Idle State Reference Signal Configuration for Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no existing solution for indicating a CSI-RS/TRS resource to terminal devices in an idle or inactive state, which is necessary for them to perform time-frequency tracking and automatic gain control.
Innovation Solution
The method involves the network device transmitting configuration information indicating an RS resource to the terminal device, with the configuration information including quasi-co-location (QCL) information, allowing the terminal device to obtain RS configuration information even in an idle or inactive state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If terminal devices in idle or inactive state do not use RS resources, then device complexity and energy consumption are reduced, but time-frequency tracking and automatic gain control cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal device autonomously determines whether to perform time-frequency tracking based on its current state (idle/inactive vs. connected) and service requirements. The device self-manages RS resource usage without continuous network control, reducing signaling overhead while ensuring tracking capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces state-dependent parameter changes: terminal devices in idle/inactive states use different RS configuration parameters compared to connected states. The network configures RS resources with specific parameters (periodicity, offset, bandwidth) that are activated based on terminal state, enabling energy-efficient operation while maintaining tracking capability.
2Reliability
If RS resources are configured for terminal devices in idle or inactive state, then time-frequency tracking capability is improved, but device complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RS resources configured for idle/inactive terminal devices are designed to serve multiple purposes: time-frequency tracking, automatic gain control, and potential mobility management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate signaling mechanisms, thereby reducing overall signaling overhead while maintaining comprehensive tracking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The network pre-configures RS resource parameters for terminal devices in idle/inactive states before actual tracking is needed. This preliminary configuration includes pre-defining resource locations, periodicity, and other parameters, so that when tracking is required, the terminal can immediately use these pre-established resources without additional signaling exchanges.
3Device complexity
If no RS configuration information is provided to terminal devices in idle or inactive state, then network complexity is reduced, but operational capabilities of terminal devices are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments RS configuration information into state-specific configurations: one set for connected state terminals with full functionality, and another simplified set for idle/inactive state terminals focused on basic tracking and AGC. This segmentation allows the network to manage complexity by providing only the necessary configuration level for each terminal state, while still enabling appropriate operational capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration mechanism where the network provides condensed RS configuration information through efficient signaling methods (such as compact parameter encoding or pre-agreed configuration patterns). This intermediary representation reduces network complexity in managing and transmitting configuration data while still providing sufficient information for terminal devices to perform time-frequency tracking and AGC operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods for information indication, terminal devices, network devices, and a communication system are provided in implementations of the disclosure. The method for information indication includes the following. A terminal device receives configuration information of a reference signal (RS) resource. The terminal device is in an idle state or an inactive state. The configuration information contains a quasi-co-location (QCL) information field. The QCL information field carries first information. The first information is used for determining QCL information of the RS resource.