Initial Access Signaling With Dual Transceivers for Low-Power UE Sync
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for wireless data traffic in 5G/NR communication systems necessitates improved initial access procedures to support higher data rates and robust coverage, particularly in mmWave and lower frequency bands, while minimizing energy consumption in user equipment (UE).
Innovation Solution
Implementation of dual transceivers in UE and base stations, comprising low-power transmitters/receivers (LT/LR) and main transceivers (MTR), enabling efficient energy-saving synchronization and system information exchange through low-power synchronization signals and channels, such as LP-SSB, LP-SIB, and LP-PRACH, alongside conventional SSB and SIB.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional transceivers are used for initial access procedures, then reliable synchronization and system information exchange are achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The initial access procedure is segmented into two distinct phases: a first phase using conventional transceivers (MTR) for reliable synchronization signal and system information block reception, and a second phase using low-power transceivers (LTR) for continued system information monitoring. This segmentation allows the UE to switch between power consumption levels based on operational requirements, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining reliability during critical access phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic transceiver switching where the UE transitions from using the main transceiver (MTR) during initial access to using the low-power transceiver (LTR) for subsequent system information monitoring. This dynamic adaptation of hardware usage based on operational phase allows the system to optimize power consumption while maintaining communication reliability when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If dual transceivers are implemented in UE, then energy efficiency during initial access is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual transceiver system is segmented into distinct functional roles: MTR handles initial access and critical communications, while LTR handles low-power monitoring tasks. This functional segmentation simplifies the control logic compared to a single transceiver that must handle all tasks, as each transceiver has a defined operational scope.
Solution Approach 2:
The UE autonomously manages transceiver switching based on received signaling from the base station. The device self-determines when to switch between MTR and LTR modes based on system information block indicators, eliminating the need for complex external control mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
3Duration of action of moving object
If low-power transceivers are used for synchronization, then battery life is extended, but signal reception capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The UE performs preliminary synchronization and system information acquisition using the high-capability MTR before switching to the lower-capability LTR. This preliminary action ensures that critical synchronization parameters and system information are reliably obtained before entering low-power mode, allowing the LTR to operate with reduced signal reception requirements while maintaining battery life extension.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts transceiver usage based on operational requirements. The LTR is used for continuous low-power monitoring of system information blocks that contain updates, while the MTR remains available for immediate activation when enhanced signal reception is needed, creating a dynamic balance between battery life and reception capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for initial access procedure(s). A method of a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system includes receiving a first synchronization signals and physical broadcast channel (SS/PBCH) block, receiving a first system information block (SIB), and determining, based on the first SIB, a first configuration for an uplink signal. The method further includes transmitting the uplink signal based on the first configuration, receiving a second SS/PBCH block, and receiving a second SIB.