Prosecution Insights
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Application No. 18/507,270

BEAM MANAGEMENT OF A LAYER-1 MILLIMETER WAVE REPEATER USING WIDEBAND SIGNAL

Non-Final OA §103
Filed
Nov 13, 2023
Examiner
REGO, DOMINIC E
Art Unit
2648
Tech Center
2600 — Communications
Assignee
Qualcomm Incorporated
OA Round
5 (Non-Final)
87%
Grant Probability
Favorable
5-6
OA Rounds
2y 4m
To Grant
94%
With Interview

Examiner Intelligence

Grants 87% — above average
87%
Career Allow Rate
784 granted / 902 resolved
+24.9% vs TC avg
Moderate +7% lift
Without
With
+7.1%
Interview Lift
resolved cases with interview
Typical timeline
2y 4m
Avg Prosecution
21 currently pending
Career history
923
Total Applications
across all art units

Statute-Specific Performance

§101
6.3%
-33.7% vs TC avg
§103
43.5%
+3.5% vs TC avg
§102
22.3%
-17.7% vs TC avg
§112
6.9%
-33.1% vs TC avg
Black line = Tech Center average estimate • Based on career data from 902 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 . Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103 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, 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 for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 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 the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the claimed invention(s) absent any evidence to the contrary. Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and effective filing dates of each claim that was not commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the later invention in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) for any potential 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) prior art against the later invention. Claims 1, 6, 8, 9, 16, 21, 23, 24, 29, and 30 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627). Regarding claim 1, Miao teaches an apparatus for wireless communication, comprising: one or more memories; and one or more processors, coupled to the one or more memories, configured to cause the apparatus to: receive a configuration associated with transmission of a wideband signal on a high frequency (HF) interface of the apparatus (Paragraph 0003…. mmWave (wideband signal) communications occur in an extremely high-frequency (EHF) band that includes frequencies from 30 to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Paragraph 0019….. The eNB 104 and the relay nodes may be equipped with mmWave radio access technology (RAT) interfaces (high frequency interface) to communicate over mmWave communication links Paragraph 0046….the eNB 104 may transmit a discovery signal message to the RN-5 128. The discovery signal message may include configuration information of mmWave (wide band) discovery signals that may be transmitted by other relay nodes in the coverage area 108. The eNB 104 may have knowledge of the discovery signal configurations of the other relay nodes in coverage area 108 due to respective PCell connections with each of the other relay nodes); and transmit, based at least in part on the configuration, the wideband signal on the HF interface (Paragraphs [0028-0030, 0059-0062], especially [0030], ….. Upon receiving the configuration message, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit one or more discovery signals based on the discovery signal configuration information. Paragraphs [0061-0062], …… At 412, the RN-5 128 may transmit a discovery signal confirmation response to the eNB 104. The discovery signal confirmation response may indicate that the RN-5 128 had successfully received the configuration information transmitted at 408. At 416, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit the discovery signal), but does not specifically teach wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface. However, in related art, Ryu teaches wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface (Paragraphs [0053-0055], especially paragraph [0053]…… while the disclosure herein refers to mmW base stations, it should be understood that the disclosure also applies to near mmW base stations. The millimeter wavelength RF (wideband signal which transmits via High Frequency interface) channel has extremely high path loss and a short range. In order to build a useful communication network in the millimeter wavelength spectrum, a beamforming technique may be used to compensate for the extreme high path loss. The beamforming technique focuses the RF energy into a narrow direction to allow the RF beam to propagate farther in that direction. Using the beamforming technique, non-line of sight (NLOS) RF communication in the millimeter wavelength spectrum may rely on reflection and/or diffraction of the beams to reach the UE. Paragraph [0055] ………. The UE 702 may also obtain configuration information associated with mmW base stations in the vicinity of the UE. The configuration information (also referred to herein as millimeter wavelength (wideband signal) access network configuration information) may include positions of the mmW base stations……. The eNB 714 may receive 712 the beamforming type and configuration information associated with the mmW base station 704 from the mmW base station 704. The eNB 714 may transmit the received information with its timing information to the UE 702 in the signal 716. Accordingly, the signal 716 may include information indicating the beamforming type of the mmW base station 704. The beamforming type may indicate whether the mmW base station 704 is equipped to perform digital beamforming or analog beamforming….. The UE 702 may receive the beamforming type, the timing information, the configuration information, and/or additional information in the signal 716 from the eNB 714. Based on the received information in the signal 716, the UE 702 performs an initialization process (transmission beam) with the mmW base station 704). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Rye’s teaching about wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface with Miao’s in order to optimize overall network performance so that information can readily be extracted from the modular carrier wave. Regarding claims 6 and 21, the combination of Miao and Ryo teach all the claimed elements in claim 1. In addition, Ryo teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein each transmission beam beamforming configuration, of the plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration, includes information that indicate one or more of a respective transmit (TX) beam or a respective antenna to be used for transmission of the wideband signal (Paragraph 0055…… The eNB 714 may receive 712 the beamforming type and configuration information associated with the mmW base station 704 from the mmW base station 704. The eNB 714 may transmit the received information with its timing information to the UE 702 in the signal 716. Accordingly, the signal 716 may include information indicating the beamforming type of the mmW base station 704. The beamforming type may indicate whether the mmW base station 704 is equipped to perform digital beamforming or analog beamforming. The signal 716 may further indicate additional details in association with digital beamforming capabilities at the mmW base station 704. The UE 702 may receive the beamforming type, the timing information, the configuration information, and/or additional information in the signal 716 from the eNB 714. Based on the received information in the signal 716, the UE 702 performs an initialization process with the mmW base station 704). Regarding claims 8 and 23, the combination of Miao and Ryo teach all the claimed elements in claim 1. In addition, Miao teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration includes information that identifies time-domain resources on which the wideband signal is to be transmitted (Paragraph 0046, ….. the eNB 104 may transmit a discovery signal message to the RN-5 128. The discovery signal message may include configuration information of mmWave (wideband signal) discovery signals that may be transmitted by other relay nodes in the coverage area 108. The eNB 104 may have knowledge of the discovery signal configurations of the other relay nodes in coverage area 108 due to respective PCell connections with each of the other relay nodes. The configuration information may include, for example, the starting time position of each discovery cluster, a number of discovery occasions in each discovery cluster, and a periodicity of the discovery cluster for mmWave discovery signals transmitted by each of the other relay nodes in the coverage area 108). Regarding claims 9 and 24, the combination of Miao and Ryo teach all the claimed elements in claim 1. In addition, Miao teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on a periodic basis (Paragraph [0091]…. an eNB to: establish a primary cell (PCell) in a mobile broadband spectrum to communicate with a first relay node; transmit, via the PCell, a discovery signal message that includes configuration information of millimeter wave (mmWave) discovery signals that are to be transmitted by one or more additional relay nodes and a request for measurement information corresponding to the mmWave discovery signals. Paragraph 0036, ….as shown in FIG. 2, each of these discovery signals may include a discovery cluster transmitted periodically with the same period of ND frames, for example, 80 ms, 160 ms, or longer). Regarding claim 16, Miao teaches a method of wireless communication performed at an apparatus, comprising: receiving a configuration associated with transmission of a wideband signal on an interface of the apparatus (Paragraph 0003…. mmWave (wideband signal) communications occur in an extremely high-frequency (EHF) band that includes frequencies from 30 to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Paragraph 0019….. The eNB 104 and the relay nodes may be equipped with mmWave radio access technology (RAT) interfaces (high frequency interface) to communicate over mmWave communication links Paragraph 0046….the eNB 104 may transmit a discovery signal message to the RN-5 128. The discovery signal message may include configuration information of mmWave (wide band) discovery signals that may be transmitted by other relay nodes in the coverage area 108. The eNB 104 may have knowledge of the discovery signal configurations of the other relay nodes in coverage area 108 due to respective PCell connections with each of the other relay nodes); and transmitting, based at least in part on the configuration, the wideband signal on the HF interface (Paragraphs [0028-0030, 0059-0062], especially [0030], ….. Upon receiving the configuration message, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit one or more discovery signals based on the discovery signal configuration information. Paragraphs [0061-0062], …… At 412, the RN-5 128 may transmit a discovery signal confirmation response to the eNB 104. The discovery signal confirmation response may indicate that the RN-5 128 had successfully received the configuration information transmitted at 408. At 416, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit the discovery signal), but does not specifically teach the configuration including information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface. However, in related art, Ryu teaches the configuration including information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface (Paragraphs [0053-0055], especially paragraph [0053]…… while the disclosure herein refers to mmW base stations, it should be understood that the disclosure also applies to near mmW base stations. The millimeter wavelength RF (wideband signal which transmits via High Frequency interface) channel has extremely high path loss and a short range. In order to build a useful communication network in the millimeter wavelength spectrum, a beamforming technique may be used to compensate for the extreme high path loss. The beamforming technique focuses the RF energy into a narrow direction to allow the RF beam to propagate farther in that direction. Using the beamforming technique, non-line of sight (NLOS) RF communication in the millimeter wavelength spectrum may rely on reflection and/or diffraction of the beams to reach the UE. Paragraph [0055] ………. The UE 702 may also obtain configuration information associated with mmW base stations in the vicinity of the UE. The configuration information (also referred to herein as millimeter wavelength (wideband signal) access network configuration information) may include positions of the mmW base stations……. The eNB 714 may receive 712 the beamforming type and configuration information associated with the mmW base station 704 from the mmW base station 704. The eNB 714 may transmit the received information with its timing information to the UE 702 in the signal 716. Accordingly, the signal 716 may include information indicating the beamforming type of the mmW base station 704. The beamforming type may indicate whether the mmW base station 704 is equipped to perform digital beamforming or analog beamforming….. The UE 702 may receive the beamforming type, the timing information, the configuration information, and/or additional information in the signal 716 from the eNB 714. Based on the received information in the signal 716, the UE 702 performs an initialization process (transmission beam) with the mmW base station 704). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Rye’s teaching about the configuration including information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface with Miao’s in order to optimize overall network performance so that information can readily be extracted from the modular carrier wave. Regarding claim 29, Miao teaches a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a set of instructions for wireless communication, the set of instructions comprising: one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an apparatus, cause the apparatus to: receive a configuration associated with transmission of a wideband signal on an interface of the apparatus (Paragraph 0003…. mmWave (wideband signal) communications occur in an extremely high-frequency (EHF) band that includes frequencies from 30 to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Paragraph 0019….. The eNB 104 and the relay nodes may be equipped with mmWave radio access technology (RAT) interfaces (high frequency interface) to communicate over mmWave communication links. Paragraph 0046….the eNB 104 may transmit a discovery signal message to the RN-5 128. The discovery signal message may include configuration information of mmWave (wide band) discovery signals that may be transmitted by other relay nodes in the coverage area 108. The eNB 104 may have knowledge of the discovery signal configurations of the other relay nodes in coverage area 108 due to respective PCell connections with each of the other relay nodes); and transmit, based at least in part on the configuration, the wideband signal on the HF interface (Paragraphs [0028-0030, 0059-0062], especially [0030], ….. Upon receiving the configuration message, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit one or more discovery signals based on the discovery signal configuration information. Paragraphs [0061-0062], …… At 412, the RN-5 128 may transmit a discovery signal confirmation response to the eNB 104. The discovery signal confirmation response may indicate that the RN-5 128 had successfully received the configuration information transmitted at 408. At 416, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit the discovery signal), but does not specifically teach wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration of the wideband signal via the HF interface. However, in related art, Ryu teaches wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration of the wideband signal via the HF interface (Paragraphs [0053-0055], especially paragraph [0053]…… while the disclosure herein refers to mmW base stations, it should be understood that the disclosure also applies to near mmW base stations. The millimeter wavelength RF (wideband signal which transmits via High Frequency interface) channel has extremely high path loss and a short range. In order to build a useful communication network in the millimeter wavelength spectrum, a beamforming technique may be used to compensate for the extreme high path loss. The beamforming technique focuses the RF energy into a narrow direction to allow the RF beam to propagate farther in that direction. Using the beamforming technique, non-line of sight (NLOS) RF communication in the millimeter wavelength spectrum may rely on reflection and/or diffraction of the beams to reach the UE. Paragraph [0055] ………. The UE 702 may also obtain configuration information associated with mmW base stations in the vicinity of the UE. The configuration information (also referred to herein as millimeter wavelength (wideband signal) access network configuration information) may include positions of the mmW base stations……. The eNB 714 may receive 712 the beamforming type and configuration information associated with the mmW base station 704 from the mmW base station 704. The eNB 714 may transmit the received information with its timing information to the UE 702 in the signal 716. Accordingly, the signal 716 may include information indicating the beamforming type of the mmW base station 704. The beamforming type may indicate whether the mmW base station 704 is equipped to perform digital beamforming or analog beamforming….. The UE 702 may receive the beamforming type, the timing information, the configuration information, and/or additional information in the signal 716 from the eNB 714. Based on the received information in the signal 716, the UE 702 performs an initialization process (transmission beam) with the mmW base station 704). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Rye’s teaching about wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration of the wideband signal via the HF interface with Miao’s in order to optimize overall network performance so that information can readily be extracted from the modular carrier wave. Regarding claim 30, Miao teaches an apparatus for wireless communication, comprising: means for receiving a configuration associated with transmission of a wideband signal on an interface of the apparatus (Paragraph 0003…. mmWave (wideband signal) communications occur in an extremely high-frequency (EHF) band that includes frequencies from 30 to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Paragraph 0019….. The eNB 104 and the relay nodes may be equipped with mmWave radio access technology (RAT) interfaces (high frequency interface) to communicate over mmWave communication links. Paragraph 0046….the eNB 104 may transmit a discovery signal message to the RN-5 128. The discovery signal message may include configuration information of mmWave (wide band) discovery signals that may be transmitted by other relay nodes in the coverage area 108. The eNB 104 may have knowledge of the discovery signal configurations of the other relay nodes in coverage area 108 due to respective PCell connections with each of the other relay nodes); and means for transmitting, based at least in part on the configuration, the wideband signal on the HF interface (Paragraphs [0028-0030, 0059-0062], especially [0030], ….. Upon receiving the configuration message, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit one or more discovery signals based on the discovery signal configuration information. Paragraphs [0061-0062], …… At 412, the RN-5 128 may transmit a discovery signal confirmation response to the eNB 104. The discovery signal confirmation response may indicate that the RN-5 128 had successfully received the configuration information transmitted at 408. At 416, the RN-5 128 may start to transmit the discovery signal), but does not specifically teach wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface. However, in related art, Ryu teaches wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface (Paragraphs [0053-0055], especially paragraph [0053]…… while the disclosure herein refers to mmW base stations, it should be understood that the disclosure also applies to near mmW base stations. The millimeter wavelength RF (wideband signal which transmits via High Frequency interface) channel has extremely high path loss and a short range. In order to build a useful communication network in the millimeter wavelength spectrum, a beamforming technique may be used to compensate for the extreme high path loss. The beamforming technique focuses the RF energy into a narrow direction to allow the RF beam to propagate farther in that direction. Using the beamforming technique, non-line of sight (NLOS) RF communication in the millimeter wavelength spectrum may rely on reflection and/or diffraction of the beams to reach the UE. Paragraph [0055] ………. The UE 702 may also obtain configuration information associated with mmW base stations in the vicinity of the UE. The configuration information (also referred to herein as millimeter wavelength (wideband signal) access network configuration information) may include positions of the mmW base stations……. The eNB 714 may receive 712 the beamforming type and configuration information associated with the mmW base station 704 from the mmW base station 704. The eNB 714 may transmit the received information with its timing information to the UE 702 in the signal 716. Accordingly, the signal 716 may include information indicating the beamforming type of the mmW base station 704. The beamforming type may indicate whether the mmW base station 704 is equipped to perform digital beamforming or analog beamforming….. The UE 702 may receive the beamforming type, the timing information, the configuration information, and/or additional information in the signal 716 from the eNB 714. Based on the received information in the signal 716, the UE 702 performs an initialization process (transmission beam) with the mmW base station 704). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Rye’s teaching about wherein the configuration includes information that identifies a plurality of transmission beam beamforming configuration associated with transmission of the wideband signal via the HF interface with Miao’s in order to optimize overall network performance so that information can readily be extracted from the modular carrier wave. Claims 2, 4, 17, and 19, are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Stephenne et al. (US 2016/0353271). Regarding claims 2 and 17, the combination of Miao and Rye fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the HF interface is a millimeter wave (mmW) interface. However, in related art, Stephenne teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the HF interface is a millimeter wave (mmW) interface (Paragraph 0039; claims 9 and 18).Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Stephenne’s teaching about wherein the HF interface is a millimeter wave (mmW) interface with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to transmit a huge data in faster rate. Regarding claims 4 and 19, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein, to receive the configuration, the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to: receive the configuration from a network entity via one or more low frequency (LF) interfaces of one or more of the network entity or the apparatus. However, in related art, Stephenne teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein, to identify the configuration, the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to: receive the configuration from a network entity via one or more low frequency (LF) interfaces of one or more of the network entity or the apparatus (Paragraphs 0004, 0031, 0040; claims 10 and 13). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Stephenne’s teaching about wherein, to identify the configuration, the one or more processors are configured to cause the apparatus to: receive the configuration from a network entity via one or more low frequency (LF) interfaces of one or more of the network entity or the apparatus with Miao’s and Ryo’s so that more efficient and highly reliable communication can be realized. Claims 3 and 18 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Huang et al. (US 2020/0145094). Regarding claims 3 and 18, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a millimeter wave (mmW) repeater. However, in related art, Huang teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a millimeter wave (mmW) repeater (Paragraphs 0037-0080). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Huang’s teaching about wherein the apparatus is a millimeter wave (mmW) repeater with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to transmit data in faster rate. Claims 7 and 22 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Gallhauser et al. (US 2019/0391194). Regarding claims 7 and 22, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration includes information associated with a transmit (TX) beam power setting associated with a transmission of the wideband signal. However, in related art, Gallhauser teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration includes information associated with a transmit (TX) beam power setting associated with a transmission of the wideband signal (Paragraph 0053). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Gallhauser’s teaching about wherein the configuration includes information associated with a transmit (TX) beam power setting associated with a transmission of the wideband signal with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to increase link robustness and/or achieve high throughput. Claims 10 and 25 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Wisherd et al. (US 2015/0097716). Regarding claims 10 and 25, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on a semi-persistent basis. However, in related art, Wisherd teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on a semi-persistent basis (Claim 24….wherein the one or more wideband RF signal is transmitted using continuous (semi-persistent basis) wideband RF signaling). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Wisherd’s teaching about wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on a semi-persistent basis with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to maximize efficiency of a limited radio resource in a mobile communication system, methods for more effectively transmitting data in time, space, and frequency domains. Claims 11 and 26 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627) in view of Wisherd et al. (US 2015/0097716), and further in view of Tsai et al. (US 2019/0090227). Regarding claims 11 and 26, the combination of Miao, Ryo, and Wisherd teach all the claimed elements in claim 10. In addition, Wisherd teaches the apparatus of claim 10, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on the semi-persistent basis (Claim 24….wherein the one or more wideband RF signal is transmitted using continuous (semi-persistent basis) wideband RF signaling), but does not teach ……in a configured set of time-domain resources. However, in related art, Tsai teaches …….in a configured set of time-domain resources (Paragraphs 0207-0214). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Tsai’s teaching about in a configured set of time-domain resources with Miao’s, Ryo’s, and Wisherd’s invention in order to effectively utilize the resource assignment. Claims 12, 14, and 27 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Mollenkopt et al. (US Patent #6,252,915). Regarding claims 12 and 27, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal based on an occurrence of an event. However, in related art, Mollenkopf teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal based on an occurrence of an event (Col 10, lines 1-7…..The gain adjustment performed by transmit power tracking loop 216 is based on the gain calculated from the sum of the estimated powers of the narrowband channels and a measurement of the power (occurrence of an event) of the wideband signal immediately prior to transmission via antenna 112). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Mollenkopf’s teaching about wherein the configuration indicates that the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal based on an occurrence of an event with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to maintain a desired power level. Regarding claim 14, the combination of Miao, Ryo, and Mollenkopt teach all the claimed elements in claim 12. In addition, Mollenkopt teaches the apparatus of claim 12, wherein the event is one of: a received power measurement by the apparatus satisfies a threshold, or an expiration of a timer (Col 10, lines 1-7). Claims 13 and 28 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461 in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627) in view of Mollenkopt et al. (US Patent #6,252,915) in view of Wisherd et al. (US 2015/0097716), and further in view of Tsai et al. (US 2019/0090227). Regarding claims 13 and 28, the combination of Miao, Ryo, and Mollenkopt fail to teach the apparatus of claim 12, wherein the configuration further indicates that, upon the occurrence of the event, the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal on a configured set of time-domain resources. However, in related art, Wisherd teaches the apparatus of claim 12, wherein the configuration further indicates that, upon the occurrence of the event, the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal (Claim 24….wherein the one or more wideband RF signal is transmitted using continuous (semi-persistent basis) wideband RF signaling). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Wisherd’s teaching about wherein the configuration further indicates that, upon the occurrence of the event, the apparatus is to transmit the wideband signal with Miao’s, Ryo’s, and Mollenkopt’s invention in order to maximize efficiency of a limited radio resource in a mobile communication system, methods for more effectively transmitting data in time, space, and frequency domains. The combination of Miao, Ryo, Mollenkopt, and Wisherd fail to teach the underlying part of transmit the wideband signal on a configured set of time-domain resources. However, in related art, Tsai teaches the underlying part of transmit the wideband signal on a configured set of time-domain resources (Paragraphs 0207-0214). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Tsai’s teaching about transmit the wideband signal on a configured set of time-domain resources with Miao’s, Ryo’s, Mollenkopt’s, and Wisherd’s invention in order to effectively utilize the resource assignment. Claim 15 is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Dahlman et al. (US 2011/0176480). Regarding claim 15, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: generate the wideband signal based at least in part on the configuration. However, in related art, Dahlman teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: generate the wideband signal based at least in part on the configuration (Claims 26, 32, 39, and 45). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Dahlman’s teaching about wherein the one or more processors are further configured to cause the apparatus to: generate the wideband signal based at least in part on the configuration with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to achieve a high data transfer rate. Claims 31 and 32 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Miao et al. (US 2018/0249461) in view of Ryu et al. (US 2015/0373627), and further in view of Islam et al. (US 2019/0199405). Regarding claims 31 and 32, the combination of Miao and Ryo fail to teach the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration includes information that indicates whether the wideband signal is to be swept in accordance with the plurality of transmission beam beamforming configurations. However, in related art, Islam teaches the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the beamforming configuration includes information that indicates whether the wideband signal is to be swept (See abstract; Paragraphs 0012-0013, 0035; claims 1, 7, and 13). Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, at the time the invention was made to use (pre-AIA ) or before the effective filing date of the claimed invention (AIA ) to use Islam’s teaching about wherein the beamforming configuration includes information that indicates whether the wideband signal is to be swept with Miao’s and Ryo’s invention in order to have higher directive gains over single antenna or diversity antenna configurations. Response to Arguments Applicant’s arguments with respect to claims 1-4, 6-19, and 21-32 have been considered but are moot because the new ground of rejection does not rely on any reference applied in the prior rejection of record for any teaching or matter specifically challenged in the argument. Conclusion The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure. Akkarakaran et al. (US 2017/0359114). Any inquiry concerning this communication or earlier communications from the examiner should be directed to DOMINIC E REGO whose telephone number is (571)272-8132. The examiner can normally be reached Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm. 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, Wesley Kim can be reached at 571-272-7867. The fax phone number for the organization where this application or proceeding is assigned is 571-273-8300. Information regarding the status of published or unpublished applications may be obtained from Patent Center. Unpublished application information in Patent Center is available to registered users. To file and manage patent submissions in Patent Center, visit: https://patentcenter.uspto.gov. Visit https://www.uspto.gov/patents/apply/patent-center for more information about Patent Center and https://www.uspto.gov/patents/docx for information about filing in DOCX format. For additional questions, contact the Electronic Business Center (EBC) at 866-217-9197 (toll-free). If you would like assistance from a USPTO Customer Service Representative, call 800-786-9199 (IN USA OR CANADA) or 571-272-1000. /DOMINIC E REGO/Primary Examiner, Art Unit 2648 Tel 571-272-8132
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Prosecution Timeline

Nov 13, 2023
Application Filed
Jun 29, 2024
Non-Final Rejection — §103
Aug 27, 2024
Interview Requested
Sep 12, 2024
Applicant Interview (Telephonic)
Sep 12, 2024
Examiner Interview Summary
Sep 30, 2024
Response Filed
Jan 10, 2025
Final Rejection — §103
Feb 17, 2025
Interview Requested
Feb 27, 2025
Examiner Interview Summary
Feb 27, 2025
Applicant Interview (Telephonic)
Mar 11, 2025
Response after Non-Final Action
Mar 24, 2025
Request for Continued Examination
Mar 25, 2025
Response after Non-Final Action
Mar 31, 2025
Non-Final Rejection — §103
May 20, 2025
Interview Requested
Jun 02, 2025
Applicant Interview (Telephonic)
Jun 02, 2025
Examiner Interview Summary
Jul 01, 2025
Response Filed
Sep 30, 2025
Final Rejection — §103
Dec 01, 2025
Response after Non-Final Action
Dec 11, 2025
Request for Continued Examination
Jan 12, 2026
Response after Non-Final Action
Jan 23, 2026
Non-Final Rejection — §103
Mar 31, 2026
Interview Requested
Apr 09, 2026
Applicant Interview (Telephonic)
Apr 09, 2026
Examiner Interview Summary

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

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Prosecution Projections

5-6
Expected OA Rounds
87%
Grant Probability
94%
With Interview (+7.1%)
2y 4m
Median Time to Grant
High
PTA Risk
Based on 902 resolved cases by this examiner. Grant probability derived from career allow rate.

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