Cyclic Prefix Configuration for Mixed Numerology 5G NR
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Next-Generation/5G radio access network (NR) requires a method to configure and inform the length of the cyclic prefix for user equipment in cells supporting various mixed numerologies, as existing systems struggle to adapt cyclic prefix lengths for different subcarrier spacings.
Innovation Solution
A method where a base station configures distinct cyclic prefix lengths for different subcarrier spacings and transmits these values to user equipment, allowing for flexible configuration and detection of cyclic prefix lengths in cells supporting multiple numerologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single cyclic prefix length is configured for all subcarrier spacings in LTE/LTE-Advanced, then the system structure remains simple, but the system cannot support multiple numerologies required for diverse 5G usage scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cyclic prefix configuration by dividing it into different configurations for different subcarrier spacings. Specifically, it configures a first cyclic prefix length for a first subcarrier spacing (used for synchronization signals) and a second cyclic prefix length for second subcarrier spacings (used for data transmission), allowing each segment to be optimized independently for its specific usage scenario
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different cyclic prefix lengths to different subcarrier spacings based on their specific requirements. The first subcarrier spacing uses a first cyclic prefix length optimized for synchronization signal transmission, while second subcarrier spacings use a second cyclic prefix length optimized for data transmission, making each part have the quality appropriate for its function
2Measurement precision
If the base station configures and transmits cyclic prefix length information for multiple subcarrier spacings, then user equipment can accurately detect and process signals in mixed numerology cells, but the signaling overhead and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the base station pre-configure and transmit the second cyclic prefix length information to user equipment before data transmission occurs. This allows user equipment to have the necessary configuration information ready in advance, enabling accurate detection and processing without requiring complex real-time determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a specific signaling mechanism that carries the second cyclic prefix length information from the base station to user equipment. This intermediary signaling structure efficiently conveys the necessary configuration information without excessive overhead, bridging the gap between base station configuration and user equipment detection
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments relate to a method for configuring a cyclic prefix for a next generation/5G radio access network (referred to as new radio (NR)) about which 3GPP has begun discussions. According to the present embodiments, a base station configures cyclic prefix (CP) lengths for secondary numerology except for reference numerology and sets, through RRC signaling, the values of the CP lengths configured for the secondary numerology, thereby enabling a terminal to detect the CP lengths for the secondary numerology in a cell supporting mixed numerology.