Variable-Bit DMRS Configuration Signaling in DCI Payloads

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing DMRS configuration methods in LTE result in a significant overhead due to the fixed number of bits reserved for indicating DMRS configurations, which does not efficiently cover the varying number of possible configurations needed for different scenarios, leading to a waste of bits in DCI payload.

Innovation Solution

Adaptive DMRS configuration methods that dynamically adjust the number of bits in DCI based on the specific conditions, such as the number of CWs, transmission layers, and antenna ports, by employing variable bit allocation to optimize the payload size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed number of bits is reserved for indicating DMRS configurations in DCI, then all possible configurations can be covered, but the payload size increases and overhead is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage of DMRS configurationsVSAvoidDCI payload size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamic bit allocation where the number of bits for indicating DMRS configurations is adjusted based on actual transmission conditions. Instead of reserving a fixed number of bits to cover all possible configurations, the system dynamically determines the required bit length according to the number of codeblocks and transmission layers, thereby reducing payload size while maintaining adequate configuration coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of bit allocation from a fixed value to a variable value that depends on transmission parameters such as the number of codeblocks and transmission layers. This parameter change allows the DCI payload to adapt to different transmission scenarios, reducing overhead when fewer configurations are needed while still supporting full configuration coverage when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a fixed number of bits is reserved for indicating DMRS configurations in DCI, then configuration indication is simplified, but resource utilization efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of configuration indicationVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static bit allocation to dynamic bit allocation that adapts to transmission conditions. The network device determines the appropriate number of bits based on the number of codeblocks and transmission layers, achieving a balance between operational simplicity and resource efficiency by only allocating necessary bits for the current transmission scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the bit allocation parameter from a constant to a variable that changes according to transmission parameters. This allows the system to maintain ease of operation through standardized procedures while improving resource utilization by avoiding allocation of excessive bits in scenarios where fewer configurations are needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If more bits are allocated for DMRS configuration indication, then more configuration options are available, but overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of DMRS configuration optionsVSAvoidoverhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements variable bit allocation where the number of bits for DMRS configuration indication is changed according to the actual number of codeblocks and transmission layers. This parameter change ensures that sufficient configuration options are available when needed while minimizing overhead in scenarios with fewer requirements, directly addressing the trade-off between adaptability and overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of always allocating bits for the maximum possible number of configurations (excessive action), the system allocates bits partially based on the actual transmission needs. This partial allocation approach avoids the overhead of reserving bits for configurations that will not be used in the current transmission scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3639595B1Methods and apparatuses for reference signal configuration
Publication Date: 2025.10.01 NEC CORP
  • EP3639595B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3639595B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3639595B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and devices for reference signal (RS) transmission. In example embodiments, a method implemented in a network device is provided. According to the method, the size of a field for indicating a RS configuration to a terminal device served by the network device is determined based on at least one condition related to RS transmission. A first indication of the RS configuration is transmitted to the terminal device. The first indication is included in the field with the determined size.