Relay Node Signal Reception Timing in LTE-A Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the LTE-A system, relay nodes (RN) are not aware of specific times for receiving control information and data from eNodeB, leading to deteriorated signal reception efficiency, and there is a lack of methods for allocating reference signals and control channels for efficient signal transmission/reception.
Innovation Solution
A method for a relay node to receive signals by identifying start points of relay-physical downlink control channel (R-PDCCH) and relay-physical downlink shared channel (R-PDSCH) used in a specific downlink subframe, with the eNodeB allocating reference signals for channel estimation and demodulation, allowing the RN to correctly estimate the downlink channel state and receive data efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If relay node (RN) is installed to improve channel conditions and extend coverage, then service coverage and data processing rate are improved, but signal reception efficiency deteriorates because RN is not aware of specific reception times
Solution Approach 1:
The eNodeB performs preliminary action by allocating specific time resources (RN zones) and reference signals to the relay node before actual signal transmission. This allows the RN to know in advance when to expect control information and data, enabling it to wake up or activate its receiver at precise moments rather than continuously monitoring, thus improving reception efficiency while maintaining extended coverage
2Speed
If relay node (RN) is installed to provide higher-speed data channel, then data processing rate is improved, but signal reception efficiency deteriorates due to lack of reception timing information
Solution Approach 1:
The eNodeB allocates reference signals and control channel resources to the RN in advance through pre-configured RN zones. This preliminary allocation enables the RN to efficiently process data at high speeds by knowing exactly when to receive transmissions, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and improving overall reception efficiency while maintaining high data processing rates
3Area of stationary object
If relay node (RN) is installed to extend cell service region, then service coverage is improved, but signal reception efficiency deteriorates because RN does not know specific reception times
Solution Approach 1:
The eNodeB performs preliminary allocation of time-frequency resources and reference signals for the RN through configured RN zones before actual communication occurs. This ensures that the RN, located at extended cell edges, can reliably receive control information and data at specific predetermined times, improving reception reliability while maintaining extended service region coverage
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method for receiving information on a relay node zone and reference signals for a relay node from a base station, and a relay node device using same. The relay node can receive information on at least one start point from the start points of a Relay-Physical Downlink Control Channel (R-PDCCH) and a Relay-Physical Downlink Shared Channel (R-PDSCH) for transmitting a signal from a base station to a relay node in a specific downlink subframe. Alternatively, the relay node can implicitly recognize the start points of the R-PDCCH and R-PDSCH set in advance. The relay node can recognize a signal from the base station in the specific downlink subframe based on the start point information after the time corresponding to at least one of the start points of the R-PDCCH and R-PDSCH. Also, the relay node can decode signals transmitted from a base station after the corresponding timing.