Terminal Control Signaling for SL-U COT Sharing Coordination

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Solution Overview

Problem

In sidelink over unlicensed spectrum (SL-U) systems, the sharing of channel occupancy time (COT) between terminals is not effectively managed, leading to inefficiencies in resource utilization and channel contention.

Innovation Solution

A communication method and terminal device that includes sending and receiving control information containing COT sharing information, utilizing a transceiver, processor, and memory to facilitate efficient COT sharing among terminals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If COT sharing mechanism is implemented in SL-U system, then resource utilization is improved, but channel contention management becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidchannel contention management

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the COT sharing mechanism into distinct LBT modes (Type 1 and Type 2) with specific procedures for each mode. Type 1 LBT is used for initial channel access while Type 2 LBT is used for subsequent transmissions within the shared COT. This segmentation simplifies the overall management by providing clear, mode-specific rules rather than a single complex contention mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary signaling mechanism where the gNB provides COT sharing information to UEs through downlink control information (DCI). This intermediary signaling acts as a mediator that coordinates channel access between the network and multiple UEs, reducing direct contention complexity by having the network manage and distribute COT allocation information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If terminals access channel through Type 2 LBT modes for COT sharing, then resource utilization is improved, but channel access coordination becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidchannel access coordination

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the gNB pre-configure COT sharing information and LBT parameters before UE channel access. The network performs preliminary channel assessment and prepares COT allocation information in advance, which is then provided to UEs through signaling. This preliminary preparation simplifies subsequent UE channel access operations by providing pre-coordinated parameters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where UEs report channel access status and reception status back to the gNB. The gNB uses this feedback to adjust COT sharing information and LBT parameters for subsequent transmissions. This closed-loop feedback system improves channel access coordination by continuously adapting to actual channel conditions and UE performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20260020060A1Communication method and terminal

Publication Date: 2026.01.15 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD

AI summary

A communication method and a terminal are provided. The method includes the following. A first terminal sends first control information, where the first control information contains channel occupancy time (COT) sharing information. In embodiments of the disclosure, first control information sent by a terminal contains COT sharing information.