Multi-Beam TCI State Mapping for Layered 5G NR Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing multi-beam operations in 5G/NR systems, particularly in handling multiple layers and beams for downlink and uplink channels, especially in complex environments with varying path conditions.

Innovation Solution

A multi-beam downlink and uplink wireless system is implemented, where user equipment (UE) and base stations (BS) utilize transmission configuration indication (TCI) states and corresponding TCI state identifiers to determine spatial domain filters for reception and transmission of layers, enabling efficient beam management and alignment across multiple beams.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple TCI states and spatial domain filters are configured for multi-beam operation, then beamforming gain and communication reliability are improved, but system complexity and processing overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the TCI state configuration into separate components: first TCI states for downlink channels and second TCI states for uplink channels. Each TCI state is further divided into spatial domain filter parameters that can be independently configured and applied. This segmentation allows the system to manage multiple beams and layers without overwhelming complexity, as each segment can be processed and applied independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal TCI state configuration mechanism that serves multiple functions simultaneously. The same TCI state framework is used to configure both downlink and uplink channels, supporting multiple layers and beams across different communication directions. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by reusing the same configuration structure rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If layer-specific TCI states are assigned for multi-layer downlink channels, then spatial domain filter precision is improved, but configuration information overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial domain filter precisionVSAvoidconfiguration information overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning specific TCI states to specific layers based on their individual spatial domain filter requirements. Each layer can have its own TCI state configuration tailored to its specific spatial filtering needs, allowing precise control over each layer's beamforming characteristics. This localized approach ensures that each layer receives the appropriate spatial domain filter precision without requiring all layers to use overly complex configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements partial action by configuring TCI states selectively rather than universally for all layers. The system determines which layers require layer-specific TCI states based on actual communication needs and channel conditions. This selective configuration approach provides precise spatial domain filtering where needed while avoiding unnecessary configuration overhead for layers that can use more generic settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12476671B2Configuration of a multi-beam downlink based on TCI states in a wireless system
Publication Date: 2025.11.18 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12476671B2 patent drawing
  • US12476671B2 patent drawing
  • US12476671B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and apparatuses for a multi-beam downlink and uplink wireless system. A method of a user equipment includes receiving configuration information for one or more transmission configuration indication (TCI) states and corresponding TCI state identifiers (IDs) and receiving one or more TCI state IDs. The method also includes determining, based on the one or more TCI state IDs, at least one of one or more first spatial domain filters for reception of one or more layers, respectively, of a downlink channel and one or more second spatial domain filters for transmission of one or more layers, respectively, of an uplink channel. The method further includes at least one of receiving the one or more layers of the downlink channel using the one or more first spatial domain filters, respectively, and transmitting the one or more layers of the uplink channel using the one or more second spatial domain filters, respectively.