Carrier Aggregation Timing Offset for Non-Aligned Frame Boundaries
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a method to configure serving cells with different frame start time points in 5G communication systems using carrier aggregation (CA) to enhance transmission rates and adapt to varying frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
A method where a terminal and base station exchange messages to determine slot offset information, allowing the terminal to adjust its timing for non-aligned frame boundaries, enabling carrier aggregation operations across cells with distinct frame start times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If carrier aggregation is configured for serving cells with different frame start time points, then transmission rate is improved, but timing synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a slot offset parameter (k) to adjust the timing relationship between serving cells with different frame start times. The base station configures different slot offsets for different serving cells, allowing the terminal to correctly determine the timing of each cell relative to the reference cell. This parameter adjustment enables carrier aggregation with different frame structures while maintaining proper synchronization.
2Manufacturing precision
If slot offset information is exchanged between base station and terminal, then frame boundary alignment is achieved, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the slot offset information multi-functional by using it for multiple purposes: (1) determining the timing relationship between serving cells, (2) calculating the frame start time of non-reference cells based on the reference cell, and (3) coordinating uplink and downlink transmissions. This universal use of slot offset information reduces the need for separate signaling mechanisms for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If carrier aggregation operates across cells with non-aligned frame boundaries, then adaptability to different frequency bands is improved, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the base station pre-configure slot offset information and frame structure parameters for each serving cell before the terminal begins carrier aggregation operations. The terminal uses these pre-configured parameters to proactively calculate and adjust timing for each cell, ensuring proper synchronization is established in advance rather than reacting to timing conflicts during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. According to the disclosure, a base station may configure serving cells having different frame start time points, using carrier aggregation (CA), for operation of a terminal, and thus can increase the transmission rate of the terminal.