TRS-Based Scell Activation for Faster Time-Frequency Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

The latency in activating a Secondary Cell (Scell) via MAC CE is prolonged due to the need for Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) detection, which affects the time when data can be transmitted, and there is a need for a faster activation mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for activating a TRS (Tracking Reference Signal) to facilitate fast activation of Scell by configuring and measuring the TRS for time-frequency synchronization, using RRC signaling and MAC CE instructions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If Scell is activated via MAC CE, then data transmission can be enabled, but latency is prolonged due to SSB detection time

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveScell activation latencyVSAvoidtime-frequency synchronization accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The TRS is activated in advance before data transmission is needed. The network device sends a first activation instruction to activate the TRS, and the terminal device measures the TRS to achieve time-frequency synchronization with the Scell before actual data transmission begins. This preliminary synchronization action reduces the overall activation latency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The TRS serves as an intermediary signal between the SSB and data transmission. Instead of directly using SSB for synchronization (which has long period timing), the TRS is introduced as an intermediate reference signal that provides more frequent and timely synchronization opportunities, bridging the gap between SSB activation and actual data transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of time

If TRS is activated for fast Scell activation, then latency is reduced, but device complexity increases due to additional signaling

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveScell activation latencyVSAvoidsignaling complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first activation instruction serves multiple functions: it simultaneously activates both the TRS and indicates the Scell activation state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate signaling messages, thereby reducing overall signaling complexity while enabling fast Scell activation through TRS measurement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Area of stationary object

If SSB period is extended, then coverage is improved, but Scell activation time is delayed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidScell activation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The TRS acts as an intermediary synchronization signal that decouples the Scell activation timing from the SSB period. By using TRS for time-frequency synchronization instead of waiting for the next SSB occurrence, the system can achieve fast activation regardless of the SSB period length, thus resolving the conflict between extended coverage (long SSB period) and fast activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12477487B2Method and apparatus for triggering TRS activation, terminal device, and network device

Publication Date: 2025.11.18 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD

AI summary

A method and apparatus for TRS activation, a terminal device, and a network device are provided. The method comprises: a terminal device receives a first activation instruction sent by a network device, the first activation instruction being used for activating a TRS, and the TRS being used for fast Scell activation; and the terminal device measures the TRS, the measured TRS being used for time-frequency synchronization with a Scell.