Apple Inc. patent applications published on November 9th, 2023

Summary of the patent applications from Apple Inc. on November 9th, 2023

Apple Inc. has recently filed several patents related to various technologies in wireless communication. These patents aim to improve the efficiency, performance, and user experience of wireless devices.

Summary: - The patents cover technologies such as head-mounted devices that manage heat and reduce noise output, determining time-domain PRACH resources in wireless communication, determining channel occupancy rate in unlicensed spectrum, configuring a search space in network devices, uplink beam management and power control, supporting cross carrier scheduling in LTE and NR dynamic spectrum sharing, transmitting data and control information without using a physical uplink control channel, providing downlink control for multi-TRP transmission, triggering and using uplink gaps in cellular networks, and enhancing the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) and Cell Grouping Capability for NR-CA and NR-DC.

Notable Applications:

• Head-mounted device that manages heat and reduces noise output.
• Determining time-domain PRACH resources in wireless communication.
• Determining channel occupancy rate in unlicensed spectrum.
• Configuring a search space in network devices.
• Uplink beam management and power control in wireless communications systems.
• Supporting cross carrier scheduling in LTE and NR dynamic spectrum sharing.
• Transmitting data and control information without using a physical uplink control channel.
• Providing downlink control for multi-TRP transmission.
• Triggering and using uplink gaps in cellular networks.
• Enhancing the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) and Cell Grouping Capability for NR-CA and NR-DC.

Overall, these patents demonstrate Apple's commitment to innovation in wireless communication technologies, with a focus on improving heat management, noise reduction, resource allocation, beam management, power control, and overall network efficiency. These advancements have the potential to enhance the user experience and performance of Apple's wireless devices.

Patent applications for Apple Inc. on November 9th, 2023

AUTHORIZED REMOTE CONTROL (18349619)

Main Inventor

Bartholomeus C. Nabbe

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a vehicle navigation system that can be controlled remotely based on driving commands received from a remote control system.

- The remote control system allows a manual operator to interact with an interface to navigate the vehicle through an environment. - The system can engage remote driving control if it detects a health emergency of one or more occupants of the vehicle using vehicle sensor data. - When remote driving control is engaged, the remote control system generates commands to navigate the vehicle to a specific location without requiring the occupant with the health emergency to manually drive the vehicle. - The remote control system can monitor the occupant using communicated vehicle sensor data and control remote control devices in the vehicle to provide external indication that the vehicle is being navigated remotely.

Abstract

Some embodiments provide a vehicle navigation system which can navigate a vehicle through an environment based on driving commands received from a remote control system based on manual operator interaction with an interface of the remote control system. Remote driving control can be engaged based on determination, via processing vehicle sensor data, of a health emergency associated with one or more occupants of the vehicle, and the remote control system can generate remote driving commands which cause the vehicle to be navigated to a particular location without requiring the occupant associated with the health emergency to manually navigate the vehicle. The remote control system can monitor the occupant via communicated vehicle sensor data and can control remote control devices included in the vehicle to provide external indication that the vehicle is being navigated according to remote driving control.

Customizable Systems (18172175)

Main Inventor

Jie Gu

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a system that uses sensors to gather information on users.

- Users can have portable electronic devices like wristwatches, cell phones, and computers. - The sensors include facial recognition image sensors, fingerprint sensors, voice sensors, and other biometric sensors. - Pressure sensors can measure the weight of users to help identify them and determine their age. - The sensors are used to ascertain user identities and positions. - The system includes equipment like adjustable seats, climate control systems, media systems, etc. - These components can be customized based on the identities and positions of the users.

Abstract

A system may have sensors that gather information on users. The users may have portable electronic devices such as wristwatches, cellular telephones, and computers. The sensors may include facial recognition image sensors, fingerprint sensors, voice sensors configured to identify users by voice, and other biometric sensors. Pressure sensors may be used to measure the weight of users to help identify the users and/or to determine their age. Using the sensors, user identities and user positions may be ascertained. The system may have equipment such as adjustable seats, climate control systems, media systems, and other components that can be customized based on the identities and user positions.

Control Mode Selection And Transitions (18224846)

Main Inventor

Libo Cao Meyers

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a computer-implemented method for selecting and transitioning control modes for a device based on the likelihood of a control mode becoming unavailable. 

• The method involves choosing a control mode for a device.
• Transitions between control modes are determined based on the probability of the current control mode becoming unavailable.

Abstract

A computer-implemented method includes selection of a control mode for a device and transitions for a control mode for the device. Transitions between control modes may be based on a likelihood that a current control mode will become unavailable.

Capturing Location Data For Waypoint (18059325)

Main Inventor

Jared K. McGann

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a system and methods for providing location services on an electronic device. 

• The system receives a request to display waypoint user interface objects on the device's user interface.
• It sends a request to periodically gather information about these waypoints, such as their position or bearing.
• The frequency of these information requests is determined based on the device's motion classification.
• After a certain time period, the system decides whether to wake up the application processor or combine the information request with other processing tasks.
• The system then receives the requested waypoint information and displays it on the device's user interface.

Abstract

Embodiments described herein provide for a system, a non-transitory machine-readable medium, and methods to provide location services. In an embodiment, a method provides receiving a request to display at least one waypoint user interface object on an electronic device user interface, sending a request to duty cycle waypoint information requests for the at least one waypoint user interface object, wherein the duty cycle has a first time period based on a motion classification, and where a waypoint information request comprises at least one of a positioning request or a bearing request, upon expiration of the first time period, performing at least one of determining not to wake an application processor based on receipt of waypoint information from another application during the time period, or coalescing the waypoint information request with other process requests, and receiving the waypoint information and displaying the received waypoint information on the electronic device user interface.

Rhythmic Collection of Positioning Information (18304104)

Main Inventor

Christina Selle

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes methods, machine-readable mediums, and systems for providing location services.

- The method involves receiving intermittent position fixes for an electronic device's trajectory. - The position fixes are matched to points on a path indicated in map data. - A distance for the trajectory is computed using distance information from the map data. - The innovation aims to improve location services by accurately determining the distance traveled by an electronic device.

Abstract

Methods, non-transitory machine-readable mediums, and system to provide location services are described. In an embodiment, a method provides receiving at least two position fixes for a trajectory of an electronic device, where the at least two position fixes are obtained intermittently, matching the at least two position fixes to points on a path indicated in map data, and computing a distance for the trajectory using distance information using the map data.

Proactive Recording of Locations for Backtracking (18299011)

Main Inventor

Michael P. Dal Santo

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes methods, mediums, and systems for providing historical positioning information.

- The device is able to detect certain conditions in user contextual data that trigger the collection of a set of historical positions within a specific time frame called a lookback window. - The device then receives at least one historical position from the set of historical positions within the lookback window. - The received historical position is classified by the device based on one or more features to determine if it can be considered as a candidate location for a backtrack route. - Based on this classification, the device decides whether to provide the historical position as part of the lookback window. - The purpose of this innovation is to provide accurate historical positioning information to assist users in retracing their steps or navigating back to a specific location.

Abstract

Methods, non-transitory machine-readable mediums, and system to provide historical positioning information are described. In an embodiment, a device detects one or more conditions in user contextual data that trigger collection of a set of historical positions for a lookback window, the device receives at least one historical position from the set of historical positions for the lookback window, the device classifies the at least one historical position based on one or more features as a candidate location for a backtrack route, and the device determines to provide the at least one historical position as part of the lookback window based on the classification.

Electronic Devices with Lenses (18324078)

Main Inventor

Nikhil D. Kalyankar

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a head-mounted device with optical modules that display images to the user's left and right eyes.

- The optical modules have lens support structures that hold a display and a fixed lens. - Vision correction lenses can be attached to the fixed lenses to customize the device for individual users. - Users can view images on the displays through the removable and fixed lenses from eye boxes. - The optical modules also include infrared light sources and sensors for gaze tracking and authentication. - The lenses have coatings to enhance optical performance and structures on the edge surfaces to reduce stray light reflections. - The lenses are designed to allow both visible and infrared light to pass through.

Abstract

A head-mounted device may have optical modules that present images to a user's left and right eyes. Each optical module may have a lens support structure that supports a display and a fixed lens. Vision correction lenses may be removably coupled to the fixed lenses to help customize the head-mounted device to the vision of a particular user. A user may view images on the displays through the removable and fixed lenses from eye boxes. The optical modules may include infrared light sources that supply infrared light to the eye boxes and infrared light sensors such as infrared cameras for gaze tracking and authentication. The lenses may have optical surfaces covered with coating that enhance optical performance and may have edge surfaces that are provided with structures to help reduce stray light reflections. The lenses may be configured to pass visible and infrared light.

Compact Optical Splitter (18142729)

Main Inventor

Mohsen Kamandar Dezfouli

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a patent application for optical splitters and systems that use them.

• The optical splitter consists of an input waveguide, a free propagation region, and multiple output waveguides.
• The output waveguides are connected to the free propagation region at different output ports.
• The output ports are positioned along a non-circular path.
• The output waveguides have the same width.
• The patent application provides a new design for optical splitters that can efficiently split optical signals.

Abstract

Optical splitters and system and methods utilizing optical splitters are disclosed. The optical splitter may include an input waveguide, a free propagation region, and a plurality output waveguides. The output waveguides are connected to the free propagation region at a corresponding plurality of output ports that are positioned along a non-circular path. The output ports may be positioned such that the output waveguides have the same width.

Head-Mounted Display With Low Light Operation (18218787)

Main Inventor

Killian J. Poore

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a display system that includes a head-mounted display and a controller.

• The head-mounted display is designed to be worn on a user's head and includes a display and sensors.
• The sensors are used to sense the environment around the user, particularly in low light conditions.
• The sensors can include an infrared sensor, a depth sensor, and an ultrasonic sensor.
• The controller uses the data from these sensors to determine graphical content that is displayed on the head-mounted display.
• The graphical content is provided to the user in real-time, concurrent with the sensing of the environment.
• This technology allows for an immersive and interactive experience for the user, even in low light conditions.

Abstract

A display system includes a controller and a head-mounted display. The head-mounted display includes a display, a head support coupled to the display for supporting the display on a head of a user to be viewed by the user, and sensors coupled to the head support for sensing an environment from the head-mounted display unit in low light. The sensors include one or more of an infrared sensor for sensing the environment with infrared electromagnetic radiation, or a depth sensor for sensing distances to objects of the environment, and also include an ultrasonic sensor for sensing the environment with ultrasonic sound waves. The controller determines graphical content according to the sensing of the environment with the one or more of the infrared sensor or the depth sensor and with the ultrasonic sensor, and operates the display to provide the graphical content concurrent with the sensing of the environment.

Electronic Devices With Optical Component Protection (18351187)

Main Inventor

Ritu Shah

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a head-mounted device with rear-facing displays that show images to the user.

- The device also has a front-facing display that can be seen by others. - A display cover layer is placed over the front-facing display, with an inactive border area overlapping optical components. - Shutter systems are used to selectively block light between the display cover layer and the optical components. - Actuators are used to move the shutter members or other movable members to cover or uncover the optical components. - A removable cover is included to protect the display cover layer, with different areas of the cover having different optical properties.

Abstract

A head-mounted device may have a head-mounted housing. The head-mounted housing may have rear-facing displays that display images for a user. The images are viewable from eye boxes while the head-mounted device is being worn by the user. A publicly viewable front-facing display may be mounted on a front face of the head-mounted housing. A display cover layer may overlap a pixel array associated with the front-facing display. An inactive border area of the display cover layer may overlap optical components. Shutter systems may be provided between the display cover layer and the optical components to selectively block light. Actuators may move shutter members or other movable members to cover and uncover the optical components. A removable cover may be used to protect the display cover layer and may have portions in different areas that have different optical properties.

Dynamic Voltage Margin Recovery (18351248)

Main Inventor

John H. Mylius

Brief explanation

The patent application describes an integrated circuit that includes multiple instances of a component (such as a processor) and a control circuit.

• The integrated circuit can operate in different modes, some of which do not put a heavy load on the power supply.
• The control circuit monitors the instances and detects the modes in which they are operating.
• Based on this monitoring, the control circuit can request to recover a portion of the voltage margin that is typically reserved for worst-case conditions in the instances.
• This innovation allows for more efficient use of power supply resources in the integrated circuit.

Abstract

An integrated circuit may include multiple instances of a component (e.g. a processor) and a control circuit. The instances may be configured to operate in various modes. Some of the modes are incapable of presenting a worst-case load on the power supply. The control circuit may be configured to monitor the instances and detect the modes in which the instances are operating. Based on the monitoring, the control circuit may request to recover a portion of the voltage margin established for worst-case conditions in the instances.

RETINAL REFLECTION TRACKING FOR GAZE ALIGNMENT (18138233)

Main Inventor

Arthur Y. Zhang

Brief explanation

The patent application describes devices, systems, and methods that can detect the direction of a person's gaze towards a specific area and initiate an action based on that.

• The system uses an illuminator to direct light towards the person's eye, creating a reflection.
• A sensor receives data from the reflection and determines its reflective properties, such as its spectral properties.
• By analyzing the reflective properties, the system can detect if the person's gaze is directed towards a specific target area, like a hot corner or zone.
• Once the system detects the gaze direction towards the target area, it can initiate an action based on this information.

Abstract

Various implementations disclosed herein include devices, systems, and methods that initiate an action based on a detected gaze direction oriented towards a target area (e.g., a hot corner/zone). For example, an example process may include producing a reflection by directing light towards an eye using an illuminator, receiving sensor data from a sensor, wherein a direction of sensing by the sensor (e.g., the optical axis of the camera) and a direction from the eye to a target area are approximately aligned, determining a reflective property (e.g., a spectral property) of the reflection based on the sensor data, detecting that a gaze direction of the eye is approximately oriented towards the target area (e.g., a hot zone/spot) based on the reflective property, and initiating an action based on detecting that the gaze direction is approximately oriented towards the target area.

RING INPUT DEVICE WITH VARIABLE ROTATIONAL RESISTANCE (18353044)

Main Inventor

Michael BEYHS

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a ring input device with variable rotational resistance mechanisms to improve the user experience.

• The ring input device is designed to be small and worn on the finger, making it a discreet communication device.
• The device can wirelessly communicate with other devices.
• The rotating outer band of the ring input device can be manipulated to control user interfaces or parameters.
• The rotational friction of the outer band can be adjusted to provide a better user experience.
• The innovation allows for more precise control and customization of the ring input device.

Abstract

A ring input device, and more particularly to variable rotational resistance mechanisms within the ring input device that modulate the rotational friction of a rotating outer band to improve the user experience, is disclosed. Because finger rings are often small and routinely worn, electronic finger rings can be employed as unobtrusive communication devices that are readily available to communicate wirelessly with other devices capable of receiving those communications. Ring input devices according to examples of the disclosure can modulate the rotational friction of its rotating outer band in accordance with an item (e.g., user interface or parameter) being manipulated by the band.

TOUCH SCREEN SHIELD LAYER WITH RING AND TAPPING POINTS (18312889)

Main Inventor

Sagar R. VAZE

Brief explanation

- The patent application discusses techniques to reduce noise in touch screens.

- Differential driving and sensing methods are proposed to minimize noise. - Metal mesh can be used for touch electrodes and routing traces. - A display-noise shield or sensor can be placed between the display and touch screen to mitigate electrical interference. - The shield can minimize noise from the display to touch screen signals. - The sensor enables differential readout of touch screen signals, subtracting the measured noise component. - The touch screen and shield/sensor can be formed using an on-cell process for improved performance and yield. - The shield can be connected to a conductive ring and flex circuit via tapping points in a separate stackup from the display.

Abstract

Differential driving and/or sensing can reduce noise in a touch screen. In some examples, the touch electrodes and/or routing traces can be implemented using metal mesh in first and second metal layers. To mitigate electrical interference at the touch screen from a display, a display-noise shield or sensor can be provided between the display and the touch screen. In some examples, a shield can minimize a noise contribution from the display to signals generated at the touch screen. In other examples, a sensor can enable a differential read out of signals at the touch screen that subtracts a noise component measured by the sensor. Forming the shield or sensor, and the touch screen over the display using an on-cell process can improve touch screen performance and yield. The shield can be connected to a conductive ring and flex circuit via tapping points in a stackup separate from a display stackup.

Devices, Methods, and Graphical User Interfaces for Updating a Session Region (17950680)

Main Inventor

Chanaka G. Karunamuni

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a computer system with a display area that includes a status region. 

• The computer system can detect user input in the status region.
• If the status region is associated with an active session of an application, the computer system performs an operation related to that application.
• If the status region is not associated with an active session, the computer system provides feedback on the user input without displaying information about any application or performing any application-related operation.

Abstract

A computer system has a display area, wherein the display area at least partially encompasses a status region. The computer system detects a user input corresponding to the status region. In response to detecting the user input corresponding to the status region, the computer system, in accordance with a determination that the status region is associated with an active session of a respective application, performs an operation associated with the respective application and in accordance with a determination that the status region is not associated with an active session of a respective application, provides feedback associated with the user input without displaying information about a respective application in the status region and without performing an operation associated with a respective application.

Devices, Methods, and Graphical User Interfaces for Updating a Session Region (17950694)

Main Inventor

Chanaka G. Karunamuni

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a computer system that displays different user interfaces based on user input and application states.

• The computer system initially displays the first user interface of an application.
• If the user requests to dismiss the first user interface, it is no longer displayed.
• The computer system then displays an indication of the current state of the application in the status region.
• It also displays a second user interface associated with respective software.
• If the user wants to navigate to a third user interface, it is displayed outside of the status region.
• The indication of the current state of the application continues to be displayed in the status region.

Abstract

A computer system displays, in display area outside of a status region, a first user interface of a respective application executing on the computer system. The computer system detects a user input corresponding to a request to dismiss the first user interface and ceases to display, in the display area, the first user interface. The computer system displays in the status region an indication of a current state of the respective application and displays a second user interface that is associated with respective software. The computer system detects a user input to navigate from the second user interface that is associated with respective software that is different from the respective application to a third user interface and displays the third user interface in the display area outside of the status region while continuing to display, in the status region, the indication of a current state of the respective application.

Devices, Methods, and Graphical User Interfaces for Updating a Session Region (17950718)

Main Inventor

Chanaka G. Karunamuni

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a computer system that has two display regions: a first region showing status information about the computer system, and a second region showing a different application.

• The first display region includes one or more sensor regions.
• The second display region surrounds the first display region.
• The computer system updates the status information in the first display region as the state of the computer system changes.
• The updated status information is designed to avoid overlapping with the sensor regions.
• The purpose of this innovation is to provide a clear and organized display of status information and application interface on a computer system.

Abstract

A computer system displays, in a first display region, a first user interface object that includes status information provided by respective software about a state of the computer system, wherein the first display region encompasses one or more sensor regions. The computer system displays, in a second display region that is different from the first display region, a user interface of an application that is different from the respective software, wherein the second display region at least partially surrounds the first display region. As the state of the computer system changes, the computer system displays in the first user interface object updated status information provided by the respective software about the changed state of the computer system, wherein the updated status information includes visual elements that are selected so as to avoid overlapping locations of the one or more sensors in the first display region.

DISCOVERING DIGITAL ASSISTANT TASKS (17961223)

Main Inventor

Elizabeth M. CHAPMAN

Brief explanation

The patent application describes systems and processes for operating an intelligent automated assistant. 

• The systems and processes are designed to receive user inputs requesting potential tasks that can be performed by a digital assistant on an electronic device.
• The electronic device has processors and memory to process and store the user inputs.
• Based on the context provided in the user input, the systems and processes determine a textual representation of an utterance that can be used to perform the requested task.
• This textual representation is then displayed as an affordance, or a visual cue, on the user interface of the electronic device's screen.
• The affordance helps the user understand and interact with the digital assistant to perform the desired task.

Abstract

Systems and processes for operating an intelligent automated assistant are provided. An example process includes, at an electronic device having one or more processors and memory, receiving a user input including a request for potential tasks executable by a digital assistant and a content of the electronic device; and in response to receiving the request: determining, based on the context included in the request, a textual representation of an utterance for performing a task; and providing the textual representation of the utterance for performing the task in an affordance displayed over a user interface on the screen of the electronic device.

OMNIDIRECTIONAL GESTURE DETECTION (18222394)

Main Inventor

Ben ROTTLER

Brief explanation

The patent application describes an omnidirectional electronic device that can recognize and perform operations based on various inputs, regardless of their position or orientation.

• The device can recognize inputs such as single or multi-touch gestures, presses, swipes, rotations, characters, and symbols.
• It can be applied to an omnidirectional media player, allowing for media operations to be performed based on the recognized inputs.
• The device's ability to recognize inputs irrespective of their position or orientation enhances user experience and convenience.
• The technology can be applied to various electronic devices, expanding its potential applications beyond media players.

Abstract

An omnidirectional electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device can perform operations associated with a combination of inputs that can, in some cases, be recognized irrespective of the position or orientation in which they are made. The inputs can include, for example, single or multi-touch gestures, presses, swipes, rotations, characters and symbols. In one embodiment, an omnidirectional media player can perform media operations associated with a combination of inputs that can be recognized irrespective of the position or orientation in which they are applied relative to an input area of the media player.

Devices, Methods, and Graphical User Interfaces for Touch Input Processing (18221354)

Main Inventor

Bruce D. Nilo

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system in an electronic device that detects user input on a user interface element. The input is processed using a standard gesture recognizer and a supplemental gesture recognizer. 

• The system determines if the content associated with the user interface element can be added to a drag operation.
• If the content cannot be added, the system ignores the user input from the supplemental gesture recognizer and only uses the standard gesture recognizer.
• If the content can be added, the system recognizes a gesture using both the standard and supplemental gesture recognizers and adds the content to the drag operation.

Abstract

At an electronic device, a user input is detected that corresponds to a respective user interface element in a portion of a user interface that is associated with a first standard gesture recognizer and a first supplemental gesture recognizer. The user input is processed in accordance with the first standard gesture recognizer and the first supplemental gesture recognizer. In accordance with a determination that content associated with the respective user interface element cannot be added to a drag operation, the device fails to recognize the user input using the first supplemental gesture recognizer, and processes the user input using the first standard gesture recognizer. On the other hand, in accordance with a determination that the content associated with the respective user interface element can be added to the drag operation, a gesture is recognized using the first supplemental gesture recognizer and the content is added to the drag operation.

PORTABLE MULTIFUNCTION DEVICE WITH INTERFACE RECONFIGURATION MODE (18222317)

Main Inventor

Scott M. HERZ

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a computer-implemented method for reconfiguring icons on a touch screen display.

• The method involves displaying a first set of icons in one area of the touch screen display and a second set of icons in a different area.
• When a finger gesture is detected on the touch screen display, a user interface reconfiguration process is initiated.
• The positions of one or more icons in the first set are varied around their average positions.
• This allows for a dynamic and customizable arrangement of icons on the touch screen display.

Abstract

In one aspect of the invention, a computer-implemented method at a computing device with a touch screen display includes: displaying a first set of a first plurality of icons in a first area of the touch screen display, wherein the first plurality of icons includes a plurality of sets of icons that are separately displayed in the first area of the touch screen display; displaying a second plurality of icons in a second area on the touch screen display, wherein the second area is different from the first area; detecting a first finger gesture on the touch screen display; in response to detecting the first finger gesture, initiating a user interface reconfiguration process, and varying positions of one or more icons in the first set of the first plurality of icons about respective average positions.

PHYSICAL COMPANION DEVICES FOR USE WITH EXTENDED REALITY SYSTEMS (18222967)

Main Inventor

Samuel L. IGLESIAS

Brief explanation

- The subject technology is about a small, portable physical object used in an extended reality system.

- The system allows users to interact with virtual representations of content overlaid on their physical environment. - The object has a unique identifier that can be obtained by the system or another device. - The object can be inactive, passive, or active depending on its internal circuitry and functionality. - An active object may have its own processing circuitry and/or a display. - The object can be associated with content displayed by the system. - It provides users with a physical object that can be moved or manipulated to interact with the virtual content. - The object can be used to move, modify, transport, or store the content in the extended reality environment.

Abstract

Implementations of the subject technology provide a small, portable physical object for use in an extended reality system. The system may include a device that allows a user/wearer to interact with virtual representations of content such as stored data and/or applications overlaid on the user’s physical environment. The object has a unique identifier that is obtainable by the device or another device. The object may be an inactive device without any internal circuitry, a passive device with circuitry that is activated by another device, or an active device having its own processing circuitry and/or a display housed in the body of the object. The object can be associated with content displayed by the device to provide a user with a physical object that can be moved or manipulated to move, modify, transport, or store the content generated, stored, and/or displayed in an extended reality environment.

INTELLIGENT AUTOMATED ASSISTANT IN A MESSAGING ENVIRONMENT (18224509)

Main Inventor

Petr KARASHCHUK

Brief explanation

This patent application describes systems and processes for operating an intelligent automated assistant in a messaging environment. The goal is to provide a more conversational and user-friendly experience for users interacting with the assistant.

• The patent application describes a graphical user interface (GUI) that displays previous messages between the user and the assistant in a conversational view.
• When the user inputs a message, it is displayed as the first message in the GUI, and the contextual state of the device at that moment is stored.
• The system then performs an action based on the user's intent, derived from their input.
• The response to the action is displayed as a second message in the GUI, continuing the conversation with the user.

Overall, this patent application aims to improve the user experience of interacting with an intelligent automated assistant in a messaging environment by providing a more conversational and intuitive interface.

Abstract

Systems and processes for operating an intelligent automated assistant in a messaging environment are provided. In one example process, a graphical user interface (GUI) having a plurality of previous messages between a user of the electronic device and the digital assistant can be displayed on a display. The plurality of previous messages can be presented in a conversational view. User input can be received and in response to receiving the user input, the user input can be displayed as a first message in the GUI. A contextual state of the electronic device corresponding to the displayed user input can be stored. The process can cause an action to be performed in accordance with a user intent derived from the user input. A response based on the action can be displayed as a second message in the GUI.

Request Ordering in a Cache (18353830)

Main Inventor

Sandeep Gupta

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a cache system that includes multiple request handling pipes and request buffers for storing device requests from processors to devices.

- The cache system is designed to handle device requests that need to be sent to devices in a specific order. - When a device request is received, the cache system selects a request handling pipe based on the address indicated by the device request. - The cache system then selects a request buffer within the selected request handling pipe based on the available entries in the request buffers. - To ensure the device requests are transmitted to the devices in order, the cache system uses first-level and second-level token stores to track and maintain the device requests. - The first-level and second-level token stores help in organizing and prioritizing the device requests for efficient transmission to the devices.

Abstract

A cache may include multiple request handling pipes, each of which may further include multiple request buffers, for storing device requests from one or more processors to one or more devices. Some of the device requests may require to be sent to the devices according to an order. For a given one of such device requests, the cache may select a request handling pipe, based on an address indicated by the device request, and select a request buffer, based on the available entries of the request buffers of the selected request handling pipe, to store the device request. The cache may further use a first-level and a second-level token stores to track and maintain the device requests in order when transmitting the device requests to the devices.

MULTI-DEVICE CONTEXT STORE (18356081)

Main Inventor

Kartik Venkatraman

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a system where a user device can store and manage context information from multiple devices.

• User device receives and stores context information from multiple devices.
• User device also collects and stores local device and user context information.
• User device can respond to user/device context queries by providing context information from multiple devices.

Abstract

In some implementations, a user device can maintain a multi-device context store. For example, the user device can receive device and/or user context information from multiple devices and store the context information in a local data store. The user device can collect local device and/or user context information and store the context information in the local context store. The user device can receive user/device context queries from client processes and send the client processes user/device context information from multiple devices in response to the queries.

Localization of Objects (18223454)

Main Inventor

Scott Rick Jones

Brief explanation

The patent application describes devices, systems, and methods for modifying the visual appearance of an object based on the geographic location of a device.

• The technology allows for changing the visual properties of an object depending on the theme associated with it.
• Physical elements corresponding to the object are identified based on the theme.
• Each physical element has a value associated with a visual property.
• The value for the visual property of the object is determined based on the values of the physical elements.
• The object is then displayed with the modified visual property according to the determined value.

Abstract

Various implementations disclosed herein include devices, systems, and methods for modifying a visual property of an object based on a geographic location associated with a device. In some implementations, a method includes obtaining a request to display an object that is associated with a set of one or more visual properties including a visual property that is dependent on a theme. Based on a particular theme, a set of one or more physical elements is identified that corresponds to the object. The one or more physical elements are associated with respective values for the visual property. A value for the visual property associated with the object is determined based on the respective values associated with the set of one or more physical elements. The object is displayed in accordance with the value for the visual property.

IN-HOME EVENT INTERCOM AND NOTIFICATIONS (18142451)

Main Inventor

Kshitij S. Deshpande

Brief explanation

The patent application describes techniques for an in-home health intercom and notification system.

• The system involves multiple devices, including a first device and a second device, that are connected through a local area network.
• The first device receives a message from a user device, describing an event involving a person in the environment.
• The first device identifies the message as an event message.
• The first device then transmits the event message to the second device using a different transmission protocol.
• The second device receives the event message and transmits it to another user device.
• The second device sends a response back to the first device, confirming that the event message has been successfully transmitted to the second user device.

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed for in-home health intercom and notification. In one example, a first device receives a message comprising a description of an event of a first person in an environment from a first user device using a first transmission protocol. The first device detects that the message is an event message. The first device transmits the event message to the second computing device in the environment using a second transmission protocol, where the first device and the second device are in operable communication using a local area network. The first device receives, using the second transmission protocol, a response from the second device that the second computing device has transmitted the event message to a second user device.

Local Active Matrix Architecture (18350366)

Main Inventor

Hjalmar Edzer Ayco Huitema

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a local active matrix display panel, circuits, and methods of operation.

• The display panel includes an array of pixel driver chips.
• The pixel driver chips are in electrical contact with a thin film transistor layer.
• The thin film transistor layer is connected to an array of light emitting diodes.
• The purpose of the invention is to provide an improved display panel with enhanced functionality and performance.
• The pixel driver chips and thin film transistor layer allow for precise control of each individual pixel.
• The connection between the thin film transistor layer and the light emitting diodes ensures efficient and accurate illumination of the display.
• The invention can be used in various applications such as televisions, computer monitors, and mobile devices.

Abstract

A local active matrix display panel, circuits and methods of operation are described. In an embodiment, a local active matrix display panel includes an array of pixel driver chip, a thin film transistor layer in electrical contact with the array of pixel driver chips, and an array of light emitting diodes electrically connected with the thin film transistor layer.

EFFICIENT EMBEDDING FOR ACOUSTIC MODELS (17736959)

Main Inventor

Daniel C. KLINGLER

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a system and method for generating and storing learned embeddings of audio inputs on an electronic device.

• The electronic device can encode and store audio inputs as well as the learned embeddings of these inputs.
• When a new audio input is received, the device can compare its encoded version to the stored encoded versions of prior inputs.
• If a match is found, the device can provide the corresponding learned embedding to a detection model on the device.
• The stored embeddings can be used by locally trained models to detect individual sounds using electronic devices.

Abstract

The subject disclosure provides systems and methods for generating and storing learned embeddings of audio inputs to an electronic device. The electronic device may generate and store encoded versions of audio inputs and learned embeddings of the audio inputs. When a new audio input is obtained, the electronic device can generate an encoded version of the new audio input, compare the encoded version of the new audio input to the stored encoded versions of prior audio inputs, and if the encoded version of the new audio input matches one of the stored encoded versions of the prior audio inputs, the electronic device can provide a stored learned embedding that corresponds to the one of the stored encoded versions of the prior audio inputs to a detection model at the electronic device. The cached embeddings can be provided to locally trained models for detecting individual sounds using electronic devices.

HIGHER ORDER AMBISONICS ENCODING AND DECODING (18246030)

Main Inventor

Moo Young KIM

Brief explanation

The patent application is about encoding and decoding higher order ambisonics (HOA) data to reduce bitrate. It involves using principal components analysis to generate spatial descriptors and employing different techniques to quantize these descriptors.

• The patent application focuses on encoding and decoding higher order ambisonics (HOA) data.
• The purpose of this technology is to reduce the bitrate required for transmitting HOA data.
• Principal components analysis is used to create spatial descriptors, which capture the spatial characteristics of the audio.
• These spatial descriptors are then quantized using various techniques.
• The innovation lies in the combination of principal components analysis and spatial descriptor quantization to achieve bitrate reduction for HOA data.

Abstract

Encoding and decoding of higher order ambisonics, HOA, data for purposes of bitrate reduction. One aspect uses principal components analysis to produce spatial descriptors. Other aspects include various spatial descriptor quantization techniques.

SEAMLESS SCALABLE DECODING OF CHANNELS, OBJECTS, AND HOA AUDIO CONTENT (18246024)

Main Inventor

Moo Young KIM

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes methods and systems for decoding immersive audio content that is encoded with different numbers of scene elements for channels, audio objects, higher-order ambisonics (HOA), and other sound field representations.

- The decoded audio is then rendered to the speaker configuration of a playback device. - When the bit streams representing audio scenes have different mixtures of channels, objects, and/or HOA in consecutive frames, a fade-in of the new frame and fade-out of the old frame can be performed. - Crossfading between consecutive frames can occur in the speaker layout after rendering, in the spatially decoded content type before rendering, or between the transport channels as the output of the baseline decoder but before spatial decoding and rendering. - Crossfading can be achieved using an immediate fade-in and fade-out frame (IFFF) for the transition frame or by using an overlap-add synthesis technique such as time-domain aliasing cancellation (TDAC) of MDCT.

Abstract

Disclosed are methods and systems for decoding immersive audio content encoded by an adaptive number of scene elements for channels, audio objects, higher-order ambisonics (HOA), and/or other sound field representations. The decoded audio is rendered to the speaker configuration of a playback device. For bit streams that represent audio scenes with a different mixture of channels, objects, and/or HOA in consecutive frames, fade-in of the new frame and fade-out of the old frame may be performed. Crossfading between consecutive frames happen in the speaker layout after rendering, in the spatially decoded content type before rendering, or between the transport channels as the output of the baseline decoder but before spatial decoding and rendering. Crossfading may use an immediate fade-in and fade-out frame (IFFF) for the transition frame or may use an overlap-add synthesis technique such as time-domain aliasing cancellation (TDAC) of MDCT.

HIERARCHICAL SPATIAL RESOLUTION CODEC (18246029)

Main Inventor

Dipanjan SEN

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a hierarchical spatial resolution codec for adaptive adjustment of immersive audio content representations based on changes in target bandwidth.

- The codec can represent audio content using different types such as channels/objects and higher-order ambisonics (HOA). - Adaptive spatial coding techniques are used to support the target bitrate of a transmission channel or user. - Adaptive channel/object spatial encoding techniques are employed to generate an adaptive number of channels/objects based on priority. - Adaptive HOA spatial encoding or HOA compression techniques are used to generate an adaptive order of the HOA. - The adaptation is determined by the target bitrate associated with desired quality and an analysis of channel, object, and HOA priorities. - High priority channels/objects are encoded into a high-quality bit-stream, while low priority channels/objects may be converted and encoded as HOA.

Abstract

Disclosed is a hierarchical spatial resolution codec that adaptively adjusts the representations of immersive audio content as the target bandwidth for delivering the audio content changes. The audio content may be represented by an adaptive number of content types such as channels/objects, higher-order ambisonics (HOA), and encoded by adaptive spatial coding techniques to support the target bitrate of a transmission channel or user. Adaptive spatial coding techniques may include adaptive channel/object spatial encoding techniques to generate an adaptive number of channels/objects, and adaptive HOA spatial encoding or HOA compression techniques to generate an adaptive order of the HOA. The adaptation may be a function of the target bitrate that is associated with a desired quality, and an analysis that determines the priority of the channels, objects, and HOA. High priority channels/objects may be encoded into a high quality bit-stream while low priority channels/objects may be converted and encoded as HOA.

DISPLAY MODULE AND SYSTEM APPLICATIONS (18315727)

Main Inventor

Andreas Bibl

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a display module and system applications that utilize this display module.

• The display module consists of a display substrate with a front surface, back surface, and a display area on the front surface.
• The display substrate has interconnects that extend from the front surface to the back surface.
• The display area contains an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are connected to the interconnects.
• One or more driver circuits are located on the back surface of the display substrate.
• The system applications of this display module include wearable, rollable, and foldable displays.

Abstract

A display module and system applications including a display module are described. The display module may include a display substrate including a front surface, a back surface, and a display area on the front surface. A plurality of interconnects extend through the display substrate from the front surface to the back surface. An array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are in the display area and electrically connected with the plurality of interconnects, and one or more driver circuits are on the back surface of the display substrate. Exemplary system applications include wearable, rollable, and foldable displays.

Display Systems with Light-Emitting Diodes (18180758)

Main Inventor

Ziruo Hong

Brief explanation

The patent application describes an electronic device with one or more displays that use an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce images for the user. The LEDs in the array have a common cathode, which is made of a reflective material and can be arranged in a grid or around the periphery of the array.

• The electronic device has one or more displays that use an array of LEDs.
• The LEDs in the array have a common cathode.
• The common cathode is made of a reflective material.
• The common cathode can be arranged in a grid or around the periphery of the array.
• The array can include LEDs of different colors in a head-to-tail arrangement, connected in series, or sharing a common cathode.
• The array can include vertically stacked LEDs of three different colors.

Abstract

An electronic device may have one or more displays that produce images for a user. The display may include an array of light-emitting diodes. Each light-emitting diode in the array of light-emitting diodes may include a plurality of vias. The vias may be arranged in an array of rows and columns. The light-emitting diodes in the array may share a common cathode. The common cathode may include a conductive layer formed from a reflective material. The conductive layer may be formed in a grid that defines a plurality of openings for the light-emitting diodes or may be formed around the periphery of the array. The array may include light-emitting diodes of two different colors in a head-to-tail arrangement, connected in series, or that share a common cathode. The array may include light-emitting diodes of three different colors that are vertically stacked.

Display Systems with Light-Emitting Diodes (18180763)

Main Inventor

Ziruo Hong

Brief explanation

The patent application describes an electronic device with one or more displays that use an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce images for the user. 

• The LEDs in the array have a common cathode, which is a conductive layer made of a reflective material.
• The cathode can be formed in a grid pattern with openings for the LEDs or around the edges of the array.
• The array can include LEDs of different colors arranged in a head-to-tail configuration, connected in series, or sharing a common cathode.
• The array can also have vertically stacked LEDs of three different colors.

Abstract

An electronic device may have one or more displays that produce images for a user. The display may include an array of light-emitting diodes. Each light-emitting diode in the array of light-emitting diodes may include a plurality of vias. The vias may be arranged in an array of rows and columns. The light-emitting diodes in the array may share a common cathode. The common cathode may include a conductive layer formed from a reflective material. The conductive layer may be formed in a grid that defines a plurality of openings for the light-emitting diodes or may be formed around the periphery of the array. The array may include light-emitting diodes of two different colors in a head-to-tail arrangement, connected in series, or that share a common cathode. The array may include light-emitting diodes of three different colors that are vertically stacked.

COATINGS FOR CATHODE ACTIVE MATERIALS (18348766)

Main Inventor

Huiming Wu

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a cathode active material used in lithium-ion batteries.

• The material consists of cathode active compound particles coated with a specific type of oxide.
• The coating is made of a lithium-ion conducting oxide that contains lanthanum and titanium.
• The purpose of the coating is to enhance the performance and stability of the cathode active material.
• This innovation aims to improve the efficiency and lifespan of lithium-ion batteries.

Abstract

A cathode active material includes a plurality of cathode active compound particles and a coating disposed over each of the cathode active compound particles. The coating includes a lithium (Li)-ion conducting oxide containing lanthanum (La) and titanium (Ti).

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GROUND FENCING (17738787)

Main Inventor

Xiaofang Mu

Brief explanation

- The patent application discusses techniques to reduce signal interference between wired signals and wireless signals in an electronic device.

- The electronic device includes an interposer with an inner fence and an outer fence that have offset gaps to prevent noise leakage from the wired signals. - The offset gaps prevent the formation of a pathway created by overlapping tabs, which would allow noise to leak from the wired signals. - In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a ground fencing of ground vias to prevent noise leakage from harmonics associated with signal vias. - The spacing between the ground vias is determined based on the frequencies of the signals that the ground vias are intended to block.

Abstract

Techniques to reduce signal interference between wired signals communicated within an electronic device and wireless signals transmitted to or received from antennas of the electronic device are disclosed. The electronic device includes an interposer with an inner fence and an outer fence having offset gaps to prevent a pathway otherwise formed by overlapping tabs, where the pathway allows noise leakage from the wired signals. In some embodiments, the electronic device (e.g., in a main logic board package) includes a ground fencing of ground vias to prevent the noise leakage from harmonics associated with signal vias communicating the wired signals. The spacing between the ground vias is based on frequencies of signals that the ground vias are intended to block.

ENHANCED COMMUNICATIONS FOR WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER (18355139)

Main Inventor

Sriram Narayanan

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a wireless power transmitter that can receive and analyze a characterizing signal from a wireless power receiver to determine the characteristics of the communication channel between them. 

• The wireless power transmitter can receive a characterizing signal from the wireless power receiver.
• It can compute at least two parameters of a model that describes the communication channel based on the received signal.
• These parameters can include the time constant and damping value of the channel.
• The transmitter can then calculate equalizing filter taps based on these parameters.
• The computed equalizing filter can be applied to subsequent signals received by the transmitter to improve the quality of the communication.
• The transmitter can request the receiver to transmit a characterizing signal, and the receiver responds by sending the signal.

Abstract

A wireless power transmitter can receive the results of a characterizing signal transmitted by the wireless power receiver, compute at least two parameters of a model characterizing an in-band communications channel based on the received results of the characterizing signal transmitted by the wireless power receiver, compute a plurality of equalizing filter taps from the at least two parameters, and apply the computed equalizing filter to subsequent signals received by the wireless power transmitter via the in-band communications channel. A first parameter can correspond to a time constant of the channel, and a second parameter can correspond to a damping value of the communications channel. The wireless power transmitter can transmit to a wireless power receiver a request to transmit a characterizing signal through the in-band communication channel, wherein the characterizing signal transmitted by the wireless power receiver is sent in response to the transmitted request.

MAGNETIC ALIGNMENT STRUCTURES WITH VARIABLE FIELD STRENGTH (18214399)

Main Inventor

Karl Ruben F. Larsson

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a magnetic alignment system that consists of two components: a primary annular magnetic alignment component and a secondary annular magnetic alignment component.

• The primary alignment component has an inner annular region with a specific magnetic orientation, an outer annular region with an opposite magnetic orientation, and a non-magnetized central annular region between them.
• The secondary alignment component has a magnetic orientation with a radial component.
• The system may also include a rotational magnetic alignment component and/or an NFC coil and circuitry.

Abstract

A magnetic alignment system can include a primary annular magnetic alignment component and a secondary annular magnetic alignment component. The primary alignment component can include an inner annular region having a first magnetic orientation, an outer annular region having a second magnetic orientation opposite to the first magnetic orientation, and a non-magnetized central annular region disposed between the primary inner annular region and the primary outer annular region. The secondary alignment component can have a magnetic orientation with a radial component. Additional features, such as a rotational magnetic alignment component and/or an NFC coil and circuitry can be included.

TECHNIQUES FOR CONTROLLING SPECIFIC ABSORPTION RATE OF RADIO ENERGY TRANSMISSION (18315275)

Main Inventor

Oren Kaidar

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about techniques for controlling Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of radio energy transmission.

- It describes a radio device and a method for controlling radio energy transmission of multiple radio entities to comply with a predefined SAR requirement. - The radio device includes multiple radio entities that transmit radio energy and a controller that controls their transmission to meet the SAR requirement. - The controller enables at least two radio entities to operate concurrently based on a shared SAR transmission power restriction. - The shared restriction allows the concurrent transmission at a predefined duty cycle, such as 100%, without violating the SAR requirement. - The patent also covers a method for dynamically managing a SAR budget across multiple radio entities.

Abstract

The disclosure relates to techniques for controlling Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of radio energy transmission. In particular, the disclosure relates to a radio device and a method for controlling radio energy transmission of a plurality of radio entities to comply with a predefined SAR requirement. Such a radio device includes: a plurality of radio entities configured to transmit radio energy; and a controller configured to control the radio energy transmission of the plurality of radio entities to comply with a predefined Specific Absorption Rate, SAR, requirement, wherein the controller is configured to enable at least two radio entities of the plurality of radio entities operating concurrently based on a shared SAR transmission power restriction which allows the at least two radio entities transmitting concurrently at a predefined duty cycle, in particular at 100% duty cycle, without violating the SAR requirement. The disclosure further relates to a method for dynamic management of a SAR budget across multiple radio entities.

Methods and Apparatus for Device Type and Channel State Information Feedback over Initial Access Message in Wireless Communication (17441623)

Main Inventor

Hong He

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about wireless devices, circuits, and methods for triggering earlier Channel State Information (CSI) feedback.

- The wireless device sends a signal to a wireless station indicating that it needs earlier CSI feedback, possibly because it has a reduced capability to receive messages. - In response to the signal, the wireless station sends a modified message to the wireless device, which triggers the earlier CSI feedback. - The wireless device then sends the earlier CSI feedback to the wireless station using a message related to a RACH procedure. - The connection between the wireless device and the wireless station is completed based on the transmitted CSI feedback, after a repeated number of initial access messages from the wireless station.

Abstract

Aspects herein relate to wireless devices, circuits, and methods for triggering earlier Channel State Information (CSI) feedback, comprising: transmitting, by a wireless device to a wireless station, an indication to provide earlier CSI feedback (e.g., wherein the indication comprises an indication that the wireless device has a reduced capability to receive messages); receiving from the wireless station, in response to the indication, a modified message (e.g., a Downlink Control Information or modified Medium Access Control Random Access Response), wherein the modified message triggers an earlier CSI feedback from the wireless device; transmitting to the wireless station, in response to receiving the modified message, the earlier CSI feedback using a message related to a RACH procedure (e.g., a Msg3); and completing a connection to the wireless station, e.g., in response to a repeated number of initial access messages broadcast from the wireless station and based on the transmitted CSI feedback.

CSI-RS ENHANCEMENT FOR PORT SELECTION CODEBOOK WITH CHANNEL RECIPROCITY (17442035)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

The present disclosure is about enhancing the Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS) for Port Selection Codebook with Channel Reciprocity in a cellular base station.

• The cellular base station includes at least one antenna, at least one radio, and a processor.
• The base station sends a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message to a wireless device.
• The base station provides a CSI-RS to the wireless device through one or more ports based on the RRC message.
• The RRC message contains information about the density of the CSI-RS, time domain locations of the CSI-RS, subset of ports for the wireless device to measure the CSI-RS, and subset of Code Division Multiplexing (CDM) groups for the wireless device to measure the CSI-RS.

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to apparatus, methods, computer-readable storage medium and computer program product for CSI-RS enhancement for Port Selection Codebook with Channel Reciprocity. A cellular base station, comprising: at least one antenna; at least one radio coupled to the at least one antenna; and a processor coupled to the at least one radio; wherein the cellular base station is configured to: provide a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message to a wireless device; and provide a Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS) to the wireless device via one or more ports based on the RRC message, wherein, the RRC message at least indicates one or more of: information on a density of the CSI-RS, information on time domain locations of the CSI-RS, information on a subset of ports for the wireless device to measure the CSI-RS, and information on a subset of Code Division Multiplexing (CDM) groups for the wireless device to measure the CSI-RS.

RADIO FREQUENCY HANDSET CALIBRATION BASED ON ANTENNA GAIN (18356898)

Main Inventor

Wassim El-Hassan

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a radio frequency device that uses antennas, transmitters, power detectors, memory, and processors.

• The device sends transmission signals through the antennas to create a beamformed signal with a specific direction and frequency.
• It determines the gains of the transmitters and antennas based on the transmission signals and a lookup table.
• The device calculates total gains by combining the gains of the transmitters and antennas.
• It adjusts the input powers based on the total gains and a back off power signal.

Abstract

A radio frequency device includes antennas, transmitters, power detectors, a memory storing instructions and an antenna gain lookup table, and processors. The processors execute instructions that include instructing the transmitters to send transmission signals through the antennas to form a first beamformed signal having a first beam direction and a first frequency using multiple input powers. The instructions include determining radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) gains associated with the transmitters based on the transmission signals using the power detectors. Moreover, the instructions include determining the antenna gains for the antennas based on the first beam direction and the first frequency of the first beamformed signal, and the antenna gain lookup table. The instructions also include determining total gains based on the RFIC gains and the antenna gains, and adjusting the input powers based on the total gains and a back off power signal.

Techniques for Pathloss Reference Signal Measurement in Unlicensed Bands (17593838)

Main Inventor

Jie Cui

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a technique for wireless communications in an unlicensed band.

• The wireless device receives a request to perform a pathloss reference signal (PLRS) measurement procedure.
• The device accumulates a first number of PLRS measurements within a PLRS switching period.
• The device measures a second number of PLRS signals during the PLRS switching period, which is less than the first number.
• The device determines to extend the PLRS switching period.
• The device listens for a PLRS signal during the extended PLRS switching period.

Abstract

A technique for wireless communications in a wireless system including: receiving, by a wireless device, a request to perform a pathloss reference signal (PLRS) measurement procedure in an unlicensed band, wherein the wireless device is configured to accumulate a first number of PLRS measurements within a PLRS switching period to perform the PLRS measurement procedure, wherein the first number of PLRS measurements is more than one, measuring, by the wireless device, a second number of PLRS signals during the PLRS switching period, wherein the second number is less than the first number of PLRS measurements within the PLRS switching period, determining, by the wireless device, to extend the PLRS switching period, and listening, by the wireless device, for a PLRS signal during the extended PLRS switching period.

METHOD FOR ENHANCED HARQ-ACK FEEDBACK IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS (17441680)

Main Inventor

Hong HE

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method to improve Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ)-ACK in a 5G wireless communications system.

• HARQ-ACK is a mechanism used in wireless communication to acknowledge the successful reception of data packets.
• In 5G systems, a user equipment (UE) can receive either a semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) transmission or a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) transmission during a HARQ-ACK window.
• The UE generates a HARQ-ACK information bit based on the received transmission.
• The UE is configured with an offset value (k) and a length (l) of the HARQ-ACK window associated with an uplink transmission slot (n) of a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) transmission.
• The starting slot of the HARQ-ACK window is determined as n−k.
• If a valid uplink transmission slot is not available, the UE transmits the HARQ-ACK information bit in the uplink transmission slot n of the PUCCH transmission.

Abstract

Some embodiments include an apparatus, method, and computer program product for enhanced Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ)-ACK in a fifth generation (5G) wireless communications system. A user equipment (UE) can receive, during a HARQ-ACK window, a semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) transmission or a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) transmission corresponding to a SPS PDSCH release. The UE can generate a Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ)-ACK information bit corresponding to the reception. The UE can be configured with an offset value, k, and a length, l, of the HARQ-ACK window associated with an uplink transmission slot n, of a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) transmission, and determine a starting slot of the HARQ-ACK window as n−k. When a corresponding valid uplink transmission slot is not available, the UE can transmit the HARQ-ACK information bit in the uplink transmission slot n of the PUCCH transmission.

SMALL GAP DURING UPLINK SWITCH IN MULTI-TRP (17441399)

Main Inventor

Qiming LI

Brief explanation

This patent application describes a wireless device that can control the downlink transmission for multi-TRP (Transmission Reception Point) communication.

• The wireless device includes at least one antenna and at least one radio that is connected to the antenna.
• The device also has a processor that is connected to the radio and is responsible for controlling the device's operations.
• The processor is programmed to determine when a gap period is needed between two uplink transmissions to a cellular base station.
• The first uplink transmission is sent via a first TRP, and the second uplink transmission is sent via a second TRP.
• The processor then ensures that the two uplink transmissions are performed consecutively with the gap period applied between them.

This innovation allows for more efficient and controlled communication between the wireless device and the cellular base station, especially in multi-TRP scenarios.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing downlink control for multi-TRP transmission. A wireless device, comprising: at least one antenna; at least one radio coupled to the at least one antenna; and a processor coupled to the at least one radio and configured to cause the wireless device to: determine a gap period is to be applied between a first uplink transmission to a cellular base station via a first transmission reception point (TRP) and a second uplink transmission to the cellular base station via a second TRP; and perform the first and second uplink transmissions consecutively with the gap period applied between them.

AP-SRS TRIGGERING OFFSET ENHANCEMENT FOR FURTHER ENHANCED MIMO (17441152)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about improving MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) technology in wireless communication systems.

- It introduces a method for enhancing AP-SRS (Access Point-Sounding Reference Signal) triggering offset to further improve MIMO. - The method involves a User Equipment (UE) receiving offset information related to AP-SRS transmission. - The UE then determines a slot offset for the AP-SRS transmission based on the received offset information. - Using the determined slot offset, the UE identifies a specific slot for the AP-SRS transmission. - Finally, the UE performs the AP-SRS transmission in the determined specific slot. - The patent application covers various aspects such as apparatus, methods, computer-readable memory media, and computer program products related to this enhanced MIMO technology.

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to AP-SRS triggering offset enhancement for further enhanced MIMO. User equipment (UE), base stations, apparatus, methods, computer-readable memory media, and computer program products are disclosed. The UE may be configured to receive an offset information associated with AP-SRS transmission of the UE; determine a slot offset associated with the AP-SRS transmission, at least based on the offset information; determine a specific slot for the AP-SRS transmission, based on the determined slot offset; and perform the AP-SRS transmission in the determined specific slot.

COUNTING ACTIVE RESOURCES FOR UE PROCESSING COMPLEXITY RELATED CAPABILITY (17441797)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a technology for counting active resources in a cellular base station.

• The cellular base station includes antennas, radios, and a processor.
• The technology counts the total number of active resources in a slot.
• An active resource refers to the number of CSI (Channel State Information) resources that a UE (User Equipment) needs to process simultaneously in a slot.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for counting active resources for UE processing complexity related capability. A cellular base station may comprise at least one antenna; at least one radio coupled to the at least one antenna; and a processor coupled to the at least one radio. The cellular base station is configured to count a total number of active resources in a slot, wherein an active resource is defined for counting a number of CSI resources a UE needs to process simultaneously in a slot.

TIME DOMAIN RESOURCE ALLOCATION FOR MOBILE COMMUNICATION (18219261)

Main Inventor

Debdeep CHATTERJEE

Brief explanation

This patent application is about time domain resource allocations in wireless communications systems. It describes various methods and techniques for efficient allocation of resources in the time domain for wireless communication.

• Time-domain symbol determination and indication: The patent application proposes a method to determine and indicate the symbols used in the physical downlink shared channel and physical uplink shared channel. This is done by combining higher layer information and downlink control information signaling.

• Time domain resource allocations for mini-slot operations: The patent application introduces a technique for allocating resources in mini-slots, which are smaller units of time within a larger time frame. This allows for more flexible and efficient use of resources.

• Rules for postponing and dropping for multiple mini-slot transmission: The patent application defines rules for postponing or dropping multiple mini-slot transmissions. This helps in managing and optimizing the allocation of resources when there are multiple transmissions happening simultaneously.

• Collision handling of sounding reference signals: The patent application addresses the issue of collisions between sounding reference signals and semi-statically or semi-persistently configured uplink transmissions. It proposes a method to handle these collisions and ensure efficient use of resources.

Overall, this patent application presents innovative techniques for time domain resource allocations in wireless communications systems, aiming to improve efficiency and performance.

Abstract

Systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for time domain resource allocations in wireless communications systems. Disclosed embodiments include time-domain symbol determination and/or indication using a combination of higher layer and downlink control information signaling for physical downlink shared channel and physical uplink shared channel; time domain resource allocations for mini-slot operations; rules for postponing and dropping for multiple mini-slot transmission; and collision handling of sounding reference signals with semi-statically or semi-persistently configured uplink transmissions. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.

ELECTRONIC MESSAGE USER INTERFACE (18223905)

Main Inventor

Alan C. DYE

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a technique for electronic message user interfaces.

• The technique involves displaying an electronic message user interface on a display.
• User input can be received through a touch-sensitive surface, a rotatable input mechanism, or peripherals like a microphone.
• The purpose of this technique is to enable users to access, compose, and manipulate electronic messages efficiently.

Abstract

A technique for electronic message user interfaces. In particular, the technique displays, on a display, an electronic message user interface and receives user input from a touch-sensitive surface, a rotatable input mechanism, and/or peripherals such as a microphone to access, compose, and manipulate electronic messages.

Distributed Encoding (18335669)

Main Inventor

Maneli Noorkami

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes techniques for encoding recorded content for distribution to other computing devices.

- The first computing device creates recorded content and wants to transmit it to a second computing device that can present the content. - The first computing device detects available computing nodes that can encode the recorded content in formats supported by the second computing device. - The recorded content is offloaded to the computing nodes via a network interface for encoding in the desired formats. - The second computing device receives a user request to stream content recorded by the first computing device. - The second computing device requests the content in a specific format that is being encoded by a computing node assisting the first computing device.

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed relating to encoding recorded content for distribution to other computing devices. In some embodiments, a first computing device creates recorded content for transmission to a second computing device configured to present the recorded content. To encode the recorded content, the first computing device detects, via a network interface of the first computing device, one or more computing nodes available to encode the recorded content in one or more formats supported by the second computing device. The first computing device offloads the recorded content via the network interface to the one or more computing nodes for encoding in the one or more formats. In some embodiments, the second computing device receives a request from a user to stream content recorded by a first computing device and requests the content in a first format being encoded by a computing node assisting the first computing device.

Block-Based Low Latency Rate Control (18296351)

Main Inventor

Felix C. Fernandes

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for controlling the encoding rate in an encoding system that uses wavelet transform to decompose pixel blocks into subbands stored as wavelet blocks (WBs).

• Wavelet transform is used to decompose pixel blocks into subbands for encoding.
• Quantization parameters (QPs) for the subbands are estimated to minimize distortion while staying within a rate limit.
• Rate and distortion curves are generated for each subband using unquantized DCT histogram and bit count statistics.
• A bisection search is used to find points on the curves where the slope is the same for all curves.
• The QPs associated with these equally sloped points are the optimal QPs for the wavelet block.

Abstract

Block-based, low latency rate control for an encoding system in which a wavelet transform decomposes pixel blocks into subbands stored as subbands in wavelet blocks (WBs) for encoding. Quantization parameters (QPs) for the subbands in each WB are estimated using a method that minimizes wavelet-inverse distortion given a rate bound. For each subband, a rate curve is generated based on an unquantized DCT histogram and bit count statistics for the subband, and a distortion curve is generated based on the unquantized DCT histogram and a distortion estimate for the subband that is estimated using a masked estimator. Once the rate-distortion curves for the subbands are generated, a bisection search may be used to find a point on each curve where the slope is the same for all the curves. The QPs associated with those equally sloped points are the global minimizing QPs for the wavelet block.

CAMERA WITH IMAGE SENSOR SHIFTING (18353805)

Main Inventor

Shashank Sharma

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that can move an image sensor in multiple directions.

• The actuator includes a magnet and coil arrangement to generate the necessary magnetic field for movement.
• A position sensing arrangement is included to accurately track the position of the image sensor.
• A flexure arrangement is used to provide stability and precision in the movement of the image sensor.
• The actuator also includes a coil structure and coil carrier assembly for efficient and reliable operation.

Abstract

Various embodiments include a camera voice coil motor (VCM) actuator configured to shift an image sensor along multiple axes. Some embodiments include a magnet and coil arrangement. Some embodiments include a position sensing arrangement. Some embodiments include a flexure arrangement. Some embodiments include a coil structure and coil carrier assembly.

CAMERA ACTUATOR WITH MOVING COILS AND DYNAMIC FLEX CIRCUIT (18353827)

Main Inventor

Nicholas D. Smyth

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a camera with a movable frame that is connected to a lens group or image sensor. The camera includes an actuator with moving coils and a flexible circuit. 

• The camera has an actuator with moving coils and a flexible circuit.
• The movable frame is fixedly connected to a lens group or image sensor.
• The actuator is a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that moves the movable frame relative to stationary structures of the camera.
• The VCM actuator includes a coil connected to the movable frame and a magnet connected to the stationary structure(s).
• The flexible circuit provides an electrical connection between the coil and the stationary structure(s).
• A portion of the flexible circuit allows for motion of the movable frame enabled by the VCM actuator.

Abstract

Various embodiments include a camera having an actuator with one or more moving coils and a dynamic flex circuit. In some embodiments, the camera may include a movable frame that is fixedly coupled with a lens group or an image sensor. The actuator may be a voice coil motor (VCM) actuator that moves the movable frame relative to one or more stationary structures of the camera. The VCM actuator may include a coil coupled with the movable frame, and a magnet coupled with the stationary structure(s). The dynamic flex circuit may be configured to provide an electrical connection between the coil and the stationary structure(s), and a portion of the dynamic flex circuit may provide service loop to allow motion of the movable frame enabled by the VCM actuator.

Proactive Provision of Positioning Information Based on User Context (18305723)

Main Inventor

Glenn Donald MacGougan

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a system and methods for providing location services.

- The system receives indications that an electronic device is in transit to a defined location. - It establishes a first fence boundary for the defined location. - Once the electronic device crosses the first fence boundary, the system receives an indication and establishes a second fence for the defined location. - The second fence provides a finer granularity fence for the defined location compared to the first fence.

Abstract

Embodiments described herein provide for a system, a non-transitory machine-readable medium, and methods to provide location services. In an embodiment, a method provides receiving at least one indication that an electronic device is in transit to at least one defined location, establishing a first fence boundary for the at least one defined location, receiving an indication that the electronic device has crossed the first fence boundary and is in transit to a defined location, and establishing a second fence for the defined location, where the second fence provides a finer granularity fence for the defined location than the first fence.

MISSED TELEPHONE CALL MANAGEMENT FOR A PORTABLE MULTIFUNCTION DEVICE (18220221)

Main Inventor

Scott FORSTALL

Brief explanation

The patent application describes an electronic device with a user interface for displaying incoming calls.

• When an incoming call is detected from a phone number that is not in the contact list, the device displays the phone number.
• When an incoming call is detected from a phone number that is in the contact list, the device displays the associated name and/or graphic without showing the phone number.

Abstract

In accordance with some embodiments, an electronic device is described. A user interface is displayed while detecting an incoming call from a first phone number. In response to detecting the incoming call and in accordance with a determination that the first phone number for the incoming call does not correspond to an entry in a contact list, the first phone number corresponding to the incoming call is displayed. In response to detecting the incoming call and in accordance with a determination that the first number for the incoming call corresponds to a first entry in the contact list, a name associated with the first entry and/or a graphic associated with the first entry is displayed, without displaying the first phone number.

USER EQUIPMENT AGGREGATION (18132316)

Main Inventor

Sudeep Manithara Vamanan

Brief explanation

- This patent application is about user equipment (UE) aggregation, which involves combining multiple UEs into a group.

- The UE aggregation group is created based on a subscription with a network. - Configuration information, including details about the group, its member UEs, their roles, and radio access capability signaling, is stored. - When a UE registers with the network, the UE aggregation group is indicated to the network. - The network then enables a communication capability that allows the UEs in the group to communicate together. - The configuration information is used to facilitate this aggregated communication capability.

Abstract

The present application relates to user equipment (UE) aggregation. For instance, a UE aggregation group is defined based on a subscription of multiple UEs with a network. Configuration information identifying the UE aggregation group, its member UEs, the role of each UE (e.g., whether a group leader or, otherwise, a group member), and/or radio access capability signaling (RACS) is stored. Upon a registration of a UE, the UE aggregation group is indicated to the network. The network then enables an aggregated communication capability to the UEs of the UE aggregation group based on the configuration information.

DISCOVERY FRAMES AND GROUP ADDRESSED FRAMES TRANSMISSION (18142149)

Main Inventor

Guoqing LI

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes apparatuses and methods for implementing communication using discovery frames and group addressed frames.

- The method involves generating a first frame that is individually addressed to a specific electronic device, indicated by setting the association identifier (AID) value of the frame to a first value. - The method also involves generating a second frame that is addressed to a group of electronic devices, indicated by setting the AID value of the frame to a second value different from the first value. - Both the first and second frames are then transmitted to their respective destinations.

Abstract

Some embodiments of this disclosure include apparatuses and methods for implementing discovery frames and group addressed frames communication. For example, some embodiments relate to a method including generating a first frame to be transmitted to a first electronic device. An association identifier (AID) value of the first frame is set to a first value to indicate that the first frame is an individually addressed frame addressed to the first electronic device. The method further includes generating a second frame to be transmitted to a group of one or more electronic devices. An AID value of the second frame is set to a second value different from the first value. The method also includes transmitting the first frame and the second frame.

SECURE STORAGE AND PROCESSING OF SIM DATA (18313813)

Main Inventor

Deepak DASH

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes techniques for managing SIM data for a wireless device.

- The SIM data is encrypted using an encryption key by a processor external to a secure element. - The encrypted SIM data is stored in the secure element and in a non-volatile memory (NVM) of the wireless device. - The encryption key is stored in a secure NVM of the wireless device. - Both the encrypted SIM data and the encryption key are required to decrypt and recover the SIM data.

Abstract

This application describes techniques for managing subscriber identity module (SIM) data for a wireless device, including secure storage and processing of SIM data. Select SIM data is encrypted using an encryption key by a processor external to a secure element, e.g., a universal integrated circuit card (UICC) or electronic UICC (eUICC), and at least a portion of the select SIM data is stored in the secure element. The select SIM data can be divided into multiple parts, where a first part of the encrypted SIM data is stored in the secure element, while a second part of the encrypted SIM data is stored external to the secure element, such as in a non-volatile memory (NVM) of the wireless device. The encryption key is stored in a secure NVM of the wireless device. The encrypted SIM data and the encryption key are required to decrypt and recover the SIM data.

METHODS FOR PATHLOSS REFERENCE SIGNAL ACTIVATION (17442983)

Main Inventor

Qiming Li

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes methods and systems for activating beams for beam switching based on measurements of a downlink reference signal.

- The reference signal is of QCL Type-D and is used as a reference for downlink pathloss measurements. - A UE (User Equipment) measures and reports the RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) of the reference signal to a base station. - Based on the reported RSRP measurements, the base station can activate a target pathloss reference signal to command the UE to update pathloss measurements for uplink power control of a corresponding beam. - The UE determines whether the target pathloss reference signal is considered known for uplink power control based on the timing relationship between the reception of the reference signal, transmission of the RSRP measurement, and reception of the activation command.

Abstract

Methods and systems to activate beams for beam switching based on measurements of a downlink reference signal that is QCL Type-D with a downlink pathloss reference signal are disclosed. A UE may measure and report to a base station the RSRP of the reference signal that is QCL Type-D with a target downlink pathloss reference signal. Based on the reported RSRP measurements, the base station may activate the target pathloss reference signal to command the UE to update the pathloss measurements of the target pathloss reference signal for uplink power control of a beam corresponding to the target pathloss reference signal. The UE may determine whether the target pathloss reference signal is considered known for uplink power control based on the timing relationship among the reception of the reference signal from the base station, the transmission of the RSRP measurement of the reference signal, and reception of the activation command.

HYBRID MEASUREMENT GAP OPERATION (17440444)

Main Inventor

Qiming LI

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about apparatuses, systems, and methods for hybrid measurement gap operation in wireless networks.

- A network-side device provides a hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration to a wireless device. - The hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration schedules measurement operations of the wireless device based on hybrid measurement gap patterns. - The wireless device receives the hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration and performs measurement operations according to the scheduled hybrid measurement gap patterns. - The innovation aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of measurement operations in wireless networks.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for hybrid measurement gap operation. A network-side device may provide a hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration to a wireless device, the hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration scheduling measurement operation of the wireless device in accordance with hybrid measurement gap patterns. The wireless device may receive the hybrid measurement gap (MG) configuration, and thus perform measurement operation based on the hybrid measurement gap patterns as scheduled.

METHOD FOR NETWORK ELEMENT, NETWORK ELEMENT, METHOD FOR USER EQUIPMENT, USER EQUIPMENT AND APPARATUS (17441398)

Main Inventor

Qiming LI

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for a network element to communicate with a user equipment (UE) in a wireless network.

• The method involves determining multiple concurrent measurement gap (MG) patterns.
• The network element encodes a message that includes MG configuration information for the UE.
• The MG configuration information includes an indication of the multiple concurrent MG patterns, which includes time offsets for each pattern.
• The network element then transmits the message to the UE.

Abstract

A method for a network element is provided. The method comprises: determining multiple concurrent measurement gap (MG) patterns; encoding a message for transmission to a user equipment (UE) including MG configuration information that includes an indication of the multiple concurrent MG patterns, wherein the indication of the multiple concurrent MG patterns includes at least time offsets for respective MG patterns; and transmitting the message to the UE.

Enhanced Packet Filtering (18357012)

Main Inventor

Martin Kugler

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about techniques for wireless communications that involve filtering packets for transmission between a user equipment (UE) and a base station.

- The techniques involve using higher layer information, such as a flow identifier, to filter packets efficiently. - The device described in the patent application can generate various tables and use them to perform the packet filtering. - The goal of the invention is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of wireless communications by filtering packets based on higher layer information.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to techniques for performing wireless communications including filtering packets for transmission between a user equipment (UE) and a base station. Techniques for filtering packets using higher layer information, such as a flow identifier, are disclosed. A device may generate various tables and may use the tables to filter packets efficiently.

MCG FAILURE RECOVERY ENHANCEMENT IN DC MODE (17598093)

Main Inventor

Fangli Xu

Brief explanation

This patent application describes methods and systems for a wireless communication device (UE) to recover from radio link failures in a multi-radio dual connectivity (MR-DC) system. Specifically, it focuses on situations where the secondary cell group (SCG) is deactivated or not enabled.

• The UE can activate the SCG when a radio link failure is detected and the SCG is deactivated, allowing the UE to use the SCG link for transmitting and receiving signaling messages or data during the recovery process.
• If the UE is configured to add the SCG under certain conditions but those conditions have not been met, the UE can check if the MCG link failure is one of the conditions and if the radio link quality of the SCG is above a certain threshold.
• If the radio link quality of the SCG exceeds the threshold, the UE can apply the SCG configuration to add the SCG, even if the other conditions for adding the SCG have not been satisfied.

Abstract

Methods and systems are disclosed for a UE of a wireless communication network to recover from MCG radio link failures in a MR-DC system when the SCG is deactivated or otherwise not enabled. When a MCG link failure is detected and the SCG is deactivated, the UE may activate the SCG for the UE to use the SCG link to transmit and receive signaling messages or data as part of the MCG failure recovery procedure. When the MCG link failure is detected and the UE is configured to add the SCG upon the satisfaction of certain condition, but the condition has not occurred, the UE may check to determine whether one condition is MCG failure and whether the radio link quality of the SCG exceeds a threshold. If the radio link quality of the SCG exceeds the threshold, the UE may apply the SCG configuration to add the SCG.

MEASUREMENT GAP CONFIGURATION FOR BANDWIDTH PART SWITCHING (17441244)

Main Inventor

Dawei ZHANG

Brief explanation

This patent application is about techniques for generating a report result based on measurements performed during a reporting period. The measurements are performed on a reference signal at different bandwidth parts (BWP) and measurement gaps. The configuration of the measurement gaps is determined based on the initial BWP configuration and the BWP configuration after switching. 

• The patent application is about generating a report result based on measurements performed during a reporting period.
• The measurements are performed on a reference signal at different bandwidth parts (BWP) and measurement gaps.
• The configuration of the measurement gaps is determined based on the initial BWP configuration and the BWP configuration after switching.

Abstract

Some aspects of this disclosure relate to apparatuses and methods for implementing techniques for generating a report result based on a set of measurements performed at measurement gaps during a reporting period. The set of measurements are performed on a reference signal at a first bandwidth part (BWP) or a second BWP when BWP switching is performed. The first BWP has a first measurement gap configuration, the second BWP has a second measurement gap configuration. The measurement gaps of the reporting period are configured according to a third measurement gap configuration that is determined based on the first measurement gap configuration and the second measurement gap configuration.

NETWORK SLICING WITH RADIO ACCESS NETWORK (RAN) SHARING (17440441)

Main Inventor

Fangli XU

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an approach for a base station to generate and transmit messages to a user equipment (UE).

• The base station generates a first message associated with a cell it supports, containing a PLMN identity index and a list of network slices supported by the PLMN.
• The base station also generates a second message associated with neighboring cells, containing the same PLMN identity index and a list of network slice data supported by the neighboring cells.
• The second message includes a sub-list of neighboring cell data within the network slice data.
• The purpose of these messages is to provide information about network slices and neighboring cells to the UE.

Abstract

An approach is described for a base station to generate a first message and a second message. The base station transmits the first message and the second message to a user equipment (UE). The first message is associated with a cell supported by the base station and includes a first public land mobile network (PLMN) identity index and a first list of one or more network slices supported by a first PLMN associated with the first PLMN identity index. The second message is associated with one or more neighboring cells, and includes the first PLMN identity index and a second list of one or more network slice data associated the first PLMN as supported by the one or more neighboring cells. In addition, at least one of the one or more network slice data in the second list includes a sub-list of one or more neighboring cell data.

UTILIZING SSB MEASUREMENTS TO IMPROVE SCELL ACTIVATION (18119105)

Main Inventor

Qunfeng He

Brief explanation

The patent application describes methods, systems, and computer-readable medium for performing operations related to time or frequency synchronization in a secondary cell (SCell) before receiving certain commands.

• The operations involve determining synchronization information for one or more candidate synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) for the SCell.
• The synchronization information is determined before receiving a transmission configuration indication (TCI) state activation command or a SCell activation command.
• Once the TCI state activation command is received, at least one signal from the SCell is received using the determined synchronization information for one of the candidate SSBs.

Abstract

Disclosed are methods, systems, and computer-readable medium to perform operations including: determining time or frequency synchronization information for each of one or more candidate synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) for a secondary cell (SCell) before receipt of a transmission configuration indication (TCI) state activation command or a SCell activation command, receiving the TCI state activation command, and based on the received TCI state activation command, receiving at least one signal from the SCell using the determined time or frequency synchronization information for one of the one or more candidate SSBs.

SENSING FOR USER EQUIPMENT (UE) SUPPORTING SIDELINK DISCONTINUOUS RECEPTION (SL-DRX) (17439772)

Main Inventor

Zhibin WU

Brief explanation

This patent application is about managing power consumption of a user equipment (UE) in a 5G wireless communications system that supports sidelink discontinuous reception (SL-DRX). The UE determines a candidate slot for sending a signal based on data sensed in different periods over a history window. The system includes a processor that determines a set of candidate slots that are sufficiently sensed based on the sensed periods over the history window. The processor also determines a subset of candidate slots based on an occupancy threshold over the history window. From this subset, the processor selects a candidate slot and transmits a first signal through the selected slot via the transceiver.

• The patent application is about managing power consumption of a UE in a 5G wireless communications system.
• The UE determines a candidate slot for sending a signal based on data sensed in different periods over a history window.
• The system includes a processor that determines a set of candidate slots that are sufficiently sensed based on the sensed periods over the history window.
• The processor also determines a subset of candidate slots based on an occupancy threshold over the history window.
• From this subset, the processor selects a candidate slot and transmits a first signal through the selected slot via the transceiver.

Abstract

Some embodiments include a system, method, and computer program product for managing power consumption of a user equipment (UE) supporting sidelink discontinuous reception (SL-DRX) in a 5G wireless communications system. A UE determines a candidate slot for sending a signal based on data sensed in various periods over a history window. Some embodiments include a processor that can determine set of candidate slots that are sufficiently sensed based on sensed periods over a history window, and determine a subset of candidate slots of the set of candidate slots based at least on an occupancy threshold over the history window. The processor can select a candidate slot from the subset of candidate slots, and transmit via the transceiver, a first signal via the selected candidate slot.

DETERMINING PROCESSING TIME FOR HIGH FREQUENCY RANGE (17440615)

Main Inventor

Hong HE

Brief explanation

- This patent application is about a system for improving processing times in a 5G wireless communications system.

- In a 5G system, when operating at higher frequency subcarrier spacing, the time slots for receiving and transmitting data become shorter. - Some user equipment (UE) may struggle to process the data quickly enough, particularly for certain types of data channels. - To address this, a flexible minimum processing time is used to accommodate different UE processing capabilities. - The UE reports its processing capabilities to the 5G Node B (gNB). - The gNB then schedules communications based on the UE's processing capabilities. - The gNB takes into account whether the UE has a single or multiple processing engines. - The gNB also uses single-slot and multi-slot scheduling techniques to prevent timing issues.

Abstract

Some embodiments include an apparatus, method, and computer program product for facilitating processing times in a 5G wireless communications system. When operating at higher frequency subcarrier spacing (SCS), slot times for receiving and/or transmitting data between user equipment (UE) and a 5G Node B (gNB) become shorter. Because of this, some UE may face difficulty in processing physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH), physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH), and/or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) data with sufficient speed. To address potential limitations, a flexible minimum processing time may be used to accommodate different UE processing capabilities. The UE may report its processing capabilities to the gNB. The gNB may then schedule communications according to the UE’s processing capabilities. The gNB may consider whether the UE implements a single or multiple processing engines. Further, the gNB may apply single-slot and/or multi-slot scheduling techniques to also prevent timing issues.

PUCCH AND CELL GROUPING CAPABILITY FOR NR-CA AND NR-DC (17442342)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a technology that enhances the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) and Cell Grouping Capability for NR-CA and NR-DC in wireless devices.

• Wireless devices can transmit a PUCCH capability report to a base station.
• The report includes information about the device's PUCCH grouping capability and PUCCH location capability.
• This technology improves the efficiency and performance of the PUCCH channel in wireless communication.
• It enables better control and coordination between the base station and wireless devices.
• The enhanced PUCCH and Cell Grouping Capability is applicable to NR-CA (New Radio Carrier Aggregation) and NR-DC (New Radio Dual Connectivity) technologies.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing an enhancement for PUCCH and Cell Grouping Capability for NR-CA and NR-DC. A wireless device may transmit, to a base station, a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) capability report comprising at least one of PUCCH grouping capability information and a PUCCH location capability information.

Technologies For Uplink Gap Triggering And Operation (17442482)

Main Inventor

Huaning Niu

Brief explanation

- The patent application is about devices and components for triggering and using uplink gaps in cellular networks.

- The invention involves a method where a user equipment (UE) transmits an indication to a base station about its capability or preference for using an uplink gap for body proximity sensing or transceiver calibration. - The method further includes activating a specific uplink gap configuration based on a command received from the network. - Once the uplink gap is activated, the UE can perform operations related to body proximity sensing or transceiver calibration within the defined uplink gap. - The invention aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of body proximity sensing and transceiver calibration in cellular networks.

Abstract

The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for triggering and using uplink gaps in cellular networks. A method of an embodiment comprises: transmitting, to a base station, an indication of an uplink (UL) gap capability or preference of the UE for body proximity sensing (BPS) or transceiver calibration; activating a UL gap configuration based on an activation command received from a network; and performing operations for BPS or transceiver calibration within a UL gap defined by the UL gap configuration.

HARQ PROCESS HANDLING FOR MULTI-DCI MULTI-TRP OPERATION (17441593)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

- This patent application describes apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing downlink control for multi-TRP transmission.

- The invention involves a network-side device transmitting downlink control information to a wireless device. - The downlink control information is used to schedule downlink transmission to the wireless device from multiple transmission reception points. - The downlink transmission may involve Hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) process and/or system information transmission. - The downlink control information includes information about scheduling HARQ processes from different transmission reception points (TRPs). - The downlink control information also includes information about scheduling system information (SI) transmission from different TRPs. - The wireless device receives the downlink transmissions from the multiple TRPs based on the downlink control information.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing downlink control for multi-TRP transmission. A network-side device may provide a downlink control information transmission to a wireless device scheduling downlink transmission to the wireless device from multiple transmission reception points. The downlink transmission may relate to Hybrid automatic repeat request process and/or system information transmission. And the downlink control information may include information about scheduling of HARQ processes from different TRPs, and/or information about scheduling of SI transmission from different TRPs. The wireless device may receive the downlink transmissions from the plurality of transmission reception points in accordance with the downlink control information.

MULTIPLEXING UPLINK CONTROL INFORMATION (UCI) ON PHYSICAL UPLINK SHARED CHANNEL (PUSCH) (17441245)

Main Inventor

Wenshu ZHANG

Brief explanation

This patent application describes techniques for a user equipment (UE) to transmit data and control information without using a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH). The UE determines a set of configured grant (CG) physical uplink shared channels (PUSCHs) that overlap with the PUCCH and are used to transmit data to the base station. 

• The UE determines a first set of CG PUSCHs that overlap with the PUCCH and are configured to transmit data from the UE to the base station.
• The UE excludes a third set of CG PUSCHs from the first set to determine a second set of CG PUSCHs.
• The UE selects a CG PUSCH from the second set to carry the uplink control information (UCI) that would normally be transmitted on the PUCCH.
• The UE transmits the selected CG PUSCH including the UCI, eliminating the need to transmit the PUCCH.

Abstract

Some aspects of this disclosure relate to apparatuses and methods for implementing techniques for a user equipment (UE) to transmit a configured grant (CG) physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) including an uplink control information (UCI) without transmitting a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH). The UE determines, based on a configuration received from the base station, a first set of CG PUSCHs. Each CG PUSCH of the first set of CG PUSCHs overlaps with the PUCCH, and is configured to transmit data from the UE to the base station. The UE further determines a second set of CG PUSCHs by excluding a third set of CG PUSCHs from the first set of CG PUSCHs. and select a CG PUSCH from the second set of CG PUSCHs to carry the UCI contained in the PUCCH. The UE further transmits the selected CG PUSCH including the UCI without transmitting the PUCCH.

SCHEDULING RESTRICTION ENHANCEMENT FOR LTE AND NR DSS (17441154)

Main Inventor

Haitong SUN

Brief explanation

This patent application describes apparatuses, systems, and methods for supporting cross carrier scheduling in LTE and NR dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS).

• The patent application focuses on enabling a special Secondary Cell (sSCell) to schedule a special Primary Cell (SpCell) in a cellular base station.
• The cellular base station generates control information based on a set of criteria to support this scheduling.
• The control information includes various aspects such as Type3-PDCCH CSS configuration, SCell dormancy behavior, scheduling restrictions, USS configuration, and interaction with Multi-DCI Multi-TRP operation.
• The control information is sent to a wireless device, which then uses it to conduct corresponding performance.
• The patent application aims to simplify and optimize cross carrier scheduling in LTE and NR dynamic spectrum sharing, improving overall network efficiency and performance.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for supporting cross carrier scheduling in LTE and NR dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS). A cellular base station may generate control information in accordance with a set of criteria, wherein the set of criteria supports a special Secondary Cell (sSCell) which is a Secondary Cell (SCell) in scheduling a special Primary Cell (SpCell) which is either a Primary Cell (PCell) or a Primary Secondary Cell (PSCell). The cellular base station sends the control information to a wireless device. The control information may be associated with Type3-PDCCH CSS configuration including DCI Format 2_5 and 2_6, SCell dormancy behavior, scheduling restrictions, USS configuration including non-fallback and fallback DCI Formats, and interaction with Multi-DCI Multi-TRP operation. After receiving the control information, the wireless device may conduct corresponding performance.

ENHANCED UPLINK BEAM MANAGEMENT (18352324)

Main Inventor

Yushu ZHANG

Brief explanation

The patent application is about uplink beam management and power control in wireless communications systems.

• The patent application provides enhancements for Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH), Sounding Reference Signal (SRS), and Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUSCH) transmissions.
• The enhancements aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of uplink beam management and power control.
• The disclosed embodiments include systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable media for implementing these enhancements.
• The patent application also mentions that there may be other embodiments described and claimed in the application.

Abstract

Systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for uplink beam management and power control in wireless communications systems. Disclosed embodiments include beam management and power control enhancements for Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH), Sounding Reference Signal (SRS), and Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUSCH) transmissions. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.

PHYSICAL DOWNLINK CONTROL CHANNEL TRANSMISSION IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION (17442814)

Main Inventor

Hong He

Brief explanation

The patent application describes a method for configuring a search space in a network device, such as a user equipment or a next generation NodeB.

• The search space is configured with various parameters, including a transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state identifier, a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) repetition field, and a number of UE-specific search space (USS) repetitions for the PDCCH.
• The user equipment can perform beam switching in a search space set group (SSSG) based on the TCI states and other parameters like search space set (SSS) index, SSSG index, or a beam switching request (BSR) field value.
• The physical downlink control channel associated with the search space is transmitted to facilitate beam switching according to the configured search space information element.

Abstract

A user equipment (UE), or other network device (e.g., next generation NodeB (gNB)) component can operate to process or configure a search space information element (IE) that is configured with at least one of: a transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state identifier (ID) of a TCI, or a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) repetition field indicating a number of PDCCH repetitions, or a number of UE-specific search space (USS) repetitions for the PDCCH. A UE can perform search space set group (SSSG) beam switching based on one or more TCI states and at least one of: a search space set (SSS) index, an SSSG index, or a beam switching request (BSR) field value. A physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) associated with the search space can be transmitted for beam switching according to a search space information element.

CHANNEL OCCUPANCY RATE DETERMINATION IN UNLICENSED SPECTRUM (17441241)

Main Inventor

Seyed Ali Akbar FAKOORIAN

Brief explanation

- This patent application is about techniques for determining the channel occupancy rate of a channel between a user equipment (UE) and a base station in an unlicensed spectrum.

- The UE receives a measurement configuration from the base station, which instructs the UE to perform measurements on the channel. - The measurements can be either omni measurements or directional measurements, depending on the antenna element used by the UE. - Based on the performed measurements, the UE determines the channel occupancy rate of the channel. - The UE then transmits a report to the base station, indicating the channel occupancy rate.

Abstract

Some aspects of this disclosure relate to apparatuses and methods for implementing techniques for channel occupancy rate determination of a channel between a user equipment (UE) and a base station in an unlicensed spectrum. A UE can perform measurements based on a measurement configuration from the base station, and further determine a channel occupancy rate of the channel based on the performed measurements. The measurement configuration indicates to the UE to perform an omni measurement or a directional measurement by using an antenna element of the UE. The UE can further transmit a report to the base station to indicate the channel occupancy rate.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TIME-DOMAIN PRACH RESOURCE DETERMINATION IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION (17598038)

Main Inventor

Hong He

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes methods and apparatus for determining time-domain PRACH resources in wireless communication.

- It introduces a New Radio (NR) Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) configuration that includes information about when a User Equipment (UE) is allowed to transmit a PRACH preamble and the type of preamble format. - The application proposes determining a PRACH resource based on the received PRACH configuration, which includes RACH resource occasions (ROs) with gaps in between. - The PRACH procedure is initiated by transmitting the PRACH preamble on a RO based on the determined PRACH resource to a base station (BS). - The innovation aims to improve the efficiency and reliability of PRACH transmissions in wireless communication systems.

Abstract

Disclosed are methods and apparatus for determining time-domain PRACH resources in wireless communication. A New Radio (NR) Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) configuration comprising an indication of a time-domain PRACH resource type to determine when the UE is allowed to transmit a PRACH preamble and a type of preamble format may be received. Additionally, a PRACH resource based on the received PRACH configuration to transmit the PRACH preamble, wherein the PRACH resource includes RACH resource occasions (ROs) with gaps in between may be determined. Thereafter, a PRACH procedure may be initiated by transmitting the PRACH preamble on a RO based on the determined PRACH resource to a base station (BS).

NOISE MITIGATION FOR HEAD-MOUNTED DEVICE (18225036)

Main Inventor

Ivan S. MARIC

Brief explanation

- The patent application describes a head-mounted device that effectively manages heat and reduces noise output.

- The device includes a support member that extends across a flow channel and has multiple sections with different profiles and/or cross-sectional dimensions. - These different sections generate tonal noises at different frequencies, which helps mask the tonal noises among the broadband noises generated by the device. - The support member can be moved within the flow channel and is rigidly coupled to other components of the head-mounted device. - Additionally, the support member can draw heat away from other components of the device and dissipate it through the flow of air within the flow channel.

Abstract

A head-mounted device can effectively manage heat while also managing noise output in a manner that reduces the user's perception thereof. For example, a support member extending across a flow channel can provide multiple sections with different profiles and/or cross-sectional dimensions within the flow channel. Each of the profiles and/or cross-sectional dimensions can generate tonal noises at different frequencies, so that the tonal noises generated are distributed across multiple frequencies to mask such tonal noises among broadband noises that are generated by the head-mounted device. Such a support member can be moveably positioned within the flow channel and rigidly coupled to other components of the head-mounted device. Such a support member can also be used to draw heat away from other components of the head-mounted device to be dissipated by the flow of air within the flow channel.