Propagation Delay Cell Selection for Non-Terrestrial Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication networks, especially non-terrestrial networks, existing cell selection methods face challenges due to large distances and high mobility, leading to inefficiencies in selecting the optimal cell for communication, as traditional methods like reference signal received power (RSRP) may not accurately reflect the best cell for a user equipment (UE) due to small changes in signal power with distance.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using timing information, specifically propagation delay, to select or reselect cells by calculating the difference in timing information received from multiple cells, allowing the UE to choose the best cell based on absolute or relative time-based delay measurements, thereby improving cell selection accuracy in non-terrestrial environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional cell selection methods like RSRP are used, then the selection process is simple, but the accuracy of selecting the optimal cell deteriorates due to small changes in signal power with distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from RSRP (power-based) to timing information (time-based propagation delay). This parameter change enables more accurate cell selection in non-terrestrial networks where signal power changes minimally with distance, while the complexity increase is manageable through standardized timing measurement procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the traditional power-based measurement mechanism with a time-based measurement mechanism. Instead of measuring signal strength (power), the system measures propagation delay (time), which provides better discrimination between cells at large distances with high mobility
2Measurement precision
If timing information based cell selection is used, then cell selection accuracy improves, but the power consumption increases due to additional measurements and calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The timing information measurements performed for cell selection can be reused for other purposes such as random access timing adjustment and uplink synchronization. This multi-functionality reduces the additional power consumption burden by leveraging existing measurement infrastructure
3Reliability
If timing information is used for cell selection in non-terrestrial networks, then communication reliability improves, but the system complexity increases due to need for timing synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces timing advance values as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the timing differences caused by propagation delays and the need for synchronized uplink transmission. This intermediary enables reliable communication without requiring complex real-time synchronization adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE) are described. A UE may receive a first timing information associated with a first cell and a second timing information associated with a second cell. In some examples, the first cell may be associated with a first non-terrestrial device and the second cell may be associated with a second non-terrestrial device. In some examples, the first cell and the second cell may be associated with a common non-terrestrial device. The UE may calculate a propagation delay in accordance with a type of delay measurement and select a cell based on the propagation delay. The UE may calculate a propagation delay in accordance with a type of delay measurement and reselect a cell based on the propagation delay. In some examples, the propagation delay may be based on the first timing information and the second timing information.