtual frame 1112, the eNB 702 may détermine that the current time is stïll within the elMTA configuration period, and may accordingly use the time period 1164 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum again. After acquiring the unlicensed spectrum, the eNB 702 may transmit channel réservation and access indication signais 1165 on the SCC 708 to inform the UE 704 the start ofthe virtual frame 1114. In one technique, the virtual frame 1114 may be a full length frame starting in the frame period 1194 and ending in the frame period 1196 subséquent to the frame period 1194. In other words, the virtual frame 1114 contains subframes 1150-1159. In another technique, the virtual frame 1114 may ends at the boundaryof the frame period 1194 (i.e., the end of the elMTA configuration period). In other so words, the virtual frame 1114 contains subframes 1150-1155.

[00101] Further, when the frame period 1196 is allocated as the discovery window described supra and the subframes (Le., subframes 1156-1159) ofthe virtual frame 1114 in the frame period 1196 are one or more uplink subframes that may interfère with the discovery window, the eNB 702 and/or the UE 704 can truncate the virtual frame

1114 at the boundary of the frame period 1194. Further, the UE 704 can détermine whether to truncate the virtual frame 1114 based on the start position of the virtual frame 1114 relative to discovery wïndow and the elMTA configuration.

[00102] FIG. 12 is a diagram 1200 illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an s eNB on a carrier in a configuration. An eNB 1202 communicates with a UE 1204 on a carrier 1208 in a TDD mode. Consecutive frame periods 1292 and 1294 hâve subframe periods 1270-1279 and subframe periods 1280-1289, respectively. The carrier 1208 is lllustrated with frames 1212 and 1214 overiapping the frame periods 1292 and 1294, respectively. The frame 1212 includes subframes 1241-1249 το overiapping the subframe periods 1271-1279, respectively. An interférence time period 1260 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1261 (e.g., a DCUBS) are prior to the frame 1212. The frame 1214 includes subframes 1250-1259 overiapping the subframe periods 1280-1289, respectively. As described supra, a frame transmitted on the carrier 1208 may hâve downlink subframes (D), uplink n subframes (U), and/or spécial subframes (S) in accordance with an elMTA configuration. Further, the carrier 1208 is in the unlicensed spectrum.

[00103] The UE 1204 may détermine frame periods of used by the eNB 1202 based on, for example, synchronization information transmitted by the eNB 1202 on a carrier in the licensed spectrum. Upon deciding to communicate data with the UE 1204 on the λ carrier 1208, the eNB 1202 attempts to acquire the unlicensed spectrum using the réservation mechanism of the RAT sharing the unlicensed spectrum. For example, if the unlicensed spectrum is shared by the IEEE 802.11, the eNB 1202 may use various medium access / random access procedures to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. It may take the eNB 1202 the time period 1260 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum.

?s After acquiring the unlicensed spectrum, the eNB 1202 may start communicating data with the UE 1204 in the next subframe period. In this example, the time period 1260 is within the subframe period 1270 ofthe frame period 1292. Subsequently, the eNB 1202 transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 1261 on the carrier 1208 to inform the UE 1204 the start of the frame 1212, which includes subframes » 1241-1249. The eNB 1202 may transmît an elMTA configuration in a subframe of the frame 1212. In one technique, the frame 1212 starts with a downlink subframe.

[00104] In one option, the elMTA configuration indicates that the periodicity (T) of the elMTA configuration îs 10 subframes (l.e., T = 10). In one technique, the eNB 1202 may transmit the elMTA configuration in any downlink subframe ofthe frame 1212.

The elMTA configuration further indicates that the allocation îs to be used for the frame 12I4 subséquent to the frame 1212.

[00105] In one technique, if UE 1204 is not able to detect an elMTA configuration in the frame

1212, but is able to detect an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe 5 (e.g., the subframe 1250) of the frame 1214, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial downlink subframe for the frame 1214, Alternative, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in a default elMTA configuration sent in an eSIB for the frame 1214.

[00106] In another technique, the eNB 1202 transmits the elMTA configuration in a first to downlink subframe (Le., the subframe 1241) of the frame 1212. The elMTA configuration may indicate that the allocation is for the current frame. Upon receiving the elMTA configuration in the first downlink subframe (Le., the subframe 1241) of the frame 1212, the UE 1204 processes the elMTA configuration and communicates the remaining subframes (Le., the subframes 1242-1249) in accordance with the is allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration.

[00107] FIG. 13 is a diagram 1300 illustrating wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a carrier in another configuration. Consecutive frame periods 1392 and 1394 hâve subframe periods 1370-1379 and subframe periods 1380-1389, respectively. A frame period 1396 is subséquent to the frame period 1394. The carrier 1208 is 20 illustrated with frames 1311, 1312, and 1314 overlapping the frame periods 1392, 1394, and 1396, respectively. The frame 1311 includes subframes 1321-1329 overlapping the subframe periods 1371-1379, respectively. An interférence time period 1360 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1361 (e.g., a DCUBS) are prior to the frame 1311. The frame 1312 includes subframes 1340-1349 overlapping the subframe periods 1380-1389, respectively. The frame 1314 includes subframes 1350-1359 overlapping the frame period 1396.

[00108] In this configuration, the elMTA configuration indicates allocation of the subframes that is to be applied to multiple frames on the carrier 1208. For example, the periodicity (T) of the elMTA configuration may indicate an elMTA configuration ίο period that has 20,40, or 80 subframes (Le., T = 20,40, or 80). In one technique, the elMTA configuration indicated in a subframe in the (mZT10)'^A frame (Le., a frame in the (m771O)^rt frame period), which is in a current elMTA configuration period, is to be used for the (mTZIO + 1)'*, (mZ/10 + 2)*,... , (m + 1)7710)'* frames, which are in the next elMTA configuration period. M is an integer greaterthan 0. In this example.

the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of the frame 1311 transmitted in the frame period 1392 and may indicate that the elMTA configuration period includes the frame period 1394 and the frame period 1396. In other words, the elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to the s frame 1312 and the frame 1314 transmitted on the carrier 1208 in the subséquent frame period 1394 and frame period 1396, respectively. As described supra, the eNB 1202 acquires the unlîcensed spectrum in the time period 1360 and then transmits channel réservation and access indication signais 1361 on the carrier 1208 to inform the UE 1204 the start ofthe frame 1311.

[00109] In one technique, the eNB 1202 may send an elMTA configuration in a physical frame format îndicator channel (PFFÏCH) of the first frame transmitted in one elMTA configuration period to indicate subframe allocations for ail the frames starting within that elMTA configuration period. The PFFICH may be transmitted at the beginnîng of each frame. In this example, the elMTA configuration may be sent in the PFFICH is of the frame 1312 and may apply to both the frame 1312 and the frame 1314.

Optionally, the eNB 1202 may send the elMTA configuration in the PFFICH of each frame starting within the elMTA configuration period.

[00110] In another technique, the eNB 1202 may send an elMTA configuration in the PFFICH of the last frame (e.g., the frame 1311) starting within the current elMTA configuration period to indicate subframe allocations for ail the frames (e.g., the frames 1312,1314) starting within the next elMTA configuration period.

[00111] If UE 1204 is not able to detect an elMTA configuration in the frame 1311, but is able to detect an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe ofthe frame 1312, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial 25 downlink subframe for both the frame 1312 and the frame 1314 (Z.e., the frames within the periodicity). Alternative, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in a default elMTA configuration sent in an eSIB for both the frame 1312 and the frame 1314.

[00112] In one technique, the UE 1204 is configured such that the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration when there is a conflict at a subframe, as the eNB 1202 m transmits uplink grants only in the current frame and uplink grants are not valid across frames.

[00113] In another technique, the elMTA configuration may be transmitted in multiple downlink subframes ofthe frame 1311. For example, the eNB 1202 may transmit the elMTA configuration in the subframe 1321, the subframe 1323, and the subframe

[00114] [00115] [00116]

1325. The UE 1204 may assume that the elMTA configuration detected in multiple downlink subframes of a single frame are the same and indicate the same allocation. In another technique, the eNB 1202 may send the elMTA configuration in the PFFICH, which overrides any prevîously sent elMTA configuration. In yet another technique, the eNB 1202 may use common search space based enhanced physical downlink control channel (EPDCCH) to send the elMTA configuration in the DCI Format IC.

FIG. 14 is a diagram 1400 illustratîng wireless communication between a UE and an eNB on a carrier în another configuration. Consecutive frame periods 1492 and 1494 hâve subframe periods 1470-1479 and subframe periods 1480-1489, respectively. A frame period 1496 is subséquent to the frame period 1494. The carrier 1208 is illustrated with virtual frames 1412 and 1414 starting with the frame periods 1492 and 1494, respectively. The virtual frame 1412 includes subframes 1440-1449 overlapping the subframe periods 1472-1481, respectively. An interférence time period 1460 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1461 (e.g., a DCUBS) are prior to the virtual frame 1412. The virtual frame 1414 may include subframes 1450-1459 overlapping the periods 1494 and 1496. An interférence time period 1464 and channel réservation and access indication signais 1465 (e.g., a DCUBS) are prior to the virtual frame 1414.

In this configuration, the eNB 1202 may use the time period 1460 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum. After acquîring the unlicensed spectrum, the eNB 1202 may transmit channel réservation and access indication signais 1461 on the carrier 1208 to inform the UE 1204 the start ofthe virtual frame 1412. In this example, the channel réservation and access indication signais 1461 are transmitted prior to the subframe period 1473 of the frame period 1492. Accordingly, upon receiving the channel réservation and access indication signais 1461, the UE 1204 can détermine that the virtual frame 1412 starts at the beginning ofthe subframe period 1473. Further, the eNB 1202 may transmit an elMTA configuration in a subframe ofthe virtual frame 1412. The elMTA configuration may indicate allocation of subframes to be applied to frames on the carrier 1208 in one or more frame periods (i.e., an elMTA configuration period). In this example, the elMTA configuration is to be applied to the frame period 1492 and the subséquent frame period 1494. The eNB 1202 may détermine that the virtual frame 1412 is a full-length frame starting in the frame period 1492 and ending in the frame period 1494. In this example, the virtual frame 1412

[00117] [00118] [00119] [00120] starts at subframe period 1473 of the frame period 1092 and ends at the subframe period 1481 of the frame period 1494. The UE 1204 then processes and communicates the virtual frame 1412 in accordance with the elMTA configuration.

After communicating the virtual frame 1412, the eNB 1202 may, within the frame period 1494, use the time period 1464 to acquire the unlicensed spectrum again. Then, the eNB 1202 may transmit channel réservation and access indication signais 1465 on the carrier 1208 to inform the UE 1204 the start of the virtual frame 1414. In one technique, the virtual frame 1414 may be a full-length frame starting în the frame period 1494 and ending in the frame period 1496 subséquent to the frame period 1494. In other words, the virtual frame 1414 contains subframes 1450-1459. In another technique, the virtual frame 1414 may ends at the boundary ofthe frame period 1494 (/.?., the end ofthe elMTA configuration period). In other words, the virtual frame 1414 contains subframes 1450-1455.

ïn one technique, the eNB 1202 may send an elMTA configuration in a PFFICH of the fîrst frame transmitted în one elMTA configuration period to indicate subframe allocations for ail the virtual frames starting within the elMTA configuration period. The PFFICH may be transmitted at the beginning of each virtual frame. In thîs example, the elMTA configuration may be sent in the PFFICH of the virtual frame 1412 and may apply to both the virtual frame 1412 and the virtual frame 1414. Optionally, the eNB 1202 may send the elMTA configuration in the PFFICH of each virtual frame starting within the elMTA configuration period.

In another technique, the eNB 1202 may send an elMTA configuration în the PFFICH of the last virtual frame (e.g., the virtual frame 1414) starting within the current elMTA configuration period to indicate subframe allocations for ail the virtual frames starting within the next elMTA configuration period.

Further, when the frame period 1496 is allocated as the discovery window described supra and the subframes (/.e., the subframes 1456-1459) of the virtual frame 1414 in the frame period 1496 are one or more uplink subframes that may interféré with the discovery window, the eNB 1202 and/or the UE 1204 can truncate the virtual frame 1414 at the boundary ofthe frame period 1494. Further, the UE 1204 can détermine whether to truncate the virtual frame 1414 based on the start position of the virtual frame 1414 relative to the discovery window and the elMTA configuration.

If the UE 1204 misses the cIMTA-RNTI for ail downlink subframes in the virtual frame 1412, the UE 1204 may use a default configuration indîcated in a previously [00121]

received RRC message. In addition, the UE 1204 may use the enhanced Physical Frame Format Indîcator Channel (ePFFICH) transmitted with the channel réservation and access indication signais (e.g., CUBS) to signal the elMTA configuration in each virtual frame.

[00122] FIG. 15 is a flow chart 1500 of a method of wireless communication of a UE on a PCC and an SCC. The method may be performed by a UE (e.g., the UE 704, the apparatus 2302/2302’).

[00123] At operation 1513, the UE receives first configuration information for an SCC in a first frame on a PCC from a base station. The PCC îs in a lîcensed spectrum. The io SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the UE 704 receives from the eNB 702 an elMTA configuration for the SCC 708 in the frame 711 on the PCC 706.

[00124] At operation 1516, in one configuration, the UE may receive one or more discovery is signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the first frame on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 10, the UE 704 may receive one or more discovery signais in the discovery window 1064 on the SCC 708.

[00125] At operation 1519, the UE attempts to detect a start of data transmission from the base station on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the UE 704 attempts to detect so the channel réservation and access ind ication signais 761.

[00126] In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation ofthe one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a frame 911 transmitted in a frame period 992. The r. elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration Îs to be applied to a frame 912 and a frame 914 transmitted on the SCC 708 in subséquent frame period 994 and frame period 996, respectively.

[00127] In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end ofthe one frame. When the attempt to detect w the start of data transmission is not successful, at operation 1523, the UE may communicate with the base station in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial subframe of the plurality of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration. For example, referring to FIG. 7, in one scénario, the elMTA configuration may indicate the following allocation DDDSUUUUUS.

If the eNB 702 does not obtaîn channel access until, for example, the subframe period 774, the UE 704 will not detect a downlink subframe and will not communicate with the eNB 702 in the frame period 792. The UE 704 may hâve a default elMTA configuration, and the eNB 702 and the UE 704 can use the default elMTA s configuration to communicate.

[00128] In one configuration, the receipt of the downlink subframe occurs subséquent to the receipt of the discovery signais in the discovery window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is not successful.

[00129] When the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful, the UE may, at operation 1526, receive a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. For example, refening to FIG. 7, the UE 704 receives a U downlink subframe from the eNB 702 in the subframe 741.

[00130] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame.

[00131| In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC. The

2o first configuration information is received on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame.

[00132] In certain configurations, subséquent to operation 1526, the UE may perform one or more operations shown tn FIG. 16.

[00133] FIG. 16 is a flow chart 1600 of another method of wireless communication of a UE ?5 on a PCC and an SCC. The method may be performed by a UE (e.g., the UE 704, the apparatus 2302/2302’) subséquent to the operation 1526 shown in FIG. 15.

[00134] In one configuration, at operation 1613, the UE may transmit data to or receiving data from the base station in a last subframe ofthe first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the UE 704 may receive □o from the eNB 702 signais that are not recognizable by the UE 704 on the unlicensed spectrum during the subframe periods 777-779 in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. At operation 1616, the UE may receive second configuration information for the SCC from the base station in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. The second

configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC. At operation 1619, the UE may receive a second downlink subframe from the base station. The second downlink subframe is subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the UE 704 may receive 5 an elMTA configuration in the subframe 730 of the frame 713 on the PCC 706. The UE 704 may receive downlink subframe în the subframe 750 ofthe frame 714 on the SCC 708.

[00135] In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates that initial two subframes of the first frame on the SCC are downlink subframes.

[00136] In one configuration, the UE, at operation 1623, may buffer data received in a subframe subséquent to the downlink subframe of the at least one frame on the SCC. At operation 1626, the UE may process the first configuration information to détermine whether an allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC is a downlink subframe or a spécial subframe. At operation 1629, the UE 15 may process the buffered data in accordance with the determined allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the UE 704 may buffer the subframes received during the processing time period and process the buffered subframes after the UE 704 has processed the elMTA configuration to détermine the allocation of the buffered subframes. For example, 20 upon receiving the elMTA configuration in the subframe 730, the UE 704 knows that the subframe 750 is a downlink subframe, and may buffer and delay processing the subframe 751 until the UE 704 has processed the elMTA configuration.

[00137] In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1. In one configuration, the first configuration 25 information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a frame 911 transmitted in a frame period 992. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to a frame 912 and a frame 914 transmitted 3o on the SCC 708 in subséquent frame period 994 and frame period 996, respectîvely.

[00138] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation may allocate one or more downlink subframes consecutîvely and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 7, in one technique, the eNB 702 may ïnform the UE 704 that in a frame on the SCC 708 ail the downlink subframes are consecutive and ali the

uplink subframes are consecutive; further, the downlink subframes are allocated prior to the uplink subframes. For example, the allocation may beDDDDDSUUUS.

[00139] In one configuration, the first configuration information may indicate a plurality of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The first configuration s information may be received in an r/* subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the plurality of consecutive downlink subframes of the one frame. n is an integer. The at least one frame may include the first frame and a second frame consecutively. The receiving the downlink subframe from the base station on the SCC may be performed within a period from the r/* subframe of the m first frame to an (η - 1)'* subframe of the second frame. For example, referring to FIG. 8, the elMTA configuration is applied to from the subframe 845 of the frame 812 to the subframe 854 ofthe frame 814.

[00140] In one configuration, at operation 1633, the UE may receive an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. At operation 1636, the UE may détermine that a conflict 15 exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. At operation 1639, the UE may communîcate with the base station during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the uplink grant in a subframe may not match with the elMTA configuration. For example, the elMTA configuration may indicate an allocation of D D D D D D D S U U for the partial m frame 712. The UE 704, however, subsequently detects an uplink grant for the subframe 746, which is in conflict with the downlink subframe allocation for the subframe 746 in accordance with the elMTA configuration. In one technique, the UE 704 may operate in accordance with the uplink grant. That is, the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration.

[00141] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the SCC starting at the received downlink subframe. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames may start at the received downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. At operation 1643, the UE may detect a ^subséquent start of data so transmission from the base station on the SCC subséquent to a frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (M -1 ). The (k + 1 )'* frame ofthe M frames starts at an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the F* subséquent start. At operation 1646, the UE may communîcate data within the M frames with the base station on the

[00142] [00143] [00144] [00145]

SCC in accordance with the first allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 11, the at least one frame may include the vîrtual frame 1112 and the vîrtual frame 1114.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart 1700 of a method of wireless communication of a UE on a carrier. The method may be performed by a UE (e.g., the UE 1204, the apparatus 2302/2302’).

At operation 1713, the UE detects a start of data transmission from a base station on a carrier în a first frame. The carrier is in an unlîcensed spectrum. At operation 1716, the UE attempts to receive first configuration information on the carrier from the base station. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the UE 1204 detects the channel réservation and access indication signais 1261 from the eNB 1202 on the carrier 1208. The UE 1204 attempts to receive an elMTA configuration în the frame 1212 on the carrier 1208.

When the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is successfùl, in one configuration, the UE may, at operation 1719, receive the first configuration information in a plurality ofdownlink subframes ofthe first frame. For example, referring to FIG. 13, in one technique, the UE 1204 may receive the elMTA configuration in multiple downlink subframes ofthe frame 1311. The UE 1204 may assume that the elMTA configuration detected in multiple downlink subframes of a single frame are the same and indicate the same allocation.

At operation 1723, the UE receives a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the UE 1204 receives a downlink subframe from the eNB 1202 in the subframe 1250 in accordance with the received elMTA configuration.

In one configuration, the first subframe allocation may indicate allocation ofone or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. For example, referring to FIG. 13, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a frame 1311 transmitted în a frame period 1392. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to a frame 1312 [00146]

and a frame 1314 transmitted on the carrier 1208 in subséquent frame period 1394 and frame period 1396, respectively.

[00147] In one configuration, when the attempt to receîve the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful, the UE may, at operation 1726, receîve second s configuration Information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. At operation 1729, the UE may receive a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the carrier from the base station in accordance with the second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 12, ία in one technique, if UE 1204 is not able to detect an elMTA configuration in the frame

1212, but is able to detect an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe (e.g., a subframe 1250) of the frame 1214, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial downlink subframe for the frame 1214.

[00148] In one configuration, the at least one frame may include the first frame. The first configuration information may be received in an initial downlink subframe of the first frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1. In one configuration, when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful, îo the UE may, at operation 1733, receive second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M frames. The second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the carrier. At operation 1736, the UE may receîve from the base station a downlink subframe in each of the M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 13,ifUE 1204 is not able to detect an elMTA configuration in the frame 1311, but is able to detect an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe of the frame 1312, the UE 1204 may use the allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial downlink subframe for both the frame 1312 and the frame 1314 (i.e., the frames within the periodicity).

[00149] FIG. 18 is a flow chart 1800 of another method of wireless communication of a UE on a carrier. The method may be performed by a UE (e.g., the UE 1204, the apparatus 2302/2302*) subséquent to the operation 1723 shown in FIG. 17.

[00150] In one configuration, subséquent to the operation 1723, the UE may, at operation 1813, receive an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. At operation

[00151] [00152] [00153]

1816, the UE may déterminé that a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. At operation 1819, the UE may communicate with the base station during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the UE 1204 is configured such that the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration when there is a conflict at a subframe, as the eNB 1202 transmits uplink grants only in the current frame and uplink grants are not valîd across frames.

In one configuration, the at least one frame may include a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe. For example, referring to FIG. 14, the at least one frame may include the frame 1412. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames. M is an înteger greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames may start at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information may be received in the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. Subséquent to the operation 1723, the UE may, at operation 1823, detect a A⁷* subséquent start of data transmission from the base station on the carrier subséquent to a frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (M - I). The (Λ+ l)^rt frame ofthe M frames starts in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k”¹ subséquent start. At operation 1826, The UE may communicate data in the M frames with the base station on the carrier in accordance with the first allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 14, the at least one frame may include the virtual frame 1412 and the virtual frame 1414.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart 1900 of a method of wireless communication of a base station on a PCC and an SCC. The method may be performed by a base station (e.g., the eNB 702, the apparatus 2402/2402’).

At operation 1913, the base station transmits first configuration information for a SCC in a first frame on a PCC to a UE. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the eNB 702 transmits to the UE 704 an elMTA configuration for the SCC 708 in the frame 711 on the PCC 706.

At operation 1916, in one configuration, the base station may transmit one or more discovery signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the first frame on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 10, the eNB [00154]

[00155] [00156] [00157] [00158]

702 may transmit one or more discovery signais in the discovery window 1064 on the SCC 708.

At operation 1919, the base station attempts to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the eNB 702 attempts to transmit the channel réservation and access indication signais 761.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a frame 911 transmitted in a frame period 992. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to a frame 912 and a frame 914 transmitted on the SCC 708 in subséquent frame period 994 and frame period 996, respectively.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame. When the attempt to transmit the indicator is not successful, at operation 1923, the base station may communicate with the UE in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial subframe ofthe plurality ofconsecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration. For example, referring to FIG. 7, in one scénario, the elMTA configuration may indicate the following allocation DDDSUUUUUS. If the eNB 702 does not obtaîn channel access until, for example, the subframe period 774, the UE 704 will not detect a downlink subframe and will not communicate with the eNB 702 in the frame period 792. The UE 704 may hâve a default elMTA configuration, and the eNB 702 and the UE 704 can use the default elMTA configuration to communicate.

In one configuration, the transmission ofthe downlink subframe occurs subséquent to the transmission ofthe discovery signais in the discovery window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the indicator is not successful. When the attempt to transmit the indicator is successful, the base station may, at operation 1926, transmit a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the eNB 702 transmits a downlink subframe to the UE 704 in the subframe 741.

[00159]

[00160] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame.

[00161] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC. The s first configuration information is received on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame.

[00162] In certain configurations, subséquent to operation 1926, the base station may perform one or more operations shown in FIG. 20.

[00163] FIG. 20 is a flow chart 2000 of another method of wireless communication of a base io station on a PCC and an SCC. The method may be performed by a base station (e.g., the eNB 702, the apparatus 2402/2402*) subséquent to the operation 1926 shown in FIG. 19.

[00164] In one configuration, at operation 2013, the base station may receive data from or transmit data to the UE in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to i5 retaîn the unlicensed spectrum. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the eNB 702 may transmit signais that are not recognîzable by the UE 704 on the unlicensed spectrum during the subframe periods 777-779 in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. At operation 2016, the base station may transmit second configuration information for the SCC to the UE in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second so frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC. At operation 2019, the base station may transmit a second downlink subframe to the UE. The second downlink subframe is subséquent to the start ofthe second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the eNB 702 may transmit an elMTA r. configuration in the subframe 730 of the frame 713 on the PCC 706. The eNB 702 may transmit downlink subframe in the subframe 750 of the frame 714 on the SCC 708.

[00165] In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates that initial two subframes ofthe first frame on the SCC are downlink subframes.

[00166] In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integergreaterthan 1. In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a

frame 911 transmitted in a frame period 992. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be appiied to a frame 912 and a frame 914 transmitted on the SCC 708 in subséquent frame period 994 and frame period 996, respectively.

[00167] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation may allocate one or more downlink s subframes consecutively and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame. For example, referring to FIG. 7, in one technique, the eNB 702 may inform the UE 704 that in a frame on the SCC 708 ail the downlink subframes are consecutive and ail the uplink subframes are consecutive; further, the downlink subframes are allocated prior to the uplink subframes. For example, the allocation may beDDDDDSUUUS.

[00168] In one configuration, the first configuration information may indicate a plurality of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The first configuration information may be transmitted in an subframe ofthe first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the plurality of consecutive downlink subframes of the one frame. n is an integer. The at least one frame may include the first frame and is a second frame consecutively. The transmitting the downlink subframe to the UE on the SCC may be performed wîthîn a period from the subframe ofthe first frame to an (n - l)^rt subframe ofthe second frame. For example, referring to FIG. 8, the elMTA configuration is appiied to from the subframe 845 of the trame 812 to the subframe 854 ofthe frame 814.

[00169] In one configuration, at operation 2033, the base station may transmit an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflict may exist between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. At operation 2036, the base station may communicate with the UE during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. For example, referring to FIG. 7, the uplink grant in a subframe may not match îs with the elMTA configuration. For example, the elMTA configuration may indicate an allocation of D D D D D D D S U U for the partial frame 712. The eNB 702, however, subsequently transmits an uplink grant for the subframe 746, which is in conflict with the downlink subframe allocation for the subframe 746 in accordance with the elMTA configuration. In one technique, the eNB 702 may operate in m accordance with the uplink grant. That is, the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the SCC starting at the received downlink subframe.

[00170] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the SCC starting at the transmitted downlink subframe. In one configuration, the at least one

[00171] [00172] [00173] frame may include M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames may start at the received downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. At operation 2043, the base station may transmit to the UE a λ* subséquent indicator indicating a start of data transmission on the SCC subséquent to a À/^A frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (M - 1). The (k + 1)'^A frame of the M frames starts at an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k?^h subséquent indicator. At operation 2046, the base station may communicate data within the M frames with the UE on the SCC in accordance with the first allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 11, the at least one frame may include the virtual frame 1112 and the virtual frame 1114.

FIG. 21 is a fiow chart 2100 of a method of wireless communication of a base station on a carrier. The method may be performed by a base station (e.g., the eNB 1202, the apparatus 2402/2402*).

At operation 2113, the base station transmits an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to a UE on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlîcensed spectrum. At operation 2116, the base station attempts to transmit first configuration information on the carrier to the UE. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the eNB 1202 transmits the channel réservation and access indication signais 1261 to the UE 1204 on the carrier 1208. The eNB 1202 attempts to transmit an elMTA configuration in the frame 1212 on the carrier 1208.

When the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successful, in one configuration, the base station may, at operation 2119, transmit the first configuration information in a plurality of downlink subframes of the first frame. For example, referring to FIG. 13, in one technique, the eNB 1202 may transmit the elMTA configuration in multiple downlink subframes of the frame 1311. The eNB 1202 includes the same elMTA configuration indicating the same allocation in multiple downlink subframes of a single frame.

When the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successfùl, the base station, at operation 2123, transmits a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

[00174]

[00175] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation may indicate allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. For 5 example, referring to FIG. 13, the elMTA configuration may be included in a subframe of a frame 1311 transmitted in a frame period 1392. The elMTA configuration indicates that the elMTA configuration is to be applied to a frame 1312 and a frame 1314 transmitted on the carrier 1208 in subséquent frame period 1394 and frame period 1396, respectively.

[00176] In one configuration, when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful, the base station may, at operation 2126, transmit second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. At operation 2129, the base station may transmit a second 15 downlink subframe in the second frame on the carrier from the base station in accordance with the second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 12, in one technique, if eNB 1202 is not able to transmit an elMTA configuration in the frame 1212, but îs able to transmit an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe (e.g., a subframe 1250) of the frame 1214, the eNB 1202 may use the allocation indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial downlink subframe for the frame 1214.

[00177] In one configuration, the at least one frame may include the first frame. The first configuration information may be received in an initial downlink subframe of the first frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames subséquent 25 to the first frame. M îs an înteger greater than 1. In one configuration, when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful, the base station may, at operation 2133, transmit second configuration information În an initial downlink subframe în an initial frame of the M frames. The second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the m carrier. At operation 2136, the base station may transmit to the UE a downlink subframe în each ofthe M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 13, if eNB 1202 is not able to transmit an elMTA configuration in the frame 1311, but is able to transmit an elMTA configuration in an initial downlink subframe of the frame 1312, the eNB 1202 may use the allocation

[00178] [00179] [00180] [00181] indicated in the elMTA configuration in the initial downlink subframe for both the frame 1312 and the frame 1314 (i.e., the frames within the periodicity).

FIG. 22 is a flow chart 2200 of another method of wireless communication of a base station on a carrier. The method may be performed by a base station (e.g., the eNB 1202, the apparatus 2402/2402') subséquent to the operation 2123 shown in FIG. 21. In one configuration, subséquent to the operation 2123, the base station may, at operation 2213, transmit an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflict may exist between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. At operation 2216, the base station may communicate with the UE during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. For example, referring to FIG. 12, the uplink grant overrides the elMTA configuration when there is a conflict at a subframe, as the eNB 1202 transmits uplink grants only in the current frame and uplink grants are not valïd across frames.

In one configuration, the at least one frame may include a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe. For example, referring to FIG. 14, the at least one frame may include the frame 1412. In one configuration, the at least one frame may include M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames may start at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information may be transmitted in the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. Subséquent to the operation 2123, the base station may, at operation 2223, transmit a subséquent Îndicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE on the carrier subséquent to a A/* frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (M - 1 ). The (k +1 )'* frame ofthe M frames starts in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the kth subséquent Îndicator. At operation 2226, the base station may communicate data in the M frames with the UE on the carrier in accordance with the first allocation. For example, referring to FIG. 14, the at least one frame may include the vîrtual frame 1412 and the virtual frame 1414.

FIG. 23 îs a conceptual data flow diagram 2300 illustrating the data flow between different modules/means/components in an exemplary apparatus 2302. The apparatus may be a UE. The apparatus includes a réception module 2304, a transmission module 2310, and an elMTA module 2308.

In one aspect, the réception module 2304 may be confîgured to receive first configuration information for a SCC in a first frame on a PCC from an eNB 2350.

[001821

The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The réception module 2304 may be configured to transmit the first configuration information to the elMTA module 2308. The elMTA module 2308 may s be configured to process the first configuration information to obtain the first subframe allocation and to send the first subframe allocation to the réception module 2304 and the transmission module 2310. The réception module 2304 may be configured to attempt to detect a start of data transmission from the eNB 2350 on the SCC. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive a downlink subframe io from the eNB 2350 during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start ofthe first subframe allocation.

[00183] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or is more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC. The first configuration information is received on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame.

[00184] In one configuration, the transmission module 2310 may be configured to transmit ïo data to or the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive data from the eNB

2350 in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive second configuration information for the SCC from the eNB 2350 in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the 2^r. first frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC. The réception module 2304 may be configured to transmit the second configuration information to the elMTA module 2308. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to process the second configuration information to obtain the second subframe allocation and to send the 30 first subframe allocation to the réception module 2304 and the transmission module 2310. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive a second downlink subframe from the eNB 2350. The second downlink subframe is subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation.

[00185] [00186] [00187] [00188]

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates that initial two subframes of the first frame on the SCC are downlink subframes. In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to buffer data received in a subframe subséquent to the downlink subframe of the at least one frame on the SCC. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to process the first configuration information to détermine whether an allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC is a downlink subframe or a spécial subframe. The réception module 2304 and/or the transmission module 2310 may be configured to process the buffered data in accordance with the determined allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC.

In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive one or more discovery signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the first frame on the SCC. The attempting to detect the start of the data transmission is performed in a subframe on the SCC subséquent to the receipt of the discovery signais in the discovery window. In one configuration, the receipt of the downlink subframe occurs subséquent to the receipt of the discovery signais in the discovery window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is not successful.

In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1. In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame. In one configuration, the first subframe allocation allocates one or more downlink subframes consecutively and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The first configuration information is received in an iP subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the plurality of consecutive downlink subframes of the one frame. n is an integer. The at least one frame includes the first frame and a second frame consecutively. The receiving the downlink subframe from the eNB 2350 on the SCC is performed within a period from the n¹* subframe of the first frame to an (n - 1)'^A subframe ofthe second frame.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame. The réception module 2304 [00189]

and/or the transmission module 2310 may be configured to communicate with the eNB 2350 in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initia! subframe of the plurality of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start ofdata transmission is not successful.

[00190] In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to détermine that a confiict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The réception module 2304 and/or the transmission module 2310 may be configured to communicate with the eNB 2350 during the at least one ίο frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

[00191] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame of the M frames starts at the received downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. At operation 1643, the réception module 2304 may be configured to detect a k? subséquent start of data transmission 15 from the eNB 2350 on the SCC subséquent to a k?^h frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = I to (M - 1). The (k + l)^rt frame of the M frames starts at an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k^ subséquent start. The réception module 2304 and/or the transmission module 2310 may be configured to communicate data within the M frames with the eNB 2350 on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe 20 allocation.

[00192] In another aspect, the réception module 2304 may be configured to detect a start of data transmission from an eNB 2350 on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The réception module 2304 may be configured to attempt to receive first configuration information on the carrier from the eNB 2350. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The réception module 2304 may be configured to transmit the first configuration information to the elMTA module 2308. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to process the first configuration information to obtain the first subframe allocation and to send the first subframe allocation to the réception module m 2304 and the transmission module 2310. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive a downlink subframe from the eNB 2350 during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the fîrst subframe allocation.

[00193] In one configuration, the fîrst subframe allocation indicates allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial 5 subframes in the at least one frame.

[00194] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the fîrst frame. In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information indicates a io second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. The réception module 2304 may be configured to transmit the second configuration information to the elMTA module 2308. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to process the second configuration information to obtain the second subframe allocation and to send the second subframe allocation to the réception module 2304 and the transmission is module 2310. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive a second downlink subframe în the second frame on the carrier from the eNB 2350 in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the fîrst configuration information on the carrier is not successfùl.

[00195] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the fîrst frame. The fîrst configuration information is received in an initial downlink subframe of the fîrst frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the fîrst frame. M is an integer greater than 1. In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M frames. The second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the carrier. The réception module 2304 may be configured to receive from the eNB 2350 a downlink subframe in each ofthe M frames in accordance with the second allocation when the attempt to receive the fîrst configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

[00196] In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. The elMTA module 2308 may be configured to détermine that a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the fîrst subframe allocation. The réception module 2304 and/or the transmission module

2310 may be configured to communicate with the eNB 2350 during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

[00197] In one configuration, the réception module 2304 may be configured to receive the first configuration information in a plurality of downlink subframes of the first frame. In s one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame of the M frames starts at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information is received in the downlink subframe subséquent to the io start ofthe data transmission. The réception module 2304 may be configured to detect a subséquent start of data transmission from the eNB 2350 on the carrier subséquent to a kth frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (Μ - I). The (k + 1)'^A frame of the M frames starts in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the subséquent start. The réception module 2304 and/or the transmission module 15 2310 may be configured to communicate data in the M frames with the eNB 2350 on the carrier in accordance with the first allocation.

[00198] The apparatus may include additional modules that perform each of the blocks of the algorithm in the aforementioned fiow charts of FIGs. 15-18. As such, each block in the aforementioned fiow charts of FIGs. 15-18 may be performed by a module and 23 the apparatus may include one or more of those modules. The modules may be one or more hardware components specifically configured to carry out the stated processes/algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to perform the stated processes/algorithm, stored within a computer-readable medium for implémentation by a processor, or some combination thereof.

[00199] FIG. 24 is a conceptual data fiow diagram 2400 illustrating the data fiow between different modules/means/components in another exemplary apparatus 2402. The apparatus may be an eNB. The apparatus includes a réception module 2404, a transmission module 2410, and an elMTA module 2408.

[00200] In one aspect, the elMTA module 2408 may be configured to transmit first

3o configuration information for an SCC to the transmission module 2410. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit the first configuration information în a first frame on a PCC to a UE 2450. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlîcensed spectrum.

[00201] The transmission module 2410 may be configured to attempt to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE 2450 in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit a downlink subframe to the UE 2450 during the at least one frame on the s SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the indicator is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start ofthe first subframe allocation.

[00202] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial ία subframes în the at least one frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC. The first configuration information is transmitted on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame. In one configuration, the réception module 2404 may be configured to receive data from or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit data to the UE 2450 in a last subframe of 15 the first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum.

[00203] In one configuration, the elMTA module 2408 may be configured to transmit second configuration information for the SCC to the transmission module 2410. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit the second 2o configuration information to the UE 2450 in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit a second downlink subframe to the UE 2450. The second downlink subframe is subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation.

[00204] In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates that initial two subframes of the first frame on the SCC are downlink subframes. In one configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit one or more discovery signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the first frame on the SCC. The attempting to transmit the indicator is performed in a subframe on the SCC subséquent to the transmission of the discovery signais in the discovery window.

[00205] In one configuration, the transmission of the downlink subframe occurs subséquent to the transmission of the discovery signais in the discovery window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the indicator is not successful.

[00206] [00207] [00208] [00209] [00210]

In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates the first allocation of subframes in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame.

In one configuration, the first subframe allocation allocates one or more downlink subframes consecutively and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame. In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a pluralîty of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The first configuration information is transmitted in an rf^h subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the pluralîty of consecutive downlink subframes of the one frame. n is an integer. The at least one frame includes the first frame and a second frame consecutively. The transmitting the downlink subframe to the UE 2450 on the SCC is performed within a period from the nth subframe of the first frame to an (n - 1)'* subframe ofthe second frame.

In one configuration, the first configuration information indicates a pluralîty of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame. The réception module 2404 and/or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to communicate with the UE 2450 in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial subframe of the pluralîty of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the indicator is not

In one configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The réception module 2404 and/or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to communicate with the UE 2450 during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the SCC starting at the transmitted downlink subframe. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame of the M frames starts at the transmitted downlink subframe subséquent to the start ofthe data transmission. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit to the UE 2450 a F* subséquent indicator indicating a start of data transmission on the SCC subséquent to a frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to (M - 1). The (k + 1)'^A frame of the M frames starts at an initia! downlink subframe subséquent to the k?^h subséquent îndicator. The réception module 2404 and/or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to communicate data within the M frames with the UE 2450 on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation.

[00211] In another aspect, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE 2450 on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The elMTA module 2408 may be configured to transmit first configuration information to the transmission module 2410. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to io attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier to the UE 2450.

The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit a downlink subframe to the UE 2450 during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data i; transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

[00212] In one configuration, the first subframe allocation indicates allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. In one 20 configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit second configuration information în an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the carrier to the UE 2450 in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

[00213] In one configuration, the at least one frame includes the first frame. The first configuration information is transmitted in an initial downlink subframe of the first frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to 3o the first frame. M îs an integer greater than 1. In one configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit second configuration information în an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M frames. The second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the carrier. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit to the UE 2450

[00214] [00215] [00216] a downlink subframe in each of the M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

In one configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflîct exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The réception module 2404 and/or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to communicate with the UE 2450 during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

In one configuration, the transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit the first configuration information in a plurality ofdownlink subframes ofthe first frame. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe. In one configuration, the at least one frame includes M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames starts at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information is transmitted in the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The transmission module 2410 may be configured to transmit a kth subséquent indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE 2450 on the carrier subséquent to a À/^A frame of the M frames. k is an integer and k = 1 to(M-1). The(t+1 )'^A frame ofthe M frames starts in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k?¹ subséquent indicator. The réception module 2404 and/or the transmission module 2410 may be configured to communicate data in the M frames with the UE 2450 on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation.

The apparatus may include additîonal modules that perform each ofthe blocks ofthe algorithm in the aforementioned fiow charts of FIGs. 19-22. As such, each block in the aforementioned fiow charts of FIGs. 19-22 may be performed by a module and the apparatus may include one or more of those modules. The modules may be one or more hardware components specifically configured to carry out the stated processes/algorithm, implemented by a processor configured to perform the stated processes/algorithm, stored within a computer-readable medium for implémentation by a processor, or some combination thereof.

FIG. 25 ïs a diagram 2500 illustrating an example of a hardware implémentation for an apparatus 2302' employing a processîng System 2514. The processîng System 2514 may be implemented with a bus architecture, represented generally by the bus 2524.

[00217]

The bus 2524 may include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges depending on the spécifie application of the processing system 2514 and the overall design constraints. The bus 2524 links together various circuits including one or more processors and/or hardware modules, represented by the processor 2504, the modules s 2304,2308,2310, and the computer-readable medium / memory 2506. The bus 2524 may also link various other circuits such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art, and therefore, will not be described any further.

[00218] The processing system 2514 may be coupled to a transceiver 2510. The transceiver io 2510 is coupled to one or more antennas 2520. The transceiver 2510 provides a means for communicating with various other apparatus over a transmission medium. The transceiver 2510 receives a signal from the one or more antennas 2520, extracts information from the received signal, and provides the extracted information to the processing system 2514, specifically the réception module 2304. In addition, the i5 transceiver 2510 receives information from the processing system 2514, specifically the transmission module 2310, and based on the received information, generates a signal to be applied to the one or more antennas 2520. The processing system 2514 includes a processor 2504 coupled to a computer-readable medium / memory 2506. The processor 2504 is responsible for general processing, including the execution of a software stored on the computer-readable medium / memory 2506. The software, when executed by the processor 2504, causes the processing system 2514 to perform the various functions described supra for any particular apparatus. The computerreadable medium / memory 2506 may also be used for storing data that is manipulated by the processor 2504 when executing software. The processing system further includes at least one of the modules 2304, 2308, and 2310. The modules may be software modules running in the processor 2504, resident/stored in the computer readable medium / memory 2506, one or more hardware modules coupled to the processor 2504, or some combination thereof. The processing system 2514 may be a component of the UE 650 and may include the memory 660 and/or at least one ofthe TX processor 668, the RX processor 656, and the controller/processor 659.

[00219] In one configuration, the apparatus 2302/2302* for wireless communication includes means for receiving first configuration information for SCC in a first frame on a PCC from a base station. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an unlîcensed

[00220] [00221] [00222] spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The apparatus 2302/2302' includes means for attempting to detect a start of data transmission from the base station on the SCC. The apparatus 2302/2302' includes means for receiving a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

The first subframe allocation may indicate an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. The at least one frame may include the first frame on the SCC. The first configuration information is received on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame.

The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for transmitting data to or receiving data from the base station in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving second configuration information for the SCC from the base station in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving a second downlink subframe from the base station. The second downlink subframe is subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation. The first configuration information may indicate that initial two subframes of the first frame on the SCC are downlink subframes.

The apparatus 2302/2302* may include means for buffering data received in a subframe subséquent to the downlink subframe of the at least one frame on the SCC. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for processing the first configuration information to détermine whether an allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC îs a downlink subframe or a spécial subframe. The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for processing the buffered data in accordance with the determined allocation of the subframe subséquent to the initial subframe on the SCC.

[00223] [00224] [00225] [00226]

The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving one or more discovery signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the first frame on the SCC. The means for attemptîng to detect the start of data transmission may be configured to attempt to detect the start of the data transmission in a subframe on the SCC subséquent to the receipt of the discovery signais in the discovery window.

The means for receiving the one or more discovery signais may be configured to receive the downlink subframe subséquent to the receipt of the discovery signais in the discovery window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is not successful. The at least one frame may include M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1. The first configuration information may indicate the first subframe allocation in one frame. The first allocation of the one frame may be appiied to each frame of the at least one frame. The first subframe allocation may allocate one or more downlink subframes consecutively and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame.

The first configuration information may indicate a plurality of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The means for receiving first configuration information may be configured to receive the first configuration information in an subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the plurality of consecutive downlink subframes of the one frame, n being an integer. The at least one frame may include the first frame and a second frame consecutively. The means for receiving the downlink subframe may be configured to receive the downlink subframe from the base station on the SCC within a period from the subframe of the first frame to an (n - l)^rt subframe ofthe second frame.

The first configuration information may indicate a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end ofthe one frame. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for communicating with the base station in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial subframe ofthe plurality ofconsecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is not successful.

The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for receiving an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for determining that a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe [00227]

[00228]

100229] allocation. The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for communicating with the base station during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. The at least one frame may include a second frame on the SCC startîng at the received downlink subframe.

The at least one frame may include M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame ofthe M frames may start at the received downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The apparatus 2302/2302* may include means for detecting a A/* subséquent start of data transmission from the base station on the SCC subséquent to a frame of the M frames, k being an integer and k = 1 to (M 1). The (k + 1)^,A frame of the M frames starts at an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k?¹ subséquent start. The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for communicating data within the M frames with the base station on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation.

In another configuration, the apparatus 2302/2302’ includes means for detecting a start of data transmission from a base station on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The apparatus 2302/2302' includes means for attempting to receive first configuration information on the carrier from the base station. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for receiving a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. The first subframe allocation may indicate allocation ofone or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. The at least one frame may include a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame.

The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the carrier from the base station in [00230]

accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is not successfûl.

[00231] The at least one frame may include the first frame. The means for receiving the first configuration may be configured to receive the first configuration information in an s initial downlink subframe of the first frame. The at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame, M being an integer greater than 1.

[00232] The apparatus 2302/2302’ may include means for receiving second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M fiâmes. The second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving from the base station a downlink subframe in each of the M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

[00233] The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving an uplink grant associated is with the at least one frame. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for determining that a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for communicating with the base station during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. The apparatus 2302/2302' may include means for receiving the first configuration information in a plurality of downlink subframes of the first frame. The at least one frame may include a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe.

[00234] The at least one frame includes M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame of the M frames may start at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information may be received in the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The apparatus 2302/2302* may include means for detecting a subséquent start of data transmission from the base station on the carrier subséquent to a À⁷* frame of the M frames. A is an integer and k = 1 to (M - 1). The (k + 1)'* frame of the M frames may start in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k?^h subséquent start. The apparatus 2302/2302' x» may include means for communicating data in the M fiâmes with the base station on the carrier in accordance with the first allocation.

[00235] The aforementioned means may be one or more of the aforementioned modules of the apparatus 2302 and/or the processing System 2514 of the apparatus 2302’ configured

to perform the fonctions récited by the aforementioned means. As described supra, the processing System 2514 may include the TX Processor 668, the RX Processor 656, and the controller/processor 659. As such, in one configuration, the aforementioned means may be the TX Processor 668, the RX Processor 656, and the s controller/processor 659 configured to perform the fonctions recited by the aforementioned means.

[00236] FIG. 26 is a diagram 2600 illustrating an example of a hardware implémentation for an apparatus 2402’ employing a processing System 2614. The processing System 2614 may be implemented with a bus architecture, represented generally by the bus 2624.

io The bus 2624 may include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges depending on the spécifie application of the processing System 2614 and the overall design constraints. The bus 2624 links together various circuits including one or more processors and/or hardware modules, represented by the processor 2604, the modules 2404,2408,2410, and the computer-readable medium / memory 2606. The bus 2624 is may also link various other circuits such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art, and therefore, will not be described any further.

[00237] The processing System 2614 may be coupled to a transceïver 2610. The transceiver 2610 is coupled to one or more antennas 2620. The transceiver 2610 provides a means 2o for communicating with various other apparatus over a transmission medium. The transceiver 2610 receives a signal from the one or more antennas 2620, extracts information from the received signal, and provides the extracted information to the processing System 2614, specifically the réception module 2404. In addition, the transceiver 2610 receives information from the processing System 2614, specifically » the transmission module 2410, and based on the received information, generates a signal to be applîed to the one or more antennas 2620. The processing System 2614 includes a processor 2604 coupled to a computer-readable medium / memory 2606. The processor 2604 is responsible for general processing, including the execution of software stored on the computer-readable medium / memory 2606. The software, 30 when executed by the processor 2604, causes the processing System 2614 to perform the various fonctions described supra for any partïcular apparatus. The computerreadable medium / memory 2606 may also be used for storing data that is manîpulated by the processor 2604 when executing software. The processing System further

includes at least one of the modules 2404, 2408, and 2410. The modules may be software modules running in the processor 2604, resident/stored in the computer readable medium / memory 2606, one or more hardware modules coupled to the processor 2604, or some combination thereof. The processing System 2614 may be a s component of the eNB 610 and may include the memory 676 and/or at least one of the TX processor 616, the RX processor 670, and the controller/processor 675.

[00238] In one configuration, the apparatus 2402/2402' for wireless communication includes means for means for transmitting first configuration information for a SCC in a first frame on a PCC to a UE. The PCC is in a licensed spectrum. The SCC is in an io unlicensed spectrum. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the SCC. The apparatus 2402/2402' includes means for attempting to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC. The apparatus 2402/2402' includes means for transmitting a downlink subframe to the UE during the 15 at least one frame on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the indicator is successfùl. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe ofthe data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

[00239] The first subframe allocation may indicate an allocation of one or more uplink 20 subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. The at least one frame may include the first frame on the SCC. The first configuration information may be transmitted on the PCC in an initial subframe ofthe first frame.

[00240] The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for receiving data from or transmitting 2z data to the UE in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting second configuration information for the SCC to the UE în an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC. The second frame may be subséquent and consecutive to the first frame. The second configuration information may indicate a second subframe 3o allocation for the second frame on the SCC. The apparatus 240272402' may include means for transmitting a second downlink subframe to the UE, the second downlink subframe being subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation. The first

configuration information indicates that initial two subframes ofthe fîrst frame on the SCC are downlink subframes.

[00241] The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting one or more discovery signais on the SCC in a discovery window that occupies at least one subframe in the 5 fîrst frame on the SCC. The means for attempting to transmit the îndicator may be configured to attempt to transmit the indicator in a subframe on the SCC subséquent to the transmission of the discovery signais in the discovery window. The means for transmitting the downlink subframe may be configured to transmit the downlink subframe subséquent to the transmission of the discovery signais in the discovery io window in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the indicator is not successful.

[00242] The at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1. The first configuration information may indicate the first allocation of subframes in one frame. The first allocation ofthe one frame may be applied to each is frame of the at least one frame. The first subframe allocation may allocate one or more downlink subframes consecutively and prior to each uplink subframe in the one frame.

[00243] The first configuration information may indicate a pluralîty of consecutive downlink subframes in the one frame. The means for transmitting the first configuration 20 information may be configured to transmit the first configuration information in an n** subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial downlink subframe of the pluralîty ofconsecutive downlink subframes ofthe one frame. n is an integer. The at least one frame includes the first frame and a second frame consecutively. The means for transmitting the downlink subframe is configured to transmit the downlink 25 subframe to the UE on the SCC within a period from the n** subframe of the first frame to an (n -1 )^A subframe of the second frame.

[00244] The first configuration information may indicate a pluralîty of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for communicating with the UE in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an 30 initial subframe ofthe pluralîty of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the indicator is not successful.

[00245] The apparatus 2402/2402' may Înclude means for transmitting an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflict may exist between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for

[00246] [00247] [00248] communicating with the UE during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. The at least one frame may include a second frame on the SCC starting at the transmitted downlink subframe.

The at least one frame includes M frames. M ts an integer greater than l. An initial frame of the M frames may start at the transmitted downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting to the UE a k? subséquent indicator indicating a start of data transmission on the SCC subséquent to a kf^h frame of the M frames. λ is an integer and k = l to (M - I). The (k + l)^rt frame of the M frames may start at an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the k^ subséquent indicator. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for communicating data within the M frames with the UE on the SCC in accordance with the first subframe allocation.

In another configuration, the apparatus 2402/2402' includes means for transmitting an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to a UE on a carrier in a first frame. The carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum. The apparatus 2402/2402’ includes means for attemptîng to transmit first configuration information on the carrier to the UE. The first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2402/2402' includes means for transmitting a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is successful. The downlink subframe is an initial subframe of the data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation. The first subframe allocation may indicate allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame. The at least one frame may include a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame.

The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame. The second configuration information may indicate a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the carrier to the UE in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

[00249]

[00250] The at least one frame may include the first frame. The means for transmitting the first configuration information may be configured to transmit the first configuration information in an initial downlink subframe of the first frame. The at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame. M is an integer greater than 1.

[00251] The apparatus 2402/2402* may include means for transmitting second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M frames. The second configuration information may indicate second subframe allocation in one frame on the carrier. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting to the UE a downlink subframe in each ofthe M frames in accordance with the second io subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the carrier is not successful.

[00252] The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame. A conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for is communicating with the UE during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant. The apparatus 2402/2402* may include means for transmitting the first configuration information in a plurality ofdownlink subframes ofthe first frame. The at least one frame may include a second frame on the carrier starting at the downlink subframe.

[00253] The at least one frame may include M frames. M is an integer greater than 1. An initial frame of the M frames may start at the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The first configuration information may be transmitted in the downlink subframe subséquent to the start of the data transmission. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for transmitting a λ** subséquent indicator 25 indicating a start of data transmission to the UE on the carrier subséquent to a U* frame of the M frames. k being an integer and k = 1 to (M -1). The (k + 1)^,A frame of the M frames starts in an initial downlink subframe subséquent to the subséquent indicator. The apparatus 2402/2402' may include means for communicating data in the M frames with the UE on the carrier in accordance with the first subframe 3o allocation.

[00254] The aforementi oned mean s may be one or more of the aforementïoned modu les of the apparatus 2402 and/or the processing System 2614 ofthe apparatus 2402' configured to perform the fùnctions recited by the aforementioned means. As described supra, the processing System 2614 may include the TX Processor 616, the RX Processor 670,

and the controller/processor 675. As such, in one configuration, the aforementioned means may be the TX Processor 616, the RX Processor 670, and the controller/processor 675 configured to perform the functions recited by the aforementioned means.

[00255] It is understood that the spécifie order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes / flow charts disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based upon design préférences, it is understood that the spécifie order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes / flow charts may be rearranged. Further, some blocks may be combined or omitted. The accompanying method daims présent éléments of the various blocks ία in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the spécifie order or hierarchy presented.

[00256] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defïned herein 15 may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the daims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the fuit scope consistent with the language daims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or îo illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Combinations such as “at least one of A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C, and A, B, C, or any combination thereof’ include any combination of A, B, and/or C, and may include multiples of A, 25 multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as “at least one of

A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “A, B, C, or any combination thereof’ may be A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, where any such combinations may contain one or more member or members of A, B, or C. AH structural and functional équivalents to the éléments of the various aspects ίο described throughout this disclosure that are known or later corne to be known to those of ordînary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the daims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the daims. No claim element is to be construed as a means plus fonction unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

Claims (30)

1. A method of wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising:

s attempting to receive first configuration information from a base station, the first configuration information indicating a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on a particular carrier of the base station; and receiving a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the particular carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the m attempt to receive the first configuration information îs successful, the downlink subframe being an initial subframe of a data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first configuration information is received is in a first frame on a primary component carrier (PCC) of the base station, wherein the particular carrier îs a secondary component carrier (SCC) of the base station, wherein the PCC is in a licensed spectrum, wherein the SCC is in an unlicensed spectrum, the method further comprising:

attempting to detect a start of the data transmission from the base station on the ?o SCC, wherein the receiving the downlink subframe from the base station is performed when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is successful.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC, and wherein the first configuration information îs received on the PCC in an initial subframe of the first frame.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:

transmitting data to or receiving data from the base station in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to retain the unlicensed spectrum;

receiving second configuration information for the SCC from the base station în an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC, wherein the second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame, wherein the second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC; and

5 receiving a second downlink subframe from the base station, the second downlink subframe being subséquent to the start ofthe second subframe allocation.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein the first configuration information indicates the first subframe allocation in one frame, and wherein the first subframe allocation of io the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame, the method further comprising: communicating with the base station in a subframe of the first frame is corresponding to an initial subframe of the plurality of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to detect the start of data transmission is not successful.

8. The method of claim 1, whereîn the particular carrier is in an unlîcensed

20 spectrum, wherein the attemptîng to receive the first configuration information is performed on the particular carrier, the method further comprising:

detectîng a start of the data transmission from the base station on the particular carrier in a first frame.

25

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the at least one frame includes a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising:

receiving second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the » second frame, wherein the second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the particular carrier; and receiving a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the particular carrier from the base station in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the particular carrier is not successful.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the at least one frame includes the first s frame, and wherein the first configuration information is received in an initial downlink subframe of the first frame.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame, M being an integer greater than 1.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising:

receiving second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame of the M frames, wherein the second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the particular carrier; and i; receiving from the base station a downlink subframe în each of the M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to receive the first configuration information on the particular carrier is not successful.

14. The method of claim 8, further comprising: receiving an uplink grant

2o associated with the at least one frame; determining that a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation; and communicating with the base station during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

15. A method of wireless communication at a base station, comprising:

25 attempting to transmit first configuration information to a user equîpment (UE), the first configuration information indicating a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on a particular carrier, and transmitting a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the particular carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to μ transmit the first configuration information is successful, the downlink subframe being an initial subframe of a data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the particular carrier is a secondary component carrier (SCC) ofthe base station, wherein the first configuration information is transmitted to the UE in a first frame on a primary component carrier (PCC) of the base station, wherein the PCC is in a licensed spectrum, wherein the SCC is in an s unlîcensed spectrum, the method further comprising:

attempting to transmit an indicator indicating a start of data transmission to the UE in accordance with the first subframe allocation on the SCC, wherein the transmitting the downlink subframe to the UE is performed when the attempt to transmit the indicator is successful.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the first subframe allocation indicates an allocation of one or more uplink subframes, one or more downlink subframes, and one or more spécial subframes in the at least one frame.

is

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the at least one frame includes the first frame on the SCC, and wherein the first configuration information is transmitted on the PCC in an initial subframe ofthe first frame.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

ïo receiving data from or transmitting data to the UE in a last subframe of the first frame on the SCC in order to retaîn the unlîcensed spectrum;

transmitting second configuration information for the SCC to the UE in an initial subframe of a second frame on the PCC, wherein the second frame is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame, wherein the second configuration information indicates a 25 second subframe allocation for the second frame on the SCC; and transmitting a second downlink subframe to the UE, the second downlink subframe being subséquent to the start of the second subframe allocation.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the first configuration information

30 indicates the first allocation of subframes in one frame, and wherein the first allocation of the one frame is applied to each frame of the at least one frame.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the first configuration information indicates a plurality of consecutive uplink subframes at an end of the one frame, the method further comprising: communicating with the UE in a subframe of the first frame corresponding to an initial subframe of the plurality of consecutive uplink subframes in accordance with a default configuration when the attempt to transmit the îndicator is not successful.

22. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

transmittîng an îndicator indicating a start of data transmission to a user equipment (UE) on the particular carrier in a first frame, wherein the particular carrier is in an unlicensed spectrum.

io

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one frame includes a second frame that is subséquent and consecutive to the first frame.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising:

is transmittîng second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in the second frame, wherein the second configuration information indicates a second subframe allocation for the second frame on the particular carrier; and transmittîng a second downlink subframe in the second frame on the particular carrier to the UE in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to

2o transmit the first configuration information on the particular carrier is not successful.

25. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one frame includes the first frame, and wherein the first configuration information is transmitted in an initial downlink subframe ofthe first frame.

26. The method of claim 22, wherein the at least one frame includes M frames subséquent to the first frame, M being an integer greater than 1.

27. The method of daim 26, further comprising:

3o transmittîng second configuration information in an initial downlink subframe in an initial frame ofthe M frames, wherein the second configuration information indicates second subframe allocation in one frame on the particular carrier; and transmitting to the UE a downlink subframe in each of the M frames in accordance with the second subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information on the particular carrier is not successfùl.

s

28. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

transmitting an uplink grant associated with the at least one frame, wherein a conflict exists between the uplink grant and the first subframe allocation; and communicating with the UE during the at least one frame in accordance with the uplink grant.

29. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus being a user equipment (UE), comprising:

a memory; and at least one processor coupled to the memory and configured to is attempt to receive first configuration information from a base station, wherein the first configuration information indicates a first subframe allocation for at least one frame on a particular carrier of the base station; and receive a downlink subframe from the base station during the at least one frame on the particular carrier în accordance with the first subframe allocation when the 20 attempt to receive the first configuration information is successful, the downlink subframe being an initial subframe ofa data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.

30. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus being a base station, comprising:

a memory; and at least one processor coupled to the memoiy and configured to attempt to transmit first configuration information to a user equipment (UE), the first configuration information indicating a first subframe allocation forât least one

30 frame on a particular carrier; and transmit a downlink subframe to the UE during the at least one frame on the particular carrier in accordance with the first subframe allocation when the attempt to transmit the first configuration information is successful, the downlink subframe being an initial subframe of a data transmission and subséquent to the start of the first subframe allocation.