Method and system for dynamically switching modulation and coding scheme (MCS) table in network

Abstract

The disclosure provides system (108) and a method (600) for dynamically switching modulation and coding scheme (MCS) table in network (106) The method (600) includes accessing current MCS index associated with scheduling for UE (104) using MCS table selected from one of MCS table 1 (502) and MCS table 2 (504). The method (600) includes determining whether current MCS index is lower than first predefined MCS index threshold. Upon determining, the method (600) includes whether current MCS index remains lower than first predefined MCS index threshold for at least predefined time period. The method (600) includes triggering Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch selected MCS table to MCS table 3 (506). The method (600) further includes utilizing preconfigured MCS index of MCS table 3 (506) with predefined target code rate to provide services to UE (104).

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DYNAMICALLY SWITCHING MODULATION AND CODING SCHEME (MCS) TABLE IN NETWORKRESERVATION OF RIGHTS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material, which is subject to intellectual property rights such as, but are not limited to, copyright, design, trademark, Integrated Circuit (IC) layout design, and / or trade dress protection, belonging to Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) or its affiliates (hereinafter referred as owner). The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all rights whatsoever. All rights to such intellectual property are fully reserved by the owner.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a field of telecommunications network. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a method and a system for dynamically switching Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) table in the network.DEFINITION

[0003] As used in the present disclosure, the following terms are generally intended to have the meaning as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used to indicate otherwise.

[0004] The term ‘Good radio condition’ used herein in the specification refers to a radio propagation and link-quality state between a gNodeB and a User Equipment (UE) in which a received signal quality at the UE and / or at the gNodeB is sufficient to support comparatively higher spectral efficiency transmission. The good radio condition is characterized by one or more radio measurements satisfying corresponding quality criteria, including at least one of a relatively high Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR), a relatively high Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), a relatively high Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), a relatively high Channel Quality Indicator (CQI), and a relatively Low Block Error Rate (BLER), such that the UE may be scheduled using a higher MCS index, higher modulation order, and / or higher target code rate (for example, using one of MCS table 1 or MCS table 2).

[0005] The term ‘Poor radio condition’ used herein in the specification refers to a radio propagation and link-quality state between a gNodeB and a UE in which the received signal quality degrades and is insufficient to reliably support higher spectral efficiency transmission, requiring more robust transmission parameters.

[0006] The term ‘Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS)’ used herein in the specification refers to a lookup table used in cellular communication systems, such as LTE and 5G, to map specific MCS indices to corresponding modulation types and code rates. The MCS tables help define the trade-off between spectral efficiency and robustness in data transmission.

[0007] The term ‘ Spectral efficiency (SE)’ used herein in the specification refers to an efficient use of available radio spectrum to transmit data. The SE is typically measured in bits per second per Hertz (bps / Hz), representing how much information can be transmitted over a given bandwidth. Higher spectral efficiency means more data can be transmitted within the same frequency resources.

[0008] The term ‘MCS index’ used herein in the specification refers to a critical parameter in wireless communication systems that balances reliability, spectral efficiency, and throughput by dynamically adapting modulation and coding schemes to the current radio environment. The MCS index is a numerical value representing a specific combination of modulation scheme and code rate.

[0009] The term ‘Code rate’ used herein in the specification refers to a ratio of the useful data (information bits) to the total transmitted data (including redundancy, or parity bits) in a communication system. The code rate is a key parameter in error correction coding, which protects data from corruption due to noise or interference during transmission. A higher code rate transmits more information bits than redundancy bits, achieving higher spectral efficiency but less robust to errors in noisy channels. Further, a lower code rate transmits more redundancy bits relative to the information bits, thereby provides better error protection, making it more suitable for poor radio conditions, but at the cost of lower spectral efficiency.

[0010] The term ‘Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM)’ used herein in the specification refers to a digital modulation technique that combines two carrier waves of the same frequency but with a 90° phase difference (quadrature). The QAM modulates both the amplitude and phase of the carrier waves, enabling more data transmission compared to other modulation schemes like Phase-Shift Keying(PSK) or Amplitude Modulation (AM). Higher-order QAM, such as 256 QAM, provides higher spectral efficiency but requires better signal quality, such as higher Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), to distinguish between closely spaced constellation points.

[0011] The term ‘Downlink Control Information (DCI)’ used herein in the specification refers to control information transmitted by a network node such as, a gNodeB to a User Equipment (UE), for example on a physical downlink control channel, the control information being indicative of one or more scheduling and / or link-adaptation parameters for enabling the UE to receive and / or transmit data.

[0012] The term ‘gNodeB (gNB) scheduler’ used herein in the specification refers to logical module implemented in a gNodeB (e.g., via one or more processors and memory), configured to perform radio resource scheduling and link adaptation for one or more UEs. The gNB scheduler is configured to select and / or update scheduling parameters including one or more of time-frequency resource assignments, MCS indices, MCS table selection, target code rate, modulation order, and timing-related parameters.

[0013] These definitions are in addition to those expressed in the art.BACKGROUND

[0014] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section be used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0015] The evolution of cellular communication networks necessitates efficient utilization of spectral resources to ensure reliable data and voice services. Maintaining service continuity is a critical requirement in challenging scenarios, such as poor radio coverage or for cell-edge users. To address these challenges, a new Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS), such as Quadrature amplitude modulation Low Spectral Efficiency (qam64LowSE), is introduced in the network. The Low SE MCS table provides low-code-rate configurations that improve signal decoding in adverse conditions. The new MCS table provides low spectralefficiency (SE) options that facilitate better signal decoding under poor coverage conditions.

[0016] While the low SE MCS Table can enhance communication reliability for cell-edge users, an efficient mechanism to dynamically switch between the standard SE MCS tables, such as (quam256LowSE) and the low SE MCS Table, is necessary to optimize performance. Without a dynamic switching mechanism, users in poor radio conditions may continue to rely on standard MCS tables, leading to service interruptions or degraded performance. Conversely, unnecessary or premature switching to the low SE table in better conditions may waste spectral resources, reducing overall network efficiency.

[0017] There is, therefore, a need in the art to provide a method and a system that can mitigate the disadvantages of the prior art.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0018] In an embodiment, a method for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network is described. The method includes accessing a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the method further include determining whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the method includes determining whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the method includes triggering a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the method includes utilizing a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0019] In an embodiment, each of the MCS table 1, the MCS table 2, and the MCS table 3 includes a plurality of entries, each entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order, a target code rate, and a spectral efficiency, and the MCS table 3 includes one or more entries having spectral efficiencies lower than spectral efficiencies of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2.

[0020] In another embodiment, upon switching to the MCS table 3, the method includes continue scheduling for the UE using the preconfigured MCS index down to a lowest MCS index of the MCS table 3.

[0021] In another embodiment, utilizing the preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3, the method includes determining whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3. Upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, the method includes determining whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period. Upon determining, the method includes triggering the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2.

[0022] In another embodiment, upon switching from the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2, the method includes utilizing a configured MCS index of the switched MCS table.

[0023] In another embodiment, the first predefined MCS index threshold associated with one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2 and the second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 are configured at the gNB scheduler.

[0024] In another embodiment, the predefined time period includes a switching time for switching from the selected MCS table to the MCS table 3 and the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2, and the switching time includes 2000 milliseconds.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network is described. The system includes a gNodeB (gNB) scheduler configured to access a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the gNB scheduler is configured to determine whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the gNB scheduler is configured to determine whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at leasta predefined time period. Upon determining, the gNB scheduler is configured to trigger a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the gNB scheduler is configured to utilize a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, a computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network is disclosed. The method includes accessing a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the method further include determining whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the method includes determining whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the method includes triggering a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the method includes utilizing a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.OBJECTIVES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0027] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0028] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a system to ensure reliable data and voice services for users in poor radio conditions by dynamically switching to a low spectral efficiency (SE) Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) table (MCS table 3).

[0029] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a system to introduce a mechanism using Downlink Control Information (DCI) signalling that dynamically switches between normal SE MCS table (MCS table 1 and MCS table 2) and the low SE MCS Table based on radio conditions.

[0030] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a system to enable the MCS table switching approach for both uplink and downlink communication scenarios.

[0031] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a system to enhance the gNodeB scheduler's capability to evaluate real-time switching criteria, such as maintaining a defined MCS threshold for a specified duration, before triggering the switch.

[0032] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a method and a system to enable seamless transitions between high-code-rate and low code rate MCS tables, ensuring service quality during fluctuating radio conditions.

[0033] Another objective of the present disclosure is to avoid unnecessary utilization of low SE MCS tables when the user is in good network condition, thereby maximizing spectral efficiency.

[0034] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes the disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture of a system for dynamically switching Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of the system configured for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary system architecture configured for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary process flow for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary MCS tables used for switching in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which or with which the embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented.

[0043] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS100 - Network architecture102 -User(s)104 -User Equipments (UEs)106 - Network108 - System200 - Block diagram202 - Processor(s)204 - Memory206 -Interface(s)208 - gNodeB Scheduler- Database- System Architecture-gNodeB- Physical Layer (LI)- Distributor Unit (DU)- Central Unit (CU)- Low Physical layer- High Physical Layer- Radio Link Control (RLC)- Medium Access Control (MAC)- Schedular- Radio Resource Control (RRC)- Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP)- Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)- Flow Diagram- Normal Spectral Efficiency (SE) table (MCS table 1) - Normal Spectral Efficiency (SE) table (MCS table 2) - Low Spectral Efficiency (SE) table (MCS table 3) - Method- Computer system- External Storage Device720 - Bus730 - Main Memory740 - Read Only Memory750 - Mass Storage Device760 - Communication Port770 - ProcessorDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.

[0045] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.

[0046] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without thesespecific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0047] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.

[0048] The word “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive like the term “comprising” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0049] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or “an instance” or “one instance” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0050] The terminology used herein is to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be noted that the terms “mobile device”, “user equipment”, “user device”, “communication device”, “device” and similar terms are used interchangeably for the purpose of describing the invention. These terms are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or imply any specific functionality or limitations on the described embodiments. The use of these terms is solely for convenience and clarity of description. The invention is not limited to any particular type of device or equipment, and it should be understood that other equivalent terms or variations thereof may be used interchangeably without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.

[0051] As used herein, an “electronic device”, or “portable electronic device”, or “user device” or “communication device” or “user equipment” or “device” refers to any electrical, electronic, electromechanical, and computing device. The user device is capable of receiving and / or transmitting one or parameters, performing function / s, communicating with other user devices, and transmitting data to the other user devices. The user equipment may have a processor, a display, a memory, a battery, and an input-means such as a hard keypad and / or a soft keypad. The user equipment may be capable of operating on any radio access technology including but not limited to IP-enabled communication, Zig Bee, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, etc. For instance, the user equipment may include, but not limited to, a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general -purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer,mainframe computer, or any other device as may be obvious to a person skilled in the art for implementation of the features of the present disclosure.

[0052] Further, the user device may also comprise a “processor” or “processing unit” includes processing unit, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. The processor may be a general -purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a Digital Signalling Processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor is a hardware processor.

[0053] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment, as well as other embodiments of the disclosure, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

[0054] Wireless communication technology has rapidly evolved over the past few decades. The first generation of wireless communication technology was analog, offering only voice services. Further, text messaging and data services became possible when the second-generation (2G) technology was introduced. The third generation (3G) technology marked the introduction of high-speed internet access, mobile video calling, and location-based services. The fourth generation (4G) technology revolutionized the wireless communication with faster data speeds, improved network coverage, and security. Currently, fifth generation (5G) technology is being deployed, offering significantly faster data speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect many devices simultaneously. Further, 6G successor to 5G is expected to provide significantly high data speed with reduced latency, which may offer improved connectivity for a vast number of devicesconcurrently. The capabilities of 6G enable new types of applications and services, such as advanced augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), holographic communications, and more immersive digital experiences. These advancements represent a significant leap forward from previous generations, enabling enhanced mobile broadband, improved Internet of Things (loT) connectivity, and more efficient use of network resources. The sixth generation (6G) technology promises to build upon these advancements, pushing the boundaries of wireless communication even further. While the 5G technology is still being rolled out globally, research and development into the 6G are rapidly progressing, with the aim of revolutionizing the way of connecting and interacting with technology.

[0055] In a Fifth Generation (5G) network, both downlink transmissions (from the base station to the user device) and uplink transmission (from the user device to the base station) rely on the Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) tables. A scheduler decides the MCS table for downlink transmission based on feedback from a user device, such as Channel Quality Indicator (CQI). For uplink, the user device adapts its MCS table based on instructions from the gNB. The MCS table may specify a code rate for data transmission using an MCS index. The MCS table assigns a unique index to each modulation and code rate combination. The scheduler in the 5G base station (gNB) selects an appropriate MCS index based on factors like Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), channel quality, and user equipment (UE) capability. Further, the code rate specifies the ratio of useful information to total transmitted data, including redundancy added for error correction. A higher code rate increases spectral efficiency but reduces error correction capability, while a lower code rate enhances robustness at the cost of efficiency.

[0056] In 5G NR, the MCS table defines the mapping between a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) index signaled in Downlink Control Information (DCI) and the corresponding modulation order, target code rate, and spectral efficiency (SE) used for a Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). The MCS table enables link adaptation by allowing the gNB to select an appropriate transmission format based on radio channel conditions, thereby balancing throughput and reliability. The UE determines the applicable MCS index table for decoding the PDSCH based on higher-layer configuration information, the DCI format, and the scrambling Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI), where the applicable MCS indextable is selected from MCS index table 1, MCS index table 2, and MCS index table 3.

[0057] Spectral efficiency (SE), as listed in the MCS tables, represents a number of information bits transmitted per resource element and is derived from the modulation order and the target code rate. Spectral efficiency is computed as a product of the modulation order and the target code rate normalized by 1024. Higher spectral efficiency values correspond to higher data rates with reduced robustness, whereas lower spectral efficiency values provide increased redundancy and improved reliability under poor channel conditions. Accordingly, SE serves as an indicator of the aggressiveness of a selected MCS and directly impacts achievable throughput and block error rate performance.

[0058] A Low Spectral Efficiency (SE) MCS table, defined as MCS index table 3, is designed to support highly robust PDSCH transmission. The MCS index table 3 includes low target code rates and primarily employs lower-order modulation across a wide range of MCS indices, resulting in significantly lower spectral efficiency compared to other MCS tables. The UE applies MCS index table 3 when configured via higher-layer signaling or when scheduled using specific RNTIs, as well as in certain semi -persistent scheduling configurations. The Low SE MCS table is particularly suitable for coverage-limited scenarios, cell-edge users, and transmissions requiring high reliability. In MCS table, an MCS index represents an entry that maps to a specific modulation order, target code rate, and spectral efficiency for data transmission. Each MCS index uniquely identifies a combination of modulation and coding parameters and is used by a scheduler and a user equipment to determine how data is transmitted over the radio interface. A higher MCS index generally corresponds to a higher code rate and higher spectral efficiency, which is suitable for good radio conditions, whereas a lower MCS index corresponds to a lower code rate and lower spectral efficiency, providing increased robustness under poor radio conditions. An index threshold in an MCS table refers to a predefined or configurable limit used by a scheduler to evaluate radio conditions and guide selection of an appropriate MCS table or MCS index. The scheduler continuously monitors a current MCS index associated with a user equipment and compares the current MCS index with the index threshold. When the current MCS index remains above the index threshold, a normal MCS table maycontinue to be used. When the current MCS index falls below the index threshold, it indicates deteriorating radio conditions, and the scheduler may trigger a transition to a low spectral efficiency MCS table or select a lower MCS index to prioritize transmission reliability over spectral efficiency.

[0059] However, ensuring reliable communication for all users, including those in poor radio coverage areas such as cell edges, is a critical challenge. The 5G network nodes use a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) Table, also referred to as 64 Low Spectral Efficiency MCS table (Low SE MCS table), specifically designed to assist users in poor coverage areas. The Low SE MCS table offers low spectral efficiency configurations that enhance signal decoding capabilities under challenging conditions. However, the static nature of existing Low SE MCS table usage creates a significant gap in adapting to dynamic radio environments. Further, there is an absence of a mechanism to dynamically switch between the normal MCS table and the Low SE MCS table in real-time based on the user's radio conditions. Without this capability, users at the cell edge may continue to rely on standard MCS configurations, which may not sustain connectivity in degraded conditions.

[0060] To address the above-mentioned issue, the present disclosure provides a method and a system to dynamically switch MCS table in the network. The method utilizes the scheduler to monitor the MCS index in real-time. When the MCS index falls below a predefined threshold and sustains this level for a configured duration, the scheduler triggers a Downlink Control Information (DCI)-based command to switch from the normal MCS table to the low SE MCS table, enabling users to continue their services using low-code-rate configurations suited for poor conditions. Further, if the radio conditions improve, the scheduler reverts the Low SE MCS table to the normal MCS table, ensuring efficient resource utilization.

[0061] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The various embodiments throughout the disclosure will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 1-FIG. 7.

[0062] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture 100 of a system 108 for dynamically switching MCS table in a network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the network architecture 100 may include one or more User Equipments (UEs) 104-1, 104-2...104-N associated with one or more users 102-1, 102-2... 102-N in an environment. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that one or more users 102-1, 102-2... 102-N may be collectively referred to as the users 102. Similarly, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that one or more UEs 104-1, 104-2... 104-N may be collectively referred to as the UE 104, the UEs 104. Although only three UE 104 are depicted in FIG. 1, however, any number of the UE 104 may be included without departing from the scope of the ongoing description.

[0063] In an embodiment, the UE 104 may include smart devices operating in a smart environment, for example, an Internet of Things (loT) system. In such an embodiment, the UE 104 may include, but are not limited to, smartphones, smart watches, smart sensors (e.g., a mechanical, a thermal, an electrical, a magnetic, etc.), networked appliances, networked peripheral devices, networked lighting system, communication devices, networked vehicle accessories, networked vehicular devices, smart accessories, tablets, a smart television (TV), computers, a smart security system, a smart home system, other devices for monitoring or interacting with or for the users 102 and / or entities, or any combination thereof. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the UE 104 may include, but not limited to, intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices, that may integrate seamlessly with each other and / or with a central server or a cloudcomputing system or any other device that is network-connected.

[0064] Additionally, in some embodiments, the UE 104 may include, but not limited to, a handheld wireless communication device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a phablet device, and so on), a wearable computer device (e.g., a headmounted display computer device, a head-mounted camera device, a wristwatch computer device, and so on), a Global Positioning System (GPS) device, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or another type of portable computer, a media playing device, a portable gaming system, and / or any other type of computer device with wireless communication capabilities, and the like. In an embodiment, the UE 104 may include, but are not limited to, any electrical, electronic, electromechanical, or equipment, or a combination of one or more of the above devices, such as virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, a laptop, a general-purpose computer, a desktop, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, a mainframecomputer, or any other computing device. Further, the UE 104 may include one or more in-built or externally coupled accessories including, but not limited to, a visual aid device such as a camera, an audio aid, a microphone, a keyboard, and input devices for receiving input from the user 102 or an entity such as a touchpad, a touch-enabled screen, an electronic pen, and the like. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the UE 104 may not be restricted to the mentioned devices and various other devices may be used.

[0065] In FIG. 1, the UE 104 may communicate with the system 108 through a network 106 for sending or receiving various types of data. In an embodiment, the network 106 may include at least one of a 5G network, a Sixth Generation (6G) network, or the like. The network 106 may enable the UE 104 to communicate with other devices in the network architecture 100 and / or with the system 108. The network 106 may include a wireless card or some other transceiver connection to facilitate this communication. In another embodiment, the network 106 may be implemented as, or include any of a variety of different communication technologies such as a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless network, a mobile network, a Virtual Private Network (VPN), the Internet, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or the like.

[0066] In an embodiment, the network 106 may include, by way of example but not limitation, at least a portion of one or more networks having one or more nodes that transmit, receive, forward, generate, buffer, store, route, switch, process, or a combination thereof, etc. one or more messages, packets, signals, waves, voltage or current levels, some combination thereof, or so forth. The network 106 may also include, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of the RAN, a wireless network, a wired network, an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet-switched network, a circuit-switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a Public-Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof.

[0067] In an embodiment, the system 108 may access a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the system 108 may determine whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCSindex threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the system 108 may determine whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the system 108 may trigger a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the system 108 may utilize a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0068] In another embodiment, the system 108 may determine whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3. Upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, the system 108 may determine whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period. Upon determining, the system 108 may trigger the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2.

[0069] In an embodiment, the UE 104 is communicatively coupled with the network 106. The network 106 may receive a connection request from the UE 104. The network 106 may send an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE 104. The UE 104 may transmit a plurality of signals in response to the connection request.

[0070] Although FIG. 1 shows exemplary components of the network architecture 100, in other embodiments, the network architecture 100 may include fewer components, different components, differently arranged components, or additional functional components than depicted in FIG. 1. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more components of the network architecture 100 may perform functions described as being performed by one or more other components of the network architecture 100.

[0071] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram 200 of the system 108 configured for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with the FIG. 1.

[0072] In an embodiment, the system 108 may include one or more processor(s) 202. The one or more processor(s) 202 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the one or more processor(s) 202 may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 204 of the system 108. The memory 204 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 204 may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as a Random-Access Memory (RAM), or a non-volatile memory such as an Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), a flash memory, and the like.

[0073] In an embodiment, the system 108 may include an interface(s) 206. The interface(s) 206 may include a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and output devices (VO), storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) 206 may facilitate communication through the system 108. The interface(s) 206 may also provide a communication pathway for one or more components of the system 108. Examples of such components include, but are not limited to, a processing engine 208 and a database 210.

[0074] In an embodiment, the processor(s) 202 may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the gNodeB (gNB) scheduler 208. In examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processor(s) 202 may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the gNB scheduler 208 may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machine-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processor(s) 202. In such examples, the system 108 may comprise the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but accessible to the system 108 and the processing resource. In other examples, the processor(s) 202 may be implemented by electronic circuitry. In an aspect, the processor(s) 202 may be implemented within the gNB scheduler to trigger switching of the MCS table, as explained in FIG. 3.

[0075] In good radio conditions, the UE 104 may use a normal MCS table (such as a 64QAM MCS table or a 256 QAM MCS table) to define the code rate and spectral efficiency for downlink and uplink data transmissions. The normal MCS table may be one of a MCS table 1 and MCS table 2. The code rate and spectral efficiency are defined in an index of an MCS table as explained in detail in FIG. 5. Further, the index to be used for the MCS table may be predefined or may be accessed from the database 210. In some embodiments, the MCS index may be decided based on a code rate and prevailing radio conditions. In an embodiment, the database 210 may store the MCS tables, such as the normal MCS table and the low SE MCS table, which may be accessed by the UE 104 for data transmission based on the radio conditions. In an embodiment, the UE 104 may use a higher MCS index of the MCS table corresponding to a higher code rate in good radio conditions and a lower MCS index of the MCS table corresponding to a lower code rate in poor radio conditions.

[0076] In an embodiment, the gNB scheduler 208 is configured to access a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Each of the MCS table 1, the MCS table 2, and the MCS table 3 includes a plurality of entries. Each entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order, a target code rate, and a spectral efficiency. The MCS table 3 includes one or more entries having spectral efficiencies lower than spectral efficiencies of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2.

[0077] Further, the gNB scheduler 208 is configured to determine whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. The first predefined MCS index threshold associated with one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2 is configured at the gNB scheduler 208. The MCS table 1 and MCS table 2 is used when the UE 104 is in a good network condition. The gNB scheduler 208 is also responsible for continuously monitoring the radio conditions of the UE 104. In simple words, if the current MCSindex falls below the first predefined MCS index threshold, it indicates that the network conditions are deteriorating.

[0078] Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the gNB scheduler 208 is configured to determine whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. The predefined time period includes a switching time for switching from the selected MCS table to the MCS table 3 and the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2. The switching time may include 2000 milliseconds. The predefined time period represents a minimum time the MCS index must remain below the first predefined MCS index threshold to trigger a switch of the MCS table 1 and MCS table 2. In an embodiment, sometimes fluctuations in the MCS index may occur due to transient issues such as brief interference or fading. Hence, the predefined time period ensures that switches are only triggered for sustained poor conditions.

[0079] In an embodiment, the gNB scheduler 208 is configured to trigger a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. The DCI is transmitted from the base station to the UE 104 via the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) and provides the UE 104 with the necessary scheduling and configuration information for data transmission on the downlink and uplink. In an embodiment, the base station may be a radio transmitter and receiver that connects the UE 104 to the network 106. The base station may be divided into multiple cells or sectors to cover a larger area. Each cell operates on different frequencies and covers a specific geographical area. In particular, the DCI specifies one or more Physical Resource Blocks (PRBs) allocated to the UE 104 for downlink or uplink data transmission. Further, the DCI informs the UE 104 about the MCS table to be used for data transmission.

[0080] In an embodiment, the MCS table 3 is a low spectral efficiency (low-SE) MCS table configured for maintaining service continuity in poor radio conditions such as cell-edge, deep indoor, high interference, fast fading, where operation with the normal MCS table 1 / MCS table 2 may reach a minimum MCS index and still experience elevated BLER or repeated HARQ retransmissions. After the gNB scheduler 208 triggers the DCI to switch to the MCS table 3, the gNB scheduler 208 may select a preconfigured MCS index in table 3 to “stabilize” the link suchas, a conservative entry such as index 3 with target code rate 99^1024 and low SE. Further, the gNB scheduler 208 may continue link adaptation within MCS table 3, including stepping down toward a lowest MCS index (e.g., index 0) if radio conditions further degrade, or stepping up within the MCS table 3 if conditions improve.

[0081] Further, the gNB scheduler 208 is configured to utilize a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE. Further, the gNB scheduler 208 may determine whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3. The second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 is configured at the gNB scheduler 208. Upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, the gNB scheduler 208 may determine whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period. Upon determining, the gNB scheduler 208 may trigger the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2. In some embodiments, the gNB scheduler 208 may utilize a configured MCS index of the switched MCS table. By utilizing the preconfigured MCS index from the MCS table 3 combined with the predefined target code rate, the gNB scheduler 208 optimizes the trade-off between reliability and throughput. The predefined target code rate is usually the lowest code rate of the normal MCS table.

[0082] In an embodiment, the target code rate may be a coding-rate parameter associated with the selected MCS table, indicative of a proportion of information (payload) bits relative to total coded bits after channel coding for a transport block. In an embodiment, the target code rate is represented as a rational value R, where 0 < R < 1, and a lower target code rate corresponds to stronger forward error correction (i.e., more redundancy) and higher robustness in poor radio conditions, while a higher target code rate corresponds to less redundancy and higher spectral efficiency in good radio conditions. The target code rate is signalled / represented in the MCS tables as an integer (Rx 1024), and the target code rate is obtained as R = (Rx 1024) / 1024. In such an embodiment, each MCS table entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order (Qm) and a target code rate (Rxl024), and a correspondingspectral efficiency value. In an exemplary embodiment, the target code rate representation include R*1024 = 30 corresponds to R ~ 30 / 1024 ~ 0.029, which represents a very low code rate (high redundancy) suitable for low spectral efficiency operation (e.g., low-SE MCS table), R*1024 = 99 corresponds to R ~ 99 / 1024 ~ 0.097, which represents a low code rate enabling robust decoding under poor radio conditions (for example, an entry in the low-SE table), etc.

[0083] Upon switching to the MCS table 3, the gNB scheduler 208 may continue to schedule for the UE using the preconfigured MCS index down to a lowest MCS index of the MCS table 3. Further, the gNB scheduler 208 may continue to serve the data and voice services on the same cell in poor radio conditions. The Low SE MCS table helps the UE 104 to decode the data transmission even for cell edge users by using low code rates.

[0084] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary system architecture 300 configured for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is explained in conjunction with FIGs.1 and 2.

[0085] In an embodiment, the system 300 includes the UE 104, a gNodeB (interchangeably referred to as the base station) 302, and the network 106 (interchangeably referred to as 5G core). The UE 104 communicates with the gNodeB 302 through a wireless interface, facilitating uplink and downlink communication. Further, the gNodeB 302 includes three main physical entities such as the Physical Layer (PHY or Layer 1) 304, a Distributed Unit (DU) 306, and a Centralized Unit (CU) 308. The PHY 304 is divided into two sections such as a Low PHY 310 and a High PHY 312. The Low PHY 310, handles the physical transmission and reception of uplink signals over an air interface. The High PHY 312 is responsible for signal processing tasks such as channel estimation, decoding, and error correction.

[0086] In an embodiment, the DU 306 includes a Radio Link Control (RLC) 314, a Medium Access Control (MAC) 316 and a schedular 318 (analogous to the gNB scheduler 208). The RLC 314 handles segmentation, reassembly, and retransmission of data packets to ensure reliable communication. The MAC 316 manages resource allocation, scheduling, and prioritization of communication tasks. Furthermore, the scheduler 318 acts as the decision-making engine forallocating uplink and downlink resources to the UE 104 based on network conditions and system requirements. In an embodiment, the scheduler 318 triggers the switching of the MCS table based on one or conditions. The one or more conditions may include, but are not limited to, the index of the MCS table, the time period an index of the MCS table is sustained at the index lower than the predefined threshold index, etc. A communication link connects the High PHY 312 to the scheduler 318, enabling the exchange of one or more signal parameters, such as the index of the MCS, for the detection of fulfilment of the one or more conditions.

[0087] In an embodiment, the CU 308 includes a Radio Resource Control (RRC) 320, a Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) 322 and a Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) 324. The RRC 320 handles control plane signalling between the UE 104 and the network 106, including mobility management and connection setup. The SDAP 322 manages the mapping of Quality of Service (QoS) flows to data radio bearers, ensuring QoS compliance for user traffic. Additionally, the PDCP 324 performs header compression, encryption, and reordering of data packets for efficient transmission. A communication link between the MAC 316 and the PDCP 324 ensures coordinated data flow from the DU 306 to the CU 308.

[0088] In an embodiment, the system 300 dynamically switches the normal MCS table to the low SE MCS table when the user 102 is in bad network condition, and the low SE MCS table to the normal MCS table when the user 102 is in good network condition. The low PHY 310 in the PHY 310 captures the index and time period of the MCS table. The index and time period of the MCS table are communicated to the scheduler 318 in the DU 306 via the High PHY 312. The scheduler 318 further analyses the index and time period of the MCS table and determines the need to switch the MCS table based on pre-defined thresholds for the index and the time period of the MCS table. Upon detecting the need to switch the MCS table, the scheduler 318 may instruct the MAC 316 to switch the MCS table based on the determination. Further, the MAC 316 coordinates with the PDCP 324 to ensure the data flows continue without disruption.

[0089] The CU 308 components, particularly the SDAP 322 and the RRC 320, ensure that the system 300 remains compliant with the QoS requirements and maintains connectivity with the network 106, enabling seamless adaptation to network conditions and sustains high-quality service for the UE 104.

[0090] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary process flow 400 for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with FIGs. 1, 2, and 3.

[0091] At step 402, a user (e.g. user 102) may use voice or data services with good network conditions. The UE 104 of the user 102 may use the normal MCS table in good network conditions. In an aspect, the normal MCS table may be a 256 QAM SE MCS table with a high code rate to take benefit of good network conditions, as more data may be transferred using higher code rates and high SE.

[0092] At step 404, the index of the normal MCS table is compared with the predefined index threshold ‘X’ of the MCS table. The index of the normal MCS table corresponds to a combination of the code rate and the spectral efficiency used by the UE 104. Further, if the index of the normal MCS table is found to be more than the predefined index threshold of the MCS table, the user 102 may continue to use voice or data services with good network conditions.

[0093] At step 406, if the index of the normal MCS table is found to be less than the predefined index threshold of normal MCS table, the scheduler 318 may check if the index of the normal MCS table remains less than the predefined index threshold of the MCS table for more than a predefined time period threshold (e.g., 2000ms). Further, if the index of the normal MCS table is not sustained for more than the predefined time period threshold, the user 102 may continue to use the voice or data services with good network conditions, i.e., using the normal MCS table.

[0094] At step 408, if the index of the normal MCS table remains less for more than the predefined time period threshold, the scheduler 318 may switch the normal MCS table to the Low SE MCS table. In an embodiment, the UE 104 may use an index of the Low SE MCS table that corresponds to a code rate lower than that of the index threshold of the normal MCS table. In an embodiment, the Low SE MCS table may be a 64 QAM SE MCS table with a low code rate. The low code rate ensures that data is transferred in poor radio conditions.

[0095] At step 410, the user 102 may use the voice and data services with the Low SE MCS table in poor radio conditions. In an embodiment, without limiting the scope of the invention, the UE 104 may use index 5 of the Low SE MCS table with a target code rate of 99. Further, during switching time if the radio conditionsbecome worse, the UE 104 may keep decrementing the index of the Low SE MCS table (such as index 4, then 3, then 2, and so on) to keep the code rate low.

[0096] At step 412, the index of the Low SE MCS table is compared with the predefined index threshold of the MCS table. The index of the Low SE MCS table corresponds to a combination of the code rate and the spectral efficiency used by the UE 104 in poor radio conditions. Further, if the index of the Low SE MCS table is found to be less than the predefined index threshold of the MCS table, the user 102 may continue to use the voice or data services in poor radio conditions, i.e., using the normal Low SE MCS table.

[0097] At step 414, if the index of the Low SE MCS table is found to be more than the predefined index threshold of the MCS table, the scheduler 318 may check if the index of the Low SE MCS table remains more than the predefined index threshold of the MCS table for more than the predefined time period threshold. Further, if the Low SE MCS table index does not sustain for more than the predefined time period threshold, the user 102 may continue to use the voice or data services with poor radio conditions.

[0098] At step 416, if the index of the Low SE MCS table sustains for more than the predefined time period threshold, the scheduler 318 may switch the Low SE MCS table to the normal MCS table. In an embodiment, the UE 104 may use an index of the normal MCS table that corresponds to the code rate more than that of the predefined index threshold of the MCS table.

[0099] In an exemplary embodiment, if a user experiences poor radio condition at any moment and the MCS goes down continuously due to link adaptation, the user may not sustain the normal MCS table further at the minimum MCS (MCS index 0) of the normal SE table. Thus, the schedular of the system 108 triggers the DCI to switch the normal MCS table to the Low SE MCS table. Further, to switch the normal MCS table to the Low SE table, the system 108 may determine if the MCS index of the current (Normal) MCS table is less than the pre-defined index threshold of the MCS table. Further, the system 108 may determine if the normal MCS table is sustained for the pre-defined switching timer period. Upon determination, the system 108 may trigger the scheduler to switch to the Low SE MCS table.

[0100] According to the present disclosure, upon switching on the Low SE MCS table, the user, such as the user 102, uses an index 5 of the Low SE MCS table withtarget code rate of 99 to take the benefit of the Low SE table, which is not present in the normal MCS table. In an embodiment, the pre-defined index threshold and the predefined time period threshold are configured at the scheduler. The user may continue to use the voice / data services with the low SE MCS table in poor radio conditions with the lowest code rate of 30 if radio conditions become further worse.

[0101] In an embodiment, if the user experiences good network conditions and the Low SE MCS table index goes up continuously due to link adaptation and reaches greater than the MCS table index 5 (decision MCS table index threshold) of the Low SE MCS table and the index of the Low SE MCS table sustains for a configured switching time period, then the scheduler may trigger the DCI to switch the Low SE MCS table to the normal MCS table. Further, the user uses the normal MCS table index 1 when switching from the low SE MCS table to the Normal MCS table. However, the MCS index is configurable, and the users may be switched to any MCS index based on the radio conditions. Further, the user may continue to use voice / data services in the good network conditions.

[0102] FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary MCS tables 500 used for switching in the network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is explained in conjunction with FIGs. 1, 2, 3, and 4. In an embodiment, the MCS tables 500 may include a 64 Quadrature Amplitude Module Modulation and Coding Scheme (QAM MCS) table (MCS table 1) 502, a 256 QAM MCS table (MCS table 2) 504, and a Low SE 64 QAM MCS table (also referred to as Low SE MCS table or MCS table 3) 506. The 64 QAM MCS table (MCS table 1) 502 and the 256 QAM MCS table (MCS table 2) 504 are analogous to the normal MCS table (MCS table 3). The markers “A” and “B” represent continuation points, indicating that the MCS table 1, MCS table 2, and MCS table 3 are linked together.

[0103] In an embodiment, the MCS tables 500 may include a column of MCS index, a modulation order, a code rate, and a spectral efficiency. The index of the MCS table represents a unique combination of the code rate and the spectral efficiency. The code rate is the ratio of useful information bits to the total number of transmitted bits in a transmission between the UE 104 and the network 106. The Low SE 64 QAM MCS table 506 tends to have a lower code rate than the 64 QAM MCS table 502 and the 256 QAM MCS table 504, ensuring signal transmission in poor radio conditions.

[0104] In an embodiment, the MCS table 1 502 corresponds to an MCS index table configured for baseline / normal spectral efficiency operation such as, supporting modulation orders up to 64QAM. The MCS table 1 502 provides a widely applicable default operating range for scheduling and link adaptation across varying channel conditions, enabling the gNB scheduler 208 to select an appropriate MCS index for maintaining target BLER while providing efficient throughput under typical radio conditions.

[0105] In an embodiment, the MCS table 2504 corresponds to an MCS index table configured for higher spectral efficiency operation such as, supporting modulation orders up to 256QAM. The MCS table 2 504 enables the gNB scheduler 208 to exploit good radio conditions such as, high SINR / high CQI by selecting higher MCS indices with higher modulation order and / or higher coding rate, providing improved peak throughput and better resource utilization when the channel quality permits.

[0106] In an embodiment, the MCS table 3 506 corresponds to a low spectral efficiency (low-SE) MCS index table. The MCS table 3 506 introduces additional low-SE entries (for example, QPSK with lower target code rates) that are not available or are insufficiently low in MCS table 1 502 and MCS table 2 504, enabling continued scheduling and service continuity in poor radio conditions, such as cell-edge or deep indoor scenarios, where the UE may otherwise remain pinned at the lowest MCS index of a normal table with persistent decoding failures and / or excessive retransmissions.

[0107] In an embodiment, the gNB scheduler 208 selects between MCS table 1 502 and MCS table 2 504 during normal operation based on configuration and / or radio conditions and dynamically switches to MCS table 3 506 when the UE 104 is observed to operate persistently below a configured threshold such as, when the current MCS index remains in a low region for a predefined time period. Upon improvement of radio conditions, the gNB scheduler 208 switches back from MCS table 3 506 to one of MCS table 1 502 and MCS table 2 504, restoring higher spectral efficiency operation while avoiding oscillatory switching through the use of thresholds and timers.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, if the UE 104 is connected to the network 106 in good network conditions, the network 106 may use the normal MCS table.However, if the UE 104 moves to poor radio conditions, the connection between the UE 104 and the network 106 may not be established. The network 106 may be using the index 0 of the normal MCS table in poor radio condition, as index 0 has lowest code rate. The network 106 may then determine that the index 0 of the normal MCS table is less than the predefined index threshold (e.g., 1) of the MCS table . Further, the network 106 may check if the index 0 sustains for a predefined time period threshold. If the index 0 sustains for the predefined time period threshold, the network 106 may trigger the DCI to switch the normal MCS table to the low SE MCS table. The DCI is the control message transmitted from the base station such as gNB in 5G to the UE 104 in the downlink to manage and optimize the communication process. Further, the DCI carries essential information about resource allocation, scheduling, and transmission parameters, enabling efficient utilization of network resources. The UE 104 further utilizes the index 5 of the Low SE MCS table, as index 5 has a lesser code rate than the lowest index 0 of the normal MCS table. In an embodiment, if the UE 104 moves back into good network conditions, the network 106 may dynamically switch to the normal MCS table.

[0109] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for dynamically switching the MCS table in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is explained in conjunction with FIGs. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

[0110] At step 602, a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2 is accessed. Each of the MCS table 1, the MCS table 2, and the MCS table 3 includes a plurality of entries. Each entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order, a target code rate, and a spectral efficiency, and the MCS table 3 includes one or more entries having spectral efficiencies lower than spectral efficiencies of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the UE may initially be scheduled using MCS table 2 with an MCS index that reflects good radio conditions (e.g., higher code rate / higher spectral efficiency).[oni] At step 604, whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table is determined. The first predefined MCS index threshold associated with one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2 is configured at the gNB scheduler. In an exemplary embodiment, when radio conditions degrade such as, the UE approaches a cell edge orexperiences shadow fading), link adaptation progressively reduces the MCS, and the scheduler observes that the MCS index reaches a low boundary region (e.g., near index 0 of the normal table).

[0112] Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, at step 606, whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period is determined. The predefined time period includes a switching time for switching from the selected MCS table to the MCS table 3 and the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2. Further, the switching time may include 2000 milliseconds. In an exemplary embodiment, the gNB scheduler may implement a condition such as “x = MCS index 0 of the normal SE table and decision threshold is MCS index 1 and if x is sustained for 2000 ms, proceed to switching.

[0113] Upon determining, at step 608, a Downlink Control Information (DCI) is triggered to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. In an exemplary embodiment, the DCI may be transmitted over PDCCH and is interpreted by the UE to apply the low SE table for subsequent scheduling grants (DL and / or UL), thereby enabling continued service operation in poor radio conditions.

[0114] At step 610, a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate is utilized to provide one or more services to the UE. Further, whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 is determined. The second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 is configured at the gNB scheduler. Upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period is determined. Upon determining, the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2 is triggered. Upon switching from the MCS table 3 to one of the MCS table 1 and the MCS table 2, a configured MCS index of the switched MCS table is utilized. In an exemplary embodiment, upon switching to the low SE table, the UE is scheduled using MCS index 5 of table 3 with target code rate 99, because such low SE operating pointsmay not be available in the normal SE tables and may improve decidability under poor coverage.

[0115] In an embodiment, upon switching to the MCS table 3, the method may include continue scheduling for the UE using the preconfigured MCS index down to a lowest MCS index of the MCS table 3. In an exemplary embodiment, if link adaptation improves and the low SE table MCS increases above the decision threshold (around index 5 for table 3) and is sustained for 2000 ms, the scheduler triggers DCI to switch back to a normal SE table. Upon switching, the UE may be resumed at a configured index (e.g., index 1 of the normal table). It should be noted that the configured index is configurable.

[0116] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary computer system 700 in which or with which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 7, the computer system 700 may include an external storage device 710, a bus 720, a main memory 730, a read-only memory 740, a mass storage device 750, communication port(s) 760, and a processor 770. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer system 700 may include more than one processor and communication ports. The processor 770 may include various modules associated with embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication port(s) 760 may be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem-based dialup connection, a 10 / 100 Ethernet port, a Gigabit or 10 Gigabit port using copper or fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or other existing or future ports. The communication port(s) 760 may be chosen depending on a network, such a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or any network to which the computer system 700 connects.

[0117] The main memory 730 may be a Random Access Memory (RAM), or any other dynamic storage device commonly known in the art. The read-only memory 740 may be any static storage device(s) e.g., but not limited to, a Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) chips for storing static information e.g., start-up or Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) instructions for the processor 770. The mass storage device 750 may be any current or future mass storage solution, which can be used to store information and / or instructions. Exemplary mass storage device 750 includes, but is not limited to, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drives or solid-state drives (internal or external, e.g., having Universal Serial Bus (USB)and / or Firewire interfaces), one or more optical discs, Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) storage, e.g. an array of disks.

[0118] The bus 720 communicatively couples the processor 770 with the other memory, storage, and communication blocks. The bus 720 may be, e.g. a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) / PCI Extended (PCI-X) bus, Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Universal Serial Bus (USB), or the like, for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems as well as other buses, such a front side bus (FSB), which connects the processor 770 to the computer system 700.

[0119] Optionally, operator and administrative interfaces, e.g. a display, keyboard, joystick, and a cursor control device, may also be coupled to the bus 720 to support direct operator interaction with the computer system. Other operator and administrative interfaces can be provided through network connections connected through the communication port(s) 760. Components described above are meant only to exemplify various possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned exemplary computer system 700 limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0120] In an embodiment, the disclosure provides a method for dynamically switching modulation and coding scheme (MCS) table in a network. The method includes accessing a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the method further include determining whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the method includes determining whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the method includes triggering a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the method includes utilizing a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0121] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network is described. The system includes a gNodeB (gNB) scheduler configured to access a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selectedfrom one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the gNB scheduler is configured to determine whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the gNB scheduler is configured to determine whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the gNB scheduler is configured to trigger a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the gNB scheduler is configured to utilize a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0122] In yet another embodiment, a computer program product including a non-transitory computer-readable medium including instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network is disclosed. The method includes accessing a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 and a MCS table 2. Further, the method further include determining whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table. Upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, the method includes determining whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period. Upon determining, the method includes triggering a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3. Further, the method includes utilizing a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE.

[0123] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art tomake and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

[0124] The method and system of the present disclosure may be implemented in a number of ways. For example, the methods and systems of the present disclosure may be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The above-described order for the steps of the method is for illustration only, and the steps of the method of the present disclosure are not limited to the order specifically described above unless specifically stated otherwise. Further, in some embodiments, the present disclosure may also be embodied as programs recorded in a recording medium, the programs including machine-readable instructions for implementing the methods according to the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure also covers a recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to the present disclosure.

[0125] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be implemented merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0126] Dynamic MCS Table Switching Mechanism: The present disclosure uses Downlink Control Information (DCI) signalling to dynamically switch between normal Spectral Efficiency (SE) Modulation and coding Scheme (MCS) table and low SE MCS Table, addressing the limitations of static MCS table usage in current systems.

[0127] Enhanced Scheduler Intelligence: The present disclosure integrates realtime decision-making capabilities in the gNB scheduler to evaluate switching criteria such as sustained MCS thresholds and timer duration for triggering table switching dynamically.

[0128] Improved Service Continuity in Poor Radio Conditions: The present disclosure ensures uninterrupted data and voice services for users in challengingradio environments, such as those at the cell edge, by utilizing low-code-rate MCS configurations.

[0129] Adaptability for Uplink and Downlink: The present disclosure introduces a unified mechanism that supports dynamic MCS table switching for both uplink and downlink communications, enhancing system reliability across diverse scenarios.

[0130] Optimal Spectral Efficiency Management: The present disclosure prevents unnecessary use of low SE MCS tables in favourable conditions, thereby maximizing spectral resource utilization and improving network performance.

[0131] Configurable Switching Parameters: The present disclosure allows flexibility in defining MCS thresholds and timer durations for switching decisions, making the solution adaptable to various deployment scenarios and network policies.

[0132] User centric Service Enhancement: The present disclosure specifically benefits cell-edge users by enabling them to maintain connectivity and service quality even in adverse radio conditions.

Claims

CLAIMSWe Claim:

1. A method (600) for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network (106), the method (600) comprising:accessing (602), by a gNB scheduler (208), a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) (104) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 (502) and a MCS table 2 (504);determining (604), by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table;upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, determining (606), by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period;upon determining, triggering (608), by the gNB scheduler (208), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3 (506); andutilizing (610), by the gNB scheduler (208), a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506) with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE (104).

2. The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the MCS table 1 (502), the MCS table 2 (504), and the MCS table 3 (506) comprises a plurality of entries, wherein each entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order, a target code rate, and a spectral efficiency, and wherein the MCS table 3 (506) comprises one or more entries having spectral efficiencies lower than spectral efficiencies of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504).

3. The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:upon switching to the MCS table 3 (506), continue scheduling, by the gNB scheduler (208), for the UE (104) using the preconfigured MCS index down to a lowest MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506).

4. The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, utilizing the preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506), further comprising:determining, by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 (506);upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, determining, by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period; andupon determining, triggering, by the gNB scheduler (208), the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504).

5. The method (600) as claimed in claim 4, further comprising:upon switching from the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504), utilizing a configured MCS index of the switched MCS table.

6. The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first predefined MCS index threshold associated with one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504) and the second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 (506) are configured at the gNB scheduler (208).

7. The method (600) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:the predefined time period comprises a switching time for switching from the selected MCS table to the MCS table 3 (506) and the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504), andthe switching time comprises 2000 milliseconds.

8. A system (108) for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network (106), the system (108) comprising:a gNodeB scheduler (208) configured to:access a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) (104) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 (502) and a MCS table 2 (504);determine whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table;upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, determine whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period;upon determining, trigger a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3 (506); andutilize a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506) with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE (104).

9. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein each of the MCS table 1 (502), the MCS table 2 (504), and the MCS table 3 (506) comprises a plurality of entries, wherein each entry maps an MCS index to a modulation order, a target code rate, and a spectral efficiency, and wherein the MCS table 3 (506) comprises one or more entries having spectral efficiencies lower than spectral efficiencies of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504).

10. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein upon switching to the MCS table 3 (506), the gNB scheduler (208) is configured to continue schedule for the UE (104) using the preconfigured MCS index down to a lowest MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506).

11. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein to utilize the preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506), the gNB scheduler (208) is configured to:determine whether the preconfigured MCS index is higher than a second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 (506);upon determining that the preconfigured MCS index is higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold, determine whether the preconfigured MCS index remains higher than the second predefined MCS index threshold for at least the predefined time period; andupon determining, trigger the DCI to switch the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504).

12. The system (108) as claimed in claim 11, wherein upon switching from the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504), the gNB scheduler (208) is configured to utilize a configured MCS index of the switched MCS table.

13. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the first predefined MCS index threshold associated with one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504) and the second predefined MCS index threshold associated with the MCS table 3 (506) are configured at the gNB scheduler (208).

14. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the predefined time period comprises a switching time for switching from the selected MCS table to the MCS table 3 (506) and the MCS table 3 (506) to one of the MCS table 1 (502) and the MCS table 2 (504), and the switching time comprises 2000 milliseconds.

15. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method (600) for dynamically switching Modulation And Coding Scheme (MCS) table in a network (106), the method (600) comprising:accessing (602), by a gNB scheduler (208), a current MCS index associated with scheduling for a User Equipment (UE) (104) using a MCS table selected from one of a MCS table 1 (502) and a MCS table 2 (504);determining (604), by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the current MCS index is lower than a first predefined MCS index threshold associated with the selected MCS table;upon determining that the current MCS index is lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold, determining (606), by the gNB scheduler (208), whether the current MCS index remains lower than the first predefined MCS index threshold for at least a predefined time period;upon determining, triggering (608), by the gNB scheduler (208), a Downlink Control Information (DCI) to switch the selected MCS table to a MCS table 3 (506); andutilizing (610), by the gNB scheduler (208), a preconfigured MCS index of the MCS table 3 (506) with a predefined target code rate to provide one or more services to the UE (104).

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