Wireless Device Uplink Reference Signal Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication networks, especially in full dimension (FD) MIMO systems, acquiring Channel State Information (CSI) through uplink reference signals is energy inefficient and limited in coverage, particularly for cell edge devices, due to the need for frequent and powerful pilot transmissions, which drains battery life and reduces network performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where wireless devices beamform uplink reference signals only when certain conditions are met, such as low signal strength, using precoding techniques to increase the energy received at the radio network node, thereby improving channel estimation reliability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If uplink reference signals are transmitted frequently and with high power for channel estimation in FD MIMO systems, then channel estimation reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases and coverage is limited for cell edge devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the transmission parameters of uplink reference signals by introducing beamforming techniques and adjusting signal characteristics based on channel conditions. The wireless device applies precoding matrices to transform the reference signal transmission, allowing reliable channel estimation at the network side while reducing the required transmission power and energy consumption at the device side.
2Area of stationary object
If uplink reference signals are transmitted with high power to extend coverage, then coverage is improved, but battery life of mobile devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces beamforming as an intermediary technique that focuses the transmitted energy in specific directions rather than omnidirectionally. This allows the reference signal to reach cell edge devices with sufficient power while consuming less total energy, as the energy is concentrated where needed rather than wasted in other directions.
3Use of energy by moving object
If beamforming is applied to uplink reference signals, then energy efficiency and coverage are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the wireless device determine beamforming parameters and select precoding matrices before transmitting the uplink reference signal. The device prepares the beamforming configuration in advance based on stored precoding matrices and current channel conditions, which simplifies the transmission process and reduces real-time computational complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the energy efficiency and coverage of uplink channel sounding, leading to improved performance and reduced power consumption for battery-limited devices, while maintaining reciprocity-based CSI acquisition in MIMO systems.
Implementation Method 1
The wireless device beamforms a transmission of an uplink reference signal for channel estimation when a condition is fulfilled
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to a method performed by a wireless device (10) for transmitting uplink reference signal to a radio network node in a wireless communication network. The wireless device (10) determines to beamform a transmission of an uplink reference signal for channel estimation when a condition is fulfilled. The wireless device (10) transmits the uplink reference signal to the radio network node (12) in a beamformed manner when the condition is fulfilled.