Tracking Reference Signal Configuration for Wireless Overhead Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication technologies, such as LTE and NR, face challenges in optimizing reference signal configurations for tracking operations in wireless communication networks, leading to inefficiencies in resource utilization and performance.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a base station determines a signal configuration for transmitting a tracking reference signal (TRS) based on signal information from user equipment, selecting a subset of locations within a transmission window to reduce overhead while maintaining performance, and transmits the TRS accordingly, allowing for improved tracking measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reference signals are transmitted frequently to improve tracking performance, then tracking accuracy is improved, but network overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference signal transmission is segmented into two distinct types: tracking reference signals (TRS) for frequency and timing tracking, and phase tracking reference signals (PTRS) for phase compensation. Each type serves a specific tracking function and is transmitted according to different conditions, allowing the system to optimize overhead for each function separately rather than transmitting all reference signals continuously at high frequency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic determination of reference signal transmission parameters including frequency, time, and resource allocation based on current channel conditions, UE mobility state, and service requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to transmit reference signals only when and where needed, improving tracking accuracy during high mobility while reducing overhead during stable conditions
2Measurement precision
If reference signals are transmitted with high density to improve tracking performance, then measurement accuracy is improved, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different reference signal configurations are applied to different UEs based on their specific needs. Mobile UEs receive more frequent TRS transmissions for frequency and timing tracking, while stationary UEs receive less frequent transmissions. Similarly, UEs experiencing phase instability receive PTRS transmissions while others do not, optimizing resource utilization according to local conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts reference signal parameters including transmission frequency, time domain location, frequency domain location, and resource element allocation based on channel conditions and UE state. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain measurement accuracy by increasing reference signal density only when and where needed, rather than maintaining high density universally
3Reliability
If tracking reference signals are transmitted continuously to maintain tracking performance, then tracking reliability is improved, but processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous transmission, the patent implements periodic TRS transmission with configurable periods adapted to UE mobility state and service requirements. For example, high mobility UEs may receive TRS every slot or every other slot, while low mobility UEs receive TRS less frequently. This periodic approach maintains tracking reliability during mobility events while significantly reducing processing overhead during stable periods
Solution Approach 2:
The UE autonomously determines its own tracking requirements based on measured channel conditions and mobility state, then requests appropriate reference signal configurations from the network. This self-service approach allows the UE to maintain tracking reliability by requesting reference signals only when needed based on its own state, rather than receiving continuous transmissions regardless of need
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. The apparatus may determine a signal configuration for transmitting a tracking reference signal (TRS) to a user equipment (UE). The signal configuration may identify a subset of locations, of a set of locations included in a transmission window, that is to be used to transmit the TRS, and the signal configuration may be selected to assist the UE with one or more measurements. The apparatus may transmit, based at least in part on the signal configuration, the TRS in the subset of locations. Numerous other aspects are provided.