NTN Timing Gap Scaling for Low-Capability UE Uplink
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), the existing timing relationships defined for Terrestrial Networks are inadequate due to the larger communication distances involved, particularly in satellite-based systems. This poses challenges in determining accurate timing relationships for uplink transmissions in NTN.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a user equipment (UE) that receives a scaling factor and an offset through Radio Resource Control (RRC) signals from a base station. The UE calculates a new time gap by applying the scaling factor to the initial time gap, which includes K1 and K2 values, and determines an uplink slot based on this new time gap and the offset. This approach extends the range of K1 and K2 values to accommodate UEs with low capability for accurate differential timing advance acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the existing timing relationships defined for Terrestrial Networks are used in Non-Terrestrial Networks, then the system complexity remains low and existing protocols are maintained, but the timing accuracy deteriorates due to larger communication distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a scaling factor that modifies the timing relationship parameters (K1, K2) based on the larger communication distances in NTN. The scaling factor adjusts the timing values to compensate for propagation delays, transforming the timing parameters from terrestrial standards to NTN-appropriate values without changing the underlying protocol structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the timing relationships adaptive rather than static. The scaling factor allows the timing parameters to dynamically adjust according to the specific NTN configuration and communication distance, enabling the system to maintain timing accuracy across varying satellite positions and propagation conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the range of K1 and K2 values is extended to accommodate low-capability UEs, then the adaptability improves for different UE capabilities, but the signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a unified timing relationship framework that serves both high-capability and low-capability UEs through the scaling factor mechanism. The same basic timing parameters (K1, K2) are used for all UEs, but the scaling factor adjusts them appropriately, allowing a single protocol to universally support different UE capabilities without requiring separate parameter sets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by selectively applying the scaling factor only where needed for low-capability UEs, while high-capability UEs can use the standard timing relationships with a scaling factor of 1. This partial application of the extension mechanism avoids unnecessary signaling overhead for UEs that don't require it
Data Source
AI summary
A base station that determines a slot for uplink reception for a non-terrestrial network link between a base station and a user equipment is described. In exemplary embodiments, the base station determines a timing advance based on at least a random access preamble reception and determines an uplink offset based on the timing advance. The base station may further determine a candidate slot for an uplink reception based on at least the offset. In addition, the base station may determine if the candidate slot is available for the uplink reception. The base station may use the candidate slot for the uplink reception when the candidate uplink slot is available and may use the next available slot for the uplink reception when the candidate uplink slot is not available.