(12) INTERNATIONAL APPLICATION PUBLISHED UNDER THE PATENT COOPERATION TREATY (PCT)

(19) World Intellectual Property

Organization llIIlIIlllIlIlllIlIllIllIllIIlIlllIlIIlllllllIlllIlIIllIlllIlIIlllIllIlIlIllIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII
International Bureau
(10) International Publication Number
(43) International Publication Date WO 2016/161629 A1
13 October 2016 (13.10.2016) WIPO PCT I

(51) International Patent Classification: (Sl) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every
H04W 72/04 (2009.01) H04L 1/1 6 (2006.01) kind of national protection available): AE, AG, AL, AM,
AO, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BH, BN, BR, BW, BY,
(21) International Application Number: BZ, CA, CH, CL, CN, CO, CR, CU, CZ, DE, DK, DM,
P CT/CN2015/076305
DO, DZ, EC, EE, EG, ES, FI, GB, GD, GE, GH, GM, GT,
(22) International Filing Date: HN, HR, HU, ID, IL, IN, IR, IS, JP, KE, KG, KN, KP, KR,
10 April 2015 (10.04.2015) KZ, LA, LC, LK, LR, LS, LU, LY, MA, MD, ME, MG,
MK, MN, MW, MX, MY, MZ, NA, NG, NI, NO, NZ, OM,
(25) Filing Language: English PA, PE, PG, PH, PL, PT, QA, RO, RS, RU, RW, SA, SC,
(26) Publication Language: English SD, SE, SG, SK, SL, SM, ST, SV, SY, TH, TJ, TM, TN,
TR, TT, TZ, UA, UG, US, UZ, VC, VN, ZA, ZM, ZW.
(71) Applicant (for all designated States except US): MEDI-
ATEK SINGAPORE PTE. LTD. [SG/SG]; ¹03-01 (S4) Designated States (unless otherwise indicated, for every
Solaris, No. I Fusionopolis Walk, Singapore 138628 (SG). kind of regional protection available): ARIPO (BW, GH,
GM, KE, LR, LS, MW, MZ, NA, RW, SD, SL, ST, SZ,
(72) Inventors; and TZ, UG, ZM, ZW), Eurasian (AM, AZ, BY, KG, KZ, RU,
(71) Applicants (for US only): WU, Min [CN/CN]; Room TJ, TM), European (AL, AT, BE, BG, CH, CY, CZ, DE,
1312, Building No. 208, North Shaoyaoju Lane, Chaoyang DK, EE, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, HR, HU, IE, IS, IT, LT, LU,
District, Beijing 100029 (CN). CHEN, Tao [CN/CN]; No. LV, MC, MK, MT, NL, NO, PL, PT, RO, RS, SE, SI, SK,
14, Chaoyangmen South St, Chaoyang District, Beijing SM, TR), OAPI (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GQ,
100020 (CN). CHEN, Huamin [CN/CN]; Room 1-1709, GW, KM, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG).
Building 602, Beiyuan Road 5th, Chaoyang District,
Beijing 100012 (CN). Published:

(74) Agent: BEIJING SANYOU INTELLECTUAL PROP-

ERTY AGENCY LTD. ; 16th FI.,Block A, Corporate
Square, No. 35 Jinrong Street, Beijing 100033 (CN).

(54) Title: METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PUCCH RESOURCE ALLOCATION OF MTC
(57) Abstract: A method of PUCCH resource alloca-
tion for a MTC device is disclosed, wherein compris-
ing: receiving a physical downlink data channel
210 (PDSCH); determining corresponding physical up-
link control channel (PUCCH) resource based on one
Receiving PDSCH or more following parameters used for the PDSCH
transmission: MTC band index, the lowest physical
resource block (PRB) index and antenna port index;
220 and transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the
determined PUCCH resource. A method of PUCCH
Determining corresponding PUCCH resource resource allocation for a MTC device is disclosed,
based on one or more following parameters used wherein comprising: receiving an initial PUCCH re-
for the PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, source value indicated in a DL MSG during a
the lowest PRB index and antenna port index PRACH procedure; transmitting PUCCH on the ini-
tial PUCCH resource; receiving a reconfigured
PUCCH resource value indicated in a higher layer
230 signaling; and transmitting PUCCH on the recon-
figured PUCCH resource.
Transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the
determined PUCCH resource

FIG. 2
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PUCCH RESOURCE

ALLOCATION OF MTC

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to wireless communications and, more

particularly, to methods for physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) resource allocation for
machine type communication (MTC) devices.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide various type of
communication content such as voice, data, and so on. These systems may be multiple-access
systems capable of supporting communication with multiple used by sharing the available system
resources (e.g. , bandwidth and transmit power). Example of such multiple-access systems include
code division multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems,
frequency division multiple access (FDMA systems). 3' Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)
Long Term Evolution (LTE) including LTE-Advanced systems and orthogonal frequency division

multiple access (OFDMA) systems.

[0003] Generally, a wireless multiple-access communication system can simultaneously

support communication for multiple wireless terminals. Each terminal communicates with one or

more base stations via transmission on the forward and reverse links. The forward link (or downlink)
refers to the communication link from the base stations to the terminals, and the reverse link (or

uplink) refers to the communication link from the terminals to the base stations. This
communication link may be established via a single-input single-output, multiple-input single-

output or a multiple-input multiple-out (MIMO) system.

[0004] Wireless devices may include user equipments (UEs). Some examples of UEs may
include cellular phones, smart phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless modems,
handheld devices, laptop computers, netbooks, etc. Some UEs may be considered machine type
communication (MTC) UEs, which may include remote devices such as sensors, meters, location
tags, etc. A remote device may communicate with a base station, another remote device, or some

other entity. Machine type communication (MTC) may refer to communication involving at least
one remote device on at least one end of the communication.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

SUMMARY

[0005] Methods and apparatus are provided herein for physical uplink control channel

(PUCCH) resource allocation. In one aspect, the methods can be applicable for machine type
communications (MTC) devices. In a further aspect, the methods can be applicable for non-MTC
devices.
[0006] In one novel aspect, a method for wireless communications which is performed, for
example, by a UE is provided. The method includes: receiving a physical downlink shared data

channel (PDSCH); determining corresponding PUCCH resource based on one or more following
parameters used for the PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, the lowest physical resource block
10 (PRB) index and antenna port index; and transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the

determined PUCCH resource.

[0007] In another novel aspect, a method for wireless communications which is performed,
for example, by a UE is provided. The method includes: receiving an initial PUCCH resource value
indicated in a DL message (MSG) during a PRACH procedure; transmitting DL ACK/NACK on
15 the initial PUCCH resource; receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value indicated in a higher
layer signaling; and transmitting DL ACK/NACK on the reconfigured PUCCH resource.
[0008] In yet another novel aspect, a method for wireless communications which is

performed, for example, by a UE is provided. The method generally includes: determining a

PUCCH resource based on one or more following parameters used for corresponding PDSCH
transmission: MTC band index, the lowest PRB index and antenna port index; transmitting
ACK/NACK of corresponding PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource; receiving a PUCCH
resource value indicated in a higher layer signaling; and transmitting DL ACK/NACK on the
indicated PUCCH resource.

[0009] In another novel aspect, an apparatus for wireless communications is provided. The

apparatus includes a receiver for receiving a PDSCH; a determiner for determining corresponding
PUCCH resource based on one or more following parameters used for the PDSCH transmission:
MTC band index, the lowest PRB index and antenna port index; and a transmitter for transmitting
ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource.
[00010] In another novel aspect, an apparatus for wireless communications is provided. The

30 apparatus includes a receiver for receiving an initial PUCCH resource value indicated in a DL MSG

during a PRACH procedure; a transmitter for transmitting DL ACK/NACK on the initial PUCCH
resource; the receiver is further used for receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value indicated
in a higher layer signaling; and the transmitter is further used for transmitting DL ACK/NACK on
the reconfigured PUCCH resource.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00011] So that the manner in which the above-recited features of the present invention can
be understood in detail, a more particular description, briefly summarized above, may be had by
reference to aspects, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted,
however, that the appended drawings illustrate only certain typical aspects of the invention and are

therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the description may admit to other equally

effective aspects.
[00012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram conceptually illustrating an example of wireless
communications system, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
10 [00013] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of implicit PUCCH resource allocation for MTC
devices, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[00014] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of PDSCH band specific PUCCH region allocation for
MTC devices, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.

[00015] FIG. 4 illustrates an example MTC band partition within 10 MHz system bandwidth.
15 [00016] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a common PUCCH region allocation for multiple
PDSCH bands for MTC devices, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present invention.
[00017] FIG. 6-7 illustrates examples of PUCCH frequency hopping for PUCCH repetition.
[00018] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of explicit PUCCH resource allocation for MTC
devices under coverage enhancement, in accordance with certain embodiments of the present

invention.

[00019] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of combining implicit and explicit PUCCH resource
allocation for MTC devices under coverage enhancement, in accordance with certain embodiments

of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00020] The present invention provides techniques and apparatus for determining physical
uplink control channel (PUCCH) resource for certain user equipments (e.g. low cost MTC UEs).
[00021] Several exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described with

reference to FIGs. 1 through 9. It is to be understood that the following invention provides various

embodiments as examples for implementing different features of the present invention. Specific
30 examples of components and arrangements are described in the following to simplify the present
invention. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition,
the present invention may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This

repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

between the various described embodiments and/or configurations.

[00022] The following description is of the best-contemplated mode of carrying out the
invention. This description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the

invention and should not be taken in a limiting sense. Note that the 3GPP specifications described
herein are used to teach the spirit of the invention, and the invention is not limited thereto.

[00023] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a wireless communications system

according to certain embodiment of the present invention. The wireless communications system 100
includes one or more fixed base units 110 and 111, forming one or more access networks 130 and
131 distributed over a geographical region. The access network 130 and 131 may be a Universal
10 Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) in the WCDMA technology or an E-UTRAN in the
Long Term Evolution (LTE)/LTE-A technology. The base unit may also be referred to an access
point, base station, Node-B, eNode-B (eNB), or other terminologies used in the art. In some
systems, one or more base stations are communicably coupled to a controller forming an access
network that is communicably coupled to one or more core networks.
15 [00024] In FIG. 1, the mobile communication network 100 is an OFDM/ OFDMA system
comprising eNB 110 and eNB 111, and a plurality of UE 120 and UE 121. When there is a
downlink data block to be sent from eNB to UE, each UE gets a downlink resource assignment, e. g. ,
a set of downlink radio resources indicated in downlink control information (DCI) which is
transmitted with a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH or EPDCCH). Thus, UEs receive

corresponding physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) in the set of downlink radio resources.
And then, UEs transmits DL HARQ-ACK with a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH)
according to detection results of corresponding PDSCH. When a UE needs to send an uplink data

block to base station, the UE gets a grant from the eNB that assigns a set of uplink radio resources,
i. e. an uplink grant convey by a DCI. Thus, the UE transmits corresponding physical uplink shared
channel (PUSCH) in the set of uplink radio resources, and eNB receives the PUSCH in the set of
downlink radio resources. And then, eNB transmits UL HARQ-ACK with a physical hybrid-ARQ
indicator channel (PHICH) according to detection results of the PUSCH.
[00025] In FIG. 1, one or more mobile stations 120 and 121 are connected wirelessly to base
stations 110 and 111 for wireless service within a serving area, for example, a cell or within a cell

30 sector. The mobile station may also be called user equipment (UE), a wireless communication
device, terminal or some other terminologies. Mobile station 120 and 121 send uplink data to base
stations 110 and 111 via uplink channel 140 and 141 in the time and/or frequency domain. The

serving base station 110 and 111 transmit downlink signals via a downlink channel 150 and 151.
[00026] In one embodiment, the communication system utilizes Orthogonal Frequency
35 Division Multiplexing Access (OFDMA) or a multi-carrier based architecture including Adaptive
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

Modulation and Coding (AMC) on the downlink and next generation single-carrier (SC) based
FDMA architecture for uplink transmissions. SC based FDMA architectures include Interleaved

FDMA (IFDMA), Localized FDMA (LFDMA), DFT-spread OFDM (DFT-SOFDM) with IFDMA
or LFDMA. In OFDMA based systems, remote units are served by assigning downlink or uplink
radio resources that typically comprises a set of sub-carriers over one or more OFDM symbols.
Exemplary OFDMA based protocols include the developing LTE/LTE-A of the 3GPP standard and

IEEE 802. 16 standard. The architecture may also include the use of spreading techniques such as
multi-carrier CDMA (MC-CDMA), multi-carrier direct sequence CDMA (MC-DS-CDMA),
Orthogonal Frequency and Code Division Multiplexing (OFCDM) with one or two dimensional
10 spreading, or may be based on simpler time and/or frequency division multiplexing/multiple access
techniques, or a combination of these various techniques.
[00027] In alternate embodiments, communication system may utilize other cellular
communication system protocols including, but not limited to, TDMA or direct sequence CDMA.
The invention however is not intended to be limited to any particular wireless communication
15 system.

[00028] In 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE) Release-
13, for low complexity machine type communication (MTC) UE (which is also called low cost
MTC UE, and hereinafter called low cost MTC UE), there are two main characteristics: low

complexity and coverage enhancement. Low complexity is used to save device cost for
improvement of market competitiveness. A main low complexity technology is to reduce the
bandwidth to 1.4 MHz for baseband and RF band. Thus, all physical channel transmissions of MTC
UEs are restricted within 6 contiguous PRBs. The 6 contiguous PRBs can be called as a MTC band
and there may be multiple MTC bands within system bandwidth. Coverage enhancement is to

provide a better coverage than normal coverage to enable MTC UEs to work under terrible
application environment. An absolute target maximum coupling loss (MCL) of 155.7dBm is
proposed for both Rel-13 low complexity MTC UE and other non-MTC UE operating delay tolerant
MTC applications. In order to achieve the target of coverage enhancement, repetition is necessary
for most physical channels.
[00029] For low cost MTC UE, cross-subframe scheduling has been agreed, and cross-

30 MTCband scheduling is also possible. Here, cross-subframe scheduling means PDCCH/EPDCCH

and associated PDSCH are not transmitted within the same subframe. Cross-MTCband scheduling
means PDCCH/EPDCCH and associated PDSCH are not transmitted within the same MTC band.

For cross- MTCband scheduling case, 1ms retuning time may be required to switch radio frequency
(RF) of MTC UEs from one MTC band for PDCCH/EPDCCH to another MTC band for PDSCH.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

[00030] Assuming PDCCH/EPDCCH is transmitted in subframe n, corresponding PDSCH

may be transmitted in subframe n+I for same- MTCband scheduling case or n+2 for cross-
MTCband scheduling case. This means the timing relationship between PDCCH/EPDCCH and

associated PDSCH may not be fixed. However, the timing relationship between PDSCH and
corresponding PUCCH is fixed, e.g. PUCCH is always transmitted in subframe n+4 assuming
corresponding PDSCH is transmitted in subframe n in FDD systems. Thus, the timing relationship

between PUCCH and corresponding PDCCH/EPDCCH may be different for same- MTCband
scheduling case (e.g. n+5) and cross-MTCband scheduling case (e.g. n+6). Due to the non-fixed
timing relationship, PUCCH resource collision may happen if reusing legacy PUCCH resource
10 determination, i.e. , PUCCH resource is determined based on the lowest control channel element
(CCE/ECCE) index of corresponding PDCCH/EPDCCH transmission. For example, CCE/ECCE
index in different subframes may correspond to the same PUCCH resource in a subframe for
multiple MTC UEs. Thus, PUCCH resources of the multiple MTC UEs collide.

[00031] To solve above problems of PUCCH resource collision, one solution may be eNB
15 handling with PDCCH/EPDCCH resource scheduling. For example, a CCE/ECCE shouldn't be
scheduled if PUCCH resource collision potentially happens, and the CCE/ECCE cannot be
scheduled for non-MTC UE if non-MTC UE and MTC UE cannot share a resource region for
PDCCH/EPDCCH resource scheduling. The restriction on PDCCH/EPDCCH resource scheduling
may result in a resource waste and enlarge the blocking probability. Another solution is to
determine PUCCH resource based on some parameters used for corresponding PDSCH
transmission since the timing relationship between PUCCH and corresponding PDSCH is fixed.
These parameters may be one or more of the following: MTC band index, the lowest PRB index

and antenna port index used for PDSCH transmission.

[00032] If the implicit PUCCH resource determination based on some parameters used for
corresponding PDSCH transmission is used for MTC UEs under coverage enhancement, PUCCH
resource collision may still happen due to PUCCH repetition. However, eNB handling with PDSCH
resource scheduling may be feasible to avoid PUCCH resource collision. For example, a PRB
which may potentially cause PUCCH resource collision can be scheduled for non-MTC UE, since
non-MTC UE and MTC-UE can share a MTC band for PDSCH resource scheduling. Since PDSCH
30 resource scheduling is more flexible than PDCCH/EPDCCH resource scheduling, eNB handling
with the former may be easier and better than the latter to avoid PUCCH resource collision.

[00033] In existing LTE specification, PUCCH repetition is supported. To avoid PUCCH

resource collision caused by PUCCH repetition, explicit PUCCH resource allocation is used for all
PUCCH subframes except the first PUCCH subframe wherein implicit PUCCH resource
35 determined based on the lowest CCE/ECCE index of corresponding PDCCH/EPDCCH
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

transmission is used. Explicit PUCCH resource allocation herein refers to that a PUCCH resource
value is configured by a higher layer signaling, i.e. UE-specific radio resource control (RRC)
signaling. This means eNB handling with explicit PUCCH resource allocation is directly used to

avoid PUCCH resource collision. For low cost MTC UEs under coverage enhancement, the explicit

PUCCH resource allocation can be reused. However, PUCCH resource allocation is still a problem
for HARQ-ACK feedback of PDSCH before receiving a higher layer signaling used for explicit
PUCCH resource configuration.
[00034] To solve above problem of PUCCH resource allocation, one solution may be to
indicate an initial PUCCH resource value in MSG4 during a PRACH procedure since MSG4 is the
10 first PDSCH requiring HARQ-ACK feedback during initial access. The initial PUCCH resource is
used until a reconfigured PUCCH resource value is indicated by a higher layer signaling. Another
solution is to apply implicit PUCCH resource determination until receiving an explicit PUCCH

resource value. The implicit PUCCH resource determination may be based on some parameters
used for corresponding PDSCH transmission.
15 Im licit PUCCH resource allocation

[00035] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of implicit PUCCH resource allocation for a MTC UE,
comprising: receiving a PDSCH; determining corresponding PUCCH resource based on one or
more following parameters used for the PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, the PRB index and
antenna port index; and transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the determined PUCCH
resource. The PUCCH resource herein means a logical resource, and PUCCH physical resource is
determined based on the logical resource. In one aspect, the method is used for a MTC UE under
normal coverage. In a further aspect, the method is used for a MTC UE or a non-MTC UE under

coverage enhancement.
[00036] In one embodiment, PUCCH resource is implicitly determined based on MTC band
index, the lowest PRB index and antenna port index used for corresponding PDSCH transmission
according to following equation (1) and (2). Equation (1) is used for FDD systems, and equation (2)

is used for TDD systems. In the embodiment, multiple MTC bands for PDSCH correspond to a
common PUCCH region as shown in FIG. 3. In other words, the common PUCCH region is shared

by all MTC UEs served by the multiple MTC bands.

PDSCH g PDSCH PDSCH
30 PUCCH MT' „J
d
+ Pgg + g„/ „„P + ~gag +
/ PUCCH

m —1
PDSCH g6 PDSCH PDSCH
HPHCCH HBHCR d +HPRB +HA W + Q+PRB I + ~ABC + +PHCCH (2)
i=0
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

[00037] Regarding n~~~ „J in equation (I) and (2), it denotes the MTC band index used for

PDSCH transmission, n~~~. „d =0, 1,L, N~~~ „J —1. Here, N~~~. „d denotes the number of MTC
bands allocated for PDSCH transmission of MTC UEs within DL system bandwidth.

[00038] In one embodiment, the value of N~~~ „J is a variable, and it is broadcasted in a

system information block (SIB) dedicated for MTC UEs, and it is selected from a predefined set,
e.g. il, 2, 4, 8, 16). And, an indicator of physical resource location of each allocated MTC band
should be accompanying with the value of N~~~. „d, i.e. , they are included in an information

element (IE). In one example, the physical resource location of MTC band can be flexibly
scheduled by network, e.g. the starting PRB of MTC band may be any one PRB within system
10 bandwidth. In one example, the physical resource location of MTC band is predefined, e.g. system
bandwidth is divided into multiple MTC bands according to a predefined rule.

[00039] In one embodiment, the value of N~~~ „J is a predefined value depending on the

system bandwidth, and physical resource location of each MTC band is also predefined. The system
bandwidth is divided into multiple MTC bands according to a predefined rule, e. g. central carrier
15 frequency of MTC band should be integral multiples of 100 kHz. And, eNB may use one or several
MTC bands within the multiple MTC bands for PDSCH transmission of MTC UEs. FIG. 4
illustrates an example of MTC band partition within 10 MHz system bandwidth including 50 PRBs.

In the example, MTC bands are numbered from low frequency to high frequency. In order to ensure
central carrier frequency of each MTC band to be integral multiples of 100 kHz, there is an

overlapping PRB between any two adjacent MTC bands. For example, the PRB 17 is included in
MTC band k and MTC band i+ I in FIG. 4.
[00040] The number of MTC bands allocated by an eNB should depend on the number of
MTC UEs connected to the eNB and traffic quantity of these MTC UEs. For example, a large
number of MTC UEs need more MTC bands for data transmission. One MTC band should be

separately configured for DL data transmission and UL data transmission. The ratio of the number

of UL MTC bands to the number of DL MTC bands can be semi-statically adjusted to match actual
traffic status of all connected MTC UEs, and its effect is similar to UL-DL configuration in TDD

systems. In addition, one MTC band should be separately configured for each physical channel. For
example, PDCCH/EPDCCH and PDSCH may be transmitted within different MTC bands, and

30 PUCCH and PUSCH may be transmitted within different MTC bands.

[00041] In one embodiment, the value of n~~~ „J is dynamically indicated in DCI. A

special DCI field is used to indicate the value of n~~, "„„and the size of the DCI field depends on
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

the value of N~~~ „J, e.g. 2 information bits indicate one from four MTC bands configured by

higher layers.

[00042] In one embodiment, the value of n~~~ „J is semi-statically configured by higher

layers. The configuration of MTC band for PDSCH should include two types: common and

dedicated, i.e. two IEs respectively for MTCBandForPDSCH-ConfigCommon and

MTCBandForPDSCH-ConfigDedicated. The initial configuration should be the common

configuration broadcasted in a SIB dedicated for MTC UEs. And then, the initial configuration can
be replaced by a dedicated configuration indicated in a higher layer signaling, e.g. UE-specific RRC

signaling. In other words, a common configuration is used until a dedicated configuration is

activated. In one example, the dedicated configuration may not be signaled, and the common

configuration is always used.

[00043] Regarding np~~ in equation (1) and (2), it denotes the lowest PRB index in the first

slot of corresponding PDSCH transmission within MTC band, i.e. n~~~ =0, 1,L, 5. In TDD

systems, nag is the lowest PRB index in the first slot of corresponding adjacent PDSCH

transmission within DL association set (as shown in table 1). In other words, np~ is the lowest

PRB index in the first slot of corresponding PDSCH transmission in subframe n —k, and k is the

smallest value in the DL association set E such that UE detects a PDSCH transmission within

subframe(s) n —k and k cE, m=0, 1,L, M —1.

Table 1. Downlink association set index E: Ikp k, L kM, I for TDD systems

UI /DI
Conflinration

7, 6 7, 6
8, 7, 4, 6 8, 7, 4, 6
7, 6, 11 6, 5 5, 4
12, 8, 7, 11 6, 5, 4, 7
13, 12, 9, 8, 7, 5, 4, 11, 6

[00044] In one embodiment, the method illustrated in FIG. 2 is used for a MTC UE or a non-

MTC UE under coverage enhancement wherein most physical channels need to be repeated.
PDSCH repetition means a PDSCH is transmitted on multiple subframes. If frequency hopping is

applied to reduce repetition number of PDSCH, the PRB(s) used for the PDSCH transmission may

be different within the multiple subframes. In the case, the lowest PRB index np~
" denotes the

physical location in the first slot of a certain subframe within the multiple subframes. In one
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
10

example, the certain subframe is the first subframe within the multiple subframes. In another

example, the certain subframe is the ending subframe within the multiple subframes.

[00045] Regarding n~„,', „„~„,in equation (1) and (2), it is determined from the antenna port

used for corresponding PDSCH transmission as shown in table 2. And it is just used for PDSCH
with DMRS-based transmission mode wherein PDSCH demodulation is based on DMRS. If the
PDSCH is transmitted with CRS-based transmission mode wherein PDSCH demodulation is based

~„, = 0. Introducing
on CRS, n~„,',„„. antenna port index into PUCCH resource determination is to

avoid PUCCH resource collision for multi-user MIMO wherein the same PRB(s) are scheduled for
multiple UEs.

Table 2. Mapping of antenna port used for PDSCH to n' values

Normal c clic refix Extended c clic refix

10 13

12
13
14

[00046] Regarding NpUppH in equation (1) and (2), it denotes PUCCH resource starting

offset configured by higher layers. Since one PUCCH region is shared by all connected MTC UEs,
the value of N~UppH should be indicated in a SIB dedicated for MTC UE. And UE-specific

configuration on N is unnecessary.

[00047] Regal dlilg Nag p

in equation ( 1 ) and (2), it denotes the total PRB number within

multiple MTC bands for PDSCH transmission of MTC UEs in subframe n —k,. in TDD systems.

Generally, the allocated number of MTC bands should be the same for each MTC subframe, i.e.

N~~~. „d . If subframe n —k,. can be scheduled for PDSCH transmission of MTC UEs,

N~~„, = N~~~. „J*6.Otherwise, N~~~„, = 0, e.g. a special subframe with special subframe

configuration 0 or 5 for normal downlink cyclic prefix (CP), and a special subframe with special
subframe configuration 0 or 4 or 7 for extended downlink CP.
[00048] Regarding A~« in equation (1) and (2), it is determined from the HARQ-ACK

resource offset field in the DCI format of the corresponding physical downlink control channel as

shown in table 3. The value of A, « is used for PUCCH resource compression. For example,
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305

PUCCH resource is compressed within multiple PDSCH bands for FDD systems, and within

multiple DL associated subframes for TDD systems. In one example, A, « is removed in equation

(1) and (2).

Table 3. Mapping of ARO (ACK/NACK Resource Offset) field in DCI to A, «values

ARO field in DCI

t+ccccc i) q6
MTCBand
P+cm,
i=0
. c,

PDSCH
MTCBand

2 =- /21

PDSCH
MTCBand

3 =- /31
+ccc, . k,

[00049] In one embodiment, PUCCH resource is implicitly determined based on the lowest
PRB index and the antenna port index used for corresponding PDSCH transmission according to
following equation (3) and (4). Equation (3) is used for FDD systems, and equation (4) is used for

TDD systems. In the embodiment, each MTC band corresponds to a PUCCH region as shown in
FIG. 5. In other words, there are multiple PUCCH regions and each PUCCH region is shared by a
group of MTC UEs sharing the same MTC band for PDSCH transmission.
PDSCH PDSCH
iPUCCH iPBB + ig i P i + ~PRO + NPUCCH (3)

ct ccc = cc8 +
PDSCH
s. -.~- +P+cc8; k, +
PDSCH

i=0
s c++ctccc c(4)
[00050] Regarding nPBB Tld ~ NPUccH and NPBB p
in equation (3) and (4),

corresponding interpretation is same to that in above equation (1) and (2). Here, NP~. , =6 if
subframe n —k,. is a MTC subframe which can be scheduled for PDSCH transmission of MTC UEs.

Otherwise, N „„,=0.
[00051] In the embodiment, since each PDSCH band corresponds to one PUCCH region, the

value of NPUccH is configured accompanying with PDSCH band configuration, i.e. they are

included in the same IE. In one example, multiple MTC bands for PDSCH and corresponding

NPUccH are configured in a SIB dedicated for MTC UEs. For each MTC band, corresponding value

of NPUccH is used regardless of whether the MTC band is semi-statically or dynamically configured.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
12

In another example, a MTC band for PDSCH and corresponding N»«H are configured by higher
layers. Configuration of the IE including MTC band for PDSCH and corresponding N»«H is
similar to above description on configuration of MTC band for PDSCH, i.e. a common
configuration and a dedicated configuration. The common configuration is broadcasted in a SIB
dedicated for MTC UEs, and the dedicated configuration is indicated in a higher layer signaling, e.g.
UE-specific RRC signaling.
[00052] Regarding A~« in equation (3) and (4), it is determined from ARO field in DCI as

shown in table 4. Considering UE-specific MTC band configuration for PDSCH transmission, the

same PRB may correspond to different PRB indexes for different MTC UEs. In other words, there

may be resource overlapping between two MTC bands configured for different MTC UEs. In this

case, PUCCH resource collision may happen. The value of A, «can be used to adjust PUCCH

resource to avoid the collision. In TDD systems, the value of A, «can be further used to compress

PUCCH resources within multiple DL associated subframe in time domain. In one example, A~«

is removed in equation (3) and (4).

Table 4. Mapping of ARO (ACK/NACK Resource Offset) field in DCI to A» values

ARO field in DCI A»o in FD:D systems A»o in TDD spstel118

P +~~a, .
i=0

[00053] If PUCCH resource allocation is determined based on some parameters used for
corresponding PDSCH transmission, PUCCH resource may be a problem for a PDCCH/EPDCCH
without associated PDSCH if the PDCCH/EPDCCH requires a DL HARQ-ACK feedback, e.g.
downlink semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) release. In one embodiment, for SPS release, an invalid
DCI field is used to indicate a PUCCH resource. For example, the TPC command for PUCCH field
can be used as an index to one of the four PUCCH resource values configured by higher layers with
the mapping as shown in table 5.
Table 5: PUCCH resource value for downlink SPS release
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
13

Value of 'TPC commaud

for I'UCCH' PUCCH

toot The first PUCCH resource value confi ured b the hi her la ers
toll The second PUCCH resource value confi ured b the hi her la ers
t lot The third PUCCH resource value confi ured b the hi her la ers
The fourth PUCCH resource value confi ured b the hi her la ers

[00054] Based on the implicitly determined logical resource for PUCCH, physical resource
for PUCCH transmission is further determined based on the logical resource. In FIG. 2, transmitting
ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource in the step 230 further comprising:
determining a PRB index used for PUCCH transmission based on the determined PUCCH resource;
determining a MTC band used for PUCCH transmission; and transmitting the ACK/NACK in a

certain PRB within the determined MTC band;

[00055] Legacy PUCCH is transmitted on two edges of the system bandwidth, and the

allocated PRBs in the first slot and the second slot are mirrored. The cross-slot frequency hopping
on two edges of system bandwidth can generally achieve significant frequency diversity gain.
However, the frequency diversity gain achieved by cross-slot frequency hopping on two edges of
MTC band may be very limited since one MTC band just comprises 6 contiguous PRBs. In addition,
cross-slot frequency hopping within MTC band may cause resource segmentation considering
localized resource allocation for PUSCH. Therefore, a reasonable design for narrow band PUCCH
of MTC UEs should be that the PRB used for PUCCH transmission is the same in the first slot and
in the second slot, i. e. no cross-slot frequency hopping.

[00056] For a MTC UE under normal coverage, periodic CSI report should be supported.
Thus, legacy PUCCH formats 2/2a/2b should be reused. For a MTC UE or a non-MTC UE under

coverage enhancement, periodic CSI report may not be supported considering channel quality
doesn't change frequently under ultra-low SINR. In one embodiment, a PRB index used for

PUCCH transmission nP~ is determined based on a PUCCH resource value npUccH and some

parameters configured by higher layers according to following equation (5) and (6). Equation (5) is
used for a MTC UE under normal coverage, wherein mix of PUCCH formats 1/la/lb and formats

2/2a/2b is supported. Equation (6) is used for a MTC UE or a non-MTC UE under coverage
enhancement, wherein PUCCH formats 2/2a/2b are not supported.
~(2) if 2PUCCH + C ' +(1) / / ~PUCCH
hift

+Pea
PUCCH Af(1) / APUCCH
"cs
~(t)
PUCCH
~RB /gPUCCH
/ shift
+ ~(2) cs
otherwise
sc / shift 8

PUCCH PUCCH
n PRB
NRB /APUCCH (6)
sc / shift
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
14

[00057] Regarding c, it refers to the number of orthogonal sequences for spreading in time

domain, and c = 3 for normal CP and c = 2 for extended CP.

[00058] Regarding N. . . it refers to the number of subcarriers included by a resource block

(RB) and generally N, , =12.

[00059] Regarding A„f, , it refers to a step of cyclic shift in frequency domain for PUCCH

formats 1/la/lb. Thus, the maximum number of available PUCCH resources in a PRB is

[c 'J.
N~~ /it", „~u The value of d, „r is broadcasted in a SIB dedicated for MTC UEs, and it is

within the range of i0, 1, . . . , 7).

[00060] Regarding N~i' in equation (5), it refers the number of PRBs that are available for

10 PUCCH formats 2/2a/2b transmission in each slot. The value of N~i' is broadcasted in a SIB
dedicated for MTC UEs.

[00061] Regarding "

N,', in equation (5), it refers to the number of cyclic shift used for
PUCCH formats 1/la/lb in a PRB used for a mix of formats 1/la/lb and 2/2a/2b. The value of N,',"

is broadcasted in a SIB dedicated for MTC UEs, and it is an integer multiple of A„f . No mixed

15 resource block is present if N,'," = 0. At most one PRB in each slot supports a mix of formats
1/1 a/lb and 2/2a/2b.

[00062] Interpreting the physical location of np~~ depends on whether there is a MTC

band configured for PUCCH transmission or not. If a MTC band is configured for PUCCH

transmission, nag refers to the physical location within the MTC band, i.e. nag: 01A 5 If
no MTC band configured for PUCCH transmission, np~ refers to the physical location within

UL system bandwidth, i.e. npg~g:01 A Nag 1 Here, Np, ', denotes the number of PRBs
within UL system bandwidth.

[00063] In one embodiment, a MTC band is semi-statically allocated by network for PUCCH

transmission of a MTC UE, and the PRB index nag determined based on a PUCCH resource

value refers to the physical location within the MTC band, i. e. nag —0, 1,A, 5. In one
npUppH

example, the semi-statically allocated MTC band is dedicated for PUCCH transmission, i.e.
PUCCH and PUSCH may be transmitted on different MTC bands. In another example, the semi-

statically configured MTC band is shared by PUCCH and PUSCH of a MTC UE. Regarding
configuration of MTC band for PUCCH, it is similar to above description of MTC band for PDSCH,
30 i. e. common configuration broadcasted in a SIB and dedicated configuration indicated in a UE-
specific RRC signaling.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
15

[00064] In the embodiment, signaling overhead can be reduced since the maximum number

of PUCCH resources included in a MTC band is a lot smaller than that in UL system bandwidth.

Considering c = 3, N, , =12 —1, the maximum number of PUCCH resources included

and A„f
in a MTC band is 6*3*12/1=216. Thus, signaling overhead for PUCCH resource related

configuration can be reduced. For example, information bits of NBB' can be reduced to 3bits from

7bits, i. e. legacy range io, 1, . . . . , 98) is reduced to io, 1, . . . , 4). Information bits of NPUccH can be

reduced to 8bits from 1 lbits, i.e. legacy range io, 1, . . . , 2047) is reduced to io, 1, . . . , 215).
[00065] For PUCCH repetition under coverage enhancement, frequency hopping can be used
to reduce repetition number for power consumption reduction. If a MTC band is configured for
PUCCH, frequency hopping interval is in terms of MTC band, i.e. PUCCH is transmitted over
H
multiple MTC bands. And the relative physical location of the PRB (i.e nP~ ) should be the same

within the multiple MTC bands.

[00066] In one embodiment, PUCCH is transmitted over two MTC bands as shown in FIG. 6,

wherein n~cB J is called as initial band and n~~~ Jis called as hopping band. And PUCCH is
transmitted in the same PRB in the two MTC bands. In one example, the two MTC bands are
configured by higher layers as initial band n~cB „J and hopping band n~~~ „J respectively. In one

example, one MTC band is configured by higher layers as initial MTC band n~cB „J, and hopping

band n~~~ „J is implicitly determined based on a predefined rule and initial band n~cB „J.

[00067] In one example, the predefined rule for determining n~~, "„, is based on mirror

pattern according to equation (7). In one example, the predefined rule is based on a fixed interval

according to equation (8), wherein the fixed interval is [N~~~~~"„a/2J . Regarding N~~~~"„a in

equation (7) and (8), it denotes the number of MTC bands for PUCCH within UL system bandwidth.

Similar to above description of MTC bands for PDSCH. The value of N~cB „J may be broadcasted
in a SIB dedicated for MTC UEs, or a predefined value depending on UL system bandwidth.

rPUCCH PUCCH PUCCH

MTCBand MTCBand MTCBand (7)

= "'"'
nvrr~~~~„"~
(l Nvrrrca. "„a/2 J + nvrrrca. "„a) Nvrrrc„"', „", (8)

[00068] In one embodiment, there is no MTC band configured for PUCCH, and a PRB index

nPBB determined based on PUCCH resource denotes physical location of the PRB within UL
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
16

system bandwidth, i.e. npRB 01 A Np~ 1. And a MTC band including the PRB is selected as

RF band for PUCCH transmission. In one example, the MTC band is selected from multiple

predefined MTC bands, e. g. UL system bandwidth is divided into multiple MTC bands according to
a predefined rule. The predefined rule is that central carrier frequency of each MTC band should be

integral multiples of 100kHz as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[00069] If a single MTC band includes the PRB, the single MTC band is selected as RF band.
If multiple MTC bands include the PRB, one of the multiple MTC bands is selected as RF band. In

one example, selecting one of the multiple MTC bands is up to UE implementation. In one example,
selecting one of
10 the multiple MTC bands is based on a predefined rule. For example, the predefined rule may be
selecting one with a smaller MTC band index, selecting one with a larger MTC band index, or
selecting one with a smaller duplex distance in the subframe used for PUCCH transmission for a
full-duplex UE in FDD systems.

[00070] If there is no MTC band configured for PUCCH, frequency hopping interval may be
15 in terms of PRB, i.e. PUCCH is transmitted over multiple PRBs. In one embodiment, PUCCH is

transmitted over two PRBs as shown in FIG. 7, wherein npRB is called as initial PRB and

n~~"" is called as hopping PRB. In one example, initial PRB np„"" is determined based on

PUCCH resource according to equation (5) or (6), and hopping PRB npRB is implicitly

determined based on a predefined rule and initial PRB npRB In one example, the predefined rule

is based on mirror pattern according to equation (9). In one example, the predefined rule is based on

a fixed interval according to equation (10), wherein the fixed interval is [N,",'„/2 J . Regarding N,",'„
in equation (9) and (10), it denotes the number of PRB within UL system bandwidth.

r PUCCH N f UB PUCCH
PRB PRB PRB (9)

PIlccH PUCCH
0) Nn
([NUA /2J + ) (10)

Ex licit PUCCH resource allocation

[00071] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of explicit PUCCH allocation for a MTC UE under
coverage enhancement, comprising: receiving an initial PUCCH resource value indicated in a DL
MSG during a PRACH procedure; transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the initial PUCCH resource;
receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value indicated in a higher layer signaling; and

30 transmitting DL ACK/NACK on the reconfigured PUCCH resource.

 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
17

[00072] In the example, the purpose of triggering the PRACH procedure is for RRC
connection setup when initial access or RRC connection re-setup when radio link failure. The

PRACH procedure comprises MSG1, MSG2, MSG3, and MSG4. MSG1 is a PRACH preamble
transmitted by a UE on a PRACH resource, wherein the PRACH preamble and the PRACH

resource are randomly selected by the UE. MSG2 is a RACH response (RAR) transmitted by eNB
on PDSCH addressed to a RA-RNTI which is determined based on the selected PRACH resource.
In MSG2, PRACH preamble(s) successfully detected by eNB and corresponding information are
transmitted, e. g. temporary C-RNTI, timing advance value, and UL grant resource of MSG3. MSG3
is a PUSCH transmitted by the UE with the temporary C-RNTI, wherein UE ID is conveyed for
10 contention resolution. MSG4 is a PDSCH transmitted by eNB with contention resolution message
to UE whose message is successfully received in MSG3. During the PRACH procedure, MSG4 is
the first PDSCH requiring HARQ-ACK feedback.

[00073] In FIG. 8, the initial PUCCH resource value is signaled during the PRACH

procedure and it is used until receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value. Different from the
15 initial PUCCH resource value, the reconfigured PUCCH resource value is indicated in a UE-

specific RRC signaling. And the reconfigured PUCCH resource value should replace the initial one.
In one example, eNB may not reconfigure PUCCH resource value, and the initial PUCCH resource
value is always used.

[00074] In one embodiment, the DL MSG is MSG4, i.e. the initial PUCCH value is indicated

in MSG4. If the MSG4 is not successfully detected, the initial PUCCH resource value is not known
and the NACK of MSG4 cannot be transmitted. Therefore, eNB cannot distinguish the NACK and

DTX of MSG4. If MSG4 is successfully detected, the initial PUCCH resource value is known and
the ACK of MSG4 can be transmitted. So, there is only ACK transmission on the initial PUCCH

resource for MSG4. Based on the phenomenon, eNB can use an optimized algorithm to improve the
ACK detection performance of MSG4, e. g. using energy information rather than phase information
when performing demodulation.

[00075] In one embodiment, the DL MSG is MSG2, i.e. the initial PUCCH resource value is

indicated in MSG2. Regardless of whether MSG4 is successfully detected or not, the initial PUCCH

resource value is known. In this case, the NACK of MSG4 can be transmitted on the initial PUCCH

30 resource. Thus, the NACK and DTX of MSG4 can be distinguished, and corresponding
retransmission strategies at eNB side may be different. For example, if DTX is detected by eNB,
retransmission of physical downlink control channel associated with MSG4 may ensure a better
detection performance than corresponding initial transmission, e.g. using a larger aggregation level
or a larger repetition level.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
18

[00076] In one embodiment, an initial PUCCH repetition number is explicitly indicated in a

DL MSG during a PRACH procedure, and the initial PUCCH repetition number is accompanying
with PUCCH resource in the DL MSG. In one example, the DL MSG is MSG4. In another example,

the DL MSG is MSG2.

[00077] In one embodiment, an initial PUCCH repetition number is implied by the repetition

level of PRACH resource selected by the MTC UE. For example, a mapping table of PUCCH
repetition number and PRACH repetition number is used to determine the initial PUCCH repetition
number. The mapping table may be specified in specification, or broadcasted in a SIB dedicated for

MTC UEs.
10 [00078] Similarly, the initial PUCCH repetition number indicated in a DL MSG during a
PRACH procedure or implied by PRACH repetition level can be replaced by a reconfigured
PUCCH repetition number. In other words, the initial PUCCH repetition number is used until

receiving a reconfigured PUCCH repetition number indicated in a UE-specific higher layer

signaling. In one example, the reconfigured PUCCH repetition number is accompanying with

15 reconfigured PUCCH resource in the UE-specific higher layer signaling, i. e. they are included in an
IE. In one example, PUCCH repetition number and PUCCH resource value are separately

reconfigured by higher layers.

Combination of im licit and ex licit PUCCH resource allocation

[00079] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of combining implicit and explicit PUCCH resource
allocation for a MTC UE or a non-MTC UE under coverage enhancement, comprising: determining
PUCCH resource based on one or more following parameters used for corresponding PDSCH
transmission: MTC band index, the lowest PRB index, and antenna port index; transmitting the

ACK/NACK of corresponding PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource; receiving a PUCCH

resource value indicated in a higher layer signaling; and transmitting DL ACK/NACK on the

indicated PUCCH resource.

[00080] In the example, implicit PUCCH resource allocation is applied until receiving a
PUCCH resource value configured by UE-specific RRC signaling. The implicit PUCCH resource
allocation refers to the method illustrated in FIG. 2, i.e. determining PUCCH resource based on
some parameters used for corresponding PDSCH transmission. Due to PUCCH repetition, PUCCH
30 resource collision may happen when applying the implicit PUCCH resource allocation, e.g. the
same PRB is scheduled for PDSCH transmission of different MTC UEs in different subframes.
Fortunately, eNB handling with PDSCH resource scheduling may be feasible to avoid PUCCH
resource collision, e.g. a PRB which may potentially cause PUCCH resource collision is scheduled
for non-MTC UE. However, this will cause some restriction on PDSCH resource scheduling.
35 Therefore, a PUCCH resource value should be explicitly signaled by a higher layer signaling as
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
19

soon as possible to avoid the restriction on PDSCH resource scheduling. While the present
invention and the best modes thereof have been described in a manner establishing possession and
enabling those of ordinary skill to make and use the same, it will be understood and appreciated that

there are equivalents to the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein and that modifications and

variations may be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventions, which
are to be limited not by the exemplary embodiments but by the appended claims.

[00081] Those with skill in the art will understand that information and signals may be
represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data,
instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced

10 throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves,
magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[00082] Those with skill in the art will further appreciate that the various illustrative logical
blocks, modules, processors, means, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the
aspects disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware (e.g. , a digital implementation,
15 an analog implementation, or a combination of the two, which may be designed using source coding
or some other technique), various forms of program or design code incorporating instructions

(which may be referred to herein, for convenience, as "software" or a "software module" ), or

combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various

illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in
terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software
depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.
Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular
application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure

from the scope of the present invention.

[00083] In addition, the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in
connection with the aspects disclosed herein may be implemented within or performed by an
integrated circuit ("IC"), an access terminal, or an access point. The IC may comprise a general
purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit

(ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate
30 or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, electrical components, optical components,
mechanical components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described
herein, and may execute codes or instructions that reside within the IC, outside of the IC, or both.
A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be
any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be
35 implemented as a combination of computing devices, e. g. , a combination of a DSP and a
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
20

microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a

DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[00084] It is understood that any specific order or hierarchy of steps in any disclosed process
is an example of a sample approach. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the

specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged while remaining within the
scope of the present invention. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various
steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[00085] The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the aspects

disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a

processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module (e.g. , including executable
instructions and related data) and other data may reside in a data memory such as RAM memory,

flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a
removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of computer-readable storage medium known in the
art. A sample storage medium may be coupled to a machine such as, for example, a
computer/processor (which may be referred to herein, for convenience, as a "processor") such that
the processor can read information (e.g. , code) from and write information to the storage medium.
A sample storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium
may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in user equipment. In the alternative, the processor

and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in user equipment. Moreover, in some
aspects any suitable computer-program product may comprise a computer-readable medium

comprising codes relating to one or more of the aspects of the invention. In some aspects a
computer program product may comprise packaging materials.

[00086] While the invention has been described in connection with various aspects, it will be
understood that the invention is capable of further modifications. This application is intended to
cover any variations, uses or adaptation of the invention following, in general, the principles of the
invention, and including such departures from the present invention as come within the known and
customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains.
 WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
21

CLAIMS

1. A method of physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) resource allocation for a machine
type communication (MTC) device, comprising:
receiving a physical downlink data channel (PDSCH);
determining corresponding PUCCH resource based on one or more following parameters used
for the PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, the lowest physical resource block (PRB) index and
antenna port index; and

transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the MTC band index used for PDSCH transmission is
10 indicated in downlink control information (DCI).
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the MTC band index used for PDSCH transmission is
indicated in a higher layer signaling.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the lowest PRB index refers to the physical location
within the MTC band in the first slot used for PDSCH transmission.

15 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the lowest PRB index refers to be the subframe within the
multiple subframes, or the last subframe within the multiple subframes.
6. A method of PUCCH resource allocation for a MTC device, comprising:
receiving an initial PUCCH resource value indicated in a DL MSG during a PRACH

procedure;
transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the initial PUCCH resource;
receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value indicated in a higher layer signaling;
transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the reconfigured PUCCH resource.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the DL MSG is MSG 4.
8. The method of claim 6, wherein the DL MSG is MSG 2.
9. A method of PUCCH resource allocation for a MTC device, comprising:
determining a PUCCH resource based on one or more following parameters used for
corresponding PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, the lowest PRB index and antenna port
index;
transmitting ACK/NACK of corresponding PDSCH on the determined PUCCH resource;
30 receiving a PUCCH resource value indicated in a higher layer signaling; and
transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the indicated PUCCH resource.

35
WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
1/4

110

140
/ station &~ 130
/ 111
I 141

l 20: Mobile
station
150
station t
131

ioo
4t; Mobile
——-station
~&st
121

FIG. 1

210

Receiving PDSCH

220

Determining corresponding PUCCH resource

based on one or more following parameters used
for the PDSCH transmission: MTC band index,
the lowest PRB index and antenna port index

230

Transmitting ACK/NACK of the PDSCH on the

determined PUCCH resource

FIG. 2

310
330 350
A MTC band A PUCCH resource 0
for PDSCH

0O
o

320

A MTC band
for PDSCH
A PUCCH resource
340

FIG. 3
WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
2/4

PRB
27

PRB
26

nl PRB
+
25 System earner
F kHz
ct PRB
24

PRB
23

PRB
22

PRB
21

PRB
MTC band earner 20
F-900 kHz
PRB
19

PRB
18

PRB
17

PRB
16

PRB
15
MTC band earner
F-1800 kHz
PRB
14

PRB
13

PRB
12

FIG. 4
WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
3/4

530 570
510
A PUCCH resource 0
A MTC band z
for PDSCH O
O
CL
A PUCCH resource
540

550 580
520
A PUCCH resource 0
0
A MTC band Z
for PDSCH O
O
CL
A PUCCH resource
560
FIG. 5

PUCCH

RU
PUCCTT
E n MTCBRnd
0
0
RB

CT
RB

LL

iPUCCU
MTCBo d

Time domain

FIG. 6

PUCCH

PHCCH
PR R

E
0
0
iPUCCTT
nPRB
0
&D

LL

Time domain
FIG. 7
WO 2016/161629 PC T/CN2015/076305
4/4

810

Receiving an initial PUCCH resource value indicated

in a DL MSG during a PRACH procedure

820

Transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the initial PUCCH

reosurce

830

Receiving a reconfigured PUCCH resource value

indicated in a higher layer signaling

840

Transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the reconfigured

PUCCH resource

FIG. 8

910

Determining a PUCCH resource based on one or

more following parameters used for corresponding
PDSCH transmission: MTC band index, the lowest
PRB index and antenna port index

920

Transmitting ACK/NACK of corresponding PDSCH

on the determined PUCCH resource

930

Receiving a PUCCH resource value indicated in a

higher layer signaling

940

Transmitting DL HARQ-ACK on the indicated

PUCCH resource

FIG. 9
 INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT International application No.

PCT/CN2015/076305

A. CLASSIFICATION OF SUBJECT MATTER

H04W 72/04(2009. 01)i; H04L 1/16(2006. 01)i

According to International Patent Classification (IPC) or to both national classification and IPC

B. FIELDS SEARCHED
Minimum documentation searched (classification system followed by classification symbols)
H04W; H04Q; H04L

Documentation searched other than minimum documentation to the extent that such documents are included in the fields searched

Electronic data base consulted during the international search (name of data base and, where practicable, search terms used)
WPI, EPODOC, CNPAT, CNKI:PUCCH, MTC, PDSCH, determine, band index, PRB,port index, ACK, NACK, HARQ-ACK,
PRACH, signaling, allocate

C. DOCUMENTS CONSIDERED TO BE RELEVANT

Category ~ Citation of document, with indication, where appropriate, of the relevant passages Relevant to claim No.

US 2012300741 Al (HAN, SEUNGHEE ET AL. ) 29 November 2012 (2012-11-29) 1-9

description, paragraphs [0007], [0187], [0325]
A CN 102170338 A (CHINA ACADEMY OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY) 1-9
31 August 2011 (2011-08-31)
the whole doucment

A CN 101489255 A (ZTE CORPORATION) 22 July 2009 (2009-07-22) 1-9

the whole document

Further documents are listed in the continuation of Box C. See patent family annex.

Special categories of cited documents:

document defining the general state of the ari which is not considered later document published atter the international filing date or priority
to be of particular relevance date and not in conflict with the application but cited to understand the
principle or theory underlying the invention
..E„earlier application or patent but published on or after the international
filing date document of particular relevance; the claimed invention cannot be
considered novel or cannot be considered to involve an inventive step
document which may throw doubts on priority claim(s) or which is when the document is taken alone
cited to establish the publication date of another citation or other
special reason (as specified) document of particular relevance; the claimed invention cannot be
considered to involve an inventive step when the document is
document referring to an oral disclosure, use, exhibition or other combined with one or more other such documents, such combination
means being obvious to a person skilled in the ari
document published prior to the international filing date but later than document rnernber of the same patent family
the priority date claimed

Date of the actual completion of the international search Date of mailing of the international search report

08 December 2015 07 January 2016

Name and mailing address of the ISA/CN Authorized officer

STATE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OFFICE OF THE

P.R.CHINA
SUN, Zhifei
6, Xitucheng Rd. , Jimen Bridge, Haidian District, Beijing
100088, China
Facsimile No. (86-10)62019451 Telephone No. (86-10)62413325
Form PCT/ISA/210 (second sheet) (July 2009)
 INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT International application No.
Information on patent family members
PCT/CN2015/076305

Patent document Publication date Publication date

Patent family member(s)
cited in search report (day/month/year) (day/month/year)

US 2012300741 Al 29 November 2012 CN 102742206 A 17 October 2012

CA 2786987 Al 21 July 2011
WO 2011087315 A2 21 July 2011
WO 2011087314 A2 21 July 2011
WO 2011087313 A2 21 July 2011
KR 20110084472 A 25 July 2011
KR 20110084468 A 25 July 2011
KR 20110084467 A 25 July 2011
KR 20110084466 A 25 July 2011
KR 20110090784 A 10 August 2011
KR 20110090783 A 10 August 2011
KR 20110090754 A 10 August 2011
WO 2011096722 A2 11 August 2011
WO 2011096720 A2 11 August 2011
WO 2011096718 A2 11 August 2011
WO 2011099700 A2 18 August 2011
AU 2011205888 Al 23 August 2012
CN 102714646 A 03 October 2012
CN 102742205 A 17 October 2012
EP 2512083 A2 17 October 2012
US 2012269138 Al 25 October 2012
EP 2525543 A2 21 November 2012
EP 2525542 A2 21 November 2012
US 2012300726 Al 29 November 2012
EP 2533451 A2 12 December 2012
US 2012320880 Al 20 December 2012
US 2012320813 Al 20 December 2012
US 2013022017 Al 24 January 2013
CN 102959917 A 06 March 2013
JP 2013517668 A 16 May 2013
JP 2013517667 A 16 May 2013
JP 2013517666 A 16 May 2013
JP 2013519289 A 23 May 2013
US 2013136071 Al 30 May 2013
US 2014119297 Al 01 May 2014
US 2014286259 Al 25 September 2014
US 2014301321 Al 09 October 2014
US 2015009971 Al 08 January 2015
US 2015023286 Al 22 January 2015
US 2015049718 Al 19 February 2015
US 2015071219 Al 12 March 2015
US 2015139154 Al 21 May 2015
US 2015173068 Al 18 June 2015
CN 105049156 A 11 November 2015
CN 105119689 A 02 December 2015
US 2012294272 Al 22 November 2012
CN 102170338 A 31 August 2011 JP 2014515238 A 26 June 2014
EP 2704345 Al 05 March 2014
WO 2012146107 Al 01 November 2012
KR 20140004242 A 10 January 2014

Form PCT/ISA/210 (patent family annex) (July 2009)

 INTERNATIONAL SEARCH REPORT International application No.
Information on patent family members
PCT/CN2015/076305

Patent document Publication date Publication date

Patent family member(s)
cited in search report (day/month/year) (day/month/year)

US 2014050176 Al 20 February 2014

CN 101489255 A 22 July 2009 None

Form PCT/ISA/210 (patent family annex) (July 2009)