Initial Cell Search with 600 kHz Synchronization Raster Clusters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless networking technologies face challenges in efficiently performing initial cell search procedures, particularly for UEs supporting narrowband channel bandwidths like 3 MHz and 5 MHz, due to overlapping synchronization raster points and inefficient PBCH detection, leading to prolonged connection establishment times.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves redesigning the synchronization raster to include clusters of three raster points every 600 kHz with specific frequency offsets, and implementing PRB allocations and puncturing patterns to optimize the initial cell search process for UEs supporting both 3 MHz and 5 MHz channel bandwidths, ensuring efficient detection of synchronization signals without overlapping with other channel bandwidths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If existing synchronization raster points are used for initial cell search, then the search procedure can be performed, but overlapping with existing synchronization raster points valid for other channel bandwidths occurs, leading to prolonged connection establishment times
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization raster is segmented into multiple distinct ranges (first range, second range, third range) with different frequency offset patterns. Each range corresponds to specific channel bandwidth capabilities, allowing UEs to selectively scan only the relevant ranges based on their supported bandwidths, thereby avoiding overlapping detections and reducing search time without compromising detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different frequency offset configurations are assigned to different synchronization raster ranges. The first range uses offsets of 50 kHz, 150 kHz, and 250 kHz, while the second and third ranges use 600 kHz offsets. This local differentiation ensures that each range is optimized for specific channel bandwidth scenarios, preventing overlap issues and improving detection efficiency for narrowband UEs.
2Productivity
If traditional PBCH allocation is used, then existing network compatibility is maintained, but scanning efficiency is reduced due to overlapping synchronization raster points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-defines multiple PRB allocation patterns (unpunctured allocations and puncturing patterns) corresponding to different synchronization raster ranges before the actual cell search. UEs can directly apply the appropriate pre-configured pattern based on their channel bandwidth support, eliminating the need for complex real-time allocation decisions during scanning and improving efficiency without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces different PRB allocation parameters (unpunctured vs. puncturing patterns) based on the synchronization raster range being scanned. For the first range, 20 PRB unpunctured allocations are used, while for the second and third ranges, puncturing patterns are applied. This parameter adaptation optimizes scanning efficiency for different bandwidth scenarios while maintaining manageable device complexity through standardized patterns.
3Area of stationary object
If synchronization raster points are positioned every 600 kHz, then coverage is improved, but frequency offset management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency coverage is segmented into distinct ranges with consistent offset patterns within each range. By dividing the spectrum into first, second, and third ranges, each with its own standardized offset configuration, the patent manages frequency offset complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage. UEs only need to manage offsets relevant to their supported ranges, reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different offset configurations to different ranges rather than using a single complex configuration across all frequencies. By using simpler 50/150/250 kHz offsets in the first range and 600 kHz offsets in other ranges, the system achieves comprehensive coverage without requiring all UEs to handle the most complex offset management scenarios, effectively using partial optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a user equipment apparatus that includes at least one processor and at least one memory. The memory stores instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the user equipment apparatus at least to perform an initial cell search of one or more cells on a network. A synchronization raster includes a cluster of three raster points positioned every 600 kHz.