Non-Orthogonal Multiplexing Layer Identification Signaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

In Sparse Code Multiple Access (SCMA) systems, terminal devices face challenges in identifying the layer allocated to them during non-orthogonal multiplexing using a codebook, which affects communication processes and can lead to inefficient use of radio resources due to variable traffic patterns and changing numbers of layers.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that include an acquisition unit to obtain information about the allocated layer and a reporting unit to inform the terminal device, allowing it to perform communication processes based on this information, thereby enabling efficient layer identification and dynamic allocation of radio resources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If non-orthogonal multiplexing using a codebook is used, then the number of multiplexed users and spectral efficiency are improved, but the terminal device cannot identify its allocated layer, leading to communication process failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral efficiencyVSAvoidlayer identification
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (layer indication signaling) that mediates between the base station's layer allocation decision and the terminal device's communication processing. This signaling explicitly carries layer allocation information from the base station to the terminal device, enabling the terminal to identify its allocated layer without compromising the non-orthogonal multiplexing structure. The intermediary signaling resolves the contradiction by adding minimal overhead while ensuring proper layer identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If a fixed layer allocation is used, then the terminal device can easily identify its layer, but radio resource utilization becomes inefficient due to variable traffic patterns

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer identificationVSAvoidradio resource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic layer allocation where the base station can flexibly assign different layers to terminal devices based on varying traffic conditions, channel states, and system load. The layer allocation is not fixed but adapts in real-time through signaling mechanisms that inform terminal devices of their current layer assignments. This dynamic approach maintains ease of operation through explicit signaling while achieving adaptability in resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the layer allocation parameter dynamically based on traffic conditions and system state. Instead of maintaining a fixed layer assignment, the base station adjusts layer parameters (which layer is allocated to which terminal) according to current network conditions, thereby optimizing radio resource utilization while still providing clear layer identification through signaling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If the number of layers changes dynamically, then radio resource efficiency is improved, but the terminal device cannot ascertain its allocated layer

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradio resource efficiencyVSAvoidlayer allocation information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station provides layer allocation information to terminal devices through signaling. This feedback ensures that terminal devices receive accurate and up-to-date information about their allocated layers, even when the number of layers changes dynamically. The feedback loop prevents information loss by explicitly transmitting layer assignment data from the base station to the terminal device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by providing layer allocation information to terminal devices before actual communication processing occurs. This advance notification ensures that terminal devices have the necessary layer information ready before they need to process communications, preventing information loss and enabling efficient communication even when layer configurations change dynamically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10477555B2Device and method for non-orthogonal multiplexing
Publication Date: 2019.11.12 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US10477555B2 patent drawing
  • US10477555B2 patent drawing
  • US10477555B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a device including an acquisition unit to acquire that acquires information indicating a layer allocated to a terminal device among a plurality of layers that are subject to non-orthogonal multiplexing using a codebook and a reporting unit that reports the layer to the terminal device.