Unlicensed Carrier Contention Window Size Determination

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing contention window size determination methods for unlicensed spectrum access in NR-U systems do not effectively ensure friendly coexistence among various communication systems, due to differences in slot structures and timing in NR-U compared to LTE-LAA systems.

Innovation Solution

A method for determining a contention window size (CWS) is introduced, which involves determining a reference time unit on an unlicensed carrier and using it to set the CWS for channel sensing, allowing for flexible adjustment based on channel access priorities and feedback information, such as HARQ-ACK and random access processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the existing contention window size determination method for LTE-LAA systems is used in NR-U systems, then the channel access mechanism is simple, but the coexistence among various communication systems deteriorates due to differences in slot structures and timing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoexistence among communication systemsVSAvoidchannel access mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the contention window size (CWS) based on channel access priorities and feedback information. The CWS is determined according to specific parameters including channel access priority, HARQ-ACK feedback, and random access processes, allowing the NR-U system to adapt its channel access behavior to match different scenarios and improve coexistence with other systems while managing complexity through structured parameter-based decisions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the CWS is dynamically adjusted based on channel access priorities and feedback information, then the channel access efficiency is improved, but the determination process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel access efficiencyVSAvoidCWS determination process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the CWS determination process utilizes HARQ-ACK feedback information and random access process outcomes to dynamically adjust the contention window size. This feedback-driven approach improves channel access efficiency by adapting to actual channel conditions and transmission outcomes, while the structured feedback processing maintains manageable complexity through defined feedback types and adjustment rules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by making the CWS a variable parameter that changes based on channel access priorities, feedback information, and transmission outcomes. Rather than using a fixed CWS, the system dynamically adjusts the window size to optimize channel access efficiency for different traffic types, priority levels, and channel conditions, balancing performance improvement with controlled complexity through systematic adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12022508B2Competition window size determination method and related product
Publication Date: 2024.06.25 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • US12022508B2 patent drawing
  • US12022508B2 patent drawing
  • US12022508B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A competition window size determination method and a related product are disclosed in implementations of the present disclosure, wherein the method includes: determining a reference time unit on an unlicensed carrier; and determining a CWS on the unlicensed carrier according to the reference time unit. The implementations of the present disclosure can be used for determining or adjusting the CWS in a channel access scheme on the unlicensed carrier, to achieve friendly coexistence between systems on an unlicensed spectrum.