Multi-SIM RF Reallocation for Uplink Time Alignment Retention

Solution Overview

Problem

Multi-SIM devices face inefficiencies in RF resource utilization due to RF resource allocation gaps, leading to wasted resources and the need for repeated uplink synchronization procedures.

Innovation Solution

A multi-SIM device with a processor that allocates RF resources efficiently, adjusts time alignment timers based on RF resource allocation gaps, and manages RF resource reallocation to maintain uplink synchronization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple SIMs share a single RF resource in a dual SIM dual standby device, then the device can access multiple networks, but RF resource allocation gaps occur causing uplink synchronization loss

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-network access capabilityVSAvoiduplink synchronization maintenance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the time alignment timer before the RF resource is reallocated back to the first SIM. When the processor detects that the RF resource is reallocated from the second SIM to the first SIM, it proactively extends the time alignment timer based on the duration of the RF resource allocation gap. This prevents uplink synchronization loss before it occurs, eliminating the need for repeated random access procedures and maintaining reliable uplink synchronization in multi-SIM devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If the RF resource is allocated to one SIM, then that SIM can maintain communication, but the other SIM experiences RF resource allocation gaps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoiduplink synchronization recovery time

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the time alignment timer before the RF resource is reallocated back to the first SIM. When the processor detects that the RF resource is reallocated from the second SIM to the first SIM, it proactively extends the time alignment timer based on the duration of the RF resource allocation gap. This prevents uplink synchronization loss before it occurs, eliminating the need for repeated random access procedures and maintaining reliable uplink synchronization in multi-SIM devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies continuity of useful action by ensuring that the uplink synchronization remains valid throughout the RF resource allocation gap. By extending the time alignment timer to cover the period when the RF resource is allocated to the second SIM and then reallocated back to the first SIM, the system maintains continuous uplink synchronization without interruption. This eliminates the need for repeated synchronization procedures and ensures continuous communication efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Device complexity

If the time alignment timer is not adjusted during RF resource reallocation, then the device structure remains simple, but undesired random access procedures occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource management complexityVSAvoidenergy wasted in random access procedures

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by adjusting the time alignment timer before the RF resource is reallocated back to the first SIM. When the processor detects that the RF resource is reallocated from the second SIM to the first SIM, it proactively extends the time alignment timer based on the duration of the RF resource allocation gap. This prevents uplink synchronization loss before it occurs, eliminating the need for repeated random access procedures and maintaining reliable uplink synchronization in multi-SIM devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12476754B2Multi-sim device and operation method thereof

Publication Date: 2025.11.18 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A multi-subscriber identity module (SIM) device including a first SIM for first wireless communication, a second SIM for second wireless communication, and a processor configured to allocate a radio frequency (RF) resource to any one of the first and second SIMs, control first uplink time alignment of the first wireless communication by allocating the RF resource to the first SIM, and adjust a first time alignment timer for the first uplink time alignment based on an RF resource allocation gap of the first SIM when the RF resource is allocated from the first SIM to the second SIM and the RF resource is reallocated from the second SIM to the first SIM may be provided.