PRACH Occasion Mapping for Multiple Transmissions in 5G NR

The patent applies universality by enabling a single PRACH occasion to serve multiple transmission purposes through the concept of K-value configurations. A single RO can be associated with multiple K values (K1, K2, K3, etc.), allowing it to handle multiple PRACH transmissions with different repetition numbers. This multi-functional approach improves reliability by providing diverse transmission opportunities without proportionally increasing configuration complexity, as the same RO infrastructure is reused across multiple K-value scenarios.

The patent utilizes parameter changes by introducing the K-value parameter that defines the number of PRACH transmissions. By configuring multiple K values (K1, K2, K3, etc.) and associating them with different ROs, the system can dynamically adjust transmission behavior. The network can select appropriate K values based on channel conditions, UE capabilities, and traffic requirements, thereby improving reliability through parameter optimization without requiring fundamentally different system architectures.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the PRACH resource configuration into distinct K-value groups (K1, K2, K3, etc.), where each K value corresponds to a specific number of transmissions. The network configures multiple ROs, each associated with specific K values, allowing UEs to select appropriate ROs based on their transmission requirements. This segmentation organizes the complex mapping relationships into manageable segments, improving resource utilization efficiency while making the determination process more systematic and less error-prone.

The patent introduces the K-value as an intermediary parameter that mediates between the UE's random access requirements and the network's resource allocation. The K-value acts as a bridge that translates transmission needs into specific RO selections. By using this intermediary, the system simplifies the mapping process: UEs determine required K values based on their needs, then select ROs associated with those K values, rather than directly managing complex many-to-many mappings between UEs and ROs.