Multicarrier Uplink TTI Configuration in UMTS Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication network standards for UMTS do not allow for the configuration of different transmission time intervals (TTIs) for uplink carriers in multicarrier operations, limiting the flexibility and efficiency of data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and network node configuration that enables the terminal device to operate with multiple uplink carriers having distinct TTIs by sending specific messages to configure the device with separate TTI parameters for each carrier, using information elements like 'Uplink secondary cell info FDD' to indicate TTI-specific parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current UMTS standards are used for multicarrier operation, then the system maintains standard compliance and basic operation, but the transmission time interval configuration is limited and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a new information element 'ttt-ConfigPerCarrier-v1330' that contains 'ttiLength' parameters specific to each uplink carrier. This allows the TTI length to be configured independently for each carrier (e.g., 2ms for primary carrier, 10ms for secondary carrier), transforming the fixed TTI configuration into a flexible, carrier-specific parameter setup that resolves the contradiction between standard compliance and configuration flexibility.
2Productivity
If different TTIs are configured for each carrier, then data transmission throughput and flexibility are enhanced, but the configuration complexity and message structure become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the TTI configuration into carrier-specific segments within the 'ttt-ConfigPerCarrier-v1330' information element. Each uplink carrier (primary and secondary) has its own 'ttiLength' parameter, allowing independent configuration. This segmented approach enables different TTIs per carrier to boost throughput while organizing the complexity into manageable, structured segments rather than a monolithic configuration.
3Ease of operation
If a single TTI is used for both carriers, then the configuration is simpler and easier to manage, but the efficiency and adaptability of multicarrier operation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the 'ttt-ConfigPerCarrier-v1330' information element to work across both primary and secondary uplink carriers while allowing carrier-specific customization. The configuration structure is universal enough to handle both carriers but flexible enough to apply different TTI lengths to each, enabling the system to maintain ease of operation through a standardized message format while achieving multicarrier operation efficiency through differentiated TTI settings.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an aspect, there is provided a method of operating a network node in a communication network to configure a terminal device for uplink multicarrier operation for transmissions from the terminal device to a radio access node in the communication network, the method comprising initiating (101) the sending of a message to the terminal device to configure the terminal device to operate with a first uplink carrier having a first transmission time interval, TTI, and a second uplink carrier having a second TTI, wherein the message configures the terminal device with a single transport channel for the first uplink carrier and the second uplink carrier, wherein the single transport channel has the first TTI and the second TTI, wherein the message comprises an "Uplink secondary cell info FDD" information element, IE, that indicates parameters that are specific to the TTI of the second uplink carrier.