Uplink Timing Advance Granularity for 5G Numerology Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems, the generation and operation of timing advance (TA) information are challenging due to the use of different numerologies and beamforming, which affects uplink transmission timing and can lead to inter-symbol and inter-carrier interference, especially in environments with varying subcarrier spacings and beam widths.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for efficiently generating and operating TA information in 5G communication systems using different numerologies and beamforming, where a terminal receives configuration information and TA commands from a base station to determine the uplink transmission timing based on subcarrier spacing, allowing for adaptive TA granularity configuration and signaling to match varying beam conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different numerologies with varying subcarrier spacings are used to support various 5G services, then service versatility and data rates are improved, but timing advance information generation and operation become more complex and challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the timing advance granularity based on the subcarrier spacing of the active bandwidth part. When a bandwidth part with larger subcarrier spacing is activated, the timing advance granularity is increased proportionally, allowing the system to adapt to different numerologies while maintaining proper timing alignment. This resolves the contradiction by making the timing advance parameters flexible rather than fixed, enabling support for various services without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic timing advance configuration where the timing advance granularity changes according to the activated bandwidth part's subcarrier spacing. The system dynamically selects appropriate timing advance values from a set of pre-defined granularities based on the current numerology being used. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle different service requirements (eMBB, URLLC, mMTC) with varying subcarrier spacings while keeping the timing advance mechanism manageable through automated selection.
2Reliability
If beamforming with varying beam widths is employed to mitigate path loss and increase transfer distances, then signal coverage and reliability are improved, but uplink transmission timing alignment becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different timing advance granularities for different bandwidth parts that may be associated with different beamforming scenarios. Each bandwidth part can have its timing advance parameters optimized for the specific beam width and direction it serves. This allows the system to maintain precise timing alignment for narrow beams while using appropriate granularity for wider beams, resolving the contradiction between coverage reliability and timing precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If timing advance granularity is increased to accommodate larger subcarrier spacings, then timing alignment adaptability is improved, but interference between symbols and carriers may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully manages parameter changes by selecting timing advance granularity values that are proportional to subcarrier spacing but constrained within ranges that prevent excessive interference. The system chooses from pre-defined granularity levels (e.g., 16 Ts, 32 Ts, 64 Ts) based on the active bandwidth part's subcarrier spacing, ensuring adaptability while maintaining interference levels below harmful thresholds through standardized granularity options.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication technique that combines a 5G communication system for supporting a data rate that is higher than that of a beyond 4G system with IoT technology, and a system thereof. The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services on the basis of 5G communication technology and IoT related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car or connected car, health care, digital education, retail, security and safety related services. The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for operations of a terminal and a base station to transmit an uplink signal in a communication system, and more particularly, to a method by a base station for generating timing advance information for uplink transmission of a terminal and a reception method by the terminal.