Multi-Hop Sidelink Relay Connection Control for Extended NR Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sidelink relay operations in NR are limited to single-hop configurations, which restrict their applicability in scenarios requiring extended coverage, necessitating the development of multi-hop relay operations for effective communication.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for controlling multi-hop sidelink relay operations, involving intermediate and last relay UEs, which include receiving system information, transmitting discovery messages, and managing connections to support multi-hop sidelink relay technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If single-hop sidelink relay operation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but communication coverage and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The relay operation is segmented into multiple hops, where each relay UE handles a specific segment of the communication path. The patent divides the relay chain into first relay UEs (closer to gNodeB) and second relay UEs (closer to UE), with each segment managing its own discovery and connection procedures, thereby extending coverage while maintaining manageable complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to relay operation by enabling multi-hop chains instead of single-hop connections. This dimensional expansion allows communication paths to extend through multiple relay UEs in sequence, transforming the traditional two-node relay model into a multi-node chain that provides extended coverage capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-hop relay operation is implemented, then communication coverage is enhanced, but connection control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Connection control is segmented into distinct procedures: first relay UEs perform discovery and connection to gNodeB, while second relay UEs perform discovery and connection to first relay UEs. This segmentation allows each relay UE to manage its own connection independently, reducing the complexity burden on individual nodes while enabling multi-hop operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary discovery procedures where relay UEs exchange discovery messages before establishing full connections. First relay UEs transmit discovery messages to potential second relay UEs, and second relay UEs respond with discovery response messages, establishing connection parameters in advance before actual data transmission begins.
3Ease of operation
If relay UE connection information is transmitted, then connection control is enabled, but information transmission requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts essential connection information into specific message types: discovery messages contain first relay UE identification and connection status, while discovery response messages contain second relay UE identification and acceptable connection parameters. This extraction of critical information into dedicated message structures enables connection control with minimal necessary data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
Discovery messages and discovery response messages act as intermediaries that facilitate connection control between relay UEs. These standardized message formats mediate the information exchange, allowing connection parameters to be transmitted efficiently without requiring complex direct negotiations between all nodes.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a method and device for connection control of an UE providing a multi-hop relay operation in a sidelink network. The method may include receiving system information for a multi-hop sidelink relay operation, and transmitting a discovery message including at least one of information about whether there is an RRC connection and information about a number of hops connected to a base station.