Carrier Aggregation Control Data Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing carrier aggregation across multiple radio access technologies (RATs), particularly in minimizing processing time and conserving resources when communicating control data between different RATs, which can lead to increased complexity and resource utilization.
Innovation Solution
The method involves assigning component carriers across different RATs, where control data from one RAT is communicated over the resources of another RAT, using containers, timing, and processing times compatible with the primary RAT to minimize differences and conserve resources, allowing for efficient communication of control data across multiple RATs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If control data from one RAT is communicated over the resources of another RAT, then resource utilization is improved, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control data into different types (MAC control elements, RRC messages, etc.) and processes them through different pathways. Some control data is communicated over the primary RAT while other data can be transmitted over secondary RATs, dividing the control plane functionality to balance resource utilization and processing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (the convergence layer or adaptation layer) that mediates between the control data from one RAT and the transmission resources of another RAT. This intermediary handles the complexity of format conversion, timing alignment, and resource mapping, isolating the complexity from the core control functions while enabling flexible resource utilization
2Loss of energy
If control data is communicated over another RAT's resources, then resource conservation is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring resource allocations, timing relationships, and format mappings between different RATs before actual control data transmission. This includes pre-establishing container structures and timing advance values, which reduces the processing time required during actual control data communication while maintaining resource conservation benefits
3Productivity
If multiple component carriers across different RATs are aggregated, then network performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal control data communication framework that can handle multiple component carriers across different RATs through a unified convergence layer. This layer provides multi-functional capabilities including format adaptation, timing synchronization, and resource mapping that work across LTE, NR, and other RATs, improving network performance while managing device complexity through standardization
Data Source
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AI summary
The described aspects include methods and apparatus for assigning carriers to one or more devices in a wireless network. The method comprises assigning a first set of resources related to a first carrier of a first radio access technology (RAT) to a user equipment (UE). The method further comprises assigning a second set of resources related to a second carrier of a second RAT to the UE and receiving control data for the second set of resources in containers for control data of the first RAT over resources of an uplink carrier assigned for communicating control data of the first RAT.