Multi-Panel Uplink TCI State Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G NR, face challenges in enabling simultaneous multi-panel uplink (UL) transmission, which is essential for efficient data transfer across multiple transmission reception points, due to limitations in signaling and beam management, leading to sub-optimal channel utilization and interference management.
Innovation Solution
A framework is introduced that extends the unified TCI state framework to support simultaneous multi-panel uplink transmission by configuring wireless devices with multiple transmission configuration indicator (TCI) states, allowing for simultaneous activation and deactivation of TCI states via DCI signaling, and using separate or joint TCI states for downlink and uplink channels to manage spatial filters and modulation schemes effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single TCI state is used for uplink transmission, then the system complexity is low, but the adaptability to different channel conditions and spatial directions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the uplink transmission configuration by introducing multiple TCI states (first TCI state and second TCI state) that can be independently activated and deactivated. Each TCI state corresponds to different spatial filters and transmission parameters, allowing the system to divide the transmission task into multiple configurable segments rather than using a single monolithic configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic TCI state management through DCI signaling that can activate or deactivate specific TCI states based on current channel conditions. The system transitions from static single-state configuration to dynamic multi-state switching, where the network can adaptively select appropriate TCI states in real-time to optimize uplink transmission performance
2Reliability
If multiple TCI states are configured for simultaneous multi-panel uplink transmission, then the data transfer reliability improves, but the signaling overhead and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the TCI state framework universal by designing it to support both single-panel and multi-panel uplink transmissions. The same TCI state configuration mechanism serves multiple purposes: it can configure spatial filters for different panels, manage transmission parameters for diverse channel conditions, and provide a unified interface for both uplink and downlink configurations through the extended unified TCI framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in DCI signaling to dynamically switch between different TCI states. By modifying activation/deactivation parameters in the DCI messages, the system can transition between single-panel and multi-panel modes, adjust spatial filter configurations, and adapt transmission parameters without requiring complex reconfiguration procedures
3Productivity
If simultaneous multi-panel uplink transmission is enabled, then the resource utilization improves, but the interference management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different spatial filters and TCI states to different panels based on their specific channel characteristics and interference environments. Each panel can be configured with optimized local parameters (spatial filters, transmission beams) that are tailored to its specific direction and channel conditions, rather than using uniform configuration across all panels
Data Source
AI summary
A method, network node and wireless device (WD) providing a framework for simultaneous multi-panel uplink (UL) transmission are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method in a network node includes configuring the WD with at least two transmission configuration indicator (TCI) states. The method also includes transmitting downlink control information (DCI) comprising an indication of a first TCI state and a second TCI state to be activated by the WD. The method also includes receiving a first physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) transmission occasion or a first set of PUSCH layers transmitted using a first spatial filter associated with the first TCI state. The method also includes receiving a second PUSCH transmission occasion or a second set of PUSCH layers transmitted using a second spatial filter associated with the second TCI state.