5G Terminal Downlink Detection Using Reference Signal Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G communication systems, terminals operating in unlicensed bands cannot determine downlink transmission from base stations, leading to increased power consumption due to unnecessary operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for detecting downlink transmission in 5G systems using configuration information for a reference signal, where the terminal detects the signal on identified resource elements and processes the downlink signal from a control resource set when the reference signal is detected.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the terminal continuously monitors for downlink transmission in unlicensed band, then the reliability of downlink reception is improved, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedownlink reception reliabilityVSAvoidterminal power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal uses its own received signal (reference signal) to detect downlink transmission presence, eliminating the need for separate monitoring mechanisms. The terminal serves itself by processing the reference signal it already receives for other purposes, thereby detecting downlink transmission without additional power consumption for separate monitoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The reference signal serves multiple functions: it is used for both normal downlink reception and for detecting the presence of downlink transmission. By making the reference signal multi-functional, the system avoids needing separate monitoring signals or continuous monitoring operations, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining reliable detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Speed

If the terminal processes downlink signals continuously, then the responsiveness to downlink transmission is improved, but the power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedownlink transmission responsivenessVSAvoidterminal power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous processing, the terminal performs periodic detection by checking the reference signal at specific intervals. This periodic action maintains responsiveness to downlink transmission while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous processing, as the terminal can enter low-power states between detection periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal performs preliminary detection using the reference signal before committing to full downlink signal processing. This preliminary action allows the terminal to quickly determine whether downlink transmission is present, enabling it to skip unnecessary processing when no transmission is detected, thereby improving responsiveness while reducing power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11523398B2Method and apparatus for detecting downlink transmission in wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2022.12.06 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11523398B2 patent drawing
  • US11523398B2 patent drawing
  • US11523398B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a communication technique for convergence of IoT technology and a 5G communication system for supporting a higher data transfer rate beyond a 4G system, and a system therefor. The present disclosure can be applied to intelligent services (for example, smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart or connected cars, health care, digital education, retail business, and services associated with security and safety) on the basis of 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology. The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for detecting downlink transmission in an unlicensed band.