Dynamic Downlink Multi-Beam TCI State Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing dynamic multi-beam operations, particularly in millimeter wave communication systems, where accurate beam alignment between user equipment (UE) and base stations (BS) is crucial for effective data transmission.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a method where a UE receives configuration information about a transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state indication via downlink control information (DCI), allowing it to determine and apply the appropriate receive beam for receiving downlink control or data. Similarly, the BS generates configuration information for the TCI state indication, transmitting it to the UE to facilitate dynamic multi-beam operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated DCI format is introduced for TCI state indication, then beam alignment accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the DCI functionality into two separate formats: a first DCI format for scheduling PDSCH and a second DCI format specifically for indicating TCI states. This segmentation allows the beam indication function to be isolated and optimized independently, improving beam alignment accuracy without affecting the scheduling functionality of the first DCI format.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third message as an intermediary mechanism to convey TCI state information. This third message acts as a mediator between the gNB and UE, carrying beam indication information separately from the scheduling information, thereby enabling accurate beam alignment while maintaining the simplicity of the original DCI scheduling format.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic TCI state indication is implemented, then adaptability to changing channel conditions is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple TCI states at the UE before actual beam switching is needed. The UE stores pre-configured TCI state information and can quickly switch between them based on real-time channel conditions, enabling fast adaptation without requiring time-consuming reconfiguration processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the gNB to dynamically select and indicate different TCI states based on current channel conditions. The system transitions from static beam configuration to dynamic beam selection, allowing the UE to adapt its receive beam in real-time based on feedback about downlink channel quality.
3Manufacturing precision
If separate DL-TCI-DCI is used for beam indication, then beam configuration accuracy is improved, but overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the second DCI format to serve multiple purposes: it can indicate TCI states for both PDSCH scheduling and PUCCH transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated messages, thereby reducing overall control information overhead while maintaining accurate beam configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the beam indication function with the existing DCI scheduling mechanism by allowing the TCI state indication to be carried within or alongside the PDSCH scheduling information. This merging approach consolidates multiple control functions into a single transmission, reducing redundancy and minimizing overhead while preserving beam configuration accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a user equipment (UE) comprises receiving configuration information about a transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state indication via a downlink control information (DCI), the configuration information including a set of TCI states and information for configuring the DCI from one of a downlink (DL) DCI (DL-DCI) and a DL-TCI-DCI, wherein the DL-DCI schedules a DL physical DL shared channel (PDSCH) assignment and the DL-TCI-DCI is a dedicated DCI for TCI state indication; receiving, based on the configuration information, the configured DCI; decoding the configured DCI to obtain a TCI state update; determining a receive beam based on the TCI state update; and applying the receive beam for a reception of a DL control or a DL data.