LBT COT Sharing for Coordinated Channel Access in Unlicensed Bands

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently sharing and utilizing channel occupancy time (COT) to optimize resource allocation, particularly in unlicensed bands, which affects data transmission efficiency and latency in advanced communication systems like 6G.

Innovation Solution

A method for wireless communication where a first device shares information about the non-use of a COT with a second device, enabling coordinated resource allocation and transmission strategies to enhance data transmission efficiency and reduce latency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a device performs independent channel access in unlicensed bands, then channel utilization flexibility is improved, but resource waste increases due to redundant LBT procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel access flexibilityVSAvoidenergy waste from redundant LBT
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the channel access procedures of multiple devices by allowing one device to perform LBT on behalf of others in the group. The initiating device performs a single LBT procedure and shares the COT with other group members, eliminating redundant LBT procedures while maintaining independent channel access capability. This is achieved through group-based COT sharing where member devices can transmit within the shared COT without performing separate LBT.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables a single LBT procedure to serve multiple devices simultaneously. The initiating device's LBT result becomes universally valid for all group members during the shared COT period. This multi-functional approach allows one device to perform the channel access function that would traditionally require each device to perform individually, reducing overall system energy consumption while preserving access flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If channel occupancy time is shared among multiple devices, then resource utilization efficiency is improved, but coordination complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilization efficiencyVSAvoidcoordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments devices into groups with a designated initiating device that manages COT sharing. Each group is self-contained with clear role differentiation (initiator vs. members), simplifying coordination within the group. The initiating device performs LBT and shares COT with members, while members follow predefined rules for utilizing the shared COT. This segmentation approach limits coordination complexity to within-group interactions rather than system-wide coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables group members to autonomously utilize the shared COT based on pre-configured rules without requiring continuous coordination with the initiator. Members can independently transmit during their allocated resources within the shared COT, and the system self-manages COT extension through predefined mechanisms. This self-service approach reduces coordination overhead while maintaining efficient resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4668987A1Method and device for performing wireless communication related to lbt
Publication Date: 2025.12.24 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • EP4668987A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4668987A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4668987A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Proposed are a method for a first device to perform wireless communication and a device for supporting same. For example, the first device may receive information related to COT sharing from a second device. For example, the first device may determine not to use a first resource in the COT. For example, the first device may transmit information related to the non-use of the COT to the second device on the basis of the determination.