Frame Timing Alignment Using SSB Reference Points in 6G
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Establishing frame timing alignment in future wireless communication networks, such as 6G, is challenging due to diverse frame structures and variable time gaps between downlink and uplink communications, which existing methods are not suitable for integrated communication and sensing, and require precise timing alignment across different bandwidth parts and symbol lengths.
Innovation Solution
Methods and apparatuses for timing alignment using configuration information, including compensation for propagation delay, determining timing reference points through synchronization signal blocks, and using frame timing for control resource set 0 location determination and system information block detection, enabling precise frame timing for both downlink and uplink communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing frame timing alignment methods are used, then current wireless networks (LTE, 5G) can maintain timing synchronization, but future networks (6G) with diverse frame structures and integrated communication-sensing cannot achieve standardized timing alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the timing alignment process into distinct phases: initial access phase using non-reference timing point frame timing for SSB detection, followed by a second phase using reference timing point frame timing for other signaling. This segmentation allows each phase to use the most appropriate timing method for its specific requirements, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic switching between two types of frame timing methods based on the operational phase and requirements. The system dynamically transitions from non-reference timing point frame timing during initial access to reference timing point frame timing for subsequent communications, enabling adaptability to different network conditions while maintaining reliability through standardized reference-based timing.
2Measurement precision
If frame timing is established based on timing reference points, then precise timing alignment can be achieved, but propagation delay compensation becomes complex and requires additional signaling overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring timing reference point information in system information blocks during network deployment. This allows terminal devices to obtain timing reference points without complex real-time calculations or additional signaling overhead during operation, reducing device complexity while maintaining high timing alignment precision.
3Ease of operation
If gap between downlink and uplink is defined in symbols, then timing alignment is straightforward, but air interface overhead increases and flexibility is reduced for future networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the time unit parameter from symbol-based to a finer granularity that allows sub-symbol precision. By introducing timing reference points that can be positioned at sub-symbol levels, the system achieves more precise timing alignment with reduced overhead, as the gap between downlink and uplink can be accurately defined without requiring full symbol boundaries.
4Adaptability or versatility
If different waveform types are used in different bandwidth parts for communication and sensing, then functional requirements are met, but standardized frame timing alignment becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal timing reference point mechanism that works across different waveform types and bandwidth parts. The reference timing point serves as a common reference for both communication and sensing bandwidth parts, enabling standardized timing alignment despite the use of different waveform types (single-carrier OFDM for sensing, multi-carrier OFDM for communication).
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal side device may detect a SSB using a non-reference timing point frame timing. Based on information in the SSB, the terminal side device may be able to determine timing reference point information. The terminal side device may then be able to use the reference timing point frame timing for other signaling.