Unified TCI State Framework for Multi-TRP Spatial Filter Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly in multiple transmission reception point (TRP) systems, face challenges in efficiently managing and updating spatial filter indications for reference signals, leading to suboptimal performance in beam management and data transmission due to limited capabilities in handling multiple TRPs and dynamic beam switching.
Innovation Solution
A unified TCI state framework is introduced to provide common spatial filter indications for both downlink and uplink reference signals, allowing for the association of multiple TRPs with joint or separate TCI states, enabling efficient quasi-co-location (QCL) information sharing and dynamic spatial filter updates through MAC CE and DCI signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate TCI states are configured for each reference signal in multi-TRP systems, then spatial filter management flexibility is improved, but system complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a unified TCI state framework where a single TCI state can serve multiple reference signals across different TRPs. The unified TCI state contains QCL information that can be applied to multiple DL/UL reference signals, eliminating the need for separate TCI state configurations for each reference signal while maintaining the ability to handle multi-TRP scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate TCI state configurations into a single unified TCI state that manages spatial filters for multiple TRPs. By combining the functionality of multiple TCI states into one, the system reduces configuration complexity and signaling overhead while preserving the adaptability needed for multi-TRP operations through the association of multiple reference signals with the unified TCI state.
2Reliability
If frequent updates of spatial filter indications are performed, then beam management performance is improved, but signaling overhead and processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses MAC CE signaling to pre-configure and activate a subset of TCI states before they are needed for actual transmission. This preliminary activation allows the system to have spatial filter indications ready in advance, enabling fast switching when needed without requiring frequent update signaling. The DCI can then quickly indicate which pre-configured TCI state to use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic TCI state management system where the set of activated TCI states can be flexibly adjusted through MAC CE signaling, and the specific TCI state used for each transmission can be dynamically selected through DCI. This dynamic framework allows the system to adapt to changing channel conditions and mobility scenarios while maintaining efficient signaling through the two-stage configuration and activation approach.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, network node and wireless device (WD) for common spatial filter indications for reference signals in multiple transmission reception point (TRP) systems are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method in a WD includes receiving at least one of an activation command and an indication for a first and second unified transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state of a plurality of unified TCI states, each of the first and second unified TCI states including quasi co-location (QCL) information for at least one of downlink reception and uplink transmission of a plurality of at least one of physical channels and reference signals by the WD. The method also includes receiving an association of each of a plurality of references signals with one of the first and second unified TCI states.