TPC command indication for multiple closed loops

According to certain embodiments, a method is performed by a wireless device configured with multiple power control closed loops for a serving cell. The method comprises receiving a transmit power control (TPC) command in a downlink control message that comprises a plurality of TPC commands. The method comprises determining a particular power control closed loop of the plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied. The particular power control closed loop is determined using the downlink control message. The method further comprises updating the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates, in general, to wireless communications and, more particularly, to transmit power control command indication for multiple closed loops.

BACKGROUND

Note that although terminology from 3rdGeneration Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE) has been used in this disclosure to exemplify the concepts described herein, this should not be seen as limiting the scope of the disclosure to only the aforementioned system. Other wireless systems, especially 5G/NR, WCDMA, WiMax, UMB and GSM, may also benefit from the ideas covered within this disclosure.

1.1 Power Control

Setting output power levels of transmitters (e.g., base stations in downlink (DL) and mobile stations in uplink (UL)) in mobile systems is commonly referred to as power control (PC). Objectives of PC include improved capacity, coverage, improved system robustness, and reduced power consumption.

In LTE, PC mechanisms can be categorized into the groups: (i) open-loop; (ii) closed-loop; and (iii) combined open- and closed-loop. These differ in what input is used to determine the transmit power. In the open-loop case, the transmitter measures some signal sent from the receiver, and sets its output power based on this. In the closed-loop case, the receiver measures the signal from the transmitter, and based on this sends a Transmit Power Control (TPC) command to the transmitter, which then sets its transmit power accordingly. In a combined open- and closed-loop scheme, both inputs are used to set the transmit power.

In systems with multiple channels between the terminals and the base stations (e.g., traffic and control channels), different power control principles may be applied to the different channels. Using different principles yields more freedom in adapting the power control principle to the needs of individual channels. The drawback is increased complexity of maintaining several principles.

1.2 PC Loops

In, for instance, LTE release 10, the user equipment (UE) is initially performing PC for the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) using Equation 1 below.
PPRACH=min{PCMAX,c(i)PREAMBLE_RECEIVED_TARGET_POWER+PLc}  (1)
After a connection is established between the UE and the eNodeB, the UE can be configured for performing UL PC also on the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH), Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) and Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) transmission. Setting the UE transmit power for a PUCCH transmission is done from:
PPUCCH=min{PCMAX,c,P0,PUCCH+PLc+∇Format+g(i)}  (2)
Here PPUCCHis the transmit power to use in a given subframe and PLcis the pathloss estimated by the UE. For the Physical Uplink Shared Channel, PUSCH, one instead uses Equation 3 below:
PPUSCH,c=min{PCMAX,c−PPUCCH,P0,PUSCH+αPLc+10 log10M+∇MCS+f(i)}  (3)
where c denotes the serving cell and PPUSCH,cis the transmit power to use in a given subframe. For SRS, one defines
PSRS,c(i)=min{PCMAX,c(i),PSRS_OFFSET,c(m)+10 log10(MSRS,c)+PO_PUSCH,c(j)+αc(j)·PLc+fc(i)}  (4)
Note that PLcis a part of setting the power level for the UE transmission, which corresponds to the open-loop part of power control. It is clear from this that the pathloss estimation conducted by the UE plays an important role of the PC. The pathloss must in turn be estimated from a DL transmission and is typically done by measuring on a reference signal.
1.3 Closed-Loop PC

In the above PC formulas, there were two terms f(i) and g(i) defined that will correspond to the closed-loop part of the power control. These terms are controlled by signaling from the gNB using TPC (Transmission Power Control) command (over Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) or Downlink Control Information (DCI)). By using this, the gNB will be able to impact the UE output power, which is useful in order to, for example: combat estimation errors impacting the UL PC; get rid of biases; and adapt the UE output power to the current interference level at the gNB. If the interference is high, it may be motivated to increase the UE output power.

There are different ways to configure the operation of f(i). In can be operating in “accumulated mode” or “absolute mode.” In the case that accumulation is enabled, for instance based on the parameter Accumulation-enabled provided by higher layers, f(i) is given from fc(i))=fc(i−1)+δPUSCH,c(i−KPUSCH), where δPUSCH,cis a correction value, also referred to as a TPC command, and can take on values according to the tables below (see 3GPP Technical Specification 36.213 v.10.13.0 more for details on this).

TABLE 5.1.1.1-3Mapping of TPC Command Field in DCI format3A to accumulated δPUSCH, cvalues.TPC CommandAccumulatedField inδPUSCH, cDCI format 3A[dB]0−111
Furthermore, the UE shall reset accumulation: for serving cell c, when PO_UE_PUSCH,cvalue is changed by higher layers; and for the primary cell, when the UE receives random access response message.

The functionality of g(i) is similar and defined from

g⁡(i)=g⁡(i-1)+∑m=0M-1⁢δP⁢U⁢C⁢C⁢H⁡(i-km),
where g(i) is the current PUCCH power control adjustment state, and where g(0) is the first value after reset. The UE shall reset accumulation: when PO_UE_PUCCHvalue is changed by higher layers; and when the UE receives a random access response message. δPUCCHis given by the tables below.

TABLE 5.1.2.1-1Mapping of TPC Command Field in DCI format1A/1B/1D/1/2A/2B/2C/2/3 to δPUCCHvalues.TPC CommandField inDCI formatδPUCCH1A/1B/1D/1/2A/2B/2C/2/3[dB]0−1102133

TABLE 5.1.2.1-2Mapping of TPC Command Field inDCI format 3A to δPUCCHvalues.TPC CommandField inδPUCCHDCI format 3A[dB]0−111
1.3.1 Individual TPC Commands in UL Grant

A closed-loop PC adjustment, usually referred to as a TPC (transmit power control) command, can be sent to the UE as part of an UL grant scheduling a PUSCH transmission (e.g., using DCI format 0/4 in LTE) or a DL assignment scheduling PDSCH (in which case the TPC command applies to setting the transmit power of PUCCH corresponding to the PDSCH scheduled by DL assignment), for example using DCI (1A,1,2,2A, etc. in LTE).

1.3.2 TPC Commands Sent for a Group of UEs

TPC commands can also be sent to a group of UEs using one PDCCH addressed to the group. This can be done by assigning different bit field locations in the DCI of a PDCCH message to different UEs. For example, locations 1,2 for a 2-bit TPC command to UE1; locations 3,4 for a 2-bit TPC command to UE2; and so on. For N UEs, the DCI will have at least 2N bits. A Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) that is scrambled by a Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) is also added to the DCI. Different groups of UEs can be assigned different RNTIs. For example, in LTE such commands are sent for adjusting PUSCH power using DCI format 3/3A and different groups of UEs are assigned different TPC-PUSCH-RNTIs. Similarly, for PUCCH power control different groups of UEs are assigned different TPC-PUCCH-RNTIs. Similarly, for SRS group-based TPC commands are sent using DCI 3B in LTE.

1.3.2.1 DCI Format 3 in LTE

DCI format 3 is used for the transmission of TPC commands for PUCCH and PUSCH with 2-bit power adjustments. The following information is transmitted by means of the DCI format 3: TPC command number 1, TPC command number 2, . . . , TPC command number N, where

N=⌊Lformat⁢⁢02⌋,
and where Lformat 0is equal to the payload size of format 0 before CRC attachment when format 0 is mapped onto the common search space, including any padding bits appended to format 0. The parameter tpc-Index or tpc-Index-PUCCH-SCell-r13 provided by higher layers determines the index to the TPC command for a given UE.

⌊Lformat⁢⁢02⌋<Lformat⁢⁢02,
a bit of value zero shall be appended to format 3.
1.3.2.2 DCI Format 3A in LTE

DCI format 3A is used for the transmission of TPC commands for PUCCH and PUSCH with single-bit power adjustments. The following information is transmitted by means of the DCI format 3A: TPC command number 1, TPC command number 2, . . . , TPC command number M, where M=Lformat0, and where Lformat0is equal to the payload size of format 0 before CRC attachment when format 0 is mapped onto the common search space, including any padding bits appended to format 0. The parameter tpc-Index or tpc-Index-PUCCH-SCell-r13 provided by higher layers determines the index to the TPC command for a given UE.

1.4 Beam Specific PC

It is envisioned that New Radio (NR) supports beam specific PC (although the exact details on what beam specific implies are not yet fully decided). Beam specific PC may, for instance, be a scheme that enables use cases where separate power control in multiple UE transmit (TX) and gNB receive (RX) beam pairs are maintained. Use cases include, for example:A UE transmitting to a Transmission/Reception Point (TRP) using a certain beam switches to another beam and then consequently also switches from one PC loop to another.A UE transmitting to a TRPs switches to another TRP and then consequently also switches from one PC loop to another.
It is expected that the beam specific PC will imply a set of PC loops as illustrated below for the case of PUSCH. Hence, there will exist a set of PC loops where each PC loop is connected to a beam.

TABLE 1PC loops RRC configured to the UEPC idxPC loop0PPUSCH, c01PPUSCH, c12PPUSCH, c23PPUSCH, c34PPUSCH, c45PPUSCH, c56PPUSCH, c6
The UL PC loop can in this case be written as:
PPUSCH,cq=min{PCMAX,cq−PPUCCHJ,P0,PUSCHq+αqPLcq+10 log10Mq+∇MCSq+f(i)q}  (5)
Here, the meaning of αq, P0,PUSCHqetc. is that these parameters may be configured in a beam specific manner and may thus depend on q. They may, however, also be shared such that, for instance, α0=α1= . . . =α6=α, meaning that only α needs to be configured. The index J in PPUCCHJrefers to the beam used for PUCCH transmission.

Furthermore, PLcqimplies that the path loss estimation is based on a certain reference signal defined for PC loop q. Hence, each time the reference signal corresponding to PC loop q is transmitted it may be used by the UE in order to estimate PLcq, which is typically done by performing a long term averaging as for example:
PLcq=referenceSignalPower−higher_layer_filtered_RSRP_q,(6)
where referenceSignalPower is defined by the network.

Finally, for a beam currently not used for PUSCH, hence M=0, the equation may instead be defined as:
PPUSCH,cq=min{PCMAX,cq−PPUCCHJ,P0,PUSCHq+αqPLcq+f(i)q}  (7)
1.5 RAN1 NR AdHoc #3

At the 3GPP RAN1 NR AdHoc #3 meeting (18-21 Sep. 2017), it was further agreed that the formulation of PPUSCH,cqin NR is given from the agreement below. Hence, the index q, as described above, will in NR correspond to a certain set of indexes {j,k,l} as defined by the agreement below. One way to think of this is that there will exist functions j(q), k(q) and l(q) that define {j,k,l} for a given q. Herein, however, the indexing q is used instead of writing the alternative representation {j,k,l}.

In LTE, the UE typically maintains one closed-loop PC adjustment state (i.e., f( ) for PUSCH, go for PUCCH) for each physical channel (e.g., PUSCH/PUCCH) or signal (e.g., SRS) per serving cell. In some cases, the UE may maintain different closed-loop PC adjustment states for different sets of subframes (e.g., f1( ) for 1stset of subframes configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC); f2( ) for 2ndset of subframes configured by RRC).

In NR, the UE can be configured to have N (e.g., N=2) closed loops for PUSCH for a given serving cell. Given this, when a TPC command is received by the UE (e.g., using group-based approach described in section 1.3.2 above), additional signalling/mapping methods are needed to associate the TPC command with one of the N closed loop configurations.

SUMMARY

According to one example embodiment, a method in a wireless device is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for the wireless device. The method comprises determining a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied. In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply:the method may comprise applying the received TPC command to the determined particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops;the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command;the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI;the closed loop indication bits may be explicit;the DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell;the method may comprise:detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format;determining an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH; andapplying the received TPC command to a first closed loop that corresponds to the determined identifier;the identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier;the method may comprise:detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format that does not include any resource allocation bits;using a first set of bits in the DCI of the PDCCH to determine the received TPC command based on one or more bitfield positions of the first set of bits; andusing a second set of bits in the DCI to determine a closed loop to which the received TPC command from the first set of bits should be applied.

According to another example embodiment, a wireless device is disclosed. The wireless device comprises a receiver and processing circuitry coupled to the receiver. The processing circuitry is configured to receive, via the receiver, a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for the wireless device. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied.

According to another example embodiment, a method in a network node is disclosed. The method comprises determining a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device. The method comprises transmitting, to the wireless device, the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply:the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command;the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH;the identifier may be associated with the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops;the identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier;the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI;the closed loop indication bits may be explicit;the DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states; andthe plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell.

According to another example embodiment, a network node is disclosed. The network node comprises a transmitter and processing circuitry coupled to the transmitter. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device. The processing circuitry is configured to transmit, via the transmitter to the wireless device, the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a method is disclosed for use in a wireless device configured with multiple power control closed loops for a serving cell. The method comprises receiving a TPC command in a downlink control message that comprises a plurality of TPC commands. The method comprises determining a particular power control closed loop of the plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied. The particular power control closed loop is determined using the downlink control message. The method further comprises updating the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed. The non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises a computer program that, when executed by processing circuitry of a wireless device configured with multiple power control closed loops for a serving cell, causes the wireless device to receive a transmit power control TPC command in a downlink control message that comprises a plurality of TPC commands, determine a particular power control closed loop of the plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied (the particular power control closed loop is determined using the downlink control message), and update the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a wireless device is configured with multiple power control closed loops for a serving cell. The wireless device comprises a receiver and processing circuitry coupled to the receiver. The processing circuitry is configured to receive, via the receiver, a TPC command in a downlink control message that comprises a plurality of TPC commands. The processing circuitry is further configured to determine a particular power control closed loop of the plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied (the particular power control closed loop is determined using the downlink control message) and update the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply to the method, the non-transitory computer-readable medium, and/or the wireless device described in the three preceding paragraphs:

In some embodiments, the downlink control message is a PDDCH message comprising DCI.

In some embodiments, one or more closed loop indication bits are received in the DC; and are used in determining the particular power control closed loop. In some embodiments, the one or more closed loop indication bits comprise an index value that is associated with the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, an RNTI associated with the downlink control message is used in determining the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, a DCI CRC of the downlink control message is used in determining the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of PUSCH transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of PUCCH transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of SRS transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the TPC command indicates a power control adjustment (6) value that should be applied to the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, the downlink control message does not contain bits indicating an assignment of uplink resources.

In some embodiments, the downlink control message is addressed to a group comprising the wireless device and one or more other wireless devices and the plurality of TPC commands received in the downlink control message include one or more TPC commands associated with the one or more other wireless devices in the group.

In some embodiments, in response to receiving the downlink control message comprising the plurality of TPC commands, it is determined which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. In some embodiments, the TPC command is determined using a bit field location in the DCI of the downlink control message. In some embodiments, the bit field location is indicated to the wireless device by higher layers.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of power control closed loops is associated with a respective beam of the serving cell.

In some embodiments, updating the particular power control closed loop comprises adjusting a transmission power used in transmitting a PUSCH transmission based on the power control adjustment (δ) value indicated by the particular TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a method in a network node is disclosed. The method comprises determining a TPC command for a particular one of multiple power control closed loops configured on a serving cell for a wireless device. The method further comprises transmitting a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises a computer program that, when executed by processing circuitry of a network node, causes the network node to determine a TPC command for a particular one of multiple power control closed loops configured on a serving cell for a wireless device. The computer program causes the network node to transmit a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command.

According to another example embodiment, a network node comprises a transmitter and processing circuitry coupled to the transmitter. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a TPC command for a particular one of multiple power control closed loops configured on a serving cell for a wireless device. The processing circuitry is further configured to transmit, via the transmitter, a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply to the method, the non-transitory computer-readable medium, and/or the network node described in the three preceding paragraphs:

In some embodiments, the downlink control message is a PDCCH message comprising DCI.

In some embodiments, the indication comprises one or more closed loop indication bits provided in the downlink control message. In some embodiments, the one or more closed loop indication bits comprise an index value that is associated with the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, an RNTI associated with the wireless device is used to scramble at least a portion of the downlink control message as an indication of the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, a DCI CRC of the downlink control message is used to indicate the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of PUSCH transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of PUCCH transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the multiple power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of SRS transmissions on the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the TPC command indicates a power control adjustment (δ) value that should be applied to the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, the downlink control message does not contain bits indicating an assignment of uplink resources.

In some embodiments, the downlink control message is addressed to a group comprising the wireless device and one or more other wireless devices and the plurality of TPC commands transmitted in the downlink control message include one or more TPC commands associated with the one or more other wireless devices in the group.

In some embodiments, an indication of which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device is provided to the wireless device. In some embodiments, the downlink control message includes a bitfield location that is assigned to the wireless device and the assigned bit field location includes the TPC command that should be applied by the wireless device. In some embodiments, the bit field location is indicated to the wireless device by higher layers.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of power control closed loops is associated with a respective beam of the serving cell.

In some embodiments, the TPC command indicates a power control adjustment (δ) value that the wireless device should use to adjust a transmission power of a PUSCH transmission.

In some embodiments, DCI is transmitted. The DCI comprises one or more first closed loop indication bits and one or more second closed loop indication bits. The first closed loop indication bits indicate a first power control closed loop to which one of the plurality of TPC commands applies. The second closed loop indication bits indicate a second power control closed loop to which another of the plurality of TPC commands applies. The number of first closed loop indication bits is different from the number of second closed loop indication bits.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. As one example, for a wireless device configured with multiple closed loops, certain embodiments may advantageously help the wireless device unambiguously identify the closed loop to which TPC commands received in a PDDCH should be applied, especially for the cases where PDCCH carries multiple TPC commands applicable to a group of wireless devices. As another example, certain embodiments may advantageously provide a low-overhead solution for indicating group TPC commands with different closed loops for different types of PUSCH transmissions (e.g., grant based vs. grant free, PUSCH corresponding to different beams/TRPs). As still another example, certain embodiments may advantageously provide a more flexible solution as the closed loop is explicitly indicated. Other advantages may be readily apparent to one having skill in the art. Certain embodiments may have none, some, or all of the recited advantages.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As described above, in LTE the UE typically maintains one closed-loop PC adjustment state (i.e., f( ) for PUSCH, go for PUCCH) for each physical channel (e.g., PUSCH/PUCCH) or signal (e.g., SRS) per serving cell. In some cases, the UE may maintain different closed-loop PC adjustment states for different sets of subframes (e.g., f1( ) for 1stset of subframes configured by Radio Resource Control (RRC); f2( ) for 2ndset of subframes configured by RRC). In NR, the UE can be configured to have N (e.g., N=2) closed loops for PUSCH for a given serving cell. Given this, when a TPC command is received by the UE (e.g., using group-based approach described in section 1.3.2 above), additional signalling/mapping methods are needed to associate the TPC command with one of the N closed loop configurations.

The present disclosure contemplates various embodiments that may address these and other deficiencies associated with existing approaches. In certain embodiments, when a wireless device (e.g., a UE) is configured with multiple closed loops for determining transmission power of a particular physical channel/signal in a serving cell (e.g., f1_c( ), f2_c( ), . . . fN_c( )), the closed loop applicable to a TPC command received for the physical channel/signal is determined based on the DCI CRC (i.e., an identifier used for scrambling the DCI CRC) of the PDCCH that contains the TPC command. In certain embodiments, specific DCI format structures are used that can carry TPC indication+closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH.

According to a first example embodiment, the closed loop applicable to a particular TPC command is determined based on the DCI CRC of the PDCCH carrying the TPC command. According to a second example embodiment, the closed loop applicable to a particular TPC command is determined based on explicit closed loop indication bits included in the DCI. In such a scenario, specific DCI format structures can carry TPC indication+closed loop indication for multiple UEs in one PDCCH, as described herein.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, for a wireless device configured with multiple closed loops, the various embodiments described herein may advantageously help the wireless device unambiguously identify the closed loop to which TPC commands received in a PDDCH should be applied, especially for the cases where PDCCH carries multiple TPC commands applicable to a group of wireless devices. As another example, the first example embodiment described above may advantageously provide a low-overhead solution for indicating group TPC commands with different closed loops for different types of PUSCH transmissions (e.g., grant based vs. grant free, PUSCH corresponding to different beams/TRPs). As still another example, the second example embodiment described above may advantageously provide a more flexible solution, as the closed loop is explicitly indicated. Other advantages may be readily apparent to one having skill in the art. Certain embodiments may have none, some, or all of the recited advantages.

FIG. 1is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a network100, in accordance with certain embodiments. Network100includes one or more wireless devices110and one or more network node(s)115(including network nodes115aand115bin the example embodiment ofFIG. 1). Network node115acomprises processing circuitry520, memory530, interface510/540, and antenna550. Wireless device110comprises processing circuitry420, memory430, interface410and antenna440. These components may work together in order to provide network node and/or wireless device functionality, such as providing wireless connections in network100.

For example, wireless devices110may communicate with network nodes115over a wireless interface. For example, wireless device110may transmit wireless signals125a,125bto one or more of network nodes115, and/or receive wireless signals125a,125bfrom one or more of network nodes115. Wireless signals125a,125bmay contain voice traffic, data traffic, control signals, and/or any other suitable information. In some embodiments, an area of wireless signal coverage associated with a network node115may be referred to as a cell. In some embodiments, wireless device110may have device-to-device (D2D) capability. Thus, wireless devices110may be able to receive signals from and/or transmit signals directly to another wireless device.

In certain embodiments, network nodes115may interface with a radio network controller. The radio network controller may control network nodes115and may provide certain radio resource management functions, mobility management functions, and/or other suitable functions. In certain embodiments, the functions of the radio network controller may be included in network node115. The radio network controller may interface with a core network node. In certain embodiments, the radio network controller may interface with the core network node via an interconnecting network120. Interconnecting network120may refer to any interconnecting system capable of transmitting audio, video, signals, data, messages, or any combination of the preceding. Interconnecting network120may include all or a portion of one or more Internet Protocol (IP) networks, public switched telephone networks (PSTNs), packet data networks, optical networks, public or private data networks, local area networks (LANs), wireless local area networks (WLANs), wired networks, wireless networks, metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WAN), a local, regional, or global communication or computer network such as the Internet, an enterprise intranet, or any other suitable communication links, including combinations thereof, to enable communication between devices.

In some embodiments, the core network node may manage the establishment of communication sessions and various other functionalities for wireless devices110. Wireless devices110may exchange certain signals with the core network node using the non-access stratum layer. In non-access stratum signaling, signals between wireless devices110and the core network node may be transparently passed through the RAN. In certain embodiments, network nodes115may interface with one or more network nodes over an internode interface, such as, for example, an X2 interface.

As described above, example embodiments of network100may include one or more wireless devices110, and one or more different types of network nodes115capable of communicating (directly or indirectly) with wireless devices110.

In some embodiments, the non-limiting term wireless device is used. Wireless devices110described herein can be any type of wireless device capable, configured, arranged and/or operable to communicate wirelessly with network nodes115and/or another wireless device. Communicating wirelessly may involve transmitting and/or receiving wireless signals using electromagnetic signals, radio waves, infrared signals, and/or other types of signals suitable for conveying information through air. In particular embodiments, wireless devices may be configured to transmit and/or receive information without direct human interaction. For instance, a wireless device may be designed to transmit information to a network on a predetermined schedule, when triggered by an internal or external event, or in response to requests from the network. Generally, a wireless device may represent any device capable of, configured for, arranged for, and/or operable for wireless communication, for example radio communication devices. Examples of wireless devices include, but are not limited to, UEs such as smart phones. Further examples include wireless cameras, wireless-enabled tablet computers, laptop-embedded equipment (LEE), laptop-mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, and/or wireless customer-premises equipment (CPE). Wireless device110may also be a radio communication device, target device, D2D UE, machine-type-communication (MTC) UE or UE capable of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, low-cost and/or low-complexity UE, a sensor equipped with UE, or any other suitable devices.

As one specific example, wireless device110may represent a UE configured for communication in accordance with one or more communication standards promulgated by 3GPP, such as 3GPP's GSM, UMTS, LTE, and/or 5G standards. As used herein, a “UE” may not necessarily have a “user” in the sense of a human user who owns and/or operates the relevant device. Instead, a UE may represent a device that is intended for sale to, or operation by, a human user but that may not initially be associated with a specific human user.

Wireless device110may support D2D communication, for example by implementing a 3GPP standard for sidelink communication, and may in this case be referred to as a D2D communication device.

As yet another specific example, in an Internet of Things (IOT) scenario, a wireless device may represent a machine or other device that performs monitoring and/or measurements, and transmits the results of such monitoring and/or measurements to another wireless device and/or a network node. The wireless device may in this case be a M2M device, which may in a 3GPP context be referred to as a MTC device. As one particular example, the wireless device may be a UE implementing the 3GPP narrow band internet of things (NB-IoT) standard. Particular examples of such machines or devices are sensors, metering devices such as power meters, industrial machinery, or home or personal appliances (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, personal wearables such as watches, etc.). In other scenarios, a wireless device may represent a vehicle or other equipment that is capable of monitoring and/or reporting on its operational status or other functions associated with its operation.

Wireless device110as described above may represent the endpoint of a wireless connection, in which case the device may be referred to as a wireless terminal. Furthermore, a wireless device as described above may be mobile, in which case it may also be referred to as a mobile device or a mobile terminal.

As depicted inFIG. 1, wireless device110may be any type of wireless endpoint, mobile station, mobile phone, wireless local loop phone, smartphone, UE, desktop computer, PDA, cell phone, tablet, laptop, VoIP phone or handset, which is able to wirelessly send and receive data and/or signals to and from a network node, such as network node115and/or other wireless devices. Wireless device110comprises processing circuitry420, memory430, interface410, and antenna440. The components of wireless device110are depicted as single boxes located within a single larger box, however in practice a wireless device may comprise multiple different physical components that make up a single illustrated component (e.g., memory430may comprise multiple discrete microchips, each microchip representing a portion of the total storage capacity).

Processing circuitry420may be a combination of one or more of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, software and/or encoded logic operable to provide, either alone or in combination with other wireless device110components, such as memory430, wireless device110functionality. Such functionality may include providing various wireless features discussed herein, including any of the features or benefits disclosed herein.

Memory430may be any form of volatile or non-volatile memory including, without limitation, persistent storage, solid state memory, remotely mounted memory, magnetic media, optical media, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), removable media, or any other suitable local or remote memory component. Memory430may store any suitable data, instructions, or information, including software and encoded logic, utilized by wireless device110. Memory430may be used to store any calculations made by processing circuitry420and/or any data received via interface410.

Interface410may be used in the wireless communication of signalling and/or data between wireless device110and network nodes115. For example, interface410may perform any formatting, coding, or translating that may be needed to allow wireless device110to send and receive data from network nodes115over a wireless connection. Interface410may also include a radio transmitter and/or receiver that may be coupled to or a part of antenna440. The radio may receive digital data that is to be sent out to network nodes115via a wireless connection. The radio may convert the digital data into a radio signal having the appropriate channel and bandwidth parameters. The radio signal may then be transmitted via antenna440to network nodes115.

Antenna440may be any type of antenna capable of transmitting and receiving data and/or signals wirelessly. In some embodiments, antenna440may comprise one or more omni-directional, sector or panel antennas operable to transmit/receive radio signals between, for example, 2 GHz and 66 GHz. In some embodiments, antenna440may be able to transmit/receive signals outside this range. As one example, an antenna440operating in a 5G system may support transmission/reception at lower frequencies (e.g., as low as 400 MHz). For simplicity, antenna440may be considered a part of interface410to the extent that a wireless signal is being used.

Also, in some embodiments generic terminology, “network node” is used. As used herein, “network node” refers to equipment capable, configured, arranged and/or operable to communicate directly or indirectly with a wireless device and/or with other equipment in the wireless communication network that enable and/or provide wireless access to the wireless device. Examples of network nodes include, but are not limited to, access points (APs), in particular radio access points. A network node may represent base stations (BSs), such as radio base stations. Particular examples of radio base stations include Node Bs, evolved Node Bs (eNBs), and gNBs. Base stations may be categorized based on the amount of coverage they provide (or, stated differently, their transmit power level) and may then also be referred to as femto base stations, pico base stations, micro base stations, or macro base stations. “Network node” also includes one or more (or all) parts of a distributed radio base station such as centralized digital units and/or remote radio units (RRUs), sometimes referred to as Remote Radio Heads (RRHs). Such remote radio units may or may not be integrated with an antenna as an antenna integrated radio. Parts of a distributed radio base stations may also be referred to as nodes in a distributed antenna system (DAS).

As a particular non-limiting example, a base station may be a relay node or a relay donor node controlling a relay.

Yet further examples of network nodes include multi-standard radio (MSR) radio equipment such as MSR BSs, network controllers such as radio network controllers (RNCs) or base station controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), transmission points, transmission nodes, Multi-cell/multicast Coordination Entities (MCEs), core network nodes (e.g., MSCs, MMEs, etc.), Operation and Maintenance (O&M) nodes, Operations Support System (OSS) nodes, Self-Organizing Network (SON) nodes, positioning nodes (e.g., Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (E-SMLCs)), minimization of drive tests (MDTs), or any other suitable network node. More generally, however, network nodes may represent any suitable device (or group of devices) capable, configured, arranged, and/or operable to enable and/or provide a wireless device access to the wireless communication network or to provide some service to a wireless device that has accessed the wireless communication network.

InFIG. 1, network node115acomprises processing circuitry520, memory530, interface510/540, and antenna550. These components are depicted as single boxes located within a single larger box. In practice, however, network node115amay comprise multiple different physical components that make up a single illustrated component (e.g., interface510/540may comprise terminals for coupling wires for a wired connection and a radio transceiver for a wireless connection). As another example, network node115amay be a virtual network node in which multiple different physically separate components interact to provide the functionality of network node115a(e.g., processing circuitry520may comprise three separate processors located in three separate enclosures, where each processor is responsible for a different function for a particular instance of network node115a). Similarly, network node115amay be composed of multiple physically separate components (e.g., a NodeB component and a RNC component, a BTS component and a BSC component, etc.), which may each have their own respective processor, storage, and interface components. In certain scenarios in which network node115acomprises multiple separate components (e.g., BTS and BSC components), one or more of the separate components may be shared among several network nodes. For example, a single RNC may control multiple NodeB's. In such a scenario, each unique NodeB and BSC pair, may be a separate network node. In some embodiments, network node115amay be configured to support multiple radio access technologies (RATs). In such embodiments, some components may be duplicated (e.g., separate memory530for the different RATs) and some components may be reused (e.g., the same antenna550may be shared by the RATs).

Processing circuitry520may be a combination of one or more of a microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, central processing unit, digital signal processor, application specific integrated circuit, field programmable gate array, or any other suitable computing device, resource, or combination of hardware, software and/or encoded logic operable to provide, either alone or in conjunction with other network node115acomponents, such as memory530, network node115afunctionality. For example, processing circuitry520may execute instructions stored in memory530. Such functionality may include providing various wireless features discussed herein to one or more wireless devices, such as wireless device110, including any of the features or benefits disclosed herein.

Memory530may comprise any form of volatile or non-volatile computer readable memory including, without limitation, persistent storage, solid state memory, remotely mounted memory, magnetic media, optical media, RAM, ROM, removable media, or any other suitable local or remote memory component. Memory530may store any suitable instructions, data or information, including software and encoded logic, utilized by network node115a. Memory530may be used to store any calculations made by processor520and/or any data received via interface510/540.

Network node115aalso comprises interface510/540which may be used in the wired or wireless communication of signalling and/or data between network node115a, network115b, and/or wireless device110. For example, interface510/540may perform any formatting, coding, or translating that may be needed to allow network node115ato send and receive data from network115bover a wired connection. Interface510/540may also include a radio transmitter and/or receiver that may be coupled to or a part of antenna550. The radio may receive digital data that is to be sent out to other network nodes or wireless devices via a wireless connection. The radio may convert the digital data into a radio signal having the appropriate channel and bandwidth parameters. The radio signal may then be transmitted via antenna550to the appropriate recipient (e.g., wireless device110).

Antenna550may be any type of antenna capable of transmitting and receiving data and/or signals wirelessly. In some embodiments, antenna550may comprise one or more omni-directional, sector or panel antennas operable to transmit/receive radio signals between, for example, 2 GHz and 66 GHz. In some embodiments, antenna550may be able to transmit/receive signals outside this range. As one example, an antenna550operating in a 5G system may support transmission/reception at lower frequencies (e.g., as low as 400 MHz). An omni-directional antenna may be used to transmit/receive radio signals in any direction, a sector antenna may be used to transmit/receive radio signals from devices within a particular area, and a panel antenna may be a line of sight antenna used to transmit/receive radio signals in a relatively straight line.

As used herein, the term “radio node” is used generically to refer both to wireless devices and network nodes, as each is respectively described above.

The terminology such as network node and wireless device should be considered non-limiting and does in particular not imply a certain hierarchical relation between the two; in general “network node” could be considered as device1and “wireless device” device2, and these two devices communicate with each other over some radio channel.

Example embodiments of wireless device110, network nodes115, and other network nodes (such as radio network controller or core network node) are described in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 4-8.

AlthoughFIG. 1illustrates a particular arrangement of network100, the present disclosure contemplates that the various embodiments described herein may be applied to a variety of networks having any suitable configuration. For example, network100may include any suitable number of wireless devices110and network nodes115, as well as any additional elements suitable to support communication between wireless devices or between a wireless device and another communication device (such as a landline telephone). In different embodiments, the wireless network100may comprise any number of wired or wireless networks, network nodes, base stations, controllers, wireless devices, relay stations, and/or any other components that may facilitate or participate in the communication of data and/or signals whether via wired or wireless connections.

Furthermore, although certain embodiments may be described as implemented in a LTE network, the embodiments may be implemented in any appropriate type of telecommunication system using any suitable components, and are applicable to any suitable radio access technology (RAT) or multi-RAT systems. For example, the various embodiments described herein may be applicable to LTE, LTE-Advanced, NR, 5G, UMTS, HSPA, GSM, cdma2000, WCDMA, WiMax, UMB, WiFi, another suitable RAT, or any suitable combination of one or more RATs. Thus, network100may represent any type of communication, telecommunication, data, cellular, and/or radio network or other type of system. In particular embodiments, the network100may be configured to operate according to specific standards or other types of predefined rules or procedures. Thus, particular embodiments of the wireless communication network may implement communication standards, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), and/or other suitable 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G standards; wireless local area network (WLAN) standards, such as the IEEE 802.11 standards; and/or any other appropriate wireless communication standard, such as the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMax), Bluetooth, and/or ZigBee standards.

Although certain embodiments may be described in the context of wireless transmissions in the DL, the present disclosure contemplates that the various embodiments are equally applicable in the UL.

Although the solutions described herein may be implemented in any appropriate type of system using any suitable components, particular embodiments of the described solutions may be implemented in a wireless network such as the example wireless communication network illustrated inFIG. 1. In the example embodiment ofFIG. 1, the wireless communication network provides communication and other types of services to one or more wireless devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication network includes one or more instances of network nodes that facilitate the wireless devices' access to and/or use of the services provided by the wireless communication network. The wireless communication network may further include any additional elements suitable to support communication between wireless devices or between a wireless device and another communication device, such as a landline telephone.

Some of the embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other embodiments, however, are contained within the scope of this disclosure and should not be construed as limited to only the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the concept to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description.

It is to be noted that any feature of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be applied to any other embodiment, wherever appropriate. Likewise, any advantage of any of the embodiments may apply to the other embodiments, and vice versa. Other objectives, features and advantages of the enclosed embodiments will be apparent from the following description.

As described above, the present disclosure contemplates various embodiments that may address one or more deficiencies associated with existing approaches to transmit power control. According to a first example embodiment, the closed loop applicable to a particular TPC command is determined based on the DCI CRC of the PDCCH carrying the TPC command. According to a second example embodiment, the closed loop applicable to a particular TPC command is determined based on explicit closed loop indication bits included in the DCI. In such a scenario, specific DCI format structures can carry TPC indication+closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH, as described herein.

When a wireless device (e.g., UE) is configured with N closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell c (e.g., f1_c( ), f2_c( ), . . . fN_c( )), and the UE receives a PDCCH with a DCI associated with an UL grant, the closed loop to use for setting the transmit power of the PUSCH transmission corresponding to the UL grant can be based on explicit DCI bits indicating the specific closed loop to use, or implicitly based on the beam/Quasi-Co-Location (QCL) configuration associated with the PUSCH transmission (e.g., as described in P72932—Beam Indication for UL Power Control, P72933—Unified UL and DL Beam Indication). The TPC command included in the PDCCH DCI can be used to update the state of the determined closed loop. The UE can also receive TPC commands in PDCCH DCI without an associated UL grant e.g. using a DCI format similar to LTE DCI format 3/3A. In such cases, the closed loop to which the TPC command applies can be determined using one or more of the example embodiments described in below.

In a first example embodiment, a wireless device110(e.g., a UE110) is configured with N closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell c (e.g., f1_c( ), f2_c( ), . . . fN_c( )). When UE110detects a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format (e.g., a DCI format similar to LTE DCI format 3/3A), and if the DCI CRC of the PDCCH is scrambled by a first identifier (e.g., TPC-PUSCH-RNTI1), UE110applies a TPC command included in the DCI to a first closed loop that corresponds to the first RNTI. When UE110detects a PDCCH corresponding to the first DCI format, and if the DCI CRC of the PDCCH is scrambled by a second identifier (e.g., TPC-PUSCH-RNTI2), UE110applies a TPC command included in the DCI to a second closed loop that corresponds to the second RNTI. In other words, UE110determines the closed loop to which a TPC command is applied based on the RNTI of the PDCCH carrying the TPC command.

For example, if a PDCCH with a DCI format containing multiple TPC commands is received in subframe i, and the DCI CRC of the PDCCH is scrambled by TPC-PUSCH-RNTI1, and if a TPC command for UE110indicates a power adjustment delta; UE110will update f1_c(i)=f1_c(i−1)+delta; If the DCI CRC of the PDCCH is scrambled by TPC-PUSCH-RNTI2, UE110will update f2c(i)=f2_c(i−1)+delta. UE110will leave the closed loops for which no TPC command is detected unchanged.

The association between RNTI and corresponding closed loop can be based on any suitable criteria. As one example, the first RNTI and the first closed loop (i.e., f1_c( )) may be associated with a first type (e.g., grant-based) of PUSCH transmissions and the second RNTI and second closed loop (i.e., f2_c( )) may be associated with a second type (e.g., grant-free) of PUSCH transmissions. In such a scenario, for the first type of PUSCH transmissions, the first closed loop f1_c( ) is updated when the TPC command is received in PDCCH with the first DCI format (e.g., the first DCI format that does not include any UL resource allocation bits for allocation RBs for PUSCH transmission). The first closed loop f1_c( ) is also updated when the TPC command is received in PDCCH with a second DCI format where the second DCI format includes bits indicating a TPC command and also UL resource allocation. For the second type of PUSCH transmissions, the second closed loop f2_c( ) is updated when the TPC command is received in PDCCH with the first DCI format. However, when a TPC command with second DCI format that includes UL resource allocation bits is received, f2_c( ) is not updated.

As another example, the first RNTI and the first closed loop (i.e., f1_c( )) may be associated with a PUSCH transmission corresponding to a first beam/TRP and the second RNTI and second closed loop (i.e., f2_c( )) may be associated with PUSCH transmissions corresponding to a second TRP/beam.

In certain embodiments, there will also exist a set of identifiers (e.g., TPC-PUSCH-RNTI_SET1, etc.), with the implication that UE110would apply the TPC command included in the DCI to multiple closed loops for a given UE. TPC-PUSCH-RNTI_SET1 may, for instance, imply that the TPC included in the DCI is applied to both the closed loops corresponding to TPC-PUSCH-RNTI1 and TPC-PUSCH-RNTI2. This would thus enable a way to affect multiple closed loops with one TPC.

In a second example embodiment, a wireless device110(e.g., a UE110) is configured with N closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell c (e.g., f1_c( ), f2_c( ), . . . fN_c( )). When UE110detects a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format which does not include any resource allocation bits, UE110uses a first set of bits in the DCI of the PDCCH to determine its TPC command based on the bitfield position(s) of the first set of bits, and a second set of bits in the DCI to determine a closed loop to which the TPC command from the first set of bits should be applied. UE110adjusts the closed loop based on the determined TPC command. The DCI CRC of the PDCCH can be scrambled with an identifier applicable to a group of UEs (e.g. similar to TPC-PUSCH RNTI in LTE).

For example, if N=2 closed loops are utilized and if a PDCCH with a DCI format containing multiple TPC commands is received in subframe i, and bits at bitfield positions x, x+1 (i.e., first set of bits) indicate a TPC command corresponding to power adjustment delta, and a bit at bitfield position x+2 (i.e., second set of bits) indicates closed loop f1_c( ), UE110updates f1_c(i)=f1_c(i−1)+delta. If the bit at bitfield position x+2 indicates closed loop f2_c( ), UE110updates f2_c(i)=f2_c(i−1)+delta.

Table 2 below shows one possible example of DCI format containing TPC bits and explicit indication of closed loop for multiple UEs that can be transmitted by a gNB and received by the UE. Other alternatives are also possible. For example, the TPC commands can be 2 bits and closed loop indication can also be 2 bits (corresponding to N=4 closed loops configured to each UE). In another example, the number of bits used for closed loop indication can be different for different UEs (i.e., UE1 has 2 bits for TPC followed by 1 bit for f( ) indication; UE2 has 2 bits for TPC followed by 2 bits for f( ) indication, . . . UEN has 2 bits for TPC followed by 1 bit for f( ) indication). For this alternative, higher layers explicitly indicate a starting bitfield position using which the UE determines the TPC bits, and f( ) indication bits applicable to it. In another example, while TPC bits in PDCCH DCI are individually signalled for each UE, the f( ) indication in the PDCCH DCI can be common to all the UEs for which the received PDCCH is applicable.

In another embodiment, the indication may also indicate that the TPC should be applied to multiple closed loops, for instance apply the TPC to both f1_c( ) and f2_c( ) in case of N=2 closed loops.

While the above embodiments discuss closed loop indication for PUSCH, the described methods and signalling can also be applied for PUCCH/SRS closed loop indication (e.g. g(is used in place of f( ), and TPC commands for PUCCH can be in a separate DCI format).

FIG. 2is a flow diagram of a method200in a wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. Method200begins at step204, where the wireless device receives a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for the wireless device. In certain embodiments, the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states. In certain embodiments, the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell.

At step208, the wireless device determines a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied. In certain embodiments, the method may comprise applying the received TPC command to the determined particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops.

In certain embodiments, the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command. In certain embodiments, the method may comprise: detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format; determining an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH; and applying the received TPC command to a first closed loop that corresponds to the determined identifier. In certain embodiments, the identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier.

In certain embodiments, the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI. In certain embodiments, the closed loop indication bits may be explicit. In certain embodiments, the DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH. In certain embodiments, the method may comprise: detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format that does not include any resource allocation bits; using a first set of bits in the DCI of the PDCCH to determine the received TPC command based on one or more bitfield positions of the first set of bits; and using a second set of bits in the DCI to determine a closed loop to which the received TPC command from the first set of bits should be applied.

FIG. 3is a flow diagram of a method300in a network node, in accordance with certain embodiments. Method300begins at step304, where the network node determines a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device. In certain embodiments, the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states. In certain embodiments, the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell.

At step308, the network node transmits, to the wireless device, the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In certain embodiments, the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command. In certain embodiments, the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH. The identifier may be associated with the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops. The identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier.

In certain embodiments, the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI. The closed loop indication bits may be explicit. The DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH.

FIG. 4is a block schematic of an exemplary wireless device110, in accordance with certain embodiments. Wireless device110may refer to any type of wireless device communicating with a node and/or with another wireless device in a cellular or mobile communication system. Examples of wireless device110include a mobile phone, a smart phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a portable computer (e.g., laptop, tablet), a sensor, an actuator, a modem, a machine-type-communication (MTC) device/machine-to-machine (M2M) device, laptop embedded equipment (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, a D2D capable device, or another device that can provide wireless communication. A wireless device110may also be referred to as UE, a station (STA), a device, or a terminal in some embodiments. Wireless device110includes transceiver410, processing circuitry420, and memory430. In some embodiments, transceiver410facilitates transmitting wireless signals to and receiving wireless signals from network node115(e.g., via antenna440), processing circuitry420executes instructions to provide some or all of the functionality described above as being provided by wireless device110, and memory430stores the instructions executed by processing circuitry420.

Processing circuitry420may include any suitable combination of hardware and software implemented in one or more modules to execute instructions and manipulate data to perform some or all of the described functions of wireless device110, such as the functions of wireless device110described above in relation toFIGS. 1-3. In some embodiments, processing circuitry420may include, for example, one or more computers, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more applications, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and/or other logic.

Other embodiments of wireless device110may include additional components beyond those shown inFIG. 4that may be responsible for providing certain aspects of the wireless device's functionality, including any of the functionality described above and/or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the solution described above). As just one example, wireless device110may include input devices and circuits, output devices, and one or more synchronization units or circuits, which may be part of the processing circuitry420. Input devices include mechanisms for entry of data into wireless device110. For example, input devices may include input mechanisms, such as a microphone, input elements, a display, etc. Output devices may include mechanisms for outputting data in audio, video and/or hard copy format. For example, output devices may include a speaker, a display, etc.

FIG. 5is a block schematic of an exemplary network node115, in accordance with certain embodiments. Network node115may be any type of radio network node or any network node that communicates with a UE and/or with another network node. Examples of network node115include an eNodeB, a gNB, a node B, a base station, a wireless access point (e.g., a Wi-Fi access point), a low power node, a base transceiver station (BTS), relay, donor node controlling relay, transmission points, transmission nodes, remote RF unit (RRU), remote radio head (RRH), multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node such as MSR BS, nodes in distributed antenna system (DAS), O&M, OSS, SON, positioning node (e.g., E-SMLC), MDT, or any other suitable network node. Network nodes115may be deployed throughout network100as a homogenous deployment, heterogeneous deployment, or mixed deployment. A homogeneous deployment may generally describe a deployment made up of the same (or similar) type of network nodes115and/or similar coverage and cell sizes and inter-site distances. A heterogeneous deployment may generally describe deployments using a variety of types of network nodes115having different cell sizes, transmit powers, capacities, and inter-site distances. For example, a heterogeneous deployment may include a plurality of low-power nodes placed throughout a macro-cell layout. Mixed deployments may include a mix of homogenous portions and heterogeneous portions.

Network node115may include one or more of transceiver510, processing circuitry520, memory530, and network interface540. In some embodiments, transceiver510facilitates transmitting wireless signals to and receiving wireless signals from wireless device110(e.g., via antenna550), processing circuitry520executes instructions to provide some or all of the functionality described above as being provided by a network node115, memory530stores the instructions executed by processing circuitry520, and network interface540communicates signals to backend network components, such as a gateway, switch, router, Internet, Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), core network nodes or radio network controllers130, etc.

Processing circuitry520may include any suitable combination of hardware and software implemented in one or more modules to execute instructions and manipulate data to perform some or all of the described functions of network node115, such as those described above in relation toFIGS. 1-3. In some embodiments, processing circuitry520may include, for example, one or more computers, one or more CPUs, one or more microprocessors, one or more applications, one or more ASICs, one or more FPGAs and/or other logic.

Memory530is generally operable to store instructions, such as a computer program, software, an application including one or more of logic, rules, algorithms, code, tables, etc. and/or other instructions capable of being executed by processing circuitry520. Examples of memory530include computer memory (for example, RAM or ROM), mass storage media (for example, a hard disk), removable storage media (for example, a CD or a DVD), and/or or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory computer-readable and/or computer-executable memory devices that store information.

In some embodiments, network interface540is communicatively coupled to processing circuitry520and may refer to any suitable device operable to receive input for network node115, send output from network node115, perform suitable processing of the input or output or both, communicate to other devices, or any combination of the preceding. Network interface540may include appropriate hardware (e.g., port, modem, network interface card, etc.) and software, including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities, to communicate through a network.

FIG. 6is a block schematic of an exemplary radio network controller or core network node130, in accordance with certain embodiments. Examples of network nodes can include a mobile switching center (MSC), a serving GPRS support node (SGSN), a mobility management entity (MME), a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), and so on. The radio network controller or core network node130includes processing circuitry620, memory630, and network interface640. In some embodiments, processing circuitry620executes instructions to provide some or all of the functionality described above as being provided by the network node, memory630stores the instructions executed by processing circuitry620, and network interface640communicates signals to any suitable node, such as a gateway, switch, router, Internet, Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), network nodes115, radio network controllers or core network nodes130, etc.

Processing circuitry620may include any suitable combination of hardware and software implemented in one or more modules to execute instructions and manipulate data to perform some or all of the described functions of the radio network controller or core network node130. In some embodiments, processing circuitry620may include, for example, one or more computers, one or more CPUs, one or more microprocessors, one or more applications, one or more ASICs, one or more FPGAs and/or other logic.

Memory630is generally operable to store instructions, such as a computer program, software, an application including one or more of logic, rules, algorithms, code, tables, etc. and/or other instructions capable of being executed by processing circuitry620. Examples of memory630include computer memory (for example, RAM or ROM), mass storage media (for example, a hard disk), removable storage media (for example, a CD or a DVD), and/or or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory computer-readable and/or computer-executable memory devices that store information.

In some embodiments, network interface640is communicatively coupled to processing circuitry620and may refer to any suitable device operable to receive input for the network node, send output from the network node, perform suitable processing of the input or output or both, communicate to other devices, or any combination of the preceding. Network interface640may include appropriate hardware (e.g., port, modem, network interface card, etc.) and software, including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities, to communicate through a network.

Other embodiments of the network node may include additional components beyond those shown inFIG. 6that may be responsible for providing certain aspects of the network node's functionality, including any of the functionality described above and/or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the solution described above).

FIG. 7is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. Wireless device110may include one or more modules. For example, wireless device110may include a determining module710, a communication module720, a receiving module730, an input module740, a display module750, and any other suitable modules. In some embodiments, one or more of determining module710, communication module720, receiving module730, input module740, display module750, or any other suitable module may be implemented using one or more processors, such as processing circuitry420described above in relation toFIG. 4. In certain embodiments, the functions of two or more of the various modules may be combined into a single module. Wireless device110may perform the methods for TPC command indication for multiple closed loops described above in relation toFIGS. 1-3.

Determining module710may perform the processing functions of wireless device110. For example, determining module710may determine a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied. In certain embodiments, determining module710may determine the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied based on a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command. In certain embodiments, determining module710may determine the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied based on one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI. As another example, determining module710may apply the received TPC command to the determined particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops. As still another example, determining module710may: detect a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format; determine an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH; and apply the received TPC command to a first closed loop that corresponds to the determined identifier. As yet another example, determining module710may: detect a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format that does not include any resource allocation bits; use a first set of bits in the DCI of the PDCCH to determine the received TPC command based on one or more bitfield positions of the first set of bits; and use a second set of bits in the DCI to determine a closed loop to which the received TPC command from the first set of bits should be applied.

Determining module710may include or be included in one or more processors, such as processing circuitry420described above in relation toFIG. 4. Determining module710may include analog and/or digital circuitry configured to perform any of the functions of determining module710and/or processing circuitry420described above. The functions of determining module710described above may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Communication module720may perform the transmission functions of wireless device110. Communication module720may include a transmitter and/or a transceiver, such as transceiver410described above in relation toFIG. 4. Communication module720may include circuitry configured to wirelessly transmit messages and/or signals. In particular embodiments, communication module720may receive messages and/or signals for transmission from determining module710. In certain embodiments, the functions of communication module720described above may be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Receiving module730may perform the receiving functions of wireless device110. For example, receiving module730may receive a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for wireless device110. Receiving module730may include a receiver and/or a transceiver. Receiving module730may include a receiver and/or a transceiver, such as transceiver410described above in relation toFIG. 4. Receiving module730may include circuitry configured to wirelessly receive messages and/or signals. In particular embodiments, receiving module730may communicate received messages and/or signals to determining module710. The functions of receiving module730described above may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Input module740may receive user input intended for wireless device110. For example, the input module may receive key presses, button presses, touches, swipes, audio signals, video signals, and/or any other appropriate signals. The input module may include one or more keys, buttons, levers, switches, touchscreens, microphones, and/or cameras. The input module may communicate received signals to determining module710. The functions of input module740described above may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Display module750may present signals on a display of wireless device110. Display module750may include the display and/or any appropriate circuitry and hardware configured to present signals on the display. Display module750may receive signals to present on the display from determining module710. The functions of display module750described above may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Determining module710, communication module720, receiving module730, input module740, and display module750may include any suitable configuration of hardware and/or software. Wireless device110may include additional modules beyond those shown inFIG. 7that may be responsible for providing any suitable functionality, including any of the functionality described above and/or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the various solutions described herein).

FIG. 8is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary network node115, in accordance with certain embodiments. Network node115may include one or more modules. For example, network node115may include determining module810, communication module820, receiving module830, and any other suitable modules. In some embodiments, one or more of determining module810, communication module820, receiving module830, or any other suitable module may be implemented using one or more processors, such as processing circuitry520described above in relation toFIG. 5. In certain embodiments, the functions of two or more of the various modules may be combined into a single module. Network node115may perform the methods for TPC command indication described above with respect toFIGS. 1-3.

Determining module810may perform the processing functions of network node115. For example, determining module810may determine a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device (e.g., a UE). Determining module810may include or be included in one or more processors, such as processing circuitry520described above in relation toFIG. 5. Determining module810may include analog and/or digital circuitry configured to perform any of the functions of determining module810and/or processing circuitry520described above. The functions of determining module810may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules. As one example, in certain embodiments the functions of determining module810may be performed by one or more of a local breakout function gateway module, an interaction gateway module, and a function for recommendation module.

Communication module820may perform the transmission functions of network node115. For example, communication module820may transmit, to a wireless device (e.g., a UE), the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. Communication module820may transmit messages to one or more of wireless devices110. Communication module820may include a transmitter and/or a transceiver, such as transceiver510described above in relation toFIG. 5. Communication module820may include circuitry configured to wirelessly transmit messages and/or signals. In particular embodiments, communication module820may receive messages and/or signals for transmission from determining module810or any other module. The functions of communication module820may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Receiving module830may perform the receiving functions of network node115. Receiving module830may receive any suitable information from a wireless device. Receiving module830may include a receiver and/or a transceiver, such as transceiver510described above in relation toFIG. 5. Receiving module830may include circuitry configured to wirelessly receive messages and/or signals. In particular embodiments, receiving module830may communicate received messages and/or signals to determining module810or any other suitable module. The functions of receiving module830may, in certain embodiments, be performed in one or more distinct modules.

Determining module810, communication module820, and receiving module830may include any suitable configuration of hardware and/or software. Network node115may include additional modules beyond those shown inFIG. 8that may be responsible for providing any suitable functionality, including any of the functionality described above and/or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the various solutions described herein).

Summary of Example Embodiments

According to one example embodiment, a method in a wireless device is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for the wireless device. The method comprises determining a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply:the method may comprise applying the received TPC command to the determined particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops;the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command;the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied may be determined based on one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI;the closed loop indication bits may be explicit;the DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell;the method may comprise:detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format;determining an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH; andapplying the received TPC command to a first closed loop that corresponds to the determined identifier;the identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier;the method may comprise:detecting a PDCCH corresponding to a first DCI format that does not include any resource allocation bits;using a first set of bits in the DCI of the PDCCH to determine the received TPC command based on one or more bitfield positions of the first set of bits; andusing a second set of bits in the DCI to determine a closed loop to which the received TPC command from the first set of bits should be applied.

According to another example embodiment, a wireless device is disclosed. The wireless device comprises a receiver and processing circuitry coupled to the receiver. The processing circuitry is configured to receive, via the receiver, a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for the wireless device. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the received TPC command should be applied.

According to another example embodiment, a method in a network node is disclosed. The method comprises determining a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device. The method comprises transmitting, to the wireless device, the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In certain embodiments, one or more of the following may apply:the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise a DCI CRC of a PDCCH carrying the received TPC command;the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise an identifier used to scramble the DCI CRC of the PDCCH;the identifier may be associated with the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops;the identifier may comprise a radio network temporary identifier;the indication of the particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command may comprise one or more closed loop indication bits included in DCI;the closed loop indication bits may be explicit;the DCI may comprise one or more of a TPC indication and a closed loop indication for multiple wireless devices in one PDCCH;the plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loop power control adjustment states; andthe plurality of closed loops may comprise a plurality of closed loops for transmit power control for PUSCH transmissions on a first serving cell.

According to another example embodiment, a network node is disclosed. The network node comprises a transmitter and processing circuitry coupled to the transmitter. The processing circuitry is configured to determine a TPC command for one of a plurality of closed loops configured for a wireless device. The processing circuitry is configured to transmit, via the transmitter to the wireless device, the determined TPC command, the transmission providing an indication of a particular closed loop of the plurality of closed loops to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command.

FIG. 9illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the method ofFIG. 9may be performed by a wireless device110(described above) that has been configured with multiple power control closed loops for a serving cell. Each of the plurality of power control closed loops may be associated with a respective beam of the serving cell. In general, the multiple power control closed loops may be used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of uplink transmissions on the serving cell, such as PUSCH, PUCCH, and/or SRS transmissions on the serving cell.

At step902, the method receives a downlink control message. The downlink control message comprises a plurality of TPC commands. For example, in some embodiments, the downlink control message may comprise TPC commands for multiple of the power control closed loops that have been configured for the wireless device. In some embodiments, the downlink control message may be addressed to a group comprising the wireless device and one or more other wireless devices, and the plurality of TPC commands received in the downlink control message may include at least one TPC command associated with the wireless device and one or more TPC commands associated with the one or more other wireless devices in the group. In certain embodiments, the downlink control message is a PDCCH message (i.e., a message received via the PDCCH). In some embodiments, the downlink control message contains DCI. In some embodiments, the downlink control message that comprises a plurality of TPC commands does not contain bits indicating an assignment of uplink resources.

At step904, in response to receiving the downlink control message comprising the plurality of TPC commands, the method may determine which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. In some embodiments, the TPC command is determined using a bit field location in the DCI of the downlink control message. The bit field location may be indicated to the wireless device by higher layers.

At step906, the method determines a particular power control closed loop of the plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command received in step902(e.g., the TPC command determined in step904) should be applied. The particular power control closed loop is determined using the downlink control message.FIGS. 10-12provide examples of methods for determining the particular power control closed loop using the downlink control message.

At step908, the method comprises updating the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command. For example, in certain embodiments, the TPC command indicates a power control adjustment (δ) value that should be applied to the particular power control closed loop. Updating the particular power control closed loop may comprise adjusting a transmission power used in transmitting an uplink transmission (such as a PUSCH, PUCCH, or SRS transmission on the serving cell) based on the power control adjustment (δ) value indicated by the TPC command.

FIG. 10illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1002is analogous to step902ofFIG. 9in which a method receives a TPC command in a downlink control message and the downlink control message comprises a plurality of TPC commands. At step1004, the method receives one or more closed loop indication bits in DCI. The one or more closed loop indication bits indicate the particular power control closed loop to which the TPC command applies. For example, the one or more closed loop indication bits may comprise an index value that is associated with a particular power control closed loop. In certain embodiments, the DCI carrying the closed loop indication bits may be received as part of the downlink control message of step1002. Step1006is analogous to step904ofFIG. 9in which the method may determine which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. Step1008is analogous to step906ofFIG. 9in which the method determines a particular power control closed loop of a plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied, wherein step1008provides an example in which the particular power control closed loop is determined using the closed loop indication bits received in step1004. Step1010is analogous to step908ofFIG. 9in which the method updates the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

FIG. 11illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1102is analogous to step902ofFIG. 9in which a method receives a TPC command in a downlink control message and the downlink control message comprises a plurality of TPC commands. At step1104, the method determines an RNTI associated with the downlink control message. For example, the RNTI that a network node uses to scramble a portion of the downlink control message may indicate the particular power control closed loop to which the TPC command applies. Step1106is analogous to step904ofFIG. 9in which the method may determine which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. Step1108is analogous to step906ofFIG. 9in which the method determines a particular power control closed loop of a plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied, wherein step1108provides an example in which the particular power control closed loop is determined using the RNTI determined in step1004. Step1110is analogous to step908ofFIG. 9in which the method updates the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

FIG. 12illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a wireless device, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1202is analogous to step902ofFIG. 9in which a method receives a TPC command in a downlink control message and the downlink control message comprises a plurality of TPC commands. In the example shown inFIG. 12, the downlink control message comprises a DCI CRC. Step1104is analogous to step904ofFIG. 9in which the method may determine which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. Step1108is analogous to step906ofFIG. 9in which the method determines a particular power control closed loop of a plurality of power control closed loops to which the TPC command should be applied, wherein step1208provides an example in which the particular power control closed loop is determined using the DCI CRC received in step1202. Step1110is analogous to step908ofFIG. 9in which the method updates the particular power control closed loop using the TPC command.

FIG. 13illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a network node, such as network node115, in accordance with certain embodiments. The method may be used to provide power control for a wireless device configured with multiple power control closed loops on a serving cell of the network node. Each of the plurality of power control closed loops may be associated with a respective beam of the serving cell. The power control closed loops are used by the wireless device for adjusting transmission powers of uplink transmissions on the serving cell, such as PUSCH, PUCCH, and/or SRS transmissions on the serving cell.

At step1302, the method determines a TPC command for a particular one of the multiple power control closed loops configured on the serving cell for the wireless device. In some embodiments, the TPC command indicates a power control adjustment (δ) value that should be applied to the particular power control closed loop. For example, the TPC command may indicate a power control adjustment (δ) value that the wireless device should use to adjust a transmission power of an uplink transmission (such as a PUSCH, PUCCH, or SRS transmission) to the serving cell.

At step1304, the method transmits a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined in step1302for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. Examples of this indication are discussed below with respect toFIGS. 14-16. In certain embodiments, the downlink control message is a PDCCH message (e.g., a message transmitted via a PDCCH) containing DCI. In certain embodiments, the downlink control message does not contain bits indicating an assignment of uplink resources.

In certain embodiments, the downlink control message transmitted in step1304is addressed to a group comprising the wireless device and one or more other wireless devices, and the plurality of TPC commands transmitted in the downlink control message include at least one TPC command associated with the wireless device and one or more TPC commands associated with the one or more other wireless devices in the group.

In certain embodiments, the method may indicate which of the plurality of TPC commands is to be applied by the wireless device. For example, the downlink control message transmitted in step1304may include a bitfield location that is assigned to the wireless device, and the assigned bit field location includes the TPC command that should be applied by the wireless device. Higher layer signaling may be used to indicate which bit field location has been assigned to the wireless device.

FIG. 14illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a network node, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1402is analogous to step1302ofFIG. 13in which a method determines a TPC command for a particular one of the multiple power control closed loops configured on the serving cell for the wireless device. Step1404is analogous to step1304ofFIG. 13in which the method transmits a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined in step1402for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In the example ofFIG. 14, the indication of the particular power control closed loop comprises one or more closed loop indication bits provided in the downlink control message. In certain embodiments, the one or more closed loop indication bits comprise an index value that is associated with the particular power control closed loop.

In some embodiments, the network node may transmit closed loop indication bits for multiple power control closed loops. For example, the network node may transmit DCI comprising one or more first closed loop indication bits and one or more second closed loop indication bits. The first closed loop indication bits indicate a first power control closed loop to which one of the plurality of TPC commands applies. The second closed loop indication bits indicate a second power control closed loop to which another of the plurality of TPC commands applies. In certain embodiments, the number of first closed loop indication bits is different from the number of second closed loop indication bits.

FIG. 15illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a network node, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1502is analogous to step1302ofFIG. 13in which a method determines a TPC command for a particular one of the multiple power control closed loops configured on the serving cell for the wireless device. Step1504is analogous to step1304ofFIG. 13in which the method transmits a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined in step1502for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In the example ofFIG. 15, the method uses an RNTI associated with the wireless device to scramble at least a portion of the downlink control message as an indication of the particular power control closed loop.

FIG. 16illustrates an example of a method that may be performed by a network node, in accordance with certain embodiments. Step1602is analogous to step1302ofFIG. 13in which a method determines a TPC command for a particular one of the multiple power control closed loops configured on the serving cell for the wireless device. Step1604is analogous to step1304ofFIG. 13in which the method transmits a downlink control message comprising a plurality of TPC commands. The downlink control message includes the TPC command determined in step1602for the particular power control closed loop and provides an indication of the particular power control closed loop to which the wireless device should apply the TPC command. In the example ofFIG. 16, the method uses a DCI CRC of the downlink control message to indicate the particular power control closed loop.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. As one example, for a wireless device configured with multiple closed loops, certain embodiments may advantageously help the wireless device unambiguously identify the closed loop to which TPC commands received in a PDDCH should be applied, especially for the cases where PDCCH carries multiple TPC commands applicable to a group of wireless devices. As another example, certain embodiments may advantageously provide a low-overhead solution for indicating group TPC commands with different closed loops for different types of PUSCH transmissions (e.g., grant based vs. grant free, PUSCH corresponding to different beams/TRPs). As still another example, certain embodiments may advantageously provide a more flexible solution as the closed loop is explicitly indicated. Other advantages may be readily apparent to one having skill in the art. Certain embodiments may have none, some, or all of the recited advantages.