Multi-Hop Sidelink Relay Signaling for Extended NR Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sidelink relay operations in NR are limited to single-hop configurations, which restrict their applicability in scenarios requiring extended coverage, necessitating support for multi-hop relay operations, especially in environments where base station coverage is exceeded.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for multi-hop sidelink relay operations involving intermediate and last relay UEs, where intermediate relay UEs receive and transmit sidelink RRC messages to child relay UEs, and last relay UEs receive system information requests from intermediate UEs and transmit notification information, enabling multi-hop communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If single-hop relay operation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but coverage area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay operation into distinct roles (intermediate relay UE and last relay UE) to enable multi-hop communication. Each relay UE processes signaling messages differently based on its role, allowing the system to extend coverage area while managing complexity through standardized role-based processing procedures.
2Area of stationary object
If multi-hop relay operation is implemented, then coverage area is extended, but signaling message processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate relay UEs as mediators in the multi-hop relay chain. These intermediate relay UEs receive signaling messages from parent relay UEs and forward them to child relay UEs, enabling extended coverage while distributing the signaling message processing burden across multiple nodes rather than concentrating it in a single relay.
3Length of stationary object
If multi-hop relay operation is implemented, then connectivity range is extended, but message transmission reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by ensuring that all relay UEs (intermediate and last) follow standardized procedures for receiving, processing, and forwarding signaling messages. This uniform approach across different relay nodes maintains message transmission reliability while enabling extended communication range through multiple hops.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a signaling message processing method and device for supporting a multi-hop-based sidelink relay. The method may include receiving, from a parent relay UE, a sidelink RRC message including system information for a remote UE or notification information of a last relay UE and transmitting the sidelink RRC message to a child relay UE.