Uplink Channel Repetition Scheduling for Reduced-Capability UE Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently transmitting uplink channels, particularly for UEs with reduced capabilities, such as those with fewer antennas or lower transmit power, which experience coverage limitations due to path loss.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for transmitting uplink channels, including physical uplink shared channels (PUSCH) and control channels (PUCCH), where a user equipment (UE) or base station determines the availability of slots for repetitions based on configuration information, counter values, and indications for transmission or reception, allowing for flexible repetition strategies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If repetitions are transmitted in consecutive slots, then coverage is improved for UEs with reduced capabilities, but network operation efficiency deteriorates due to fixed repetition requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the repetition transmission adaptive rather than fixed. The UE dynamically determines whether to transmit repetitions based on real-time channel conditions, path loss measurements, and network configuration. This allows the system to adjust repetition behavior from slot to slot, improving coverage when needed while maintaining efficiency when conditions permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of repetition transmission from a static configuration to a dynamic parameter that varies based on channel conditions. The system modifies transmission parameters (repetition factor, timing, resource allocation) according to measured path loss and network state, enabling flexible optimization between coverage and efficiency.
2Reliability
If fixed number of repetitions is required, then reception reliability is improved, but flexibility in slot availability determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the network configure repetition parameters and slot availability rules in advance through RRC signaling. The UE receives configuration information about counting methods (consecutive slots vs. transmitted repetitions) and uses this pre-established framework to make real-time decisions about slot availability, combining reliability with flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the UE reports channel conditions and transmission status to the network. This feedback loop enables the network to adjust repetition configurations dynamically, balancing reception reliability with slot availability flexibility based on actual transmission outcomes and channel quality.
3Reliability
If repetitions are transmitted in all available slots, then coverage is enhanced, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by transmitting repetitions only when and where necessary rather than universally. The UE determines slot availability based on channel conditions and network configuration, transmitting repetitions partially in time and space. This selective approach enhances coverage for affected areas while reducing overall time consumption compared to universal repetition transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatuses for transmission of uplink channels. A method for a user equipment includes receiving: first information indicating a configuration for reception of first signals or channels, second information indicating counting to determine a number of repetitions, and third information indicating a first number of repetitions for a transmission of a second channel. The method further includes determining: an availability of a slot for transmission of a repetition of the second channel based on the first information, a value of a counter of repetitions based on the second information, and an indication for transmission of the repetition of the second channel in the slot based on: the availability, the value of the counter, and the first number of repetitions. The method further includes transmitting the repetition of the second channel in the slot based on the indication.