Virtual Cell Configuration for Non-Contiguous Subbands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communications systems face challenges in operating efficiently on non-contiguous subbands, particularly in sixth generation (6G) systems, due to limitations in spectrum refarming and carrier aggregation, which affect coverage and device compatibility.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of virtual cells configured with non-contiguous subbands allows for efficient operation in wireless communications systems, including 6G, by defining maximum gaps between subbands and aggregated bandwidth, enhancing spectrum utilization and coexistence of different use cases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional carrier aggregation is used for spectrum refarming, then contiguous frequency bands can be aggregated, but non-contiguous subbands cannot be efficiently utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency spectrum into multiple non-contiguous subbands that can be independently configured and aggregated. Instead of requiring continuous frequency bands, the system divides the spectrum into separate subband units (e.g., subband 1, subband 2, subband 3) that can be selectively combined, enabling flexible utilization of fragmented spectrum resources while maintaining device compatibility through standardized segmentation interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual cell architecture provides a universal framework that can handle both contiguous and non-contiguous spectrum aggregation through a common interface. The system defines universal parameters such as maximum aggregated bandwidth and maximum gap between subbands that apply across different deployment scenarios, allowing the same mechanism to serve multiple purposes including spectrum refarming, carrier aggregation, and flexible resource allocation.
2Productivity
If spectrum refarming is implemented with strict contiguous requirements, then device compatibility is maintained, but spectrum utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces dynamic parameters for non-contiguous subband aggregation, including configurable maximum aggregated bandwidth and maximum gap between subbands. These parameters can be adjusted based on deployment requirements, allowing the system to adapt between more conservative configurations (smaller gaps, lower aggregated bandwidth) for compatibility and more aggressive configurations for higher spectrum utilization efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-contiguous subbands are configured without defined limits, then spectrum flexibility increases, but system complexity and device compatibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes specific parameter thresholds to govern non-contiguous subband operations: maximum aggregated bandwidth limits the total frequency range, maximum gap between subbands constrains the separation distance, and subband indexing provides standardized identification. These parameter changes create a controlled flexibility framework where devices can operate with enhanced configuration options while maintaining compatibility through adherence to defined parameter boundaries.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques for configuring and operating virtual cells including virtual cells operating in non-contiguous subbands. A method that may be performed by a user equipment (UE) includes: receiving signaling indicating a plurality of non-contiguous subbands configured for a virtual cell; and communicating in the virtual cell via the non-contiguous subbands.