Uplink Reference Signal Transmit Power Derivation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing transmit power for uplink reference signals, particularly in higher frequency bands where beamforming is complex and power control mechanisms are not effectively adapted to the specific needs of different beams, leading to reduced coverage and reliability.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for a User Equipment (UE) to derive and transmit different transmit powers for uplink reference signals (UL RS) using distinct power control mechanisms, where one power is associated with an uplink data channel and another is not, allowing for adaptive power control per beam to enhance coverage and reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a unified power control mechanism is used for all uplink reference signals, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the reliability and coverage are degraded due to inability to adapt to different beam requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the uplink reference signals into different types (e.g., SRS, DM-RS, CSI-RS) and applies distinct power control mechanisms to each type. This allows each reference signal to be optimized independently for its specific function, improving overall reliability without requiring complete redesign of the entire power control system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic power control parameters that can be adjusted based on beamforming configurations and channel conditions. The power control mechanism becomes adaptive, allowing the system to optimize reliability under varying operational conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through structured parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Area of stationary object

If adaptive power control per beam is implemented, then the coverage and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple power control mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecoverageVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different power control parameters and mechanisms to different spatial beams and reference signal types. Each beam can have locally optimized power control settings tailored to its specific channel characteristics and coverage requirements, enabling enhanced coverage without requiring uniform complexity across all beams.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes configurable power control parameters (such as power offsets, path loss compensation factors, and target received powers) that can be adjusted per beam and reference signal type. This allows coverage optimization through parameter tuning rather than structural redesign, managing complexity while achieving local quality improvements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple distinct power control mechanisms are used for different UL RS types, then the adaptability is improved for specific beam requirements, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex power derivation processes

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a unified power control framework that handles multiple reference signal types through a common set of principles and procedures. While specific parameters differ by RS type, the overall mechanism remains consistent, allowing the system to maintain adaptability across different scenarios while preserving ease of operation through standardized processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the UE to autonomously determine the appropriate power control mechanism and parameters based on received configuration information and channel conditions. The device self-configures its power control behavior without requiring manual intervention, maintaining adaptability while simplifying operation through automated decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11737030B2Method and apparatus for deriving transmit power of UL (uplink) RS (reference signal) in a wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2023.08.22 ASUSTEK COMPUTER INC
  • US11737030B2 patent drawing
  • US11737030B2 patent drawing
  • US11737030B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus are disclosed, from the perspective of a UE, for transmitting UL RS. In one embodiment, the method includes deriving a first transmit power of a first UL RS based on a first power control mechanism, wherein derivation of the first transmit power based on the first power control mechanism is associated with an uplink data channel. In addition, the method includes deriving a second transmit power of a second UL RS based on a second power control mechanism, wherein derivation of the second transmit power based on the second power control mechanism is not associated with the uplink data channel. Furthermore, the method includes transmitting the first UL RS with the first transmit power. The method also includes transmitting the second UL RS with the second transmit power.