Uplink Resource Allocation in Unlicensed Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mobile communication systems using unlicensed bands face limitations such as reduced transmission power, potential coverage holes, and decreased transmission reliability due to the need for fair coexistence with other systems, which complicates the allocation of uplink resources and requires innovative methods for efficient data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for allocating uplink resources in unlicensed bands by transmitting an uplink grant that considers the transmission timing of multiple terminals, including resource allocation information for clear channel assessment and special signals to prevent channel occupation by other devices, allowing for efficient data transmission while adhering to frequency regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If transmission power is limited to minimize influence on other systems sharing the unlicensed band, then coexistence with other systems is improved, but coverage area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the unlicensed band frequency resources into multiple subbands and divides uplink resource allocation into two stages: first allocating resource blocks in the frequency domain, then allocating time resources in the time domain. This segmentation allows the system to operate at limited power levels while efficiently utilizing available frequency subbands to maintain coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a two-dimensional resource allocation approach, moving from traditional single-stage frequency allocation to a two-stage process that adds time domain allocation. This dimensional expansion allows the system to compensate for reduced coverage area by more efficiently utilizing time-frequency resources, thereby maintaining overall coverage performance despite power limitations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frequency of unlicensed band is used discontinuously or randomly for fair coexistence, then coexistence with neighboring systems is improved, but transmission reliability is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the base station monitors channel occupancy and transmission conditions, then adjusts uplink resource allocation accordingly. The base station receives uplink data from terminals and provides feedback for resource re-allocation, enabling the system to maintain reliable transmission while adapting to changing channel conditions and coexistence requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic resource allocation where the base station can re-allocate uplink resources based on real-time channel conditions and occupancy status. This dynamic approach allows the system to transition between continuous and discontinuous transmission modes, maintaining reliability while adapting to coexistence requirements with neighboring unlicensed band systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If channel occupancy time is limited according to frequency regulation, then fair coexistence is improved, but data transmission efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic channel access and transmission cycles that align with regulatory occupancy time limits. The system performs clear channel assessment (CCA) periodically, occupies the channel for regulated time periods, and then releases it for other systems. This periodic operation maintains fair coexistence while maximizing data transmission efficiency within each occupancy window through efficient resource allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary clear channel assessment (CCA) before occupying the channel for data transmission. By checking channel availability in advance and preparing resource allocations beforehand, the system ensures compliant channel occupancy timing while maximizing transmission efficiency during authorized occupancy periods. This preliminary action prevents wasted transmission opportunities and maintains regulatory compliance.
4Ease of operation
If uplink resources are allocated without considering transmission timing of multiple terminals, then resource allocation simplicity is improved, but transmission reliability is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the resource allocation process into two distinct stages: frequency domain resource block allocation followed by time domain resource allocation. This segmentation allows the base station to consider transmission timing of multiple terminals systematically, assigning different time resources to different terminals based on their transmission requirements, thereby improving reliability while maintaining operational simplicity through structured allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a time dimension to the traditional frequency-only resource allocation by implementing two-stage allocation. This dimensional expansion enables the base station to coordinate transmissions from multiple terminals in both frequency and time domains, preventing collisions and improving transmission reliability while maintaining allocation simplicity through a systematic two-stage approach.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for allocating uplink resources includes transmitting an uplink grant (UL Grant) for an unlicensed component carrier (UCC) to a plurality of terminals, wherein the UL Grant for a first terminal among the plurality of terminals includes a resource allocation information in which a transmission timing of the uplink data of a second terminal among the plurality of terminals is considered.