Synchronization Signal Block Offset Configuration in 5G Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication networks face challenges in flexibly utilizing multiple synchronization signal blocks, which are essential for effective terminal access and data transmission, due to limitations in arranging and distinguishing these blocks within a synchronization signal burst set.

Innovation Solution

The method involves generating synchronization signal blocks, configuring offsets for these blocks, and forming synchronization signal bursts, allowing for flexible arrangement and transmission of synchronization signals, including primary and secondary synchronization signals, using orthogonal frequency division multiplexing symbols and physical broadcast channels, with options for common, group-specific, or block-specific offsets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple synchronization signal blocks are arranged in a synchronization signal burst set, then the quantity of synchronization signals is increased, but the flexibility of utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantity of synchronization signal blocksVSAvoidflexibility of utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the synchronization signal block configuration adjustable and flexible. Different numbers of synchronization signal blocks (1, 2, 4, or 8 blocks) can be configured based on network conditions and requirements. The offset values for these blocks can be dynamically set to achieve consecutive or non-consecutive arrangements, allowing the system to adapt to various scenarios rather than being fixed in a rigid structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the offset parameters of synchronization signal blocks within the burst set. By changing offset values, the system can flexibly arrange blocks in consecutive or non-consecutive patterns. This parameter-based control enables the same basic structure to serve multiple purposes and adapt to different network conditions without requiring fundamental structural changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If synchronization signal blocks are arranged consecutively, then the arrangement is simplified, but the flexibility of configuration is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of arrangementVSAvoidflexibility of configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the arrangement dynamic by allowing the system to switch between consecutive and non-consecutive configurations based on needs. The offset parameters enable this dynamic adjustment, where consecutive arrangement provides simplicity for basic operations, while non-consecutive arrangement offers flexibility for advanced configurations and interference avoidance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the offset parameters, the system can transition between consecutive and non-consecutive arrangements. When offset values are set to create consecutive positions, the arrangement is simple and easy to manage. When offset values are adjusted to create gaps, the system gains flexibility for various configuration scenarios, thus resolving the contradiction through parameter control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional information is provided for terminal configuration, then the flexibility of utilization is improved, but the overhead is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of utilizationVSAvoidinformation overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling terminals to autonomously determine the configuration of synchronization signal blocks without requiring additional explicit information from the network. Terminals can identify the number of blocks, their positions, and offset values through existing signaling mechanisms and predefined rules, reducing information overhead while maintaining flexibility in utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses copying by leveraging existing information structures and signaling formats already present in the system. Rather than creating new information channels for block configuration, the system repurposes existing signaling resources to convey configuration details, thereby avoiding additional overhead while still providing necessary flexibility for terminal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10701647B2Operation method of communication node transmitting synchronization signal in communication network
Publication Date: 2020.06.30 ELECTRONICS & TELECOMM RES INST
  • US10701647B2 patent drawing
  • US10701647B2 patent drawing
  • US10701647B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operation method of a communication node transmitting a synchronization signal in a communication network may comprise generating a synchronization signal block including the synchronization signal; configuring an offset for the synchronization signal block; generating a synchronization signal burst including a plurality of the synchronization signal blocks based on the offset; and transmitting the synchronization signal based on a synchronization signal burst set including the plurality of the synchronization signal blocks. Accordingly, a terminal can dynamically and effectively utilize the plurality of synchronization signal blocks without using additional information.