Bandwidth Part Switching in 5G NR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Next-generation radio access networks, particularly 5G NR, face challenges in efficiently switching between different bandwidth parts (BWPs) to adapt to varying user equipment (UE) and communication environments, which affects data transmission rates and latency requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring and activating BWPs by transmitting and receiving information on physical layer capabilities, including BWP switching delay types, to dynamically switch between BWPs based on UE-specific and communication environment-specific requirements, using downlink control information (DCI) and scheduling control information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If BWP switching is performed without considering transition time, then bandwidth utilization and data transmission rate are improved, but transmission reliability deteriorates due to incomplete switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by determining the BWP transition time in advance based on the BWP switching delay type before initiating the switching operation. The network device checks whether the current time plus transition time is greater than the target time, and only performs switching when the transition is complete, ensuring reliability while maintaining productivity
2Reliability
If BWP switching delay type information is transmitted and processed, then switching accuracy and reliability are improved, but communication overhead and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing the BWP switching delay type as a configurable parameter that can take different values (first type, second type, etc.). Each type corresponds to a specific transition time, allowing the system to adapt to different UE capabilities and switching scenarios without requiring complex decision logic
3Adaptability or versatility
If BWP switching is performed frequently to adapt to varying communication environments, then adaptability is improved, but switching overhead and time loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the BWP switching decision dynamic rather than static. The network device determines whether to switch BWPs based on real-time communication conditions, UE capabilities, and the calculated transition time. This allows the system to adapt to varying environments while minimizing unnecessary switching operations that would cause time loss
Data Source
AI summary
Provides are a method and apparatus for scheduling a data channel to support a user equipment (UE) using various bandwidth parts (BWPs) in a next-generation/5G radio access network. The method may include transmitting information on physical layer capability, which includes information on a BWP switching delay type; receiving downlink control information (DCI) including a BWP indication field that indicates one BWP different from an active BWP among BWPs included in a BWP set configured for the UE, and scheduling control information for a data channel; activating a BWP indicated by a value of the BWP indication field in consideration of a transition time determined by the information on the BWP switching delay type; and transceiving the data channel according to the scheduling control information.