PUCCH Resource Allocation for CoMP HARQ-ACK Signaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face inefficiencies in transmission power control and overhead reduction, particularly in CoMP operations, due to the need for non-conventional PUCCH resources for HARQ-ACK signaling, which increases UL overhead and requires complex resource management.

Innovation Solution

The method involves configuring users to use either conventional or non-conventional PUCCH resources for HARQ-ACK signaling based on configuration information, using different sequences and resource mappings to reduce overhead, and dynamically selecting resources to optimize transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If non-conventional PUCCH resources are used for HARQ-ACK signaling in CoMP operations, then orthogonal reception at multiple points is enabled, but UL overhead increases and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorthogonal reception capabilityVSAvoidUL overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by enabling PUCCH resources to serve multiple functions: conventional PUCCH resources handle single-point reception while non-conventional PUCCH resources handle multi-point CoMP reception. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt resource usage based on operational mode, reducing the need for dedicated resources for each scenario and thereby reducing overall overhead.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics through dynamic resource selection where the UE and network can switch between conventional and non-conventional PUCCH resources based on current CoMP operational requirements. This dynamic allocation allows the system to use non-conventional resources only when needed for orthogonal multi-point reception, rather than permanently allocating separate resources, thus reducing overhead while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If non-conventional PUCCH resources are allocated for HARQ-ACK signaling, then CoMP operations are supported, but resource management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCoMP operation supportVSAvoidresource management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing PUCCH resources into distinct categories: conventional resources for single-point reception and non-conventional resources for CoMP operations. This segmentation creates clear boundaries and rules for resource usage, making management simpler despite supporting multiple operational modes. The UE follows specific rules to determine which resource type to use based on reception configuration, reducing management complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If conventional PUCCH resources are used, then resource allocation is simple, but orthogonal reception at multiple points cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation simplicityVSAvoidmulti-point reception capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics through conditional resource selection where the system transitions from simple conventional resource allocation to enhanced non-conventional resource allocation based on operational needs. When single-point reception is sufficient, conventional simple resources are used. When multi-point CoMP reception is required, the system dynamically switches to non-conventional resources with specific orthogonal characteristics, maintaining ease of operation through clear switching rules while enabling multi-point capability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9839010B2Transmission of acknowledgement signals from a user equipment for orthogonal reception at multiple points
Publication Date: 2017.12.05 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9839010B2 patent drawing
  • US9839010B2 patent drawing
  • US9839010B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and user equipment (UE) apparatuses are provided to transmit an acknowledgement/negative acknowledgement (ack/nack) signal. A method includes receiving configuration information through higher layer signaling; determining a first resource or a second resource based on the received configuration information; transmitting the ack/nack signal using a first sequence on the first resource, if the first resource is determined; and transmitting the ack/nack signal using a second sequence on the second resource, if the second resource is determined.