WO2025035784A1

WO2025035784A1 - Devices and methods of communication

Info

Publication number: WO2025035784A1
Application number: PCT/CN2024/085250
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lihua Yang; Haiming Wang; Hongmei Liu; Jianfeng Wang
Original assignee: Lenovo Beijing Ltd
Current assignee: Lenovo Beijing Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-01
Filing date: 2024-04-01
Publication date: 2025-02-20
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-01

Abstract

Various aspects of the present disclosure relate to devices and methods of communication. A base station may determine that a control node of a RIS is to be changed to a UE based on a first condition. The base station may determine the UE from a set of UEs, and transmit, to the UE, a request for authorizing the UE to control the RIS. Upon reception of the request, the UE may determine a starting time point of controlling the RIS and start controlling the RIS at the starting time point. In this way, an authorization for a UE to control a RIS and UE control of the RIS may be enhanced.

Description

DEVICES AND METHODS OF COMMUNICATION

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to wireless communications, and more specifically to devices and methods of communication for a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) -assisted network.

BACKGROUND

A wireless communications system may include one or multiple network communication devices, such as base stations (BSs) , which may be otherwise known as an eNodeB (eNB) , a next-generation NodeB (gNB) , or other suitable terminology. Each network communication devices, such as a base station may support wireless communications for one or multiple user communication devices, which may be otherwise known as user equipment (UE) , or other suitable terminology. The wireless communications system may support wireless communications with one or multiple user communication devices by utilizing resources of the wireless communication system (e.g., time resources (e.g., symbols, slots, subframes, frames, or the like) or frequency resources (e.g., subcarriers, carriers) . Additionally, the wireless communications system may support wireless communications across various radio access technologies including third generation (3G) radio access technology, fourth generation (4G) radio access technology, fifth generation (5G) radio access technology, among other suitable radio access technologies beyond 5G (e.g., sixth generation (6G) ) .

Deploying RISs on surfaces of various objects in wireless transmission environments is expected to break through uncontrollability of traditional wireless channels, builds an intelligent programmable wireless environment, and introduces a new paradigm for future wireless communication. As identified by researchers from at home and abroad, a RIS may be deployed with a stationary manner (e.g., RIS is deployed at facades of buildings or indoor walls/ceilings) and with a non-stationary manner. Currently, a solution of controlling a RIS is still incomplete and needs to be further developed.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to methods, apparatuses, and systems that support UE control of a RIS. By considering a trigger condition, UE selection and/or a time point for UE control of a RIS, an authorization for a UE to control a RIS may be enhanced.

In one aspect, some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein comprise: determining, based on a first condition, that a control node of a RIS is to be changed to a first UE; determining the first UE from a set of UEs; and transmitting, to the first UE, a request for authorizing the first UE to control the RIS.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, the first condition may comprise at least one of the following: a request for changing the control node of the RIS to the first UE is received from a core network element or from a second UE served by the RIS; in accordance with a determination that a transmission from the base station to the RIS is performed, no response to the transmission is received from the RIS in a period of time or in a resource; quality of a first link between the base station and the RIS degrades; the second UE moves out of a UE group corresponding to the RIS; or an operation mode of the RIS is changed to a first operation mode in which the RIS is expected to be controlled by a UE.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, the transmission from the base station to the RIS may comprise at least one of the following: a transmission of a reference signal; a transmission of a message for random access of the RIS; or a transmission of control information for the RIS.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise determining that the quality of the first link degrades based on at least one of the following: a measured value of the quality of the first link is lower than or equal to a first threshold value; number of first measured values of the quality of the first link in a first period of time is lower than a number threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value; or ratio of the first measured values of the quality of the first link in a second period of time is lower than a number threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise determining that the second UE moves out of the UE group based on at least one of the following: an indication of stopping a control for the RIS is received from the second UE; or a time duration in which the second UE is capable to control the RIS expires.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise determining that the operation mode of the RIS is changed to the first operation mode based on at least one of the following: an indication for changing the operation mode of the RIS to the first operation mode is received from the core network element or the further UE; or a first reference signal corresponding to the first operation mode is received from the second UE.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise at least one of the following: transmitting, to the RIS, a request for updating location information of the RIS; or receiving, from the RIS, updated location information of the RIS.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, determining the first UE may comprise determining the first UE based on at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is greater than or equal to a second threshold value; a distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance threshold; the distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance between the RIS and the base station; predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches moving trajectory information of the RIS; or in accordance with a determination that the set of UEs is a UE group corresponding to the RIS, the base station selects the first UE from the set of UEs based on at least one of a random selection, a priority of a service of a UE in the set of UEs, quality of a link between a UE in the set of UEs and the RIS, or predicted moving trajectory information of a UE in the set of UEs.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise: obtaining a set or subset of predicted results for moving trajectory of the first UE; and determining that the predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS based on at least one of the following: number of first predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a first number threshold, the first predicted results having a speed difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a first variance threshold; number of second predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a second number threshold, the second predicted results having an angle difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a second variance threshold; number of the first predicted results within a time window in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a third number threshold; or number of the second predicted results within an angular range in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a fourth number threshold.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, the UE group may comprise: a set of UEs that are located in an area served by the RIS; or a set of UEs that are served by a road side unit (RSU) .

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise transmitting, to the UE, information of a starting time point of controlling the RIS comprising one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the first UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the first UE; a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the first UE; or a pattern for controlling the RIS, the pattern being determined based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the first UE, a service of the UE, or quality of service (QoS) requirement of the first UE.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise receiving, from the first UE, information of a starting time point of controlling the RIS comprising at least one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the first UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the first UE; or a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the first UE.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise transmitting, to the first UE, an indication of stopping control of the RIS based on at least one of the following: the base station changes an operation mode of the RIS; the base station receives a handover command from a further base station; the base station receives, from a core network element, an indication that the UE has completed a service; or a time duration in which the first UE is capable to control the RIS expires.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise receiving, from the first UE, information that the first UE stops controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following: a time duration in which the first UE is allowed to control the RIS expires; an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station; or an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, the event may comprise at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is lower than or equal to a third threshold value; the first UE handovers from the base station to a further base station; the first UE moves out of coverage of the RIS; the first UE moves out of coverage of the base station; the first UE moves into a first location or location range; the RIS is changed to a second operation mode for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or the first UE uses a first resource to control the RIS.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise transmitting, to the first UE, a configuration of an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS, the configuration comprising at least one of the following: a first location or location range in which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; a second operation mode of the RIS for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or a first resource that is unavailable for the first UE to control the RIS.

In another aspect, some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein comprise: receiving, from a base station, a request for authorizing the UE to control a RIS; determining a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and starting controlling the RIS at the starting time point.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, determining the starting time point may comprise one of the following: determining, as the starting time point, a first time point after reception of the request by the UE; determining, as the starting time point, a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the UE; determining, as the starting time point, a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the UE; or determining the starting time point based on a configured pattern for controlling the RIS.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise one of the following: transmitting information of the first time point to the base station; transmitting information of the second time point to the base station; or transmitting information of the third time point to the base station.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise stopping controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following: a time duration in which the UE is allowed to control the RIS expires; an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station; or an event for triggering the UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, the event may comprise at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the UE and the RIS is lower than or equal to a third threshold value; the UE is handed over from a cell of the base station to a further cell; the UE moves out of coverage of the RIS; the UE moves out of coverage of the base station; the UE moves into a first location or location range; the RIS is changed to a second operation mode for which the UE is disabled to control the RIS; or the UE uses a first resource to control the RIS.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise: transmitting, to the base station, information that the UE stops controlling the RIS.

In some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein, determining the starting time point may comprise receiving, from the base station, information of the starting time point comprising one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the UE; a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the UE; or a pattern for controlling the RIS, the pattern being determined based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the UE, a service of the UE, or quality of service (QoS) requirement of the UE.

Some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein may further comprise: in accordance with a determination that a QoS requirement of the UE is not satisfied, transmitting, to the base station, a request for changing the control node of the RIS.

In another aspect, some implementations of the method and apparatuses described herein comprise: determining that a QoS requirement for a service via a RIS is not satisfied; and transmitting, to the base station, a request for changing a control node of the RIS to a UE.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communications system that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram illustrating example UE control of a RIS in which aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented.

FIG. 3 illustrates a signaling chart of a process of communication that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a device that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a processor that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of another method that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of another method that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Principles of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some embodiments. It is to be understood that these embodiments are described only for the purpose of illustration and help those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present disclosure, without suggesting any limitation as to the scope of the disclosure. The disclosure described herein may be implemented in various manners other than the ones described below.

In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skills in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

References in the present disclosure to “one embodiment, ” “an example embodiment, ” “an embodiment, ” “some embodiments, ” and the like indicate that the embodiment (s) described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but it is not necessary that every embodiment includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment (s) . Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. The term “embodiment” may be interchangeably used with “implementation” .

It shall be understood that although the terms “first” and “second” or the like may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element could also be termed as a second element, and similarly, a second element could also be termed as a first element, without departing from the scope of implementations. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of example implementations. As used herein, the singular forms “a” , “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” , “comprising” , “has” , “having” , “includes” and/or “including” , when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and/or components etc., but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components and/or combinations thereof.

In traditional communication, wireless environment is uncontrollable, and its uncontrollability often has a negative impact on communication efficiency and further reduces service quality. Signal attenuation limits a propagation distance of wireless signals, multipath effects lead to fading phenomena, and reflection and refraction of large objects are main uncontrollable factors. Deploying RISs on a surface of various objects in wireless transmission environments is expected to break through the uncontrollability of traditional wireless channels, builds an intelligent programmable wireless environment, and introduces a new paradigm for future wireless communication. RIS may actively enrich channel scattering conditions and obtain additional multiplexing gain. In addition, RIS may achieve signal propagation direction regulation and in-phase stacking in three-dimensional space, increase the received signal strength, and improve transmission performance between communication devices. Thus, RIS has great potential for providing virtual line of sight links, eliminating local coverage holes, and enhancing capability and coverage for cell edge users, thereby achieving an intelligent and reconfigurable wireless environment.

As it is identified by researchers from at home and abroad, RIS may be controlled within the following types, e.g., network-controlled RIS, network-assisted RIS, UE-controlled RIS, standalone RIS, and hybrid-controlled RIS, etc. In the above controlling types, network-controlled RIS and UE-controlled RIS are considered as the most promising controlling type in the future. The reason is that complexity aspects of RIS controller are low and there requires low capability of RIS under those two controlling types. However, a solution of UE-controlled RIS is still unclear.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution of supporting UE control of a RIS. In the solution, a base station may determine, based on a first condition, that a control node of a RIS is to be changed to a UE (for convenience, also referred to as a first UE herein) . The base station may determine the UE from a set of UEs, and transmit, to the UE, a request for authorizing the UE to control the RIS. Upon reception of the request, the UE may determine a starting time point of controlling the RIS and start controlling the RIS at the starting time point. In this way, an authorization for a UE to control a RIS and UE control of the RIS may be enhanced.

The aspects of the present disclosure are described in the context of a wireless communications system.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communications system 100 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless communications system 100 may include one or more network entities (also referred to as network equipment (NE) ) . For convenience, network entities 102-1, 102-2 and 102-3 are shown and are collectively referred to as one or more network entities 102 hereinafter. The wireless communications system 100 may further include one or more UEs (such as UEs 101, 105 and 107) , a RIS 103, a core network 106, and a packet data network 108. The wireless communications system 100 may support various radio access technologies. In some implementations, the wireless communications system 100 may be a 4G network, such as an LTE network or an LTE-advanced (LTE-A) network. In some other implementations, the wireless communications system 100 may be a 5G network, such as a new radio (NR) network. In other implementations, the wireless communications system 100 may be a combination of a 4G network and a 5G network, or other suitable radio access technology including institute of electrical and electronics engineers (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi) , IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX) , IEEE 802.20. The wireless communications system 100 may support radio access technologies beyond 5G. Additionally, the wireless communications system 100 may support technologies, such as time division multiple access (TDMA) , frequency division multiple access (FDMA) , or code division multiple access (CDMA) , etc.

The one or more network entities 102 may be dispersed throughout a geographic region to form the wireless communications system 100. One or more of the network entities 102 described herein may be or include or may be referred to as a network node, a base station, a network element, a radio access network (RAN) , a base transceiver station, an access point, a NodeB, an eNodeB (eNB) , a next-generation NodeB (gNB) , or other suitable terminology. A network entity 102 and a UE may communicate via a communication link 110, which may be a wireless or wired connection. For example, a network entity 102 and a UE may perform wireless communication (e.g., receive signaling, transmit signaling) over a Uu interface.

A network entity 102 may provide one or more geographic coverage areas (also referred to as cells) for which the network entity 102 may support services (e.g., voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, etc. ) for one or more UEs within a geographic coverage area. For example, a network entity 102 and a UE may support wireless communication of signals related to services (e.g., voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, etc. ) according to one or multiple radio access technologies. In some implementations, a network entity 102 may be moveable, for example, a satellite associated with a non-terrestrial network. In some implementations, different geographic coverage areas associated with the same or different radio access technologies may overlap, but the different geographic coverage areas may be associated with different network entities 102. Information and signals described herein may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced throughout the description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

The one or more UEs may be dispersed throughout a geographic region of the wireless communications system 100. A UE may include or may be referred to as a mobile device, a wireless device, a remote device, a remote unit, a handheld device, or a subscriber device, or some other suitable terminology. In some implementations, the UE may be referred to as a unit, a station, a terminal, or a client, among other examples. Additionally, or alternatively, the UE may be referred to as an Internet-of-things (IoT) device, an Internet-of-everything (IoE) device, or machine-type communication (MTC) device, among other examples. In some implementations, a UE may be stationary in the wireless communications system 100. In some other implementations, a UE may be mobile in the wireless communications system 100.

The one or more UEs may be devices in different forms or having different capabilities. Some examples of UEs are illustrated in FIG. 1. A UE may be capable of communicating with various types of devices, such as the network entities 102, other UEs, or network equipment (e.g., the core network 106, the packet data network 108, a relay device, an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, or another network equipment) , as shown in FIG. 1. Additionally or alternatively, a UE may support communication with other network entities 102 or UEs, which may act as relays in the wireless communications system 100.

A UE may also be able to support wireless communication directly with other UEs over a communication link 114. For example, a UE may support wireless communication directly with another UE over a device-to-device (D2D) communication link. In some implementations, such as vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) deployments, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) deployments, or cellular-V2X deployments, the communication link 114 may be referred to as an SL. For example, a UE may support wireless communication directly with another UE over a PC5 interface.

A network entity 102 may support communications with the core network 106, or with another network entity 102, or both. For example, a network entity 102 may interface with the core network 106 through one or more backhaul links 116 (e.g., via an S1, N2, N2, or another network interface) . The network entities 102 may communicate with each other over the backhaul links 116 (e.g., via an X2, Xn, or another network interface) . In some implementations, the network entities 102 may communicate with each other directly (e.g., between the network entities 102) . In some other implementations, the network entities 102 may communicate with each other or indirectly (e.g., via the core network 106) . In some implementations, one or more network entities 102 may include subcomponents, such as an access network entity, which may be an example of an access node controller (ANC) . An ANC may communicate with the one or more UEs through one or more other access network transmission entities, which may be referred to as a radio heads, smart radio heads, or transmission-reception points (TRPs) .

As an example, the network entity 102-1 may provide a cell 112-1 and the network entity 102-2 may provide a cell 112-2. It is to be understood that each of the network entities 102-1 and 102-2 may provide more cells (not shown) .

In an example, the network entity may be a satellite, for example, the network entity 102-3. The network entity 102-3 may have full or part of an eNB/gNB on board. The communication link 110 between the satellite 102-3 and the UE 105, the communication link 116 between the satellite 102-3 and the network entity 102-2, and the communication link 116 between the network entity 102-2 and the core network 106 may be used for a non-terrestrial network (NTN) transparent mode. The communication link 110 between the satellite 102-3 and the UE 105, and the communication link 116 between the satellite 102-3 (with a base station on board) and the core network 106 may be used for a NTN regenerative mode.

In some implementations, a network entity 102 may be configured in a disaggregated architecture, which may be configured to utilize a protocol stack physically or logically distributed among two or more network entities 102, such as an IAB network, an open RAN (O-RAN) (e.g., a network configuration sponsored by the O-RAN Alliance) , or a virtualized RAN (vRAN) (e.g., a cloud RAN (C-RAN) ) . For example, a network entity 102 may include one or more of a central unit (CU) , a distributed unit (DU) , a radio unit (RU) , a RAN intelligent controller (RIC) (e.g., a near-real time RIC (Near-RT RIC) , a non-real time RIC (Non-RT RIC) ) , a service management and orchestration (SMO) system, or any combination thereof.

An RU may also be referred to as a radio head, a smart radio head, a remote radio head (RRH) , a remote radio unit (RRU) , or a TRP. One or more components of the network entities 102 in a disaggregated RAN architecture may be co-located, or one or more components of the network entities 102 may be located in distributed locations (e.g., separate physical locations) . In some implementations, one or more network entities 102 of a disaggregated RAN architecture may be implemented as virtual units (e.g., a virtual CU (VCU) , a virtual DU (VDU) , a virtual RU (VRU) ) .

Split of functionality between a CU, a DU, and an RU may be flexible and may support different functionalities depending upon which functions (e.g., network layer functions, protocol layer functions, baseband functions, radio frequency functions, and any combinations thereof) are performed at a CU, a DU, or an RU. For example, a functional split of a protocol stack may be employed between a CU and a DU such that the CU may support one or more layers of the protocol stack and the DU may support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. In some implementations, the CU may host upper protocol layer (e.g., a layer 3 (L3) , a layer 2 (L2) ) functionality and signaling (e.g., radio resource control (RRC) , service data adaption protocol (SDAP) , packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) ) . The CU may be connected to one or more DUs or RUs, and the one or more DUs or RUs may host lower protocol layers, such as a layer 1 (L1) (e.g., physical (PHY) layer) or an L2 (e.g., radio link control (RLC) layer, medium access control (MAC) layer) functionality and signaling, and may each be at least partially controlled by the CU 160.

Additionally or alternatively, a functional split of the protocol stack may be employed between a DU and an RU such that the DU may support one or more layers of the protocol stack and the RU may support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. The DU may support one or multiple different cells (e.g., via one or more RUs) . In some implementations, a functional split between a CU and a DU, or between a DU and an RU may be within a protocol layer (e.g., some functions for a protocol layer may be performed by one of a CU, a DU, or an RU, while other functions of the protocol layer are performed by a different one of the CU, the DU, or the RU) .

A CU may be functionally split further into CU control plane (CU-CP) and CU user plane (CU-UP) functions. A CU may be connected to one or more DUs via a midhaul communication link (e.g., F1, F1-c, F1-u) , and a DU may be connected to one or more RUs via a fronthaul communication link (e.g., open fronthaul (FH) interface) . In some implementations, a midhaul communication link or a fronthaul communication link may be implemented in accordance with an interface (e.g., a channel) between layers of a protocol stack supported by respective network entities 102 that are in communication via such communication links.

The core network 106 may support user authentication, access authorization, tracking, connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. The core network 106 may be an evolved packet core (EPC) , or a 5G core (5GC) , which may include a core network element 109. The core network element 109 may be a control plane entity that manages access and mobility (e.g., an LMF, a mobility management entity (MME) , an access and mobility management functions (AMF) ) or a user plane entity that routes packets or interconnects to external networks (e.g., a serving gateway (S-GW) , a Packet Data Network (PDN) gateway (P-GW) , or a user plane function (UPF) ) . In some implementations, the control plane entity may manage non-access stratum (NAS) functions, such as mobility, authentication, and bearer management (e.g., data bearers, signal bearers, etc. ) for the one or more UEs served by the one or more network entities 102 associated with the core network 106.

The core network 106 may communicate with the packet data network 108 over one or more backhaul links 116 (e.g., via an S1, N2, N2, or another network interface) . The packet data network 108 may include an application server 118. In some implementations, one or more UEs may communicate with the application server 118. A UE may establish a session (e.g., a protocol data unit (PDU) session, or the like) with the core network 106 via a network entity 102. The core network 106 may route traffic (e.g., control information, data, and the like) between the UE and the application server 118 using the established session (e.g., the established PDU session) . The PDU session may be an example of a logical connection between the UE and the core network 106 (e.g., one or more network functions of the core network 106) .

In the wireless communications system 100, the network entities 102 and the UEs may use resources of the wireless communications system 100 (e.g., time resources (e.g., symbols, slots, subframes, frames, or the like) or frequency resources (e.g., subcarriers, carriers) ) to perform various operations (e.g., wireless communications) . In some implementations, the network entities 102 and the UEs may support different resource structures. For example, the network entities 102 and the UEs may support different frame structures. In some implementations, such as in 4G, the network entities 102 and the UEs may support a single frame structure. In some other implementations, such as in 5G and among other suitable radio access technologies, the network entities 102 and the UEs may support various frame structures (i.e., multiple frame structures) . The network entities 102 and the UEs may support various frame structures based on one or more numerologies.

One or more numerologies may be supported in the wireless communications system 100, and a numerology may include a subcarrier spacing and a cyclic prefix. A first numerology (e.g., μ=0) may be associated with a first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix. In some implementations, the first numerology (e.g., μ=0) associated with the first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15 kHz) may utilize one slot per subframe. A second numerology (e.g., μ=1) may be associated with a second subcarrier spacing (e.g., 30 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix. A third numerology (e.g., μ=2) may be associated with a third subcarrier spacing (e.g., 60 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix or an extended cyclic prefix. A fourth numerology (e.g., μ=3) may be associated with a fourth subcarrier spacing (e.g., 120 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix. A fifth numerology (e.g., μ=4) may be associated with a fifth subcarrier spacing (e.g., 240 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix.

A time interval of a resource (e.g., a communication resource) may be organized according to frames (also referred to as radio frames) . Each frame may have a duration, for example, a 10 millisecond (ms) duration. In some implementations, each frame may include multiple subframes. For example, each frame may include 10 subframes, and each subframe may have a duration, for example, a 1ms duration. In some implementations, each frame may have the same duration. In some implementations, each subframe of a frame may have the same duration.

Additionally or alternatively, a time interval of a resource (e.g., a communication resource) may be organized according to slots. For example, a subframe may include a number (e.g., quantity) of slots. The number of slots in each subframe may also depend on the one or more numerologies supported in the wireless communications system 100. For instance, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth numerologies (i.e., μ=0, μ=1, μ=2, μ=3, μ=4) associated with respective subcarrier spacings of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, 120 kHz, and 240 kHz may utilize a single slot per subframe, two slots per subframe, four slots per subframe, eight slots per subframe, and 16 slots per subframe, respectively. Each slot may include a number (e.g., quantity) of symbols (e.g., OFDM symbols) . In some implementations, the number (e.g., quantity) of slots for a subframe may depend on a numerology. For a normal cyclic prefix, a slot may include 14 symbols. For an extended cyclic prefix (e.g., applicable for 60 kHz subcarrier spacing) , a slot may include 12 symbols. The relationship between the number of symbols per slot, the number of slots per subframe, and the number of slots per frame for a normal cyclic prefix and an extended cyclic prefix may depend on a numerology. It should be understood that reference to a first numerology (e.g., μ=0) associated with a first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15 kHz) may be used interchangeably between subframes and slots.

In the wireless communications system 100, an electromagnetic (EM) spectrum may be split, based on frequency or wavelength, into various classes, frequency bands, frequency channels, etc. By way of example, the wireless communications system 100 may support one or multiple operating frequency bands, such as frequency range designations FR1 (410 MHz –7.125 GHz) , FR2 (24.25 GHz –52.6 GHz) , FR3 (7.125 GHz –24.25 GHz) , FR4 (52.6 GHz –114.25 GHz) , FR4a or FR4-1 (52.6 GHz –71 GHz) , and FR5 (114.25 GHz –300 GHz) . In some implementations, the network entities 102 and the UEs 104 may perform wireless communications over one or more of the operating frequency bands. In some implementations, FR1 may be used by the network entities 102 and the UEs, among other equipment or devices for cellular communications traffic (e.g., control information, data) . In some implementations, FR2 may be used by the network entities 102 and the UEs, among other equipment or devices for short-range, high data rate capabilities.

FR1 may be associated with one or multiple numerologies (e.g., at least three numerologies) . For example, FR1 may be associated with a first numerology (e.g., μ=0) , which includes 15 kHz subcarrier spacing; a second numerology (e.g., μ=1) , which includes 30 kHz subcarrier spacing; and a third numerology (e.g., μ=2) , which includes 60 kHz subcarrier spacing. FR2 may be associated with one or multiple numerologies (e.g., at least 2 numerologies) . For example, FR2 may be associated with a third numerology (e.g., μ=2) , which includes 60 kHz subcarrier spacing; and a fourth numerology (e.g., μ=3) , which includes 120 kHz subcarrier spacing.

With reference to FIG. 1, the RIS 103 may receive a signal from the network device 102 (e.g., the network device 102-1) and forward the signal to a UE (e.g., the UE 101) . In some embodiments, the RIS 103 may comprise a plurality of RIS elements (also referred to as elements herein) and a RIS controller (also referred to as a controller herein) for controlling the RIS elements. In some embodiments, the RIS elements of the RIS 103 may be passive with a reflection mode or with both a reflection mode and a transmission mode. Reflection coefficients (also referred to as coefficients herein) of the RIS element may be set by the RIS controller, and the RIS controller may have a communication module with a node (also referred to as a control node herein) , either a BS or a UE, to receive the coefficients. It is to be understood that although only one RIS is shown in FIG. 1, more RISs may be comprised in the wireless communications system 100.

FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram 200 illustrating example UE control of a RIS in which aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented. For convenience, FIG. 2 will be described in connection with the example of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, in case of UE controlled RIS, the UE 101 may determine control information which is used to control and configure the RIS elements of the RIS 103 via the RIS controller of the RIS 103. The UE 101 may transmit the control information to a RIS controller of the RIS 103, and the RIS controller may control RIS elements of the RIS 103 based on the control information. Under the control, the network entity 102-1 may communicate with the UE 101 via the RIS 103.

For UE control of a RIS, a network needs to authorize the UE to configure the RIS for a specific operating frequency range including licensed and unlicensed spectrum. To authorize the UE to configure the RIS, it is expected to specify how to trigger the authorization and how to trigger UE to control the RIS.

In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution of supporting UE control of a RIS so as to overcome the above and other potential issues. It is to be understood that the solutions of the present disclosure may be applied to both a moving RIS and a stationary RIS. The solution will be described in connection with FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 illustrates a signaling chart of a process 300 of communication that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, the process 300 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The process 300 may involve the network entity 102-1, the RIS 103, and the UEs 101 and 105 as illustrated in FIG. 1. It is to be understood that the steps and the order of the steps in FIG. 3 are merely for illustration, and not for limitation. It is assumed that the network entity 102-1 and the UE 101 are communicated via the RIS 103, and the RIS 103 is initially controlled by the network entity 102-1 or the UE 101. In this example, the UE 101 is served by the network entity 102-1 and the RIS 103. It is to be understood that more UEs may be served by the RIS 103.

As shown in FIG. 3, the network entity 102-1 may determine 310 whether a control node of the RIS 103 is to be changed to a UE (also referred to as a first UE herein) . In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine whether a condition (also referred to as a first condition herein) for changing a control node of the RIS 103 to a UE (also referred to as a first UE herein) is fulfilled. If the first condition is fulfilled, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the control node of the RIS 103 needs to be changed to the first UE.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise that a request (i.e., an explicit indication) for changing the control node of the RIS to the first UE is received from the CN element 109 (e.g., LMF) or from a UE (also referred to as a second UE herein, e.g., the UE 101) served by the RIS. In other words, if the network entity 102-1 receives a request for changing the control node of the RIS 103 from the CN element 102 or the UE 101, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the control node of the RIS 103 needs to be changed to a UE.

As shown in FIG. 3, the CN element 109 may transmit 311, to the network entity 102-1, the request for changing the control node of the RIS 103 if a QoS requirement for a service via the RIS 103 is not satisfied. In some embodiments, if positioning accuracy via the RIS 103 does not satisfy the QoS requirement, the CN element 109 may transmit the request to the network entity 102-1.

For example, capability information transfer procedure may be performed. The exchange of capabilities between the UE 101 (i.e., a target UE) and the CN element 109 may include ability of a target or server UE to support different position methods defined for LTE positioning protocol (LPP) , different aspects of a particular position method (e.g. different types of assistance data for assisted-global navigation satellite system (A-GNSS) and common features not specific to only one position method (e.g. ability to handle multiple LPP transactions) . After that, the CN element 109 may determine a positioning method.

Then assistance data transfer procedure may be performed. The CN element 109 may provide pre-configured downlink-positioning reference signal (DL-PRS) assistance data (with associated validity criteria) to the UE 101 (before or during an ongoing LPP positioning session) , to be utilized for potential positioning measurements at a future time.

The CN element 109 may send request location information to the UE 101 (for the DL positioning methods) or the network entity 102-1 (for the UL positioning methods) . Then the UE 101 and the network entity 102-1 perform RS measurement, (e.g., positioning reference signal (PRS) for DL, and sounding reference signal (SRS) for UL) , and send the measurement results to the CN element 109 via a provide location information message.

The CN element 109 may calculate positioning results according to the received measurement results and locations of network entities. If the calculated positioning results do not satisfy the QoS requirement, the CN element 109 may send an indication/request to the network entity 102-1 to change the control node of the RIS 103. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may transmit, to the UE 101, a request for controlling the RIS 103.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, the UE 101 may transmit 312, to the network entity 102-1, the request for changing the control node of the RIS 103 if a QoS requirement of the UE 101 is not satisfied. In some embodiments, if throughput of the UE 101 does not satisfy the QoS requirement, the UE 101 may transmit the request to the network entity 102-1. In some embodiments, if positioning accuracy does not satisfy the QoS requirement, the UE 101 may transmit the request to the network entity 102-1.

For example, after the capability information transfer procedure and assistance data transfer procedure, the CN element 109 may send request location information to the UE 101 (i.e., the target UE) . The UE 101 may perform DL PRS measurement. The UE 101 may calculate positioning results according to measurement results and locations of network entities. If the calculated positioning results do not satisfy the QoS requirement, the UE 101 may send an indication/request to the network entity 102-1 to change the control node of the RIS 103.

In this way, UE control of a RIS may be triggered by an explicit indication/request from CN or UE.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, the network entity 102-1 may determine 313 to change the control node of the RIS 103 based on assistance information such as radio link monitoring results, sensing results, UE moving trajectory information, RIS deployment location, or RIS operation mode. Some example embodiments will be described as below.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise that no response to a transmission from the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 is received from the RIS 103 in a period of time or in a resource. In other words, if a transmission from the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 is performed and no response to the transmission is received from the RIS 103 in the period of time (e.g., during a time window) or in the resource (e.g., in a time and/or frequency resource) , the network entity 102-1 may determine that the control node of the RIS 103 needs to be changed to a UE. In some embodiments, the period of time may be configured or predefined. In some embodiments, the resource may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, the transmission from the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 may comprise a transmission of a reference signal (RS) . For example, the network entity 102-1 may transmit or retransmit a RS to the RIS 103, but not receive a response or acknowledgement from the RIS controller of the RIS 103 during a pre-configured time window or in an indicated or determined time/frequency resource. Then the network entity 102-1 may determine to change the control node of the RIS. For example, the network entity 102-1 may send a request for controlling the RIS 103 to a UE (e.g., the UE 101) served by the network entity 102-1 via the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the transmission from the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 may comprise a transmission of a message for random access of the RIS 103. The message for random access may be any messages transmitted by the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 during a random access procedure, e.g., msg2, msg4, msgB, etc. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may transmit the message to the RIS 103, but not receive a response or acknowledgement from the RIS controller of the RIS 103 during a pre-configured time window or in an indicated or determined time/frequency resource. Then the network entity 102-1 may determine to change the control node of the RIS to a UE.

In some embodiments, the transmission from the network entity 102-1 to the RIS 103 may comprise a transmission of control information for the RIS 103. For example, the network entity 102-1 may schedule the RIS 103 to feedback the control information in a certain physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) time/frequency resource, but not receive the response information in the indicated or determined time/frequency resource.

In this way, UE control of a RIS may be triggered based on no response from RIS is received.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise that quality of a link (also referred to as a first link or gNB-RIS link herein) between the network entity 102-1 and the RIS 103 degrades. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may configure the RIS 103 to monitor the first link periodically or during a time window. If the quality of the first link degrades, the network entity 102-1 may determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

In some embodiments, if a measured value of the quality of the first link is lower than or equal to a first threshold value, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the quality of the first link degrades and determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE. In some embodiments, the measured value may be reference signal received power (RSRP) , reference signal received quality (RSRQ) , signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) , etc. In some embodiments, the first threshold value may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if number of first measured values of the quality of the first link in a period of time (also referred to as a first period of time herein) is lower than a number threshold and the first measured values are lower than or equal to the first threshold value, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the quality of the first link degrades and determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

In some embodiments, if ratio of the first measured values of the quality of the first link in a period of time (also referred to as a second period of time herein) is lower than a ratio threshold, and the first measured values are lower than or equal to the first threshold value, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the quality of the first link degrades and determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

In this way, radio link monitoring results may be used to evaluate whether to trigger UE control of a RIS.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise that the UE 101 moves out of a UE group corresponding to the RIS. That is, a mapping between a RIS and a group of UEs (i.e., UE group) may be defined.

In some embodiments, the UE group may comprise a set of UEs that are located in an area served by the RIS. For example, a set of UEs located in a railway carriage may belong to the same UE group. In another example, a set of UEs in a car may belong to the same UE group. In some embodiments, the UE group may comprise a set of UEs that are served by a road side unit (RSU) . It is to be understood that a UE group corresponding to a RIS may be defined in any other suitable ways.

In some embodiments where the UE 101 in the UE group serves as a control node of the RIS 103, if the network entity 101 receives, from the UE 101, an indication of stopping a control for the RIS, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the UE 101 moves out of the UE group, and may request another UE to control the RIS 103.

In some embodiments where the UE 101 in the UE group serves as a control node of the RIS 103, if a time duration in which the UE 101 is capable to control the RIS 103 expires or a time duration that the UE 101 can continue to control the RIS 103 expires, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the UE 101 moves out of the UE group, and may request another UE to control the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the RIS 103 may transmit updated location information of the RIS 103 to the network entity 102-1. In other words, the RIS 103 may automatically report or update its location information. In some embodiments, the RIS 103 may report or update its location information periodically. In some embodiments, the RIS 103 may report or update its location information in an aperiodic manner.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 or the CN element 109 may transmit, to the RIS 103, a request for updating location information of the RIS 103. Based on the request, the RIS 103 may report or update its location information.

In this way, RIS deployment location may be considered to evaluate whether to trigger UE control of a RIS.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise that an operation mode of the RIS is changed to an operation mode (also referred to as a first operation mode herein) in which the RIS is expected to be controlled by a UE. In some embodiments, the first operation mode may be a refraction mode. In some embodiments, the first operation mode may be an absorption mode.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE based on an explicit indication on the operation mode of the RIS 103 from the CN element 109 or the UE 101 served by the RIS 103.

For example, the CN element 109 may determine the first operation mode of the RIS 103 according to service/requirements of the UE 101 and transmit to the network entity 102-1 an indication of changing the operation mode of the RIS 103 to the first operation mode, e.g., an indication of changing from a reflection mode to a refraction or absorption mode. Based on the indication from the CN element 109, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the operation mode of the RIS 103 is changed to the first operation mode, and thus determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

In another example, the UE 101 may determine the first operation mode of the RIS 103 according to service/requirements of the UE 101 and transmit to the network entity 102-1 an indication of changing the operation mode of the RIS 103 to the first operation mode, e.g., an indication of changing from a reflection mode to a refraction or absorption mode. Based on the indication from the UE 101, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the operation mode of the RIS 103 is changed to the first operation mode, and thus determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE based on an implicit indication on the operation mode of the RIS from the CN element 109 or the UE 101. In some embodiments, a mapping between a RS and an operation mode of a RIS may be defined. Table 1 shows an example mapping between RS types and RIS operation modes.

Table 1

In some embodiments, if a first RS (e.g., RS#2 or RS#3 or RS#7) corresponding to the first operation mode is received from the UE 101, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the operation mode of the RIS 103 is changed to the first operation mode, and thus determine to change the control node of the RIS 103 to a UE.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, upon determination that the control node of the RIS 103 is to be changed to a UE (i.e., the first UE) , the network entity 102-1 may determine 320 the first UE from a set of UEs. In other words, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE in the set of UEs as the first UE. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may perform the UE selection by considering at least one of the following: quality of a UE-RIS link, a UE-RIS distance, a gNB-RIS distance, UE moving trajectory information, RIS deployment location, etc.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may transmit sensing signals to sense locations of UEs surrounding the RIS 103 or served via the RIS 103, and receive sensing results from UEs. With reference to FIG. 3, based on the received sensing results from UEs, the network entity 102-1 may determine 321 a UE (i.e., the first UE) for controlling the RIS 103 by considering quality of a UE-RIS link and/or a distance from UE to RIS.

In some embodiments, if a measured value of quality of a link (also referred to as a second link herein) between a UE and the RIS 103 is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, the network entity 102-1 may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the second threshold value may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if a distance between a UE and the RIS 103 is smaller than a distance threshold, the network entity 102-1 may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the distance threshold may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if the distance between a UE and the RIS 103 is smaller than a distance between the RIS 103 and the network entity 102-1, the network entity 102-1 may determine the UE as the first UE.

In some embodiments, if more than one UE satisfies the link quality condition, the network entity 102-1 may further consider the distance condition so as to select the first UE.

With reference to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine 322 the first UE based on predicted moving trajectory information of UEs and moving trajectory information of the RIS 103. In some embodiments, if predicted moving trajectory information of a UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103, the network entity 102-1 may determine the UE as the first UE.

In some embodiments, an artificial intelligence (AI) model may be used to predict the UE moving trajectory information. In some embodiments, the AI model may be deployed at UE side, at network (NW) side or at both UE and NW sides. If the AI model is at UE side or both at UE and NW side, UE may transmit prediction results to NW once completing a prediction procedure. In some embodiments, an input of the AI model may be priori information, e.g., UE cell selection information, UE handover information, candidate cell list, target cell, etc. An output of the AI model may be the UE moving trajectory information. Based on the prediction results, the network entity 102-1 may request a UE which has nearly the same moving trajectory with the RIS 103 to control the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may obtain a set of predicted results for moving trajectory of a UE. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may obtain a subset of predicted results in the set of predicted results, e.g., by a random selection from the set of predicted results. Based on the set or subset of predicted results, the network entity 102-1 may determine a UE that has nearly the same moving trajectory with the RIS 103, i.e., matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, if number of first predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results for a UE is larger than or equal to a number threshold (also referred to as a first number threshold herein) , and the first predicted results have a speed difference or variance from the RIS 103 that is lower than or equal to a first difference or variance threshold, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the predicted moving trajectory information of the UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103, and may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the first number threshold may be configured or predefined. In some embodiments, the first difference or variance threshold may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if number of the first predicted results within a time window in the set or subset of predicted results for a UE is larger than or equal to a number threshold (also referred to as a third number threshold herein) , the network entity 102-1 may determine that the predicted moving trajectory information of the UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103, and may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the third number threshold may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if number of second predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results for a UE is larger than or equal to a number threshold (also referred to as a second number threshold herein) , and the second predicted results have an angle difference or variance from the RIS 103 that is lower than or equal to a second difference or variance threshold, the network entity 102-1 may determine that the predicted moving trajectory information of the UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103, and may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the second number threshold may be configured or predefined. In some embodiments, the second difference or variance threshold may be configured or predefined.

In some embodiments, if number of the second predicted results within an angular range in the set or subset of predicted results for a UE is larger than or equal to a number threshold (also referred to as a fourth number threshold herein) , the network entity 102-1 may determine that the predicted moving trajectory information of the UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS 103, and may determine the UE as the first UE. In some embodiments, the fourth number threshold may be configured or predefined.

With reference to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine 323 the first UE based on a deployment location of the RIS 103. In some embodiments, if the UE 101 controlling the RIS 103 moves out of a UE group corresponding to the RIS 103, the network entity 102-1 may select another UE from the UE group to control the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may randomly select a UE in the UE group other than the UE 103. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE other than the UE 103 based on priorities of services or traffics of UEs in the UE group. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE with a first priority of a service or traffic in the UE group, the first priority being higher than a priority threshold. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE with a highest priority of a service or traffic in the UE group.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE in the UE group other than the UE 103 based on quality of UE-RIS links. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE with a measured value of quality of a link between the UE and the RIS 103 higher than or equal to a threshold value. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE with a maximum measured value of quality of a UE-RIS link. It is to be understood that the measured value of quality of UE-RIS link may be RSRP, RSRQ, SINR or any other suitable metrics.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE in the UE group other than the UE 103 based on predicted moving trajectory information of UEs in the set of UEs. In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may select a UE with a predicted moving trajectory same as a moving trajectory of the RIS 103. Prediction of the UE moving trajectory and definition of the UE group may be carried out as described previously.

It is assumed that the UE 105 is determined as the first UE. Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, the network entity 102-1 may transmit 330, to the UE 105, a request for authorizing the UE 105 to control the RIS 103. As shown in FIG. 3, the UE 105 may determine 340 a starting time point of controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the UE 105 may determine, as the starting time point, a time point (also referred to as a first time point herein) after receiving the request from the network entity 102-1.

In some embodiments, the UE 105 may determine, as the starting time point, a time point (also referred to as a second time point herein) after receiving a configuration or indication of a resource (e.g., a time and/or frequency resource) for controlling the RIS 103 from the network entity 102-1. In some embodiments, if the resource is aperiodic, the UE 105 may start to control the RIS 103 once receiving an indication of the resource. In some embodiments, if the resource is periodic, the UE 105 may start to control the RIS 103 on a certain resource.

In some embodiments, the UE 105 may determine, as the starting time point, a time point (also referred to as a third time point herein) after receiving a response or acknowledgement to a configuration of control information from the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the UE 105 may determine the starting time point based on a pattern for controlling the RIS 103. The pattern may be configured or predefined. For example, pattern#1: every 5 minutes to control 5 minutes; pattern#2: every 5 minutes to control 10 minutes; pattern#3: every 10 minutes to control 10 minutes; etc.

With reference to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may determine 341 information of the starting time point. For example, the network entity 102-1 may determine the first time point, the second time point or the third time point as the starting time point for controlling the RIS 103. In another example, the network entity 102-1 may determine the pattern for controlling the RIS 103 based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the UE 105, a service of the UE 105, or QoS requirement of the UE 105.

As shown in FIG. 3, the network entity 102-1 may transmit 342, to the UE 105, the information of the starting time point comprising at least one of the first time point, the second time point, the third time point or the pattern for controlling the RIS 103. In this way, the UE 105 may determine the starting time point for controlling the RIS 103 based on NW indication.

As shown in FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the UE 105 may determine 343 the starting time point (e.g., the first or second or third time point) by itself. In this case, the UE 105 may transmit 344 information of the determined starting time point to the network entity 102-1. For example, the UE 105 may determine the first or second or third time point described above by itself, and report the determined first or second or third time point to the network entity 102-1.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, the UE 105 may start 350 controlling the RIS 103 at the starting time point. For example, the UE 105 may start to control the RIS 103 at the first or second or third time point or according to the pattern.

With reference to FIG. 3, the UE 105 may stop 360 controlling the RIS 103 based on some indication or condition. In some embodiments, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103 if a time duration in which the UE 105 is allowed to control the RIS 103 expires. In some embodiments, the time duration may be configured or predefined.

As shown in FIG. 3, the network entity 102-1 may transmit 361 an indication of stopping control of the RIS 103 to the UE 105. Based on the indication, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, if the network entity 102-1 changes an operation mode of the RIS 103 (e.g., from a refraction mode to a reflection mode) , the network entity 102-1 may transmit, to the UE 105, the indication of stopping the control of the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, if the network entity 102-1 receives a handover command from another network entity to allow other UEs to access, the network entity 102-1 may transmit, to the UE 105, the indication of stopping the control of the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may receive, from the CN element 109, an indication that the UE 105 has completed the service. That is, the UE 105 has no requirement or service to control the RIS 103. In this case, the network entity 102-1 may transmit, to the UE 105, the indication of stopping the control of the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, if a time duration in which the UE 105 is capable to control the RIS 103 expires, the network entity 102-1 may transmit, to the UE 105, the indication of stopping the control of the RIS 103. For example, the network entity 102-1 may receive an indication or request from the UE 105 to continue controlling the RIS 103 in the time duration. Once the time duration expires, the network entity 102-1 may transmit the indication of stopping the control of the RIS 103.

With reference to FIG. 3, the UE 105 may evaluate 362 an event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103. If the event occurs, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the event may comprise that a measured value of quality of the link between the UE 105 and the RIS 103 is lower than or equal to a third threshold value. In other words, if the measured value of quality of the link between the UE 105 and the RIS 103 is lower than or equal to the third threshold value, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103. In some embodiments, the third threshold value may be configured or predefined. In some embodiments, the measured value may be RSRP, RSRQ, SINR, etc.

In some embodiments, the event may comprise that the UE 105 handovers from the network entity 102-1 to another network entity. For example, if the UE 105 controlling the RIS 103 handovers to other cells, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the event may comprise that the UE 105 moves out of coverage of the RIS 103. In other words, if the UE 105 controlling the RIS 103 moves out of coverage of the RIS 103, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the event may comprise that the UE 105 moves out of coverage of the network entity 102-1. In other words, if the UE 105 controlling the RIS 103 moves out of coverage of the network entity 102-1, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

With reference to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, if the event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103 occurs, the UE 105 may report 363, to the network entity 102-1, information that the UE 105 stops controlling the RIS 103 due to the event.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the network entity 102-1 may transmit 364, to the UE 105, a configuration of an event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103. Upon the configured event occurs, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the configuration of the event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103 may comprise a location or location range (also referred to as a first location or location range) in which the UE 105 is disabled to control the RIS 103. For example, the first location or location range may comprise moving out of coverage of the network entity 102-1, switching to other network entities, entering some predefined range location, etc. In some embodiments, if the UE 105 moves into the first location or location range, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the configuration of the event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103 may comprise an operation mode (also referred to as a second operation mode herein) of the RIS 103 for which the UE 105 is disabled to control the RIS 103. For example, the second operation mode may comprise a reflection mode, backscattering mode, etc. In some embodiments, if the RIS 103 is changed to the second operation mode, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

In some embodiments, the configuration of the event for triggering the UE 105 to stop controlling the RIS 103 may comprise a resource (also referred to as a first resource herein) that is unavailable for the UE 105 to control the RIS 103. For example, a specific time or frequency resource may be configured. In some embodiments, if the UE 105 uses the first resource to control the RIS 103, the UE 105 may stop controlling the RIS 103.

By designing the time point for starting or ending control of a RIS, UE control of a RIS may be enhanced. So far, an authorization for a UE to control a RIS may be enhanced. It is to be understood that operations described in the process 300 may be carried out separately or in any suitable combinations.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a device 400 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device 400 may be an example of a base station, a UE, or a core network element as described herein. The device 400 may support wireless communication with one or more network entities, UEs, core network elements or any combination thereof. The device 400 may include components for bi-directional communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as a processor 402, a memory 404, a transceiver 406, and, optionally, an I/O controller 408. These components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses) .

The processor 402, the memory 404, the transceiver 406, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of means for performing various aspects of the present disclosure as described herein. For example, the processor 402, the memory 404, the transceiver 406, or various combinations or components thereof may support a method for performing one or more of the operations described herein.

In some implementations, the processor 402, the memory 404, the transceiver 406, or various combinations or components thereof may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in communications management circuitry) . The hardware may include a processor, a digital signal processor (DSP) , an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) , a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof configured as or otherwise supporting a means for performing the functions described in the present disclosure. In some implementations, the processor 402 and the memory 404 coupled with the processor 402 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., executing, by the processor 402, instructions stored in the memory 404) .

For example, the processor 402 may support wireless communication at the device 400 in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some embodiments where the device 400 is a base station, the processor 402 may be configured to operable to support a means for: determining, based on a first condition, that a control node of a RIS is to be changed to a first UE; determining the first UE from a set of UEs; and transmitting, to the first UE, a request for authorizing the first UE to control the RIS. In some embodiments where the device 400 is a UE, the processor 402 may be configured to operable to support a means for: receiving, from a base station, a request for authorizing the UE to control a RIS; determining a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and starting controlling the RIS at the starting time point. In some embodiments where the device 400 is a core network element, the processor 402 may be configured to operable to support a means for: determining that a QoS requirement for a service via a RIS is not satisfied; and transmitting, to the base station, a request for changing a control node of the RIS to a UE.

The processor 402 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic component, a discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof) . In some implementations, the processor 402 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some other implementations, a memory controller may be integrated into the processor 402. The processor 402 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory 404) to cause the device 400 to perform various functions of the present disclosure.

The memory 404 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM) . The memory 404 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code including instructions that, when executed by the processor 402 cause the device 400 to perform various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as system memory or another type of memory. In some implementations, the code may not be directly executable by the processor 402 but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein. In some implementations, the memory 404 may include, among other things, a basic I/O system (BIOS) which may control basic hardware or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

The I/O controller 408 may manage input and output signals for the device 400. The I/O controller 408 may also manage peripherals not integrated into the device 400. In some implementations, the I/O controller 408 may represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral. In some implementations, the I/O controller 408 may utilize an operating system such as or another known operating system. In some implementations, the I/O controller 408 may be implemented as part of a processor, such as the processor 406. In some implementations, a user may interact with the device 400 via the I/O controller 408 or via hardware components controlled by the I/O controller 408.

In some implementations, the device 400 may include a single antenna 410. However, in some other implementations, the device 400 may have more than one antenna 410 (i.e., multiple antennas) , including multiple antenna panels or antenna arrays, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. The transceiver 406 may communicate bi-directionally, via the one or more antennas 410, wired, or wireless links as described herein. For example, the transceiver 406 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bi-directionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 406 may also include a modem to modulate the packets, to provide the modulated packets to one or more antennas 410 for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the one or more antennas 410. The transceiver 406 may include one or more transmit chains, one or more receive chains, or a combination thereof.

A transmit chain may be configured to generate and transmit signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) . The transmit chain may include at least one modulator for modulating data onto a carrier signal, preparing the signal for transmission over a wireless medium. The at least one modulator may be configured to support one or more techniques such as amplitude modulation (AM) , frequency modulation (FM) , or digital modulation schemes like phase-shift keying (PSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) . The transmit chain may also include at least one power amplifier configured to amplify the modulated signal to an appropriate power level suitable for transmission over the wireless medium. The transmit chain may also include one or more antennas 410 for transmitting the amplified signal into the air or wireless medium.

A receive chain may be configured to receive signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) over a wireless medium. For example, the receive chain may include one or more antennas 410 for receive the signal over the air or wireless medium. The receive chain may include at least one amplifier (e.g., a low-noise amplifier (LNA) ) configured to amplify the received signal. The receive chain may include at least one demodulator configured to demodulate the receive signal and obtain the transmitted data by reversing the modulation technique applied during transmission of the signal. The receive chain may include at least one decoder for decoding the processing the demodulated signal to receive the transmitted data.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a processor 500 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The processor 500 may be an example of a processor configured to perform various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. The processor 500 may include a controller 502 configured to perform various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. The processor 500 may optionally include at least one memory 504, such as L1/L2/L3 cache. Additionally, or alternatively, the processor 500 may optionally include one or more arithmetic-logic units (ALUs) 506. One or more of these components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses) .

The processor 500 may be a processor chipset and include a protocol stack (e.g., a software stack) executed by the processor chipset to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, obtaining, retrieving, transmitting, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, reading) in accordance with examples as described herein. The processor chipset may include one or more cores, one or more caches (e.g., memory local to or included in the processor chipset (e.g., the processor 500) or other memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM) , read-only memory (ROM) , dynamic RAM (DRAM) , synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM) , static RAM (SRAM) , ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) , magnetic RAM (MRAM) , resistive RAM (RRAM) , flash memory, phase change memory (PCM) , and others) .

The controller 502 may be configured to manage and coordinate various operations (e.g., signaling, receiving, obtaining, retrieving, transmitting, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, reading) of the processor 500 to cause the processor 500 to support various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. For example, the controller 502 may operate as a control unit of the processor 500, generating control signals that manage the operation of various components of the processor 500. These control signals include enabling or disabling functional units, selecting data paths, initiating memory access, and coordinating timing of operations.

The controller 502 may be configured to fetch (e.g., obtain, retrieve, receive) instructions from the memory 504 and determine subsequent instruction (s) to be executed to cause the processor 500 to support various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. The controller 502 may be configured to track memory address of instructions associated with the memory 504. The controller 502 may be configured to decode instructions to determine the operation to be performed and the operands involved. For example, the controller 502 may be configured to interpret the instruction and determine control signals to be output to other components of the processor 500 to cause the processor 500 to support various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 502 may be configured to manage flow of data within the processor 500. The controller 502 may be configured to control transfer of data between registers, arithmetic logic units (ALUs) , and other functional units of the processor 500.

The memory 504 may include one or more caches (e.g., memory local to or included in the processor 500 or other memory, such RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, MRAM, flash memory, etc. In some implementation, the memory 504 may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., local to the processor 500) . In some other implementations, the memory 504 may reside external to the processor chipset (e.g., remote to the processor 500) .

The memory 504 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code including instructions that, when executed by the processor 500, cause the processor 500 to perform various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as system memory or another type of memory. The controller 502 and/or the processor 500 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 504 to cause the processor 500 to perform various functions. For example, the processor 500 and/or the controller 502 may be coupled with or to the memory 504, and the processor 500, the controller 502, and the memory 504 may be configured to perform various functions described herein. In some examples, the processor 500 may include multiple processors and the memory 504 may include multiple memories. One or more of the multiple processors may be coupled with one or more of the multiple memories, which may, individually or collectively, be configured to perform various functions herein.

The one or more ALUs 506 may be configured to support various operations in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementation, the one or more ALUs 506 may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., the processor 500) . In some other implementations, the one or more ALUs 506 may reside external to the processor chipset (e.g., the processor 500) . One or more ALUs 506 may perform one or more computations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on data. For example, one or more ALUs 506 may receive input operands and an operation code, which determines an operation to be executed. One or more ALUs 506 be configured with a variety of logical and arithmetic circuits, including adders, subtractors, shifters, and logic gates, to process and manipulate the data according to the operation. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more ALUs 506 may support logical operations such as AND, OR, exclusive-OR (XOR) , not-OR (NOR) , and not-AND (NAND) , enabling the one or more ALUs 506 to handle conditional operations, comparisons, and bitwise operations.

The processor 500 may support wireless communication in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the processor 500 may be configured to or operable to support a means for: receiving, from a base station, a request for authorizing the UE to control a RIS; determining a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and starting controlling the RIS at the starting time point.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method 600 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 600 may be implemented by a device or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 600 may be performed by a base station (e.g., the network entity 102-1) as described herein. In some implementations, the device may execute a set of instructions to control the function elements of the device to perform the described functions. Additionally, or alternatively, the device may perform aspects of the described functions using special-purpose hardware.

At block 610, the method 600 may comprise determining, based on a first condition, that a control node of a RIS is to be changed to a first UE. The operations of 610 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 610 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the first condition may comprise at least one of the following: a request for changing the control node of the RIS to the first UE is received from a core network element or from a second UE served by the RIS; in accordance with a determination that a transmission from the base station to the RIS is performed, no response to the transmission is received from the RIS in a period of time or in a resource; quality of a first link between the base station and the RIS degrades; the second UE moves out of a UE group corresponding to the RIS; or an operation mode of the RIS is changed to a first operation mode in which the RIS is expected to be controlled by a UE. In some embodiments, the transmission from the base station to the RIS comprises at least one of the following: a transmission of a reference signal; a transmission of a message for random access of the RIS; or a transmission of control information for the RIS. In some embodiments, the UE group may comprise: a set of UEs that are located in an area served by the RIS; or a set of UEs that are served by a RSU.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise determining that the quality of the first link degrades based on at least one of the following: a measured value of the quality of the first link is lower than or equal to a first threshold value; number of first measured values of the quality of the first link in a first period of time is lower than a number threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value; or ratio of the first measured values of the quality of the first link in a second period of time is lower than a ratio threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise determining that the second UE moves out of the UE group based on at least one of the following: an indication of stopping a control for the RIS is received from the second UE; or a time duration in which the second UE is capable to control the RIS expires.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise determining that the operation mode of the RIS is changed to the first operation mode based on at least one of the following: an indication for changing the operation mode of the RIS to the first operation mode is received from the core network element or the further UE; or a first reference signal corresponding to the first operation mode is received from the second UE.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise at least one of the following: transmitting, to the RIS, a request for updating location information of the RIS; or receiving, from the RIS, updated location information of the RIS.

At block 620, the method 600 may comprise determining the first UE from a set of UEs. The operations of 620 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 620 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, determining the first UE may comprise determining the first UE based on at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is greater than or equal to a second threshold value; a distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance threshold; the distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance between the RIS and the base station; predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches moving trajectory information of the RIS; or in accordance with a determination that the set of UEs is a UE group corresponding to the RIS, the base station selects the first UE from the set of UEs based on at least one of a random selection, a priority of a service of a UE in the set of UEs, quality of a link between a UE in the set of UEs and the RIS, or predicted moving trajectory information of a UE in the set of UEs. In some embodiments, the UE group may comprise: a set of UEs that are located in an area served by the RIS; or a set of UEs that are served by a RSU.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: obtaining a set or subset of predicted results for moving trajectory of the first UE; and determining that the predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS based on at least one of the following: number of first predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a first number threshold, the first predicted results having a speed difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a first variance threshold; number of second predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a second number threshold, the second predicted results having an angle difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a second variance threshold; number of the first predicted results within a time window in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a third number threshold; or number of the second predicted results within an angular range in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a fourth number threshold.

At block 630, the method 600 may comprise transmitting, to the first UE, a request for authorizing the first UE to control the RIS. The operations of 630 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 630 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: transmitting, to the UE, information of a starting time point of controlling the RIS comprising one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the first UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the first UE; a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the first UE; or a pattern for controlling the RIS, the pattern being determined based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the first UE, a service of the UE, or quality of service (QoS) requirement of the first UE.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: receiving, from the first UE via the transceiver, information of a starting time point of controlling the RIS comprising at least one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the first UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the first UE; or a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the first UE.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: transmitting, to the first UE via the transceiver, an indication of stopping control of the RIS based on at least one of the following: the base station changes an operation mode of the RIS; the base station receives a handover command from a further base station; the base station receives, from a core network element, an indication that the UE has completed a service; or a time duration in which the first UE is capable to control the RIS expires.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: receiving, from the first UE, information that the first UE stops controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following: a time duration in which the first UE is allowed to control the RIS expires; an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station; or an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs. In some embodiments, the event may comprise at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is lower than or equal to a third threshold value; the first UE handovers from the base station to a further base station; the first UE moves out of coverage of the RIS; the first UE moves out of coverage of the base station; the first UE moves into a first location or location range; the RIS is changed to a second operation mode for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or the first UE uses a first resource to control the RIS.

In some embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: transmitting, to the first UE, a configuration of an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS, the configuration comprising at least one of the following: a first location or location range in which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; a second operation mode of the RIS for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or a first resource that is unavailable for the first UE to control the RIS.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of another method 700 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 700 may be implemented by a device or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 700 may be performed by a UE (e.g., the UE 101 or 105) as described herein. In some implementations, the device may execute a set of instructions to control the function elements of the device to perform the described functions. Additionally, or alternatively, the device may perform aspects of the described functions using special-purpose hardware.

At block 710, the method 700 may comprise receiving, from a base station, a request for authorizing the UE to control a RIS. The operations of 710 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 710 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

At block 720, the method 700 may comprise determining a starting time point of controlling the RIS. The operations of 720 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 720 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, determining the starting time point may comprise one of the following: determining, as the starting time point, a first time point after reception of the request by the UE; determining, as the starting time point, a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the UE; determining, as the starting time point, a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the UE; or determining the starting time point based on a configured pattern for controlling the RIS.

In some embodiments, the method 700 may further comprise one of the following: transmitting information of the first time point to the base station; transmitting information of the second time point to the base station; or transmitting information of the third time point to the base station.

In some embodiments, the method 700 may further comprise: stopping controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following: a time duration in which the UE is allowed to control the RIS expires; an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station; or an event for triggering the UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs. In some embodiments, the event may comprise at least one of the following: a measured value of quality of a second link between the UE and the RIS is lower than or equal to a third threshold value; the UE is handed over from a cell of the base station to a further cell; the UE moves out of coverage of the RIS; the UE moves out of coverage of the base station; the UE moves into a first location or location range; the RIS is changed to a second operation mode for which the UE is disabled to control the RIS; or the UE uses a first resource to control the RIS.

In some embodiments, the method 700 may further comprise transmitting, to the base station, information that the UE stops controlling the RIS.

In some embodiments, determining the starting time point may comprise: receiving, from the base station via the transceiver, information of the starting time point comprising one of the following: a first time point after reception of the request by the UE; a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the UE; a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the UE; or a pattern for controlling the RIS, the pattern being determined based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the UE, a service of the UE, or QoS requirement of the UE.

At block 730, the method 700 may include starting controlling the RIS at the starting time point. The operations of 730 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 730 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the method 700 may further comprise: in accordance with a determination that a QoS requirement of the UE is not satisfied, transmitting, to the base station via the transceiver, a request for changing the control node of the RIS.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of another method 800 that supports UE control of a RIS in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 800 may be implemented by a device or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of the method 800 may be performed by a core network element (e.g., the CN element 109) as described herein. In some implementations, the device may execute a set of instructions to control the function elements of the device to perform the described functions. Additionally, or alternatively, the device may perform aspects of the described functions using special-purpose hardware.

At block 810, the method 800 may comprise determining that a QoS requirement for a service via a RIS is not satisfied. The operations of 810 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 810 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

At block 820, the method 800 may comprise transmitting, to the base station, a request for changing a control node of the RIS to a UE. The operations of 820 may be performed in accordance with examples as described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operations of 820 may be performed by a device as described with reference to FIG. 1.

It is to be understood that the operations of the methods 600 to 800 correspond to that described in connection with FIG. 3, and thus other details are not repeated here for conciseness.

It should be noted that the methods described herein describe possible implementations, and that the operations and the steps may be rearranged or otherwise modified and that other implementations are possible. Further, aspects from two or more of the methods may be combined.

The various illustrative blocks and components described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented or performed with a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, a CPU, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Other examples and implementations are within the scope of the disclosure and appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, functions described herein may be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hardwiring, or combinations of any of these. Features implementing functions may also be physically located at various positions, including being distributed such that portions of functions are implemented at different physical locations.

Computer-readable media includes both non-transitory computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A non-transitory storage medium may be any available medium that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. By way of example, non-transitory computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM) , flash memory, compact disk (CD) ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transitory medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor.

As used herein, including in the claims, an article “a” before an element is unrestricted and understood to refer to “at least one” of those elements or “one or more” of those elements. The terms “a, ” “at least one, ” “one or more, ” and “at least one of one or more” may be interchangeable. As used herein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items (e.g., a list of items prefaced by a phrase such as “at least one of” or “one or more of” or “one or both of” ) indicates an inclusive list such that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C) . Also, as used herein, the phrase “based on” shall not be construed as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an example step that is described as “based on condition A” may be based on both a condition A and a condition B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, as used herein, the phrase “based on” shall be construed in the same manner as the phrase “based at least in part on. Further, as used herein, including in the claims, a “set” may include one or more elements.

The description herein is provided to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein but is to be accorded the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

A base station, comprising:

a processor; and

a transceiver coupled to the processor,

wherein the processor is configured to:

determine, based on a first condition, that a control node of a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is to be changed to a first user equipment (UE) ;

determine the first UE from a set of UEs; and

transmit, to the first UE via the transceiver, a request for authorizing the first UE to control the RIS.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the first condition comprises at least one of the following:

a request for changing the control node of the RIS to the first UE is received from a core network element or from a second UE served by the RIS;

in accordance with a determination that a transmission from the base station to the RIS is performed, no response to the transmission is received from the RIS in a period of time or in a resource;

quality of a first link between the base station and the RIS degrades;

the second UE moves out of a UE group corresponding to the RIS; or

an operation mode of the RIS is changed to a first operation mode in which the RIS is expected to be controlled by a UE.
The base station of claim 2, wherein the transmission from the base station to the RIS comprises at least one of the following:

a transmission of a reference signal;

a transmission of a message for random access of the RIS; or

a transmission of control information for the RIS.
The base station of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to:

determine that the quality of the first link degrades based on at least one of the following:

a measured value of the quality of the first link is lower than or equal to a first threshold value;

number of first measured values of the quality of the first link in a first period of time is lower than a number threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value; or

ratio of the first measured values of the quality of the first link in a second period of time is lower than a ratio threshold, the first measured values being lower than or equal to the first threshold value.
The base station of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to:

determine that the second UE moves out of the UE group based on at least one of the following:

an indication of stopping a control for the RIS is received from the second UE; or

a time duration in which the second UE is capable to control the RIS expires.
The base station of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to:

determine that the operation mode of the RIS is changed to the first operation mode based on at least one of the following:

an indication for changing the operation mode of the RIS to the first operation mode is received from the core network element or the further UE; or

a first reference signal corresponding to the first operation mode is received from the second UE.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to at least one of the following:

transmit, to the RIS, a request for updating location information of the RIS; or

receive, from the RIS, updated location information of the RIS.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine the first UE based on at least one of the following:

a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is greater than or equal to a second threshold value;

a distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance threshold;

the distance between the first UE and the RIS is smaller than a distance between the RIS and the base station;

predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches moving trajectory information of the RIS; or

in accordance with a determination that the set of UEs is a UE group corresponding to the RIS, the base station selects the first UE from the set of UEs based on at least one of a random selection, a priority of a service of a UE in the set of UEs, quality of a link between a UE in the set of UEs and the RIS, or predicted moving trajectory information of a UE in the set of UEs, wherein the UE group comprises: a set of UEs that are located in an area served by the RIS, or a set of UEs that are served by a road side unit (RSU) .
The base station of claim 8, wherein the processor is further configured to:

obtain a set or subset of predicted results for moving trajectory of the first UE; and

determine that the predicted moving trajectory information of the first UE matches the moving trajectory information of the RIS based on at least one of the following:

number of first predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a first number threshold, the first predicted results having a speed difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a first variance threshold;

number of second predicted results in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a second number threshold, the second predicted results having an angle difference or variance from the RIS that is lower than or equal to a second variance threshold;

number of the first predicted results within a time window in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a third number threshold; or

number of the second predicted results within an angular range in the set or subset of predicted results is larger than or equal to a fourth number threshold.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to:

transmit, to the UE via the transceiver, information of a starting time point of controlling the RIS comprising one of the following:

a first time point after reception of the request by the first UE;

a second time point after reception of a resource for controlling the RIS by the first UE;

a third time point after reception of a response to a configuration of control information from the RIS by the first UE; or

a pattern for controlling the RIS, the pattern being determined based on at least one of a traffic pattern of the first UE, a service of the UE, or quality of service (QoS) requirement of the first UE.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to:

transmit, to the first UE via the transceiver, an indication of stopping control of the RIS based on at least one of the following:

the base station changes an operation mode of the RIS;

the base station receives a handover command from a further base station;

the base station receives, from a core network element, an indication that the UE has completed a service; or

a time duration in which the first UE is capable to control the RIS expires.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to:

receive, from the first UE via the transceiver, information that the first UE stops controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following:

a time duration in which the first UE is allowed to control the RIS expires;

an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station; or

an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs.
The base station of claim 12, wherein the event comprises at least one of the following:

a measured value of quality of a second link between the first UE and the RIS is lower than or equal to a third threshold value;

the first UE handovers from the base station to a further base station;

the first UE moves out of coverage of the RIS;

the first UE moves out of coverage of the base station;

the first UE moves into a first location or location range;

the RIS is changed to a second operation mode for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or

the first UE uses a first resource to control the RIS.
The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to:

transmit, to the first UE via the transceiver, a configuration of an event for triggering the first UE to stop controlling the RIS, the configuration comprising at least one of the following:

a first location or location range in which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS;

a second operation mode of the RIS for which the first UE is disabled to control the RIS; or

a first resource that is unavailable for the first UE to control the RIS.
A user equipment (UE) , comprising:

a processor; and

a transceiver coupled to the processor,

wherein the processor is configured to:

receive, from a base station via the transceiver, a request for authorizing the UE to control a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) ;

determine a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and

start controlling the RIS at the starting time point.
The UE of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to one of the following:

transmit information of the first time point to the base station via the transceiver;

transmit information of the second time point to the base station via the transceiver; or

transmit information of the third time point to the base station via the transceiver.
The UE of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to:

stop controlling the RIS based on at least one of the following:

a time duration in which the UE is allowed to control the RIS expires,

an indication of stopping control of the RIS is received from the base station, or

an event for triggering the UE to stop controlling the RIS occurs; and

transmit, to the base station via the transceiver, information that the UE stops controlling the RIS.
The UE of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to:

in accordance with a determination that a quality of service (QoS) requirement of the UE is not satisfied, transmit, to the base station via the transceiver, a request for changing the control node of the RIS.
A processor for wireless communication, comprising:

at least one memory; and

a controller coupled with the at least one memory and configured to cause the processor to:

receive, from a base station, a request for authorizing a user equipment (UE) to control a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) ;

determine a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and

start controlling the RIS at the starting time point.
A method performed by a user equipment (UE) , comprising:

receiving, from a base station, a request for authorizing the UE to control a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) ;

determining a starting time point of controlling the RIS; and

starting controlling the RIS at the starting time point.