Beam Management for NCR Groups and Flexible Uplink Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The deployment of multiple network-controlled repeaters (NCRs) to cover coverage holes between a gNB and a UE introduces issues such as control signal overhead and limited uplink scheduling flexibility due to fixed UL power control, particularly when multiple NCRs operate in the same band.
Innovation Solution
A communication device and method for beam management that includes an entity communicating via a first link and forwarding signals via a second link, utilizing a transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state for channel state information (CSI) reporting and TCI state list configuration to manage beam coordination among multiple NCRs, enabling efficient cooperation and reducing control overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple NCRs are deployed to cover coverage holes, then coverage is improved, but control signal overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent groups multiple NCRs into NCR groups that share common control resources. Multiple NCRs within a group can be configured with the same TCI state list and use shared UL scheduling, thereby reducing the control signal overhead that would otherwise be required if each NCR operated independently with separate control configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables NCRs to operate in multiple operation modes (first and second operation modes) allowing them to serve different functions. NCRs can dynamically switch between modes to cover different areas or serve different UEs, making the control system more versatile and reducing the need for separate dedicated control channels for each NCR configuration.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple NCRs operate in the same band, then coverage is improved, but UL scheduling flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic UL power control mechanisms that allow NCRs to adjust their uplink transmission parameters in real-time based on current network conditions and scheduling requirements. This dynamic adjustment capability enables flexible UL scheduling across multiple NCRs operating in the same band, overcoming the limitation of fixed UL power control while maintaining coordinated operation.
3Area of stationary object
If independent multiple NCRs are deployed, then coverage holes are covered, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements NCR grouping where multiple NCRs are organized into groups that share common control configurations and operation modes. This grouping mechanism reduces system complexity by eliminating redundant control configurations and enabling coordinated operation, while still allowing each NCR to independently cover its designated coverage hole area.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device and a method of beam management are provided. The method is adapted to a communication device including an entity and a function, wherein the entity communicates with a network via a first link, and the function forwards signals via a second link, wherein the first link is associated with a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state. The method includes: receiving, by the entity, a channel state information (CSI) reporting configuration; transmitting, by the entity, a CSI report according to the CSI reporting configuration; and receiving, by the entity, a TCI state list configuration.