Physical Layer DCI Blind Search for Dynamic Transmission Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunication networks face challenges in dynamically adapting transmission modes for user equipment (UE) due to the time-consuming process of processing Radio Resource Control (RRC) messages, which can lead to dropped calls when network conditions change rapidly, especially for UEs in vehicles moving near cell edges.
Innovation Solution
User equipment (UE) can dynamically determine the transmission mode at the physical layer by performing blind searches using different Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats corresponding to supported transmission modes, allowing direct interpretation of radio frames without relying on higher-layer message processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the base station uses RRC message processing to dynamically switch transmission modes, then the transmission mode can be adapted to network conditions, but the switching speed is too slow causing call drops when network conditions change rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transmission mode indication into two parts: a semi-static configuration via RRC messages defining a set of candidate transmission modes, and a dynamic selection via physical layer signaling (DCI formats) that quickly switches between these pre-configured modes. This segmentation allows fast switching without full RRC processing overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple candidate transmission modes through RRC messages before dynamic switching is needed. When fast switching is required, the UE and base station can immediately select from these pre-prepared options using physical layer signaling, avoiding the time-consuming process of configuring new modes on-the-fly.
2Measurement precision
If the UE waits for RRC message processing to determine transmission mode, then accurate transmission mode information is obtained, but communication continuity is broken during rapid network condition changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the base station monitors network conditions and UE performance, then sends physical layer signaling to indicate the appropriate transmission mode from pre-configured options. This closed-loop feedback enables rapid adaptation to changing conditions while maintaining accurate mode selection based on current network state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by enabling transmission mode switching at the physical layer with minimal processing delay, allowing the system to adapt rapidly to changing network conditions. The semi-static RRC configuration provides stability while the physical layer signaling adds the necessary dynamic response capability.
3Productivity
If the base station configures multiple transmission modes dynamically, then optimal throughput is achieved for different signal quality conditions, but the complexity of mode management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of transmission mode configuration from fully dynamic to semi-static, where the set of allowable modes is configured via RRC but the actual mode selection uses simpler physical layer signaling. This parameter change reduces management complexity while preserving the ability to achieve optimal throughput through fast mode switching.
Data Source
AI summary
User equipment (UE) can determine a plurality of Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats that correspond to a plurality of transmission modes supported by a base station. When the UE receives a subframe of a radio frame from the base station, it can perform a blind search at the physical layer for a unique identifier associated with the UE in DCI of the subframe using at least one of the plurality of DCI formats. When the UE determines that the unique identifier was found during the blind search using a particular DCI format, it can identify a particular transmission mode that corresponds to the particular DCI format. The UE can then interpret data for the UE in the subframe according to that particular transmission mode.