Prosecution Insights
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Application No. 17/608,723

MULTI-TRP TRANSMISSION FOR DOWNLINK SEMI-PERSISTENT SCHEDULING

Final Rejection §103
Filed
Nov 03, 2021
Examiner
AREVALO, JOSEPH
Art Unit
2642
Tech Center
2600 — Communications
Assignee
Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ)
OA Round
5 (Final)
84%
Grant Probability
Favorable
6-7
OA Rounds
2y 10m
To Grant
99%
With Interview

Examiner Intelligence

Grants 84% — above average
84%
Career Allow Rate
709 granted / 842 resolved
+22.2% vs TC avg
Strong +21% interview lift
Without
With
+21.2%
Interview Lift
resolved cases with interview
Typical timeline
2y 10m
Avg Prosecution
39 currently pending
Career history
881
Total Applications
across all art units

Statute-Specific Performance

§101
4.2%
-35.8% vs TC avg
§103
56.6%
+16.6% vs TC avg
§102
24.7%
-15.3% vs TC avg
§112
4.2%
-35.8% vs TC avg
Black line = Tech Center average estimate • Based on career data from 842 resolved cases

Office Action

§103
DETAILED ACTION Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA . Response to Amendment/Remarks This Action is in response to Applicant’s amendment/Remarks filed on 12/17/2025. Claims 1-5, 7-11, 13-14, 16-17 and 21-22 are still pending in the present application. This Action is made FINAL. Claim Objections Claims 6 and 19 were cancelled previously on 05/22/2024. The Claims 6 and 19 appears Previously presented on 06/29/2025. Appropriate correction is required. Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103 In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status. The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action: A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102 of this title, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made. The factual inquiries set forth in Graham v. John Deere Co., 383 U.S. 1, 148 USPQ 459 (1966), that are applied for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103(a) are summarized as follows: 1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art. 2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue. 3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art. 4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness. This application currently names joint inventors. In considering patentability of the claims under 35 U.S.C. 103(a), the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned at the time any inventions covered therein were made absent any evidence to the contrary. Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and invention dates of each claim that was not commonly owned at the time a later invention was made in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 103(c) and potential 35 U.S.C. 102(e), (f) or (g) prior art under 35 U.S.C. 103(a) Claims 1-5, 7-11, 13-14, 16-17 and 21-22 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being un-patentable over MIAO et al Patent Application No. :( US 2022/0110138 A1) hereinafter referred as MIAO, in view of Ugurlu et al US Patent Application No.:( US 2020/0267755 A1) hereinafter referred as Ugurlu, in further view of Ahn et al (PCT/ KR2018/008843) using as a translation the US Patent No.:( US 11,838,795 B2) hereinafter referred as Ahn. For claim 1, MIAO teaches a method performed by a wireless device for configuring one or more wireless communications settings, the method comprising: determining a plurality of wireless communications configurations (paragraph [0104], lines 1-4). However, MIAO disclose all the subject matter of the claimed invention with the exemption of the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme; and receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as recited in claim 1. Ugurlu from the same or analogous art teaches the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme (See 720 fig. 7) (paragraphs [0004] lines 1-7 and [0077], lines 1-6) and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme (paragraph [0028], lines 1-13). Therefore, it would have been obvious for the person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filling to use the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme as taught by Ugurlu into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. The simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme can be modify/implemented by combining the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme with the device. This process is implemented as a hardware solution or as firmware solutions of Ugurlu into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. As disclosed in Ugurlu, the motivation for the combination would be to use the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications using the low latency which helps to reduce the delays in data transfer becoming more efficient and reliable for a faster and better communication. However, MIAO disclose all the subject matter of the claimed invention with the exemption of the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as recited in claim 1. Ahn from the same or analogous art teaches the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes (paragraph [0028], lines 1-13). Therefore, it would have been obvious for the person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filling to use the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as taught by Ahn into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. The receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes be modify/implemented by combining the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes with the device. This process is implemented as a hardware solution or as firmware solutions of Ahn into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. As disclosed in Ahn, the motivation for the combination would be to use the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency reducing control channel overhead, which improves network capacity and lowers power consumption for user devices (UEs). It achieves this by allocating a fixed set of radio resources and transmission parameters at the start of a call, eliminating the need for continuous scheduling grants, thus saving control channel resources becoming more efficient and reliable for a better communication. For claim 2, MIAO teaches the method, wherein simultaneously activating the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations is performed only when the wireless device is simultaneously communicating with multiple transmission points (paragraph [0151], lines 14-24). For claim 3, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the wireless device applies one or more of the low latency and/or reliability schemes by receiving multiple Transmission Configuration Indication, TCI, states (paragraphs [0005]-[0006], lines 1-5) and (paragraphs [0092], lines 1-10). For claim 4, MIAO teaches the method, wherein receiving the multiple TCI states corresponds to reception of the downlink SPS, with the applied low latency and/or reliability scheme (paragraphs [0008] and [0039], lines 6-13) common CORESET configuration is shared by multiple UE’s in a cell, so accordingly network take care alignment with all UE’s for this configuration. The PDCCH control region). For claim 5, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations in response to an activating Downlink Control Information, DCI, message (paragraphs [0091], lines 1-9). For claim 7, MIAO teaches the method, wherein determining the plurality of wireless communications configurations comprises communicating with a network node to determine the plurality of wireless communications configurations (paragraph [0279], lines 1-8). For claim 8, MIAO teaches the method, wherein determining the plurality of wireless communications configurations is done via Radio Resource Control, RRC (paragraph [0091], lines 1-9). For claim 9, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the low latency scheme and the reliability scheme include one or more of the group consisting of: spatial multiplexing, frequency multiplexing, slot-based time multiplexing, and mini-slot based time multiplexing (paragraph [0258], lines 1-13). For claim 10, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the one or more properties related to the low latency scheme and the one or more properties related to the reliability scheme include one or more of the group consisting of: a repetition factor for slot-based time repetition, a frequency domain resource allocation information for frequency repetition, a time domain resource allocation information for time repetition, and a configuration of additional TCI states in addition to what is indicated in the activating DCI (paragraph [0057], lines 1-8). For claim 11, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations are chosen based on a control message from the network node (paragraph [0279], lines 13-17). For claim 13, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the one or more of the low latency and/or reliability schemes are chosen based on a TCI field in a DCI message (paragraph [0091], lines 1-9). For claim 14, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability schemes is independent for each of the plurality of wireless communications configurations (paragraphs [0008] and [0039], lines 6-13) common CORESET configuration is shared by multiple UE’s in a cell, so accordingly network take care alignment with all UE’s for this configuration. The PDCCH control region). For claim 16, MIAO teaches a method performed by a base station for configuring one or more wireless communications settings, the method comprising: communicating with a wireless device such that a plurality of wireless communications configurations is configured for the wireless device (paragraph [0104], lines 1-4). However, MIAO disclose all the subject matter of the claimed invention with the exemption of the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme; and receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as recited in claim 16. Ugurlu from the same or analogous art teaches the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme (See 720 fig. 7) (paragraphs [0004] lines 1-7 and [0077], lines 1-6) and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme (paragraph [0028], lines 1-13). Therefore, it would have been obvious for the person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filling to use the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme as taught by Ugurlu into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. The simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme can be modify/implemented by combining the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations include configuration of one or more of a low latency and/or reliability scheme and one or more properties related to the low latency and/or reliability scheme with the device. This process is implemented as a hardware solution or as firmware solutions of Ugurlu into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. As disclosed in Ugurlu, the motivation for the combination would be to use the simultaneously activating at least two of the plurality of wireless communications using the low latency which helps to reduce the delays in data transfer becoming more efficient and reliable for a faster and better communication. However, MIAO disclose all the subject matter of the claimed invention with the exemption of the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as recited in claim 1. Ahn from the same or analogous art teaches the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes (paragraph [0028], lines 1-13). Therefore, it would have been obvious for the person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of filling to use the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes as taught by Ahn into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. The receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes be modify/implemented by combining the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency and/or reliability scheme wherein a fixed redundancy version sequence is applied when receiving SPS with one of the low latency and/or reliability schemes with the device. This process is implemented as a hardware solution or as firmware solutions of Ahn into the physical downlink control channel with multiple transmission reception points of MIAO. As disclosed in Ahn, the motivation for the combination would be to use the receiving downlink Semi-Persistent Scheduling, SPS, by applying one or more of the low latency reducing control channel overhead, which improves network capacity and lowers power consumption for user devices (UEs). It achieves this by allocating a fixed set of radio resources and transmission parameters at the start of a call, eliminating the need for continuous scheduling grants, thus saving control channel resources becoming more efficient and reliable for a better communication. For claim 17, MIAO teaches the method, wherein communicating with the wireless device such that the at least two of the plurality of wireless communications configurations are simultaneously activated is performed only when the wireless device is simultaneously communicating with at least two transmission points (paragraph [0151], lines 14-24). For claim 21, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the low latency scheme and the reliability scheme include one or more of the group consisting of: spatial multiplexing, frequency multiplexing, slot-based time multiplexing, and mini-slot based time multiplexing (paragraph [0258], lines 1-13). For claim 22, MIAO teaches the method, wherein the one or more properties related to the low latency scheme and the one or more properties related to the reliability scheme include one or more of the group consisting of: a repetition factor for slot based time repetition, a frequency domain resource allocation information for frequency repetition, a time domain resource allocation information for time repetition, and a configuration of additional Transmission Configuration Indicator, TCI, states in addition to what is indicated in the activating DCI (paragraph [0057], lines 1-8). Response to Arguments Applicant's arguments filed on 12/17/2025, with respect to claims 1 and 16 have been fully considered but they are not persuasive. Applicant asserts that AHN does not teach in claims 1 and 16, "receiving downlink SPS data.". However, the Examiner respectfully disagrees with such assertion. (See below for further clarification). In response to the preceding argument examiner respectfully submits that AHN teaches "receiving downlink SPS data.". AHN discloses 310 on fig 3 and teaches the wireless device receives an SPS configuration 310 from a BS. (this data from the base station to the wireless device is known as a downlink . The SPS configuration 310 may be received through a PDCCH or a radio resource control (RRC) message as disclosed on paragraph [0041]. The prior art should be considered as a whole. See also MPEP § 2141.02 [R-5] Paragraph VI. Claims must be given the broadest reasonable interpretation during examination and limitations appearing in the specification but not recited in the claim are not read into the claim (See M.P.E.P. 2111 [R-l]). Conclusion THIS ACTION IS MADE FINAL. See MPEP § 706.07(a). Applicant is reminded of the extension of time policy as set forth in 37 CFR 1.136(a). A shortened statutory period for reply to this final action is set to expire THREE MONTHS from the mailing date of this action. In the event a first reply is filed within TWO MONTHS of the mailing date of this final action and the advisory action is not mailed until after the end of the THREE-MONTH shortened statutory period, then the shortened statutory period will expire on the date the advisory action is mailed, and any extension fee pursuant to 37 CFR 1.136(a) will be calculated from the mailing date of the advisory action. In no event, however, will the statutory period for reply expire later than SIX MONTHS from the date of this final action. Any inquiry concerning this communication or earlier communications from the examiner should be directed to JOSEPH AREVALO whose telephone number is (571)270-3121. The examiner can normally be reached on M-F 8:30-5:00 PM. Examiner interviews are available via telephone, in-person, and video conferencing using a USPTO supplied web-based collaboration tool. To schedule an interview, Applicant is encouraged to use the USPTO Automated Interview Request (AIR) at http://www.uspto.gov/interviewpractice. If attempts to reach the examiner by telephone are unsuccessful, the examiner’s supervisor, Rafael Perez-Gutierrez can be reached on (571)272-7915. The fax phone number for the organization where this application or proceeding is assigned is 571-273-8300. Information regarding the status of an application may be obtained from the Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system. Status information for published applications may be obtained from either Private PAIR or Public PAIR. Status information for unpublished applications is available through Private PAIR only. For more information about the PAIR system, see http://pair-direct.uspto.gov. Should you have questions on access to the Private PAIR system, contact the Electronic Business Center (EBC) at 866-217-9197 (toll-free). If you would like assistance from a USPTO Customer Service Representative or access to the automated information system, call 800-786-9199 (IN USA OR CANADA) or 571-272-1000. /JOSEPH AREVALO/Primary Examiner, Art Unit 2642
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Prosecution Timeline

Nov 03, 2021
Application Filed
Nov 17, 2023
Non-Final Rejection — §103
May 22, 2024
Response Filed
Aug 28, 2024
Non-Final Rejection — §103
Dec 03, 2024
Response Filed
Mar 26, 2025
Final Rejection — §103
Jun 29, 2025
Response after Non-Final Action
Jul 25, 2025
Request for Continued Examination
Jul 28, 2025
Response after Non-Final Action
Sep 13, 2025
Non-Final Rejection — §103
Dec 17, 2025
Response Filed
Mar 26, 2026
Final Rejection — §103 (current)

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Study what changed to get past this examiner. Based on 5 most recent grants.

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Prosecution Projections

6-7
Expected OA Rounds
84%
Grant Probability
99%
With Interview (+21.2%)
2y 10m
Median Time to Grant
High
PTA Risk
Based on 842 resolved cases by this examiner. Grant probability derived from career allow rate.

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