Wireless communication system, base station, and program

Abstract

To realize a wireless communication system capable of allocating communication resources to a plurality of terminal devices that have different requirements, without latency.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment, a wireless communication system includes a base station, a first allocation determination device, and a second allocation determination device. The base station is capable of wirelessly communicating with a plurality of terminal devices each having either a first characteristic or a second characteristic. The first allocation determination device is configured to determine allocation of communication resources to at least one of the plurality of terminal devices. The second allocation determination device is configured to determine allocation of communication resources to at least another one of the plurality of terminal devices. The base station is configured to determine, based on a slot length, a first execution period for determining allocation of communication resources to a first group to which one or more terminal devices each having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution period for determining allocation of communication resources to a second group to which one or more terminal devices each having the second characteristic belong.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD An embodiment of the present invention relates to a wireless communication system, a base station, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP (registered trademark)) is currently studying the fifth generation mobile communication system (5G mobile communication system). The 5G mobile communication system is based on the premise that everything will be connected to the network. The 5G mobile communication system is also required to satisfy a wide range of requirements related to wireless communication. The requirements related to wireless communication include, for example, requirements related to speed, capacity, reliability, and delay.

[0003] A 5G mobile communication system includes a base station and a terminal device. The base station determines which resources (communication resources) related to wireless communication are to be allocated to which terminal device. The terminal device performs wireless communication with the base station using the allocated communication resources.

[0004] A 5G mobile communication system may include various types of terminal devices with different wireless communication requirements. For example, some terminal devices require high-capacity wireless communication, while other terminal devices require low-latency wireless communication. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6976920 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a wireless communication system, a base station, and a program that can allocate communication resources to a plurality of terminal devices with different requirements without delay. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment, a wireless communication system includes a base station, a first allocation determination device, and a second allocation determination device. The base station is capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices, each having either a first feature or a second feature. The first allocation determination device determines an allocation of communication resources for at least one of the plurality of terminal devices. The second allocation determination device determines an allocation of communication resources for at least another one of the plurality of terminal devices. The base station determines, based on a slot length, a first execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first feature belong, and a second execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second feature belong. The first allocation determination device notifies the base station of first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy within the first execution time. After the first allocation information is notified to the base station, the second allocation determination device notifies the base station of second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information within the second execution time. The base station allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a control device in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a frame structure of a modulated signal used in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between subcarrier spacing, slots, resource elements, and resource blocks used in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first example of allocation of resource blocks used in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second example of resource block allocation used in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third example of resource block arrangement used in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of allocation of resource blocks by mini-slots used in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device, a first allocation determination device, and a second allocation determination device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of timing relating to allocation of communication resources in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] 4 is a diagram showing an example of setting a first time and a second time in the wireless communication system according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of communication block allocation determined by a first allocation determination device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of communication block allocation determined by a second allocation determination device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of allocation control processing executed by a control device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 15]10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a first allocation determination process executed in a first allocation determination device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a second allocation determination process executed in a first allocation determination device in the wireless communication system of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0010] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system 1 according to an embodiment. The wireless communication system 1 is, for example, a wireless communication system that complies with the fifth generation mobile communication system (5G system) standardized by 3GPP.

[0011] The radio signals used in the 5G system are modulated by the Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) system, and are modulated signals that employ the mixed-numerology system. The OFDM system is a modulation system that enables parallel transmission of data using multiple orthogonal carrier waves. Each of the multiple carrier waves is called a subcarrier. Modulated signals that employ the mixed-numerology system are signals that allow for changeable subcarrier spacing. The subcarrier spacing is the spacing between adjacent subcarriers (i.e., the spacing in the frequency direction).

[0012] 5G also uses massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) to transmit modulated signals over radio waves. Massive MIMO is a technology that uses multiple antennas for both transmission and reception.

[0013] The wireless communication system 1 includes, for example, a core network 2, a base station 3, a plurality of terminal devices 4, a first allocation determination device 5, and a second allocation determination device 6.

[0014] The core network 2 is a backbone communication network in the 5G system. A plurality of base stations including the base station 3 may be connected to the core network 2. The core network 2 relays transmission of data (e.g., packets) between the connected base station 3 and another base station 3. Another network may be connected to the core network 2. In this case, the core network 2 relays transmission of data between the base station 3 and the other network.

[0015] The base station 3 is, for example, a wireless communication device conforming to the 5G system. The base station 3 is connected to the core network 2. The base station 3 is capable of wireless communication with each of a plurality of terminal devices 4. More specifically, the base station 3 is capable of transmitting modulated signals defined in the 5G system to each of the plurality of terminal devices 4. The base station 3 is capable of receiving modulated signals defined in the 5G system from each of the plurality of terminal devices 4. Therefore, the base station 3 can relay data transmission between the core network 2 and each of the plurality of terminal devices 4.

[0016] Each of the multiple terminal devices 4 is, for example, a wireless communication device conforming to the 5G system. The multiple terminal devices 4 are, for example, N terminal devices 4-1, 4-2, ..., and 4-N, where N is an integer equal to or greater than 1. Hereinafter, an unspecified one of the multiple terminal devices 4 may be referred to as a terminal device 4.

[0017] The terminal device 4 is owned by a user. The terminal device 4 is assigned identification information (for example, a number) that can uniquely identify the terminal device 4. The terminal device 4 can be carried by the user. The terminal device 4 may be fixed to a specific location. The terminal device 4 is capable of wireless communication with the base station 3. More specifically, the terminal device 4 is capable of transmitting a modulated signal defined by the 5G system to the base station 3. The terminal device 4 is capable of receiving a modulated signal defined by the 5G system from the base station 3.

[0018] The multiple terminal devices 4 may have different characteristics related to wireless communication. The characteristics related to wireless communication are, for example, requirements related to wireless communication. The requirements related to wireless communication are, for example, requirements related to speed, capacity, reliability, and delay. Specifically, the multiple terminal devices 4 include, for example, an enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) terminal device, an Ultra-Reliable and Low Latency Communications (URLLC) terminal device, and a massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) terminal device. The eMBB terminal device 4 requires high-speed, large-capacity wireless communication. The URLLC terminal device 4 requires ultra-reliable, low-latency wireless communication. The mMTC terminal device 4 requires wireless communication with multiple terminals connected simultaneously.

[0019] The first allocation determination device 5 is, for example, an information processing device. The first allocation determination device 5 is connected to the base station 3 via, for example, a network or a cable. The first allocation determination device 5 may be built into the base station 3. The first allocation determination device 5 determines the allocation of communication resources to at least one of a plurality of terminal devices 4. More specifically, in response to a request (first allocation request) from the base station 3, the first allocation determination device 5 determines communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices 4 that belong to a first group and to which communication resources should be allocated at a certain time. The terminal devices 4 that belong to the first group are, for example, URLLC terminal devices 4. The first allocation determination device 5 transmits information (first allocation information) indicating the allocated communication resources to the base station 3. The first allocation determination device 5 may further transmit the first allocation information to the second allocation determination device 6. In this case, the first allocation determination device 5 is connected to the second allocation determination device 6 via, for example, a network or a cable.

[0020] The second allocation determination device 6 is, for example, an information processing device. The second allocation determination device 6 is connected to the base station 3 via, for example, a network or a cable. The second allocation determination device 6 may be built into the base station 3. The second allocation determination device 6 determines the allocation of communication resources to at least one terminal device 4 among the multiple terminal devices 4, other than the terminal device 4 to which the allocation of communication resources has been determined by the first allocation determination device 5. More specifically, in response to a request (second allocation request) from the base station 3, the second allocation determination device 6 determines communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices 4 that belong to a second group and to which communication resources should be allocated at a certain time. The terminal devices 4 that belong to the second group are, for example, eMBB terminal devices 4. The second allocation determination device 6 uses first allocation information acquired by the first allocation determination device 5 to determine the allocation of communication resources. The first allocation information is, for example, included in the second allocation request. The first allocation information may be received from the first allocation determination device 5. The second allocation determination device 6 transmits to the base station 3 information indicating the allocated communication resources (second allocation information).

[0021] The first allocation determination device 5 and the second allocation determination device 6 determine the allocation of communication resources to two groups of terminal devices 4 having different requirements regarding wireless communication. This makes it possible to determine the allocation of communication resources that meets the requirements while reducing the amount of calculation.

[0022] The wireless communication system 1 may further include another allocation determination device having a configuration similar to the first allocation determination device 5 or the second allocation determination device 6. This other allocation determination device determines communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices 4 that belong to a third group and to which communication resources should be allocated at a certain time. The terminal devices 4 that belong to the third group are, for example, mMTC terminal devices 4.

[0023] In the following, a case will be mainly illustrated in which each of the multiple terminal devices 4 is either a URLLC or eMBB terminal device, and the wireless communication system 1 includes a first allocation determination device 5 and a second allocation determination device 6. In this case, the first group is a URLLC group, and the second group is an eMBB group.

[0024] Here, the internal configuration of the base station 3 will be described.

[0025] The base station 3 includes a communication device 31 and a control device 32 .

[0026] The communication device 31 is a device capable of communicating with the outside of the base station 3. The communication device 31 is capable of communicating with, for example, each of a plurality of terminal devices 4. The communication device 31 is also capable of communicating with the core network 2. The communication device 31 includes a circuit for transmitting a signal to the outside and receiving a signal from the outside. The signal is, for example, a modulated signal of the 5G system. The circuit includes, for example, a modulation circuit, a demodulation circuit, an antenna, etc.

[0027] The control device 32 is, for example, an information processing device. The control device 32 controls wireless communication between each of the multiple terminal devices 4 and the communication device 31. More specifically, the control device 32 executes an allocation control process that controls the allocation of communication resources used for wireless communication. The allocation control process is a process for selecting one or more terminal devices 4 to which communication resources should be allocated at a certain time from the multiple terminal devices 4, and allocating the communication resources to each of the selected one or more terminal devices 4. Hereinafter, the selected terminal device 4 will also be referred to as a target device 4.

[0028] More specifically, the control device 32 selects, from a plurality of terminal devices 4, one or more terminal devices 4 (one or more target devices 4) to which communication resources should be allocated at a certain time. The control device 32 classifies the one or more target devices 4 into a first group and a second group. The control device 32 requests the first allocation determination device 5 to determine communication resources to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the first group (first allocation request). The control device 32 receives first allocation information generated in response to the first allocation request from the first allocation determination device 5. After receiving the first allocation information, the control device 32 requests the second allocation determination device 6 to determine communication resources to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the second group (second allocation request). The control device 32 receives second allocation information generated in response to the second allocation request from the second allocation determination device 6.

[0029] The control device 32 then executes allocation processing based on the first allocation information and the second allocation information. Specifically, the control device 32 allocates communication resources indicated by the first allocation information to each target device 4 belonging to the first group. The control device 32 allocates communication resources indicated by the second allocation information to each target device 4 belonging to the second group. Information indicating the allocated communication resources is notified to each target device 4 via the communication device 31.

[0030] Each target device 4 can use the allocated communication resources to perform data transmission with the communication device 31. This data transmission may include data transmission from the target device 4 to the communication device 31 (base station 3) and data transmission from the communication device 31 to the target device 4.

[0031] In this way, the control device 32 can control the allocation of communication resources used for wireless communication between each of the multiple terminal devices 4 and the communication device 31.

[0032] Next, the hardware configuration of the control device 32 will be described.

[0033] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the control device 32. The control device 32 includes, for example, a CPU 71, a random access memory (RAM) 72, a BIOS-ROM 73, a nonvolatile memory 74, a communication interface (communication I / F) 75, and a timer 76. The CPU 71, RAM 72, BIOS-ROM 73, nonvolatile memory 74, communication I / F 75, and timer 76 are connected via, for example, a bus 70.

[0034] The CPU 71 is, for example, at least one processor. The CPU 71 controls the operations of various components within the control device 32. The CPU 71 executes various programs loaded into the RAM 72 from a non-volatile memory 74, which is a storage device. These programs include, for example, an operating system (OS), drivers, and various application programs.

[0035] The CPU 101 also executes the basic input / output system (BIOS) stored in the BIOS-ROM 73. The BIOS is a program for controlling hardware.

[0036] The RAM 72 is a volatile memory. The RAM 72 is realized as, for example, a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or a static random access memory (SRAM). The storage area of the RAM 72 is allocated as, for example, a storage area for programs.

[0037] The communication I / F 75 functions as a control circuit that controls communication between the control device 32 and the outside world. The communication I / F 75 includes a transmitting unit that transmits a signal and a receiving unit that receives a signal.

[0038] The timer 76 measures time and can provide the measured time to each section in the control device 32.

[0039] Each of the first allocation determination device 5 and the second allocation determination device 6 has, for example, the same hardware configuration as the control device 32. Alternatively, the control device 32 may further have the functions of each of the first allocation determination device 5 and the second allocation determination device 6.

[0040] The functions of the control device 32 may be realized by dedicated hardware within the control device 32, or may be realized by the CPU 71 executing a program.

[0041] Next, the frame structure of a modulated signal in the 5G system will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the frame structure of a modulated signal.

[0042] In the 5G system, the time length of a frame is predetermined. A frame is a data signal having a length corresponding to the predetermined time length. The time length of a frame corresponds to, for example, the operating cycle of encoding / decoding a modulated signal. The time length of one frame is 10 milliseconds (msec). One frame includes 10 subframes.

[0043] The time length of a subframe is predetermined in the 5G system. The time length of one subframe is 1 millisecond. One subframe includes one or more slots.

[0044] A slot is a unit of scheduling for data transmission. A slot consists of, for example, 14 OFDM symbols, regardless of the subcarrier spacing. The time length of an OFDM symbol varies depending on the subcarrier spacing. Therefore, the time length of a slot (slot length) varies depending on the subcarrier spacing. The subcarrier spacing is determined, for example, by the base station 3 (more specifically, the control device 32). Therefore, the time length of an OFDM symbol and the slot length are determined by the base station 3.

[0045] The 5G system defines five subcarrier spacings: 15 kHz (μ=0), 30 kHz (μ=1), 60 kHz (μ=2), 120 kHz (μ=3), and 240 kHz (μ=4). μ is a value that identifies the subcarrier spacing.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, when the subcarrier spacing is 15 kHz, one subframe contains one slot. When the subcarrier spacing is 30 kHz, one subframe contains two slots. When the subcarrier spacing is 60 kHz, one subframe contains four slots. When the subcarrier spacing is 120 kHz, one subframe contains eight slots. When the subcarrier spacing is 240 kHz, one subframe contains 16 slots.

[0047] The smaller the subcarrier spacing, the longer the slot length. In other words, the larger the subcarrier spacing, the shorter the slot length. Specifically, for example, if the subcarrier spacing is 15 kHz, the slot length is 1 millisecond. If the subcarrier spacing is 30 kHz, the slot length is 0.5 milliseconds. If the subcarrier spacing is 60 kHz, the slot length is 0.25 milliseconds. If the subcarrier spacing is 120 kHz, the slot length is 0.125 milliseconds. If the subcarrier spacing is 240 kHz, the slot length is 0.0625 milliseconds.

[0048] When the subcarrier spacing is small and the slot length is long (for example, when the subcarrier spacing is 15 kHz and the slot length is 1 ms), the system is resistant to multipath but has a long delay time. On the other hand, when the subcarrier spacing is large and the slot length is short (for example, when the subcarrier spacing is 240 kHz and the slot length is 0.0625 ms), the system has a short delay time but is susceptible to the effects of ISI (inter-symbol interference).

[0049] Therefore, for example, a terminal device 4 that moves at a low speed and transmits data with a long allowable delay time is preferably assigned to a communication block with a small subcarrier interval. Also, for example, a terminal device 4 that moves at a high speed and transmits data with a short allowable delay time is preferably assigned to a communication block with a large subcarrier interval.

[0050] A communication block is a unit of communication resources specified by its position in the frequency direction and its position in the time direction in a modulated signal. The modulated signal includes multiple communication blocks. A communication block is, for example, a resource element, a resource block, or a resource block group.

[0051] The following describes communication blocks allocated to terminal device 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between subcarrier spacing, slots, resource elements, and resource blocks. In each of Figs. 4 to 7, the vertical axis represents frequency and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0052] The 5G system defines a unit containing M OFDM symbols as a slot, where M is 14, for example.

[0053] In the 5G system, a resource element (RE) is a unit consisting of one subcarrier and one OFDM symbol. One resource element (RE) is specified by a subcarrier position indicating its position in the frequency direction in a modulated signal and a symbol position indicating its position in the time direction.

[0054] A resource block RB is a unit consisting of L subcarriers and one slot. L is, for example, 12. One resource block RB includes a plurality of resource elements RE. For example, if a resource block is composed of 12 subcarriers and one slot (i.e., 14 OFDM symbols), the resource block RB includes 168 (=12×14) resource elements RE. Note that the subcarrier spacing can be changed for each resource block RB.

[0055] A resource block group is a unit that bundles multiple resource blocks RB. For example, if a 100 MHz band is used as the modulation signal for 5G, one subframe contains 17 resource block groups.

[0056] Resource blocks will be further described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. In the examples shown in Figures 5 to 7, it is assumed that one subframe includes 16 resource blocks RB. In this case, the 16 resource blocks RB are composed of, for example, one slot (14 OFDM symbols) and 192 (=12×16) subcarriers.

[0057] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a first example of resource block allocation in the time-frequency domain corresponding to a modulated signal of the 5G system. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the entire band is allocated to the largest subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz (μ=0). 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 correspond to the same slot. That is, the positions of the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 in the time direction are the same. Furthermore, the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 correspond to 16 consecutive frequency bands, respectively. That is, the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 are arranged adjacently in the frequency direction. A terminal device 4 to which such resource blocks RB#1 to #16 are allocated can perform data transmission with a long allowable delay time and resistance to multipath interference.

[0058] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a second example of resource block allocation in the time-frequency domain corresponding to a modulated signal of the 5G system. In the example shown in Fig. 6, the entire band is allocated to the smallest subcarrier spacing of 240 kHz (μ=4). 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 correspond to 16 consecutive slots, respectively. That is, the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 are arranged adjacently in the time direction. Furthermore, the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 correspond to the same frequency band. That is, the positions of the 16 resource blocks RB#1 to #16 in the frequency direction are the same. A terminal device 4 to which such resource blocks RB#1 to #16 are allocated can perform data transmission with a short allowable delay time.

[0059] Figure 7 is a diagram showing a third example of resource block allocation in the time-frequency domain corresponding to a modulated signal of the 5G system. In the example shown in Figure 7, the band is divided into two regions, one of which is allocated to the largest subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz (μ=0), and the other is allocated to the subcarrier spacing of 60 kHz (μ=2).

[0060] For example, resource blocks RB#1 to RB#3 are resource blocks with a subcarrier spacing of 15 kHz. Resource blocks RB#1 to RB#3 correspond to the same slot. Resource blocks RB#1 to RB#3 correspond to four consecutive frequency bands, respectively.

[0061] For example, resource blocks RB#13 to #16 are resource blocks with a subcarrier spacing of 60 kHz. Resource blocks RB#13 to #16 correspond to four consecutive slots, respectively. Resource blocks RB#13 to #16 correspond to the same frequency band.

[0062] When such resource blocks RB#1 to #16 are used, for example, at least one of resource blocks RB#1 to #3 is assigned to a terminal device 4 that has a long tolerable delay time and requires highly reliable data transmission. Also, one of resource blocks RB#13 to #16 is assigned to a terminal device 4 that has a short tolerable delay time and requires data transmission that tolerates low reliability. Therefore, data transmission can be performed with multiple terminal devices 4 with different requirements within one subframe.

[0063] In this way, the band of the modulated signal is divided into multiple regions, and different subcarrier spacing can be assigned to each of the multiple regions. This allows resource blocks with appropriate subcarrier spacing to be assigned to each terminal device 4 according to its requirements. Therefore, resource blocks can be assigned so that the different requirements of multiple terminal devices 4 are met.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of allocation of resource blocks by mini-slots.

[0065] In the 5G system, a unit consisting of η consecutive OFDM symbols and one subcarrier is defined as a minislot. For example, η is 2, 4, or 7. Alternatively, η may be any integer from 2 to 13.

[0066] In the example shown in Figure 8, minislot MS-2 is a minislot where η is 2. Minislot MS-4 is a minislot where η is 4. Minislot MS-7 is a minislot where η is 7.

[0067] The communication block may be a minislot, that is, η consecutive resource elements corresponding to one subcarrier within the resource block may be allocated to the terminal device 4.

[0068] For example, when terminal device 4 requests ultra-low latency data transmission, the subcarrier spacing of the resource block including the minislot allocated to terminal device 4 is set to the maximum of 240 kHz (μ=4), thereby enabling terminal device 4 to perform ultra-low latency data transmission.

[0069] 9 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the control device 32, first allocation determination device 5, and second allocation determination device 6 of the base station 3. The configuration of each of the control device 32, first allocation determination device 5, and second allocation determination device 6 will be described below.

[0070] (Control device 32) The control device 32 includes, for example, a terminal selection unit 321, a terminal classification unit 322, a resource determination unit 323, a reference information acquisition unit 324, an execution time determination unit 325, an allocation request unit 326, and an allocation processing unit 327. The terminal selection unit 321, the terminal classification unit 322, the resource determination unit 323, the reference information acquisition unit 324, the execution time determination unit 325, the allocation request unit 326, and the allocation processing unit 327 execute an allocation control process. The allocation control process is a process of acquiring first allocation information and second allocation information between a first time and a second time, and allocating communication blocks to the terminal device 4. The first time and the second time are times determined in advance by scheduling.

[0071] When the current time becomes the first time, the terminal selection unit 321 selects one or more terminal devices 4 (one or more target devices 4) to which communication resources should be allocated at the second time from the multiple terminal devices 4. Each of the one or more target devices 4 is, for example, a terminal device that is scheduled to transmit data with the base station 3 after the second time.

[0072] The one or more terminal devices 4 may be all or some of the multiple terminal devices 4. For example, if a maximum number of terminal devices 4 to which communication resources are allocated at one time is defined, the terminal selection unit 321 selects a number of terminal devices 4 equal to or less than the maximum number.

[0073] Furthermore, for example, if downlink data is accumulated in the communication device 31 at the first time instant, the terminal selection unit 321 may preferentially select the terminal device 4 that receives the downlink data. The downlink data is data that should be transmitted from the communication device 31 to the terminal device 4.

[0074] Furthermore, if a reservation request for allocation of communication resources is stored in the communication device 31 at the first time, the terminal selection unit 321 may preferentially select the terminal device 4 that is the target of the reservation request.

[0075] Furthermore, if downlink data having an allowable delay time of a predetermined time or less is accumulated in the communication device 31 at the first time, the terminal selection unit 321 may preferentially select, as the target device, a terminal device 4 that receives the downlink data having an allowable delay time of a predetermined time or less. Furthermore, if, at the first time, a reservation request for allocation of transmission and reception of data having an allowable delay time of a predetermined time or less is accumulated in the communication device 31, the terminal selection unit 321 may preferentially select, as the target device, a terminal device 4 that transmits and receives the reserved data having an allowable delay time of a predetermined time or less.

[0076] The terminal selection unit 321 sends information indicating the one or more selected target devices 4 to the terminal classification unit 322 .

[0077] The terminal classification unit 322 classifies the one or more selected target devices 4 into a first group and a second group using the information sent by the terminal selection unit 321. Here, the first group is a URLLC group, and the second group is an eMBB group. The terminal classification unit 322 sends information indicating the classified target devices 4 (hereinafter also referred to as target device information) to the resource determination unit 323, the reference information acquisition unit 324, and the allocation request unit 326.

[0078] The resource determination unit 323 determines communication blocks in an allocation range for the modulated signal. The communication blocks in the allocation range are, for example, multiple communication blocks after a second time. More specifically, the communication blocks in the allocation range are configured with multiple subcarriers and multiple OFDM symbols after the second time. The resource determination unit 323 may determine the communication blocks in the allocation range according to the number of one or more target devices 4 based on the target device information. Furthermore, if one or more target devices 4 include a terminal device 4 requesting data transmission with an allowable delay time less than a threshold, the resource determination unit 323 may set the allocation range to a range including a first number of OFDM symbols immediately after the second time. On the other hand, if one or more target devices 4 do not include a terminal device 4 requesting data transmission with an allowable delay time less than a threshold, the resource determination unit 323 may set the allocation range to a range including a second number of OFDM symbols greater than the first number. As a result, when there is a terminal device 4 requesting data transmission with an allowable delay time less than a threshold, the resource determination unit 323 can determine the allocation range so that data transmission is performed at an earlier time. The resource determination unit 323 sends information indicating the communication blocks in the allocation range (hereinafter also referred to as allocation range information) to the execution time determination unit 325 and the allocation request unit 326. The allocation range information is, for example, information that can identify the position in the frequency direction and the position in the time direction of each of the multiple communication blocks within the allocation range.

[0079] The reference information acquisition unit 324 uses the target device information to acquire information about the first group (first reference information) and information about the second group (second reference information). The first reference information includes reference information corresponding to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group. The second reference information includes reference information corresponding to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group.

[0080] The reference information corresponding to a certain target device 4 includes, for example, information indicating the allowable delay time, communication quality, and data amount in data transmission by the target device 4.

[0081] The allowable delay time is the delay time that is allowed in data transmission.

[0082] The communication quality is, for example, the communication quality in past data transmission by the target device 4. The communication quality is expressed, for example, by at least one of a Channel Quality Indicator (CQI), a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS), transmission power, and an error rate. The CQI is an index value indicating the reception quality of the target device 4. The MCS is information including an orthogonal modulation scheme and a coding rate. The CQI, MCS, transmission power, and error rate may be past statistical values (for example, average values) or may be values for the immediately preceding time period.

[0083] The amount of data may include, for example, at least one of the amount of unsent data for the target device 4, the amount of data per unit time transmitted and received in the past, the frequency of occurrence of data transmitted and received in the past, the tendency of occurrence of data transmitted and received in the past, the predicted frequency of occurrence of future data, and the predicted tendency of occurrence of future data.

[0084] Moreover, the reference information may further include a past propagation channel matrix in the corresponding target device 4 .

[0085] The reference information acquisition unit 324 may acquire, as the first reference information and the second reference information, reference information that is collected during data transmission between the communication device 31 and each of the multiple terminal devices 4 and stored in the nonvolatile memory 74 or the like. The reference information acquisition unit 324 sends the acquired first reference information and second reference information to the execution time determination unit 325 and the allocation request unit 326.

[0086] The execution time determination unit 325 determines a first execution time, which is the upper limit of the execution time of the first allocation determination process, and a second execution time, which is the upper limit of the execution time of the second allocation determination process. The first allocation determination process is a process in which the first allocation determination device 5 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the first group and generates first allocation information. The second allocation determination process is a process in which the second allocation determination device 6 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the second group and generates second allocation information. The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time corresponds to, for example, the difference between the second time and the first time. The execution time determination unit 325 determines the first execution time and the second execution time based on, for example, the number of target devices 4 in each group, the amount of data to be transmitted, channel conditions, etc., using the first reference information, the second reference information, and the allocation range information. Specifically, the execution time determination unit 325 determines the first execution time and the second execution time based on the number of target devices 4 belonging to the first group and the number of target devices 4 belonging to the second group. For example, if the number of target devices 4 belonging to the first group is equal to or greater than the threshold, the execution time determination unit 325 lengthens the first execution time and shortens the second execution time.

[0087] The execution time determination unit 325 sends the determined first execution time and second execution time to the allocation request unit 326.

[0088] The allocation request unit 326 transmits a first allocation request to the first allocation determination device 5. The first allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, first reference information, and a first execution time. Then, the allocation request unit 326 receives, from the first allocation determination device 5, first allocation information generated in response to the first allocation request. The first allocation information is received, for example, within the first execution time after transmitting the first allocation request.

[0089] In response to receiving the first allocation information, the allocation request unit 326 transmits a second allocation request to the second allocation determination device 6. The second allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, second reference information, a second execution time, and the first allocation information. Note that when the first allocation information is transmitted from the first allocation determination device 5 to the second allocation determination device 6, the second allocation request does not need to include the first allocation information. Then, the allocation request unit 326 receives, from the second allocation determination device 6, the second allocation information generated in response to the second allocation request. The second allocation information is received, for example, within the second execution time after transmitting the second allocation request. Therefore, the allocation request unit 326 can acquire the first allocation information and the second allocation information between the first time and the second time. The allocation request unit 326 sends the first allocation information and the second allocation information to the allocation processing unit 327.

[0090] The allocation processing unit 327 performs allocation processing using the first allocation information and the second allocation information. Specifically, the allocation processing unit 327 allocates communication blocks to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information. The allocation processing unit 327 allocates communication blocks to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information. Information on the communication blocks allocated to each target device 4 is notified to the communication device 31 and transmitted to the corresponding target device 4. Each target device 4 performs data transmission with the communication device 31 (base station 3) using a modulated signal corresponding to the allocated communication block.

[0091] In the allocation process, the allocation processing unit 327 may set at least one of the subcarrier spacing, the orthogonal modulation scheme, the transmission power, the coding rate, and the propagation channel matrix used in the Massive MIMO scheme. The subcarrier spacing is set, for example, for each of a plurality of resource blocks included in the modulated signal. The orthogonal modulation scheme, the transmission power, and the coding rate are set, for example, for the data included in each communication block. The propagation channel matrix is set, for example, for each of one or more target devices 4.

[0092] With the above configuration, the control device 32 can acquire the first allocation information and the second allocation information between the first time and the second time determined by scheduling, thereby allowing the control device 32 to allocate communication blocks to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group and one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group without delay.

[0093] Note that when the mixed-numerology scheme is adopted and the modulated signal may include resource blocks with different subcarrier spacings, the terminal selection unit 321 selects, from the multiple terminal devices 4, one or more terminal devices 4 (one or more target devices 4) that use the same subcarrier spacing and to which communication resources should be allocated at the second time. In this case, the determination of the allocation of communication blocks is performed for one or more target devices 4 that use the same subcarrier spacing. Furthermore, the determination of the allocation of communication blocks to target devices 4 that use a certain subcarrier spacing and the determination of the allocation of communication blocks to target devices 4 that use a different subcarrier spacing may be performed in parallel or sequentially. The times at which these two allocations are determined may or may not be synchronized. For example, the cycle for determining the allocation of communication blocks to target devices 4 that use a smaller subcarrier spacing may be made shorter.

[0094] (First allocation determination device 5) The first allocation determination device 5 includes, for example, a request receiving unit 51, a setting unit 52, and an allocation determination unit 53.

[0095] The request receiving unit 51 receives a first allocation request from the control device 32 of the base station 3. The first allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, first reference information, and a first execution time. The request receiving unit 51 sends, for example, the first execution time to the setting unit 52. In addition, the request receiving unit 51 sends, for example, the target device information, allocation range information, and first reference information to the allocation determination unit 53.

[0096] The setting unit 52 determines an algorithm (first algorithm) for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the first execution time. The determined first algorithm is an algorithm that enables the allocation determination unit 53 to determine, within the first execution time, communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group.

[0097] Specifically, for example, when the first execution time is less than the first threshold, the setting unit 52 selects an algorithm with a low amount of calculation. Also, for example, when the first execution time is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the setting unit 52 selects an algorithm with a high amount of calculation. An algorithm with a low amount of calculation is, for example, an algorithm with a narrow search range for the optimal solution. An algorithm with a high amount of calculation is, for example, an algorithm with a wide search range, such as an algorithm that performs an exhaustive search for the optimal combination.

[0098] The setting unit 52 sets the allocation determination unit 53 to operate in accordance with the determined first algorithm. Alternatively, the setting unit 52 may notify the allocation determination unit 53 of the first algorithm.

[0099] Furthermore, the setting unit 52 may determine a scheduling policy (first scheduling policy) for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the first execution time. The scheduling policy differs, for example, for each group of terminal devices 4. The first scheduling policy, for example, does not allocate communication blocks corresponding to a predetermined number of OFDM symbols from the end of M (for example, 14) OFDM symbols that make up the allocation range, allocates communication blocks that are as early in the time direction as possible (sets a limit on the latest communication block that can be allocated), minimizes the average delay time of one or more target devices 4, etc.

[0100] Furthermore, the setting unit 52 may select, for example, one machine learning model from multiple machine learning models that can be used by the allocation determination unit 53 based on the first execution time. The multiple machine learning models each have a different calculation time. The selected one machine learning model is a machine learning model that enables the allocation determination unit 53 to determine, within the first execution time, the communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group. In this case, the setting unit 52 sets the allocation determination unit 53 to operate using the selected machine learning model. Alternatively, the setting unit 52 may notify the allocation determination unit 53 of the selected machine learning model.

[0101] Alternatively, the setting unit 52 may set a parameter related to the calculation time for a solver that calculates a solution to a Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) problem and is used by the allocation determination unit 53. The set parameter is a parameter that enables the allocation determination unit 53 to determine, within a first execution time, the communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group.

[0102] The allocation determination unit 53 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group based on the first scheduling policy, target device information, allocation range information, and first reference information. The one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group are identified by the target device information. More specifically, the allocation determination unit 53 executes a process of determining, based on the first reference information, which of the multiple communication blocks in the allocation range to allocate to which of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group in accordance with the first scheduling policy. Note that this process is, for example, a process to which a first algorithm is applied. The multiple communication blocks in the allocation range are identified by the allocation range information. The allocation determination unit 53 determines, based on the first reference information, which of the multiple communication blocks in the allocation range to allocate to which of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group, using, for example, exhaustive search, a machine learning model, or a solver that calculates a solution to a QUBO problem.

[0103] For example, when using a solver that calculates a solution to a QUBO problem, the allocation determination unit 53 generates an objective function of the QUBO problem based on the target device information, the allocation range information, and the first reference information. The allocation determination unit 53 provides the generated objective function to the QUBO solver to obtain a solution that minimizes the objective function. The obtained solution indicates the determined allocation of communication blocks.

[0104] The allocation determination unit 53 generates allocation information (first allocation information) indicating the determined allocation of the communication blocks. The first allocation information may include information indicating at least one of an orthogonal modulation scheme, transmission power, coding rate, and a propagation channel matrix used in the Massive MIMO scheme. The orthogonal modulation scheme, transmission power, and coding rate are set for data included in each communication block, for example. The propagation channel matrix is set for each of one or more target devices 4, for example. The allocation determination unit 53 notifies the control device 32 of the generated first allocation information.

[0105] With the above configuration, upon receiving a first allocation request from the control device 32, the first allocation determination device 5 can provide the first allocation information to the control device 32 within the first execution time.

[0106] (Second allocation determination device 6) The second allocation determination device 6 includes, for example, a request receiving unit 61, a setting unit 62, and an allocation determination unit 63.

[0107] The request receiving unit 61 receives a second allocation request from the control device 32 of the base station 3. The second allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, second reference information, second execution time, and first allocation information. Note that the first allocation information does not have to be included in the second allocation request. In that case, the request receiving unit 61 receives the first allocation information from the first allocation determination device 5. The request receiving unit 61 sends, for example, the second execution time to the setting unit 62. Furthermore, the request receiving unit 61 sends, for example, the target device information, allocation range information, second reference information, and first allocation information to the allocation determination unit 63.

[0108] The setting unit 62 determines an algorithm (second algorithm) for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the second execution time. The determined second algorithm is an algorithm that enables the allocation determination unit 63 to determine, within the second execution time, the communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group.

[0109] Specifically, for example, if the second execution time is less than the second threshold, the setting unit 62 selects an algorithm with a small amount of calculation. Also, for example, if the second execution time is equal to or greater than the second threshold, the setting unit 62 selects an algorithm with a large amount of calculation.

[0110] The setting unit 62 sets the allocation determination unit 63 to operate in accordance with the determined second algorithm. Alternatively, the setting unit 62 may notify the allocation determination unit 63 of the second algorithm.

[0111] Furthermore, the setting unit 62 may determine a scheduling policy (second scheduling policy) for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the second execution time. The second scheduling policy is different from the first scheduling policy. The second scheduling policy is, for example, round robin, max throughput, proportional fairness, etc.

[0112] Furthermore, the setting unit 62 may select, for example, one machine learning model from multiple machine learning models that can be used by the allocation determination unit 63 based on the second execution time. The multiple machine learning models each have a different calculation time. The selected one machine learning model is a machine learning model that enables the allocation determination unit 63 to determine, within the second execution time, the communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group. In this case, the setting unit 62 sets the allocation determination unit 63 to operate using the selected machine learning model. Alternatively, the setting unit 62 may notify the allocation determination unit 63 of the selected machine learning model.

[0113] Alternatively, the setting unit 62 may set a parameter related to the calculation time for a solver that calculates a solution to the QUBO problem and is used by the allocation determination unit 63. The set parameter is a parameter that enables the allocation determination unit 63 to determine, within the second execution time, the communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group.

[0114] The allocation determination unit 63 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group based on the second scheduling policy, target device information, allocation range information, second reference information, and first allocation information. The one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group are identified by the target device information. More specifically, the allocation determination unit 63 first determines remaining communication blocks after excluding the communication blocks indicated in the first allocation information from the multiple communication blocks in the allocation range. The multiple communication blocks in the allocation range are identified by the allocation range information. Furthermore, the communication blocks indicated in the first allocation information are communication blocks that have already been determined to be allocated to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group. The allocation determination unit 63 executes a process of determining, based on the second reference information, which of the remaining communication blocks to allocate to which of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group in accordance with the second scheduling policy. Note that this process is, for example, a process to which the second algorithm is applied. The allocation determination unit 63 determines, based on the second reference information, which of the remaining communication blocks to allocate to which of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group, for example, using exhaustive search, machine learning, or a solver that calculates a solution to the QUBO problem.

[0115] The allocation determination unit 63 generates allocation information (second allocation information) indicating the determined allocation of the communication blocks. The second allocation information may include information indicating at least one of an orthogonal modulation scheme, transmission power, coding rate, and a propagation channel matrix used in the Massive MIMO scheme. The orthogonal modulation scheme, transmission power, and coding rate are set for data included in each communication block, for example. The propagation channel matrix is set for each of one or more target devices 4, for example. The allocation determination unit 63 notifies the control device 32 of the generated second allocation information.

[0116] With the above configuration, the second allocation determination device 6 can provide the second allocation information to the control device 32 within the second execution time in response to receiving the second allocation request from the control device 32.

[0117] The communication resources to be allocated by the first allocation determination device 5 and the second allocation determination device 6 may be communication resources other than communication blocks. Examples of communication resources other than communication blocks include antennas, codes, power, and orbital angular momentum (OAM).

[0118] 10 is a diagram showing an example of timing related to the allocation of communication resources. The first time t1 and the second time t2 are times determined in advance by scheduling. The first time t1 is, for example, the time when the allocation determination process starts. The second time t2 is, for example, the time when the allocation process starts. The second time t2 is a time later than the first time t1.

[0119] The allocation determination process is a process of selecting one or more terminal devices 4 (one or more target devices 4) to which communication blocks should be allocated at the second time t2, and determining the allocation of communication blocks to each target device 4 for each group to which the one or more target devices 4 belong. The allocation process is a process of allocating communication blocks to each target device 4 based on the allocation of communication blocks determined in the allocation determination process. After the allocation process is completed, each target device 4 transmits data with the communication device 31 using the allocated communication blocks.

[0120] The allocation determination process is completed within the time period from the first time t1 to the second time t2.

[0121] More specifically, the allocation determination process includes a first allocation determination process and a second allocation determination process. The first allocation determination process is a process in which the first allocation determination device 5 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the first group and generates first allocation information. The second allocation determination process is a process in which the second allocation determination device 6 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each target device 4 belonging to the second group and generates second allocation information.

[0122] The first execution time is the upper limit of the execution time of the first allocation determination process, that is, the first allocation determination device 5 completes the first allocation determination process within the first execution time.

[0123] The second execution time is the upper limit of the execution time of the second allocation determination process. That is, the second allocation determination device 6 completes the second allocation determination process within the second execution time.

[0124] The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time corresponds to, for example, the time from the first time t1 to the second time t2. The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is a time based on the slot length. More specifically, the sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is, for example, equal to the slot length. Furthermore, the sum of the first execution time and the second execution time may be equal to an integer multiple of the slot length. Alternatively, the sum of the first execution time and the second execution time may be equal to or less than the slot length.

[0125] An example of a case where the sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is equal to or less than the slot length is when a third allocation determination process is further executed between the first time t1 and the second time t2. The third allocation determination process is, for example, a process of determining communication blocks to be assigned to each target device 4 belonging to the third group and generating third allocation information. The third allocation determination process is completed within the third execution time, for example. Furthermore, the sum of the first execution time, the second execution time, and the third execution time corresponds to the slot length, for example. In this way, between the first time t1 and the second time t2, an allocation determination process corresponding to a group other than the first and second groups may be further executed. In this case, the execution time of the allocation determination process by each allocation determination device is determined so that the allocation determination process corresponding to all groups is completed between the first time t1 and the second time t2.

[0126] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of setting the first time and the second time.

[0127] When the control device 32 executes the allocation process for each predetermined number of slots, the first time t1 is a time before the predetermined number of slots that are the targets of the allocation process. The predetermined number of slots is, for example, one slot. The first time t1 may be the start time of the slot, or may be a time shifted a predetermined time before or after the start time of the slot.

[0128] The first time t1 and the second time t2 may be times asynchronous with the subframes, for example. The first time t1 and the second time t2 may be times set when a predetermined event occurs, for example. Specifically, the control device 32 (e.g., the terminal selection unit 321) may determine the time when a predetermined amount of downlink data or a predetermined amount of reservation requests for transmission and reception allocation are accumulated in the communication device 31 as the first time t1. If the time when the predetermined event occurs is set as the first time t1, the control device 32 may set the second time t2 to, for example, a time that is a predetermined time after the first time. Alternatively, if the time when the predetermined event occurs is set as the first time t1, the control device 32 may set the second time to, for example, the start time of the subframe immediately after the first time t1 or a time that is a predetermined time before the start time of the subframe immediately after the first time t1.

[0129] The time from the first time t1 to the second time t2 is, for example, a time based on the slot length.

[0130] 12 and 13, an example of allocation of communication blocks to one or more target devices 4 will be described. Of the one or more target devices 4, the allocation of communication blocks to each target device 4 belonging to a first group (URLLC) is determined by a first allocation determination device 5. Of the one or more target devices 4, the allocation of communication blocks to each target device 4 belonging to a second group (eMBB) is determined by a second allocation determination device 6.

[0131] Here, we will illustrate a case where (1) the allocation range is composed of a time equivalent to 14 OFDM symbols (i.e., one slot) and a frequency band equivalent to 18 resource block groups, and (2) five target devices 4 are included in each of the first and second groups. That is, the allocation range includes 252 (=14×18) resource block groups. Each of the 252 resource block groups is allocated as one communication block. Note that the 252 resource block groups may include resource block groups that are used for transmitting control information and cannot be used for data transmission. However, this example does not take into account resource block groups used for transmitting control information. Furthermore, the five target devices 4 belonging to the first group will be referred to as the first to fifth target devices 4. The five target devices 4 belonging to the second group will be referred to as the sixth to tenth target devices 4.

[0132] 12 shows an example of the allocation of communication blocks determined by the first allocation determination device 5. Here, the allocation of communication blocks to the first to fifth target devices 4 belonging to the first group is determined.

[0133] Communication blocks at the earliest possible positions in the time direction are allocated to the first to fifth target devices 4. In the example shown in Fig. 12, communication blocks at the first to fourth positions in the time direction are allocated to the first to fifth target devices 4.

[0134] Specifically, the first target device 4 is assigned eight communication blocks 81 from the first to the second in the time direction. The second target device 4 is assigned eight communication blocks 82 from the first to the fourth in the time direction. The third target device 4 is assigned twelve communication blocks 83 from the first to the second in the time direction. The fourth target device 4 is assigned eight communication blocks 84 from the first to the fourth in the time direction. The fifth target device 4 is assigned eight communication blocks 85 from the first to the second in the time direction.

[0135] For URLLC target device 4 belonging to the first group, the allowable delay time is short, so the allocation of communication blocks is determined so that all requested data can be transmitted within the allowable delay time or within one slot, for example. With such an allocation, URLLC target device 4 belonging to the first group can transmit data with low delay.

[0136] 13 shows an example of the allocation of communication blocks determined by the second allocation determination device 6. Here, the allocation of communication blocks to the sixth to tenth target devices 4 belonging to the second group is determined.

[0137] The sixth to tenth target devices 4 are assigned the remaining communication blocks within the allocation range, excluding the communication blocks that have already been determined to be allocated to the first to fifth target devices 4 belonging to the first group.

[0138] Specifically, the sixth target device 4 is assigned 48 communication blocks 91 starting from the third from the beginning in the time direction. The seventh target device 4 is assigned 20 communication blocks 92 starting from the fifth from the beginning in the time direction. The eighth target device 4 is assigned 72 communication blocks 93 starting from the third from the beginning in the time direction. The ninth target device 4 is assigned 20 communication blocks 94 starting from the fifth from the beginning in the time direction. The tenth target device 4 is assigned 48 communication blocks 95 starting from the third from the beginning in the time direction.

[0139] With this allocation, the eMBB target device 4 belonging to the second group can transmit, for example, large amounts of data. Note that, since the eMBB target device 4 belonging to the second group has a longer allowable delay time than the URLLC target device 4, it is not necessary for all requested data to be transmitted within one slot, and it may be transmitted in the next slot. Therefore, if all requested data cannot be transmitted within the slots corresponding to the current allocation range, the allocation of communication blocks is determined within the slots corresponding to the next allocation range.

[0140] Next, with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16, the procedures of the processes executed in the base station 3, the first allocation determination device 5, and the second allocation determination device 6 will be described.

[0141] (Allocation control processing) 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of allocation control processing executed in the control device 32 of the base station 3. The allocation control processing is processing in which first allocation information and second allocation information are acquired between a first time and a second time determined by scheduling, and communication blocks are allocated to the terminal device 4. The control device 32 starts the allocation control processing at the first time or at a time before the first time. Here, it is assumed that the subcarrier interval of the communication blocks allocated to the terminal device 4 is constant, that is, the slot length is constant.

[0142] Specifically, first, the control device 32 determines whether the current time is the first time (step S101). The control device 32 acquires the current time using, for example, the timer 76. If the current time is earlier than the first time (No in step S101), the process by the control device 32 returns to step S101, and it is determined again whether the current time is the first time. In other words, the control device 32 waits until the current time reaches the first time.

[0143] If the current time is the first time (Yes in step S101), the control device 32 selects one or more terminal devices 4 (target devices 4) to which communication resources should be allocated at the second time from the multiple terminal devices 4 (step S102). The control device 32 classifies the one or more target devices 4 into target devices 4 belonging to a first group and target devices 4 belonging to a second group (step S103).

[0144] Furthermore, the control device 32 determines communication blocks in an allocation range in the modulated signal (step S104). The communication blocks in the allocation range are made up of, for example, a plurality of communication blocks after the second time.

[0145] Next, the control device 32 acquires information about the first group (first reference information) and information about the second group (second reference information) (step S105). The first reference information includes reference information corresponding to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group. The second reference information includes reference information corresponding to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group.

[0146] The control device 32 determines the first execution time and the second execution time using the acquired first reference information, second reference information, and the slot length (step S106). The first execution time is an upper limit of the execution time of the process for determining the allocation of communication resources for the first group. The second execution time is an upper limit of the execution time of the process for determining the allocation of communication resources for the second group. The control device 32 transmits an allocation request (first allocation request) to the first allocation determination device 5 (step S107), the allocation request including target device information indicating one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group, allocation range information indicating the allocation range, first reference information, and the first execution time. The information indicating the allocation range is information indicating the communication blocks of the allocation range determined in step S104.

[0147] Next, the control device 32 determines whether or not the first allocation information has been received from the first allocation determination device 5 (step S108). If the first allocation information has not been received from the first allocation determination device 5 (No in step S108), the processing by the control device 32 returns to step S108, and it is determined again whether or not the first allocation information has been received from the first allocation determination device 5. In other words, the control device 32 waits until the first allocation information is received from the first allocation determination device 5.

[0148] When the control device 32 receives the first allocation information from the first allocation determination device 5 (Yes in step S108), the control device 32 transmits an allocation request (second allocation request) including allocation range information, target device information indicating one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group, second reference information, second execution time, and first allocation information to the second allocation determination device 6 (step S109). Note that when the first allocation information is transmitted from the first allocation determination device 5 to the second allocation determination device 6, the second allocation request does not necessarily include the first allocation information.

[0149] Next, the control device 32 determines whether or not the second allocation information has been received from the second allocation determination device 6 (step S110). If the second allocation information has not been received from the second allocation determination device 6 (No in step S110), the processing by the control device 32 returns to step S110, and it is determined again whether or not the second allocation information has been received from the second allocation determination device 6. In other words, the control device 32 waits until the second allocation information is received from the second allocation determination device 6.

[0150] When the second allocation information is received from the second allocation determination device 6 (Yes in step S110), the control device 32 determines whether the current time is the second time (step S111). When the current time is earlier than the second time (No in step S111), the process by the control device 32 returns to step S111, and it is determined again whether the current time is the second time. In other words, the control device 32 waits until the current time reaches the second time.

[0151] If the current time is the second time (Yes in step S111), the control device 32 performs allocation processing using the first allocation information and the second allocation information (step S112), and ends the allocation control processing.

[0152] Through the above allocation control process, the control device 32 can acquire the first allocation information and the second allocation information between the first time and the second time determined by the scheduling, thereby enabling the control device 32 to allocate communication blocks to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group and one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group without delay.

[0153] (First allocation determination process) 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of a first allocation determination process executed by the first allocation determination device 5. The first allocation determination process is a process of generating first allocation information and notifying the control device 32 of the base station 3 within a specified first execution time. The first allocation determination device 5 executes the first allocation determination process in response to receiving a first allocation request from the control device 32. The first allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, first reference information, and a first execution time.

[0154] First, the first allocation determination device 5 determines an algorithm (first algorithm) to be used for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the first execution time (step S21).

[0155] The first allocation determination device 5 determines communication blocks to be allocated to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group based on the first algorithm, target device information, allocation range information, and first reference information (step S22). More specifically, the first allocation determination device 5 executes a process of determining, based on the first reference information, which of the multiple communication blocks in the allocation range to allocate to which of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group in accordance with the first scheduling policy. This process is a process to which the first algorithm is applied.

[0156] Then, the first allocation determination device 5 transmits allocation information (first allocation information) indicating the determined allocation of communication blocks to the control device 32 of the base station 3 (step S23), and ends the first allocation determination process.

[0157] By the above-described first allocation determination process, the first allocation determination device 5 can generate first allocation information within the specified first execution time and notify the control device 32. Specifically, the first allocation determination device 5 can notify the control device 32 of the first allocation information within the first execution time by selecting an algorithm according to the first execution time.

[0158] (Second allocation determination process) 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the second allocation determination process executed by the second allocation determination device 6. The second allocation determination process is a process of generating second allocation information within a specified second execution time and notifying the control device 32 of the base station 3. The second allocation determination device 6 executes the second allocation determination process in response to receiving a second allocation request from the control device 32. The second allocation request includes, for example, target device information, allocation range information, second reference information, second execution time, and first allocation information. Note that when the second allocation determination device 6 receives the first allocation information from the first allocation determination device 5, the second allocation request does not necessarily include the first allocation information.

[0159] First, the second allocation determination device 6 determines an algorithm (second algorithm) to be used for determining the allocation of communication blocks based on the second execution time (step S31). Then, the second allocation determination device 6 determines the remaining communication blocks excluding the communication blocks indicated in the first allocation information from the multiple communication blocks in the allocation range (step S32). The communication blocks indicated in the first allocation information are communication blocks that have already been determined to be allocated to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group.

[0160] Next, the second allocation determination device 6 determines, from the remaining communication blocks, communication blocks to be allocated to each of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group, based on the second algorithm and the second reference information (step S33). More specifically, the second allocation determination device 6 executes a process of determining, based on the second reference information, which of the remaining communication blocks to allocate to which of the one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group, in accordance with the second scheduling policy. This process is a process to which the second algorithm is applied.

[0161] Then, the second allocation determination device 6 transmits allocation information (second allocation information) indicating the determined allocation of communication blocks to the control device 32 of the base station 3 (step S33), and ends the second allocation determination process.

[0162] By the above-described second allocation determination process, the second allocation determination device 6 can generate second allocation information and notify the control device 32 within the specified second execution time. Specifically, the second allocation determination device 6 can notify the control device 32 of the second allocation information within the second execution time by selecting an algorithm according to the second execution time. Furthermore, the second allocation determination device 6 can determine communication blocks to be allocated to each of one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group from the remaining communication blocks that have not been allocated to the target devices 4 belonging to the first group.

[0163] As described above, according to this embodiment, communication resources can be allocated without delay to multiple terminal devices with different requirements. The base station 3 (more specifically, the control device 32) determines, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining the allocation of communication resources to a first group (e.g., a URLLC group) to which one or more terminal devices 4 having a first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining the allocation of communication resources to a second group (e.g., an eMBB group) to which one or more terminal devices 4 having a second characteristic belong. The first allocation determination device 5 notifies the base station 3 of first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices 4 belonging to the first group based on a first scheduling policy within the first execution time. After the first allocation information is notified to the base station 3, the second allocation determination device 6 notifies the base station 3 of second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices 4 belonging to the second group based on a second scheduling policy and the first allocation information within a second execution time. The base station 3 allocates communication resources to each of one or more terminal devices 4 belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of one or more terminal devices 4 belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information.

[0164] In this way, the base station 3 can acquire the first allocation information within the first execution time, and the second allocation information within the second execution time, thereby enabling the base station 3 to allocate communication resources without delay to one or more target devices 4 belonging to the first group and one or more target devices 4 belonging to the second group.

[0165] In the wireless communication system 1 of this embodiment, the case where the 5G system is used has been mainly exemplified, but the configuration of the wireless communication system 1 can also be applied when various wireless communication systems such as Long Term Evolution (LTE (registered trademark)), 6G, wireless local area network (wireless LAN), etc. are used.

[0166] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0167] The following additional notes are provided regarding the above-described embodiment. [1] A base station capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices, each of which has either the first feature or the second feature; a first allocation determination device that determines an allocation of communication resources to at least one of the plurality of terminal devices; a second allocation determination device that determines an allocation of communication resources to at least one other of the plurality of terminal devices; The base station determining, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; the first allocation determination device notifies the base station of first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy within the first execution time; the second allocation determination device notifies the base station of second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information within the second execution time after the first allocation information is notified to the base station; the base station allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information. Wireless communication system. [2] The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is based on the slot length. [1] A wireless communication system according to [1]. [3] The base station determines the first execution time and the second execution time using the number of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group and the number of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group. [1] or [2]. [4] The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is equal to or less than the slot length. A wireless communication system according to any one of [1] to [3]. [5] The first allocation determination device receiving information about the first execution time and the first group from the base station; notifying the base station of the first allocation information within the first execution time based on the first policy, the information about the first group, and a first algorithm; A wireless communication system according to any one of [1] to [4]. [6] The first allocation determination device determines at least one of the first policy and the first algorithm based on the received first execution time. [5] The wireless communication system according to [5]. [7] The second allocation determination device receiving the second execution time and information about the second group from the base station; receiving the first allocation information from the base station or the first allocation determination device; notifying the base station of the second allocation information within the second execution time based on the second policy, the information on the second group, the first allocation information, and a second algorithm; A wireless communication system according to any one of [1] to [6]. [8] The second allocation determination device determines at least one of the second policy and the second algorithm based on the received second execution time. [7] The wireless communication system according to [7]. [9] The base station: selecting a plurality of terminal devices to which communication resources should be allocated from the plurality of terminal devices; classifying the selected plurality of terminal devices into the first group to which terminal devices having the first characteristic belong and the second group to which terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; A wireless communication system according to any one of [1] to [8].

[10] The communication resources allocated to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group and the communication resources allocated to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group are specified by time and frequency. A wireless communication system according to any one of [1] to [9].

[11] The slot length is a period during which a specific number of symbols are transmitted and is determined by the base station. A communication system according to any one of [1] to

[10] .

[12] A base station capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices, each having either the first or second characteristic, a determination unit that determines, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; an acquisition unit that acquires, within the first execution time, first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy, and, after acquiring the first allocation information, acquires, within the second execution time, second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information; an allocation unit that allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information; A base station comprising:

[13] A program executed by a computer capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices each having either the first feature or the second feature, the program including: a step of determining, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining allocation of communication resources for a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining allocation of communication resources for a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; a step of acquiring, within the first execution time, first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy; a step of acquiring, after acquiring the first allocation information, second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information within the second execution time; a step of allocating communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information; a step of allocating communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information; A program that executes the following. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1...wireless communication system, 2...core network, 3...base station, 4...terminal device, 5...first allocation determination device, 6...second allocation determination device, 31...communication device, 32...control device, 321...terminal selection unit, 322...terminal classification unit, 323...resource determination unit, 324...reference information acquisition unit, 325...execution time determination unit, 326...allocation request unit, 327...allocation processing unit, 51...request reception unit, 52...setting unit, 53...allocation determination unit, 61...request reception unit, 62...setting unit, 63...allocation determination unit, 71...CPU, 72...RAM, 73...ROM, 74...non-volatile memory, 75...communication I / F.

Claims

1. a base station capable of wirelessly communicating with a plurality of terminal devices, each of which has either the first feature or the second feature; a first allocation determination device that determines an allocation of communication resources to at least one of the plurality of terminal devices; a second allocation determination device that determines an allocation of communication resources to at least one other of the plurality of terminal devices; The base station determining, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining an allocation of communication resources for a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; the first allocation determination device notifies the base station of first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy within the first execution time; the second allocation determination device notifies the base station of second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information within the second execution time after the first allocation information is notified to the base station; the base station allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information. Wireless communication system.

2. The sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is based on the slot length.

10. The wireless communication system of claim 1.

3. the base station determines the first execution time and the second execution time using the number of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group and the number of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group.

3. The wireless communication system according to claim 2.

4. the sum of the first execution time and the second execution time is equal to or less than the slot length; 3. The wireless communication system according to claim 2.

5. The first allocation determination device receiving information about the first execution time and the first group from the base station; notifying the base station of the first allocation information within the first execution time based on the first policy, the information on the first group, and a first algorithm; The wireless communication system according to claim 1 .

6. the first allocation determination device determines at least one of the first policy and the first algorithm based on the received first execution time; 6. The wireless communication system according to claim 5.

7. The second allocation determination device receiving information about the second execution time and the second group from the base station; receiving the first allocation information from the base station or the first allocation determination device; notifying the base station of the second allocation information within the second execution time based on the second policy, the information on the second group, the first allocation information, and a second algorithm; 6. The wireless communication system according to claim 5.

8. the second allocation determination device determines at least one of the second policy and the second algorithm based on the received second execution time.

8. The wireless communication system according to claim 7.

9. The base station selecting a plurality of terminal devices to which communication resources should be allocated from the plurality of terminal devices; classifying the selected plurality of terminal devices into the first group to which terminal devices having the first characteristic belong and the second group to which terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; 10. The wireless communication system of claim 1.

10. A communication resource allocated to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group and a communication resource allocated to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group are specified by time and frequency.

2. The wireless communication system according to claim 1.

11. The slot length is a period during which a specific number of symbols are transmitted and is determined by the base station. A communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A base station capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices, each of which has either the first feature or the second feature, a determination unit that determines, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; an acquisition unit that acquires, within the first execution time, first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy, and, after acquiring the first allocation information, acquires, within the second execution time, second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information; an allocation unit that allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information, and allocates communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information; A base station comprising:

13. A program executed by a computer capable of wireless communication with a plurality of terminal devices each having either a first feature or a second feature, the program including: a step of determining, based on the slot length, a first execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a first group to which one or more terminal devices having the first characteristic belong, and a second execution time for determining allocation of communication resources to a second group to which one or more terminal devices having the second characteristic belong; a step of acquiring, within the first execution time, first allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on a first policy; a step of acquiring, after acquiring the first allocation information, second allocation information indicating communication resources to be allocated to each of one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on a second policy and the first allocation information within the second execution time; a step of allocating communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the first group based on the first allocation information; allocating communication resources to each of the one or more terminal devices belonging to the second group based on the second allocation information; A program that executes the following.

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