Dynamic Antenna Polarization Configuration for Non-Terrestrial Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

In non-terrestrial networks, there is a challenge in ensuring that antenna polarization between base stations, satellites, and user equipment is compatible to maintain effective communication performance and reliability, particularly due to varying antenna polarizations on different user equipment types.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves a method and apparatus where user equipment and base stations can receive and transmit antenna polarization indications, allowing them to adjust their polarizations to match those of the base stations and satellites, using indications in system information, RRC messages, MAC control elements, or DCI, and configuring polarizations for specific transmissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If satellite implements active antennas with configurable polarization to communicate with different UE types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna polarization compatibilityVSAvoidantenna polarization configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic antenna polarization configuration where the gNB can switch between different polarization schemes (first and second polarization schemes) based on UE type and communication requirements. The system dynamically adjusts polarization settings through RRC messages and DCI indications rather than using fixed static configurations, enabling adaptability to different UE types while managing complexity through controlled dynamic behavior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the polarization parameter configuration by introducing multiple polarization schemes with different parameters. The gNB configures different polarization settings (e.g., circular polarization, linear polarization) depending on the UE type, and uses RRC parameters to indicate which polarization scheme to apply. This parameter-based approach allows flexible adaptation without requiring complex hardware reconfiguration for each UE type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If gNB uses fixed antenna polarization scheme, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different UE types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantenna polarization managementVSAvoidUE polarization compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the communication system into different polarization schemes (first polarization scheme and second polarization scheme) tailored to different UE types. Instead of using a single unified polarization approach, the system divides the polarization management into distinct schemes, each optimized for specific UE categories. This segmentation allows the gNB to select appropriate polarization schemes based on UE type, achieving adaptability without requiring complex per-UE customization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal polarization management system where the gNB can apply different polarization schemes to serve multiple UE types universally. The first polarization scheme can serve a first type of UE while the second polarization scheme serves a second type of UE, making the overall system universally applicable to diverse UE categories without requiring separate dedicated configurations for each type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If antenna polarization is not matched between gNB and UE, then communication simplicity is maintained, but communication performance deteriorates due to polarization mismatch losses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication setupVSAvoidcommunication link robustness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the gNB indicates to the UE which polarization scheme should be used through RRC messages and DCI. The UE receives polarization configuration information from the gNB and adjusts its antenna polarization accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that both gNB and UE are synchronized on the polarization settings, preventing polarization mismatch losses while maintaining relatively simple operation through standardized signaling procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by configuring the UE with polarization scheme information before actual data transmission begins. The gNB sends RRC messages containing polarization configuration parameters in advance, and the UE prepares its antenna polarization settings beforehand. This preliminary configuration ensures that when communication starts, both sides are already aligned on polarization settings, avoiding performance degradation from mismatch without requiring complex real-time adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20230353230A1Apparatus and method of wireless communication
Publication Date: 2023.11.02 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • US20230353230A1 patent drawing
  • US20230353230A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of wireless communication is provided. The method by a user equipment (UE) includes performing communication, by the UE with a base station, wherein the communication comprises that the UE is configured to receive, from the base station, a first indication comprising an antenna polarization used by the base station and/or a satellite to transmit and/or receive a transmission; and/or the UE is configured to receive, from the base station, a second indication comprising the antenna polarization used by the UE to transmit and/or receive a transmission. A UE and a base station are further provided.