HARQ-ACK Multiplexing Across Sub-Slots to Avoid PUCCH Overlap

The patent resolves the time-domain overlap by introducing frequency-domain separation. When PUCCH resources in the same sub-slot overlap in time, the method allocates different frequency resources (different physical resource blocks) to different PUCCHs. This dimensional transition from time-division to frequency-division multiplexing eliminates resource conflict while maintaining low latency for URLLC services.

The patent dynamically adjusts PUCCH transmission parameters including frequency domain resource allocation, power control parameters, and modulation schemes based on the overlap detection result. When overlap is detected, the system changes the frequency domain parameters to assign non-overlapping resource blocks, thereby resolving the conflict while preserving the reliability improvements intended for URLLC.

The patent implements self-service through autonomous overlap detection and resolution at the user equipment. The UE independently monitors its allocated PUCCH resources, detects time-domain overlaps with other PUCCHs in the same sub-slot, and automatically adjusts frequency domain allocations without requiring complex network coordination. This self-service mechanism reduces signaling overhead and simplifies resource management while maintaining high transmission speed.

The patent performs preliminary overlap detection and frequency resource allocation before actual PUCCH transmission. By proactively identifying potential conflicts and pre-assigning frequency resources that avoid overlap, the system prevents resource conflicts before they occur. This preliminary action simplifies real-time resource management while preserving the low-latency benefits of sub-slot level PUCCH configuration.