Patent ID: 12219619

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the subject disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example embodiments are shown. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments. However, the subject disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein.

The various aspects described herein relate to new radio, which can be deployed as a standalone radio access technology or as a non-standalone radio access technology assisted by another radio access technology, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), for example. LTE specifies a fixed location of the signals used for initial access, such as Primary Synchronization Signals (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signals (SSS), and physical broadcast channels (PBCH). LTE also specifies a fixed location of wideband mobility measurement signals, which are cell-specific (e.g., Cell specific Reference Signals (CRS)). New radio (NR) does not employ a fixed position for signals used for initial access and wideband mobility measurement. For new radio, the various aspects discussed herein provide flexibility and/or configurability of the synchronization signals and broadcast channels used for initial access. As discussed herein, the configuration and indication of the time resources and/or frequency resources used for initial access on new radio can be provided by implicit or explicit LTE signaling to reduce mobile device complexity and provide for efficient initial access and mobility.

As an overview, various embodiments are described herein to facilitate initial access and mobility for a 5G network or other next generation networks It should be noted that although various aspects and embodiments have been described herein in the context of 5G, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), and/or Long Term Evolution (LTE), or other next generation networks, the disclosed aspects are not limited to 5G, a UMTS implementation, and/or an LTE implementation as the techniques can also be applied in 3G, 4G, or LTE systems. For example, aspects or features of the disclosed embodiments can be exploited in substantially any wireless communication technology. Such wireless communication technologies can include UMTS, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wi-Fi, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced GPRS, Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), LTE, Third Generation Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2) Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), Evolved High Speed Packet Access (HSPA+), High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Zigbee, or another IEEE 802.XX technology. Additionally, substantially all aspects disclosed herein can be exploited in legacy telecommunication technologies.

Described herein are systems, methods, articles of manufacture, and other embodiments or implementations that can facilitate initial access and mobility for a 5G network. Facilitating initial access and mobility for a 5G network can be implemented in connection with any type of device with a connection to the communications network (e.g., a mobile handset, a computer, a handheld device, etc.) any Internet of things (IoT) device (e.g., toaster, coffee maker, blinds, music players, speakers, etc.), and/or any connected vehicles (cars, airplanes, space rockets, and/or other at least partially automated vehicles (e.g., drones)). In some embodiments, the non-limiting term User Equipment (UE) is used. It can refer to any type of wireless device that communicates with a radio network node in a cellular or mobile communication system. Examples of UE are target device, device to device (D2D) UE, machine type UE or UE capable of machine to machine (M2M) communication, PDA, Tablet, mobile terminals, smart phone, Laptop Embedded Equipped (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles etc. Note that the terms element, elements and antenna ports can be interchangeably used but carry the same meaning in this disclosure. The embodiments are applicable to single carrier as well as to Multi-Carrier (MC) or Carrier Aggregation (CA) operation of the UE. The term Carrier Aggregation (CA) is also called (e.g., interchangeably called) “multi-carrier system,” “multi-cell operation,” “multi-carrier operation,” “multi-carrier” transmission and/or reception.

In some embodiments, the non-limiting term radio network node or simply network node is used. It can refer to any type of network node that serves one or more UEs and/or that is connected to other network nodes or network elements or any radio node from where the one or more UEs receive a signal. Examples of radio network nodes are Node B, Base Station (BS), Multi-Standard Radio (MSR) node such as MSR BS, eNode B, network controller, Radio Network Controller (RNC), Base Station Controller (BSC), relay, donor node controlling relay, Base Transceiver Station (BTS), Access Point (AP), transmission points, transmission nodes, RRU, RRH, nodes in Distributed Antenna System (DAS) etc.

Cloud Radio Access Networks (RAN) can enable the implementation of concepts such as Software-Defined Network (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) in 5G networks. This disclosure can facilitate a generic channel state information framework design for a 5G network. Certain embodiments of this disclosure can comprise an SDN controller that can control routing of traffic within the network and between the network and traffic destinations. The SDN controller can be merged with the 5G network architecture to enable service deliveries via open Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and move the network core towards an all Internet Protocol (IP), cloud based, and software driven telecommunications network. The SDN controller can work with, or take the place of Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) network elements so that policies such as quality of service and traffic management and routing can be synchronized and managed end to end.

To meet the huge demand for data centric applications, 4G standards can be applied to 5G, also called New Radio (NR) access. 5G networks can comprise the following: data rates of several tens of megabits per second supported for tens of thousands of users; 1 gigabit per second can be offered simultaneously to tens of workers on the same office floor; several hundreds of thousands of simultaneous connections can be supported for massive sensor deployments; spectral efficiency can be enhanced compared to 4G; improved coverage; enhanced signaling efficiency; and reduced latency compared to LTE. In multicarrier system such as OFDM, each subcarrier can occupy bandwidth (e.g., subcarrier spacing). If the carriers use the same bandwidth spacing, then it can be considered a single numerology. However, if the carriers occupy different bandwidth and/or spacing, then it can be considered a multiple numerology.

In one embodiment, described herein is a method that can include transmitting, by a first network device of a wireless network and comprising a processor, a first timing synchronization signal and first acquisition information of the first network device to a mobile device. The first acquisition information can comprise data indicative of a location of a second timing synchronization signal of a second network device of the wireless network. The method can also include in response to the transmitting of the first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information and based on a transmission received from the mobile device, facilitating, by the first network device, a connection between the mobile device and a radio resource control of the wireless network. In addition, the method can include in response to the mobile device determining the location of the second timing synchronization signal based on the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal, instructing the second network device to transmit, to the mobile device, the second timing synchronization signal and second acquisition information of the second network device. The first network device can be associated with a first radio access technology and the second network device can be associated with a second radio access technology different from the first radio access technology.

According to another embodiment, a system can include a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, facilitate performance of operations. The operations can include transmitting a first signal to a mobile device via a network device of a group of network devices of a wireless network. The first signal can include a first timing synchronization of the network device. The operations can also include transmitting a second signal to the mobile device via the network device. The second signal can include system information of the network device. Further, the second signal can include an indication of a location of synchronization signals of a radio device of the wireless network. Further, the operations can include facilitating establishing a radio resource control connection between the mobile device and the network device in response to transmitting the first signal and transmitting the second signal. The operations can also include transmitting a third signal to the mobile device via the radio device based on a determination that the mobile device is monitoring the synchronization signals of the radio device. The third signal can include a second timing synchronization of the radio device. Further, the operations can include transmitting a fourth signal to the mobile device via the radio device. The fourth signal can include radio device system information for the radio device.

According to yet another embodiment, described herein is a machine-readable storage medium comprising executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, facilitate performance of operations. The operations can include sending a first signal to a mobile device via a network device of network devices of a wireless network. The first signal can include first timing synchronization information of the network device. The operations can also include sending a second signal to the mobile device via the network device. The second signal can include an instruction related to a location of synchronization signals of a radio device. Further, the operations can include facilitating establishing a radio resource control connection between the mobile device and the network device in response to the transmitting the first signal and the transmitting the second signal. The operations can also include transmitting a third signal to the mobile device via the radio device based on a determination that the mobile device is monitoring the synchronization signals of the radio device. The third signal can include a second timing synchronization of the radio device. Further, the operations can include transmitting a fourth signal to the mobile device via the radio device. The fourth signal can include radio device system information for the radio device.

Referring initially toFIG.1illustrated is an example, non-limiting, communications system100for providing signaling for efficient initial access and mobility in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The various aspects provided herein can provide initial access and synchronization for new radio. For example, while a mobile device is in connected mode, an implicit or explicit “pointer” can be used to point the mobile device to the location(s) of the synchronization signals the mobile device should monitor. The implicit or explicit “pointer” can be provided in higher layer signaling (e.g., System Information Block (SIB) signaling and/or Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling), for example. When the mobile device is in connected or idle mode, a prioritized pattern of a subset of possible synchronization signal locations can be provided to mitigate blind search complexity. Further, for a hybrid mode, for example, the mobile device may maintain a very lightweight connection to LTE (e.g., RRC_CONNECTED with long discontinuous reception (DRX)) to obtain assistance information for NR IDLE mode search. Further, LTE configured/trigger NR measurements can be reported on either LTE or NR carriers.

The wireless communications system100can include a mobile device102, a first network device104, and a second network device106. The first network device104and the second network device106can be included in a group of network devices of a wireless network. The first network device104can be associated with a first radio access technology and the second network device106can be associated with a second radio access technology. In accordance with an implementation, the first radio access technology can be LTE and the second radio access technology can be New Radio (NR). For example, the wireless communications system100can support a standalone NR deployment and/or a non-standalone NR deployment. In the case of non-standalone NR deployment, the wireless communications system100can support dual-connectivity, wherein control signaling can be performed over LTE, while the data signaling can be performed over NR. In the case of a standalone NR, a seamless integration can be applied, wherein the devices function through NR.

It is noted that although the various aspects are discussed with respect to LTE and NR, the disclosed aspects are not limited to this implementation and other radio access technologies can be utilized with the disclosed aspects. Further, although only a single mobile device and two network devices are shown and described, the various aspects are not limited to this implementation. Instead, multiple mobile devices may be included in a communications network. Further, more than two network devices may be included in the communications network.

NR can be deployed as a standalone (SA) radio access technology or as a non-standalone (NSA) radio access technology assisted by another radio access technology. For example, LTE is widely deployed and can provide seamless coverage and uninterrupted connectivity. However, NR can provide (at times significantly) increased data rates or new services. However, the deployment of NR can be limited and within hotspots under the footprint of LTE. Scenarios for non-standalone NR deployments include homogenous deployments (e.g., macro only, pico only) and heterogeneous deployments (e.g., macro and pico).FIGS.2-5illustrate the various NR deployments that can be utilized with the disclosed aspects.

FIG.2illustrates an example, non-limiting, wireless communication system200in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The system200can include a wireless communication network serviced by one or more wireless communication network providers. According to an example, the system200can include one or more mobile devices or user equipments or UEs202, illustrated as UE2021, UE2022, through UE202N, where N is an integer. The UEs202can include one more antenna panels that can comprise vertical elements and/or horizontal elements.

As used herein, a UE can be a user equipment device, such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a cellular enabled laptop (e.g., comprising a broadband adapter), a tablet computer, a wearable device, a virtual reality (VR) device, a heads-up display (HUD) device, a smart car, a machine-type communication (MTC) device, and the like. A UE can also comprise IoT devices that can communicate wirelessly. The UE roughly corresponds to the mobile station (MS) in global system for mobile communications (GSM) systems. Thus, a network node204(e.g., network node device) can provide connectivity between the UEs and a wider cellular network and can facilitate wireless communication between the UEs and the wireless communication network (e.g., one or more communication service provider networks206) through the network node204. The UEs202can send and/or receive communication data wirelessly to/from the network node204. The dashed arrow lines from the network node204to the UEs202represent downlink (DL) communications and the solid arrow lines from the UEs202to the network nodes204represent uplink (UL) communications.

The term network node (e.g., network node device) is used herein to refer to any type of network node serving a UE and/or connected to other network nodes, network elements, or another network node from which the UEs can receive a radio signal. In cellular radio access networks (e.g., universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) networks), network nodes can be referred to as base transceiver stations (BTS), radio base station, radio network nodes, base stations, NodeB, eNodeB (e.g., evolved NodeB), and so on. In 5G terminology, the network nodes can be referred to as gNodeB (e.g., gNB) devices. Network nodes can also comprise multiple antennas for performing various transmission operations (e.g., MIMO operations). A network node can comprise a cabinet and other protected enclosures, an antenna mast, and actual antennas. Network nodes can serve several cells, also called sectors, depending on the configuration and type of antenna. Examples of network nodes (e.g., network node204) can include but are not limited to: NodeB devices, base station (BS) devices, access point (AP) devices, and radio access network (RAN) devices. The network nodes can also include multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node devices, comprising: an MSR BS, an eNode B, a network controller, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a relay, a donor node controlling relay, a base transceiver station (BTS), a transmission point, a transmission node, an RRU, an RRH, nodes in distributed antenna system (DAS), and the like.

With continuing reference toFIG.2, the system200can include one or more communication service provider networks206that facilitate providing wireless communication services to various UEs, including UEs202, via the network node204and/or various additional network devices (not shown) included in the one or more communication service provider networks206. The one or more communication service provider networks206can include various types of disparate networks, comprising: cellular networks, femto networks, picocell networks, microcell networks, internet protocol (IP) networks Wi-Fi service networks, broadband service network, enterprise networks, cloud based networks, and the like. For example, in at least one implementation, the system200can be or can comprise a large scale wireless communication network that spans various geographic areas. According to this implementation, the one or more communication service provider networks206can be or can comprise the wireless communication network and/or various additional devices and components of the wireless communication network (e.g., additional network devices and cells, additional UEs, network server devices, etc.).

The network node204can be connected to the one or more communication service provider networks206via one or more backhaul links208. For example, the one or more backhaul links208can comprise wired link components, such as a T1/E1 phone line, a digital subscriber line (DSL) (e.g., either synchronous or asynchronous), an asymmetric DSL (ADSL), an optical fiber backbone, a coaxial cable, and the like. The one or more backhaul links208can also include wireless link components, such as but not limited to, line-of-sight (LOS) or non-LOS links which can include terrestrial air-interfaces or deep space links (e.g., satellite communication links for navigation).

FIG.3illustrates an example, non-limiting block diagram representation of a deployment scenario for a heterogeneous network300for a non-standalone new radio deployment in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The deployment scenario can include an LTE on a macro infrastructure and a NR on a pico infrastructure. For example, a three sector wireless communications network is illustrated as three sectors, namely, a first sector3021, a second sector3022, and a third sector3023. LTE304can be deployed as large coverage (or macro coverage) on the first sector3021, the second sector3022, and the third sector3023.

Further, for heavy mobility network traffic situations, NR can be deployed on smaller sites. In such a manner, wide area coverage can be provided via NR hot spots. For example, illustrated in the first sector3021is a first NR hot spot3061, in the second sector3022can be a second NR hot spot3062, and in the third sector3023can be a third NR hot spot3063. It is noted that although only three sectors, each having a single NR hot spot are shown and described, the disclosed aspects can be utilized with more than three sectors and/or more than one NR hot spot in each sector. Further, the network is referred to as a heterogeneous network300because both a macro infrastructure and a pico infrastructure are included in the network.

FIG.4illustrates another example, non-limiting block diagram representation of a deployment scenario for a homogeneous network400for a non-standalone new radio deployment in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The deployment scenario can include LTE on a macro infrastructure and NR on macro infrastructure. Similar to the above figure,FIG.4illustrates a three sector wireless communications network, namely, a first sector4021, a second sector4022, and a third sector4023. LTE404can be deployed as large coverage (or macro coverage) on the first sector4021, the second sector4022, and the third sector4023. Further, NR4061,4062can be deployed on the macro network (e.g., on the first sector4021, the second sector4022, and the third sector4023). It is noted that although only three sectors are illustrated, the homogeneous network400can include more than three sectors.

Deploying both LTE404and NR4061,4062on the macro network can be useful for facilitating different frequency bands. Further, since NR4061,4062can provide new services for mobile devices, additional network efficiencies can be realized by deploying both LTE404and NR4061,4062on the macro network. Further, the network is referred to as a homogeneous network400because both LTE and NR are deployed on a macro network.

FIG.5illustrates another example, non-limiting block diagram representation of a deployment scenario for another homogeneous network500for a non-standalone new radio deployment in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The deployment scenario can include LTE on a pico infrastructure and NR on a pico infrastructure. Similar to the above figures, illustrated is a three sector wireless communications network, namely, a first sector5021, a second sector5022, and a third sector5023. It is noted that although only three sectors are illustrated, the homogeneous network500can include more than three sectors.

As illustrated, LTE5041and NR5061can be deployed in the first sector5021; LTE5042and NR5062can be deployed in the second sector5022; and LTE5043and NR5063can be deployed in the third sector5023. Deploying both LTE and NR within the pico infrastructure can be useful for dense hot spots and/or for indoor deployment where LTE5041,5042,5043can provide a control plane, while NR5061,5062,5063provides data service. Further, the network is referred to as a homogeneous network500because both LTE and NR are deployed on a pico network.

FIG.6illustrates an example, non-limiting schematic block diagram of a system600for a non-standalone new radio in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. According to various implementations, different mechanisms for supporting a NR deployment using another radio access technology (RAT), such as LTE for example, can be supported. Such support can include dual connectivity, carrier aggregation, or tight-interworking, for example.

The system600can include an LTE device602and an NR device604. Also included in the system600can be an evolved core packet or EPC606. The EPC606can be the core network that the LTE device602connects to in order to obtain authentication and internet access. The system can also include user equipment (UE), such as first UE608and second UE610.

As illustrated, the first UE608can comprise an LTE radio612, which can allow communication with the LTE device602through an LTE compliant protocol. For example, the LTE compliant protocol can be a S1 C-Plane614(denoted by the dashed line between the LTE radio612and the LTE device602) and a S1 U-Plane616(denoted by the solid line between the LTE radio612and the LTE device602). The S1 C-Plane614can be a sensor control plane and the S1 U-Plane616can be a data plane. Accordingly, the first UE608can communicate with the EPC606. In some implementations, the first UE608can be a legacy UE.

In an alternative implementation, the second UE610can include an LTE radio618and a NR radio620. The LTE radio616can facilitate communicate with the LTE device602through an LTE compliant protocol, such as a S1 C-Plane622(denoted by the dashed line between the LTE radio618and the LTE device602) and a S1 U-Plane624(denoted by the solid line between the LTE radio617and the LTE device602). The S1 C-Plane622can be the sensor control plane and the S1 U-Plane624can be the data plane. Further, the second UE610can communicate with the NR device604using the NR radio622over a NR data plane626, which can be a NG1-U (NG2) plane (or an NG1-U (WG3) plane). Further, the NR device604can communicate with the LTE device602over a NR data plane, which can be a NG1-U (NG2) plane or an NG1-U (WG3) plane, as denoted by line628. Further, the LTE device602can communicate with the EPC through an LTE compliant protocol. For example, the LTE compliant protocol can be a S1 C-Plane630(denoted by the dashed line between the LTE device602and the EPC606) and a S1 U-Plane632(denoted by the solid line between the LTE device602and the EPC606).

As illustrated, the first UE608(e.g., the legacy UE) can only communicate through LTE since the first UE608includes only an LTE radio612. However, the second UE610can communicate through LTE and/or through NR since the second UE610includes both an LTE radio618and an NR radio620. Accordingly, the second UE610comprises dual connectivity between NR and LTE. Further, there can be bearer aggregation in a random access network (RAN).

It is noted thatFIG.6illustrates a situation with single connectivity between the NR device604and the NR radio620where control plane function are sent via LTE (e.g., between the LTE radio618and the LTE device602). However, the disclosed aspects are not limited to this implementation. Instead, control plane functions can be sent through NR (e.g., between the NR radio620and the NR device604).

With continuing reference toFIG.1, the mobile device102can include a memory108operatively connected to a processor110. The memory108can store protocols associated with new radio initial access and mobility as discussed herein. Further, the memory108can facilitate action to control communication between the mobile device102, the first network device104, and/or the second network device106, such that the wireless communications system100can employ stored protocols and/or algorithms to achieve improved communications in a wireless network as described herein.

The mobile device102can also include a communication component112. For example, the communication component112can be a transmitter/receiver configured to transmit and/or receive data from the first network device104, the second network device106, other network devices, and/or other mobile devices. Through the communication component112, the mobile device102can concurrently transmit and receive data, the mobile device102can transmit and receive data at different times, or combinations thereof.

Further, the first network device104can include a memory114operatively connected to a processor116and the second network device106can include a memory118operatively connected to a processor120. In addition, the first network device104and the second network device106can include respective transmitter/receivers122,124. The respective transmitter/receivers122,124can facilitate communication between each other, the mobile device102, other network devices, and/or other mobile devices.

In an example, the communication component112can receive from the first network device104(e.g., the transmitter/receiver122) a first timing synchronization signal and first acquisition information. The first acquisition information can comprise data indicative of a location of a second timing synchronization signal of the second network device106. For example, LTE provides a fixed time and frequency location of its synchronization signals and, therefore, the mobile device102is aware of the location. However, NR can cover a diverse set of deployment scenarios that can move the synchronization signals in time and frequency among different locations. When NR is coexisting on LTE, the LTE locations, which cannot be moved, should be avoided. The various aspects discussed herein provide for avoidance of the LTE locations while, at substantially the same time, determining the NR locations.

FIG.7illustrates an example, non-limiting new radio synchronization signal design for when a radio access technology used for new radio assistance is activated and when the radio access technology is deactivated in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. In an example, the radio access technology used for new radio assistance can be LTE.

LTE specifies a fixed location of the signals used for initial access and wideband mobility measurement reference signals, which are cell-specific (CRS). When the LTE is active (e.g., LTE SCell On), as indicated at702, the fixed location is illustrated by location704. The signals used for initial access can include PSS/SSS/PBCH. However, for NR is can be beneficial to provide flexibility/configurability of the synchronization signals and broadcast channels used for initial access.

A use case for providing the flexibility can be in the case of LTE and NR coexisting on the same frequency band. When LTE is active (as a SCell), illustrated at702, the LTE PSS/SSS/CRS are transmitted in the center Physical Resource Blocks (PRBs). For example, the LTE PSS/SSS/CRS can be transmitted in the center six PRBs with a periodicity of 5 ms (for some UEs) or 160 ms (for other UEs). The center PRBs should be avoided by NR transmission706,708to prevent collisions and potential performance impact on legacy LTE UEs (e.g., first UE608ofFIG.6). When the LTE SCell is off, as illustrated at710, the NR transmission712can occupy the entire frequency band.

It is noted that the various aspects discussed herein can facilitate LTE-assisted initial access, which can also support the operation of Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) for NR. In order to allow quick deployment of NR cells, some transmission points can support relaying functionality, which can be operated as a multi-hop, multi-connectivity backhaul network. In order to support the discovery, connection establishment, synchronization, and connection management, backhaul nodes can utilize procedures similar to UEs for performing initial access and mobility. However, the backhaul nodes should use independent parameter configurations for access/backhaul taking into account topology-based (e.g., hop-order) half-duplex constraints.

For example, a backhaul node can perform initial access, resource configuration, and connection management for IAB by utilizing LTE-assistance signaling for configuration of the NR initial access and radio resource management (RRM) parameters specific for backhaul operation in addition to other parameters which can be utilized by backhaul nodes for resource coordination based on hop order or traffic load (e.g., Time Division Duplex (TDD) configuration per hop order, reserved/flexible resource indication, or topology related (e.g., hop order). In addition IAB nodes can directly utilize LTE for performing control plane transmissions (e.g., initial access and connection establishment) while data plane transmissions can be performed on NR. This can be beneficial because backhaul nodes utilizing LTE on another carrier would not be subject to the same half-duplex constraints which could be present on the NR carrier.

Thus, the various aspects provided herein can facilitate determining the location of the NR signals, which can be facilitated by using LTE assisted signaling. The LTE assisted signaling can take into account whether the initial access and NR parameters are for backhaul and can signal them to the nodes. The LTE assisted signaling can also allow the backhaul nodes to directly connect to LTE to provide initial configuration and then transition the data transitions over NR.

With reference again toFIG.1, the transmitter/receiver122can provide, to the mobile device102, location information related to the signals for the second network device106. Based on this information, a location determiner component126of the mobile device102can perform one or more searches to discover the location of the NR signals. The search can include a center-to-edge search, a bandwidth plus increment search, or another type of search.

According to an implementation, time/frequency configuration of NR synchronization signals/channels can be provided. The level of flexibility and configurability (e.g., network, cell, or UE-specific) can depend on the use case. Further, the flexibility and configurability should support LTE-NR coexistence use case (e.g., NR synchronization signals/channels are located at least outside of center6PRBs of LTE carrier). In the case of standalone NR deployment, a large number of possible locations for the signals may cause unacceptable complexity at the UE which can perform blind decoding, and a subset of possible locations can be predefined (per frequency band or based on carrier bandwidth). However if assistance information can be provided in the case of non-standalone NR deployment, UE complexity is not a large concern and the number of positions could be left open for forward compatibility. In addition the configuration on the NR initial access signals can be statically configured or fixed for a given NR carrier (e.g., outside of LTE center bandwidth (e.g., 6 PRBs). Alternatively, the configuration on the NR initial access signals can include the indication to switch between multiple configured locations (e.g., center and edge of NR bandwidth) based on a trigger (e.g., whether the LTE SCell is On or OFF).

As mentioned, the first network device104can provide assistance information for NR initial access. For example, the mobile device102can be provided data indicative of the location of the NR signals in time or frequency, or both time and frequency. In an example, the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal can comprise another location of a center frequency of the second network device106and an offset value. The offset value can be based on a bandwidth configuration for the second timing synchronization signal.

According to some implementations, the transmitter/receiver122can transmit an explicit signal to the mobile device102. The explicit signal can comprise the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal and can be included in the first acquisition information. The explicit signal can be conveyed as a broadcast, cell-specific, or UE-specific indication. In another implementation, the transmitter/receiver122can transmit an implicit signal to the mobile device102. The implicit signal can be based on a time location and a frequency location of a reference signal. In an alternative implementation, the transmitter/receiver122can transmit an implicit signal to the mobile device. The implicit signal can be based on a discovery reference signal periodicity adaptation of the first network device104. Further to this example, a first time periodicity of the first network device104can indicate a second time periodicity of the second network device106.

When the NR synchronization frequency is not located in the center (e.g., LTE SCell is off) techniques and solutions that can reduce the complexity and system acquisition time at the UE can be supported based on assistance information from the LTE. For a LTE RRC_Connected UE, higher layer signaling (SIB/RRC signaling) can be used to point the UE to the location(s) of the NR synchronization signals that the UE should monitor.

Granularity of the indication can be relative or absolute. For the relative indication, the first network device104can provide a center frequency of NR plus an offset value to the location of the synchronization signals. In an example, the frequency-domain granularity of the offset value may be at the level of subcarrier, PRB, or sub-band. In another example, the time-domain granularity of the offset value may be at the level of a symbol, slot, or subframe. For the absolute indication, the first network device104can provide a location of synchronization (time and frequency), the UE can later be updated with the NR center frequency bandwidth if different after connecting to the NR carrier. According to some implementations, the indication can be use-case specific (e.g., Sidelink/mMTC/IAB) indication/offsets and UE-specific definition of system/synchronization bandwidth.

The first network device104can provide the signal using one or more signaling methods, such as explicit signaling or implicit signaling. For example, for explicit signaling, the first network device104can provide a new LTE SIB in case of broadcast signaling or DC MeNB RRC message in case of UE-specific signaling or a NR SIB in case of broadcast signaling or CA RRC message in case of UE-specific signaling. For implicit signaling, the first network device104can provide the signaling based on time/frequency location of a given reference signal (e.g., LTE sync signal location) or indication of presence of LTE sync signals or if timing can be used from a primary carrier. In some implementations, the implicit signaling by the first network device104can also be based on detection of the LTE DRS periodicity adaptation (e.g., 20→40→80→20 ms indicates the corresponding NR sync resource pattern) or used for NR on unlicensed spectrum coexisting with LAA.

According to some implementations, the configuration can also be provided in the handover message for inter-frequency handover between LTE and NR. The handover message can be provided for LTE-assisted (e.g., non-standalone NR) or for standalone NR according to the various aspects provided herein.

Based on the received information, a connection can be established between the mobile device102and a radio resource control of the wireless network. The radio resource control connection can include LTE/NR measurement configuration. In an example, the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal transmitted to the mobile device102can comprise a time location and a frequency location of the second timing synchronization signal. Further to this example, the transmitter/receiver122can transmit a center frequency bandwidth of the second network device106based on a determination that the center frequency bandwidth changed after establishment of a connection between the mobile device102and the second network device106.

Further, at about the same time as the mobile device102determines the location of the second timing synchronization signal based on the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal, the second network device106can transmit, to the mobile device102, the second timing synchronization signal and second acquisition information of the second network device106. According to some implementations, measurements reports can be transmitted to the first network device104and/or the second network device106.

The respective memories108,114,118can store respective protocols associated with new radio initial access and mobility, taking action to control communication between the mobile device102, the first network device104, and/or the second network device106, such that the wireless communications system100can employ stored protocols and/or algorithms to achieve improved communications in a wireless network as described herein. It should be appreciated that data store (e.g., memories) components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way of example and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of example and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). Memory of the disclosed aspects are intended to comprise, without being limited to, these and other suitable types of memory.

The respective processors110,116,120can facilitate respective analysis of information related to new radio initial access and mobility in a communication network. The processors110,116,120can be processors dedicated to analyzing and/or generating information received, a processor that controls one or more components of the wireless communications system100, and/or a processor that both analyzes and generates information received and controls one or more components of the wireless communications system100.

FIG.8illustrates a flow diagram of an example, non-limiting computer-implemented method800for LTE-assisted initial access procedures for explicit signaling in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Illustrated are a UE802, a first network device804(e.g., an eNB (LTE) Freq. 1), and a second network device806(e.g., a gNB (NR) Freq. 2).

At808, the first network device804transmits synchronization signals to the UE802. The synchronization signals can include PSS/SSS (DRS). The first network device804can transmit to the UE802, at810LTE SIB and NR assistance SIB. Thus, at812, the UE802performs LTE timing synchronization and system information acquisition.

The UE802and the first network device804can communicate to facilitate RRC connection establishment, at814. The communication can include LTE/NR measurement configuration. As illustrated, the UE802can obtain, at816, NR synchronization location and offset.

The second network device806, at818, can transmit to the UE802synchronization signals, such as NR PSS/SSS. Further, the second network device806can transmit to the UE802NR PBCH/BRS, at820. Thus, at822, the UE802can perform NR timing synchronization and system information acquisition.

At illustrated, at824, the UE802can prepare LTE and/or NR measurements and reports. Thus, at826, the UE802can transmit to the first network device804measurement reports for both LTE and NR. Further, the UE802, at828, can transmit to the second network device806, an NR measurement report.

Assistance information for NR initial access can be provided. For example, when the NR synchronization frequency is not located in the center, techniques and solutions that can reduce the complexity and system acquisition time at the UE can be supported based on assistance information from LTE.

For the LTE RRC_IDLE UE a blind sequential search should not be relied upon. Instead, techniques such as prioritized search space for the sync signal can be useful. Therefore, if the UE does not detect the signal in the center (which is the highest priority search space), the UE can look through other predetermined search spaces each with a decreasing order of priority. In this way, some planning in action is taken, the blind search algorithm for the sync signal can lead to much faster system acquisition.

For example,FIG.9illustrates an example, non-limiting LTE-assisted synchronization search pattern that provides a center-to-edge pattern indication900in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Frequency902is illustrated along the vertical axis. The UE can receive an indication to start with a first location904(e.g., NR SS location #1) in order to determine if NR is located on that frequency cell. If not found at the first location904, the UE is instructed to move to an edge frequency. Therefore, the UE moves the search, indicated by arrow906, to a second location908(e.g., NR SS location #2), which can be located at a first edge of the frequency. If NR is not discovered at the second location908, according to the instructions received, UE next moves the search, indicated by arrow910, and searches a third location912(e.g., NR SS location #3), which can be located at a second edge of the frequency902. If NR is not found at the third location912, the UE can move the search area, as indicated by arrow914, to a fourth location916(e.g., NR SS location #4) according to the instructions received. Further, if NR is not found at the fourth location, the UE can move the search, indicated by arrow918, to a fifth location920(e.g., NR SS location #5). Although five locations are shown and described, in various implementations fewer or more search locations can be utilized.

According to some implementations, for the LTE RRC_IDLE UE, pattern/priority for IDLE search can be provided by SIB or RRC when UE is connected and stored for future searches (single location is a special case of the pattern with only 1 location) the size of the pattern would be network specific (e.g., 1, 2, or 4 etc. values). According to another implementation, the UE can use pre-computed (e.g., from prior searches) information to reduce search space. As an example pattern: start from center and search locations based on offsets of the BW/2 of the sync signal+X/2 where X is configurable by the network or a function of the carrier Band Width (BW).

For example,FIG.10illustrates an example, non-limiting LTE-assisted synchronization search pattern that provides a bandwidth plus increment pattern1000in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Frequency1002is illustrated along the vertical axis. The UE can begin the search at a first location1004(e.g., NR SS location #1). If the NR signal is not found, the UE can move the search to a second location1006(e.g., NR SS location #2). The amount of movement1008between the first location1004and the second location1006can be determined, for example, by the equation (BW+X)/2, as discussed above. If the NR signal is not found at the second location1006, the UE can move the search to a third location1010(e.g., NR SS location #3). The amount of movement1012between the second location1006and the third location1010can be determined based on the equation (BW+X), for example. Further, if the NR signal is not found at the third location1010, the UE can search a fourth location1014and the position of the fourth location1014(e.g., the amount to move1016) can be determined by the equation 2(BW+X), for example.

In some implementations, a UE may follow a two-stage process (first attempt to detect locations based on the prioritized sweep and if that fails, fall back on worst case blind search). It is noted that the above can also apply in the case of RRC_CONNECTED UEs. According to a hybrid approach, a UE can maintain a very lightweight connection to LTE (e.g., RRC_CONNECTED with long DRX) to get assistance info for NR IDLE mode search.

FIG.11illustrates an example, non-limiting new radio synchronization signal design for LTE-configured NR RRM measurement bandwidth in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Illustrated at1102is a pattern when LTE is active; at1104is a pattern when LTE is not active.

In order to dynamically turn on/off part of the NR carrier, the system bandwidth should be capable of being reconfigurable, which should also apply to the measurement bandwidth used by the UE. In order to ensure that measurements are not performed over the part of the NR carrier that is turned off, semi-static (e.g., RRC configured) signaling or L1 signaling on the LTE carrier could be utilized for example via a measurement restriction indication. In another example, the signaling could be implementation based (e.g., network discards invalid subband measurements). In a further example, the signaling could be an indication of the coefficients used for L3 RRM measurement filtering.

According to an implementation, the measurement restriction indication can include time slot or frequency subband patterns and/or number of ports in case of multi-antenna RRM. Further to this implementation, patterns can be configured semi-statically and a UE can be indicated to switch between the patterns using higher layer or dynamic L1 signaling. In another example, default pattern and restricted pattern can be switched at the UE based on implicit detection of a signal (e.g., LTE or NR sync signal).

As illustrated inFIG.11, a first measurement bandwidth pattern1106is indicated at the NR transmissions1108,1110(where the PRB1112is a center location). Also illustrated is a second measurement bandwidth pattern1114that comprises a NR transmission1116. Further, the pattern configuration can be indicated by LTE-assistance information.

According to some implementations, LTE-triggered NR measurement can be provided. Aperiodic NR RRM measurements (UE-specific) could also be used for this purpose and can be supported as part of LTE-assisted NR initial access/mobility. For example, configuration of NR time/frequency resources and measurement reports via LTE (RRC) which are independent of those configured for LTE can be provided. Further, on-demand report triggering (higher layer or physical layer signaling) can be provided. In addition, sending NR report on LTE (as part of a new RRM measurement report format) can be provided in accordance with the various aspects provided herein.

In view of exemplary systems shown and described above, methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter, will be better appreciated with reference to various flow charts. While, for purposes of simplicity of explanation, methodologies are shown and described as a series of blocks, it is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter is not limited by the number or order of blocks, as some blocks may occur in different orders and/or at substantially the same time with other blocks from what is depicted and described herein. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks may be required to implement methodologies described herein. It is to be appreciated that functionality associated with blocks may be implemented by software, hardware, a combination thereof or any other suitable means (e.g., device, system, process, component). Additionally, it should be further appreciated that methodologies disclosed throughout this specification are capable of being stored on an article of manufacture to facilitate transporting and transferring such methodologies to various devices. Those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that a methodology could alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or events, such as in a state diagram.

FIG.12illustrates an example, non-limiting method1200for initial access and mobility in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. The method1200starts at1202when a first timing synchronization signal and first acquisition information are transmitted to a mobile device. The first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information can be transmitted by a LTE device. Further, the first acquisition information can comprise data indicative of a location of a second timing synchronization signal of a NR device of the wireless network.

In response to transmitting the first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information and based on a transmission received from the mobile device, at1204, a connection between the mobile device and a radio resource control of the wireless network is established. Further, at1206, in response to the mobile device determining the location of the second timing synchronization signal based on the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal, the NR device can transmit, to the mobile device, the second timing synchronization signal and second acquisition information of the NR device.

According to an implementation, the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal transmitted, at1202, can comprise a time location and a frequency location of the second timing synchronization signal. Further to this implementation, the LTE device can transmit a center frequency bandwidth of the NR device based on a determination that the center frequency bandwidth changed after establishment of the connection between the mobile device and the second network device.

According to another implementation, the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal transmitted, at1202, can comprise another location of a center frequency of the second network device and an offset value. Further to this implementation, the offset value can be based on bandwidth availability for the second timing synchronization signal.

In some aspects, transmitting the first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information, at1202, can include transmitting an explicit signal to the mobile device. The explicit signal can comprise the data indicative of the location of the second timing synchronization signal and can be included in the first acquisition information.

In an alternative aspect, transmitting the first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information, at1202, can include transmitting an implicit signal to the mobile device. The implicit signal can be based on a time location and a frequency location of a reference signal. In another aspect, transmitting the first timing synchronization signal and the first acquisition information, at1202, can include transmitting an implicit signal to the mobile device. The implicit signal can be based on a discovery reference signal periodicity adaptation of the first network device. Further to this aspect, a first time periodicity of the LTE device can indicate a second time periodicity of the NR device.

FIG.13illustrates an example, non-limiting method1300for providing assistance for NR initial access and mobility in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. At1302, a first signal is transmitted to a mobile device via a network device of a group of network devices of a wireless network. The first signal can comprise a first timing synchronization of the network device.

Further, at1304, a second signal can be transmitted to the mobile device via the network device. The second signal can comprise system information of the network device. Further, the second signal can comprise an indication of a location of synchronization signals of a radio device of the wireless network. According to an implementation, transmitting the second signal can comprise transmitting a location of a center frequency of the radio device and an offset value relative to the center frequency. Further to this implementation, the offset value can be selected based on a bandwidth availability of the synchronization signals of the radio device. According to another implementation, transmitting the second signal can comprise transmitting an implicit signal to the mobile device. The implicit signal can be based on a discovery reference signal periodicity adaptation of the network device. Further, a time periodicity of the network device can refer to another time periodicity of the radio device.

The method1300continues at1306when a radio resource control connection is established between the mobile device and the network device in response to transmitting the first signal and transmitting the second signal. The mobile device can utilize the radio resource control connection for control signaling and the radio device for data transmission.

At1308, a third signal can be transmitted to the mobile device via the radio device based on a determination that the mobile device is monitoring the synchronization signals of the radio device. The third signal can comprise a second timing synchronization of the radio device. For example, the mobile device can search for the location of the synchronization signals based on the information received, and therefore, can monitor the synchronization signals of the radio device. Further, at1310, a fourth signal can be transmitted to the mobile device via the radio device. The fourth signal can comprise radio device system information for the radio device.

Referring now toFIG.14, illustrated is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary end-user device such as a mobile device or handset1400capable of connecting to a network in accordance with some embodiments described herein. Although a mobile handset is illustrated herein, it will be understood that other devices can be a mobile device, and that the mobile handset is merely illustrated to provide context for the embodiments of the various embodiments described herein. The following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of an example of a suitable environment in which the various embodiments can be implemented. While the description includes a general context of computer-executable instructions embodied on a machine-readable storage medium, those skilled in the art will recognize that the innovation also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

Generally, applications (e.g., program modules) can include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methods described herein can be practiced with other system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

A computing device can typically include a variety of machine-readable media. Machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media can comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can include volatile and/or non-volatile media, removable and/or non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media can include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD ROM, digital video disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer.

Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

The handset includes a processor1402for controlling and processing all onboard operations and functions. A memory1404interfaces to the processor1402for storage of data and one or more applications1406(e.g., a video player software, user feedback component software, etc.). Other applications can include voice recognition of predetermined voice commands that facilitate initiation of the user feedback signals. The applications1406can be stored in the memory1404and/or in a firmware1408, and executed by the processor1402from either or both the memory1404or/and the firmware1408. The firmware1408can also store startup code for execution in initializing the handset1400. A communications component1410interfaces to the processor1402to facilitate wired/wireless communication with external systems, e.g., cellular networks, VoIP networks, and so on. Here, the communications component1410can also include a suitable cellular transceiver1411(e.g., a GSM transceiver) and/or an unlicensed transceiver1413(e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMax) for corresponding signal communications. The handset1400can be a device such as a cellular telephone, a PDA with mobile communications capabilities, and messaging-centric devices. The communications component1410also facilitates communications reception from terrestrial radio networks (e.g., broadcast), digital satellite radio networks, and Internet-based radio services networks.

The handset1400includes a display1412for displaying text, images, video, telephony functions (e.g., a Caller ID function), setup functions, and for user input. For example, the display1412can also be referred to as a “screen” that can accommodate the presentation of multimedia content (e.g., music metadata, messages, wallpaper, graphics, etc.). The display1412can also display videos and can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A serial I/O interface1414is provided in communication with the processor1402to facilitate wired and/or wireless serial communications (e.g., USB, and/or IEEE 1394) through a hardwire connection, and other serial input devices (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, and mouse). This supports updating and troubleshooting the handset1400, for example. Audio capabilities are provided with an audio I/O component1416, which can include a speaker for the output of audio signals related to, for example, indication that the user pressed the proper key or key combination to initiate the user feedback signal. The audio I/O component1416also facilitates the input of audio signals through a microphone to record data and/or telephony voice data, and for inputting voice signals for telephone conversations.

The handset1400can include a slot interface1418for accommodating a SIC (Subscriber Identity Component) in the form factor of a card Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or universal SIM1420, and interfacing the SIM card1420with the processor1402. However, it is to be appreciated that the SIM card1420can be manufactured into the handset1400, and updated by downloading data and software.

The handset1400can process IP data traffic through the communications component1410to accommodate IP traffic from an IP network such as, for example, the Internet, a corporate intranet, a home network, a person area network, etc., through an ISP or broadband cable provider. Thus, VoIP traffic can be utilized by the handset1400and IP-based multimedia content can be received in either an encoded or decoded format.

A video processing component1422(e.g., a camera) can be provided for decoding encoded multimedia content. The video processing component1422can aid in facilitating the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The handset1400also includes a power source1424in the form of batteries and/or an AC power subsystem, which power source1424can interface to an external power system or charging equipment (not shown) by a power I/O component1426.

The handset1400can also include a video component1430for processing video content received and, for recording and transmitting video content. For example, the video component1430can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A location tracking component1432facilitates geographically locating the handset1400. As described hereinabove, this can occur when the user initiates the feedback signal automatically or manually. A user input component1434facilitates the user initiating the quality feedback signal. The user input component1434can also facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The user input component1434can include such conventional input device technologies such as a keypad, keyboard, mouse, stylus pen, and/or touch screen, for example.

Referring again to the applications1406, a hysteresis component1436facilitates the analysis and processing of hysteresis data, which is utilized to determine when to associate with the access point. A software trigger component1438can be provided that facilitates triggering of the hysteresis component1436when the Wi-Fi transceiver1413detects the beacon of the access point. A SIP client1440enables the handset1400to support SIP protocols and register the subscriber with the SIP registrar server. The applications1406can also include a client1442that provides at least the capability of discovery, play and store of multimedia content, for example, music.

The handset1400, as indicated above related to the communications component1410, includes an indoor network radio transceiver1413(e.g., Wi-Fi transceiver). This function supports the indoor radio link, such as IEEE 802.11, for the dual-mode GSM handset1400. The handset1400can accommodate at least satellite radio services through a handset that can combine wireless voice and digital radio chipsets into a single handheld device.

Referring now toFIG.15, there is illustrated a block diagram of a computer1500operable to execute a system architecture that facilitates establishing a transaction between an entity and a third party. The computer1500can provide networking and communication capabilities between a wired or wireless communication network and a server (e.g., Microsoft server) and/or communication device. In order to provide additional context for various aspects thereof,FIG.15and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the various aspects of the innovation can be implemented to facilitate the establishment of a transaction between an entity and a third party. While the description above is in the general context of computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the innovation also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

Generally, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methods can be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

The illustrated aspects of the innovation can also be practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

Computing devices typically include a variety of media, which can include computer-readable storage media or communications media, which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows.

Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data, or unstructured data. Computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium.

Communications media can embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructured data in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery or transport media. The term “modulated data signal” or signals refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in one or more signals. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media include wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media.

With reference toFIG.15, implementing various aspects described herein with regards to the end-user device can include a computer1500, the computer1500including a processing unit1504, a system memory1506and a system bus1508. The system bus1508couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory1506to the processing unit1504. The processing unit1504can be any of various commercially available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multi processor architectures can also be employed as the processing unit1504.

The system bus1508can be any of several types of bus structure that can further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. The system memory1506includes read-only memory (ROM)1527and random access memory (RAM)1512. A basic input/output system (BIOS) is stored in a non-volatile memory1527such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer1500, such as during start-up. The RAM1512can also include a high-speed RAM such as static RAM for caching data.

The computer1500further includes an internal hard disk drive (HDD)1514(e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive1514can also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD)1516, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette1518) and an optical disk drive1520, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk1522or, to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). The hard disk drive1514, magnetic disk drive1516and optical disk drive1520can be connected to the system bus1508by a hard disk drive interface1524, a magnetic disk drive interface1526and an optical drive interface1528, respectively. The interface1524for external drive implementations includes at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus (USB) and IEEE 1394 interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies are within contemplation of the subject innovation.

The drives and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, and so forth. For the computer1500the drives and media accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digital format. Although the description of computer-readable media above refers to a HDD, a removable magnetic diskette, and a removable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of media which are readable by a computer1500, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also be used in the exemplary operating environment, and further, that any such media can contain computer-executable instructions for performing the methods of the disclosed innovation.

A number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM1512, including an operating system1530, one or more application programs1532, other program modules1534and program data1536. All or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also be cached in the RAM1512. It is to be appreciated that the innovation can be implemented with various commercially available operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

A user can enter commands and information into the computer1500through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard1538and a pointing device, such as a mouse1540. Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen, or the like. These and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit1504through an input device interface1542that is coupled to the system bus1508, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, an IEEE 1394 serial port, a game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc.

A monitor1544or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus1508through an interface, such as a video adapter1546. In addition to the monitor1544, a computer1500typically includes other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc.

The computer1500can operate in a networked environment using logical connections by wired and/or wireless communications to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s)1548. The remote computer(s)1548can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainment device, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to the computer, although, for purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device1550is illustrated. The logical connections depicted include wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN)1552and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN)1554. Such LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all of which may connect to a global communications network, e.g., the Internet.

When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer1500is connected to the local network1552through a wired and/or wireless communication network interface or adapter1556. The adapter1556may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN1552, which may also include a wireless access point disposed thereon for communicating with the wireless adapter1556.

When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer1500can include a modem1558, or is connected to a communications server on the WAN1554, or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN1554, such as by way of the Internet. The modem1558, which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device, is connected to the system bus1508through the input device interface1542. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer, or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device1550. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used.

The computer is operable to communicate with any wireless devices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication, e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portable data assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment or location associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk, news stand, restroom), and telephone. This includes at least Wi-Fi and Bluetooth™ wireless technologies. Thus, the communication can be a predefined structure as with a conventional network or simply an ad hoc communication between at least two devices.

Wi-Fi, or Wireless Fidelity, allows connection to the Internet from a couch at home, in a hotel room, or a conference room at work, without wires. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enables such devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out; anywhere within the range of a base station. Wi-Fi networks use radio technologies called IEEE 802.11 (a, b, g, etc.) to provide secure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. A Wi-Fi network can be used to connect computers to each other, to the Internet, and to wired networks (which use IEEE 802.3 or Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operate in the unlicensed 2.4 and 5 GHz radio bands, at an 11 Mbps (802.11a) or 54 Mbps (802.11b) data rate, for example, or with products that contain both bands (dual band), so the networks can provide real-world performance similar to the basic 10BaseT wired Ethernet networks used in many offices.

An aspect of 5G, which differentiates from previous 4G systems, is the use of NR. NR architecture can be designed to support multiple deployment cases for independent configuration of resources used for RACH procedures. Since the NR can provide additional services than those provided by LTE, efficiencies can be generated by leveraging the pros and cons of LTE and NR to facilitate the interplay between LTE and NR, as discussed herein.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment,” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment,” “in one aspect,” or “in an embodiment,” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

As utilized herein, terms “component,” “system,” “interface,” and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, hardware, software (e.g., in execution), and/or firmware. For example, a component can be a processor, a process running on a processor, an object, an executable, a program, a storage device, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components can reside within a process, and a component can be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers.

Further, these components can execute from various machine-readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components can communicate via local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network, e.g., the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network, etc. with other systems via the signal).

As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry; the electric or electronic circuitry can be operated by a software application or a firmware application executed by one or more processors; the one or more processors can be internal or external to the apparatus and can execute at least a part of the software or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts; the electronic components can include one or more processors therein to execute software and/or firmware that confer(s), at least in part, the functionality of the electronic components. In an aspect, a component can emulate an electronic component via a virtual machine, e.g., within a cloud computing system.

The words “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive—in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word—without precluding any additional or other elements.

As used herein, the term “infer” or “inference” refers generally to the process of reasoning about, or inferring states of, the system, environment, user, and/or intent from a set of observations as captured via events and/or data. Captured data and events can include user data, device data, environment data, data from sensors, sensor data, application data, implicit data, explicit data, etc. Inference can be employed to identify a specific context or action, or can generate a probability distribution over states of interest based on a consideration of data and events, for example.

Inference can also refer to techniques employed for composing higher-level events from a set of events and/or data. Such inference results in the construction of new events or actions from a set of observed events and/or stored event data, whether the events are correlated in close temporal proximity, and whether the events and data come from one or several event and data sources. Various classification schemes and/or systems (e.g., support vector machines, neural networks, expert systems, Bayesian belief networks, fuzzy logic, and data fusion engines) can be employed in connection with performing automatic and/or inferred action in connection with the disclosed subject matter.

In addition, the disclosed subject matter can be implemented as a method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming and/or engineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosed subject matter. The term “article of manufacture” as used herein is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device, machine-readable device, computer-readable carrier, computer-readable media, or machine-readable media. For example, computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, a magnetic storage device, e.g., hard disk; floppy disk; magnetic strip(s); an optical disk (e.g., compact disk (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), a Blu-ray Disc™ (BD)); a smart card; a flash memory device (e.g., card, stick, key drive); and/or a virtual device that emulates a storage device and/or any of the above computer-readable media.

The above description of illustrated embodiments of the subject disclosure, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. While specific embodiments and examples are described herein for illustrative purposes, various modifications are possible that are considered within the scope of such embodiments and examples, as those skilled in the relevant art can recognize.

In this regard, while the subject matter has been described herein in connection with various embodiments and corresponding FIGs, where applicable, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments can be used or modifications and additions can be made to the described embodiments for performing the same, similar, alternative, or substitute function of the disclosed subject matter without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims below.