Reference Signal Allocation for MU-MIMO Orthogonality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication specifications cannot multiplex downlink and uplink reference signals using a common set of orthogonal RS ports, failing to meet the new requirements imposed by increasing antenna ports and frequency bands, especially in Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO) scenarios.
Innovation Solution
Determine a plurality of RS configurations based on different RS ports and/or sequences of the same type, allowing the network device to allocate subsets for downlink and uplink RS transmissions, ensuring orthogonality and quasi-orthogonality between RS configurations for shared resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional reference signal structures are used, then compatibility with existing specifications is maintained, but the ability to multiplex downlink and uplink RS in shared resources is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RS configuration space by dividing RS ports into first set (for downlink RS) and second set (for uplink RS). This segmentation enables independent configuration and allocation of RS resources for different transmission directions while maintaining overall system coherence, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal RS configuration framework where the same configuration mechanism serves both downlink and uplink RS transmissions. By defining a unified set of configuration parameters that can be applied to both directions, the system achieves multi-functionality without requiring separate independent configuration systems, thus improving adaptability while controlling complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more antenna ports are added to meet new communication requirements, then transmission capability is improved, but RS orthogonality and interference cancellation are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different RS port sets to different transmission directions. The first set of RS ports is dedicated to downlink RS with specific orthogonality properties, while the second set is dedicated to uplink RS. This localized differentiation maintains orthogonality within each direction while allowing flexible antenna port configuration overall, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and orthogonality.
3Reliability
If downlink and uplink RS use separate resource allocations, then interference between directions is reduced, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RS configuration frameworks for downlink and uplink transmissions by using a unified configuration determination process. Both directions share common configuration parameters and allocation mechanisms, enabling resource sharing while maintaining directional orthogonality through the segmented port sets. This merging approach improves resource utilization efficiency while preserving interference cancellation capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and devices for reference signal allocation. In example embodiments, a method implemented in a network device is provided. According to the method, a plurality of RS configurations are determined based on at least one of the following: different RS ports, or different RS sequences of a same type. At least one first RS configuration from the plurality of RS configurations are allocated for uplink RS transmission by a terminal device served by the network device, and at least one second RS configuration from the plurality of RS configurations are allocated for downlink RS transmission by the network device.