256QAM Modulation Support in LTE Downlink Control Information

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems, particularly in LTE, face challenges in efficiently processing high data traffic and increasing data speeds due to the limited modulation methods available, such as QPSK, 16QAM, and 64QAM, which are not sufficient to handle the growing demand for data transmission.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a 256QAM modulation method and the development of an MCS index table that includes indication information for 256QAM, allowing for the selection and transmission of a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) index value based on channel state information, enabling efficient data transmission by supporting higher transmission efficiencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional modulation methods (QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM) are used, then system compatibility and reliability are maintained, but data transmission speed and efficiency cannot meet growing traffic demands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission speedVSAvoidmodulation method options
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces 256QAM modulation, changing the modulation order parameter from maximum 64QAM (6 bits per symbol) to 256QAM (8 bits per symbol). This parameter change directly increases data transmission capacity and speed, allowing the system to handle growing traffic demands while maintaining compatibility through selective activation based on channel conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If DCI size is kept limited for efficient processing, then control channel overhead is reduced, but the ability to indicate new modulation methods like 256QAM is constrained

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDCI processing efficiencyVSAvoidmodulation indication capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the existing MCS index field in DCI serve multiple functions: it continues to indicate traditional modulation methods (QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM) while also being able to indicate 256QAM when configured. This multi-functionality allows the DCI to convey new modulation information without increasing its size, maintaining processing efficiency while expanding capability

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses preliminary configuration through higher-layer signaling (RRC) to enable 256QAM support before actual data transmission. This preliminary action prepares the UE with the necessary information to interpret MCS indices for 256QAM, allowing the compact DCI to effectively indicate the new modulation method without carrying explicit configuration data each transmission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9461771B2Method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving downlink control information
Publication Date: 2016.10.04 KT CORP
  • US9461771B2 patent drawing
  • US9461771B2 patent drawing
  • US9461771B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for transmitting and receiving DCI for supporting 256QAM. Particularly, the method for receiving DCI by a user equipment, may include: transmitting, to a base station, channel state information including information obtained by measuring a channel quality state; receiving, from the base station, the DCI including an MCS index value selected based on the channel state information in a predetermined MCS index table including an MCS index value corresponding to a 256QAM modulation method; and identifying modulation information on downlink data on the basis of the selected MCS index value.