NTN Satellite Measurement Timing Adjustment for Multi-Satellite SMTC

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Solution Overview

Problem

In Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) systems, the varying propagation distances between satellites and terminals result in different arrival times of reference signals, making it impossible to measure all satellites using the same SSB measurement timing configuration (SMTC), necessitating adaptations for different satellites or cells.

Innovation Solution

A terminal device adjusts SMTC and/or associated information based on conditions, including autonomous adjustments or network configurations, to adapt measurements to the mobility characteristics of multiple satellites or cells.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single SSB measurement timing configuration (SMTC) is used, then the measurement configuration is simple and uniform, but it cannot measure all satellites due to varying propagation distances and different arrival times

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement adaptability to different satellitesVSAvoidSMTC configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by enabling the terminal device to dynamically adjust the SMTC configuration based on the mobility characteristics of different satellites. The terminal can modify SMTC parameters (such as timing windows) adaptively when measuring satellites with different propagation delays, allowing the system to transition from a static single configuration to a dynamic multi-configuration approach that handles varying satellite positions and movements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying SMTC parameters (timing windows, durations, offsets) according to the specific measurement requirements of different satellites. When the terminal detects that a satellite has different mobility characteristics or propagation delay, it changes the corresponding SMTC parameters to accommodate these differences, thereby resolving the contradiction between using a uniform configuration and achieving satellite-specific adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If different SMTC configurations are used for different satellites, then measurement accuracy for each satellite is improved, but the complexity of managing multiple configurations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracy for different satellitesVSAvoidmultiple SMTC configuration management
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the measurement configuration into separate SMTC instances for different satellite groups. Instead of using a single monolithic configuration, the system segments the measurement timing into multiple distinct configurations (e.g., first SMTC for first satellites, second SMTC for second satellites), allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific satellite group while maintaining overall system manageability through structured organization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a flexible SMTC configuration framework that can serve multiple satellite types and mobility scenarios through a single adaptable mechanism. The terminal device can configure SMTC parameters universally applicable to different satellite constellations (LEO, MEO, GEO) while maintaining satellite-specific optimization, thereby achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Speed

If the terminal device autonomously adjusts SMTC, then the system responds faster to changing satellite conditions, but the risk of configuration errors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse speed to satellite mobility changesVSAvoidconfiguration accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by implementing a mechanism where the terminal device monitors satellite measurement conditions (such as signal quality, timing accuracy) and uses this feedback to automatically adjust SMTC configurations. When the terminal detects that current SMTC settings are no longer optimal for a satellite's mobility characteristics, it receives feedback information and autonomously modifies the configuration accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that balances rapid response with configuration reliability through continuous monitoring and validation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4708950A1Measurement adjustment method, terminal device, and network device
Publication Date: 2026.03.11 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • EP4708950A1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4708950A1 patent drawingFigure 5~7
  • EP4708950A1 patent drawingFigure 8~9

AI summary

The present application relates to a measurement adjustment method, a terminal device, a network device, a chip, a computer readable storage medium, a computer program product, and a computer program. The measurement adjustment method comprises: when a first condition is satisfied, a terminal device adjusts an SMTC used for measurement of a plurality of satellites or cells and/or first information corresponding to the SMTC, wherein the first condition is related to the plurality of satellites or cells, and the adjustment comprises autonomous adjustment by the terminal device or adjustment according to a network configuration. Embodiments of the present application can adapt to movement characteristics of different satellites and then implement measurement.