Reference Signal Configuration for Multi-Subcarrier Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In next-generation wireless communications systems, such as New Radio (NR), the dynamic change in subcarrier spacing and subband locations within the system bandwidth poses challenges for sending reference signals effectively, as conventional methods struggle to meet the requirements of multiple subcarrier spacings and changing resource configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for sending reference signals, where a network device determines and configures different subcarrier spacings for separate subbands, allowing for the transmission of reference signals with distinct configurations, including subcarrier spacing, pattern, and timing, enabling the terminal to receive and feedback channel quality separately for each configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed and unique subcarrier spacing is used for sending reference signal, then the reference signal transmission is simple and follows a fixed pattern, but the system cannot support multiple subcarrier spacings and dynamic subband configurations required in next-generation wireless communications
Solution Approach 1:
The system bandwidth is divided into multiple subbands, with each subband configured to support a specific subcarrier spacing. This segmentation allows different parts of the spectrum to operate with different subcarrier spacings simultaneously, enabling multi-numerology support while maintaining manageable complexity within each subband.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration of subcarrier spacing and subband locations through network device signaling. The subcarrier spacing and subband assignments can be changed adaptively based on channel conditions and traffic requirements, allowing the system to transition from static to dynamic operation to support evolving communication needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the location of subband corresponding to a subcarrier spacing dynamically changes, then the system can adapt to varying channel conditions, but conventional reference signal sending methods cannot meet the measurement requirements for signals with different subcarrier spacings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring reference signals with specific properties tailored to each subband's subcarrier spacing. Each subband receives reference signals optimized for its local characteristics, ensuring accurate channel measurement and estimation adapted to the specific subcarrier spacing and bandwidth of that subband.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes reference signal parameters including subcarrier spacing, bandwidth, and time-frequency locations to match the configured subband settings. This parameter adaptation ensures that reference signals remain synchronized with the data channels, maintaining measurement precision even as subband locations and subcarrier spacings change dynamically.
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AI summary
A reference signal sending method and apparatus, and a reference signal receiving method and apparatus are provided. The method includes: determining, by a network device, a first configuration of a first reference signal and a second configuration of a second reference signal, where the first configuration includes a first subcarrier spacing, and the second configuration includes a second subcarrier spacing; and sending, by the network device on a first subband, the first reference signal meeting the first configuration, and sending, on a second subband, the second reference signal meeting the second configuration, where a parameter configuration of the first subband is different from a parameter configuration of the second subband.