Multi-cell notification zone single frequency network

Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. A user equipment (UE) may operate in a radio resource control (RRC) inactive state of a discontinuous reception (DRX) mode. The UE may identify, based at least in part on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a single frequency network (SFN) for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone comprising a plurality of cells. The UE may receive one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) broadcast by the plurality of cells over the SFN. The UE may perform a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

BACKGROUND

The following relates generally to wireless communications, and more specifically to multi-cell notification zone single frequency network (SFN).

Wireless communication systems may operate in millimeter wave (mmW) frequency ranges, e.g., 28 GHz, 40 GHz, 60 GHz, etc. Wireless communications at these frequencies may be associated with increased signal attenuation (e.g., path loss), which may be influenced by various factors, such as temperature, barometric pressure, diffraction, etc. As a result, signal processing techniques, such as beamforming, may be used to coherently combine energy and overcome the path losses at these frequencies. Due to the increased amount of path loss in mmW communication systems, transmissions from the base station and/or the UE may be beamformed. Moreover, a receiving device may use beamforming techniques to configure antenna(s) and/or antenna array(s) such that transmissions are received in a directional manner.

In some aspects, wireless communication systems may include UEs operating in a discontinuous reception (DRX) mode. For example, a UE may be in an idle state where functions, components, processes, and the like, of the UE are turned off to conserve power and/or for an initial access procedure. In some aspects, the UE may be in an inactive state, e.g., in RRC inactive state, where the UE is not performing ongoing communications, but maintains an updated association with the network, e.g., current access stratum (AS) context. For example, the UE specific DRX may be configured by upper layers and/or by an RRC layer. As another example, the UE may be operating in an RRC connected or active state for ongoing communications, e.g., for communicating control and/or data information. However, DRX operations may be difficult in some wireless networks, such as a mmW wireless network, where the base station typically is configured to use beam sweeping operations for paging and other signaling for a UE. This may result in wasted resources, e.g., over the air resources and/or increased overhead.

SUMMARY

The described techniques relate to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses that support a multi-cell notification zone single frequency network (SFN). Generally, the described techniques provide a mechanism for a UE to use synchronization signals from a SFN notification zone to support hierarchical mobility. For example, the UE may be operating in a discontinuous reception (DRX) mode in a wireless network. In some aspects, the UE may be operating in a radio resource control (RRC) active or inactive state of the DRX mode. In some aspects, the network may configure an SFN for the UE based on the UE operating in the RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode. Generally, the SFN may include a plurality of cells that are located proximate to the UE, e.g., within the notification zone, and are configured the transmit signals to the UE over the SFN. In some aspects, the signals may include synchronization signals, such as a synchronization signal block (SSB), e.g., primary synchronization signals (PSS), secondary synchronization signals (SSSs), physical broadcast channel (PBCH) signals, and/or a signal carrying or otherwise indicating a notification zone identification. Accordingly, the UE may identify the SFN for the notification zone based on the UE operating in the RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode. The UE may receive the signal(s) (e.g., SSBs) broadcast by one or more of the cells within the notification zone over the SFN and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the received signal(s). The UE may transmit the feedback information to one or more of the cells within the notification zone and/or use the results of the channel measurement procedure to maintain a current connection to the cells, e.g., timing synchronization/tracking, acceptable channel performance metrics, frequency tracking, etc.

A method of wireless communication at a UE is described. The method may include operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identifying, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receiving one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and performing a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

An apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

Another apparatus for wireless communication at a UE is described. The apparatus may include means for operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identifying, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receiving one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and performing a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a set of SSBs within a transmission occasion, where the channel measurement procedure may be based on the set of SSBs received within the transmission occasion.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the one or more SSBs over a set of transmission occasions, where the channel measurement procedure may be based on the one or more SSBs received over the set of transmission occasions.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for updating one or more of a timing tracking function, or a frequency tracking function, or a combination thereof, based on the one or more SSBs broadcast by the cells within the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a signal carrying configuration of SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the signal includes a system information signal, or a RRC message, or a combination thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the signal indicates one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, or a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs, or a combination thereof.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving, based on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone may be configured for the UE.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a signal indicating that a network entity supports the SFN for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving one or more cell-specific SSBs from one or more cells of the set of cells.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a resource mapping identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the resource mapping includes a cell-specific bitmap.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for decoding the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, a PSS associated with the SSS includes a defined identifier that may be different from the identifier for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for decoding the PSS and the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs may be received on a non-synchronized raster with respect to one or more cell-specific SSBs from the set of cells.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a number associated with the one or more SSBs based on a number associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the set of cells, on a configuration signal received by the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based on a periodicity associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the set of cells or on a configuration signal received by the UE.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs include one or more of a PSS, or a SSS, or a PBCH signal, or a combination thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the channel measurement procedure may be used to identify a channel performance metric indicating one or more of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), a reference signal received quality (RSRQ), a reference signal received power (RSRP), a SNR, a signal-plus-interference-to-noise ratio (SINR), a throughput, an error rate, or combinations thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs include a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.

A method of wireless communication at a base station is described. The method may include transmitting one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determining that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmitting one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

Another apparatus for wireless communication at a base station is described. The apparatus may include means for transmitting one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determining that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmitting one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a base station is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting, over the SFN, a set of SSBs within a transmission occasion.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting, over the SFN, one or more SSBs over a set of transmission occasions.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a signal to the UE identifying the SFN for the notification zone.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the signal indicates one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, or a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs, or a combination thereof.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting, based on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone may be configured for the UE.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a second signal indicating support for the SFN for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a resource mapping to the UE identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that at least partially overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for wherein the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that do not overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for encoding the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for configuring a PSS associated with the SSS to indicate a defined identifier that may be different from the identifier for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for encoding the PSS and the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a same waveform as may be used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a different waveform as may be used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs may be transmitted on a non-synchronized raster with respect to the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a number associated with the one or more SSBs based on a number associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs, on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for identifying a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based on a periodicity associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs or on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs include one or more of a PSS, a SSS, or a PBCH signal.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that the UE may be operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode and configuring, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, the SFN for the UE for the notification zone, the notification zone including a set of cells.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more SSBs include a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some wireless communication systems may operate in millimeter wave (mmW) frequency ranges (e.g., 28 GHz, 40 GHz, 60 GHz, etc.). In some cases, wireless communication at these frequencies may be associated with increased signal attenuation (e.g., path loss), which may be influenced by various factors, such as temperature, barometric pressure, diffraction, etc. As a result, signal processing techniques such as beamforming (i.e., directional transmission) may be used to coherently combine signal energy and overcome the path loss in specific beam directions. In some cases, a device may select an active beam for communicating with a network by selecting the strongest beam from among a number of candidate beams.

In some aspects, wireless communication systems may be configured for a user equipment (UE) to operate in a discontinuous reception (DRX) mode. For example, the UE may operate in a radio resource control (RRC) connected state for active communications. The UE may operate in an RRC inactive state, where the UE maintains some context with respect to the non-access stratum (NAS). In some aspects, the UE may operate in an RRC idle state of the DRX mode, e.g., for no active communications, initial access, and the like. In some aspects, the DRX mode may be inefficient and/or ineffective in terms of supporting the UE while operating in various states of the DRX mode.

Aspects of the disclosure are initially described in the context of a wireless communication system. In some aspects, the described techniques introduce a single frequency network (SFN) synchronization signal (SS) for a notification zone. In some aspects, the SFN for the notification zone may operate as a reference signal for a UE to support hierarchical mobility procedures and/or time/frequency tracking. For example, the UE may be operating in an RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode. The network may configure the SFN for the notification zone of the UE, which includes a plurality of cells (e.g., base stations) located within the notification zone. The UE may identify the SFN for the notification zone and receive one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) that are broadcast by the cells within the notification zone. For example, each cell within the notification zone may broadcast SSBs over the SFN in an omni-directional broadcast, and/or a directional broadcast. The UE may receive the SSBs broadcast over the SFN and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the SSBs. For example, the UE may use the SSBs broadcast over the SFN to determine a reference signal received quality (RSRQ), a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), and the like, for the received SSBs. In some aspects, the UE may use the SSB broadcast over the SFN for timing correction, frequency tracking, and the like. Accordingly, the SFN for the notification zone provides a rapid and easily monitored network by which the UE operating in the RRC inactive state of the DRX mode ensures an up-to-date access stratum context information.

Aspects of the disclosure are further illustrated by and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flowcharts that relate to multi-cell notification zone SFN.

In some aspects, a UE115may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. The UE115may identify, based at least in part on the UE115operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE115, the notification zone comprising a plurality of cells (e.g., base stations105). The UE115may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the plurality of cells over the SFN. The UE115may perform a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

In some aspects, a network entity (such as one or more functions operating within core network130) may determine that a UE115is operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. The network entity may configure, based at least in part on the UE115operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for the UE115for a notification zone, the notification zone comprising a plurality of cells. The network entity may transmit, e.g., via a serving base station105and/or one or more cells within the notification zone, a signal to the UE115identifying the SFN for the notification zone. For ease of reference, aspects of the functionalities performed by the network entity will be describes as being performed by a base station105.

In some aspects, a base station105may transmitting one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE115. The base station105may determine that the base station105is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE115. The base station105may transmit one or more SSBS to the UE115over the SFN for the notification zone.

FIG. 2illustrates an example of a wireless communication system200that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, wireless communication system200may implement aspects of wireless communication system100. Wireless communication system200may include a plurality of base stations205(with three being shown by way of example only) and a UE220, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein. In some aspects, wireless communication system200may be a SFN configured for notification zone215. In some aspects, the functionalities described with respect to the base stations205may refer to functionalities performed by a network entity, such as one or more functions of a core network.

In some aspects, UE220may be operating in an RRC active or inactive state of a DRX mode. Based at least in part on UE220operating in the RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode, a network entity may configure a SFN for UE220. In some aspects, an SFN may refer to a broadcast network where several transmitters (e.g., a plurality of cells, such as base stations205) simultaneously send the same signal over the same frequency channel to UE220. For example, each of the base stations205, e.g., cells, may form the SFN for the notification zone215that is configured for UE220. In some aspects, the size of the notification zone215and/or number of base stations205included in the notification zone215may be selected based on the mobility of the UE220, on the size of the coverage area210associated with each respective base station205, the location of UE220within the notification zone215, on historical information associated with UE220(e.g., historical mobility patterns), and/or on projected information associated with UE220(e.g., based on a forecasted mobility of the UE220). Accordingly, the notification zone215can have more or fewer base stations205. In some aspects, the notification zone215may also be referred to as a radio access network (RAN)-based notification area (RNA). In some aspects, the notification zone215may cover a smaller geographical area than a tracking area configured for the UE220. For example, in some aspects the base stations205of the notification zone215may be a subset of base stations forming a tracking area for the UE220.

In some aspects, a network entity may configure the SFN for the notification zone215based on support for SFN operations within the notification zone215. For example, the UE220may transmit a signal to the network entity that indicates that the UE220supports SFN operations within a notification zone. Accordingly, the network entity may transmit a second signal to the UE220that indicates or otherwise identifies that the SFN for the notification zone215has been configured for the UE220. In other aspects, the network entity may simply transmit a signal indicating support for the SFN operations for the notification zone215, e.g., may convey an indication that the network supports SFN operations for notification zone.

In some aspects, the network entity may notify UE220of the SFN configured for the notification zone215. For example, the network entity may transmit a signal (e.g., via the serving base station205of UE220during the DRX mode configuration and/or via one or more base stations205broadcast over the SFN) to UE220that identifies the SFN for the notification zone215. For example, the signal may identify or otherwise convey an indication of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of SSBs, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the SSBs, and/or a numerology parameter for the SSBs. In some aspects, the signal may include a system information signal and/or a RRC message.

In some aspects, one or any combination of the following information for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for notification zone215may be signaled to UE220, e.g., signaled via system information or RRC message. In some aspects, this may include a frequency location (e.g., absolute radio frequency channel number (ARFCN)). In some aspects, this may include a time location (e.g., offset relative to a reference time, such as subframe number #0 of the serving cell). In some aspects, this may include a notification zone215SSB periodicity. In some aspects, this may include a notification zone215SSB numerology.

In some aspects, this may include a mapping between the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN of the notification zone215and cell specific SSB(s) transmitted by the individual cells within the notification zone215. In some aspects, this may include the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN being mapped to potential location(s) (e.g., time and/or frequency locations) of cell specific SSBs, e.g., when there are locations available. When there are no locations available, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN may be mapped to locations outside of the locations (e.g., to other time and/or frequency resources) used for the cell specific SSBs. When receiving broadcast channels, such as PDCCH/PDSCH for SIB1, PDCCH/PDSCH for paging, and/or other system information blocks, UEs may assume that no SSBs are broadcast over the SFN within the configured resources of such broadcast channels. In some aspects, when one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN are mapped to potential locations of the cell specific SSBs, their actual locations may be signaled to the UE220as a part of an indication for an actually transmitted cell-specific SSB bitmap.

In some examples, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN may collide with the cell-specific SSBs. In some aspects, the network entity may schedule (e.g., map) the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN to avoid any such collision. In some aspects, this may include one more SSBs broadcast over the SFN puncturing one or more resource elements that contain the cell specific SSBs. In some aspects, this may include none of the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN of the notification zone215being transmitted during a transmission occasion where they collide with at least K resource elements containing the cell specific SSBs.

In some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN may simply include a secondary synchronization signal (SSS). In other aspects, the one or more SSBs may include a primary synchronization signal (PSS) and the SSS. In other aspects, the one or more SSBs may include a PSS, and SSS, and a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) signal transmitted by the base stations205over the SFN for the notification zone215. That is, in some aspects the notification zone215SSBs may include SSS only or PSS/SSS only or PSS/SSS/PBCH. When the SSBs broadcast over the SFN include PBCH signals, the PBCH signal may carry or otherwise convey an indication of notification zone-specific system information, e.g., control resource set information, PDCCH search space configuration for paging PDCCH over the notification zone215, and the like. In the instance where the notification zone215SSBs include PSS/SSS, the waveform for the SSBs may be identical to the cell-specific SSBs waveform (e.g., PSS/SSS waveform), or may use a different waveform than the cell-specific SSBs waveform. In some aspects where the notification zone215SSBs include both PSS and SSS, an identifier for the notification zone215may be conveyed or otherwise indicated via the notification zone215PSS/SSS. This may be different from a cell specific SSBs (e.g., cell specific PSS/SSS) where the cell identifier is conveyed through a cell-specific PSS/SSS. In some aspects, the notification zone215SSBs broadcast over the SFN may be transmitted in an omni-directional transmission and/or in a directional transmission using one or more beams. In some aspects, each base station205of the notification zone215may broadcast their respective SSBs over the SFN at the same time.

When the notification zone215SSBs includes only the SSS, a notification zone215identifier may be conveyed through the notification zone215SSS. In this instance, an identifier conveyed in the PSS that is associated with the SSS may be a predefined value, e.g., a fixed 0 or 1 or 2, used when computing the notification zone215identifier.

In some aspects, the numerology for the SSB broadcast by the base stations205over the SFN of the notification zone215may be based on different options. In a first option, the numerology for the SSBs may be the same as the numerology used for cell specific SSBs (e.g. cell specific SS) numerology. In a second option, the numerology for the SSB broadcast over the SFN may be configured for UE220, e.g., in a system information signal and/or in a RRC message. In third option, the numerology for the SSBs broadcast over the SFN may be the same as a numerology used for a notification zone215SFN paging occasion.

In some aspects, the periodicity for the SSBs broadcast over the SFN by the base stations205may also be based on different options. In a first option, the SSBs broadcast over the SFN may be broadcast using the same periodicity as cell specific SSBs, which may be signaled in system information. In another option, the periodicity may be configured as part of the notification zone215SFN configuration. In some aspects, the SSBs may be transmitted over one or more transmission occasions. For example, one or more SSBs may be transmitted within each transmission occasion and/or an SSB may be transmitted during a transmission occasion. Other options may also be considered.

In some aspects, the SSBs may be broadcast over the SFN using a defined antenna port and/or quasi co-location (QCL) configuration. As one example, the signals and/or channels used for the notification zone215SSBs may be transmitted over the same antenna ports/QCL configuration and/or different antenna ports/QCL configurations. In some aspects, the SSBs broadcast over the SFN may be transmitted over different antenna ports than are used for cell specific SSBs. In some aspects, there may be no QCL between the notification zone215SSBs and cell specific SSBs broadcast by the base stations205within the notification zone215.

Thus, the base stations205within the notification zone215may additionally transmit cell specific SSBs, which are different than, at least in some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone215. That is, UE220may also receive one or more cell specific SSBs from one or more cells of the plurality of cells (e.g., at least one base station205of the plurality of base stations205) of the notification zone215. For example, the notification zone215SSBs may be received on the same or on a different frequency than the cell specific SSBs, at the same time or at a different time than the cell specific SSBs, and the like. In some aspects, the notification zone215SSBs may be received on a non-synchronized raster with respect to the cell specific SSBs.

Accordingly, the base stations205of the notification zone215may transmit cell-specific SSBs as well as the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone215. The one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone215may use some, all, or none of the resources used for the cell-specific SSBs.

In some aspects, the UE220may monitor the SFN for the notification zone215while operating in the RRC inactive state of the DRX mode. Accordingly, UE220may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the plurality of cells (e.g., base stations205-a,205-b, and/or205-c) over the SFN and perform a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the received SSBs. Generally, the channel measurement procedure may provide an indication of a channel performance metric for a channel between UE220and at least one of the base stations205. In some aspects, the channel measurement procedure may support timing synchronization/tracking, mobility tracking, and the like. Examples of the channel performance metric may include, but are not limited to, RSSI, RSRP, a reference signal received quality (RSRQ), a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), a throughput, an error rate, and the like, for the channel. In some aspects, the channel measurement procedure may be based on a plurality of SSBs that are broadcast within a transmission occasion, e.g., to support the timing synchronization. Additionally or alternatively, the channel measurement procedure may be based on one or more SSBs received over a plurality of transmission occasions, e.g., to support channel performance metric determination.

In some aspects, UE220may transmit a feedback message to one or more of the cells (e.g. one or more of the base stations205) that carries or otherwise convey an indication of the channel performance metric.

FIG. 3illustrates an example of a wireless communication system300that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, wireless communication system300may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200. Wireless communication system300may include a plurality of base stations305and a UE320, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein. Aspects of wireless communication system300may be a SFN configured for notification zone310. In some aspects, the functionalities described with respect to the base stations305may refer to functionalities performed by a network entity, such as one or more functions of a core network.

In some aspects, UE320may be operating in an RRC inactive or idle state of a DRX mode. Based at least in part on UE320operating in the RRC inactive or idle state of the DRX mode, a tracking area315may be configured for the UE320. For example, the tracking area315may include a plurality of base stations305(with nine base stations305being shown by way of example only) configured to transmit signals, e.g., paging signals, to UE320in a beam sweeping manner, e.g., using a plurality of beamformed transmissions. When a paging event (or occasion) occurs for UE320, the network entity may signal each base station305within the tracking area315to transmit a paging indicator/message in the beam sweeping manner to ensure coverage within each base station's305respective coverage area. While the tracking area315may provide a wide coverage area in which UE320can be paged, the tracking area315being used to page UE320also consumes a considerable amount of resources and/or reduces efficiency.

Additionally or alternatively, the UE320may be operating in an RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode. Based at least in part on UE320operating in the RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode, a network entity may configure a SFN for UE320. In some aspects, an SFN may refer to a broadcast network where several transmitters (e.g., a plurality of cells, such as base stations305) simultaneously send the same signal over the same frequency channel to UE320. For example, a plurality of the base stations305(with three base stations305being shown by way of example only) may form the SFN for a notification zone310that is configured for UE320. In some aspects, the size of the notification zone310and/or number of base stations305included in the notification zone310may vary. Accordingly, the notification zone310can have more or fewer base stations305.

In some aspects, this may include the base stations305forming the notification zone310broadcasting one or more SSBs over the SFN of the notification zone310. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN may include a SSS, a PSS, and/or a PBCH signal transmitted by the base stations305over the SFN for the notification zone310. In some aspects, the periodicity, timing, and/or frequency for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN by the base stations305may be the same or different with respect to cell specific SSBs transmitted by individual base stations305of the notification zone310.

Accordingly, the base stations305of the notification zone310may transmit cell-specific SSBs as well as the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone310. The one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone310may use some, all, or none of the resources used for the cell-specific SSBs.

In some aspects, the UE320may monitor the SFN for the notification zone310while operating in the RRC inactive or active state of the DRX mode. Accordingly, UE320may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the plurality of cells (e.g., base stations305located within the notification zone310) over the SFN and perform a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the received SSBs. Generally, the channel measurement procedure may provide an indication of a channel performance metric for a channel between UE320and at least one of the base stations305. In some aspects, the channel measurement procedure may support timing synchronization/tracking, mobility tracking, frequency tracking, and the like. In some aspects, UE320may transmit a feedback message to one or more of the cells (e.g. one or more of the base stations235) that carries or otherwise convey an indication of the channel performance metric.

FIG. 4illustrates an example of a wireless communication system400that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, wireless communication system400may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300. Wireless communication system400may include a plurality of base stations405and a UE415, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein. In some aspects, wireless communication system400may, in some aspects, be a SFN configured for notification zone410that supports hierarchical mobility and paging functions for UE415. In some aspects, the functionalities described with respect to the base stations405may refer to functionalities performed by a network entity, such as one or more functions of a core network.

In some aspects, UE415may be operating in an RRC active or inactive state of a DRX mode. Based at least in part on UE415operating in the RRC active or inactive state of the DRX mode, a network entity may configure a SFN for UE415. In some aspects, an SFN may refer to a broadcast network where several transmitters (e.g., a plurality of cells, such as base stations405) simultaneously send the same signal over the same frequency channel to UE415. For example, each of the base stations405, e.g., cells, may form the SFN for the notification zone410that is configured for UE415.

In some aspects, this may include the base stations405forming the notification zone410broadcasting one or more SSBs over the SFN of the notification zone410(shown in the top ofFIG. 4). In some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN may include a SSS, a PSS, and/or a PBCH signal transmitted by the base stations405over the SFN for the notification zone410. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone410may be transmitted using an omni-directional transmission.

In some aspects, this may include the base stations405forming the notification zone410broadcasting, respectively, cell-specific SSBs within their respective coverage areas (shown in the bottom ofFIG. 4). In some aspects, the one or more cell-specific SSBs broadcast by the base stations405forming the notification zone410may be transmitted in a beam sweeping manner using a plurality of transmit beams.

In some aspects, the periodicity, timing, and/or frequency for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN by the base stations405may be the same or different with respect to the cell specific SSBs transmitted by individual base stations405within the notification zone410. Accordingly, the base stations405of the notification zone410may transmit cell-specific SSBs as well as the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone410. The one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone410may use some, all, or none, of the resources used for the cell-specific SSBs.

In some aspects, the UE415may monitor the SFN for the notification zone410while operating in the RRC inactive or active state of the DRX mode. Accordingly, UE415may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the plurality of cells (e.g., base stations405located within the notification zone410) over the SFN and/or cell-specific SSBs transmitted by respective base stations405within the notification zone410and perform a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the received SSBs. Generally, the channel measurement procedure may provide an indication of a channel performance metric for a channel between UE415and at least one of the base stations405. In some aspects, the channel measurement procedure may support timing synchronization/tracking, mobility tracking, frequency tracking, and the like. In some aspects, UE415may transmit a feedback message to one or more of the cells (e.g. one or more of the base stations405) that carries or otherwise convey an indication of the channel performance metric.

FIG. 5illustrates an example of a SSB configuration500that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, SSB configuration500may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400. Aspects of SSB configuration500may be implemented by a network entity, base station, and/or UE, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein.

Generally, a network entity may configure a SFN for a notification zone for a UE when the UE is operating in a RRC active or inactive state of a DRX mode. In some aspects, the notification zone (e.g., RNA) may include a plurality of cells, e.g., base stations. In the example SSB configuration500, the notification zone includes three cells (e.g., cell1, cell2, and cell3), although notification zones having more or fewer cells may also be used. Generally, the SFN for the notification zone may be used to broadcast one or more SSBs510over the SFN from the cells within the notification zone. For example, each of the cells within the notification zone may broadcast over the SFN one or more SSBs510on the same frequency channel, at the same time, and the like. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone may be broadcast in a omni-directional transmission and/or in a directional transmission using one or more beams. In the example SSB configuration500, the one or more SSBs510are broadcast in an omni-directional transmission and at the same time.

In some aspects, the plurality of cells forming the SFN for the notification zone may also transmit cell specific SSBs505in a beam sweeping manner. For example, cell1may transmit a cell specific SSB505on beam one during a first time period, followed by transmitting the cell specific SSB505on beam two during a second time period, and so forth. Cells2and3may also transmit cell specific SSBs505in a beam sweeping manner, where each cell specific SSB is transmitted on a particular beam during a particular time period.

In some aspects, the cell specific SSBs505may be transmitted at the same time or at a different time as the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN. In the example SSB configuration500, the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN are transmitted at the same time as the cell specific SSB505transmitted on beam one by cells1-3. In some aspects, the cell specific SSBs505may be transmitted using the same periodicity and/or a different periodicity as the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN. In some aspects, the cell specific SSBs505may be transmitted using the same numerology or a different numerology as the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN. In some aspects, the cell specific SSBs505may be transmitted using a different identifier or the same identifier as is associated with the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN.

In some aspects, a UE may receive the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN and use the one or more SSBs510to perform a channel measurement procedure, e.g., to determine a channel performance metric and/or for timing/frequency synchronization and alignment. In some aspects, the UE may transmit a feedback report to one or more cells within the notification zone carrying or otherwise conveying an indication of a result of the channel measurement procedure. In some aspects, the UE may simply use the results of the channel measurement procedure for channel performance determination, timing synchronization, and the like.

Thus, SSB configuration500provides a mechanism where the UE behavior is simplified by monitoring the one or more SSBs510broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone for channel performance determination and/or paging. In some aspects, a paging overhead may be reduced in time using SSB configuration500due to the simultaneous notification zone paging.

FIG. 6illustrates an example of a SSB configuration600that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, SSB configuration600may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400and/or SSB configuration500. Aspects of SSB configuration600may be implemented by a network entity, base station, and/or UE, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein.

Generally, a network entity may configure a SFN for a notification zone for a UE when the UE is operating in a RRC inactive state (or RRC active state) of a DRX mode. In some aspects, the notification zone (e.g., RNA) may include a plurality of cells, e.g., base stations. Generally, the SFN for the notification zone may be used to broadcast one or more SSBs605over the SFN from the cells within the notification zone. For example, each of the cells within the notification zone may broadcast over the SFN one or more SSBs605on the same frequency channel, at the same time, and the like. In the example SSB configuration600, the one or more SSBs605are broadcast over the SFN on frequency two by each cell within the notification zone. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs605broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone may be broadcast in a omni-directional transmission and/or in a directional transmission using one or more beams. In the example SSB configuration600, the one or more SSBs605are broadcast in an omni-directional transmission and at the same time.

In some aspects, the plurality of cells forming the SFN for the notification zone may also transmit cell specific SSBs610in a beam sweeping manner. For example, cell one may transmit a cell specific SSB610during a first time period, followed by transmitting the cell specific SSB610during a second time period, and so forth. In some aspects, the cell specific SSB610transmitted in the first time period and the cell specific SSB610transmitted in the second time period may be directional transmissions, e.g., transmitted using different transmit beams. In other aspects, the cell specific SSB610transmitted in the first time period and the cell specific SSB610transmitted in the second time period may be omni-directional transmissions. In the example SSB configuration600, the cell specific SSBs610are transmitted on frequency one, which is different from frequency two used for broadcasting the one or more SSBs605over the SFN.

In some aspects, a UE may receive the one or more SSBs605broadcast over the SFN and use the one or more SSBs605to perform a channel measurement procedure, e.g., to determine a channel performance metric and/or for timing synchronization/alignment. In some aspects, the UE may transmit a feedback report to one or more cells within the notification zone carrying or otherwise conveying an indication of a result of the channel measurement procedure. In some aspects, the UE may simply use the results of the channel measurement procedure for channel performance determination, timing synchronization, and the like.

In some aspects, SSB configuration600provides one example of multiplexing of one or more SSBs605broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone and cell specific SSBs610transmitted by individual cells within the notification zone. In the example SSB configuration600, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone and the cell-specific SSBs610use different frequencies. In some aspects, this may include the one or more SSBs605broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone being transmitted on the non-sync raster when or more SSBs605includes both the notification zone PSS/SSS. For example, this may provide some frequency separation between the frequency location of the one or more SSBs605and the closest sync raster to avoid confusion for initial access UEs.

Thus, SSB configuration600provides a mechanism where the UE behavior is simplified by monitoring the one or more SSBs605broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone for channel performance determination and/or paging. In some aspects, a paging overhead may be reduced in time using SSB configuration600due to the simultaneous notification zone paging.

FIG. 7illustrates an example of a SSB configuration700that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, SSB configuration700may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400and/or SSB configurations500/600. Aspects of SSB configuration700may be implemented by a network entity, base station, and/or UE, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein.

Generally, a network entity may configure a SFN for a notification zone for a UE when the UE is operating in a RRC inactive state or active state of a DRX mode. In some aspects, the notification zone (e.g., RNA) may include a plurality of cells, e.g., base stations. Generally, the SFN for the notification zone may be used to broadcast one or more SSBs710over the SFN from the cells within the notification zone. For example, each of the cells within the notification zone may broadcast over the SFN one or more SSBs710on the same frequency channel, at the same time, and the like. In the example SSB configuration700, the one or more SSBs710are broadcast over the SFN on frequency one by each cell within the notification zone. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone may be broadcast in a omni-directional transmission and/or in a directional transmission using one or more beams.

In some aspects, the plurality of cells forming the SFN for the notification zone may also transmit cell specific SSBs705. For example, a cell may transmit a cell specific SSB705during a first time period, followed by transmitting the cell specific SSB705again during a second time period, and so forth. In some aspects, the cell specific SSB705transmitted in the first time period and the cell specific SSB705transmitted in the second time period may be directional transmissions, e.g., transmitting using different transmit beams. In other aspects, the cell specific SSB705transmitted in the first time period and the cell specific SSB705transmitted in the second time period may be omni-directional transmissions. In the example SSB configuration700, the cell specific SSBs705are transmitted on frequency one, which is the same frequency used for broadcasting the one or more SSBs710over the SFN.

In the example SSB configuration700, the cell specific SSBs705are transmitted at a different time as the one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN. In some aspects, a UE may receive the one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN and use the one or more SSBs710to perform a channel measurement procedure, e.g., to determine a channel performance metric and/or for timing synchronization/alignment/tracking. In some aspects, the UE may transmit a feedback report to one or more cells within the notification zone carrying or otherwise conveying an indication of a result of the channel measurement procedure. In some aspects, the UE may simply use the results of the channel measurement procedure for channel performance determination, timing synchronization/tracking, and the like.

In some aspects, SSB configuration700provides one example of multiplexing of one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone and cell specific SSBs705transmitted by individual cells within the notification zone. In the example SSB configuration700, the one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN of the notification zone and the cell-specific SSBs705are transmitted using the same frequency. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs710and the cell specific SSBs705may be transmitted using the same center frequency. In some aspects, a subset of identifiers used for the cell specific SSBs705may be reserved as identifiers for the one or more SSBs710broadcast over the SFN, e.g., to distinguish from cell-specific SSBs705when the one or more SSBs710include both PSS/SSS for the notification zone. Based on whether the identifier is from the subset of identifiers, an initial access UE may be able to distinguish between the one or more SSBs710and the cell specific SSBs705.

FIG. 8illustrates an example of a SSB configuration800that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, SSB configuration800may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400and/or SSB configurations500/600/700. Aspects of SSB configuration800may be implemented by a network entity, base station, and/or UE, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein.

Generally, a network entity may configure a SFN for a notification zone for a UE when the UE is operating in a RRC inactive state or active state of a DRX mode. In some aspects, the notification zone (e.g., RNA) may include a plurality of cells. Generally, the SFN for the notification zone may be used to broadcast one or more SSBs805over the SFN from the cells within the notification zone. For example, each of the cells within the notification zone may broadcast over the SFN one or more SSBs805on the same frequency channel, at the same time, and the like. In the example SSB configuration800, the one or more SSBs805are broadcast over the SFN on frequency one by each cell within the notification zone. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs805broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone may be broadcast in a omni-directional transmission and/or in a directional transmission using one or more beams.

Generally, the one or more SSBs805may be broadcast over the SFN separated by the time separation810and/or according to a periodicity815. In some aspects, the periodicity815may also be referred to as a transmission occasion. The time separation810may generally refer to the separation in time between transmissions of the one or more SSBs805broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone within a transmission occasion. Accordingly, one or more SSBs805may be broadcast over the SFN according to a pattern (e.g., varying degrees of time separation810between each instance), where the pattern is repeated for each transmission occasion (e.g., periodicity815).

As is discussed above, the cells within the notification zone may also transmit cell specific SSBs (not shown) in addition to the one or more SSBs805broadcast over the SFN of the notification zone.

In some aspects, a UE may receive the one or more SSBs805broadcast over the SFN and use the one or more SSBs805to perform a channel measurement procedure, e.g., to determine a channel performance metric and/or for timing and/or frequency synchronization/alignment/tracking. In some aspects, the UE may use the one or more SSBs805transmitted within a transmission occasion to perform timing synchronization and tracking, e.g., the time separation810may be dependent upon the required accuracy for Doppler estimation. In some aspects, the UE may use the one or more SSBs805transmitted within a transmission occasion and/or over multiple transmission occasions to perform channel performance determinations. For example, the channel performance measurement procedure may be based on one or more SSBs805transmitted within a transmission occasion, e.g., for tracking, and/or one or more SSBs805transmitted across multiple transmission occasions, e.g. for channel performance determination. In some aspects, the UE may transmit a feedback report to one or more cells within the notification zone carrying or otherwise conveying an indication of a result of the channel measurement procedure. In some aspects, the UE may simply use the results of the channel measurement procedure for channel performance determination, timing synchronization/tracking, and the like.

In some aspects, the UE may monitor the one or more SSB805for channel performance determination. In some aspects, this may include support for notification zone based paging. In some aspects, this may include the UE performing time/frequency/Doppler tracking functionalities. In some aspects, the one or more SSB805broadcast over the SFN may provide such tracking functionalities. Thus, the same SSB805broadcast over the SFN may be repeated over a transmission occasion. Two SSBs805may be transmitted in one transmission occasion with some time separation810between two transmissions, where each SSB805transmitted in the transmission occasion are the same or are different. Time separation810may be fixed (e.g., in the specification), or signaled to the UE as part of SFN for the notification zone configuration, in a system information or RRC message, and the like.

FIG. 9illustrates an example of a DRX configuration900that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, DRX configuration900may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400and/or SSB configurations500/600/700/800. Aspects of DRX configuration900may be implemented by a UE, which may be an example of the corresponding device described herein. Generally, DRX configuration900illustrates example states that a UE may be operating in while operating in a DRX mode.

Generally, a UE may be configured with a state machine and perform one or more state transitions. In some aspects, the UE may only operate in one RRC state at any given instance. For example, the UE may be operating in a RRC connected state905(which may also be referred to as an RRC active state), an RRC inactive state910, or in an RRC idle state915. In some aspects, the RRC connected state905may include the UE having an active connection to at least one cell or base station to perform active data communications. In some aspects, the RRC inactive state910may include the UE operating in an idle mode, but maintaining context information for the AS. For example, a UE-specific DRX mode may be configured for the UE by upper layers, RRC layer, etc., where the UE may perform notification zone-based updates when moving outside the notification zone area. In some aspects, the RRC idle state915may include the UE powering down certain components, functions, processes, and the like, to conserve power. In some aspects, the RRC idle state915may include the UE performing an initial access procedure to search for a serving cell to camp on.

As is discussed above, a SFN for a notification zone may be configured for the UE when the UE is operating in the RRC connected state905and/or in the RRC inactive state910. The base stations forming the notification zone of the SFN may broadcast one or more SSBs to the UE, as well as cell-specific SSBs, which the UE may use to perform a channel measurement procedure. Based on the results of the channel measurement procedure (e.g., based on the received SSBs), the UE may perform timing and/or frequency based tracking and updates.

FIG. 10illustrates an example of a process1000that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, process1000may implement aspects of wireless communication systems100/200/300/400, SSB configurations500/600/700/800and/or DRX configuration900. Aspects of process1000may be implemented by a base station1005and/or a UE1010, which may be examples of the corresponding devices described herein. In some aspects, the functions described with respect to base station1005may be performed by a network entity, e.g., such as one or more components of a core network.

At1015, UE1010may operate in an RRC inactive state of the DRX mode. In some aspects, this may include UE1010communicating with base station1005(e.g., a network entity) in order to configure the DRX mode for UE1010.

At1020, base station1005may determine that the UE1010is operating in an RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. In some aspects, this may include UE1010communicating with base station1005(e.g., a network entity) in order to configure the DRX mode for UE1010.

At1025, base station1005may configure a SFN for UE1010for a notification zone. For example, base station1005may identify one or more cells operating within a defined range of UE1010and select the cells to form the notification zone. In some aspects, this may include base station1005configuring the plurality of cells to transmit one or more SSBs to UE1010at the same time and/or on the same frequency. In some aspects, this may be based on support for SFN operations within the notification zone by a base station1005and/or UE1010. For example, UE1010may transmit (and base station1005may receive) a signal indicating that UE1010supports the SFN for the notification zone. In response, base station1005may transmit (and UE1010may receive) a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification cell has been configured for the UE. In some aspects, this may include base station1005transmitting (and UE1010receiving) a signal indicating that a network entity supports the SFN for the notification zone. In this context, the network entity may refer to base station1005as well as one or more other base stations.

At1030, base station1005may transmit (and UE1010may receive) a signal identifying the SFN for the notification zone (e.g., configuration of SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone). In some aspects, the signal may include a system information signal and/or in a RRC message. In some aspects, the signal may identify the SFN for the notification zone. In some aspects, the signal may carry or otherwise convey an indication of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN, and/or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN.

At1035, UE1010may identify the SFN for the notification zone. In some aspects, this may include UE1010receiving the signal transmitted by base station1005which carries or otherwise conveys an indication of an identifier for the SFN.

At1040, base station1005may transmit (and UE1010may receive) one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN for the notification zone. In some aspects, this may include a base station1005transmitting (and UE1010receiving) a plurality of SSBs within a transmission occasion. In some aspects, this may include base station1005transmitting (and UE1010receiving) one or more SSBs over a plurality of transmission occasions. In some aspects, this also may include base station1005(as well as other cells within the notification zone) transmitting (and UE1010receiving) one or more cell specific SSBs. In some aspects, the one or more cell specific SSBs may be on a same frequency or on a different frequency, at a same time or at a different time, use a different periodicity or the same periodicity, as the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN. In some aspects, the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SSN may include a SSS, a PSS/SSS, or a PSS/SSS/P BCH.

At1045, UE1010may perform a channel measurement procedure based on the received one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN. In some aspects, this may include UE1010updating one or more of a timing tracking function or a frequency tracking function, based at least in part on the one or more SSBs broadcast by the cells within the notification zone. In some aspects, UE1010may use a plurality of SSBs transmitted within a transmission occasion in the channel measurement procedure to update the timing tracking function. In some aspects, this may include UE1010identifying a channel performance metric based on the channel measurement procedure. For example, the channel measurement procedure may be used to identify a RSSI, RSSQ, RSRP, SNR, SINR, a throughput, an error rate, and the like.

The communications manager1115may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN. The communications manager1115may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1410described herein.

FIG. 12shows a block diagram1200of a device1205that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1205may be an example of aspects of a device1105or a UE115as described herein. The device1205may include a receiver1210, a communications manager1215, and a transmitter1240. The device1205may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver1210may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to multi-cell notification zone SFN, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device1205. The receiver1210may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1420described with reference toFIG. 14. The receiver1210may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

The communications manager1215may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1115as described herein. The communications manager1215may include a DRX state manager1220, a SFN manager1225, a SSB manager1230, and a channel measurement manager1235. The communications manager1215may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1410described herein.

The DRX state manager1220may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode.

The SFN manager1225may identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells.

The SSB manager1230may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN.

The channel measurement manager1235may perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

The transmitter1240may transmit signals generated by other components of the device1205. In some examples, the transmitter1240may be collocated with a receiver1210in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter1240may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1420described with reference toFIG. 14. The transmitter1240may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

FIG. 13shows a block diagram1300of a communications manager1305that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communications manager1305may be an example of aspects of a communications manager1115, a communications manager1215, or a communications manager1410described herein. The communications manager1305may include a DRX state manager1310, a SFN manager1315, a SSB manager1320, a channel measurement manager1325, a transmission occasion manager1330, a timing function manager1335, a SFN identifier manager1340, a SFN support manager1345, a cell-specific SSB manager1350, a SFN numerology manager1355, and a SFN periodicity manager1360. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The DRX state manager1310may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode.

The SFN manager1315may identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells.

The SSB manager1320may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN. In some examples, the SSB manager1320may decode the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone. In some examples, the SSB manager1320may decode the PSS and the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone. In some cases, a PSS associated with the SSS includes a defined identifier that is different from the identifier for the notification zone. In some cases, the one or more SSBs are received on a non-synchronized raster with respect to one or more cell-specific SSBs from the set of cells. In some cases, the one or more SSBs include one or more of a PSS, a SSS, and/or a PBCH signal. In some cases, the one or more SSBs include a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.

The channel measurement manager1325may perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN. In some cases, the channel measurement procedure is used to identify a channel performance metric indicating one or more of a RSSI, a RSRQ, a RSRP, a SNR, a SINR, a throughput, and/or an error rate.

The transmission occasion manager1330may receive a set of SSBs within a transmission occasion, where the channel measurement procedure is based on the set of SSBs received within the transmission occasion. In some examples, the transmission occasion manager1330may receive the one or more SSBs over a set of transmission occasions, where the channel measurement procedure is based on the one or more SSBs received over the set of transmission occasions.

The timing function manager1335may update one or more of a timing tracking function or a frequency tracking function, based on the one or more SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone.

The SFN identifier manager1340may receive a signal carrying configuration of SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone. In some cases, the signal includes a system information signal or a RRC message. In some cases, the signal indicates one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs.

The SFN support manager1345may transmit a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone. In some examples, the SFN support manager1345may receive, based on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone is configured for the UE. In some examples, the SFN support manager1345may receive a signal indicating that a network entity supports the SFN for the notification zone.

The cell-specific SSB manager1350may receive one or more cell-specific SSBs from one or more cells of the set of cells. In some examples, the cell-specific SSB manager1350may identify a resource mapping identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some cases, the resource mapping includes a cell-specific bitmap.

The SFN numerology manager1355may identify a number associated with the one or more SSBs based on a number associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the set of cells, on a configuration signal received by the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

The SFN periodicity manager1360may identify a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based on a periodicity associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the set of cells or on a configuration signal received by the UE.

FIG. 14shows a diagram of a system1400including a device1405that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1405may be an example of or include the components of device1105, device1205, or a UE115as described herein. The device1405may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, including a communications manager1410, an I/O controller1415, a transceiver1420, an antenna1425, memory1430, and a processor1440. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus1445).

The communications manager1410may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode, identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells, receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN, and perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

The I/O controller1415may manage input and output signals for the device1405. The I/O controller1415may also manage peripherals not integrated into the device1405. In some cases, the I/O controller1415may represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral. In some cases, the I/O controller1415may utilize an operating system such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-DOS®, MS-WINDOWS®, OS/2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In other cases, the I/O controller1415may represent or interact with a modem, a keyboard, a mouse, a touchscreen, or a similar device. In some cases, the I/O controller1415may be implemented as part of a processor. In some cases, a user may interact with the device1405via the I/O controller1415or via hardware components controlled by the I/O controller1415.

In some cases, the wireless device may include a single antenna1425. However, in some cases the device may have more than one antenna1425, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions.

The code1435may include instructions to implement aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions to support wireless communications. The code1435may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as system memory or other type of memory. In some cases, the code1435may not be directly executable by the processor1440but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein.

FIG. 15shows a block diagram1500of a device1505that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1505may be an example of aspects of a base station105as described herein. The device1505may include a receiver1510, a communications manager1515, and a transmitter1520. The device1505may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver1510may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to multi-cell notification zone SFN, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device1505. The receiver1510may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1820described with reference toFIG. 18. The receiver1510may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

The communications manager1515may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone. The communications manager1515may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1810described herein.

The transmitter1520may transmit signals generated by other components of the device1505. In some examples, the transmitter1520may be collocated with a receiver1510in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter1520may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1820described with reference toFIG. 18. The transmitter1520may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

FIG. 16shows a block diagram1600of a device1605that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1605may be an example of aspects of a device1505or a base station105as described herein. The device1605may include a receiver1610, a communications manager1615, and a transmitter1635. The device1605may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver1610may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to multi-cell notification zone SFN, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device1605. The receiver1610may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1820described with reference toFIG. 18. The receiver1610may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

The communications manager1615may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1515as described herein. The communications manager1615may include a cell-specific SSB manager1620, a SFN manager1625, and a SSB manager1630. The communications manager1615may be an example of aspects of the communications manager1810described herein.

The cell-specific SSB manager1620may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE.

The SFN manager1625may determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE.

The SSB manager1630may transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

The transmitter1635may transmit signals generated by other components of the device1605. In some examples, the transmitter1635may be collocated with a receiver1610in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter1635may be an example of aspects of the transceiver1820described with reference toFIG. 18. The transmitter1635may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

FIG. 17shows a block diagram1700of a communications manager1705that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communications manager1705may be an example of aspects of a communications manager1515, a communications manager1615, or a communications manager1810described herein. The communications manager1705may include a cell-specific SSB manager1710, a SFN manager1715, a SSB manager1720, a transmission occasion manager1725, a SFN identifier manager1730, a SFN support manager1735, and a DRX state manager1740. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The cell-specific SSB manager1710may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE. In some examples, the cell-specific SSB manager1710may transmit a resource mapping to the UE identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some examples, the cell-specific SSB manager1710may where the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that do not overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some cases, the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that at least partially overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

The SFN manager1715may determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE.

The SSB manager1720may transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may encode the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may configure a PSS associated with the SSS to indicate a defined identifier that is different from the identifier for the notification zone. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may encode the PSS and the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may transmit the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a same waveform as is used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may transmit the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a different waveform as is used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some examples, the SSB manager1720may identify a number associated with the one or more SSBs based on a number associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs, on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

In some examples, the SSB manager1720may identify a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based on a periodicity associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs or on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE. In some cases, the one or more SSBs are transmitted on a non-synchronized raster with respect to the one or more cell-specific SSBs. In some cases, the one or more SSBs include one or more of a PSS, a SSS, and/or a PBCH signal. In some cases, the one or more SSBs include a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.

The transmission occasion manager1725may transmit, over the SFN, a set of SSBs within a transmission occasion. In some examples, the transmission occasion manager1725may transmit, over the SFN, one or more SSBs over a set of transmission occasions.

The SFN identifier manager1730may transmit a signal to the UE identifying the SFN for the notification zone. In some cases, the signal indicates one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs.

The SFN support manager1735may receive a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone. In some examples, the SFN support manager1735may transmit, based on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone is configured for the UE. In some examples, the SFN support manager1735may transmit a second signal indicating support for the SFN for the notification zone.

The DRX state manager1740may determine that the UE is operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. In some examples, the DRX state manager1740may configure, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, the SFN for the UE for the notification zone, the notification zone including a set of cells.

FIG. 18shows a diagram of a system1800including a device1805that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1805may be an example of or include the components of device1505, device1605, or a base station105as described herein. The device1805may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, including a communications manager1810, a network communications manager1815, a transceiver1820, an antenna1825, memory1830, a processor1840, and an inter-station communications manager1845. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus1850).

The communications manager1810may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE, determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE, and transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

In some cases, the wireless device may include a single antenna1825. However, in some cases the device may have more than one antenna1825, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions.

The memory1830may include RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof. The memory1830may store computer-readable code1835including instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor1840) cause the device to perform various functions described herein. In some cases, the memory1830may contain, among other things, a BIOS which may control basic hardware or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

The processor1840may 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 cases, the processor1840may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some cases, a memory controller may be integrated into processor1840. The processor1840may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory1830) to cause the device #{device} to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting multi-cell notification zone SFN).

The code1835may include instructions to implement aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions to support wireless communications. The code1835may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as system memory or other type of memory. In some cases, the code1835may not be directly executable by the processor1840but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein.

FIG. 19shows a flowchart illustrating a method1900that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1900may be implemented by a UE115or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1900may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14. In some examples, a UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a UE may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1905, the UE may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. The operations of1905may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1905may be performed by a DRX state manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At1910, the UE may identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells. The operations of1910may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1910may be performed by a SFN manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At1915, the UE may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN. The operations of1915may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1915may be performed by a SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At1920, the UE may perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN. The operations of1920may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1920may be performed by a channel measurement manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

FIG. 20shows a flowchart illustrating a method2000that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method2000may be implemented by a UE115or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method2000may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14. In some examples, a UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a UE may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At2005, the UE may operate in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode. The operations of2005may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2005may be performed by a DRX state manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At2010, the UE may identify, based on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone including a set of cells. The operations of2010may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2010may be performed by a SFN manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At2015, the UE may receive one or more SSBs broadcast by the set of cells over the SFN. The operations of2015may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2015may be performed by a SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At2020, the UE may perform a channel measurement procedure based on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN. The operations of2020may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2020may be performed by a channel measurement manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

At2025, the UE may receive a set of SSBs within a transmission occasion, where the channel measurement procedure is based on the set of SSBs received within the transmission occasion. The operations of2025may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2025may be performed by a transmission occasion manager as described with reference toFIGS. 11 through 14.

FIG. 21shows a flowchart illustrating a method2100that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method2100may be implemented by a base station105or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method2100may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18. In some examples, a base station may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a base station may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At2105, the base station may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE. The operations of2105may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2105may be performed by a cell-specific SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

At2110, the base station may determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE. The operations of2110may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2110may be performed by a SFN manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

At2115, the base station may transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone. The operations of2115may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2115may be performed by a SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

FIG. 22shows a flowchart illustrating a method2200that supports multi-cell notification zone SFN in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method2200may be implemented by a base station105or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method2200may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18. In some examples, a base station may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a base station may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At2205, the base station may transmit one or more cell-specific SSBs to a UE. The operations of2205may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2205may be performed by a cell-specific SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

At2210, the base station may determine that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE. The operations of2210may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2210may be performed by a SFN manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

At2215, the base station may transmit one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone. The operations of2215may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2215may be performed by a SSB manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

At2220, the base station may transmit, over the SFN, one or more SSBs over a set of transmission occasions. The operations of2220may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of2220may be performed by a transmission occasion manager as described with reference toFIGS. 15 through 18.

Aspects of the following examples may be combined with any of the previous embodiments or aspects described herein. Thus, example 1 is a method for wireless communication at a UE, including: operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode; identifying, based at least in part on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, a SFN for a notification zone that is configured for the UE, the notification zone comprising a plurality of cells; receiving one or more SSBs broadcast by the plurality of cells over the SFN; and performing a channel measurement procedure based at least in part on the one or more SSBs received over the SFN.

In example 2, the method of example 1 may include receiving a plurality of SSBs within a transmission occasion, wherein the channel measurement procedure is based at least in part on the plurality of SSBs received within the transmission occasion.

In example 3, the method of examples 1-2 may include receiving the one or more SSBs over a plurality of transmission occasions, wherein the channel measurement procedure is based at least in part on the one or more SSBs received over the plurality of transmission occasions.

In example 4, the method of examples 1-3 may include updating one or more of a timing tracking function or a frequency tracking function, based at least in part on the one or more SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone.

In example 5, the method of examples 1-4 may include receiving a carrying configuration of SSBs broadcast by the cells in the notification zone.

In example 6, the method of examples 1-5 may include the signal comprising a system information signal or a RRC message.

In example 7, the method of examples 1-6 may include the signal indicating one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs.

In example 8, the method of examples 1-7 may include transmitting a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 9, the method of examples 1-8 may include receiving, based at least in part on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone is configured for the UE.

In example 10, the method of examples 1-9 may include receiving a signal indicating that a network entity supports the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 11, the method of examples 1-10 may include receiving one or more cell-specific SSBs from one or more cells of the plurality of cells.

In example 12, the method of examples 1-11 may include identifying a resource mapping identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 13, the method of examples 1-12 may include the resource mapping comprises a cell-specific bitmap.

In example 14, the method of examples 1-13 may include the one or more SSBs comprise a SSS, further comprising: decoding the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone.

In example 15, the method of examples 1-14 may include a PSS associated with the SSS comprises a defined identifier that is different from the identifier for the notification zone.

In example 16, the method of examples 1-15 may include the one or more SSBs comprise a PSS and a SSS, further comprising: decoding the PSS and the SSS to determine an identifier for the notification zone.

In example 17, the method of examples 1-16 may include the one or more SSBs are received on a non-synchronized raster with respect to one or more cell-specific SSBs from the plurality of cells.

In example 18, the method of examples 1-17 may include identifying a number associated with the one or more SSBs based at least in part on a number associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the plurality of cells, on a configuration signal received by the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

In example 19, the method of examples 1-18 may include identifying a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based at least in part on a periodicity associated with one or more cell-specific SSBs for the plurality of cells or on a configuration signal received by the UE.

In example 20, the method of examples 1-19 may include the one or more SSBs comprise one or more of a PSS, a SSS, or a PBCH signal.

In example 21, the method of examples 1-20 may include the channel measurement procedure is used to identify a channel performance metric indicating one or more of a RSSI, a RSRQ, a RSRP, a SNR, a SINR, a throughput, or an error rate.

In example 22, the method of examples 1-21 may include the one or more SSBs comprising a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.

Example 23 is a method for wireless communication at a base station, including: transmitting one or more cell-specific SSBs to a user UE; determining that the base station is a part of a SFN for a notification zone configured for the UE; and transmitting one or more SSBS to the UE over the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 24, the method of example 23 may include transmitting, over the SFN, a plurality of SSBs within a transmission occasion.

In example 25, the method of examples 23-24 may include transmitting, over the SFN, one or more SSBs over a plurality of transmission occasions.

In example 26, the method of examples 23-25 may include transmitting a signal to the UE identifying the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 27, the method of examples 23-26 may include the signal indicating one or more of a frequency parameter for the SFN, a time parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, a periodicity parameter for transmission of the one or more SSBs, or a numerology parameter for the one or more SSBs.

In example 28, the method of examples 23-27 may include receiving a first signal indicating that the UE supports the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 29, the method of examples 23-28 may include transmitting, based at least in part on the first signal, a second signal indicating that the SFN for the notification zone is configured for the UE.

In example 30, the method of examples 23-29 may include transmitting a second signal indicating support for the SFN for the notification zone.

In example 31, the method of examples 23-30 may include transmitting a resource mapping to the UE identifying resources for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN and resources for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 32, the method of examples 23-31 may include the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that at least partially overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 33, the method of examples 23-32 may include wherein the resource mapping identifies resource for the one or more SSBs broadcast over the SFN that do not overlap with the resource for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 34, the method of examples 23-33 may include the one or more SSBs comprise a SSS, further comprising: encoding the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone.

In example 35, the method of examples 23-34 may include configuring a PSS associated with the SSS to indicate a defined identifier that is different from the identifier for the notification zone.

In example 36, the method of examples 23-35 may include the one or more SSBs comprising a SSS and a PSS, further comprising: encoding the PSS and the SSS to convey an indication of an identifier for the notification zone.

In example 37, the method of examples 23-36 may include transmitting the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a same waveform as is used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 38, the method of examples 23-37 may include transmitting the one or more SSBs broadcast over the network using a different waveform as is used for the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 39, the method of examples 23-38 may include the one or more SSBs are transmitted on a non-synchronized raster with respect to the one or more cell-specific SSBs.

In example 40, the method of examples 23-39 may include identifying a number associated with the one or more SSBs based at least in part on a number associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs, on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE, or on a number associated with a notification zone SFN paging occasion.

In example 41, the method of examples 23-40 may include identifying a periodicity associated with the one or more SSBs based at least in part on a periodicity associated with the one or more cell-specific SSBs or on a configuration signal transmitted to the UE.

In example 42, the method of examples 23-41 may include the one or more SSBs comprise one or more of a PSS, a SSS, or a PBCH signal.

In example 43, the method of examples 23-42 may include determining that the UE is operating in a RRC inactive state of a DRX mode; and configuring, based at least in part on the UE operating in the RRC inactive state, the SFN for the UE for the notification zone, the notification zone comprising a plurality of cells.

In example 44, the method of examples 23-43 may include the one or more SSBs comprising a PBCH signal indicating notification zone specific configuration information.