Sidelink Synchronization Signal Prioritization in Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless networks face challenges in efficient resource utilization due to multiple devices sharing resources, with some devices limited by communication protocols or hardware bandwidth, and the need to operate with both new and legacy protocols, affecting bandwidth and response times.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where user equipment (UE) in wireless networks prioritizes synchronization signals for sidelink communication, selecting between LTE, NR, and sidelink synchronization signals based on signal quality and synchronization hop information to determine reference timing for sidelink transmissions, ensuring efficient resource allocation and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices share wireless network resources, then device connectivity and communication capability are improved, but resource efficiency and response times deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices perform synchronization signal detection and selection before actual data transmission begins. The UE detects multiple synchronization signals from different sources (network nodes and other UEs), selects the appropriate reference signal based on prioritization rules, and configures its timing accordingly in advance. This preliminary synchronization setup enables efficient resource sharing without requiring real-time coordination during data transmission, thus improving both connectivity and resource efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices operate with multiple protocols (newer and legacy), then protocol compatibility and device versatility are improved, but bandwidth utilization and response times deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing protocol-specific prioritization rules for different synchronization signal types. The system treats different protocol elements (LTE synchronization signals, NR synchronization signals, and sidelink synchronization signals) differently based on their protocol requirements and network conditions. This allows the UE to optimize bandwidth utilization for each protocol type while maintaining overall compatibility, resolving the contradiction between supporting multiple protocols and efficiently utilizing bandwidth.
3Ease of operation
If synchronization signal selection is based on signal quality alone, then simplicity of the selection process is improved, but synchronization accuracy and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by extending the selection criteria beyond simple signal quality measurements to include multiple parameters such as synchronization hop information, signal type identification, and network conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the prioritization rules based on the current operational context, such as whether the UE is in coverage, the type of synchronization signal detected, and the network deployment scenario. This multi-parameter approach maintains ease of operation through automated selection while significantly improving synchronization accuracy and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a User Equipment (UE) and methods of communication are generally described herein. The UE may attempt to detect synchronization signals, including Long Term Evolution (LTE) synchronization signals from eNBs, New Radio (NR) synchronization signals from gNBs, and sidelink synchronization signals (SLSSs) from other UEs. The UE may prioritize an LTE synchronization signal over an SLSS, and may prioritize an NR synchronization signal over an SLSS. If the UE does not detect an LTE synchronization signal or an NR synchronization signal, the UE may select an SLSS. The UE may prioritize an SLSS from a UE that is directly synchronized to an eNB or a gNB over an SLSS from another UE that is indirectly synchronized to an eNB or a gNB.