Dynamic Slot Format Indication for 5G NR Efficiency

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In the 5G New Radio (NR) system, terminal devices struggle to determine the slot format in time due to limited transmission time, leading to reduced data transmission efficiency, especially when network devices use semi-static configuration and dynamic indication methods like Group Common PDCCH are not timely.

Innovation Solution

A method where a network device sends an indication signal to a terminal device upon obtaining a downlink transmission opportunity, allowing the terminal device to dynamically determine the slot format, thereby improving data transmission efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If semi-static configuration is used for slot format, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration complexityVSAvoidslot format adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from semi-static to dynamic slot format indication. The network device dynamically determines and indicates slot formats based on real-time downlink transmission opportunities, allowing the system to adapt to changing channel conditions and traffic demands while maintaining manageable complexity through automated procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the temporal parameter of slot format configuration from semi-static to dynamic. By introducing dynamic indication mechanisms that update slot formats based on current transmission opportunities, the system achieves better adaptability without significantly increasing device complexity through standardized procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If dynamic indication is used for slot format, then adaptability is improved, but transmission time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslot format adaptabilityVSAvoidtransmission time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the network device determine the slot format in advance based on the downlink transmission opportunity before actual data transmission occurs. This allows the terminal device to prepare accordingly, reducing the time loss associated with dynamic determination during the transmission process itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent rushes through the slot format determination process by having the network device make the determination based on pre-established criteria and transmission opportunities, rather than requiring extended negotiation or measurement periods. This minimizes the time overhead while achieving dynamic adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #21Skipping (Rushing through)

3Loss of time

If slot format determination is delayed, then transmission time is reduced, but data transmission efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetermination timeVSAvoiddata transmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network device monitors downlink transmission opportunities and provides slot format indications to terminal devices. This feedback loop enables rapid determination of slot formats based on real-time channel conditions, improving both determination speed and data transmission efficiency through coordinated actions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies self-service by enabling terminal devices to autonomously determine slot formats based on received indications and pre-configured parameters, without requiring extended network coordination. This self-determination capability reduces overall determination time while maintaining high transmission efficiency through localized decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4236182B1Method and device for determining slot-format
Publication Date: 2026.03.18 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • EP4236182B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4236182B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP4236182B1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

A method for determining a slot-format, comprising: a terminal device receiving an indication signal, the indication signal having a first correspondence with a downlink transmission opportunity; and the terminal device determining a slot-format on the basis of the indication signal. Further disclosed are another method for determining a slot-format, a terminal device, a network device and a storage medium.