NR-U Signal Allocation for Flexible Unlicensed-Band Multiplexing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing signal transmission/reception methods in unlicensed bands for NR-U have not been comprehensively studied, requiring flexible frequency multiplexing among terminals with different system bandwidths and supporting multiple subcarrier spacings while adhering to PSD limitations.

Innovation Solution

A transmission apparatus and method that assigns signals to resources based on control information indicating allocation of groups of frequency blocks, using a combination of RIV-based and bitmap-based allocation methods to facilitate flexible frequency multiplexing and reduce signaling overhead.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single frequency allocation method is used for all terminals, then the system is simple to implement, but it cannot flexibly support terminals with different system bandwidths and subcarrier spacings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility to support different system bandwidths and subcarrier spacingsVSAvoidcomplexity of frequency allocation mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frequency band is divided into multiple blocks, and each block can be independently allocated to terminals. This segmentation allows the system to flexibly accommodate different system bandwidths and subcarrier spacings by allocating appropriate combinations of blocks to different terminals, rather than using a single rigid allocation method for all terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic frequency allocation where the allocation method (RIV-based or bitmap-based) and the number of blocks allocated are determined based on terminal-specific parameters such as system bandwidth and subcarrier spacing. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to optimize resource allocation for each terminal while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized allocation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If detailed resource allocation information is provided for each block, then precise resource allocation is achieved, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of resource allocationVSAvoidsignaling overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of providing detailed allocation information for every possible block configuration, the patent uses RIV-based allocation that specifies only the starting block index and the number of contiguous blocks. This partial specification is sufficient to identify the allocated resources without transmitting complete allocation details for each block, thereby reducing signaling overhead while maintaining precise resource allocation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs different allocation parameters depending on the allocation pattern: RIV (Resource Indication Value) for contiguous block allocations and bitmap for non-contiguous allocations. By changing the parameter representation based on the allocation requirements, the system achieves precise resource allocation with minimized signaling overhead, as each parameter type is optimized for its specific use case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250240133A1Transmitting device, receiving device, transmitting method and receiving method
Publication Date: 2025.07.24 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CORP OF AMERICA
  • US20250240133A1 patent drawing
  • US20250240133A1 patent drawing
  • US20250240133A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a terminal which appropriately transmits and receives signals when operating in an unlicensed band. A terminal (200) is provided with: a mapping unit (207) for allocating a signal to a resource on the basis of control information indicating allocation of groups among a plurality of groups obtained by grouping a plurality of blocks into which a frequency band has been divided, and allocation of resources in the blocks; and a transmitting unit (209) for transmitting the signal.