Dynamic Cyclic Prefix Format Switching in Wireless Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems, such as LTE-A and 5G, face challenges in handling cyclic prefixes (CPs) for efficient uplink and downlink transmissions, particularly in adapting CP formats dynamically to optimize communication operations based on channel conditions and network capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A communication device and method that allow for dynamic switching between different CP formats and the use of CPs or their absence in transmission operations, based on control signals received from the base station, enabling flexible communication strategies across various bandwidths and transmission schemes like OFDM and non-OFDM.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed CP format is used for transmission, then device complexity is reduced and operation is simplified, but adaptability to different channel conditions and network capabilities deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to channel conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic CP format switching by introducing control signals that enable the receiver to adaptively select between normal CP and extended CP formats based on current channel conditions and network capabilities, transforming the static CP configuration into a dynamic, adjustable parameter that optimizes performance across varying operational environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the CP format parameter (normal/extended) based on control signals received from the base station, allowing the system to adjust this critical transmission parameter dynamically. This enables optimization of data transmission by selecting appropriate CP lengths according to channel characteristics, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic CP format switching is implemented, then adaptability to channel conditions and network capabilities is improved, but device complexity and control signal processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to channel conditionsVSAvoidcontrol signal processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base station performs preliminary action by determining the appropriate CP format based on channel conditions and network capabilities before transmission, and embeds this information in control signals. This pre-computation and pre-signalization approach shifts complexity to the base station, allowing the user equipment to simply follow instructions rather than independently analyze complex channel conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces control signals as an intermediary mechanism that carries CP format indication information from the base station to the user equipment. This intermediary simplifies the interaction by providing explicit instructions, reducing the need for complex algorithms in the user equipment while maintaining adaptability through the base station's centralized control capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If CP format is adapted based on control signals, then data transmission reliability and bandwidth utilization are improved, but loss of time for control signal reception and processing occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol signal processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the CP format indication with existing control signal structures in the wireless communication system. By combining multiple functions (resource allocation, power control, and CP format indication) into integrated control messages, the system reduces overhead and minimizes additional processing time while ensuring reliable data transmission through adaptive CP selection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3101859B1Device and method of handling cyclic prefixes for wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2020.08.19 HTC CORP
  • EP3101859B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3101859B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3101859B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A communication device of handling at least one cyclic prefix (CP) comprises a storage unit for storing instructions and a processing means coupled to the storage unit. The processing means is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage unit. The instructions comprise performing a first communication operation with a BS according to at least one first CP which has at least one first format; receiving a control signal indicating at least one second CP which has at least one second format or indicating no CP from the BS, wherein the at least one first format is different from the at least one second format; and performing a second communication operation with the BS according to the at least one second CP or using no CP according to the control signal.