WO2026009069A1 - 6g beam alignment using horizontal ssb beams - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus configured to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

Description

DESCRIPTION

6G BEAM ALIGNMENT USING HORIZONTAL SSB BEAMS

RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to GB Application No. 2409684.4 filed July 4, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The example and non-limiting embodiments relate generally to beam alignment and, more particularly, to beam alignment where the maximum number of synchronization signal blocks in a burst increases compared to the 5G standardization.

BACKGROUND

[0002] It is known, in the 5G standardization, for a gNB to perform beam sweeping while transmitting SSB beams during the synchronization phase of beam alignment.

SUMMARY

[0003] The following summary is merely intended to be illustrative. The summary is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0004] In accordance with one aspect, an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. [0005] In accordance with one aspect, a method comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring, with a user equipment, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0006] In accordance with one aspect, an apparatus comprising means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0007] In accordance with one aspect, a computer-readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0008] In accordance with one aspect, an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitor for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determine an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and select a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[0009] In accordance with one aspect, a method comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting, with a network node, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[0010] In accordance with one aspect, an apparatus comprising means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[0011] In accordance with one aspect, a computer-readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[0012] According to some aspects, there is provided the subject matter of the independent claims. Some further aspects are defined in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The foregoing aspects and other features are explained in the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting example system in which the example embodiments may be practiced;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating features as described herein;

[0021] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating steps as described herein; and

[0022] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating steps as described herein;.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The following abbreviations that may be found in the specification and/or the drawing figures are defined as follows:

3GPP third generation partnership project 5G fifth generation

5GC 5G core network

6G 6G core network

AMF access and mobility management function cRAN cloud radio access network

CSI channel state information cu central unit

DL downlink

DU distributed unit

EIRP equivalent isotropic radiation eNB (or eNodeB) evolved Node B (e.g., an LTE base station)

EN-DC E-UTRA-NR dual connectivity en-gNB or En-gNB node providing NR user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE, and acting as secondary node in EN-DC

E-UTRA evolved universal terrestrial radio access, i.e., the LTE radio access technology

FR1 frequency range 1

FR2 frequency range 2 gNB (or gNodeB) base station for 5G/NR, i.e., a node providing NR user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE, and connected via the NG interface to the 5GC

GoB grid of beam

IE information element

I/F interface

LI layer 1

LTE long term evolution

MAC medium access control

MCS modulation and coding scheme

MIB master information block

MiMo multiple input multiple output

MME mobility management entity Msgl message 1

Msg2 message 2

Msg3 message 3

Msg4 message 4 ng or NG new generation ng-eNB or NG-eNB new generation eNB

NR new radio

N/W or NW network

O-RAN open radio access network

PDCP packet data convergence protocol

PHY physical layer

PRACH physical random access channel

RACH random access channel

RAN radio access network

RAR random access response

RF radio frequency

RLC radio link control

RO random access channel occasion

RRC radio resource control

RRH remote radio head

RS reference signal

RU radio unit

Rx receiver

SDAP service data adaptation protocol

SGW serving gateway

SIB system information block

SINR signal-to-interference plus noise ratio

SMF session management function

SSB synchronization signal block

Tx transmitter

UE user equipment (e.g., a wireless, typically mobile device)

UL uplink UPF user plane function

VNR virtualized network function

[0024] Turning to FIG. 1, this figure shows a block diagram of one possible and nonlimiting example in which the examples may be practiced. A user equipment (UE) 110, radio access network (RAN) node 170, and network element(s) 190 are illustrated. In the example of FIG. 1, the user equipment (UE) 110 is in wireless communication with a wireless network 100. A UE is a wireless device that can access the wireless network 100. The UE 110 includes one or more processors 120, one or more memories 125, and one or more transceivers 130 interconnected through one or more buses 127. Each of the one or more transceivers 130 includes a receiver, Rx, 132 and a transmitter, Tx, 133. The one or more buses 127 may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, and the like. A “circuit” may include dedicated hardware or hardware in association with software executable thereon. The one or more transceivers 130 are connected to one or more antennas 128. The one or more memories 125 include computer program code 123. The UE 110 includes a module 140, comprising one of or both parts 140- 1 and/or 140-2, which may be implemented in a number of ways. The module 140 may be implemented in hardware as module 140-1, such as being implemented as part of the one or more processors 120. The module 140-1 may be implemented also as an integrated circuit or through other hardware such as a programmable gate array. In another example, the module 140 may be implemented as module 140-2, which is implemented as computer program code 123 and is executed by the one or more processors 120. For instance, the one or more memories 125 and the computer program code 123 may be configured to, with the one or more processors 120, cause the user equipment 110 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. The UE 110 communicates with RAN node 170 via a wireless link 111.

[0025] The RAN node 170 in this example is a base station that provides access by wireless devices such as the UE 110 to the wireless network 100. The RAN node 170 may be, for example, a base station for 5G, also called New Radio (NR). In 5G, the RAN node 170 may be a NG-RAN node, which is defined as either a gNB or a ng-eNB. A gNB is a node providing NR user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE, and connected via the NG interface to a 5GC (such as, for example, the network element(s) 190). The ng-eNB is a node providing E-UTRA user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE, and connected via the NG interface to the 5GC. The NG-RAN node may include multiple gNBs, which may also include a central unit (CU) (gNB-CU) 196 and distributed unit(s) (DUs) (gNB-DUs), of which DU 195 is shown. Note that the DU may include or be coupled to and control a radio unit (RU). The gNB-CU is a logical node hosting RRC, SDAP and PDCP protocols of the gNB or RRC and PDCP protocols of the en-gNB that controls the operation of one or more gNB-DUs. The gNB-CU terminates the Fl interface connected with the gNB-DU. The Fl interface is illustrated as reference 198, although reference 198 also illustrates a link between remote elements of the RAN node 170 and centralized elements of the RAN node 170, such as between the gNB-CU 196 and the gNB- DU 195. The gNB-DU is a logical node hosting RLC, MAC and PHY layers of the gNB or en-gNB, and its operation is partly controlled by gNB-CU. One gNB-CU supports one or multiple cells. One cell is supported by only one gNB-DU. The gNB-DU terminates the Fl interface 198 connected with the gNB-CU. Note that the DU 195 is considered to include the transceiver 160, e.g., as part of a RU, but some examples of this may have the transceiver 160 as part of a separate RU, e.g., under control of and connected to the DU 195. The RAN node 170 may also be an eNB (evolved NodeB) base station, for ETE (long term evolution), or any other suitable base station, access point, access node, or node.

[0026] The RAN node 170 includes one or more processors 152, one or more memories 155, one or more network interfaces (N/W I/F(s)) 161, and one or more transceivers 160 interconnected through one or more buses 157. Each of the one or more transceivers 160 includes a receiver, Rx, 162 and a transmitter, Tx, 163. The one or more transceivers 160 are connected to one or more antennas 158. The one or more memories 155 include computer program code 153. The CU 196 may include the processor(s) 152, memories 155, and network interfaces 161. Note that the DU 195 may also contain its own memory/memories and processor(s), and/or other hardware, but these are not shown.

[0027] The RAN node 170 includes a module 150, comprising one of or both parts 150- 1 and/or 150-2, which may be implemented in a number of ways. The module 150 may be implemented in hardware as module 150-1, such as being implemented as part of the one or more processors 152. The module 150-1 may be implemented also as an integrated circuit or through other hardware such as a programmable gate array. In another example, the module 150 may be implemented as module 150-2, which is implemented as computer program code 153 and is executed by the one or more processors 152. For instance, the one or more memories 155 and the computer program code 153 are configured to, with the one or more processors 152, cause the RAN node 170 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. Note that the functionality of the module 150 may be distributed, such as being distributed between the DU 195 and the CU 196, or be implemented solely in the DU 195.

[0028] The one or more network interfaces 161 communicate over a network such as via the links 176 and 131. Two or more gNBs 170 may communicate using, e.g., link 176. The link 176 may be wired or wireless or both and may implement, for example, an Xn interface for 5G, an X2 interface for LTE, or other suitable interface for other standards.

[0029] The one or more buses 157 may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, wireless channels, and the like. For example, the one or more transceivers 160 may be implemented as a remote radio head (RRH) 195 for LTE or a distributed unit (DU) 195 for gNB implementation for 5G, with the other elements of the RAN node 170 possibly being physically in a different location from the RRH/DU, and the one or more buses 157 could be implemented in part as, for example, fiber optic cable or other suitable network connection to connect the other elements (e.g., a central unit (CU), gNB-CU) of the RAN node 170 to the RRH/DU 195. Reference 198 also indicates those suitable network link(s).

[0030] It is noted that description herein indicates that “cells” perform functions, but it should be clear that equipment which forms the cell will perform the functions. The cell makes up part of a base station. That is, there can be multiple cells per base station. For example, there could be three cells for a single carrier frequency and associated bandwidth, each cell covering one-third of a 360 degree area so that the single base station’s coverage area covers an approximate oval or circle. Furthermore, each cell can correspond to a single carrier and a base station may use multiple carriers. So if there are three 120 degree cells per carrier and two carriers, then the base station has a total of 6 cells. [0031] The wireless network 100 may include a network element or elements 190 that may include core network functionality, and which provides connectivity via a link or links 181 with a further network, such as a telephone network and/or a data communications network (e.g., the Internet). Such core network functionality for 5G may include access and mobility management function(s) (AMF(s)) and/or user plane functions (UPF(s)) and/or session management function(s) (SMF(s)). Such core network functionality for LTE may include MME (Mobility Management Entity)/SGW (Serving Gateway) functionality. These are merely illustrative functions that may be supported by the network element(s) 190, and note that both 5G and LTE functions might be supported. The RAN node 170 is coupled via a link 131 to a network element 190. The link 131 may be implemented as, e.g., an NG interface for 5G, or an SI interface for LTE, or other suitable interface for other standards. The network element 190 includes one or more processors 175, one or more memories 171, and one or more network interfaces (N/W I/F(s)) 180, interconnected through one or more buses 185. The one or more memories 171 include computer program code 173. The one or more memories 171 and the computer program code 173 are configured to, with the one or more processors 175, cause the network element 190 to perform one or more operations.

[0032] The wireless network 100 may implement network virtualization, which is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functionality into a single, software-based administrative entity, a virtual network. Network virtualization involves platform virtualization, often combined with resource virtualization. Network virtualization is categorized as either external, combining many networks, or parts of networks, into a virtual unit, or internal, providing network-like functionality to software containers on a single system. For example, a network may be deployed in a tele cloud, with virtualized network functions (VNF) running on, for example, data center servers. For example, network core functions and/or radio access network(s) (e.g. CloudRAN, O-RAN, edge cloud) may be virtualized. Note that the virtualized entities that result from the network virtualization are still implemented, at some level, using hardware such as processors 152 or 175 and memories 155 and 171, and also such virtualized entities create technical effects.

[0033] It may also be noted that operations of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be carried out by a plurality of cooperating devices (e.g. cRAN). [0034] The computer readable memories 125, 155, and 171 may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory. The computer readable memories 125, 155, and 171 may be means for performing storage functions. The processors 120, 152, and 175 may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment, and may include one or more of general purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs) and processors based on a multi-core processor architecture, as non-limiting examples. The processors 120, 152, and 175 may be means for performing functions, such as controlling the UE 110, RAN node 170, and other functions as described herein.

[0035] In general, the various example embodiments of the user equipment 110 can include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones such as smart phones, tablets, personal digital assistants (PDAs) having wireless communication capabilities, portable computers having wireless communication capabilities, image capture devices such as digital cameras having wireless communication capabilities, gaming devices having wireless communication capabilities, music storage and playback appliances having wireless communication capabilities, Internet appliances permitting wireless Internet access and browsing, tablets with wireless communication capabilities, as well as portable units or terminals that incorporate combinations of such functions.

[0036] Having thus introduced one suitable but non-limiting technical context for the practice of the example embodiments of the present disclosure, example embodiments will now be described with greater specificity.

[0037] Features as described herein may generally relate to beam alignment, for example in the context of 6G. For example, features as described herein may generally relate to the maximum number of synchronization signal block (SSB) beams within an SSB burst. The current maximum number of allowed SSB beams within an SSB burst for a specified carrier frequency is specified for 5G in (TS38.213, section 4.1), and is summarized in TAB EE 1.

[0038] TABLE 1

[0039] A high number of SSB beams within an SSB burst is only seen in 5G for the commercialized FR2 frequency bands from 24.2 GHz to 52.6 GHz (also referred to as mmWave) and are typically implemented with large antenna arrays at the gNB (typically up to 16+16) and small antenna arrays at the UEs (1x4, 2x2 or 1x5), to improve the communication link by increasing the antenna gain at both the gNB and the UE.

[0040] The upcoming 6G standard will most likely include new frequency ranges compared to 5G. These potential new frequency ranges were agreed upon at the WRC-23 conference and are as follows:

[0041] - 4400 MHz -> 4800 MHz

[0042] - 7125 MHz -> 8400 MHz

[0043] - 14800 MHz -> 15350 MHz

[0044] This includes new bands above 6GHz that might need more than 8 SSB beams within an SSB burst, but not as many as 64, as currently specified. In addition, larger antenna apertures (32x32 or even 64x64) at the 6G gNBs are also being discussed as a solution to increase coverage and signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR) for both DL and UL communication. Increasing the antenna aperture will result in beams with higher antenna gain, but at the same time smaller radiation beamwidth, and will increase the need for a higher number of SSB beams within an SSB burst to successfully cover the full sector with increased antenna gain.

[0045] As such, the maximum number of SSB beams within an SSB burst will have to be redefined for 6G to include the potential new frequency ranges and to account for larger antenna apertures at the gNBs. Taking the above into account, a 6G version of the maximum number of SSB beams within an SSB burst for different frequency carriers may be as shown in TABLE 2.

[0047] The potential increase of the allowed maximum number of SSB beams within an SSB burst will also require 3GPP to revisit the beam alignment procedure defined for 5G for frequency ranges with an increased and high number of SSBs. In addition, a higher number of SSBs will also increase the power consumption at the gNB.

[0048] The beam alignment procedure, as specified for 5G (3GPP TR 38.802 section 6.1.6 and in TS 38.214 section 5.2), is illustrated in FIG. 2 for an example scenario where the gNB is using 32 beams (206) for the SSB burst configured on a 16 x 16 element antenna array. The gNB may support a higher number of configured antenna elements for data communication, depending on the total size of the antenna array and the configured beams used in the channel state information (CSI) refinement phase (phase#2) (230). A higher number of used SSB beams within a SSB burst is also possible.

[0049] In the example of FIG. 2, beam alignment at the UE is depicted for both digital and analog implementation. Digital beam alignment represents the typical sub6GHz UE antenna implementation, where each single antenna may be connected to an RF branch and may receive simultaneously on all antennas supporting a specific frequency band. Some UE may also be capable of transmitting simultaneously on all antennas, while others may only transmit on a reduced set of available antennas. Analog beam alignment represents the typical antenna array implementation for FR2 frequencies at the UE. Each antenna array may support two orthogonal polarizations connected to separate RF branches that may receive an independent signal on each polarization at the same time, or transmit a common signal combined on both polarizations. However, the UE may only configure two similar beams for receiving, or one beam for transmitting at any given time, and may have to configure multiple different beams to cover the angular domain of the antenna array. [0050] The digital beam alignment at the UE represents FR1 frequencies where the UE in the RACH phase is expected to select the best antenna out of all possible antennas (no Phase#3) (232). Digital beam alignment is used for FR1 frequencies for multiple input multiple output (MiMo) by sending the same digital pre-code data on more than one antenna.

[0051] The analog beam alignment phase is for FR2 frequencies where the UE is expected to perform its analog beam alignment (240) after the RACH procedure (212).

[0052] In the example of FIG. 2, during synchronization, the gNB may sweep 32 SSB beams in each SSB burst (206, 208) in a 1-15-16 grid of beam (GoB) pattern as shown in FIG. 3, where the narrow beams 1-31 (310) comprise high additional antenna gain (+24 dB), and the wide beam 32 (320) comprises a lower additional antenna gain (+ 9 dB).

[0053] In analog beam alignment, at 204 the UE may use a static Rx beam to monitor for the SSB beams transmitted by the gNB. In digital beam alignment, at 202 the UE may use up to four simultaneous Rx beams to monitor for the SSB beams transmitted by the gNB. In analog beam alignment and digital beam alignment, the UE may determine a best beam based on the monitoring. A UE will typically need to average 2 to 6 measurements of the SSB beams to countereffect fast fading in the channel, which means the UE will have to wait for 2 to 6 full SSB bursts before it can determine the best SSB beam for transmitting the preamble (msgl) (214) at the specified RACH occasion (RO). The default periodicity for SSB bursts in 5G is 20 ms, which will result in a time consuming averaging processing time, especially for initial access or when the UE has utilized power save functions and have to reestablish an RRC connection.

[0054] In the example of FIG. 2, during Phase#l or the random access channel (RACH) procedure, the UE may send a preamble (Msgl) (214), as defined by master information block (MIB) and/or system information block (SIB) information, for the chosen best SSB beam, whereafter it may receive a Msg2 (216), transmit a Msg3 (218) and finally receive a msg4 (220) (4-step RACH). In digital beam alignment, the UE (210) may use a single static Tx/Rx beam during RACH. In analog beam alignment, the UE (212) may use a static Tx/Rx beam during RACH. In the example of FIG. 2, the gNB (222) may use a 32 x RO sweeps to monitor for Msgl (214), and may use a static Tx/Rx beam to monitor for Msg3 (218). [0055] In the example of FIG. 2, during Phase#2, CSI refinement may or may not be needed, depending on the gNB implementation, but CSI-RS (228) may still be needed for channel characterization. In digital beam alignment, the UE (224) may use a single static Tx/Rx beam to monitor for CSI-RS from the gNB. In analog beam alignment, the UE (226) may use a static Rx beam to monitor for CSI-RS from the gNB. The gNB may use a static Tx beam (230) to transmit the CSI-RS.

[0056] In the example of FIG. 2, during Phase #3 or UE beam alignment, CSI-RS with repetition set to “ON” may be required for enabling the UE to perform beam alignment, and the number of CSI-RSs (236) for this phase may depend on the antenna array implementation at the UE. In analog beam alignment, the UE may use Rx sweeps (234) to monitor for the CSI- RS. The gNB may use a single Tx beam (238) to transmit the CSI-RS.

[0057] Once the UE beam (240) and the gNB beam (244) are aligned, data may be transmitted (242) from the UE to the gNB.

[0058] One disadvantage of this beam alignment procedure is that it is based on Tx sweeping, which is power consuming and requires feedback from the UE (msgl), for the gNB to select its best beam. In addition, due to the Tx sweeping it’s very difficult for the UE to use the different SSB beams for reliable UE beam alignment, and a specific phase#3 for UE beam alignment is added after the gNB beam alignment. This means that potential antenna gain at the UE is not utilized in the synchronization and RACH phases of the beam alignment procedure.

[0059] A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to utilize the potential UE antenna gain. A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to reduce the number of required reference signals. A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to reduce the total time needed for the beam alignment procedure. A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to enable greater power efficiency at the gNB. A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to support the higher granularity of configurable (narrower) beams expected for 6G gNBs due to the introduction of new higher frequency ranges and larger gNB antenna arrays. [0060] In an example embodiment, the SSB burst interval may be divided into a static Tx part (no beam sweeping) and a dynamic Rx part (beam sweeping), where the Rx part may act as the RO part in the current 5G RACH procedure. The specific Tx/Rx split of the SSB burst may be embedded into a MIB message or a SIB message.

[0061] In an example embodiment, the gNB may be configured with static wide horizontal aligned beam(s) in the Tx portion of the SSB burst. In an example embodiment, the gNB may be configured to toggle between two or more wide horizontal beams (which may be wide in terms of azimuth) with different angular coverage range in elevation. The specific number of toggled beams may be embedded into a MIB message or a SIB message.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 4, illustrated is an example of an enhanced beam alignment procedure according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The example of FIG. 4 may be performed in the 6G context, or another context. The beam alignment at the UE is depicted for both digital and analog implementations.

[0063] In 6G, UE antenna implementation for frequencies below 10 GHz is expected to be single antennas, as described for the digital beam alignment, whereas antenna implementation for FR2 is expected to be antenna arrays as described for the analog beam alignment. However, antenna implementation for the new frequency band at 15 GHz may be either or both, as both concepts are viable implementations for a 6G UE. Example embodiments of the present disclosure may be applicable to digital beam alignment and/or to analog beam alignment.

[0064] In the synchronization phase, the gNB may be configured to transmit 8 SSB signals (for this example) (406) with common wide horizontal beams and a narrow vertical beam (408). One or more addition wide horizontal beams may be included in this phase, for example for increased synchronization coverage in elevation if needed. In the case of a plurality of horizontal beams and a wider vertical beam, the gNB may toggle between these beams. The gNB may only need one wide horizontal beam to cover the full cell for synchronization, as illustrated in FIG. 5, where the dark gray beam (#1) (510) represents the wide horizontal beam, and where the light gray beams 1-32 represent the typical 5G SSB sweep pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 3. In an example embodiment, the wide horizontal beam, which is static, may be used instead of beam sweeping. [0065] It can be seen from FIG. 5 that a single wide horizontal beam may cover most of the cell in the azimuth dimension, except the higher elevation beams (1-16). However, spreading the energy of one beam across the full horizontal/azimuth angle domain (120°) may reduce the antenna gain of that single beam by approximately 12 dB (e.g. for a 16x16 antenna array). This may be a 12 dB increase compared to using a single wide beam in both azimuth and elevation. As such, this approach may offer a good gain compromise for an increases gNB power efficiency during the SSB phase. In addition, this antenna gain loss may be acceptable for some of these new high frequency ranges, as they are intended to be used for high throughput data communication, which will require high SINR levels (up to 30 dB for the highest modulation and coding scheme (MCS), and maybe even higher SINR for potential new modulation formats defined for 6G).

[0066] It is assumed that the lower frequency range may still be used for coverage using the legacy 5G SSB procedure (see, e.g., FIG. 2), and that UEs at the cell edge may use those frequency ranges for initial access (RACH). The low elevation beam (32) may be intended for UEs close to the gNB, and such UEs may still be capable of detecting the wide horizontal beam even though the direction of the maximum antenna gain is not aligned, due to the good signal conditions (e.g. short distance to the gNB). The high elevation areas may be covered by utilizing a second wide horizontal beam, having the same coverage in azimuth, but increased coverage in elevation (including the coverage of the first wide beam), as shown in FIG. 6 with beam #2 (610). Both Beam#l and Beam #2 may be configured using the full array of antennas for maximum combined PA power delivered to the antenna array. The gNB may then toggle between those two wide horizontal beams (e.g. beam #1 in FIG. 5 and beam #2 in FIG. 6). Optionally, the gNB may toggle through more than two wide horizontal beams during the synchronization phase.

[0067] In the examples of FIGs. 5-6, the second wide horizontal beam has a better coverage in elevation, but reduced gain (3-4 dB) compared to the angular domain covered by the first wide horizontal beam, and the first wide horizontal beam has a lower antenna gain (12 dB) than the narrow beams (light gray) used in the synchronization phase for the traditional 5G beam alignment. However, since the two toggled wide horizontal beams are static and have a large overlap area (i.e. the coverage area of the first beam is also covered by the second beam), the UE may use the synchronization phase to align its own beam toward the gNB using either one of the two toggled beams, or both of them if the UE can detect both beams. This may increase the antenna gain at the UE utilizing analog beam alignment by for example 7 dB (1x5 antenna array), and may compensate for some of the reduced antenna gain at the gNB. A UE utilizing digital beam alignment alone may lose a few dB antenna gain for certain angular directions in this downlink synchronization phase compared to the analog beam alignment at the UE. However, this example RACH procedure may only be used for UEs in good signal conditions, high frequency ranges, and for power efficiency optimization at the gNB during the SSB procedures.

[0068] Another advantage of using a static beam at the gNB in the synchronization phase is that the UE may perform the Layer 1/3 averaging over 2 to 6 samples within a single SSB burst, and may not have to wait for 2 to 6 full SSB bursts to do this. A UE connecting to a 5G network may not be able to do this with the current 5G beam alignment procedure, as all the beams in the SSB bust are narrow beam with gain in different angular directions.

[0069] In the example of FIG. 4, in the synchronization phase of analog beam alignment (404), the UE may use two wide beams and/or 6 analog sweeps to monitor for the SSB signals transmitted by the gNB. In the example of FIG. 4, in the synchronization phase of digital beam alignment (402), the UE may use a plurality of sequential single Rx beam sweeps (antennas) to monitor for the SSB signals transmitted by the gNB, or use all Rx beams (antennas) simultaneously to obtain up to 6 dB Rx combining gain.

[0070] Since the UE may use the synchronization phase for beam alignment, it may utilize antenna gain for the RACH procedure and transmit msgl (414) and msg3 (418) with added gain. A UE implemented with digital beam alignment (410) and fully calibrated (e.g. reciprocal RF front end for Tx and Rx) may use UL None-Codebook-Based pre-coding based on the received SSB signals in the synchronization phase, as those signals were sent with static beams (no beam sweeping).

[0071] The second Rx portion of the SSB burst may be configured for RO where the UE may transmit one preamble (msgl) per allocated SSB burst (8 in this example) (414). The preamble may be transmitted, during the Rx portion of the SSB burst, a number of times that is equal to or less than the number of SSB signals allocated for the Rx portion of the SSB burst. The preamble may be selected based on the best beam detected by the UE during the synchronization phase. It may be noted that while the number of preambles transmitted by the UE increases in this example embodiment as compared to FIG. 2, the UE does not transmit preambles very often; accordingly the resulting increase in resource use and UE energy consumption is not very high. The gNB may sweep between 8 vertical beams (710), as illustrated in FIG. 7, to determine an initial angular direction of the UE. These vertical beams may have full coverage in both the azimuth dimension (collectively) and the elevation dimension (individual), but with a 6 dB reduced antenna gain (+18dB vs. 24 dB) at the gNB compared to the currently used gNB beams during the RO procedure for 5G. However, as the UE may have already aligned its beam in the synchronization phase, that 7 dB gain may be added here, increasing the total antenna gain by 1 dB for the RACH phase compared to 5G.

[0072] In the example of FIG. 4, in the RACH phase of digital beam alignment (410), the UE may use static pre-coded TX beam. In the example of FIG. 4, in the RACH phase of analog beam alignment (412), the UE may use a best Rx beam. In the RACH phase, the UE may transmit Msgl (414) to the gNB. The gNB may receive the Msgl using, in this example, eight Rx SSB vertical beam sweeps (422). The gNB may transmit Msg2 (416) to the UE. The UE may transmit Msg3 (418) to the gNB. The gNB may receive Msg3 using, in this example, a static TxRx SSB vertical beam (422). The gNB may transmit Msg4 (420) to the UE.

[0073] In an example embodiment, a standard CSI beam refinement phase may be included. During the CSI beam refinement phase, the gNB may select the best narrow beam for data after the UE is RRC connected, which may be performed based, at least partially, on the best vertical beam found during the Rx (RO) beam sweeping phase, shown in FIG. 7 and in FIG. 4 at 422.

[0074] In an example embodiment, two information elements (IE), ssb-Tx/RxSplit and ssb-TxToggle, may be added into, for example, the SIB1 message (ServingCellConfigCommon or ServingCellConfigCommonSIBf assuming this format is reused for 6G. An example of these IE in ServingCellConfigCommon may be:

ServingCellConfigCommon ::= SEQUENCE { ssb-PositionsInBurst CHOICE { shortBitmap BIT STRING (SIZE (4)), mediumBitmap BIT STRING (SIZE (8)), longBitmap BIT STRING (SIZE (64))

} OPTIONAL, - Cond

AbsFreqSSB ssb-periodicityServingCell ENUMERATED { ms5, mslO, ms20, ms40, ms80, msl60, spare2, sparel }

OPTIONAL, - Need S ssb-Tx/RxSplit BIT STRING (SIZE (2)) ssb-TxToggle BIT STRING (SIZE (1))

}

[0075] In an example embodiment, the interpretation of the two-BIT allocation for the ssb-Tx/RxSplit IE may be as follows. Where ssb-Tx/RxSplit - 00, the first 4 SSB signals may be used for Tx. Where ssb-Tx/RxSplit - 01, the first 8 SSB signals may be used for Tx. Where ssb-Tx/RxSplit - 10, the first 16 SSB signals may be used for Tx. Where ssb-Tx/RxSplit = 11, the first 32 SSB signals may be used for Tx. The remaining SSB allocations may be used for RO. It may be noted that ssb-Tx/RxSplit is not limited to two bits; a higher number of bits may be assigned to the ssb-Tx/RxSplit IE for higher granularity of the Tx/Rx split, or different values of SSBs for Tx than what is exemplified here.

[0076] In an example embodiment, the gNB may be configured to use multiple horizontal beams, or may be configured to use only one horizontal beam. The configuration of the gNB may, for example, be based on the environment in which the gNB operates. For example, if the geography is flat and/or there are few tall buildings, toggling between wide horizontal beams with different elevations be unnecessary. In contrast, in a city or a mountainous area, full(er) coverage in the elevation dimension may be useful, such that the gNB may be configured to toggle between wide horizontal beams during the synchronization phase.

[0077] The interpretation of the one-BIT allocation for the ssb-TxToggle IE may be as follows. Where ssb-TxToggle - 00, only one horizontal beam may be used, and no toggling may be performed. Where ssb-TxToggle - 01, there may be two horizontal toggled beams. It may be noted that ssb-TxToggle is not limited to two bits; a higher number of bits may be assigned to the ssb-Tx/RxSplit IE for a higher number of toggled horizontal beams in the Tx phase of the SSB burst than what is exemplified here.

[0078] If both IES (i.e. ssb-Tx/RxSplit and ssb-TxToggle) are not included in the SIB1 message (e.g. neither is included) or “VOID”, it may be indicated that the gNB is using a legacy 5G beam alignment procedure.

[0079] The total antenna gain and the number of required reference signals are shown in TABLE 3 below for the currently specified 5G beam alignment procedure and for beam alignment procedure according to example embodiments of the present disclosure, for example in the context of 6G.

[0080] TABLE 3

[0081] As shown in TABLE 3, A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to reduce the required number of reference signals with a factor of 2.8 (27 vs 76), in this example. That improvement may be obtained with a total antenna gain loss of 5 dB in the synchronization phase, but a 1 dB gain in the RACH phases. However, the additional loss in the synchronization phase may be acceptable for some of these new high frequency ranges, as they are intended to be used for high throughput data communication, which may require high SINR level (up to 30 dB for the highest MCS and maybe even high for 6G). As such, lower frequency ranged may be used for increased coverage and for initial access for UEs at cell edge. [0082] The improvement of the number of required reference signals may depend on the number of configured SSB signals, where a higher number of configured SSB signals may improve the obtained reduction ratio of required reference signals.

[0083] A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to enable faster beam alignment, as all Layerl/3 averaging may be performed within a single SSB burst.

[0084] A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure may be to lower power consumption at the gNB during the SSB phases (i.e. better energy efficiency).

[0085] FIG. 8 illustrates the potential steps of an example method 800. The example method 800 may include: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams, 810; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals, 820; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble, 830; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals, 840. The example method 800 may be performed, for example, with a user equipment.

[0086] FIG. 9 illustrates the potential steps of an example method 900. The example method 900 may include: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams, 910; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams, 920; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams, 930; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction, 940. The example method 900 may be performed, for example, with a base station, a network node, a gNB, an eNB, etc.

[0087] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. The example apparatus may be further configured to: receive a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example apparatus may be further configured to: receive an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example apparatus may be further configured to: receive an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example apparatus may be further configured to: receive an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted towards a plurality of vertical beams, and respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted, in the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, a number of times that is equal to or less than a number of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals allocated for the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. Measuring the plurality of synchronization signal block signals may comprise the example apparatus being further configured to: determine that the plurality of synchronization signal block signals are transmitted via at least two horizontal beams in an alternating manner. The reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise a random access channel occasion. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be monitored with the example apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be transmitted with the example apparatus.

[0088] In accordance with one aspect, an example method may be provided comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring, with a user equipment, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. The example method may further comprise: receiving a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example method may further comprise: receiving an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example method may further comprise: receiving an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example method may further comprise: receiving an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted towards a plurality of vertical beams, and respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted, in the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, a number of times that may be equal to or less than a number of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals allocated for the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. Measuring the plurality of synchronization signal block signals may comprise determining that the plurality of synchronization signal block signals are transmitted via at least two horizontal beams in an alternating manner. The reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise a random access channel occasion. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be monitored with the user equipment, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be transmitted with the user equipment.

[0089] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: circuitry configured to perform: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring, with a user equipment, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; circuitry configured to perform: determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; circuitry configured to perform: during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and circuitry configured to perform: determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0090] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: processing circuitry; memory circuitry including computer program code, the memory circuitry and the computer program code configured to, with the processing circuitry, enable the apparatus to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0091] As used in this application, the term “circuitry” or “means” may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry) and (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of analog and/or digital hardware circuit(s) with software/firmware and (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions) and (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.” This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and/or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0092] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. The means may be further configured for: receiving a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The means may be further configured for: receiving an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the means may be further configured for: receiving an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The means may be further configured for: receiving an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted towards a plurality of vertical beams, and respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted, in the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, a number of times that may be equal to or less than a number of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals allocated for the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The means configured for measuring the plurality of synchronization signal block signals may comprise means configured for: determining that the plurality of synchronization signal block signals are transmitted via at least two horizontal beams in an alternating manner. The reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise a random access channel occasion. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be monitored with the example apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be transmitted with the example apparatus.

[0093] A processor, memory, and/or example algorithms (which may be encoded as instructions, program, or code) may be provided as example means for providing or causing performance of operation.

[0094] In accordance with one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising instructions stored thereon which, when executed with at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0095] In accordance with one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: receiving a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: receiving an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example computer-readable medium may further comprise receiving an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: receiving an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted towards a plurality of vertical beams, and respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The at least one determined random access preamble may be transmitted, in the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, a number of times that may be equal to or less than a number of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals allocated for the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The program instructions stored thereon for measuring the plurality of synchronization signal block signals may comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: determining that the plurality of synchronization signal block signals may be transmitted via at least two horizontal beams in an alternating manner. The reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise a random access channel occasion. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be monitored with the user equipment, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be transmitted with the user equipment.

[0096] In accordance with another example embodiment, a (non-transitory) program storage device readable by a machine may be provided, tangibly embodying instructions executable by the machine for performing operations, the operations comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0097] In accordance with another example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals. [0098] A computer implemented system comprising: at least one processor and at least one (non-transitory) memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system at least to perform: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[0099] A computer implemented system comprising: means for during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; means for determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; means for during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and means for determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

[00100] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitor for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determine an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and select a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction. The example apparatus may be further configured to: transmit, to the user equipment, a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example apparatus may be further configured to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example apparatus may be further configured to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams; and toggle between the plurality of horizontal beams during the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example apparatus may be further configured to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. Respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. Determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment may comprise the example apparatus being further configured to: determine a vertical beam, of the plurality of vertical beams, where a random access preamble, of the one or more random access preambles, may be received with highest power; and determine the initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the determined vertical beam. Monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams may comprise the example apparatus being further configured to: sweep between vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be transmitted with the example apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be monitored with the example apparatus.

[00101] In accordance with one aspect, an example method may be provided comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting, with a network node, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction. The example method may further comprise: transmitting, to the user equipment, a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example method may further comprise: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example method may further comprise: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams; and toggling between the plurality of horizontal beams during the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example method may further comprise: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. Respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. Determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment may comprise: determining a vertical beam, of the plurality of vertical beams, where a random access preamble, of the one or more random access preambles, may be received with highest power; and determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the determined vertical beam. Monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams may comprise: sweeping between vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be transmitted with the network node, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be monitored with the network node.

[00102] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: circuitry configured to perform: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting, with a network node, a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; circuitry configured to perform: during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; circuitry configured to perform: determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and circuitry configured to perform: selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00103] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise: processing circuitry; memory circuitry including computer program code, the memory circuitry and the computer program code configured to, with the processing circuitry, enable the apparatus to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitor for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determine an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and select a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00104] In accordance with one example embodiment, an apparatus may comprise means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction. The means may be further configured for: transmitting, to the user equipment, a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The means may be further configured for: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the means may be further configured for: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams; and toggling between the plurality of horizontal beams during the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The means may be further configured for: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. Respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The means configured for determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment may comprise means configured for: determining a vertical beam, of the plurality of vertical beams, where a random access preamble, of the one or more random access preambles, is received with highest power; and determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the determined vertical beam. The means configured for monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams may comprise means configured for: sweeping between vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be transmitted with the example apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be monitored with the example apparatus.

[00105] In accordance with one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising instructions stored thereon which, when executed with at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, cause transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitor for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determine an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and select a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00106] In accordance with one example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: transmit, to the user equipment, a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling. The configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part. The one or more horizontal beams may comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams; and toggling between the plurality of horizontal beams during the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval. The respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range. The example computer-readable medium may further comprise program instructions stored thereon for performing: transmitting, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams. Respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams may comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range. The program instructions stored thereon for performing determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment may comprise program instructions for performing: determining a vertical beam, of the plurality of vertical beams, where a random access preamble, of the one or more random access preambles, may be received with highest power; and determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the determined vertical beam. The program instructions stored thereon for performing monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams may comprise program instructions for performing: sweeping between vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams. The transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which downlink signals may be transmitted with a network node, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval may comprise an interval during which uplink signals may be monitored with the network node.

[00107] In accordance with another example embodiment, a (non-transitory) program storage device readable by a machine may be provided, tangibly embodying instructions executable by the machine for performing operations, the operations comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00108] In accordance with another example embodiment, a (non-transitory) computer- readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00109] A computer implemented system comprising: at least one processor and at least one (non-transitory) memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system at least to perform: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00110] A computer implemented system comprising: means for during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, causing transmitting of a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; means for during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; means for determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and means for selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

[00111] The term “non-transitory,” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e. tangible, not a signal) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[00112] It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art. For example, features recited in the various dependent claims could be combined with each other in any suitable combination(s). In addition, features from different embodiments described above could be selectively combined into a new embodiment. Accordingly, the description is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modification and variances which fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measure a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determine at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit the at least one determined random access preamble; and determine a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises.

4. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 3, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part.

5. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 4, wherein the one or more horizontal beams comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range.

7. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 4, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams.

8. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 7, wherein the at least one determined random access preamble is transmitted towards a plurality of vertical beams, wherein respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range.

9. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 8, wherein the at least one determined random access preamble is transmitted, in the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, a number of times that is equal to or less than a number of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals allocated for the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval.

10. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 9, wherein measuring the plurality of synchronization signal block signals comprises the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine that the plurality of synchronization signal block signals are transmitted via at least two horizontal beams in an alternating manner.

11. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 10, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises a random access channel occasion.

12. The apparatus of any of claims 1 through 11, wherein the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises an interval during which downlink signals are monitored with the apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises an interval during which uplink signals are transmitted with the apparatus.

13. An apparatus comprising means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

14. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmit a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitor for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determine an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and select a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: transmit, to the user equipment, a configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval in at least one of: master block information signaling, or system block information signaling.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the configuration for the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises, at least, an indication of a number of synchronization signal block beams the transmission part comprises.

17. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 16, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that the synchronization signal block burst interval is split into the transmission part and the reception part.

18. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 17, wherein the one or more horizontal beams comprise a plurality of horizontal beams, wherein respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams comprise at least partially different elevation ranges, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is performed between the plurality of horizontal beams; and toggle between the plurality of horizontal beams during the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the respective beams of the plurality of horizontal beams comprise an at least partially overlapping azimuth range.

20. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 17, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: transmit, to the user equipment, an indication that toggling is not performed for the one or more horizontal beams.

21. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 20, wherein respective vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams comprise an at least partially overlapping elevation range and an at least partially different azimuth range.

22. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 21, wherein determining the initial angular direction of the user equipment comprises the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine a vertical beam, of the plurality of vertical beams, where a random access preamble, of the one or more random access preambles, is received with highest power; and determine the initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the determined vertical beam.

23. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 22, wherein monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams comprises the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: sweep between vertical beams of the plurality of vertical beams.

24. The apparatus of any of claims 14 through 23, wherein the transmission part of the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises an interval during which downlink signals are transmitted with the apparatus, wherein the reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval comprises an interval during which uplink signals are monitored with the apparatus.

25. An apparatus comprising means for: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.

26. A method comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, measuring a plurality of synchronization signal block signals transmitted via one or more horizontal beams; determining at least one random access preamble based, at least partially, on measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting the at least one determined random access preamble; and determining a beam for network communication based, at least partially, on the measurements of the plurality of synchronization signal block signals.

27. A method comprising: during a transmission part of a synchronization signal block burst interval, transmitting a plurality of synchronization signal block signals to a user equipment via one or more horizontal beams; during a reception part of the synchronization signal block burst interval, monitoring for one or more random access preambles using a plurality of vertical beams; determining an initial angular direction of the user equipment based, at least partially, on the monitoring for the one or more random access preambles using the plurality of vertical beams; and selecting a beam for communication with the user equipment based, at least partially, on the initial angular direction.