LTE Multicast SC-MCCH and SC-MTCH Reception for BL/CE UEs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LTE/LTE-Advanced networks face challenges in supporting multicast communication for Bandwidth-reduced Low-complexity (BL) and Coverage Enhancement (CE) User Equipments (UEs) defined in 3GPP Release-13, lacking efficient methods for multicast communication in deep indoor environments and IoT applications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for performing multicast communication in a wireless communication system by receiving and transmitting Single Cell-Multicast Control Channel (SC-MCCH) and Single Cell-Multicast Traffic Channel (SC-MTCH) based on preset and determined Downlink Control Information (DCI) formats, specifically utilizing Coverage Enhanced Mode (CEMode) information to enable effective multicast communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If LTE/LTE-Advanced network is used for general data transmission, then network coverage and data rate are improved, but network maintenance costs increase due to need to operate multiple RATs separately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables LTE network to perform both general data transmission and MTC functions by implementing multicast communication capabilities in BL/CE UEs. The SC-MCCH and SC-MTCH channels allow the LTE network to serve multiple purposes (unicast and multicast) using the same infrastructure, eliminating the need to operate separate GSM/GPRS networks for MTC applications.
2Ease of manufacture
If terminal bandwidth is limited to 6 PRBs for BL UE, then terminal cost is reduced, but multicast communication capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces Coverage Enhancement Mode (CEMode) information and DCI format determination mechanisms that allow BL/CE UEs to receive multicast traffic adapted to their bandwidth limitations. By defining specific DCI formats (6-1A, 6-1B) and associated parameters for SC-MTCH reception, the system enables multicast communication tailored to the reduced capabilities of low-cost terminals.
3Area of stationary object
If Coverage Enhancement mode is defined for deep indoor environments, then coverage is improved, but complexity of multicast communication increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining DCI formats (6-1A, 6-1B) and their associated parameters for SC-MTCH reception in BL/CE UEs. The CEMode information is provided in advance through SC-MCCH, allowing UEs to configure their reception parameters before actual multicast traffic arrives, thereby reducing the complexity of real-time configuration in coverage-enhanced modes.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method and apparatus for performing multicast communication in a communication system based on LTE or LTE-Advanced. The method of a UE includes receiving a Single Cell-Multicast Control CHannel (SC-MCCH) by monitoring a downlink channel based on a preset Downlink Control Information (DCI) format, determining a DCI format for receiving a Single Cell-Multicast Traffic CHannel (SC-MTCH) based on Coverage Enhanced Mode (CEMode) information included in the SC-MCCH, and receiving the SC-MTCH by monitoring the downlink channel based on the determined DCI format for receiving the SC-MTCH.