Multi-SCell Activation Using T-RS Time/Frequency Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communications systems face challenges in simultaneously activating multiple secondary cells (SCells) due to limitations in performing Time/Frequency (T/F) tracking and Automatic Gain Control (AGC) adjustments, which prolong the activation process.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a new UE capability that allows for simultaneous activation of multiple SCells by using temporary reference signals (T-RS) for fine T/F tracking and AGC adjustments, with a defined maximum number of SCells supported for simultaneous processing, enabling faster activation than relying on SMTCs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional SCell activation methods are used, then the activation process is simple to implement, but the activation time is prolonged due to sequential T/F tracking and AGC adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the SCell activation process by dividing multiple SCells into different groups (first group and second group). The first group undergoes T/F tracking and AGC adjustments using first T-RSs, while the second group uses second T-RSs. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different SCell groups, reducing overall activation time while managing UE complexity through organized batch processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the UE perform T/F tracking and AGC adjustments on the first group of SCells before activating the second group. The first T-RSs are received and processed in advance, establishing timing and frequency references that enable faster subsequent activation of the second group. This preliminary processing reduces the critical path duration for multi-SCell activation.
2Productivity
If multiple SCells are activated simultaneously, then the system productivity increases, but the difficulty of performing T/F tracking and AGC adjustments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multiple SCells into distinct groups that can be processed in parallel. Each group receives dedicated T-RS resources (first T-RSs for the first group, second T-RSs for the second group), allowing the UE to perform T/F tracking and AGC adjustments separately for each group. This segmentation reduces the instantaneous processing difficulty while maintaining high overall throughput through parallel group activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temporary reference signals (T-RSs) as intermediary resources that facilitate the activation process. These T-RSs serve as mediators between the activation command and the actual SCell activation, providing the necessary reference information for T/F tracking and AGC adjustments. The T-RSs simplify the detection and measurement process by providing dedicated reference signals for each SCell group.
3Speed
If more T-RS resources are allocated for simultaneous SCell activation, then the activation speed improves, but the resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the T-RS resources into first T-RSs and second T-RSs, corresponding to different SCell groups. This segmentation allows efficient allocation of T-RS resources by matching the number of reference signals to the specific needs of each group size. The system can optimize resource consumption by allocating fewer T-RS resources to smaller groups while maintaining fast activation capability for the entire set of SCells.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by activating SCells in groups rather than all at once. The first group is activated with first T-RSs, and the second group follows with second T-RSs. This partial grouping approach achieves fast activation without requiring excessive T-RS resources for all SCells simultaneously, optimizing the balance between activation speed and resource consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments include an apparatus, method, and computer program product for simultaneous multiple secondary cell (SCell) fast activation in a wireless communications system. Some embodiments include a user equipment (UE) that can simultaneously activate multiple SCells. In some embodiments, after receiving an activation command, the UE can receive two or more temporary reference signals (T-RSs) which are user equipment (UE) specific reference signals. The UE can use the T-RSs for fine time/frequency (T/F) tracking and Automatic Gain Control (AGC) adjustment of corresponding SCells resulting in reduced SCell activation latency compared to utilizing a Synchronization Signal (SS)/Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) Block Measurement Timing Configuration (SMTC).