Wireless Control Channel Resource Element Group Forward Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communications systems face challenges in designing a control channel that is flexible enough to support new characteristics and services in future communications systems, limiting compatibility with existing terminal devices.
Innovation Solution
A method for sending and receiving control information using a resource element group that includes a first resource element for carrying downlink control information and a second resource element for carrying a reference signal, allowing demodulation of the downlink control information based on the reference signal, thereby enabling the use of time-frequency resources for future unknown services and ensuring compatibility with current terminal devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the control channel uses a fixed resource element allocation, then the system maintains stability and simplicity, but it cannot support future new characteristics and services
Solution Approach 1:
The control channel resource elements are segmented into multiple resource element groups, where each group can be independently configured. This allows the system to maintain a basic stable structure while enabling flexible allocation of specific segments for future services without redesigning the entire control channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The resource element groups are designed to serve multiple functions - they can carry downlink control information for existing services while also being configurable to support future unknown services. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to adapt to evolving requirements without requiring separate dedicated resources.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control channel allocates more resources for flexibility, then future services can be supported, but compatibility with existing terminal devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The resource element group configuration is made dynamic rather than static. The network can adjust the allocation and mapping of resource element groups based on service requirements while maintaining a consistent interface with terminal devices. This dynamic adaptation allows flexibility for future services without breaking compatibility with existing devices that expect the same basic structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the reference signal is separated from control information, then time-frequency resources can be flexibly used for future services, but the demodulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resource element group acts as an intermediary structure that organizes both control information and reference signals. By grouping them together with defined relationships, the system enables flexible resource allocation while providing terminal devices with clear rules for demodulation, thus reducing the complexity burden.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method including: determining, by a network device, a resource element group corresponding to a control channel, where the resource element group includes a first resource element for carrying downlink control information and a second resource element for carrying a reference signal, and the reference signal is used to demodulate the downlink control information carried by the resource element group; and sending the downlink control information by using the control channel, wherein resource elements comprised in the resource element group are distributed in all symbols of a time domain resource occupied by the control channel. This provides a possibility of supporting forward compatibility.