Reverse Indexing for Uplink Control Channel Resource Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing ACK/NACK bundling approach in wireless communication systems is wasteful when UL resources are scarce, as it requires occupying a single PUCCH AN resource regardless of the number of DL HARQ acknowledgments, leading to over-reservation and inefficient use of UL resources.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a reverse indexing scheme for sub-frames in the PUCCH resource region, where the last indexed sub-frame is adjacent to a second resource region, allowing for temporary re-allocation of unused sub-frames from the first channel to the second channel, thereby optimizing resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ACK/NACK bundling is implemented to handle multiple DL HARQ acknowledgments, then the system can support more downlink subframes, but it causes over-reservation and waste of uplink resources when UL resources are scarce
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the PUCCH resource index is determined based on the actual number of downlink subframes and their utilization status. Instead of statically reserving resources for all possible DL subframes, the system dynamically adjusts the PUCCH resource assignment based on real-time channel conditions and actual DL traffic patterns, allowing resources to be released when not needed and allocated when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the indexing parameter organization from traditional forward indexing to reverse indexing, where the last indexed subframe is placed adjacent to the second resource region. This parameter reorganization enables more efficient resource allocation by allowing contiguous resource blocks to be allocated for consecutive subframes, reducing fragmentation and improving resource utilization efficiency.
2Reliability
If PUCCH resources are reserved for ACK/NACK transmission in TDD mode with more DL than UL subframes, then ACK/NACK bundling can be supported, but it leads to resource fragmentation and inefficient use of UL resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PUCCH resource region into multiple sub-regions corresponding to different downlink subframes. By organizing resources in reverse indexing order and placing the last indexed subframe adjacent to the second resource region, the system creates clearly defined segments that can be independently allocated and released, reducing resource fragmentation while maintaining reliable ACK/NACK transmission for each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension to resource allocation by organizing subframes in reverse indexing manner and positioning them adjacent to the second resource region. This dimensional reorganization transforms the resource allocation structure from a scattered pattern to a contiguous arrangement, enabling more efficient packing of resources and improving overall uplink resource utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling channel signaling between a UE and a wireless network access node is described. The method includes determining whether an examined sub-frame of a plurality of sub-frames in a first resource region is unused. The index of the examined sub-frame is a last index of the plurality of sub-frames allocated for use in a first channel. The plurality of sub-frames is organized in a reverse indexing manner such that a last indexed sub-frame is adjacent to a second resource region. The second resource region is allocated to a second channel. In response to determining that the examined sub-frame is unused, the examined sub-frame is re-allocated for temporary use in the second channel. The method also includes providing an indication of the allocation. Apparatus and computer readable media are also described.