Dynamic Additional Synchronization Signal Configuration for Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network synchronization methods in wireless communications, particularly in the context of New Radio (NR), face challenges such as inefficient use of radio resources and inaccurate synchronization, especially in scenarios like single frequency network transmissions and silent node deployments.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a dynamically configurable additional synchronization signal that can be used by user equipment (UE) to achieve time and frequency synchronization for NR-PDCCH reception, particularly in scenarios where SSB-based synchronization is insufficient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an additional synchronization signal is always transmitted to all UEs, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but radio resource efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration of the additional synchronization signal based on actual network conditions and UE requirements. The gNB determines whether to transmit the additional synchronization signal adaptively, and UEs can request or be configured to expect this signal based on their specific scenarios (e.g., silent node deployments, SFN transmissions). This dynamic approach ensures synchronization accuracy is improved only when needed, avoiding unnecessary radio resource consumption.
2Device complexity
If SSB-based synchronization is used in all scenarios, then device complexity is reduced, but synchronization reliability deteriorates in specific scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an additional synchronization signal as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between simple SSB-based synchronization and the need for high reliability in specific scenarios. This additional signal acts as a mediator that provides the necessary timing and frequency reference information when SSB alone is insufficient, without requiring complete redesign of the synchronization architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different synchronization approaches locally based on scenario requirements. In normal scenarios, simple SSB-based synchronization is used. In specific scenarios (silent node deployments, SFN transmissions, extended RAR windows), the additional synchronization signal is selectively introduced to provide the necessary reliability enhancement only where needed.
3Reliability
If additional synchronization signals are transmitted frequently, then control channel reception robustness is improved, but resource overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic transmission of the additional synchronization signal within the RAR window timeframe, rather than continuous transmission. The signal is transmitted at specific intervals or at predetermined points (e.g., at the beginning of the RAR window or at configured periods), providing sufficient synchronization opportunities for UEs to acquire timing and frequency information without occupying radio resources continuously.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to certain embodiments, a wireless device (100) is capable of using a synchronization signal block, SSB, for synchronization. The wireless device receives (1502), from a network node (120), an indication whether an additional synchronization signal is available for use. The indication is received via downlink control information, DCI. The indication is received during paging. In response to the indication indicating that the additional synchronization signal is available for use, the wireless device performs synchronization (1510) using the additional synchronization signal. In response to the indication indicating that the additional synchronization signal is not available for use, the wireless device performs synchronization (1512) using the SSB without the additional synchronization signal.