Same-Direction Subframe Guard Periods for RF Beam Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of beam switching latency in wireless networks operating at higher carrier frequencies, such as those used in 5G systems, necessitates the introduction of guard periods to allow time for RF beam switching between subframe portions, especially in hybrid antenna architectures where beamforming is required.
Innovation Solution
Implementing guard periods (GP2 and GP3) between subframe portions of the same link direction within a subframe or between different subframes to facilitate RF beam switching, allowing for configurable grid configurations and dynamic signaling to manage beam switching times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If beamforming is used to compensate for increased attenuation at higher carrier frequencies, then signal quality is improved, but beam switching latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by inserting guard periods before actual data transmission to pre-establish the necessary beam switching time. These guard periods are configured in advance within the subframe structure, allowing the RF beam to switch to the correct direction before data transmission begins, thereby eliminating beam switching latency from the data transmission timeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the subframe structure by dividing it into multiple portions with guard periods inserted between them. This segmentation creates dedicated time intervals for beam switching operations, separating the beam switching function from the data transmission function. The subframe is divided into configurable portions that can accommodate different beam switching requirements.
2Loss of time
If guard periods are inserted to allow beam switching time, then beam switching latency is reduced, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the guard period configuration flexible and adaptable. The network can dynamically configure the presence, position, and duration of guard periods based on actual beam switching requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the system to minimize guard period overhead when beam switching is not required, thereby optimizing resource utilization while still providing necessary beam switching time when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of guard period configuration from fixed to variable. The subframe structure allows for configurable guard periods that can be adjusted in duration and position based on traffic conditions and beam switching requirements. This parameter change enables the system to optimize the balance between beam switching latency and resource utilization efficiency by adapting to different operational scenarios.
Data Source
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AI summary
A technique may include sending, by a base station to at least one user device, a signal indicating a configuration of at least one guard period, wherein the at least one guard period is provided between subframe portions of a same link direction. According to an example implementation, the at least one guard period may include one or more of: at least one first guard period provided between subframe portions of a same link direction within a subframe, and at least one second guard period provided between subframe portions of a same link direction of different subframes.