Uplink Delay Reporting for LBT-Constrained URLLC Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless networks operating in unlicensed spectrum, dynamic uplink scheduling is challenged by Listen-Before-Talk (LBT) procedures causing significant delays and performance degradation, especially for ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) services, due to increased packet latency and inability to prioritize data packets based on latency requirements.
Innovation Solution
A terminal device performs channel availability monitoring and determines delay information related to this monitoring, which is then transmitted to the radio access network (RAN), allowing the RAN to make informed scheduling decisions and optimize channel access priority classes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If Listen-Before-Talk (LBT) procedures are used for channel access in unlicensed spectrum, then channel sharing and coexistence are improved, but packet latency increases and reliability of URLLC services deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the terminal device reports delay information and channel access status to the network node. This feedback enables the network to adjust scheduling decisions dynamically, compensating for LBT-induced delays and maintaining URLLC service reliability while allowing channel sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic scheduling adjustments based on real-time channel access conditions. The network node modifies scheduling parameters such as time offsets and resource allocations according to LBT outcomes, enabling adaptive operation that maintains reliability despite variable channel access delays.
2Productivity
If Listen-Before-Talk (LBT) procedures are implemented for unlicensed spectrum access, then spectrum sharing efficiency is improved, but packet latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having terminal devices perform channel sensing and prepare transmission buffers before actual data transmission. The network node also pre-configures multiple uplink resources and scheduling parameters in advance, allowing rapid response when channel becomes available, thus reducing latency while maintaining spectrum sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes scheduling parameters including time offsets, resource block allocations, and modulation schemes based on channel access conditions and delay information. This parameter adaptation allows the system to optimize between spectrum sharing efficiency and latency reduction for different traffic conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic uplink scheduling is used in unlicensed spectrum, then resource allocation flexibility is improved, but performance degradation occurs due to LBT delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback loops where delay information from LBT procedures is reported to the network node, which then adjusts subsequent scheduling decisions. This closed-loop control maintains resource allocation flexibility while compensating for performance degradation through adaptive rescheduling and parameter optimization.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus, method and computer program product for: performing channel availability monitoring on an operating channel for transmitting uplink control information for transmitting a data packet, in response to determining that the operating channel is available for transmitting the uplink control information, determining delay information relating to the channel availability monitoring, and transmitting the uplink control information and the delay information to the radio access network.