Orthogonal Time Units for 5G Uplink Interference Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G NR, there is a challenge in ensuring flexible Numerology for uplink transmissions on Unlicensed Spectrum to prevent inter-user interference when multiple UEs share the same resources.

Innovation Solution

A method where UEs determine a start time for Grant-Free uplink transmission within a first time window, with time offsets relative to a reference time belonging to a target offset set, allowing for orthogonal time units and subcarrier spacing-dependent resource allocation to reduce interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple UEs share the same unlicensed spectrum resources for uplink transmission, then resource utilization is improved, but inter-user interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidinter-user interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the unlicensed spectrum resources by introducing orthogonal time units (OTUs) with different durations based on subcarrier spacing. Each UE is assigned to specific OTUs, dividing the shared resources into isolated time segments that prevent interference while maintaining high utilization of the unlicensed spectrum

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the base station configures different orthogonal time unit durations and offsets for different UEs based on their transmission requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt resource allocation to varying traffic conditions while preventing interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If flexible Numerology is supported in 5G NR for uplink transmissions, then adaptability to different application scenarios is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexible Numerology supportVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the time parameter by introducing orthogonal time units with durations that are integer multiples of a base time unit, where the base time unit varies according to subcarrier spacing. This parameter change enables flexible Numerology support while maintaining manageable system complexity through standardized relationships

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal time unit structure that works across different subcarrier spacings. The orthogonal time unit concept provides a multi-functional framework that supports various Numerologies and application scenarios through a single unified mechanism, reducing the need for separate handling of each scenario

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

3Loss of time

If autonomous uplink transmission is implemented in unlicensed spectrum, then latency is reduced, but interference management becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission latencyVSAvoidinterference management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the base station pre-configure orthogonal time unit parameters (durations and offsets) for each UE before autonomous transmission begins. This advance configuration enables UEs to transmit autonomously with low latency while the base station has already established the interference management framework

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where UEs report their transmission status and the base station adjusts orthogonal time unit configurations based on observed interference patterns. This feedback loop enables autonomous transmission to proceed with minimal latency while maintaining effective interference management

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20230129797A1Method and device in UE and base station used for wireless communication
Publication Date: 2023.04.27 APOGEE 5G GLOBAL LLC
  • US20230129797A1 patent drawing
  • US20230129797A1 patent drawing
  • US20230129797A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a method and a device in a UE and a base station for wireless communications. The UE receives first information, and transmits a first radio signal in a first time window in a first sub-band. The first information is used for determining the first time window; a time offset of a start time for a transmission of the first radio signal relative to a reference time belongs to a target offset set, the target offset set comprising W offset value(s); time offset(s) of W start time(s) respectively relative to the reference time is(are) respectively equal to the W offset value(s); any of the W start time(s) belongs to one of N time units, any of the N time units comprises at least one of the W start times.