5G NR Frame Structure Indication via Segmented Time Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies struggle to accurately indicate different frame structures in communication systems, particularly in 5G NR and future evolutionary versions, which hampers efficient network configuration and resource management.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for indicating and determining frame structures by determining one or multiple first time units and indicating their frame structures, allowing for accurate representation of various frame structures, including those for downlink, uplink, and flexible transmission directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a time-division half-duplex scheme based on fake MBSFN subframes is used in LTE-A relay technology, then network coverage is expanded and cell-edge data rate is improved, but the frame structure indication becomes insufficient for 5G NR and future evolutionary versions
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is segmented into different types (first type with first time unit, second type with second time unit) that can be independently configured and indicated. This segmentation allows the system to selectively apply different frame structures to different links (access link vs. backhaul link) and different service requirements, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining the reliability benefits of time-division half-duplex operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic frame structure indication through higher-layer signaling (RRC configuration) and dynamic signaling (DCI format 2_0). This dynamic mechanism allows the frame structure to be flexibly adjusted based on traffic conditions, link type, and service requirements, transforming the static LTE-A approach into a dynamic 5G NR solution that maintains reliability while improving adaptability.
2Productivity
If different multiplexing modes (TDM, FDM, SDM) are supported in 5G NR relay technology, then resource utilization is improved, but the frame structure indication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal frame structure indication mechanism that works across multiple multiplexing modes (TDM, FDM, SDM). The higher-layer parameter configuration and DCI format 2_0 design provide a unified approach that can indicate different frame structures regardless of the underlying multiplexing mode, thereby supporting diverse resource utilization strategies without proportionally increasing indication complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in higher-layer signaling (RRC configuration parameters) and physical layer signaling (DCI format 2_0 fields) to efficiently indicate different frame structures. By encoding frame structure information in configurable parameters with compact representations, the system can support multiple multiplexing modes and frame structure types without excessive signaling overhead or complexity.
3Reliability
If multi-hop relay and redundant connectivity are supported in 5G NR, then network robustness is improved, but accurate frame structure indication becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces higher-layer signaling (RRC configuration) as an intermediary that pre-configures frame structure parameters before data transmission. This intermediary layer provides a reliable foundation for frame structure indication in multi-hop relay scenarios, ensuring that all nodes have consistent understanding of frame structures before dynamic adjustments are made through physical layer signaling, thereby maintaining indication accuracy despite network complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are method and device for indicating a frame structure. The method includes determining one or multiple first time units; and indicating the frame structure of the one or multiple first time units; wherein a transmission direction on the one or multiple first time units is indicated by the frame structure, the transmission direction comprises downlink transmission, uplink transmission or flexible direction. Further provided are method and device for determining a frame structure, a storage medium, and an electronic device.