Random Access Uplink Carrier Selection for RedCap Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G/NR wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing random access procedures, particularly in selecting the appropriate uplink carrier for user equipment (UE) to ensure optimal network access and resource allocation, especially for RedCap UEs with different bandwidth and latency requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where user equipment (UE) selects the uplink carrier based on a threshold value (rsrp-ThresholdSSB-SUL-RedCap) indicated in the System Information Block (SIB), allowing it to choose between supplementary and normal uplink carriers for random access, optimizing carrier selection for different UE types and network conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RedCap UEs use the normal uplink carrier for random access, then the random access procedure can be performed with standard bandwidth, but the access quality and network efficiency deteriorate for UEs with different bandwidth requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces supplementary uplink (SUL) carriers with specific bandwidth characteristics tailored for RedCap UEs. Different UL carriers (normal and supplementary) are configured with different bandwidth properties, allowing RedCap UEs to select the most appropriate carrier based on their specific bandwidth requirements and channel conditions, thereby improving access quality without compromising standard UE compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic carrier selection mechanisms where RedCap UEs can adaptively choose between normal and supplementary uplink carriers based on real-time conditions. The network can dynamically configure and indicate which SUL carriers are available, and UEs can dynamically select carriers based on RSRP thresholds and their own capabilities, enabling flexible adaptation to changing network conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple uplink carriers are configured for random access, then diverse UE types can be supported, but the device complexity and configuration overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of carrier configuration by introducing a threshold-based selection mechanism (rsrp-ThresholdSSB-SUL-RedCap). Instead of complex multi-parameter configurations, the system uses a simple RSRP threshold comparison that RedCap UEs perform to select between normal and supplementary carriers. This parameter-based approach simplifies device complexity while maintaining the ability to support diverse UE types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the uplink carrier configuration into distinct types (normal UL carriers and supplementary UL carriers) with clearly defined purposes. Each carrier type has specific characteristics and selection criteria, allowing the system to manage multiple carriers through organized segmentation rather than monolithic configuration, reducing overall system complexity
3Reliability
If RedCap UEs perform random access on supplementary uplink carrier, then access quality improves for specific bandwidth requirements, but the network resource allocation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where RedCap UEs autonomously determine which uplink carrier to use for random access based on pre-configured RSRP thresholds and their own measurements. The UE independently evaluates channel conditions and selects the appropriate carrier without requiring complex real-time network intervention, thereby improving access quality while keeping network resource allocation manageable through autonomous UE decision-making
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for random access procedures in a wireless communication system. A method for operating a user equipment (UE) includes receiving a system information block (SIB) in a downlink bandwidth (DL) part (BWP). The DL BWP is linked to a first uplink (UL) BWP. The SIB includes an indication for one or more UL BWPs. The method further includes transmitting a physical random access channel (PRACH) in a second UL BWP from the one or more UL BWPs. The second UL BWP is different than the first UL BWP.