Common Search Space Configuration for 5G Downlink Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In next-generation/5G radio access networks, there is a need to configure downlink control channels to transmit/receive scheduling control information based on time/frequency resources that differ for each user equipment, posing a challenge in meeting the requirements of various usage scenarios such as enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine-type communication, and ultra-reliable and low-latency communication.
Innovation Solution
The method involves configuring a common search space (CSS) for transmitting cell-specific downlink control information, where configuration information is included in a master information block (MIB) received from a base station through a physical broadcast channel (PBCH), allowing user equipment to receive and base stations to transmit scheduling information for remaining minimum system information (RMSI) through this CSS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a common search space is configured to transmit cell-specific downlink control information, then scheduling control information can be transmitted to user equipment, but the system must support flexible time/frequency resources for different usage scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the common search space configuration adaptable to different numerologies (subcarrier spacings) and usage scenarios. The base station dynamically configures CSS parameters including time/frequency resources, aggregation levels, and DCI formats based on the specific scenario requirements (eMBB, mMTC, or URLLC), allowing the system to transition between different operational states rather than using fixed configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing different numerologies (subcarrier spacings of 15kHz, 30kHz, 60kHz, 120kHz) to be configured for different usage scenarios. The CSS configuration parameters such as monitoring occasions, resource blocks, and DCI payload sizes are adjusted according to the selected numerology and scenario, enabling the system to optimize performance for enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine-type communication, or ultra-reliable low-latency communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different numerologies are supported for different usage scenarios, then various 5G requirements can be met, but the configuration and management of downlink control channels becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the downlink control channel configuration into scenario-specific segments. Each usage scenario (eMBB, mMTC, URLLC) has its own configured numerology and CSS parameters. The base station segments the control resource allocation by assigning different subcarrier spacings and monitoring configurations to different scenarios, allowing independent optimization without requiring the entire system to accommodate all complexities simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a common search space configuration mechanism that can serve multiple usage scenarios through a unified framework. The same CSS configuration procedures and DCI formats are used across different scenarios, with only the numerical parameters (subcarrier spacing, bandwidth, timing) being adjusted. This multi-functional approach allows the system to handle diverse requirements using a single adaptable configuration system rather than separate dedicated systems for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method and an apparatus for transmitting or receiving a downlink control channel in a next generation/5G wireless access network. The method includes receiving configuration information relating to a common search space (CSS) from a base station and receiving, through the common search space, a downlink control channel including information for scheduling remaining minimum system information (RMSI), wherein the configuration information is included in a master information block (MIB) received through a physical broadcast channel and is received from the base station.