DISCOVERY REFERENCE SIGNAL DESIGN FOR QUASI CO-LOCATION AND FRAME TIMING INFORMATION IN NEW RADIO USER EQUIPMENT

Smart overview of the Invention

Embodiments focus on the design and transmission of Synchronization Single Blocks (SSBs) using multiple SSB beams. The process begins with determining an SSB index based on a candidate position from a set of options and the total number of SSB beams available. This index helps in defining a Quasi Co-Location (QCL), which is crucial for effective communication between the base station and user equipment (UE).

Determining SSB Index and Shift Values

The apparatus involved includes processor circuitry that calculates the SSB index using a specific formula: SSB index = modulo(candidate position, number of SSB beams). Additionally, a shift value for the SSB index is determined based on the same parameters, following the formula: shift value = number of SSB beams * floor(candidate position / number of beams). These calculations enable efficient encoding of the SSB index and shift value within the Physical Broadcast Channel-Demodulation Reference Signal (PBCH-DMRS).

Frame Timing Determination

Frame timing for the SSB is critical for successful transmission. The processor circuitry computes this timing using the previously established SSB index and shift value, following the formula: frame timing = SSB index + shift value. This precise timing ensures that the SSB is transmitted effectively to user equipment, minimizing latency and maximizing communication reliability.

Impact of Listen Before Talk (LBT)

The design also considers scenarios where Listen Before Talk (LBT) may fail, affecting transmission opportunities. In such cases, mechanisms are in place to shift the sequence of SSBs in time, ensuring that even if initial attempts at transmission fail, subsequent opportunities are utilized efficiently. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining robust wireless communication.

System Architecture and Implementation

The system architecture includes various components such as radio front end circuitry and processor units that work together to facilitate SSB transmission. Detailed processes are laid out in accompanying figures, demonstrating how SSBs can be cyclically shifted or wrapped around during transmission to optimize performance under different conditions. These advancements aim to enhance overall wireless communication efficiency in modern networks.