Beam Management for Random Access in 5G NR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing random access procedures in 5G NR networks, particularly in determining the optimal beam for message transmission during random access procedures, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where a scheduled entity determines and uses a first and second beam for message transmissions, with a processor adapting to send a message 1 transmission on one beam and monitor for a message 2 transmission on either the same or alternate beams based on a predetermined sequence, ensuring effective communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single beam is used for message transmission during random access procedures, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of communication is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beam management process into distinct phases: message 1 transmission on a first beam, and message 2 monitoring on either the same first beam or a second beam based on predetermined sequences. This segmentation allows the system to maintain multiple beam options without requiring simultaneous complex beam switching, thus improving reliability while controlling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic beam selection where the monitored beam for message 2 can change based on predetermined sequences and conditions. The system can switch between monitoring the first beam or a second beam, creating a dynamic adaptability that improves communication reliability without requiring permanently complex beam management structures.
2Reliability
If multiple beams are monitored for message 2 transmission, then the reliability of random access procedures is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by having the scheduled entity monitor specific beams (first beam or second beam) based on predetermined sequences rather than all available beams continuously. This localized monitoring approach maintains reliability by focusing on relevant beams while reducing overall energy consumption compared to monitoring all beams at all times.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors beams partially - only the first beam or a second beam according to predetermined sequences - rather than exhaustively monitoring all possible beams. This partial action approach maintains sufficient reliability for random access procedures while avoiding the excessive energy consumption that would result from comprehensive beam monitoring.
3Adaptability or versatility
If beam switching is implemented for message transmissions, then the adaptability of the communication system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing predetermined sequences before the random access procedure that define which beams to monitor and when to switch. This pre-planning allows the system to exhibit adaptive beam switching behavior without requiring complex real-time decision-making logic, thus improving adaptability while controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The scheduled entity uses the predetermined sequences to autonomously determine which beams to monitor and when to switch, without requiring complex external control or coordination. This self-service approach enables adaptive beam management while reducing the complexity of inter-device coordination and control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects directed towards communications for random access procedures are disclosed. In one example, a first beam and a second beam may be available for communications between a scheduled entity and a scheduling entity. The scheduling entity may send, and the scheduled entity may receive, a message 1 transmission for a random access procedure on the first beam. The scheduled entity may open a random access response (RAR) window to monitor for a message 2 transmission according to a predetermined sequence designating whether to monitor the first beam, the second beam, or some combination thereof. The scheduling entity may send, and the scheduled entity may receive, the message 2 transmission on the first beam or the second beam as designated by the predetermined sequence. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also included.