Synchronization Signal Block Indication in 5G Wireless Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 5G communication systems face challenges in efficiently providing services due to limitations in frame structure scalability, subcarrier spacing, and synchronization signal block transmission, particularly in ultra-high frequency bands, which affect data transmission rates and latency.

Innovation Solution

The method involves configuring synchronization signal block indication information based on uplink-downlink slot configuration and subcarrier spacing, allowing for flexible transmission of synchronization signal blocks in half frames, and using different subcarrier spacings to optimize transmission patterns across various frequency bands.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed frame structure is used for synchronization signal block transmission, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different frequency bands and transmission patterns is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different frequency bandsVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic frame structures where the number and positioning of synchronization signal blocks can be flexibly adjusted based on frequency band requirements. The system allows dynamic selection of transmission patterns (e.g., different numbers of SSBs in different half-frames) and dynamic adjustment of subcarrier spacings (15kHz, 30kHz, 60kHz) to match specific deployment scenarios, transforming a static structure into an adaptive one that responds to varying channel conditions and service requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes key parameters including subcarrier spacing (supporting 15kHz, 30kHz, 60kHz), cyclic prefix lengths (normal and extended), and the number of synchronization signal blocks per half-frame based on frequency band and channel conditions. These parameter variations enable the system to optimize performance across different scenarios without requiring a completely different frame structure for each case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the number of synchronization signal blocks is increased to improve data transmission rates, then data transmission rate is improved, but system overhead and resource consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rateVSAvoidnumber of synchronization signal blocks
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the number of synchronization signal blocks transmitted in different half-frames based on channel conditions, frequency band, and service requirements. Rather than transmitting a fixed maximum number of SSBs continuously, the base station can adaptively select transmission patterns that optimize data transmission rates while controlling the actual number of SSBs transmitted in each time period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements transmission patterns where the number of synchronization signal blocks varies across different half-frames. Some half-frames may transmit fewer SSBs when channel conditions are good or traffic demand is low, while other half-frames transmit more SSBs when needed. This partial action approach ensures sufficient synchronization capability without continuously consuming maximum resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple subcarrier spacings are supported to enhance transmission flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity and configuration overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission flexibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the system configuration by defining distinct parameter sets for different frequency bands and service types. Each subcarrier spacing (15kHz, 30kHz, 60kHz) has predefined associations with specific frequency ranges and transmission patterns. This segmentation allows the system to support multiple spacings without requiring complex dynamic negotiation, as the appropriate configuration can be selected based on pre-established rules and band specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Loss of time

If synchronization signal blocks are transmitted more frequently to reduce latency, then latency is reduced, but resource consumption and interference increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovelatencyVSAvoidresource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic transmission of synchronization signal blocks with configurable periods and patterns. Instead of continuous transmission, SSBs are transmitted in periodic bursts according to defined patterns (e.g., every 5ms, 10ms, or other periods). This periodic action reduces average resource consumption compared to continuous transmission while maintaining low latency through appropriately configured transmission intervals and multiple SSB positions within each period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11985616B2Method and device for indicating synchronization signal block in wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2024.05.14 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11985616B2 patent drawing
  • US11985616B2 patent drawing
  • US11985616B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure provides a method of providing synchronization signal block indication information in a wireless communication system, the method including: configuring the synchronization signal block indication information, based on information regarding an uplink-downlink slot configuration and a subcarrier spacing at which a synchronization signal block is transmitted; transmitting the configured synchronization signal block indication information to a terminal; and transmitting at least one synchronization signal block, based on the configured synchronization signal block indication information.