HARQ Timer Configuration for Non-Terrestrial Network Latency

The patent applies dynamics by making the HARQ RTT timer configurable and adaptable to different propagation delays in non-terrestrial networks. The timer value is dynamically adjusted based on the specific network conditions and cell configurations, allowing the system to optimize HARQ operations for varying satellite communication scenarios rather than using fixed timer values designed for terrestrial networks.

The patent changes the timer parameter values to accommodate long propagation delays in NTN. By configuring HARQ RTT timers based on propagation delay characteristics of non-terrestrial networks, the system adjusts critical timing parameters to match the extended round-trip times inherent in satellite communications, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining HARQ feedback and reducing latency.

The patent applies local quality by enabling HARQ feedback selectively for specific cells or cell groups rather than uniformly across all cells. The network can configure different HARQ feedback behaviors for different serving cells based on their specific characteristics, such as propagation delay, traffic type, and reliability requirements. This allows the system to maintain reliability where needed while reducing complexity and overhead in other scenarios.

The patent segments the HARQ feedback mechanism by applying it to specific cell groups or individual cells rather than as a monolithic system. Through RRC configuration, the network can divide cells into different groups with different HARQ feedback settings, allowing granular control over where HARQ operations are performed. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliability in critical transmission paths.