Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. A first user equipment (UE) may receive a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. In some examples, a second UE may transmit the message or different as a message scheduling the sidelink message. The geographic directions to avoid when beamforming the sidelink message, or a combination thereof. The first UE may identify one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The first UE may transmit the air-to-air sidelink message to the second UE. The sidelink message may be precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The following relates to wireless communications, including techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications.

BACKGROUND

Wireless communications systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, and so on. These systems may be capable of supporting communication with multiple users by sharing the available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of such multiple-access systems include fourth generation (4G) systems such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) systems, or LTE-A Pro systems, and fifth generation (5G) systems which may be referred to as New Radio (NR) systems. These systems may employ technologies such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA), or discrete Fourier transform spread orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (DFT-S-OFDM). A wireless multiple-access communications system may include one or more base stations or one or more network access nodes, each simultaneously supporting communication for multiple communication devices, which may be otherwise known as user equipment (UE). Some wireless communications systems may support air-to-ground communications, for example, between a base station and a UE (e.g., airplanes, satellites, and the like, among other examples of wireless devices). However, such systems may be deficient. For example, the systems may fail to support efficient sidelink communications between UEs.

SUMMARY

The described techniques relate to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses that support techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications. Generally, the described techniques may enable one or more devices in a wireless communications system to perform beamforming (e.g., precoding) based on location information as described herein. For example, a first user equipment (UE) may receive a message indicating geographic location information of a second UE. Additionally or alternatively, the first UE may receive a message indicating one or more directions to avoid when beamforming (e.g., a same message or a different message). The first UE may identify one or more precoding parameters based on the message. The one or more precoding parameters may be selected for transmitting a sidelink message using a particular transmission beam, such as over a particular azimuth sub-angular-spread and a particular elevation sub-angular-spread. The first UE may transmit a sidelink message with the second UE that is precoded for transmission in accordance with the transmission beam corresponding to the one or more precoding parameters. By beamforming the sidelink message towards the geographic location of the second UE, away from the one or more directions (e.g., a direction associated with a third UE), or both, the first UE may realize improved communications reliability and communications efficiency (e.g., a relatively high data throughput), reduced interference, or any combination thereof, among other advantages.

A method for wireless communications at a first UE is described. The method may include receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel, identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information, and transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

An apparatus for wireless communications at a first UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory coupled with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to receive a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel, identify one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information, and transmit, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

Another apparatus for wireless communications at a first UE is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel, means for identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information, and means for transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communications at a first UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to receive a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel, identify one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information, and transmit, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that may be associated with the second UE.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that may be associated with a first direction to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a set of multiple zones defining a three dimensional air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within the air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space associated with the geo-coordinates.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a geographic location information request to the second UE via the sidelink channel and receiving the message indicating the geographic location information based on the geographic location information request.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating a first direction to avoid that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier, a three dimensional zone identifier, one or more geo-coordinates, an altitude level, or any combination thereof, associated with the first direction.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, receiving the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message indicating a speed of the second UE, a direction of the second UE, an expected location of the second UE, a trajectory of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting a capability message indicating a first quantity of different directions that the first UE may be capable of simultaneously beamforming, a second quantity of different directions that the first UE may be capable of avoiding during beamforming, or both, where receiving the message may be based on the transmitted capability message.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the capability message indicates an angular spread associated with the first quantity of different directions, the second quantity of different directions, or both, and the angular spread includes at least one of an azimuth sub-angular-spread and an elevation sub-angular-spread.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for communicating a grant via a sidelink connection with the second UE scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a grant via an access link connection with a base station scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving the message that may be a radio resource control message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a downlink control information message that indicates the geographic location information, a medium access control (MAC) control element message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a report message from the second UE indicating the geographic location information, or any combination thereof.

A method for wireless communications at a second UE is described. The method may include transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

An apparatus for wireless communications at a second UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory coupled with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to transmit, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and receive, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

Another apparatus for wireless communications at a second UE is described. The apparatus may include means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and means for receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communications at a second UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to transmit, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and receive, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that may be associated with the second UE.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that may be associated with a first direction for the first UE to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a set of multiple zones defining a three dimensional air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within an air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, transmitting the message may include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving a geographic location information request from the first UE via the sidelink channel and transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that may be a report message in response to the geographic location information request.

A method for wireless communications at a base station is described. The method may include transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

An apparatus for wireless communications at a base station is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory coupled with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to transmit, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and transmit, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

Another apparatus for wireless communications at a base station is described. The apparatus may include means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and means for transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communications at a base station is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to transmit, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel and transmit, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some wireless communications systems may support communications between a base station and a user equipment (UE). In some examples, the wireless communications systems may support air-to-ground communications between a base station and a UE (e.g., an airplane, a satellite, a drone, or other examples of wireless devices). However, in some cases such systems may fail to provide adequate coverage or may result in relatively frequent handover and/or relatively large transmission power from the base station. For example, due to large distances between a base station and one or more aircraft UEs, the base station may use relatively high transmission power or may be unable to achieve a desired data throughput.

In accordance with the techniques described herein, wireless communications systems may support air-to-air sidelink communications between airplane UEs. For example, a base station may establish an access link connection with a first UE (e.g., an aircraft UE, a drone, or other wireless device). The first UE may establish a sidelink connection with one or more other UEs (e.g., other airplanes), which may enable the first UE to forward communications from the base station, coordinate communications with the other UEs without relying on the base station, and the like. The described techniques may also enable the first UE to implement information for beamforming sidelink messages (e.g., precoding control information). For example, the first UE may use beamforming to transmit communications in a direction of one or more target UEs, avoid transmitting signal energy in undesired directions, or both, which may improve communications (e.g., decoding performance at a target UE), reduce interference, and the like. The information may include geographic location information of one or more UEs, one or more directions to avoid when beamforming, or any combination thereof. For example, a first UE (e.g., a transmitting UE) may receive a message indicating geographic location information of a second UE (e.g., a receiving UE). Additionally or alternatively, the first UE may receive a message indicating one or more directions to avoid when beamforming (e.g., the message may indicate a direction or location of a third UE to avoid for transmission to reduce interference at the third UE). The message may include a control message (e.g., from a base station), a report message (e.g., from the second UE), or any combination thereof. In some examples, a same message or different messages may indicate the one or more directions to avoid associated with the third UE and the geographic location information of the second UE.

In some examples, the message may indicate such beamforming information by identifying (e.g., indicating) a two dimensional (2D) zone identifier (ID), a three dimensional (3D) zone ID, one or more geo-coordinates, an altitude level, a speed or trajectory of one or more UEs, or any combination thereof, among other examples of beamforming or control information. In some examples, the first UE may communicate the message with a base station (e.g., Uu signaling via an access link), another UE (e.g., PC5 signaling via a sidelink), or any combination thereof. In some examples, the first UE may report a capability message indicating a capability of the first UE to communicate such information. In some examples, the first UE may request the beamforming information via a request message.

The first UE may transmit a sidelink message based on the control signaling. For example, the first UE may identify one or more precoding parameters (e.g., beamforming parameters) using the geographic location information, the one or more directions to avoid, or both. The first UE may be capable of generating multiple different transmission beams aimed in different directions. For example, the first UE may have a precoding codebook having a set of sequential precoders that each correspond to a respective set of one or more precoding parameters (e.g., a beam forming vector for generating a transmission beam in one of the different directions). The first UE may use the one or more precoding parameters for generating a transmission beam for beamforming a transmission of a sidelink message in a desired direction of the different directions. Thus, the first UE may beamform the sidelink message in the direction of a target UE, in a different direction of another UE (e.g., to reduce the likelihood of interference with the other UE), or both. By beamforming the sidelink message in accordance with such beamforming information, the first UE may realize improved communications reliability and communications efficiency (e.g., a relatively high data throughput), reduced interference, or any combination thereof, among other advantages.

Aspects of the disclosure are initially described in the context of wireless communications systems. Aspects of the disclosure are then described in the context of zone configurations and process flows. Aspects of the disclosure are further illustrated by and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flowcharts that relate to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications.

The wireless communications system100may support techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications. For example, the wireless communications system100may support ground-to-air communications, air-to-air communications, and the like. One or more of the wireless devices of the wireless communications system100may be provided with information for beamforming as described herein, which may be referred to as beamforming information, control information, location information, and the like. For example, a first UE115may receive a message indicating geographic location information of at least a second UE115. Additionally or alternatively, the first UE115may receive a message indicating one or more directions to avoid when beamforming. The first UE115may identify one or more precoding parameters based on the received message. For example, the first UE115may transmit a sidelink message with the second UE115that is precoded for transmission in accordance with the geographic location information, the one or more directions to avoid, or a combination thereof. By beamforming the sidelink message towards the geographic location of the second UE115, away from the one or more directions (e.g., a direction associated with a third UE115), or both, the first UE115may realize improved communications reliability and communications efficiency (e.g., a relatively high data throughput), reduced interference, or any combination thereof, among other advantages.

FIG.2illustrates an example of a wireless communications system200that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless communications system200may implement aspects of the wireless communications system100. For example, the wireless communications system200may include base stations205and UEs215, which may be examples of a base station105and a UE115as described herein.

The base stations205may each correspond to a coverage area210, which may be an example of a coverage area110as described herein with reference toFIG.1. For example, the base station205-amay serve a coverage area210-a, the base station205-bmay serve a coverage area210-b, and the base station205-cmay serve a coverage area210-c. The base stations205may communicate with UEs215via one or more communication links225. For example, the communication links225may be examples of communication links125as described herein with reference toFIG.1. In some examples, the UEs215may be examples of airplanes or other wireless devices (e.g., drones, vehicles, or other examples of wireless communications devices).

The wireless communications system200may support various types of communications. For example, the wireless communications system200may support air-to-ground communications. In such communications, the base stations205may communicate with the UEs215via communication links225. For example, in an in-land or coastal area, the base station205-amay be on the ground and transmit communications via an antenna that is tilted up towards the UE215-a. The UE215-amay be an example of an aircraft UE and may receive the communications with an antenna pointing down (e.g., the UE215-amay include antennas at the bottom of the UE215-a). For example, an aircraft UE215antenna may be mounted at a bottom of the aircraft (e.g., antennas with beamforming capabilities). Such wireless communications may be relatively low cost, relatively high throughput, realize lower latency, or any combination thereof (e.g., compared to satellite communications with the satellite220). In some examples, the wireless communications system200may support one or more traffic types (e.g., aircraft passenger communications, air traffic management communications, aircraft surveillance or maintenance communications, and the like).

Additionally or alternatively, the wireless communications system200may support communications with the satellite220. For example, the satellite220may communicate with the UE215-d(e.g., in an ocean area where the UE215-dmay be relatively far from the base station205-c). The satellite may communicate with the network covered by the coverage area210-d. For example, the base station205-cmay transmit or receive communications with the satellite220, and the satellite220may transmit or receive communications with the UE215-dvia the communication link225-h.

In some examples, the wireless communications system200may support time division duplex (TDD) or frequency division duplex (FDD) communications. For example, the wireless communications system may implement FDD communications in a non-terrestrial network (e.g., the wireless communications system200). In some examples, the wireless communications system may support relatively large inter-site distance (ISD), relatively large coverage ranges, or a combination thereof. For example, in order to control the network deployment cost and account for a quantity of flights, a large ISD may be implemented (e.g., 100 kilometers (km), 200 km, or any other range). Additionally or alternatively, the distance between a UE215and a base station205may be relatively large (e.g., when a plane is above the sea, the distance may be more than 200 km or any other distance), and thus the wireless communications system200(e.g., an air-to-ground system) may be configured to provide a relatively large cell coverage (e.g., up to 300 km cell coverage or any other range).

In some examples, the wireless communications system200may deploy both air-to-ground communications and a terrestrial NR network. For example, interference between the terrestrial network and the non-terrestrial network may be relatively low and some operators may adopt a same frequency for deploying both networks (e.g., 4.8 GHz or any other frequency). In some examples, an air-to-ground terminal (e.g., a UE215) may have a relatively large capacity. For example, an on-board air-to-ground terminal may be relatively more powerful than a mobile device UE (e.g., the terminal may have a higher effective isotropically radiated power (EIRP), larger transmission power, and/or larger on-board antenna gain than some terrestrial UEs). In some examples, the wireless communications system200may be configured as described herein to support relatively large cell coverage ranges, flight speeds (e.g., 1200 km/hour flight speeds, or other speeds), coexistence between air-to-ground networks and terrestrial networks, air-to-ground base station or UE core and performance thresholds, or any combination thereof. For example, the wireless communications system200may support one or more of a relatively large ISD, a relatively large timing advance (e.g., to avoid frequent handover and inter-cell interference), a relatively large per-cell throughput, a relatively high aircraft density, a relatively large doppler, a relatively large sub-carrier-spacing, a relatively short coherence time, a relatively fast timing advance drifting, various cyclic prefix lengths or waveforms (e.g., to support various propagation scenarios such as en-route, climbing, descending, take-off, parking, or landing of an aircraft, and the like).

In some examples, the air-to-ground or air-to-air communications may result in one or more link budgets. For example, the various devices may be configured to use a free space path loss when determining or estimating link budgets for one or more propagation scenarios (e.g., en-route, climb, or descent of an aircraft). Additionally or alternatively, the system may use a maximum path loss (MPL) that considers different frequency bands and different signal to noise ratios (SNRs). In some examples, the system may implement a relatively large amount of antenna elements, stronger antenna element gain, or both at a UE side (e.g., for 4.8 GHz or 3.5 GHz, or any other frequency range).

However, in some cases air-to-ground systems may fail to provide adequate coverage or may result in relatively frequent handover and/or relatively large transmission power from the base station205. For example, the base station205-cmay be relatively far from the UE215-d. The base station205-cmay use a relatively large transmission power to achieve a desired data throughput, or the base station205-cmay be unable to sufficiently cover the UE215-d. Additionally or alternatively, the UEs215may experience relatively frequent handover between base stations205.

In accordance with the techniques described herein, the wireless communications system200may support air-to-air communications. For example, the UEs215may communicate with each other via sidelinks (not shown). The UEs215may be enabled with beamforming information as described herein. For example, the UE215-amay receive a message indicating geographic location information of the UE215-b. Additionally or alternatively, the UE215-amay receive a message indicating one or more directions to avoid when beamforming. In some examples, the UE215-amay receive a same message or different messages if being indicated both the one or more directions and geographic location information. In some examples, the message may be an example of a control message. For example, the base station205-amay transmit the control signaling to the UE215-aindicating the geographic location information (e.g., the location of the second UE215-b, one or more directions to avoid associated with another UE215, or a combination thereof). In some examples, the message may be an example of a report message. For example, the UE215-amay request the information from other UEs215via a sidelink channel, and the UE215-bmay transmit the report message to the UE215-a.

The UE215-amay identify one or more precoding parameters based on the beamforming information. For example, the UE215-amay communicate a sidelink message with the UE215-bthat is precoded for transmission in accordance with the geographic location information, the one or more directions to avoid, or a combination thereof.

FIG.3illustrates an example of a wireless communications system300that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless communications system300may implement aspects of the wireless communications system100or the wireless communications system200. For example, the wireless communications system300may include a base station305and UEs315, which may be examples of a base station105and a UE115as described herein. The wireless communications system300may illustrate an example of an air-to-air communications system as described herein.

The base station305may communicate with the UE315-avia a communication link310-a. The communication link310-amay be an example of a communication link125as described with reference toFIG.1. For example, the base station305may communicate with the UE315-avia an access link (e.g., Uu communications). The UEs315may be examples of UEs115as described herein. For example, the UEs315may be examples of aircraft UEs315or other examples of wireless devices (e.g., drones, vehicles, mobile devices, or other examples of wireless communications devices).

The wireless communications system300may support sidelink communications with the UEs315. For example, the UEs315may communicate via various communication links310which may be examples of sidelinks for air-to-air communications. In some examples, the communication links310-b,310-c,310-d,310-e, and310-fmay be examples of various PC5 links or other sidelinks. As an illustrative example, the UE315-amay communicate with the UE315-bvia unicast communications, the UE315-bmay communicate with the UEs315-cand315-dvia multi-cast communications, the UEs315-cand315-dmay communicate with the UE315-evia unicast communications with UE-cooperation (e.g., the UE315-cand315-dmay transmit a same message on same resources to improve reception at the UE315-e), or any combination thereof. While shown as various communication links for illustrative clarity, any such communication links may be used between any of the UEs315, in addition or alternative to other examples of sidelinks and communications.

Thus, the wireless communications system300may support sidelink communications (e.g., NR sidelink based air-to-air communications). In some examples, the wireless communications system may support relatively large air-to-ground transmission power for relatively high throughput. In some examples, such sidelink communications may improve a throughput in the wireless communications system300. For example, a sidelink based relay/repeater configuration of airplane UEs315as shown inFIG.3may enable the base station305to transmit at a reduced transmission power as compared to the transmission power required by base stations205in the air to ground configuration shown inFIG.2, while also beneficially permitting the wireless communications system300to provide relatively high data throughput over a wide geographic coverage range (e.g., cell edge UEs315such as the UE315-emay experience improved communications efficiency and reliability), or both, among other advantages. To provide similar performance, the base station205would have to transmit at a larger transmission power to achieve a similarly wide geographic coverage range and a similar high data throughput data. Transmitting at such high powers, however, may be prohibited by local regulations. In some examples, the sidelink communications may be configured to extend coverage to UEs315based on predetermined air-routes of the UEs315. Additionally or alternatively, different aircrafts may be layered in different flight levels (FLs) (e.g., in a congested airspace), and the sidelink based multicast communications (or other sidelink communications) may improve reliability and throughput in the wireless communications system300.

In some examples, the UEs315may support a relatively large quantity of antenna elements as described herein. In some examples, the antenna placement for air-to-air beamforming may be placed in various locations on the UE315. For example, UE antenna elements may be mounted on the wings or tails of an aircraft UE315, among other examples of areas that provide for horizontal beamforming, vertical beamforming, or both.

The wireless communications system300may support various sidelink operation modes. For example, in a first resource allocation mode (e.g., resource allocation mode1), the base station305may schedule sidelink communications between the UEs315(e.g., physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH) communications may be scheduled by downlink control information (DCI) such as DCI3_0or other DCI formats). In a second resource allocation mode (e.g., resource allocation mode2), UEs315may coordinate to schedule sidelink communications. For example, UEs315may reserve resources from a sidelink resource pool for the communications. As an example, a UE315may transmit sidelink control information scheduling PSSCH communications to the other UEs315.

In some examples, the wireless communications system300may support various reports, such as channel state information (CSI) reports. However, the CSI reports may fail to include precoding information. Techniques to provide beamforming information (e.g., precoding information) may be desired. For example, such information may enable UEs315with relatively higher beamforming capabilities or UEs315lining up in relatively predetermined air-routes (e.g., stabilized and line of sight topologies) to more efficiently beamform the sidelink communications, among other advantages.

In accordance with the techniques described herein, the airplane UEs315may be signaled with geographic location information of other airplane UEs for beamforming transmissions over a sidelink channel between the airplane UEs315. For example, the UE315-amay receive a message indicating geographic location information of the UE315-b. Additionally or alternatively, the UE315-amay receive a message indicating one or more directions to avoid when beamforming (e.g., a location or direction associated with the UE315-d). In some examples, the UE315-amay receive a same message or different messages. In some examples, the message may be an example of a control message. For example, the base station305may transmit control signaling via the communication link310-ato the UE315-aindicating the geographic location information (e.g., the location of the second UE315-b, one or more directions to avoid associated with another UE315, or a combination thereof). In some examples, the message may be an example of a report message. For example, the UE315-amay request the geographic location information from one or more other UEs315via a sidelink channel (e.g., the UE315-bmay transmit a report message of the location of the UE315-b, the UE315-cmay transmit an indication of a direction to avoid, or any combination thereof, to the UE315-ain response to the request).

FIG.4illustrates an example of a wireless communications system400that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The wireless communications system400may implement aspects of the wireless communications system100, the wireless communications system200, or the wireless communications system300. For example, the wireless communications system400may include UEs415, which may be examples of a UE115as described herein.

The UE415-amay communicate with the UE415-bvia a beam405-a. The UE415-amay communicate with the UE415-dvia a beam405-b. The UE415-amay communicate with the UE415-cvia a communication link420-aand the UE415-bmay communicate with the UE415-cvia a communication link420-b, which may be examples of sidelinks as described with reference toFIG.3. In some examples, the UE415-amay be referred to as a transmitting UE and the UEs415-band415-cmay be referred to as receiving UEs, although any UE415may be an example of a transmitting UE or a receiving UE as described herein.

The UE415-amay receive beamforming information for precoding beams for communications with the other UEs415. For example, the UE415-amay receive a message indicating the beamforming information. In some examples, the beamforming information may include geographical location information. For example, the UEs415may be located in an airspace (e.g., an airspace as described with reference toFIG.5). As an illustrative example, there may be various directions of difference between the UEs415(e.g., the UE415-amay be 1.5 km in a horizontal distance from the UE415-b,0.6 km in a vertical distance from the UE415-b, and 10 km in a horizontal distance from the UE415-c, although any distance or quantity may be used).

In some examples, the UE415-amay receive a control message from a base station via an access link (e.g., Uu signaling) indicating (e.g., identifying) the beamforming information (e.g., geographic location information, parameters for beamforming, speed or trajectory information, and the like). In some examples, the message may be a control message (e.g., DCI) that includes a grant scheduling a sidelink transmission. For example, the base station may transmit a control message scheduling resources for communication of a sidelink message between the UE415-aand the UE415-b(or the UE415-dor both). In the control message or in another control message, the base station may indicate the beamforming information. For example, the base station may determine the location of the UE415-band indicate the geographic location information of the UE415-bto the UE415-ain the control message scheduling the PSSCH transmission or in another control message. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may determine the location of the UE415-cand indicate the location information of the UE415-c(e.g., the base station may include an indication of a location or direction for the UE415-ato avoid beamforming to reduce interference at the UE415-c). For example, UE415-cmay expect other sidelink or access link (e.g., Uu) transmissions within a same resource of the sidelink channel in which the UE415-ais transmitting via beam405-ato UE415-b.

In some examples, the UE415-amay be dynamically indicated such beamforming information (e.g., the location information for one or more target UEs415, the location information for one or more UEs415to avoid, or a combination thereof). For example, a base station may transmit the control message as a DCI message or a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE) message to dynamically indicate the location of another UE415. In some other examples, the UE415-amay be semi-statically configured with such beamforming information. For example, the base station may configure the information via a MAC-CE message or a radio resource control (RRC) message. In some examples, the location information may additionally or alternatively include or configure the future trajectory of a UE415(e.g., speed, flight direction, a predicted future location, a current location, a time duration between the future location and the current location, or any combination thereof, among other examples of trajectory information). For example, the message may configure or indicate to the UE415-athe trajectory425of the UE415-d. The UE415-amay beamform communications towards the UE415-dbased on the trajectory425. For example, the UE415-amay use a beam405-cdirected towards the expected next location of the UE415-d. Additionally or alternatively, the message may configure or indicate a trajectory of the UE415-c(e.g., such that the UE415-amay avoid beamforming towards the UE415-cand reduce interference). In some examples, such trajectory information may enable accurate beamforming, for example, when the UE415-ais semi-statically configured with location information.

In some examples, the UE415-amay report a capability message. For example, the UE415-amay transmit a capability message to the base station (or another UE415) indicating a capability associated with the beamforming information described herein. As an example, the capability message may indicate a quantity of receiving UEs415that may be signaled for such information (e.g., the number of UEs415that the UE415-amay simultaneously beamform towards). Additionally or alternatively, the capability message may indicate a quantity of UEs415that the UE415-amay beamform to avoid (e.g., a quantity of different directions or locations in which the UE415-amay avoid when beamforming). In some examples, the capability message may include or indicate an angular spread (e.g., a 3D angular spread, a 2D angular spread, and the like) associated with the one or more quantities (e.g., a first angular spread associated with the quantity of possible target UEs415, a second angular spread associated with the quantity of UEs415that the UE415-amay avoid when beamforming, or both). In some examples, the angular spread may include an azimuth sub-angular-spread, an elevation sub-angular spread, or both.

In some examples, the UE415-amay receive a control message or a report message from one or more other UEs415(e.g., PC5 signaling). For example, the UE415-amay request such beamforming information (e.g., location information for a target UE415-b, a direction to avoid associated with the UE415-c, or a combination thereof) via a request message. The UE415-amay receive the report message in response to the request message. For example, the UE415-bmay transmit the report message indicating the location information of the UE415-b, the location information associated with the UE415-c(e.g., one or more directions for the UE415-ato avoid when beamforming), or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the UE415-cmay transmit an indication of the location information to the UE415-avia the communication link420-a. That is, the report message may be a same message or multiple messages. In some examples, the UE415-amay receive a sidelink control message indicating the beamforming information. In some examples, in a same or different message, the UE415-amay receive or transmit scheduling information associated with transmitting a sidelink message to another UE415. For example, the UE415-amay transmit sidelink control information scheduling a PSSCH transmission to the UE415-b(e.g., the UE415-amay unicast or broadcast a reservation of the resources for the PSSCH transmission). The UE415-amay trigger a location information report (e.g., transmit the request message) using the same sidelink control information message or another message.

In some examples, the UE415-amay receive additional or alternative beamforming information. For example, in addition or alternative to the location information of a target UE415-d, the UE415-amay receive trajectory information associated with the UE415-dindicating the trajectory425. Such information may be indicated in a same or different message as the location information of the UE415-d. For example, the UE415-dmay report a flight speed, a direction, a predicted future location, a current location, a time duration between the future location and the current location, or any combination thereof (e.g., using a 2D signaling scheme or a 3D signaling scheme as described herein, such as 2D coordinates or zones, 3D coordinates or zones, or a combination thereof). As a first illustrative example, the UE415-dmay indicate an explicit flight speed, direction, or both to the UE415-a(e.g., in addition to a current location of the UE415-d). As another illustrative example, the UE415-dmay report a next expected location after a time-domain duration. For example, the UE415-dmay report a zone of the next location (e.g., a 2D zone ID or a 3D zone ID), geo-coordinates of the next location, a flight level (e.g., an altitude level) of the next location, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the reported next location may be associated with or relative to the current location of the UE415-d. In some examples, the UE415-amay determine the time duration between the current location and the future location based on a pre-configuration of the UE415-a, an indication from the UE415-d(e.g., the UE415-amay indicate the time duration together with triggering of the UE415-dto provide a location information report), or any combination thereof.

In some examples, such reported beamforming information (e.g., the location or direction of target UEs415, the location or direction of UEs415to be avoided when beamforming, or the combination thereof) may be reported by a receiving UE415via MAC-CE messaging or RRC messaging through sidelink connections with the respective receiving UEs415. For example, the UE415-dmay indicate beamforming information (e.g., geographic location information) via MAC-CE or RRC via a sidelink connection with the UE415-a, among other examples of methods to carry such information.

In some examples, the one or more messages indicating the geographic location information may include or identify 2D zone IDs, 3D zone IDs, one or more geo-coordinates (e.g., Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) coordinates), an altitude level, a speed or trajectory, or any combination thereof, among other examples of location information. For example, the UE415-amay receive a 2D zone ID, a 3D zone ID, an altitude level (e.g., a flight level indicating a distance above the ground), one or more geo-coordinates, or any combination thereof associated with a target UE415or a UE415to be avoided, although the location information of any quantity of target UEs or UEs to be avoided may be indicated by the one or more messages. Such zone configurations are described with more detail with reference toFIG.5.

In some examples, multiple UE locations may be signaled as described herein. For example, the UE415-amay receive an indication of a first location of the UE415-band a second location of the UE415-d, or any quantity of UE locations. For instance, the UE415-dmay report location information of the UE415-dand the UE415-bmay report location information of the UE415-b(e.g., to the UE415-d, to a base station, etc.), and the UE415-amay receive the location information via an access link or a sidelink.

Thus, the UE415-amay beamform the beams405-a,405-b, or both based on the beamforming information (although any quantity of beams, UEs415, and the like may be used). For example, the UE415-amay identify (e.g., determine) one or more beamforming parameters (e.g., precoding parameters) using the geographic location information of a target UE415, a direction (e.g., of a UE415) to be avoided, or a combination thereof. As an illustrative example, the UE415-amay receive one or more messages indicating the location information of the UE415-a, the location information of the UE415-c(e.g., a first direction to be avoided to reduce interference), or a combination thereof. The UE415-amay select precoding parameters to steer or aim the beam405-atowards the UE415-b, away from the UE415-c, or both, which may improve a reliability of communications, reduce an effect of interference (e.g., the UE415-cmay be enabled to receive sidelink communications from the UE415-dwithout interference from the UE415-atransmitting to the UE415-b), or a combination thereof, among other advantages. Stated alternatively, the UE415-amay determine its precoder based on the location of a target UE415-b, a location of a UE415-cto be avoided, or both. For example, the UE415-amay be capable of generating multiple different transmission beams405aimed in different directions. The UE415-amay have a precoding codebook having a set of sequential precoders that each correspond to a respective set of one or more precoding parameters (e.g., a beam forming vector for generating a transmission beam405in one of the different directions). The UE415-amay use the one or more precoding parameters for generating a transmission beam405for beamforming a transmission of a sidelink message in a desired direction of the different directions. As an example, the UE415-amay transmit a sidelink message via the beam405-ausing the determined precoder (e.g., using the one or more identified precoding parameters).

FIG.5illustrates examples of zone configurations500and501that support techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The zone configurations500and501may implement aspects of the wireless communications systems as described with reference toFIGS.1-4. For example, the zone configurations500and501may represent airspaces divided into 3D zones or 2D zones, which may be used to indicate the geographic location information for a target UE or a UE to be avoided when beamforming as described herein.

The zone configuration500may illustrate an example of a 3D zone configuration. For example, the zone configuration may include 3D zones510that extend in three dimensions (e.g., an X direction, a Y direction, and a Z direction). The 3D zones510may be examples of cubes or other 3D shapes. As an illustrative example, the airspace covered by the zone configuration500may be defined by dividing the airspace into 3D cubes. The size of the 3D cubes may be configured at one or more UEs. For example, the UEs may be pre-configured with a size of the cubes, locations of the cubes (e.g., where the 3D airspace begins or end), or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, such information may be configured via control signaling. For example, a UE may receive RRC messaging that configures a size of the 3D cubes, among other examples of control signaling.

The zone configuration501may illustrate an example of another 3D zone configuration implementing one or more altitude levels515(e.g., flight levels). For example, the zone configuration501may include 2D zones520that extend in two dimensions (e.g., a horizontal X direction and a horizontal Y direction). The zone configuration501may include one or more altitude levels515(e.g., flat levels FL). For example, a first altitude level515-amay correspond to a first distance above the ground and a second altitude level515-bmay correspond to a second distance above the ground. In some examples, the difference525between adjacent pairs or altitude levels515may be preconfigured at a UE or indicated via control signaling (e.g., the difference525may be RRC configured in addition or alternative to the sizes of the 2D zones520).

In some examples, the wireless communications system may support geo-coordinates for indicating a location of a UE within the airspace. For example, the geographic location information of a respective UE as described herein may include a 2D zone ID or a 3D zone ID (e.g., an ID of a 3D zone510, an ID of a 2D zone520and an altitude level515). Additionally or alternatively, the geographic location information may indicate geo-coordinates (e.g., GNSS coordinates, global positioning system (GPS) coordinates, and the like), an altitude level515, or a combination thereof, of a receiver UE, a direction to avoid, or both. Thus, a UE may be enabled to report, indicate, or determine geographic location information of one or more UEs using the location information described herein. For example, a transmitting UE may use the geographic location information (e.g., 2D zone IDs, 3D zone IDs, geo-coordinates, etc.) to determine in which direction to beamform transmission, in which direction to avoid when beamforming, or a combination thereof as described herein with reference toFIG.4.

FIG.6illustrates an example of a process flow600that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The process flow600may implement aspects of the wireless communications system100, the wireless communications system200, the wireless communications system300, the wireless communications system400, or any combination thereof as described with reference toFIGS.1-4. In some examples, the process flow600may include example operations associated with a transmitting UE605, a receiving UE610, and a base station615, which may be examples of corresponding devices described with reference toFIGS.1-5. In the following description of the process flow700, the operations between the UE605, the UE610, and the base station615may be performed in a different order than the example order shown, or the operations performed by the devices may be performed in different orders or at different times. Some operations may also be omitted from the process flow600, and other operations may be added to the process flow600.

In some examples, at620the UE605may transmit a capability message to the UE610, the base station615, or both. For example, the UE605may report a capability of the UE605to support beamforming information as described herein with reference toFIG.4.

In some examples, at625the UE605may transmit an information request to the UE610, the base station615, or both. For example, the UE605may request location information from the UE610, from another UE to be avoided for beamforming, or a combination thereof in a sidelink mode2system. Additionally or alternatively, the UE605may request the base station615for the location information of the other UEs.

In some examples, at630the UE610may transmit location information to the UE605. For example, the UE610may transmit the location information indicating a zone, FL, coordinates, and the like of the UE610to the UE605as described herein with reference toFIGS.4and5. In some cases, the UE610may transmit the location in response to the information request. In some other examples, at635the UE610may report the location information to the base station615.

In some examples, at640the base station615may transmit the location information to the UE605. For example, the base station615may indicate the location information of the UE610, another UE to avoid, or both as described herein with reference toFIG.4(e.g., via DCI, MAC-CE, RRC, and the like).

At645, the UE605may determine beamforming information. For example, the UE605may determine geographic location information of the target UE610, geographic location of a UE to be avoided (e.g., a first direction towards another UE to avoid for beamforming), or both based on the received beamforming information.

At655, the UE605may transmit the sidelink message using the identified one or more precoding parameters. For example, the UE605may schedule or be scheduled with the resources for the sidelink message (e.g., via a control message that is the same or different from messages indicating the beamforming information) and the UE605may transmit the sidelink message using a beam that is beamformed towards one or more target UEs, away from one or more UEs to be avoided, or a combination thereof.

FIG.7shows a block diagram700of a device705that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device705may be an example of aspects of a UE115as described herein (e.g., a receiving UE115, a transmitting UE115, or a combination thereof). The device705may include a receiver710, a transmitter715, and a communications manager720. The device705may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver710may provide a means for receiving information such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels related to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). Information may be passed on to other components of the device705. The receiver710may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

The communications manager720, the receiver710, the transmitter715, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager720, the receiver710, the transmitter715, or various combinations or components thereof may support a method for performing one or more of the functions described herein.

In some examples, the communications manager720may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the receiver710, the transmitter715, or both. For example, the communications manager720may receive information from the receiver710, send information to the transmitter715, or be integrated in combination with the receiver710, the transmitter715, or both to receive information, transmit information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

The communications manager720may support wireless communications at a first UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager720may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager720may be configured as or otherwise support a means for identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The communications manager720may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

Additionally or alternatively, the communications manager720may support wireless communications at a second UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager720may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager720may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

By including or configuring the communications manager720in accordance with examples as described herein, the device705(e.g., a processor controlling or otherwise coupled to the receiver710, the transmitter715, the communications manager720, or a combination thereof) may support techniques for beamforming air-to-air sidelink messages towards a target device, away from other devices, or a combination thereof, which may result in improved communications efficiency and reliability at the device705, among other advantages.

FIG.8shows a block diagram800of a device805that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device805may be an example of aspects of a device705or a UE115as described herein. The device805may include a receiver810, a transmitter815, and a communications manager820. The device805may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver810may provide a means for receiving information such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels related to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). Information may be passed on to other components of the device805. The receiver810may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

The device805, or various components thereof, may be an example of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager820may include a message receiver825, a precoding component830, a sidelink message component835, a message transmitter840, or any combination thereof. The communications manager820may be an example of aspects of a communications manager720as described herein. In some examples, the communications manager820, or various components thereof, may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the receiver810, the transmitter815, or both. For example, the communications manager820may receive information from the receiver810, send information to the transmitter815, or be integrated in combination with the receiver810, the transmitter815, or both to receive information, transmit information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

The communications manager820may support wireless communications at a first UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The message receiver825may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The precoding component830may be configured as or otherwise support a means for identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The sidelink message component835may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

Additionally or alternatively, the communications manager820may support wireless communications at a second UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The message transmitter840may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The sidelink message component835may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

FIG.9shows a block diagram900of a communications manager920that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communications manager920may be an example of aspects of a communications manager720, a communications manager820, or both, as described herein. The communications manager920, or various components thereof, may be an example of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager920may include a message receiver925, a precoding component930, a sidelink message component935, a message transmitter940, an identifier component945, a request component950, an avoidance component955, a trajectory component960, a capability component965, a grant component970, a configuration component975, or any combination thereof. Each of these components may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The communications manager920may support wireless communications at a first UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The message receiver925may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The precoding component930may be configured as or otherwise support a means for identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The sidelink message component935may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the message receiver925may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with the second UE.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the message receiver925may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with a first direction to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a set of multiple zones defining a three dimensional air space.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within the air space.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space associated with the geo-coordinates.

In some examples, the request component950may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting a geographic location information request to the second UE via the sidelink channel. In some examples, the message receiver925may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating the geographic location information based on the geographic location information request.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the avoidance component955may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating a first direction to avoid that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier, a three dimensional zone identifier, one or more geo-coordinates, an altitude level, or any combination thereof, associated with the first direction.

In some examples, to support receiving the message, the trajectory component960may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message indicating a speed of the second UE, a direction of the second UE, an expected location of the second UE, a trajectory of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

In some examples, the capability component965may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting a capability message indicating a first quantity of different directions that the first UE is capable of simultaneously beamforming, a second quantity of different directions that the first UE is capable of avoiding during beamforming, or both, where receiving the message is based on the transmitted capability message.

In some examples, the capability message indicates an angular spread associated with the first quantity of different directions, the second quantity of different directions, or both, wherein the angular spread includes at least one of an azimuth sub-angular-spread and an elevation sub-angular-spread.

In some examples, the grant component970may be configured as or otherwise support a means for communicating a grant via a sidelink connection with the second UE scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples, the grant component970may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a grant via an access link connection with a base station scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples, the configuration component975may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving the message that is a radio resource control message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a downlink control information message that indicates the geographic location information, a medium access control (MAC) control element message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a report message from the second UE indicating the geographic location information, or any combination thereof.

Additionally or alternatively, the communications manager920may support wireless communications at a second UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The message transmitter940may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. In some examples, the sidelink message component935may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the message transmitter940may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with the second UE.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the message transmitter940may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with a first direction for the first UE to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a set of multiple zones defining a three dimensional air space.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within an air space.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a set of multiple different altitude levels of an air space.

In some examples, to support transmitting the message, the identifier component945may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

In some examples, the request component950may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a geographic location information request from the first UE via the sidelink channel. In some examples, the message transmitter940may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is a report message in response to the geographic location information request.

FIG.10shows a diagram of a system1000including a device1005that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1005may be an example of or include the components of a device705, a device805, or a UE115as described herein. The device1005may communicate wirelessly with one or more base stations105, UEs115, or any combination thereof. The device1005may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as a communications manager1020, an input/output (I/O) controller1010, a transceiver1015, an antenna1025, a memory1030, code1035, and a processor1040. These components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more buses (e.g., a bus1045).

The processor1040may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic component, a discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor1040may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some other cases, a memory controller may be integrated into the processor1040. The processor1040may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory1030) to cause the device1005to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). For example, the device1005or a component of the device1005may include a processor1040and memory1030coupled to the processor1040, the processor1040and memory1030configured to perform various functions described herein.

The communications manager1020may support wireless communications at a first UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager1020may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager1020may be configured as or otherwise support a means for identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The communications manager1020may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

Additionally or alternatively, the communications manager1020may support wireless communications at a second UE in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager1020may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager1020may be configured as or otherwise support a means for receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

By including or configuring the communications manager1020in accordance with examples as described herein, the device1005may support techniques for beamforming air-to-air sidelink messages towards a target device, away from other devices, or a combination thereof, which may result in improved communications efficiency and reliability at the device1005, among other advantages.

In some examples, the communications manager1020may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the transceiver1015, the one or more antennas1025, or any combination thereof. Although the communications manager1020is illustrated as a separate component, in some examples, one or more functions described with reference to the communications manager1020may be supported by or performed by the processor1040, the memory1030, the code1035, or any combination thereof. For example, the code1035may include instructions executable by the processor1040to cause the device1005to perform various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein, or the processor1040and the memory1030may be otherwise configured to perform or support such operations.

FIG.11shows a block diagram1100of a device1105that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1105may be an example of aspects of a base station105as described herein. The device1105may include a receiver1110, a transmitter1115, and a communications manager1120. The device1105may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver1110may provide a means for receiving information such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels related to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). Information may be passed on to other components of the device1105. The receiver1110may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

The communications manager1120, the receiver1110, the transmitter1115, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager1120, the receiver1110, the transmitter1115, or various combinations or components thereof may support a method for performing one or more of the functions described herein.

In some examples, the communications manager1120may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the receiver1110, the transmitter1115, or both. For example, the communications manager1120may receive information from the receiver1110, send information to the transmitter1115, or be integrated in combination with the receiver1110, the transmitter1115, or both to receive information, transmit information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

The communications manager1120may support wireless communications at a base station in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager1120may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager1120may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

By including or configuring the communications manager1120in accordance with examples as described herein, the device1105(e.g., a processor controlling or otherwise coupled to the receiver1110, the transmitter1115, the communications manager1120, or a combination thereof) may support techniques for air-to-air sidelink messages, which may result in reduced processing power at the device1105, improved communications efficiency and reliability in the system, or both, among other advantages.

FIG.12shows a block diagram1200of a device1205that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1205may be an example of aspects of a device1105or a base station105as described herein. The device1205may include a receiver1210, a transmitter1215, and a communications manager1220. The device1205may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The receiver1210may provide a means for receiving information such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels related to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). Information may be passed on to other components of the device1205. The receiver1210may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

The transmitter1215may provide a means for transmitting signals generated by other components of the device1205. For example, the transmitter1215may transmit information such as packets, user data, control information, or any combination thereof associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, information channels related to techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). In some examples, the transmitter1215may be co-located with a receiver1210in a transceiver module. The transmitter1215may utilize a single antenna or a set of multiple antennas.

The device1205, or various components thereof, may be an example of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager1220may include a location information component1225a scheduling component1230, or any combination thereof. The communications manager1220may be an example of aspects of a communications manager1120as described herein. In some examples, the communications manager1220, or various components thereof, may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the receiver1210, the transmitter1215, or both. For example, the communications manager1220may receive information from the receiver1210, send information to the transmitter1215, or be integrated in combination with the receiver1210, the transmitter1215, or both to receive information, transmit information, or perform various other operations as described herein.

The communications manager1220may support wireless communications at a base station in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The location information component1225may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The scheduling component1230may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

FIG.13shows a block diagram1300of a communications manager1320that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communications manager1320may be an example of aspects of a communications manager1120, a communications manager1220, or both, as described herein. The communications manager1320, or various components thereof, may be an example of means for performing various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein. For example, the communications manager1320may include a location information component1325a scheduling component1330, or any combination thereof. Each of these components may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The communications manager1320may support wireless communications at a base station in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. The location information component1325may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The scheduling component1330may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

FIG.14shows a diagram of a system1400including a device1405that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device1405may be an example of or include the components of a device1105, a device1205, or a base station105as described herein. The device1405may communicate wirelessly with one or more base stations105, UEs115, or any combination thereof. The device1405may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as a communications manager1420, a network communications manager1410, a transceiver1415, an antenna1425, a memory1430, code1435, a processor1440, and an inter-station communications manager1445. These components may be in electronic communication or otherwise coupled (e.g., operatively, communicatively, functionally, electronically, electrically) via one or more buses (e.g., a bus1450).

The network communications manager1410may manage communications with a core network130(e.g., via one or more wired backhaul links). For example, the network communications manager1410may manage the transfer of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs115.

In some cases, the device1405may include a single antenna1425. However, in some other cases the device1405may have more than one antenna1425, which may be capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. The transceiver1415may communicate bi-directionally, via the one or more antennas1425, wired, or wireless links as described herein. For example, the transceiver1415may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bi-directionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver1415may also include a modem to modulate the packets, to provide the modulated packets to one or more antennas1425for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the one or more antennas1425. The transceiver1415, or the transceiver1415and one or more antennas1425, may be an example of a transmitter1115, a transmitter1215, a receiver1110, a receiver1210, or any combination thereof or component thereof, as described herein.

The memory1430may include RAM and ROM. The memory1430may store computer-readable, computer-executable code1435including instructions that, when executed by the processor1440, cause the device1405to perform various functions described herein. The code1435may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as system memory or another type of memory. In some cases, the code1435may not be directly executable by the processor1440but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein. In some cases, the memory1430may contain, among other things, a BIOS which may control basic hardware or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

The processor1440may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic component, a discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor1440may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some other cases, a memory controller may be integrated into the processor1440. The processor1440may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., the memory1430) to cause the device1405to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks supporting techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications). For example, the device1405or a component of the device1405may include a processor1440and memory1430coupled to the processor1440, the processor1440and memory1430configured to perform various functions described herein.

The communications manager1420may support wireless communications at a base station in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. For example, the communications manager1420may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The communications manager1420may be configured as or otherwise support a means for transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

By including or configuring the communications manager1420in accordance with examples as described herein, the device1405may support techniques for air-to-air sidelink messages, which may result in reduced processing power at the device1405, improved communications efficiency and reliability in the system, or both, among other advantages.

In some examples, the communications manager1420may be configured to perform various operations (e.g., receiving, monitoring, transmitting) using or otherwise in cooperation with the transceiver1415, the one or more antennas1425, or any combination thereof. Although the communications manager1420is illustrated as a separate component, in some examples, one or more functions described with reference to the communications manager1420may be supported by or performed by the processor1440, the memory1430, the code1435, or any combination thereof. For example, the code1435may include instructions executable by the processor1440to cause the device1405to perform various aspects of techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications as described herein, or the processor1440and the memory1430may be otherwise configured to perform or support such operations.

FIG.15shows a flowchart illustrating a method1500that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method1500may be implemented by a UE or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of the method1500may be performed by a UE115as described with reference toFIGS.1through10. In some examples, a UE may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may perform aspects of the described functions using special-purpose hardware.

At1505, the method may include receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The operations of1505may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1505may be performed by a message receiver925as described with reference toFIG.9.

At1510, the method may include identifying one or more precoding parameters based on the geographic location information. The operations of1510may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1510may be performed by a precoding component930as described with reference toFIG.9.

At1515, the method may include transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters. The operations of1515may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1515may be performed by a sidelink message component935as described with reference toFIG.9.

At1605, the method may include transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The operations of1605may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1605may be performed by a message transmitter940as described with reference toFIG.9.

At1610, the method may include receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information. The operations of1610may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1610may be performed by a sidelink message component935as described with reference toFIG.9.

FIG.17shows a flowchart illustrating a method1700that supports techniques for precoding air-to-air sidelink communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method1700may be implemented by a base station or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of the method1700may be performed by a base station105as described with reference toFIGS.1through6and11through14. In some examples, a base station may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the base station to perform the described functions. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may perform aspects of the described functions using special-purpose hardware.

At1705, the method may include transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel. The operations of1705may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1705may be performed by a location information component1325as described with reference toFIG.13.

At1710, the method may include transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel. The operations of1710may be performed in accordance with examples as disclosed herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1710may be performed by a scheduling component1330as described with reference toFIG.13.

Aspect 1: A method for wireless communications at a first UE, comprising: receiving a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel; identifying one or more precoding parameters based at least in part on the geographic location information; and transmitting, to a second UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission via a transmission beam using the one or more precoding parameters.

Aspect 2: The method of aspect 1, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with the second UE.

Aspect 3: The method of any of aspects 1 through 2, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with a first direction to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

Aspect 4: The method of any of aspects 1 through 3, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

Aspect 5: The method of any of aspects 1 through 4, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a plurality of zones defining a three dimensional air space.

Aspect 6: The method of any of aspects 1 through 5, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a plurality of different altitude levels of an air space.

Aspect 7: The method of aspect 6, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within the air space.

Aspect 8: The method of any of aspects 1 through 7, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a plurality of different altitude levels of an air space.

Aspect 9: The method of any of aspects 1 through 8, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

Aspect 10: The method of aspect 9, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a plurality of different altitude levels of an air space associated with the geo-coordinates.

Aspect 11: The method of any of aspects 1 through 10, further comprising: transmitting a geographic location information request to the second UE via the sidelink channel; and receiving the message indicating the geographic location information based at least in part on the geographic location information request.

Aspect 12: The method of any of aspects 1 through 11, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating a first direction to avoid that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier, a three dimensional zone identifier, one or more geo-coordinates, an altitude level, or any combination thereof, associated with the first direction.

Aspect 13: The method of any of aspects 1 through 12, wherein receiving the message comprises: receiving the message indicating a speed of the second UE, a direction of the second UE, an expected location of the second UE, a trajectory of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

Aspect 14: The method of any of aspects 1 through 13, further comprising: transmitting a capability message indicating a first quantity of different directions that the first UE is capable of simultaneously beamforming, a second quantity of different directions that the first UE is capable of avoiding during beamforming, or both, wherein receiving the message is based at least in part on the transmitted capability message.

Aspect 15: The method of aspect 14, wherein the capability message indicates an angular spread associated with the first quantity of different directions, the second quantity of different directions, or both, the angular spread includes at least one of an azimuth sub-angular-spread and an elevation sub-angular-spread.

Aspect 16: The method of any of aspects 1 through 15, further comprising: communicating a grant via a sidelink connection with the second UE scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

Aspect 17: The method of any of aspects 1 through 16, further comprising: receiving a grant via an access link connection with a base station scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message.

Aspect 18: The method of any of aspects 1 through 17, further comprising: receiving the message that is a radio resource control message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a downlink control information message that indicates the geographic location information, a medium access control (MAC) control element message that semi-statically configures the geographic location information, a report message from the second UE indicating the geographic location information, or any combination thereof.

Aspect 19: A method for wireless communications at a second UE, comprising: transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel; and receiving, from the first UE via the sidelink channel, the air-to-air sidelink message that is precoded for transmission using one or more precoding parameters associated with the geographic location information.

Aspect 20: The method of aspect 19, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with the second UE.

Aspect 21: The method of any of aspects 19 through 20, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is associated with a first direction for the first UE to avoid when beamforming the air-to-air sidelink message.

Aspect 22: The method of any of aspects 19 through 21, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE, one or more geo-coordinates of the second UE, an altitude level of the second UE, or any combination thereof.

Aspect 23: The method of any of aspects 19 through 22, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a three dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a size of a zone within a plurality of zones defining a three dimensional air space.

Aspect 24: The method of any of aspects 19 through 23, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a first altitude level of the second UE within a plurality of different altitude levels of an air space.

Aspect 25: The method of any of aspects 19 through 24, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies an altitude difference between adjacent altitude levels within an air space.

Aspect 26: The method of any of aspects 19 through 25, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies a two dimensional zone identifier of the second UE and a first altitude level of the second UE within a plurality of different altitude levels of an air space.

Aspect 27: The method of any of aspects 19 through 26, wherein transmitting the message comprises: transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that identifies geo-coordinates of the second UE.

Aspect 28: The method of any of aspects 19 through 27, further comprising: receiving a geographic location information request from the first UE via the sidelink channel; and transmitting the message indicating the geographic location information that is a report message in response to the geographic location information request.

Aspect 29: A method for wireless communications at a base station, comprising: transmitting, to a first UE, a message indicating geographic location information related to beamforming an air-to-air sidelink message via a sidelink channel; and transmitting, to the first UE, a grant scheduling transmission of the air-to-air sidelink message from the first UE to a second UE via a sidelink channel.

Aspect 33: An apparatus for wireless communications at a second UE, comprising a processor; memory coupled with the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform a method of any of aspects 19 through 28.

Aspect 34: An apparatus for wireless communications at a second UE, comprising at least one means for performing a method of any of aspects 19 through 28.

Aspect 36: An apparatus for wireless communications at a base station, comprising a processor; memory coupled with the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform a method of aspect 29.

Aspect 37: An apparatus for wireless communications at a base station, comprising at least one means for performing a method of aspect 29.

Aspect 38: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communications at a base station, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform a method of aspect 29.