U.S. patent application number 13/196004 was filed with the patent office on 2011-11-17 for channel estimating apparatus, channel estimating method, base station, and communication system.
This patent application is currently assigned to FUJITSU LIMITED. Invention is credited to Jianming WU.
Application Number | 20110281608 13/196004 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42541793 |
Filed Date | 2011-11-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110281608 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WU; Jianming |
November 17, 2011 |
CHANNEL ESTIMATING APPARATUS, CHANNEL ESTIMATING METHOD, BASE
STATION, AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
Abstract
A channel estimating apparatus includes a receiver that receives
reference signal groups that are respectively transmitted from
wireless communications units and that each include a reference
signal that is allocated a common channel resource allocated to a
reference signal in another reference signal group; a first
estimating unit that based on a reference signal that is in a first
reference signal group among the received reference signal groups
and that is allocated a unique channel resource not allocated to a
reference signal in another reference signal group, estimates a
reference signal that is in the first reference signal group and
allocated the common channel resource; and a second estimating unit
that based on the reference signal estimated by the first
estimating unit, estimates a reference signal that is in a second
reference signal group among the received reference signal groups
and that is allocated the common channel resource.
Inventors: |
WU; Jianming; (Kawasaki,
JP) |
Assignee: |
FUJITSU LIMITED
Kawasaki-shi
JP
|
Family ID: |
42541793 |
Appl. No.: |
13/196004 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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PCT/JP2009/051974 |
Feb 5, 2009 |
|
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13196004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
455/509 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 5/0048 20130101;
H04L 25/023 20130101; H04L 5/0007 20130101; H04L 25/0202
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/509 |
International
Class: |
H04W 72/04 20090101
H04W072/04 |
Claims
1. A channel estimating apparatus comprising: a wireless
communication interface; and a processor configured for controlling
the wireless communication interface to receive reference signal
groups that are respectively transmitted from wireless
communications units and that each include a reference signal that
is allocated a common channel resource allocated to a reference
signal in another reference signal group among the reference signal
groups; in accordance with a reference signal that is in a first
reference signal group among the reference signal groups received
by the wireless communication interface and that is allocated a
unique channel resource not allocated to a reference signal in
another reference signal group, first estimating a reference signal
that is in the first reference signal group and allocated the
common channel resource; and in accordance with the reference
signal estimated by the first estimating, second estimating a
reference signal that is in a second reference signal group among
the received reference signal groups and that is allocated the
common channel resource.
2. The channel estimating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first estimating by the processor includes estimating a
reference signal in the first reference signal group and allocated
the common channel resource, the first reference signal group
having a relatively high strength among the received reference
signal groups, and the second estimating by the processor includes
estimating a reference signal in the second reference signal group
and allocated the common channel resource, the second reference
signal group having a relatively low strength among the received
reference signal groups.
3. The channel estimating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the second estimating by the processor further includes estimating
in accordance with a reference signal that is in the second
reference signal group and allocated a unique channel resource, the
reference signal that was estimated in accordance with the
reference signal estimated by the first estimating.
4. The channel estimating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the first estimating by the processor further includes estimating
in accordance with the reference signal estimated by the second
estimating, the reference signal that is in the first reference
signal group and allocated the common channel resource.
5. A base station comprising: a wireless communication interface;
and a processor configured for controlling the wireless
communication interface to transmit to a terminal apparatus, a
first reference signal group that includes a reference signal that
is allocated a common channel resource allocated to a reference
signal in a second reference signal group transmitted to the
terminal apparatus from another base station.
6. The base station according to claim 5, wherein processor
controls the wireless communication interface to allocate to a
reference signal in the first reference signal group, a unique
channel resource that is not allocated to a reference signal in the
second signal group, where the allocated unique channel source is
orthogonal to the channel resource of a reference signal that is in
the first reference signal group and allocated a unique channel
resource.
7. The base station according to claim 6, wherein the processor
controls the wireless communication interface to alternately
allocate a subcarrier to each reference signal that is allocated a
unique channel resource, the allocated subcarriers being orthogonal
to one another.
8. The base station according to claim 6, wherein the processor
controls the wireless communications interface to allocate a
sub-frame head slot to each reference signal that is allocated a
unique channel resource that is not allocated to a reference signal
in the second signal group.
9. A base station comprising: a first wireless communication
interface; a second wireless communication interface; and a
processor configured for controlling the first wireless
communication interface to transmit a first reference signal group
to a terminal apparatus, and controlling the second wireless
communication interface to transmit to the terminal apparatus, a
second reference signal group that includes a reference signal that
is allocated a common channel resource allocated to a reference
signal in the first reference signal group.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of
International Application PCT/JP2009/051974, filed Feb. 5, 2009,
and designating the U.S., the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD
[0002] The embodiments discussed herein are related to channel
estimation.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems
such as long term evolution (LTE) systems, reference signals (RS),
which are shared links, are used for channel estimation.
[0004] For example, a wireless relay system has been disclosed that
uses a wireless relay apparatus to relay a wireless signal from a
first wireless station and transmit the wireless signal to a second
wireless station. The wireless relay apparatus includes a phase
correction amount determining unit that based on channel
information related to the transmission path between the first
wireless station, the second wireless station, and the wireless
relay apparatus, determines the amount of phase correction for the
relayed signal; and a phase correcting unit that corrects the phase
of the relayed signal, based on the phase correction amount
determined by the phase correction amount determining unit (see,
for example, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No.
2005-229524).
[0005] However, with the conventional technology above, a problem
arises in that if the channel resources for reference signals
transmitted from multiple points to terminal apparatuses are the
same, channel estimation becomes difficult. A further problem
arises in that if the reference signals transmitted from multiple
points to terminal apparatuses are allocated channel resources so
as to prevent the reference signals from being allocated a common
(i.e., the same) channel resource, the number of channel resources
used for allocation to reference signals increases, whereby channel
resource utilization efficiency decreases.
SUMMARY
[0006] It is an object in one aspect of the embodiments to at least
solve the above problems in the conventional technologies.
[0007] According to an aspect of an embodiment, a channel
estimating apparatus includes a receiver that receives reference
signal groups that are respectively transmitted from wireless
communications units and that each include a reference signal that
is allocated a common channel resource allocated to a reference
signal in another reference signal group among the reference signal
groups; a first estimating unit that based on a reference signal
that is in a first reference signal group among the reference
signal groups received by the receiver and that is allocated a
unique channel resource not allocated to a reference signal in
another reference signal group, estimates a reference signal that
is in the first reference signal group and allocated the common
channel resource; and a second estimating unit that based on the
reference signal estimated by the first estimating unit, estimates
a reference signal that is in a second reference signal group among
the received reference signal groups and that is allocated the
common channel resource.
[0008] The object and advantages of the invention will be realized
and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly
pointed out in the claims.
[0009] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description are exemplary
and explanatory and are not restrictive of the invention, as
claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system
according to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a diagram depicting reference signal estimation
for channel resource CR4 depicted in FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 3A is a diagram depicting an example of reference
signal design (part 1).
[0013] FIG. 3B is a diagram depicting an example of reference
signal design (part 2).
[0014] FIG. 4 is a diagram depicting a detailed example of channel
estimation by each estimating unit.
[0015] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a configuration for
implementing the channel estimation depicted in FIG. 4.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a configuration of an
estimating unit 521 depicted in FIG. 5.
[0017] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a configuration of an
estimating unit 531 depicted in FIG. 5.
[0018] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an estimating unit 522 depicted
in FIG. 5.
[0019] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a configuration of an
estimating unit 52n depicted in FIG. 5.
[0020] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a configuration of an
estimating unit 53n depicted in FIG. 5.
[0021] FIG. 11 is a flowchart depicting an operation example of a
channel estimating apparatus depicted in FIG. 5.
[0022] FIG. 12A is a diagram depicting another example of reference
signal design (part 1).
[0023] FIG. 12B is a diagram depicting another example of reference
signal design (part 2).
[0024] FIG. 13A is a diagram depicting yet another example of
reference signal design (part 1).
[0025] FIG. 13B is a diagram depicting yet another example of
reference signal design (part 2).
[0026] FIG. 14 is a diagram depicting a first application example
of the communication system.
[0027] FIG. 15 is a diagram depicting a second application example
of the communication system.
[0028] FIG. 16 is a diagram depicting a third application of the
communication system.
[0029] FIG. 17 depicts a fourth application example of the
communication system.
[0030] FIG. 18A is a diagram depicting a first example of reference
signal design modification.
[0031] FIG. 18B is a diagram depicting a second example of
reference signal design modification.
[0032] FIG. 18C is a diagram depicting a third example of reference
signal design modification.
[0033] FIG. 18D is a diagram depicting a fourth example of
reference signal design modification.
[0034] FIG. 18E is a diagram depicting a fifth example of reference
signal design modification.
[0035] FIG. 18F is a diagram depicting a sixth example of reference
signal design modification.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0036] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0037] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system
according to an embodiment. As depicted in FIG. 1, a communication
system 100 according to the embodiment includes a base station 110,
a base station 120, and a channel estimating apparatus 130. As
depicted by reference numeral 101 in FIG. 1, an example will be
described where 4 channel resources CR1 to CR4 depicted in a grid
pattern are allocated to various types of signals that are
transmitted from the base station 110 and the base station 120.
[0038] The base station 110 wirelessly transmits a reference signal
group 111 to the channel estimating apparatus 130. Channel resource
CR1 and channel resource CR4 are allocated to reference signal RS0
in the reference signal group 111. The base station 120 wirelessly
transmits a reference signal group 121 to the channel estimating
apparatus 130. Channel resource CR3 and channel resource CR4 are
allocated to reference signal RS1 in the reference signal group
121.
[0039] In this manner, the reference signal group 111 and the
reference signal group 121 include reference signals that have been
allocated the same channel resource. For example, channel resource
CR4 is allocated to reference signal RS0 in the reference signal
group 111 and to reference signal RS1 in the reference signal group
121. On the other hand, channel resource CR1 is allocated to
reference signal RS0 in the reference signal group 111, but not to
reference signal RS1 in the reference signal group 121.
[0040] Further, channel resource CR3 is allocated to reference
signal RS1 in the reference signal group 121, but not to reference
signal RS0 in the reference signal group 111. Channel resource CR2
is allocated to neither reference signal RS0 nor reference signal
RS1. Thus, channel resource CR4 is allocated to multiple reference
signals, while channel resources CR1 to CR3 are not allocated to
multiple reference signals.
[0041] The channel estimating apparatus 130 includes a receiver
131, a first estimating unit 132, and a second estimating unit 133.
The receiver 131 simultaneously receives the reference signal group
111 and the reference signal group 121 transmitted from the base
station 110 and the base station 120. A reference signal group 140
depicts the state of the reference signals received by the receiver
131.
[0042] The receiver 131 outputs to the first estimating unit 132,
the reference signal group 111 wirelessly transmitted from the base
station 110. For example, the receiver 131 extracts from the
received reference signal group 140, the respective reference
signals at channel resource CR1 and channel resource CR4, which the
base station 110 allocated reference signal RS0, and outputs the
extracted reference signals to the first estimating unit 132.
[0043] However, the reference signal group 140 received by the
receiver 131 also includes at channel resource CR4, reference
signal RS1, which is wirelessly transmitted from the base station
120. Consequently, the reference signal group 111 output from the
receiver 131 to the first estimating unit 132 includes reference
signal RS0 and reference signal RS1 at channel resource CR4.
[0044] The receiver 131 outputs to the second estimating unit 133,
the reference signal group 121 wirelessly transmitted from the base
station 120. For example, the receiver 131 extracts from the
received reference signal group 140, the respective reference
signals at channel resource CR3 and channel resource CR4, which the
base station 120 allocated reference signal RS1, and outputs the
extracted reference signals to the second estimating unit 133.
[0045] However, the reference signal group 140 received by the
receiver 131 also includes at channel resource CR4, reference
signal RS0, which is wirelessly transmitted from the base station
110. Consequently, the reference signal group 121 output from the
receiver 131 to the second estimating unit 133 includes reference
signal RS0 and reference signal RS1 at channel resource CR4.
[0046] Further, the receiver 131 may output to the first estimating
unit 132, the stronger reference signal group among the reference
signal group 111 and the reference signal group 121 and may output
to the second estimating unit 133, the weaker reference signal
group. Here, it is assumed that the strength of the reference
signal group 111 is greater than that of the reference signal group
121. In this case, the receiver 131 outputs the reference signal
group 111 to the first estimating unit 132 and outputs the
reference signal group 121 to the second estimating unit 133.
[0047] The first estimating unit 132 estimates a reference signal
that is in the reference signal group 111 output from the receiver
131 and allocated a common channel resource that is also allocated
to a reference signal in the reference signal group 121. The first
estimating unit 132 makes the estimation based on a reference
signal that is in the reference signal group 111 and allocated a
unique channel resource that is not allocated to a reference signal
in the reference signal group 121.
[0048] Here, the first estimating unit 132 estimates reference
signal RS0 that is in the reference signal group 111 and allocated
channel resource CR4. The first estimating unit 132 makes the
estimation based on reference signal RS0 that is allocated channel
resource CR1. The first estimating unit 132 uses channel resource
CR4 of the reference signal group 111 from the receiver 131 for the
estimated reference signal RS0, outputs the reference signal group
111 downstream. The first estimating unit 132 further outputs the
estimated reference signal RS0 to the second estimating unit
133.
[0049] The second estimating unit 133 estimates a reference signal
that is in the reference signal group 121 output from the receiver
131 and allocated a common channel resource that is also allocated
to a reference signal in the reference signal group 111. The second
estimating unit 133 makes the estimation based on the reference
signal RS0 received from the first estimating unit 132. Here, the
second estimating unit 133 estimates reference signal RS1 in the
reference signal group 121 and allocated channel resource CR4. The
second estimating unit 133 makes the estimation based on reference
signal RS0 output from the first estimating unit 132.
[0050] For example, the second estimating unit 133 subtracts from
the signals (including reference signal RS0 and reference signal
RS1) of channel resource CR4 of the reference signal group 121, the
reference signal RS0 output from the first estimating unit 132,
whereby reference signal RS1 allocated channel resource CR4 of the
reference signal group 121 is estimated.
[0051] The second estimating unit 133 may estimate the reference
signal further based on a reference signal that is in the reference
signal group 121 and allocated a unique channel resource that is
not allocated to a reference signal in the reference signal group
111. For example, based on reference signal RS1 allocated channel
resource CR3, the second estimating unit 133 estimates reference
signal RS1 allocated channel resource CR4 of the reference signal
group 121.
[0052] The second estimating unit 133 uses channel resource CR4 of
the reference signal group 121 from the receiver 131, for the
estimated reference signal RS1, and outputs the reference signal
group 121 downstream. Further, the second estimating unit 133 may
output the estimated reference signal RS1 to the first estimating
unit 132. In this case, the first estimating unit 132 further
estimates the estimated reference signal RS0, based on reference
signal RS1 output from the second estimating unit 133 (see, for
example FIGS. 4 and 5).
[0053] FIG. 2 is a diagram depicting reference signal estimation
for channel resource CR4 depicted in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, the
horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents
signal strength at channel resource CR4 depicted in FIG. 1. Signal
210 represents the signal at channel resource CR4 of the reference
signal group 140 received by the receiver 131.
[0054] Since reference signal RS0 and reference signal RS1 are both
allocated channel resource CR4, signal 210 includes reference
signal RS0 and reference signal RS1. Consequently, the strength of
signal 210 is a sum of the respective strengths of reference signal
RS0 and reference signal RS1. Further, the strength of reference
signal RS0 is greater than that of reference signal RS1.
[0055] Signal 220 represents the reference signal RS0 estimated by
the first estimating unit 132. Signal 220, for example, is
estimated based on reference signal RS0 at channel resource CR1.
Signal 230 the represents reference signal RS1 estimated by the
second estimating unit 133. Signal 230 is estimated by subtracting
signal 220 from signal 210.
[0056] FIG. 3A is a diagram depicting an example of reference
signal design (part 1). FIG. 3B is a diagram depicting an example
of reference signal design (part 2). Signal 310 depicted in FIG. 3A
represents a signal transmitted from the base station 110. Signal
320 depicted in FIG. 3B represents a signal transmitted from the
base station 120. Signal 310 and signal 320 are respectively
allocated channel resources (resource elements) that are divided by
a horizontal axis and vertical axis grids.
[0057] Here, for example, description will be given concerning
channel resource division by OFDM under LTE, however, the
communication method is not limited to LTE or OFDM. The horizontal
grid depicts channel resource division by time. Along the
horizontal axis, time is indicated by cyclically repeating slots
l=0 to 6. The vertical grid depicts channel resource division by
frequency.
[0058] Each subcarrier SC0 to SC11 represents a subcarrier dividing
signal 310 and signal 320 by frequency. The subcarriers SC0 to SC11
are transmitted in units, i.e., a sub-frame 331, 332 including
slots l=0 to 6.
[0059] Each channel resource for signal 310 is allocated to any one
among reference signal RS0, a data signal Data0, a null signal Null
transmitted by the base station 110. Each channel resource for
signal 320 is allocated to any one among reference signal RS1, a
data signal Data1, and a null signal (Null) transmitted by the base
station 120. A null signal is a signal that conveys neither a
reference signal nor a data signal, and that prevents reference
signal interference.
[0060] In signal 310, reference signal RS0 is allocated slot l=0 of
each subcarrier SC0 and SC6 and slot l=4 of each subcarrier SC3 and
SC9. Further, in signal 310, a null signal is allocated slot l=0 of
each subcarrier SC1 and SC7; and data signal Data0 is allocated
channel resources that have been allocated to neither reference
signal RS0 of signal 310 nor a null signal.
[0061] In signal 320, reference signal RS1 is allocated slot l=0 of
each subcarrier SC1 and SC7 and slot l=4 of each subcarrier SC3 and
SC9. Further, in signal 320, a null signal is allocated slot l=0 of
each subcarrier SC0 and SC6; and data signal Data1 is allocated
channel resources that have been allocated to neither reference
signal RS1 of signal 320 nor a null signal.
[0062] If signal 310 and signal 320 are transmitted simultaneously,
reference signal RS0 and reference signal RS1 both use slot l=4 of
subcarriers SC3 and SC9. On the other hand, since slot l=0 of each
subcarrier SC0 and SC6 is allocated to reference signal RS0 in
signal 310 and to a null signal in signal 320, reference signals do
not simultaneously use the slot.
[0063] Further, since slot l=0 of each subcarrier SC1 and SC7 is
allocated to a null signal in signal 310 and to reference signal
RS1 in signal 320, reference signals do not simultaneously use the
slot. In this manner, the reference signal group of signal 310 and
the reference signal group of signal 320 each include a reference
signal that uses the same channel resource.
[0064] In signal 310 and signal 320, reference signals that are
allocated a unique channel resource are allocated channel resources
that are orthogonal to one another. For example, in signal 310,
reference signal RS0 is allocated subcarrier SC0, whereas in signal
320, reference signal RS1 is allocated subcarrier SC1, which is
orthogonal to subcarrier SC0.
[0065] Further, in signal 310, reference signal RS0 is allocated
subcarrier SC6, whereas in signal 320, reference signal RS1 is
allocated subcarrier SC7, which is orthogonal to subcarrier
SC6.
[0066] Here, in signal 310 and signal 320, reference signals that
are allocated a unique channel resource are respectively allocated
the head slot of a sub-frame. In other words, reference signal RS0
of signal 310 is allocated slot l=0 and reference signal RS1 of
signal 320 is allocated slot l=0.
[0067] FIG. 4 is a diagram depicting a detailed example of channel
estimation by each estimating unit. In FIG. 4, reference numeral
410 represents estimation (by the first estimating unit 132) of the
reference signal group 111 transmitted from the base station 110
(see FIG. 1). Reference numeral 420 represents estimation (by the
second estimating unit 133) of the reference signal group 121
transmitted from the base station 120 (see FIG. 1).
[0068] Here, among signals 310 and 320 depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B,
a reference signal of 1 sub-frame of subcarriers SC0 to SC7 (1
cycle of slots l=0 to 6) will be described. Furthermore, it is
assumed that the strength of signal 310 is greater than that of
signal 320. In this case, estimation begins with the estimation of
the reference signal group 111 by the first estimating unit
132.
[0069] As depicted by reference numeral 411, the reference signal
group input to the first estimating unit 132 includes 4 reference
signals RS0 and a signal that includes reference signal RS0 as well
reference signal RS1 (reference numeral 411a). Meanwhile, as
depicted by reference numeral 421, the reference signal group input
to the second estimating unit 133 includes 4 reference signals RS1
and a signal that includes reference signal RS1 as well as
reference signal RS0 (reference numeral 421a).
[0070] The first estimating unit 132 applies Wiener filtering to
the input reference signal group. Here, although an example is
described where Wiener filtering is used in reference signal
estimation, configuration is not limited to Wiener filtering and
another type of circuit may be used (the same similarly applies
hereinafter). Consequently, as depicted by reference numeral 412,
by applying a Wiener filtering weight, the strength of each
reference signal in the reference signal group at the first
estimating unit 132 is equalized and the noise (reference signal
RS1) in the signal depicted by reference numeral 411a is reduced
(reference numeral 412a). The resulting reference signal RS0
represented by reference numeral 412a is output to the second
estimating unit 133.
[0071] The second estimating unit 133 subtracts from the signal
represented by reference numeral 421a, reference signal RS0 output
from the first estimating unit 132 (reference numeral 412a).
Consequently, in the reference signal group at the second
estimating unit 133, the signal represented by reference numeral
421a, less the reference signal RS0 component, becomes reference
signal RS1 (reference numeral 422a).
[0072] The second estimating unit 133 applies Wiener filtering to
the reference signal group that includes the resulting reference
signal RS1 represented by reference numeral 422a. Consequently, as
depicted by reference numeral 423, by applying a Weiner filtering
weight, the strength of each reference signal in the reference
signal group at the second estimating unit 133 is equalized and
reference signal RS0 noise in reference signal RS1 represented by
reference numeral 422a is reduced (reference numeral 423a). The
reference signal represented by reference numeral 423a is output to
the first estimating unit 132.
[0073] The first estimating unit 132 subtracts from the signal
represented by reference numeral 411a, reference signal RS1
(reference numeral 423a) output from the second estimating unit
133. Consequently, in the reference signal group at the first
estimating unit 132, the signal represented by reference numeral
411a, less the reference signal RS1 component, becomes reference
signal RS0 (reference numeral 413a).
[0074] Reference signal RS1 represented by reference numeral 423a
is an extremely accurate estimation of reference signal RS1 by the
subtraction of reference signal RS0 represented by reference
numeral 422 and the Wiener filtering represented by reference
numeral 423. Consequently, noise (reference signal RS1 component)
is removed with favorable accuracy from reference signal RS0
(reference numeral 413a) estimated based on reference signal RS1
represented by reference numeral 423a, as compared to reference
signal RS0 represented by reference numeral 412a.
[0075] Reference signal RS0 represented by reference numeral 413a
is output to the second estimating unit 133 and the operation
represented by reference numerals 422, 423, and 413 are repeatedly
performed (two-dimensional iterative estimation). Consequently, the
estimation accuracy of reference signal RS0 included in the signal
represented by reference numeral 411a and reference signal RS1
included in the signal represented by reference numeral 421a can be
gradually improved.
[0076] The first estimating unit 132 and the second estimating unit
133, for example, perform the operations represented by reference
numerals 422, 423, and 413, a fixed number of times. Alternatively,
the first estimating unit 132 and the second estimating unit 133
may perform the operations represented by reference numerals 422,
423, and 413 until the accuracy of channel estimation improves.
[0077] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a configuration for
implementing the channel estimation depicted in FIG. 4. A channel
estimating apparatus 500 depicted in FIG. 5 is an example of a
modification of the channel estimating apparatus 130 depicted in
FIG. 1. The channel estimating apparatus 500 includes a receiver
510, estimating units 521, 522 to 52n, and estimating units 531,
532 to 53n, where (n=3, 4, 5, . . . ).
[0078] The receiver 510 receives the reference signal group
transmitted from the base station 110 and the reference signal
group transmitted from the base station 120. Reference signal 501
represents a reference signal that is in the reference signal group
transmitted from the base station 110 and allocated a unique
channel resource that is not allocated to a reference signal in the
reference signal group transmitted from the base station 120.
[0079] Reference signal 502 is a reference signal that is in the
reference signal group transmitted from the base station 120 and
allocated a unique channel resource that is not allocated to a
reference signal in the reference signal group transmitted from the
base station 110. Signal 503 is a signal that includes reference
signals of each reference signal group transmitted from the base
station 110 and the base station 120, the reference signals being
allocated the same channel resource.
[0080] The receiver 510 outputs each reference signal 501 and
signal 503 to the estimating units 521, 522 to 52n, respectively.
Further, the receiver 510 outputs each reference signal 502 and
signal 503 to the estimating units 531, 532 to 53n,
respectively.
[0081] The estimating unit 521 applies Weiner filtering to
reference signal 501 and signal 503 output from the receiver 510,
and estimates the reference signal output from the base station 110
and included in signal 503. The estimating unit 521 outputs the
estimated reference signal to the estimating unit 531.
[0082] The estimating unit 531 subtracts from signal 503 output
from the receiver 510, the reference signal output from the
estimating unit 521 and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 120 and included in signal 503. Further, the
estimating unit 531 applies Wiener filtering to each reference
signal 502 output from the receiver 510 and to the estimated
reference signal, and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 120. The estimating unit 531 outputs the estimated
reference signal to the estimating unit 522.
[0083] The estimating unit 522 subtracts from signal 503 output
from the receiver 510, the reference signal output from the
estimating unit 531 and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 110 and included in signal 503. Further, the
estimating unit 522 applies Weiner filtering to each reference
signal 501 output from the receiver 510 and to the estimated
reference signal, and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 110. The estimating unit 522 outputs the estimated
reference signal to the estimating unit 532.
[0084] The estimating unit 532 subtracts from signal 503 output
from the receiver 510, the reference signal output from the
estimating unit 522 and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 120 and included in the signal 503. Further, the
estimating unit 532 applies Wiener filtering to each reference
signal 502 output from the receiver 510 and to the estimated
reference signal, estimates the reference signal output from the
base station 120, and outputs the estimated reference signal to the
estimating unit 523 (not depicted).
[0085] The estimating unit 52n subtracts from signal 503 output
from the receiver 510, the reference signal output from the
estimating unit 53(n-1) (not depicted) and estimates the reference
signal output from the base station 110 and included in signal 503.
Further, the estimating unit 52n applies Weiner filtering to each
reference signal 501 output from the receiver 510 and to the
estimated reference signal, and estimates the reference signal
output from the base station 110.
[0086] The estimating unit 52n outputs the estimated reference
signal to the estimating unit 53n. Further, the estimating unit 52n
outputs each Weiner filtered reference signal downstream. In this
manner, subtraction and Weiner filtering using the reference
signals output from the estimating units 531 to 53n are repeatedly
performed by the estimating units 521 to 52n (the estimating unit
521 does not perform subtraction), whereby the reference signal
output from the base station 110 is accurately estimated.
[0087] The estimating unit 53n subtracts from signal 503 output
from the receiver 510, the reference signal output from the
estimating unit 52n and estimates the reference signal output from
the base station 120 and included in signal 503. Further, the
estimating unit 53n applies Weiner filtering to each reference
signal 502 output from the receiver 510 and to the estimated
reference signal, and outputs each Weiner filtered reference signal
downstream.
[0088] In this manner, subtraction and Weiner filtering using the
reference signals output from the estimating units 521 to 52n are
repeatedly performed by the estimating units 531 to 53n, whereby
the reference signal output from the base station 120 is accurately
estimated. The reference signals output from the base station 110
and estimated by estimating units 521 to 52n, and the reference
signals output from the base station 120 and estimated by the
estimating units 531 to 53n are, for example, used in channel
resource allocation for a terminal apparatus equipped with the
channel estimating apparatus 500.
[0089] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a configuration of the
estimating unit 521 depicted in FIG. 5. As depicted in FIG. 6, the
estimating unit 521 (see FIG. 5) includes a canceller 610 and a
Weiner filter 620. Among reference signals 501 and signal 503 input
to the estimating unit 521, signal 503 is input to the canceller
610 and each reference signal 501 is input to the Weiner filter
620. An estimated reference signal is not input to the canceller
610 of the estimating unit 521 (0).
[0090] Therefore, the canceller 610 outputs signal 503 as is to the
Weiner filter 620. The Weiner filter 620 filters each reference
signal 501 input thereto and signal 503 output from the canceller
610. The Weiner filter 620 outputs to the estimating unit 531,
reference signal 630 (output from the base station 110) estimated
by Weiner filtering and included in signal 503.
[0091] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a configuration of the
estimating unit 531 depicted in FIG. 5. In FIG. 7, components
identical to those depicted in FIG. 6 are given the same reference
numerals used in FIG. 6 and description thereof is omitted. In the
estimating unit 531, among reference signals 502 and signal 503
input thereto, signal 503 is input to the canceller 610 and each
reference signal 502 is input to the Weiner filter 620.
[0092] Signal 503 and reference signal 630 output from the
estimating unit 521 are input to the canceller 610. The canceller
610 cancels (subtracts) from signal 503 input thereto, reference
signal 630 output from the estimating unit 521. The canceller 610
outputs to the Weiner filter 620, reference signal 710 obtained by
the cancellation.
[0093] The Weiner filter 620 filters each reference signal 502
input thereto and reference signal 710 output from the canceller
610. The Weiner filter 620 outputs to the estimating unit 522,
reference signal 720 (output from the base station 120) estimated
by Weiner filtering and included in signal 503.
[0094] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the estimating unit 522
depicted in FIG. 5. In FIG. 8, components identical to those
depicted in FIG. 6 are given the same reference numerals used in
FIG. 6 and description thereof is omitted. In the estimating unit
522, among the reference signals 501 and signal 503 input thereto,
signal 503 is input to the canceller 610 and each reference signal
501 is input to the Weiner filter 620.
[0095] Signal 503 and reference signal 720 output from the
estimating unit 531 are input to the canceller 610. The canceller
610 cancels (subtracts) from signal 503 input thereto, reference
signal 720 output from the estimating unit 531. The canceller 610
outputs to the Weiner filter 620, reference signal 810 obtained by
the cancellation.
[0096] The Weiner filter 620 filters each reference signal 501
input thereto and reference signal 810 output from the canceller
610. The Weiner filter 620 outputs to the estimating unit 532,
reference signal 820 (output from the base station 110) estimated
by Weiner filtering and included in signal 503.
[0097] The estimating unit 532 depicted in FIG. 5 is identical to
the estimating unit 531 depicted in FIG. 7 and therefore,
description thereof is omitted. However, signal 503 and reference
signal 820 output from the estimating unit 522 are input to the
canceller 610 of the estimating unit 532. The canceller 610 cancels
from signal 503 input thereto, reference signal 820 output from the
estimating unit 522. The Weiner filter 620 outputs to the
estimating unit 523, the reference signal (output from the base
station 120) estimated by Weiner filtering and included in signal
503.
[0098] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a configuration of the
estimating unit 52n depicted in FIG. 5. In FIG. 9, components
identical to those depicted in FIG. 6 are given the same reference
numerals used in FIG. 6 and description thereof is omitted. In the
estimating unit 52n, among reference signals 501 and signal 503
input thereto, signal 503 is input to the canceller 610 and each
reference signal 501 is input to the Weiner filter 620.
[0099] Signal 503 and reference signal 910 output from the
estimating unit 53(n-1) are input to the canceller 610. The
canceller 610 cancels from signal 503 input thereto, reference
signal 910. The canceller 610 outputs to the Weiner filter 620,
reference signal 920 obtained by the cancellation.
[0100] The Weiner filter 620 filters each reference signal 501
input thereto and reference signal 920 output from the canceller
610. The Weiner filter 620 outputs to the estimating unit 53n,
reference signal 930 (output from the base station 110) estimated
by Weiner filtering and included in signal 503. Further, the Weiner
filter 620 outputs downstream a Weiner-filtered reference signal
group 940.
[0101] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a configuration of the
estimating unit 53n depicted in FIG. 5. In FIG. 10, components
identical to those depicted in FIG. 6 are given the same reference
numerals used in FIG. 6 and description thereof is omitted. In the
estimating unit 53n, among reference signals 502 and signal 503
input thereto, signal 503 is input to the canceller 610 and each
reference signal 502 is input to the Weiner filter 620.
[0102] Signal 503 and reference signal 1010 output from the
estimating unit 52n are input to the canceller 610. The canceller
610 cancels from signal 503 input thereto, reference signal 1010.
The canceller 610 outputs to the Weiner filter 620, reference
signal 1020 obtained by the cancellation.
[0103] The Weiner filter 620 filters each reference signal 502
input thereto and reference signal 1020 output from the canceller
610. The Weiner filter 620 outputs downstream, a reference signal
group 1030 estimated by Weiner filtering.
[0104] FIG. 11 is a flowchart depicting an operation example of the
channel estimating apparatus depicted in FIG. 5. The channel
estimating apparatus determines, at the receiver 510, whether the
strength of reference signal RS0 (e.g., reference signal 501)
received from the base station 110 is greater than the strength of
reference signal RS1 (e.g., reference signal 502) received from the
base station 120 (step S1101).
[0105] At step S1101, if the strength of reference signal RS0 is
greater than that of reference signal RS1 (step S1101: YES), the
receiver 510 outputs reference signal RS0 to the estimating unit
521 and outputs reference signal RS1 to the estimating unit 531.
Next, the estimating unit 521 estimates reference signal RS0 (step
S1102). The estimating unit 531 estimates reference signal RS1
(step S1103).
[0106] Next, the channel estimating apparatus determines whether
the reference signal estimations at steps S1102 and S1103 have been
performed n-times (step S1104). If the reference signal estimations
have not been performed n-times (step S1104: NO), the channel
estimating apparatus returns to step S1102 and continues processing
therefrom. If the reference signal estimations have been performed
n-times (step S1104: YES), a series of the operations ends.
[0107] At step S1101, if the strength of reference signal RS0 is
not greater than that of reference signal RS1 (step S1101: NO), the
receiver 510 outputs reference signal RS1 to the estimating unit
521 and outputs reference signal RS0 to the estimating unit 531.
The estimating unit 521 estimates reference signal RS1 (step S1105)
and then, the estimating unit 531 estimates reference signal RS0
(step S1106).
[0108] Next, the channel estimating apparatus determines whether
the reference signal estimations at steps S1105 and S1106 have been
performed n-times (step S1107). If the reference signal estimations
have not been performed n-times (step S1107: NO), the channel
estimating apparatus returns to step S1105 and continues processing
therefrom. If the reference signal estimations have been performed
n-times (step S1107: YES), a series of the operations ends.
[0109] By the steps above, among reference signal RS0 and reference
signal RS1, the reference signal having the higher strength can be
estimated first. Further, as depicted in FIG. 5, for n-times,
reference signal RS0 is subject to subtraction and Weiner filtering
using reference signal RS1. Further, for n-times, reference signal
RS1 is subject to subtraction and Weiner filtering using reference
signal RS0. Consequently, reference signal RS0 and reference signal
RS1 are accurately estimated.
[0110] Here, although operation in which reference signal RS0 and
reference signal RS1 are estimated n-times has been described, at
steps S1104 and S1107, it may be determined whether estimation
accuracy has improved. Consequently, reference signal RS0 and
reference signal RS1 can be repeatedly estimated until the
estimation accuracy improves.
[0111] FIG. 12A is a diagram depicting another example of reference
signal design (part 1). FIG. 12B is a diagram depicting another
example of reference signal design (part 2). In FIGS. 12A and 12B,
descriptions of portions identical to those depicted in FIGS. 3A
and 3B will be omitted. In the present design example, in signal
310 and signal 320, reference signals that are in the reference
signal groups and respectively allocated unique channel resources,
are alternately allocated orthogonal subcarriers.
[0112] For example, in the sub-frame 331 of the signal 310,
reference signal RS0 is allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC1, slot
l=4 of subcarrier SC3 and subcarrier SC9, and slot l=0 of
subcarrier SC6. Further, the sub-frame 331 of signal 310, a null
signal is allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC0 and slot l=0 of
subcarrier SC7.
[0113] In the sub-frame 332 of signal 310, reference signal RS0 is
allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC0, slot l=4 of subcarrier SC3
and subcarrier SC9, and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC7. Further, in the
sub-frame 332 of signal 310, a null signal is allocated slot l=0 of
subcarrier SC1 and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC6.
[0114] In this manner, in signal 310, reference signal RS0 is
allocated subcarrier SC1 in the sub-frame 331; and in the sub-frame
332, reference signal RS0 is allocated subcarrier SC0, which is
orthogonal to subcarrier SC1. Further, in the sub-frame 331,
reference signal RS0 is allocated subcarrier SC6; and in the
sub-frame 332, reference signal RS0 is allocated subcarrier SC7,
which is orthogonal to subcarrier SC6.
[0115] In the sub-frame 331 of signal 320, reference signal RS1 is
allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC0, slot l=4 of subcarrier SC3
and subcarrier SC9, and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC7. Further, in the
sub-frame 331 of signal 320, a null signal is allocated slot l=0 of
subcarrier SC1 and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC6.
[0116] In the sub-frame 332 of signal 320, reference signal RS1 is
allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC1, slot l=4 of subcarrier SC3
and subcarrier SC9, and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC6. Further, in the
sub-frame 332 of signal 320, a null signal is allocated slot l=0 of
subcarrier SC0 and slot l=0 of subcarrier SC7.
[0117] In this manner, in signal 320, reference signal RS1 is
allocated subcarrier SC0 in the sub-frame 331; and in the sub-frame
332, reference signal RS1 is allocated subcarrier SC1, which is
orthogonal to subcarrier SC0. Further, in the sub-frame 331,
reference signal RS1 is allocated subcarrier SC7; and in the
sub-frame 332, reference signal RS1 is allocated subcarrier SC6,
which is orthogonal to subcarrier SC7.
[0118] Respectively, in signal 310 and signal 320, reference
signals that are allocated a unique channel resource, are
alternately allocated orthogonal subcarriers, whereby reference
signal allocation according to frequency can be distributed,
enabling the accuracy of channel estimation at each frequency to be
improved.
[0119] FIG. 13A is a diagram depicting yet another example of
reference signal design (part 1). FIG. 13B is a diagram depicting
yet another example of reference signal design (part 2). In FIGS.
13A and 13B, descriptions of portions identical to those in FIGS.
3A and 3B will be omitted. In the present design example, among the
reference signal groups in signal 310 and signal 320, reference
signals allocated the same channel resource, are allocated the head
slot of a sub-frame.
[0120] In the sub-frame 1311 and the sub-frame 1312 of signal 310,
reference signal RS0 is allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC0 and
subcarrier SC6, and slot l=4 of subcarrier SC4 and subcarrier SC9.
Further, a null signal is allocated slot l=4 of subcarrier SC4 and
subcarrier SC10.
[0121] In the sub-frame 1321 and the sub-frame 1322 of signal 320,
reference signal RS0 is allocated slot l=0 of subcarrier SC0 and
subcarrier SC6, and slot l=4 of subcarrier SC4 and subcarrier SC10.
Further, a null signal is allocated slot l=4 of subcarrier SC3 and
subcarrier SC9.
[0122] In this manner, in the reference signal groups of signal 310
and signal 320, reference signals allocated the same channel
resource are allocated to the head of a sub-frame (slot l=0),
whereby, for example, channel estimation by the first estimating
unit 132 can be started at the time when the head of the sub-frame
is received. Consequently, channel estimation can be performed
quickly. A range 1301 in FIGS. 13A and 13B represents a unit of the
reference signal group subject to Weiner filtering.
[0123] FIG. 14 is a diagram depicting a first application example
of the communication system. The communication system 100 depicted
in FIG. 1 can be applied to a communication system 1400 depicted in
FIG. 14. The communication system 1400 includes a base station
1410, a base station 1420, and a terminal apparatus 1430 (user
equipment (UE)). The base station 1410 and the base station 1420
both provide a wireless service to the terminal apparatus 1430.
[0124] The base station 1410 includes a wireless communications
unit that transmits to the terminal apparatus 1430, a first
reference signal group that includes multiple reference signals
RS0. The base station 1420 includes a wireless communications unit
that transmits to the terminal apparatus 1430, a second reference
signal group that includes multiple reference signals RS1. A
portion of the reference signal channel resources for the first
reference signal group and for the second reference signal group
are the same.
[0125] The terminal apparatus 1430 includes the channel estimating
apparatus 130 depicted in FIG. 1 or the channel estimating
apparatus 500 depicted in FIG. 5. The terminal apparatus 1430
accurately estimates the received first reference signal group and
second reference signal group. The terminal apparatus 1430, for
example, based on the resulting estimation, selects a communication
counterpart from among the base station 1410 and the base station
1420.
[0126] FIG. 15 is a diagram depicting a second application example
of the communication system. The communication system 100 depicted
in FIG. 1, for example, can be applied to a communication system
1500 depicted in FIG. 15. The communication system 1500 is a
coordinated multi-point (CoMP) system. For example, the
communication system 1500 includes a base station 1510, a base
station 1520, a terminal apparatus 1531, and a terminal apparatus
1532.
[0127] In the communication system 1500, the base station 1510 is a
Serving eNode-B and the base station 1520 is a Collaborative
eNode-B. The terminal apparatus 1531 and the terminal apparatus
1532 can receive both reference signal RS0 transmitted from the
base station 1510 and reference signal RS1 transmitted from the
base station 1520.
[0128] The terminal apparatuses 1531, 1532, respectively, include
the channel estimating apparatus 130 depicted in FIG. 1 or the
channel estimating apparatus 500 depicted in FIG. 5. The terminal
apparatuses 1531, 1532, respectively, accurately estimate the
received first reference signal group and second reference signal
group. The terminal apparatuses 1531, 1532, respectively for
example, based on the resulting estimation, select a communication
counterpart from among the base station 1510 and the base station
1520.
[0129] FIG. 16 is a diagram depicting a third application of the
communication system. The communication system 100 depicted in FIG.
1, for example, can be applied to a communication system 1600
depicted in FIG. 16. The communication system 1600 is a relay
forwarding system that includes a base station 1610, a relay
station 1620, a terminal apparatus 1631, and a terminal apparatus
1632.
[0130] The terminal apparatus 1632 can select from among a direct,
wireless communication path with the base station 1610 and a
wireless communication path with the base station 1610, passing
through the relay station 1620 and the terminal apparatus 1631. The
terminal apparatus 1632 can receive both reference signal RS0
transmitted from the base station 1610 and reference signal RS1
transmitted from the relay station 1620.
[0131] The terminal apparatus 1632 includes the channel estimating
apparatus 130 depicted in FIG. 1 or the channel estimating
apparatus 500 depicted in FIG. 5. The terminal apparatus 1632
accurately estimates the received first reference signal group and
second reference signal group. The terminal apparatus 1632, for
example, based on the resulting estimation, selects at least one
among, the direct communication path with the base station 1610 and
the communication passing through the relay station 1620 and the
terminal apparatus 1631.
[0132] FIG. 17 depicts a fourth application example of the
communication system. The communication system 100 depicted in FIG.
1 can be applied to a communication system 1700 depicted in FIG.
17. The communication system 1700 is a multiple input multiple
output (MIMO) system that includes a base station 1710 and a
terminal apparatus 1720. The base station 1710 includes a first
wireless communications unit 1711 and a second wireless
communications unit 1712.
[0133] The base station 1710 can communicate with the terminal
apparatus 1720 via both the first wireless communications unit 1711
and the second wireless communications unit 1712. The first
wireless communications unit 1711 transmits to the terminal
apparatus 1720, the first reference signal group that includes
reference signal RS0. The second wireless communications unit 1712
transmits to the terminal apparatus 1720, the second reference
signal group that includes reference signal RS1.
[0134] A portion of the reference signal channel resources for the
second reference signal group transmitted by the second wireless
communications unit 1712 and a portion of the reference signal
channel resources for the first reference signal group transmitted
by the first wireless communications unit 1711 are the same. In
this case, the first wireless communications unit 1711 has a
configuration that corresponds to the base station 110 depicted in
FIG. 1; and the second wireless communications unit 1712 has a
configuration that corresponds to the base station 120 depicted in
FIG. 1.
[0135] The terminal apparatus 1720 can receive both reference
signal RS0 output from the first wireless communications unit 1711
and reference signal RS1 output from the second wireless
communications unit 1712. The terminal apparatus 1720 includes the
channel estimating apparatus 130 depicted in FIG. 1 or the channel
estimating apparatus 500 depicted in FIG. 5. The terminal apparatus
1720 accurately estimates the received first reference signal group
and second reference signal group. The terminal apparatus 1720, for
example, based on the resulting estimation, selects a communication
counterpart from among the first wireless communications unit 1711
and the second wireless communications unit 1712.
[0136] In FIGS. 3A and 3B, an example was described in which 4
reference signals respectively using unique channel resources
surround reference signals in signal 310 and in signal 320 that use
the same channel resource. However, the arrangement of the
reference signals using unique channel resources is not limited
hereto. Next, other examples of reference signal arrangement will
be described.
[0137] FIG. 18A is a diagram depicting a first example of reference
signal design modification. In FIGS. 18A to 18F, signal 1810
represents a signal transmitted from the base station 110. Signal
1820 represents a signal transmitted from the base station 120.
Further, similar to the example in FIGS. 3A and 3B, signal 1810 and
signal 1820 are respectively allocated channel resources that are
divided by a horizontal axis and vertical axis grids.
[0138] Reference signal 1811 represents a reference signal that is
in the reference signal group included in signal 1810 and allocated
a common channel resource also allocated to a reference signal in
the reference signal group included in signal 1820. Reference
signal 1812 represents a reference signal that is in the reference
signal group included in signal 1810 and allocated a unique channel
resource that is not allocated to a reference signal in the
reference signal group included in signal 1820.
[0139] Reference signal 1821 represents a reference signal that is
in the reference signal group included in signal 1820 and allocated
a common channel resource that is also allocated to a reference
signal in the reference signal group included in signal 1810.
Reference signal 1822 represents a reference signal that is in
reference signal group included in signal 1820 and allocated a
unique channel resource that is not allocated to a reference signal
in the reference signal group included in signal 1810.
[0140] The example depicted in FIG. 18A, similar to the example
depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in signal 1810, reference signal 1811
is surrounded by 4 reference signals 1812. In this case, in signal
1820 as well, reference signal 1821 is surrounded by 4 reference
signals 1822. According to the present example, in the Weiner
filtering of reference signal 1811 and of each reference signal
1812, reference signal 1811 is accurately estimated based on
reference signal 1812.
[0141] Further, in the Weiner filtering of reference signal 1821
and of each reference signal 1822, reference signal 1821 is
accurately estimated based on reference signal 1822. Consequently,
even if the number of times (for example, n in FIG. 5 or FIG. 11)
that the estimation operation is performed is reduced, channel
estimation can be accurately performed, enabling improved channel
estimating speed.
[0142] Further, since reference signal 1811 and reference signal
1821 are allocated the same channel resource, in signal 1810 and
signal 1820, the number of channel resources used for allocation to
reference signals can be reduced. For example, compared to a case
where each reference signal is allocated a unique channel resource,
the number of channel resources used for allocation to the
reference signals can be cut by 1/4.
[0143] FIG. 18B is a diagram depicting a second example of
reference signal design modification. FIG. 18C is a diagram
depicting a third example of reference signal design modification.
In the example depicted in FIGS. 18B and 18C, in signal 1810,
reference signal 1811 is surrounded by 3 reference signals 1812. In
this case, in signal 1820, reference signal 1821 is surrounded by 3
reference signals 1822. In this example as well, the accuracy of
reference signal estimation at Weiner filtering is improved.
[0144] Further, the number of channel resources used for allocation
to reference signals can be reduced. For example, compared to a
case where each reference signal is allocated a unique channel
resource, the number of channel resources used for allocation to
the reference signals can be reduced by 1/3.
[0145] FIG. 18D is a diagram depicting a fourth example of
reference signal design modification. FIG. 18E is a diagram
depicting a fifth example of reference signal design modification.
FIG. 18F is a diagram depicting a sixth example of reference signal
design modification. In the examples depicted in FIGS. 18D to 18F,
in signal 1810, 1 reference signal 1811 is surrounded by 2
reference signals 1812. In this case, in signal 1820, 1 reference
signal 1821 is surrounded by 2 reference signals 1822. In these
examples as well, the accuracy of reference signal estimation at
Weiner filtering is improved.
[0146] Further, the number of channel resources used for allocation
to reference signals can be reduced. For example, compared to a
case each reference signal is allocated a unique channel resource,
the number of channel resources used for allocation to the
reference signals can be reduced by 1/2.
[0147] As described, according to the present invention, improved
channel estimation accuracy and improved efficiency of channel
resource utilization can be facilitated by providing a method of
accurately estimating each reference signal group having a portion
of mutually common channel resources.
[0148] As a method of accurately estimating each reference signal
group having a portion of mutually common channel resources, first,
reference signals that are allocated unique channel resources are
used to estimate a reference signal that is allocated a channel
resource also allocated to another reference signal. Next, the
estimated reference signal is used to estimate the other reference
signal allocated the same channel resource. As a result, even
reference signals that use the same channel resource can be
accurately estimated.
[0149] Further, a reference signal that is allocated a common
channel resource and is in the reference signal group having the
higher strength among the reference signal groups is estimated
first. Thus, when the reference signal is estimated based on a
reference signal that is allocated a unique channel resource, since
the strength of the reference signal that that is allocated a
unique channel resource is high, the accuracy of estimation can be
further improved.
[0150] As a method of using a reference signal that is allocated a
unique channel resource to estimate a reference signal that is
allocated a common channel resource, a method of using Weiner
filtering was described. However, the method is not limited hereto.
For example, by performing processing that equalizes the reference
signal allocated a unique channel resource and the reference signal
allocated a common channel resource, the latter reference signal
can be estimated.
[0151] Further, by using an estimated reference signal in another
reference signal group to estimate a reference signal that is
allocated a common channel resource and using a reference signal
that is allocated a unique channel resource to estimate a reference
signal allocated a common channel resource, repeatedly, the
accuracy of channel estimation for each reference signal group can
be further improved.
[0152] According to the present invention, improved channel
resource utilization and channel estimation with substantially no
deterioration in accuracy are effected.
[0153] An example of hardware configuration of the wireless base
station in the embodiments above will be described. The respective
functions of the wireless base station are implemented by a portion
of or all of the hardware components below. The wireless base
station includes a wireless interface (IF), a processor, memory, a
logical circuit, a wired IF, etc. The wireless IF is an interface
apparatus for wirelessly communicating with a wireless terminal.
The processor is an apparatus that processes data and for example,
includes a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal
processor (DSP), etc. The memory is a device that stores data and
for example, includes read-only memory (ROM), random access memory
(RAM), etc. The logical circuit is an electronic circuit that
performs logical operations and for example, includes a large-scale
integrated (LSI) circuit, a field-programming gate array (FPGA), an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. The wired IF
is an interface apparatus for performing wired communication with
other wireless base stations connected to a network (i.e., a
backhaul network) on the mobile-telephone system side.
[0154] An example of hardware configuration of the relay station in
the embodiments above will be described. The respective functions
of the relay station are implemented by a portion of or all of the
hardware components below. The relay station includes a wireless
IF, a processor, memory, and a logical circuit. The wireless IF is
an interface apparatus for wirelessly communicating with a wireless
base station. The processor is an apparatus that processes data and
for example, includes a CPU, a DSP, etc. The memory is a device
that stores data and for example, includes ROM, RAM, etc. The
logical circuit is an electronic circuit that performs logical
operations and for example, includes an LSI circuit, an FPGA, an
ASIC, etc.
[0155] An example of hardware configuration of the wireless
terminal in the embodiments above will be described. The respective
functions of the wireless terminal are implemented by a portion of
or all of the hardware components below. The wireless terminal
includes a wireless IF, a processor, memory, a logical circuit, an
input IF, an output IF, etc. The wireless IF is an interface
apparatus for wirelessly communicating with a wireless base
station. The processor is an apparatus that processes data and for
example, includes a CPU, a DSP, etc. The memory is a device that
stores data and for example, includes ROM, RAM, etc. The logical
circuit is an electronic circuit that performs logical operations
and for example, includes an LSI circuit, an FPGA, an ASIC, etc.
The input IF is a device that performs input, such as an operation
button, a microphone, etc. The output IF is a device that performs
output, such as a display, a speaker, etc.
[0156] All examples and conditional language recited herein are
intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in
understanding the invention and the concepts contributed by the
inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being
without limitation to such specifically recited examples and
conditions, nor does the organization of such examples in the
specification relate to a showing of the superiority and
inferiority of the invention. Although the embodiments of the
present invention have been described in detail, it should be
understood that the various changes, substitutions, and alterations
could be made hereto without departing from the spirit and scope of
the invention.
* * * * *