Multi-Cell DCI Structure for Uplink and Downlink Scheduling

The patent combines multiple DCIs into a single DCI that schedules multiple cells simultaneously. This is achieved by merging the scheduling information of multiple cells into one unified DCI message, which includes cell-specific parameters for each scheduled cell. The UE receives one DCI instead of multiple separate DCIs, thereby reducing control signaling overhead and improving transmission efficiency while eliminating redundant network resources.

The single DCI is designed to perform multiple functions by scheduling multiple cells with different parameters. The DCI structure includes universal fields that apply to all scheduled cells and cell-specific fields that provide individual configuration for each cell. This multi-functional DCI enables efficient resource allocation across multiple cells while maintaining the ability to independently configure each cell's transmission parameters.

The patent segments the DCI structure into multiple parts: common fields that apply to all scheduled cells, cell-specific fields for each cell, and configurable parameter sets. By dividing the DCI into these segments, the patent can efficiently pack only the necessary information for each cell while maintaining a compact overall structure that fits within decoding bit limits. The segmentation allows flexible configuration where not all cells require all parameters.

The patent employs parameter changes by making the DCI structure configurable based on the specific scheduling scenario. Different parameter sets can be activated depending on the number and type of cells being scheduled. The DCI includes optional fields and configurable parameter combinations that adapt to the scheduling requirements, allowing the bit number to be optimized for each specific case while maintaining scheduling efficiency.

The patent implements a dynamic DCI structure where the presence and configuration of cell-specific fields depend on the scheduling scenario. The DCI can adaptively include or exclude certain parameter fields based on the number of cells being scheduled and their specific requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the system to maintain high multi-cell scheduling capability while keeping the actual DCI bit number and decoding complexity appropriate for each specific case.

The patent uses a template-based approach where cell-specific parameter sets are defined as reusable templates. Instead of creating entirely new DCI structures for different cell configurations, the patent copies and combines standardized parameter templates for each scheduled cell. This copying mechanism maintains consistency across different scheduling scenarios and reduces decoding complexity by using pre-defined parameter structures that the UE can efficiently process.