Frequency Hopping Pattern for MTC Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Machine Type Communication (MTC) user equipment, particularly in IoT applications using LTE/LTE-A, faces challenges with coverage enhancement due to limited RF bandwidth and poor metal cabinet placements, where existing frequency hopping methods are inadequate for repeated channels.
Innovation Solution
The method involves acquiring a frequency hopping pattern that determines the time-domain granularity based on available subframes, allowing for efficient frequency hopping by designating specific subframes for transmission, thereby improving coverage and spectral efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extensive repetition of channels is used for coverage enhancement, then coverage is improved, but the number of repetitions increases leading to loss of time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies frequency hopping that dynamically changes the frequency position across different subframes. The frequency position is determined by a hopping pattern that varies over time, allowing the system to adapt to different channel conditions without requiring extensive repetitions. This dynamic frequency adjustment provides frequency diversity gain while reducing the number of repetitions needed for coverage enhancement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter over time by implementing frequency hopping. The frequency position is modified according to a hopping pattern that depends on the subframe index and available subframes configuration. This parameter change enables the system to exploit frequency diversity and improve coverage with fewer repetitions compared to static frequency transmission.
2Reliability
If frequency hopping is implemented for repeated channels, then frequency diversity gain is obtained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frequency hopping pattern is determined autonomously by the UE based on pre-configured parameters and the available subframes information. The hopping pattern calculation is performed using a standardized formula that the UE can compute independently without requiring complex network coordination or additional signaling. This self-service approach reduces device complexity while still achieving frequency diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frequency hopping implementation is segmented into discrete steps based on available subframes configurations (mode a, b, c, d). Each mode represents a simplified hopping pattern suitable for specific repetition scenarios. This segmentation allows the UE to select an appropriate hopping pattern based on the repetition number and available subframes, reducing the complexity of implementing frequency hopping for repeated channels.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides an information transmission method and apparatus. The method includes acquiring a frequency hopping pattern and sending information or a channel on available subframes according to the frequency hopping pattern, where a time-domain granularity for frequency hopping of the frequency hopping pattern is determined by the available subframes.