Terminal device and information processing apparatus

[Object] To simplify the operation of a terminal device for performing D2D communication in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of cellular communication is adopted.[Solution] Provided is a terminal device including: a detection unit configured to detect a synchronization signal for wireless communication with a base station; and a control unit configured to control transmission of a synchronization signal for inter-device communication. A radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure. A timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a terminal device and an information processing apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

Device-to-device communication (D2D communication) is a communication form in which a signal is directly transmitted between terminal devices, unlike a communication form in which a signal passes through a base station in cellular communication. Therefore, in the D2D communication, new use forms of terminal devices unlike the existing cellular communication are expected to appear. For example, various applications such as information sharing by data communication between near terminal devices or a group of near terminal devices, information distribution from installed terminal devices, and autonomous communication between devices called Machine to Machine (M2M) can be considered.

With regard to the significant increase in data traffic with the recent increase of smartphones, the D2D communication can also be considered to be utilized in off-loading of data. In recent years, for example, demands for transmission and reception of streaming data of moving images have rapidly increased. However, since moving images generally have large data amounts, the moving images have a problem in that they consume many resources in a Radio Access Network (RAN). Accordingly, when terminal devices are in a state suitable for the D2D communication such as a case in which a distance between terminal devices is small, resource consumption and process loads in the RAN can be suppressed by off-loading moving image data in the D2D communication. Thus, the D2D communication is useful for both communication providers and users. Therefore, at present, the D2D communication is recognized and noticed as one of the important technical areas necessary for Long Term Evolution (LTE) of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standardization commission as well.

In the related art, as disclosed in the following patent literature, communication schemes such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and WiFi (registered trademark) have been adopted in the D2D communication and combinations of such communication schemes and communication schemes of cellular communication such as Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) (registered trademark) and LTE have been combined as an example.

CITATION LIST

Patent Literature

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

Unlike the case of above Patent Literature 1, when the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of cellular communication (for example, LTE) is adopted in the D2D communication, a terminal device for performing the D2D communication needs to acquire synchronization with another device of the D2D communication, in the same way as acquiring synchronization with the base station in the cellular communication. However, when the synchronization method for the cellular communication and the synchronization method for the D2D communication are prepared separately, the terminal device for performing the D2D communication differently uses both of the synchronization method for the cellular communication and the synchronization method for the D2D communication, and thus the operation of the terminal device can become complicated.

Thus, it is desirable to provide a scheme that simplifies the operation of the terminal device for performing the D2D communication in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of the cellular communication is adopted.

Solution to Problem

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a terminal device including: a detection unit configured to detect a synchronization signal for wireless communication with a base station; and a control unit configured to control transmission of a synchronization signal for inter-device communication. A radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure. A timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided an information processing apparatus including: one or more processors; and a memory configured to store a program executed by the one or more processors. The program is a program for executing detecting a synchronization signal for wireless communication with a base station, and controlling transmission of a synchronization signal for inter-device communication. A radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure. A timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a terminal device including: a detection unit configured to detect a synchronization signal for inter-device communication transmitted by another terminal device; and a control unit configured to acquire synchronization for the inter-device communication, on the basis of a detection result of the synchronization signal. A radio frame used in wireless communication with a base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure. A timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

As described above, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to simplify the operation of the terminal device for performing the D2D communication in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of the cellular communication is adopted.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Also, in the present specification and drawings, a plurality of structural elements that have substantially the same function and structure are sometimes distinguished by adding different alphabets after a same reference numeral. For example, a plurality of elements having substantially the same function and structure are distinguished as in terminal devices100A,100B, and100C as necessary. However, when a plurality of structural elements that have substantially the same function and structure are needless to be distinguished from each other, only a same reference sign is assigned. For example, when it is needless to distinguish the terminal devices100A,100B, and100C particularly, they are referred to as terminal device100simply.

Note that description will be made in the following order.1. Introduction2. Schematic Configuration of Communication System According to Present Embodiment3. Configuration of Terminal Device4. Configuration of Base Station5. Flow of Process6. Exemplary Variant6.1. First Exemplary Variant6.2. Second Exemplary Variant6.3. Third Exemplary Variant7. Application Example8. Conclusion

First, with reference toFIGS. 1 to 3, a use case of the D2D communication, a flow up to the D2D communication, a radio resource for the D2D communication, and a synchronization signal will be described.

In a standard LTE system, an evolved node B (eNB) and a UE communicate wirelessly with each other, but UEs do not communicate wirelessly with each other. However, for the purpose of public safety (for example, for the purpose of collision prevention and others) or data offloading, a method in which UEs wirelessly and directly communicate with each other is called for.

The use case of the D2D communication is discussed in service and systems aspects (SA) 1 of 3GPP and others, and is described in TR 22.803. Note that the use case is disclosed in TR 22.803, but specific configuration means is not disclosed. In the following, a specific example of the use case will be described with reference toFIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 1is a first explanatory diagram for describing a specific example of the use case of the D2D communication. Referring toFIG. 1, a plurality of UEs10and an eNB20are illustrated. As the first use case, for example, a UE10A and a UE10B positioned in a cell21formed by the eNB20(i.e., coverage of the eNB20) perform the D2D communication. This D2D communication is referred to as D2D communication in the coverage. As the second use case, for example, a UE10C and a UE10D positioned outside the cell21perform the D2D communication. This D2D communication is referred to as D2D communication outside the coverage. As the third use case, for example, a UE10E positioned inside the cell21and a UE10F positioned outside the cell21perform the D2D communication. This D2D communication is referred to as D2D communication of partial coverage. From the view point of public safety, the D2D communication outside the coverage and the D2D communication of the partial coverage are also important.

FIG. 2is a second explanatory diagram for describing a specific example of the use case of the D2D communication. Referring toFIG. 2, the UE10and the eNB20and the eNB20A and the eNB20B are illustrated. In this example, the eNB20A is operated by a first mobile network operator (MNO), and the eNB20B is operated by a second MNO. Then, the UE10A positioned inside the cell21A formed by the eNB20A and the UE10B positioned inside the cell21B formed by the eNB20B perform the D2D communication. From the view point of public safety, this D2D communication is also important.

For example, synchronization, discovery of another UE, and establishment of connection are performed in order, and thereafter the D2D communication is performed. In the following, consideration will be described with respect to each step of the synchronization, the discovery, and the connection establishment.

Synchronization

When two UEs are positioned in the coverage of an eNB (i.e., the cell formed by the eNB), the above two UEs are capable of synchronizing with each other to a certain extent, by acquiring synchronization with the eNB using a downlink signal from the above eNB.

On the other hand, when at least one of two UEs that are about to perform the D2D communication is positioned outside the coverage of the eNB (i.e., the cell formed by the eNB), the at least one of the above two UEs needs to transmit a synchronization signal for synchronization in the D2D communication.

Discovery of Another UE

The discovery of another UE is performed by transmission and reception of a discovery signal, for example. More specifically, for example, one UE of the two UEs transmits a discovery signal, and the other the UE of the two UEs receives the discovery signal in order to attempt communication with the above one UE.

It is desirable that the discovery signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing in the time direction. Thereby, the timing at which the UE of the reception side attempts reception of the above discovery signal is limited. Note that, as a premise, the two UEs, which are about to perform the D2D communication, acquire synchronization in advance before receiving the discovery signal.

When the two UEs, which are about to perform the D2D communication, are positioned in the coverage of the eNB, the discovery signal can be transmitted by one UE in response to the control by the eNB. On the other hand, when the two UEs, which are about to perform the D2D communication, are positioned outside the coverage of the eNB, it is desirable that the discovery signal is transmitted by a contention based method. From the view point of unified design, it is desirable that the contention based method is adopted for both of the D2D communication inside the coverage and the D2D communication outside the coverage, but different methods may be adopted for the D2D communication inside the coverage and the D2D communication outside the coverage, respectively.

Connection Establishment

Two UEs, which are about to perform the D2D communication, can establish connection as in the following, for example. First, a first UE transmits a discovery signal, and a second UE receives the discovery signal. Thereafter, the second UE transmits to the first UE a request message for requesting establishment of connection. Then, the first UE transmits to the second UE a completion message indicating that the establishment of connection is completed, in response to the above request message.

The D2D communication inside the coverage is not allowed to interfere with the communication between the UE and the eNB. Hence, in the D2D communication inside the coverage, radio resources that are not used in the communication between the UE and the eNB are used, for example. The radio resource may be resource blocks (12 subcarriers×7 orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols), or may be subframes (1 ms). When the above radio resource is a subframe, a specific subframe is released as the radio resource for the D2D communication, and the eNB notifies the UE in advance.

On the other hand, it is desirable that the interference during the D2D communication is considered, with respect to the D2D communication outside the coverage. For example, a method in which a signal is basically transmitted based on contention and when collision of signals occurs the signal is retransmitted as necessary can be adopted.

In LTE, a primary synchronization signal (PSS) and a secondary synchronization signal (SSS) are used as the synchronization signal. The PSS and the SSS are transmitted at predetermined timings in the frame structure of a radio frame. In the following, a specific example of the timings of the PSS and the SSS in FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) will be described with reference toFIG. 3.

FIG. 3is an explanatory diagram for describing a specific example of the timings of the PSS and the SSS. Referring toFIG. 3, ten subframes31included in a radio frame are illustrated. In FDD, a PSS41and a SSS43are transmitted in each of subframe #0 and subframe #5 (i.e., the first subframe and the sixth subframe) among the ten subframes31. More specifically, the SSS43is transmitted in the sixth OFDM symbol among fourteen OFDM symbols included in each of these subframes, and the PSS41is transmitted in the seventh OFDM symbol among the above fourteen OFDM symbols. Note that the PSS41and the SSS43are transmitted using a predetermined number of frequency resources35(seventy two subcarriers) that are positioned at the center of the frequency band33.

Although an example of FDD has been described inFIG. 3, the PSS and the SSS are transmitted at predetermined timings in TDD as well. Specifically, the PSS is transmitted in the third OFDM symbol of each of subframe #1 (the second subframe) and subframe #6 (the seventh subframe). Also, the SSS is transmitted in the fourteenth OFDM symbol of each of subframe #0 (the first subframe) and subframe #5 (the sixth subframe).

The UE obtains the knowledge of timings of each subframe, by detecting the PSS. Also, the UE obtains the knowledge of which subframe is subframe #0, by detecting the SSS.

Further, the UE identifies the cell group that the cell formed by the eNB that transmits the PSS belongs to, from among three cell groups, on the basis of the sequence of the PSS. Also, the UE identifies the cell formed by the eNB that transmits the SSS, from among 168 cell candidates that belong to one cell group, on the basis of the sequence of the SSS. That is, the UE identifies the cell formed by the eNB that transmits the PSS and the SSS, from among 504 cell candidates, on the basis of the sequence of the PSS and the sequence of the SSS.

2. SCHEMATIC CONFIGURATION OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEM ACCORDING TO PRESENT EMBODIMENT

Next, with reference toFIG. 4, the schematic configuration of the communication system1according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.FIG. 4is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the schematic configuration of the communication system1according to the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 4, the communication system1includes a plurality of terminal devices100and a base station200. The communication system1is a system according to LTE, LTE-Advanced, or equivalent communication schemes, for example.

The terminal device100communicates wirelessly with the base station200, when positioned in the cell21formed by the base station200. For example, the terminal device100detects the synchronization signal (for example, the PSS and the SSS) for the wireless communication with the base station200, and acquires synchronization for the wireless communication. Thereafter, the terminal device100performs a random access procedure and a radio resource control (RRC) connection establishment procedure, or the like, with the base station200. Then, the terminal device100communicates wirelessly with the base station200.

In particular, in the present embodiment, the terminal device100performs the D2D communication with another terminal device100. For example, the terminal device100A and the terminal device100B are positioned inside the cell21, and therefore perform the D2D communication in the coverage. Also, for example, the terminal device100C and the terminal device100D are positioned outside the cell21, and therefore perform the D2D communication outside the coverage. Also, for example, the terminal device100E is positioned inside the cell21, and the terminal device100F is positioned outside the cell21, and therefore the terminal device100E and the terminal device100F perform the D2D communication of the partial coverage.

Note that, for example, the terminal device100performs the wireless communication in OFDM in the downlink direction from the base station200to the terminal device100, and communicates wirelessly in single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) in the uplink direction from the terminal device100to the base station200. Also, for example, the terminal device100performs the D2D communication in OFDM.

The base station200communicates wirelessly with the terminal device100that are positioned in the cell21formed by the base station200. For example, the base station200transmits a synchronization signal (for example, the PSS and the SSS) for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, the base station200performs the random access procedure, the RRC connection establishment procedure, and the like, with the UE100for which the synchronization is acquired by the detection of the above synchronization signal. Then, the base station200communicates wirelessly with the terminal device100.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 5 to 9, an example of the configuration of the terminal device100according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 5is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the terminal device100according to the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 5, the terminal device100includes an antenna unit110, a wireless communication unit120, a storage unit130, an input unit140, a display unit150, and a processing unit160.

The antenna unit110receives a radio signal, and outputs the received radio signal to the wireless communication unit120. Also, the antenna unit110transmits a transmission signal output by the wireless communication unit120.

The wireless communication unit120communicates wirelessly with the base station200, when the terminal device100is positioned in the cell21formed by the base station200. Also, the wireless communication unit120performs the wireless communication (the D2D communication) with another terminal device100.

The storage unit130stores programs and data for the operation of the terminal device100.

The input unit140accepts an input by the user of the terminal device100. Then, the input unit140provides the processing unit160with the input result.

The display unit150displays an output screen image (i.e., the output image) from the terminal device100. For example, the display unit150displays the output screen image, in response to the control by the processing unit160(the display control unit169).

The processing unit160provides various functions of the terminal device100. The processing unit160includes an information acquiring unit161, a signal detection unit163, a synchronization control unit165, a transmission control unit167, a connection control unit168, and a display control unit169.

The information acquiring unit161acquires the information necessary for the process by the processing unit160. For example, the information acquiring unit161acquires information from another device via the wireless communication unit120. Also, for example, the information acquiring unit161acquires the information stored in the storage unit130.

Detection of Synchronization Signal

The signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. For example, the base station200transmits a synchronization signal (for example, the PSS and the SSS) for the wireless communication with the base station200, at a predetermined timing in the frame structure of the radio frame. Then, the wireless communication unit120receives the synchronization signal, and the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal. As one example, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal, by checking whether the sequence of the reception signal matches the sequence of the synchronization signal candidate.

Also, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100. For example, when another terminal device100transmits a synchronization signal for the D2D communication, the wireless communication unit120receives the synchronization signal, and the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal. As one example, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal, by checking whether the sequence of the reception signal matches the sequence of the synchronization signal candidate.

Detection of Discovery Signal

Also, for example, the signal detection unit163detects the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100. The discovery signal is a signal with which another terminal device100can be discovered, for the purpose of the D2D communication. Specifically, for example, the above discovery signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing in the radio frame, and the signal detection unit163detects the above discovery signal at the predetermined timing.

Synchronization for Wireless Communication with Base Station

The synchronization control unit165acquires synchronization for the wireless communication, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

For example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the symbol level, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. As one example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the symbol level, by deciding a window (for example, a fast fourier transform (FFT) window) for detecting each OFDM symbol.

Also, for example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the subframe level, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. As one example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the subframe level, by obtaining the knowledge of the timing of each subframe by the detection of the PSS.

Also, for example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the radio frame level, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. As one example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the radio frame level, by obtaining the knowledge of which subframe is subframe #0, by the detection of the SSS.

Synchronization for D2D Communication

The synchronization control unit165acquires synchronization for the above D2D communication, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100.

For example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the symbol level, in the same way as the acquisition of the synchronization for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, for example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the subframe level, in the same way as the acquisition of the synchronization for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, for example, the synchronization control unit165acquires the timing synchronization in the radio frame level, in the same way as the acquisition of the synchronization for the wireless communication with the base station200.

Also, for example, the synchronization control unit165differently uses the synchronization signal, depending on the position of the terminal device100. That is, the synchronization control unit165acquires synchronization for the D2D communication, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the above wireless communication with the base station200, when the terminal device100is positioned in the cell21formed by the base station200. On the other hand, the synchronization control unit165acquires synchronization for the D2D communication, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100, when the terminal device100is not positioned in the above cell21. Thereby, in the case of the D2D communication inside the coverage, the terminal device100is needless to transmit the synchronization signal. As a result, for example, the interference in the cell21is reduced, and the overhead due to the synchronization signal can also be reduced. Also, the terminal device100can acquire synchronization for the D2D communication, even when positioned outside the cell21.

Transmission Control of Synchronization Signal

The transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication. That is, in response to the control by the transmission control unit167, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is transmitted by the terminal device100. As one example, controlling of the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is equal to inserting the synchronization signal for the D2D communication into a series of transmission signals.

Frame Structure

In particular, in the present embodiment, the radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station200and the radio frame used in the D2D communication have a same frame structure. In the following, with respect to this point, a specific example will be described with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 6is an explanatory diagram for describing an example of the structure of the radio frame used in the D2D communication in the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 6, the radio frame51used in the D2D communication in the present embodiment is illustrated. The radio frame51includes ten subframes53(subframes53of #0 to #9). Further, each subframe53includes two slots55(the first slot55and the second slot55). Then, each slot includes seven symbols57(symbols57of #0 to #6). These symbols57are OFDM symbols, for example. As described above, the structure of the radio frame used in the D2D communication in the present embodiment is same as the structure of the radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station.

Synchronization Signal for D2D Communication

For example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication has the same configuration as the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

More specifically, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is the PSS and the SSS. Then, for example, the PSS which is the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station and the PSS which is the synchronization signal for the D2D communication include a sequence of the same length. Also, the SSS which is the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station and the SSS which is the synchronization signal for the D2D communication include a sequence of the same length.

Timing of Synchronization Signal

Further, in particular in the present embodiment, the timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the above same frame structure is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200in the above same frame structure. That is, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the above synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner that the timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the above same frame structure is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200in the above same frame structure.

Also, for example, FDD is adopted for the wireless communication between the base station200and the terminal device100, and the D2D communication between the terminal devices100. In this case, the PSS for the D2D communication is transmitted at OFDM symbol #6 (i.e., the seventh OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5. Further, the SSS for the D2D communication is transmitted at OFDM symbol #5 (i.e., the sixth OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5.

Also, TDD may be adopted for the wireless communication between the base station200and the terminal device100, and the D2D communication between the terminal devices100. In this case, the PSS for the D2D communication may be transmitted at OFDM symbol #2 (i.e., the third OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #1 and subframe #6. Further, the SSS for the D2D communication may be transmitted at OFDM symbol #6 (i.e., the fourteenth OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the second slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5.

As described above, the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is controlled. Thereby, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is capable of being received by another terminal device100, with the same reception operation as the reception operation with respect to the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station200(the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200). Hence, another terminal device100is needless to perform different operations, when receiving the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200, and when receiving the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100. That is, the operation of the terminal device for performing the D2D communication100in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of the cellular communication is adopted is simplified more.

Use Case in which Synchronization Signal is Transmitted by Terminal Device

First, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is transmitted by the terminal device100, for the purpose of the D2D communication outside the coverage. That is, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner that the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is transmitted when the terminal device100is positioned outside the cell21formed by the base station100.

Second, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is transmitted by the terminal device100, for the purpose of the D2D communication of the partial coverage. That is, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner that the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is transmitted when the position condition of the terminal device100is satisfied. The above position condition will be described later.

Note that, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is not transmitted by the terminal device100, for the purpose of the D2D communication inside the coverage. That is, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner that the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is not transmitted, when the terminal device100is positioned in the cell21formed by the base station100, and the above position condition is not satisfied. Note that the synchronization for the D2D communication in the coverage can be acquired on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

Synchronization Signal for D2D Communication of Partial Coverage

For example, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

Position Condition

The transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200, when the position condition of the terminal device100is satisfied, for example.

For example, the above position condition includes that the terminal device100is positioned at a cell edge of the cell21formed by the base station200. For example, whether or not the terminal device100is positioned at the cell edge of the cell21can be determined on the basis of a reference signal received power (RSRP) of the reference signal transmitted by the base station200. As one example, the terminal device100can be determined to be positioned at the cell edge of the cell21, when the above RSRP is a value within a predetermined range.

Further, for example, the above position condition includes that the terminal device100is not positioned at the vicinity of the adjacent cell of the cell21. For example, whether or not the terminal device100is positioned at the vicinity of the adjacent cell of the cell21can be determined on the basis of the RSRP of the reference signal transmitted by another base station200. As one example, when the RSRP of the reference signal transmitted by any other base stations200is less than a predetermined threshold value, it can be determined that the terminal device100is not positioned at the vicinity of the adjacent cell of the cell21. In the following, with reference toFIG. 7, a specific example when the above position condition is satisfied and when the above position condition is not satisfied will be described.

FIG. 7is an explanatory diagram for describing an example when the position condition of the terminal device100is satisfied and when the position condition is not satisfied. Referring toFIG. 7, a terminal device100A, a terminal device100B, a terminal device100C and a terminal device100D, and a base station200are illustrated. Also, a cell21A formed by the base station200, and an adjacent cell21B are illustrated. First, the terminal device100A is positioned at a region other than the cell edge of the cell21A, and therefore the above position condition is not satisfied with respect to the terminal device100A. Hence, the terminal device100A does not transmit a synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Also, the terminal device100B is positioned at the cell edge of the cell21A and positioned at the vicinity of the adjacent cell21B, and therefore the above position condition is not satisfied with respect to the terminal device100B. Hence, the terminal device100B does not transmit a synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Also, the terminal device100C is positioned at the cell edge of the cell21A but is not positioned at the vicinity of the adjacent cell21B, and therefore the above position condition is satisfied with respect to the terminal device100C. Hence, the terminal device100C transmits a synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Note that the terminal device100D is positioned outside the cell21A, and therefore the above position condition is not satisfied with respect to the terminal device100D. However, the terminal device100D transmits a synchronization signal for the D2D communication, for the purpose of the D2D communication outside the coverage.

The control in the above position condition enables the terminal device100to transmit a synchronization signal for the D2D communication, for the purpose of the D2D communication of the partial coverage, for example.

Timing to Transmit Synchronization Signal for D2D Communication

As the first example, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the above synchronization signal for the above inter-device communication, in such a manner to set at the timing a predetermined time after the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

More specifically, for example, the above radio frame includes a plurality of subframes, and the above predetermined time is a time corresponding to a predetermined number of subframes. In the following, with respect to this point, a specific example will be described with reference toFIG. 8.

FIG. 8is an explanatory diagram for describing the first example of the timing at which the terminal device transmits the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 8, a radio frame51A used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the D2D communication51B are illustrated. For example, the radio frame51B is shifted backward by the time corresponding to 1 subframe from the radio frame51A. That is, the radio frame51B is transmitted by the terminal device100, so as to get behind the radio frame51A by the time corresponding to 1 subframe. As a result, the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is a timing after 1 subframe from the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. For example, as described above, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

Thereby, the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100in the cell21and the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100are transmitted at different timings. As a result, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100does not interfere with the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100. Hence, the possibility that the synchronization fails in the cell21is prevented from increasing.

Note that the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200may be the transmission timing of the synchronization signal by the base station200, and may be the reception timing of the synchronization signal by the terminal device100. For example, the transmission timing of the synchronization signal by the base station200can be calculated on the basis of the timing advance value.

As the second example, the transmission control unit167may control the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner to set at the same timing as the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. In the following, with respect to this point, a specific example will be described with reference toFIG. 9.

FIG. 9is an explanatory diagram for describing the second example of the timing at which the terminal device transmits the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 9, a radio frame51A used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the D2D communication51B are illustrated. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the radio frame51B is transmitted by the terminal device100at the same timing as the radio frame51A. As a result, the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. For example, as described above, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

Thereby, the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100in the cell21and the synchronization signal for the D2D communication by the terminal device100are transmitted at the same timing. As a result, for example, the same timing as the cellular communication is used for the D2D communication as well, in the cell21and its vicinity. Hence, for example, the control of the D2D communication by the base station200can be simplified more.

Note that, as described in connection with the first example, the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200may be the transmission timing of the synchronization signal by the base station200, and may be the reception timing of the synchronization signal by the terminal device100.

Also, in the second example, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained from the detection result of the synchronization signal in a certain radio frame, the transmission timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the radio frame after the above certain radio frame may be controlled. As one example, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained from the detection result of the synchronization signal in the radio frame in which the system frame number (SFN)=N, the timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the radio frame in which SFN=N+1 may be controlled.

Also, the terminal device100may be such that it does not transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the radio frame in which the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200is detected, but transmits the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the radio frame in which the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200is not detected. As described above, the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200and the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication may be each performed intermittently.

Transmission Control of Discovery Signal

The transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the discovery signal with which the terminal device100can be discovered for the purpose of the D2D communication.

For example, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the above discovery signal, in such a manner that the above discovery signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing in the radio frame.

Transmission Control of Acknowledgement Signal in Response to Discovery Signal

For example, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of an acknowledgement signal in response to the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100.

Specifically, for example, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the above acknowledgement signal, in such a manner that the above acknowledgement signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing in the radio frame, when the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100is detected.

The connection control unit168executes a connection establishment procedure.

For example, the connection control unit168executes an RRC connection establishment procedure with the base station100. For example, the connection control unit168transmits an RRC connection request message, an RRC connection setup completion message, or the like to the base station200via the wireless communication unit120, and receives an RRC connection setup message or the like from the base station200.

Also, for example, the connection control unit168executes a connection establishment procedure for the D2D communication with another terminal device100. For example, the connection control unit168transmits to and receives from another terminal device100various types of messages for the connection establishment, via the wireless communication unit120.

The display control unit169controls the display of an output screen image by the display unit150. For example, the display control unit169generates an output screen image to be displayed by the display unit150, and displays the output screen image on the display unit150.

4. CONFIGURATION OF BASE STATION

Next, with reference toFIG. 10, an example of the configuration of the base station200according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 10is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the base station200according to the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 10, the base station200includes an antenna unit210, a wireless communication unit220, a network communication unit230, a storage unit240, and a processing unit250.

The antenna unit210receives a radio signal, and outputs the received radio signal to the wireless communication unit220. Also, the antenna unit210transmits a transmission signal output by the wireless communication unit220.

The wireless communication unit220communicates wirelessly with the terminal device100that are positioned in the cell21formed by the base station200.

The network communication unit230communicates with another communication node. For example, the network communication unit230communicates with another base station200. Also, for example, the network communication unit230communicates with a core network node.

The storage unit240stores programs and data for the operation of the base station200.

The processing unit250provides various functions of the base station200. The processing unit250includes an information providing unit251and a transmission control unit253.

The information providing unit251provides the terminal device100with various types of information. For example, the information providing unit251provides the terminal device100with information in system information. Also, for example, the information providing unit251provides the terminal device100with information by the RRC signaling. Note that the information providing unit251provides the terminal device100with information, via the wireless communication unit220.

The transmission control unit253controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

For example, the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200includes a PSS and an SSS.

Also, for example, FDD is adopted for the wireless communication between the base station200and the terminal device100. In this case, the PSS is transmitted at OFDM symbol #6 (i.e., the seventh OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5. Further, the SSS is transmitted at OFDM symbol #5 (i.e., the sixth OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5.

Also, TDD may be adopted for the wireless communication between the base station200and the terminal device100. In this case, the PSS may be transmitted at OFDM symbol #2 (i.e., the third OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the first slot of each of subframe #1 and subframe #6. Further, the SSS may be transmitted at OFDM symbol #6 (i.e., the fourteenth OFDM symbol of the subframe) of the second slot of each of subframe #0 and subframe #5.

5. SEQUENCE OF PROCESS

Next, with reference toFIG. 11, an example of the communication control process according to the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 11is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the schematic flow of the communication control process according to the present embodiment. The communication control process is a process until the D2D communication between the terminal devices100is performed.

First, the terminal device100A transmits a synchronization signal for the D2D communication (S401). In the present embodiment, the timing of the above synchronization signal in the frame structure of the radio frame is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200in the above frame structure.

Then, the terminal device100B detects the above synchronization signal (S403), and acquires synchronization for the D2D communication on the basis of the detection result of the above synchronization signal (S405).

Further, the terminal device100A transmits a discovery signal with which the terminal device100A can be discovered for the purpose of the D2D communication (S407). Then, the terminal device100B detects the discovery signal (S409), and transmits an acknowledgement signal in response to the discovery signal (S411).

Thereafter, the terminal device100A and the terminal device100B performs a connection establishment procedure for the connection establishment for the D2D communication, (S413).

Then, the terminal device100A and the terminal device100B perform the D2D communication (S415).

Next, with reference toFIGS. 12 to 15, first to third exemplary variants according to the present embodiment will be described.

First, with reference toFIGS. 12 and 13, the first exemplary variant according to the present embodiment will be described.

As described above, in the structure of the radio frame, the timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. Further, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100has the same configuration as the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. Thereby, for example, the operation of the terminal device for performing the D2D communication100in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of the cellular communication is adopted can be simplified more.

However, if the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100has the same configuration as the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200, another terminal device100is unable to determine whether the synchronization signal is the synchronization signal for the D2D communication or the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200, when detecting the synchronization signal. Hence, after the acquisition of the synchronization, the above other terminal device100is unable to decide whether to receive the discovery signal of the D2D communication or to acquire the system information provided by the base station200.

Thus, in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment, the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200is the signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more identifiers (hereinafter, referred to as “cell ID”) for identifying the cell formed by the base station. On the other hand, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more other identifiers (hereinafter, D2D communication ID) different from the above one or more cell IDs.

Thereby, another terminal device100, which detects the synchronization signal, can determine which synchronization signal has been detected. Hence, the other terminal device100can decide the operation after the acquisition of the synchronization.

Acquisition of Priority Information

For example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one identifier among a plurality of other identifiers (i.e., D2D communication ID) different from the above one or more cell IDs. Then, in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment, for example, the information acquiring unit161acquires priority information indicating the priority of detection among the signals corresponding to the above plurality of D2D communication IDs.

Specifically, for example, when the base station200provides the above priority information in the system information or by RRC signaling, the information acquiring unit161acquires the priority information via the wireless communication unit120. Then, the above acquired priority information is retained. That is, the above acquired priority information is stored in the storage unit130.

Selection of Priority Information

For example, the information acquiring unit161acquires first priority information indicating the above priority and second priority information indicating the above priority. Specifically, for example, the above first priority information is the priority information retained by the terminal device100(i.e., the priority information store in the storage unit130), and the above second priority information is the priority information provided by another terminal device100via the D2D communication. Note that the information acquiring unit161can provide the above first priority information to another terminal device100via the D2D communication.

Also, each of the above first priority information and the above second priority information includes information indicating an acquisition time or an acquisition site when provided by the base station200. Then, the information acquiring unit161selects one of the above first priority information and the above second priority information, on the basis of the information of the above acquisition time or the above acquisition site included in the above first priority information and the above second priority information. As one example, the information acquiring unit161selects the one acquired from the base station200more recently, among the first priority information and the second priority information, on the basis of the above acquisition time. As another example, the information acquiring unit161may select the one acquired at a closer position, among the first priority information and the second priority information, on the basis of the above acquisition site.

Thereafter, for example, the above selected priority information is retained. That is, the above selected priority information is stored in the storage unit130. Also, for example, the priority information that is not selected is discarded. That is, the priority information that is not selected is erased from the storage unit130.

Detection of Synchronization Signal

As described above, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100.

Detection of Synchronization Signal for Wireless Communication with Base Station and Synchronization Signal for D2d Communication

In particular, in the first exemplary variant, for example, the signal detection unit163detects the reception signal corresponding to one cell ID among one or more cell IDs, as the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, for example, the signal detection unit163detects the reception signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs, as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100. In the following, with respect to this point, a specific example will be described with reference toFIG. 12.

FIG. 12is an explanatory diagram for describing an example of the cell ID and the D2D communication ID according to the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 12, the cell ID of the past and the ID according to the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment are illustrated. In the communication system of the past, 504 (168×3) IDs are prepared as cell IDs, and the synchronization signal (the PSS and the SSS) corresponds to one of the cell IDs. Also, one of the sequences corresponds to each of these 504 IDs. On the other hand, in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment, a part (for example, 30 IDs) among 504 IDs are prepared as the D2D communication ID, and the remainder (for example, 474 IDs) among 504 IDs are prepared as the cell ID in the same way as the past. Also, in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment as well, one of the sequences corresponds to each of 504 IDs (474 cell IDs and 30 D2D communication IDs).

As a specific process, for example, when the sequence corresponding to the cell ID and the sequence of the reception signal match each other, the signal detection unit163detects the reception signal as the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200. Also, when the sequence corresponding to the D2D communication ID and the sequence of the reception signal match each other, the signal detection unit163detects the reception signal as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100.

Note that one or more D2D communication IDs and the sequences corresponding to one or more D2D communication IDs are stored in advance in the storage unit130, for example. One or more D2D communication IDs and the sequences corresponding to one or more D2D communication IDs may be stored in the storage unit130by an operator before shipment or sale of the terminal device100, or may be provided in the system information or by the RRC signaling and stored in the storage unit130.

Detection of Synchronization Signal for D2D Based on Priority Information

For example, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100, in accordance with the priority of detection among the signals corresponding to a plurality of D2D communication IDs.

Specifically, for example, the signal detection unit163checks whether the signal (sequence) corresponding to the D2D communication ID and the reception signal (sequence) match each other, in the order from the signal with a higher priority among the signals (sequences) corresponding to a plurality of D2D communication IDs. Then, the signal detection unit163detects the reception signal (sequence) that matches the signal (sequence) corresponding to the D2D communication ID, as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

By the above detection in accordance with priority, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is detected more efficiently, for example.

Note that, for example, when the information acquiring unit161acquires the first priority information and the second priority information, the signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in accordance with the priority indicated by the one selected from among the above first priority information and the above second priority information.

Thereby, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication can be detected in accordance with newer priority. As a result, for example, even when the terminal device100that is about to perform the D2D communication is positioned outside the cell21, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication is detected more efficiently.

Transmission Control of Synchronization Signal

As described above, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

In particular, in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment, the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200is the signal corresponding to one cell ID among one or more cell IDs. On the other hand, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs different from the above one or more cell IDs. This point is as described above with reference toFIG. 12.

As a specific process, for example, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner that the sequence corresponding to one D2D communication ID is transmitted as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication. As one example, referring toFIG. 12again, the sequence corresponding to one D2D communication ID among 30 D2D communication IDs is transmitted as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

Note that, for example, not only one D2D communication ID, but a plurality of D2D communication IDs are prepared. That is, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs different from the above one or more cell IDs. As described above, a plurality of D2D communication IDs are prepared, and thereby different IDs can be used for a plurality of D2D communication groups, for example.

In particular, in the first exemplary variant, for example, the information providing unit251provides the terminal device100with the priority information indicating the priority of detection among the signals corresponding to a plurality of D2D communication IDs. The information providing unit251may provide the above priority information in the system information, or may provide the above priority information by the RRC signaling.

Communication Control Process

First, the communication control process according to the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment is same as the communication control process according to the present embodiment described with reference toFIG. 11.

Note that, in the first exemplary variant in particular, the terminal device100A transmits the signal (sequence) corresponding to one D2D communication ID among the D2D communication IDs, as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication (S401).

Also, in the first exemplary variant in particular, the terminal device100B detects the reception signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs, as the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in the detection of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication (S403). Also, for example, the terminal device100B detects the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in accordance with the priority of detection among the signals corresponding to a plurality of D2D communication IDs.

Selection of Priority Information

Next, with reference toFIG. 13, an example of the process for the selection of the priority information in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 13is a flowchart illustrating an example of the schematic flow of the process for the selection of the priority information in the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment. The process is executed by the terminal device100.

First, the information acquiring unit161acquires the priority information indicating the priority of detection among the signals corresponding to a plurality of D2D communication IDs (S421).

Then, if the priority information indicating the above priority is already retained (S423: Yes), the information acquiring unit161determines whether newly acquired priority information is acquired from the base station200more recently than the already retained priority information, on the basis of the information of acquisition time included in each priority information (S425).

If the newly acquired priority information is acquired from the base station200more recently than the already retained priority information (S425. Yes), the information acquiring unit161discards the already retained priority information (S427), and retains the newly acquired priority information (S429). Then, the process ends.

On the other hand, if the newly acquired priority information is acquired from the base station200before the already retained priority information (S425: No), the information acquiring unit161discards the newly acquired priority information (S431). Then, the process ends.

Note that, if the priority information indicating the above priority is not retained yet (S423: No), the information acquiring unit161retains the newly acquired priority information (S429). Then, the process ends.

Next, the second exemplary variant according to the present embodiment will be described.

A plurality of base stations do not necessarily synchronize with each other. In particular, a plurality of base stations operated by respective different MNOs are considered to be unsynchronized with each other. As described above, the terminal device100positioned in the coverages of different base stations can be unsynchronized with each other, even if acquiring synchronization utilizing the synchronization signal from the base station. Also, a plurality of terminal devices100positioned outside the coverage of the base station can transmit the synchronization signal at different timings. Hence, a plurality of terminal devices100positioned outside the coverage of the base station can be unsynchronized with each other, even if acquiring synchronization utilizing the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

As described above, some terminal devices100synchronize with each other, and other terminal devices100do not synchronize with each other. Here, a group of terminal devices100that synchronize with each other is referred to as synchronization group. Then, the terminal devices100that belong to the same synchronization group (i.e., the terminal devices100that synchronize with each other) are able to perform the D2D communication, but the terminal devices100that belong to different synchronization groups (i.e., the terminal devices100that do not synchronize with each other) are unable to perform the D2D communication.

On the other hand, the terminal device100transmits the discovery signal with which the terminal device100can be discovered for the purpose of the D2D communication, at a predetermined timing in the radio frame, for example. Also, the terminal device100detects the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100, at the above predetermined timing in the radio frame.

However, when there are different synchronization groups between which synchronization timings are slightly different, the discovery signal transmitted by the terminal device100of one synchronization group is detected by the terminal device100of another synchronization group, and the acknowledgement signal can be transmitted in response to the discovery signal. It is concerned that the radio resource is wasted by the transmission of this acknowledgement signal.

Thus, in the second exemplary variant of the present embodiment, the signal corresponding to the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, among one or more D2D communication IDs, is transmitted as the above discovery signal.

Thereby, for example, the terminal device which has received the discovery signal can determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal is the same device as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. For example, this enables the terminal device which has received the discovery signal, to transmit the acknowledgement signal when the discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal, and to not transmit the acknowledgement signal when the above discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device different from the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. As a result, the waste of the radio resources can be reduced.

Also, the D2D communication ID is utilized as the synchronization group ID for identifying the synchronization group, and the terminal devices100that belong to the same synchronization group can transmit the discovery signal corresponding to the synchronization group ID. In this case, for example, according to the second exemplary variant, the terminal device which has received the discovery signal can determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal belongs to the same synchronization group as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. For example, this enables the terminal device which has received the discovery signal, to transmit the acknowledgement signal when the discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device that belongs to the same synchronization group, and to not transmit the acknowledgement signal when the above discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device that belongs to another synchronization group. As a result, the waste of the radio resources can be reduced.

Transmission Control of Synchronization Signal

As described above, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Also, as described in the first exemplary variant, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs.

The above D2D communication ID can be utilized as the synchronization group ID for identifying the synchronization group, for example.

Transmission Control of Discovery Signal

The transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the discovery signal with which the terminal device100can be discovered for the purpose of the D2D communication.

As described in the first exemplary variant, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs. Then, in the second exemplary variant in particular, the above discovery signal is the signal corresponding to the above one D2D communication ID (the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication) among one or more D2D communication IDs. Note that the above discovery signal can be said to be the signal corresponding to the synchronization group ID.

As described above, this reduces the waste of the radio resources.

Content of Discovery Signal

As the first example, the above discovery signal includes the above one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs. That is, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100corresponds to one D2D communication ID, and the above discovery signal includes the one D2D communication ID.

Specifically, for example, the transmission control unit167acquires the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100, and inserts the discovery signal including the acquired D2D communication ID.

For example, this discovery signal enables the terminal device which has received the discovery signal to determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal is the same device as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal, without having any other information in advance. Alternatively, the terminal device which has received the discovery signal is enabled to determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal belongs to the same synchronization group as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal, without having any other information in advance.

As the second example, the above discovery signal may be one of one or more signals corresponding to the above one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs. That is, it may be such that the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100corresponds to one D2D communication ID, and the above discovery signal is one of one or more signals corresponding to the one D2D communication ID.

Specifically, for example, it may be such that one or more signals (sequences) are prepared for each D2D communication ID, and each terminal device100retains in advance each D2D communication ID and the information of the above one or more signals (sequences) prepared for each D2D communication ID. The transmission control unit167may acquire the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100, and select one signal (sequence) from among one or more signals (sequences) corresponding to the D2D communication ID. Then, the transmission control unit167may insert the above selected one signal as the discovery signal.

For example, this discovery signal allows the discovery signal to not include the D2D communication ID, and thereby makes the data amount of the discovery signal smaller. Note that a plurality of signals corresponding to the D2D communication ID are prepared, to decrease the possibility that the same discovery signal is transmitted by different terminal devices100in the same synchronization group, for example. As a result, the possibility of collision of the discovery signals in the synchronization group can be reduced.

Detection of Discovery Signal

The signal detection unit163detects the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100.

In the second exemplary variant in particular, the above discovery signal is the signal corresponding to the above one D2D communication ID (the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication) among one or more D2D communication IDs.

As described above, as the first example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100corresponds to one D2D communication ID, and the above discovery signal includes the one D2D communication ID. In this case, for example, the signal detection unit163acquires the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal as the detection result of the synchronization signal, and detects the discovery signal including the D2D communication ID.

Also, as described above, as the second example, it may be such that the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100corresponds to one D2D communication ID, and the above discovery signal is one of one or more signals corresponding to the one D2D communication ID. In this case, the terminal device100may retain in advance each D2D communication ID and the information of one or more signals (sequences) prepared for each D2D communication ID. Then, the signal detection unit163may acquire the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal as the detection result of the synchronization signal, and acquire the information of one or more signals (sequences) corresponding to the D2D communication ID, and then detect the discovery signal which is one signal of the above one or more signals.

Transmission Control of Acknowledgement Signal in Response to Discovery Signal

For example, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the acknowledgement signal in response to the discovery signal transmitted by another terminal device100.

Specifically, for example, the transmission control unit167acquires the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Then, when the discovery signal corresponding to the D2D communication ID is detected, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the above acknowledgement signal in such a manner that the above acknowledgement signal is transmitted at a predetermined timing in the radio frame.

Communication Control Process

First, the communication control process according to the second exemplary variant of the present embodiment is same as the communication control process according to the first exemplary variant of the present embodiment.

Note that, in the second exemplary variant in particular, the discovery signal is the signal corresponding to the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100A, in transmission of the discovery signal (S407) and detection of the discovery signal (S409).

Also, in the detection of the discovery signal (S409), the terminal device100B does not perform the transmission (S411) of the acknowledgement signal, when not detect the above discovery signal. Then, the following each process (S413and S415) is not performed either.

Next, with reference toFIGS. 14 and 15, the third exemplary variant according to the present embodiment will be described.

As described in the first exemplary variant, for example, not only one D2D communication ID, but a plurality of D2D communication IDs are prepared. However, it is possible that different terminal devices100(or the terminal devices100that belong to different synchronization groups) transmits the synchronization signal corresponding to the same D2D communication ID. Hence, for example, it is possible that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more terminal devices100, and another terminal device100receives the synchronization signal from the above two or more terminal devices100. As a result, it is concerned that the above other terminal device100becomes unable to acquire synchronization.

Thus, in the third exemplary variant of the present embodiment, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is changed from the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs, to the signal corresponding to another D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs.

For example, this prevents the synchronization from being unacquirable continually due to the same synchronization signal transmitted by two or more terminal devices100.

In particular, in the third exemplary variant, for example, the synchronization control unit165determines whether the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100. More specifically, for example, the synchronization control unit165determines that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100, when three or more PSSs or three or more SSSs are detected in one radio frame.

For example, it is assumed that the synchronization control unit165determines that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100. In this case, the synchronization control unit165notifies another terminal device100connected to the terminal device100among the above two or more other terminal devices100, that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by another device. In the following, with reference toFIG. 14, a specific example of a case in which this notification is transmitted will be described.

FIG. 14is an explanatory diagram for describing an example of the case in which the notification is transmitted according to the third exemplary variant of the present embodiment. Referring toFIG. 15, a terminal device100A, a terminal device100B, and a terminal device100C are illustrated. The terminal device100A is positioned inside the communication range11B of the terminal device100B, and is connected to the terminal device100B. That is, the terminal device100A is capable of performing the D2D communication with the terminal device100B. On the other hand, the terminal device100A is positioned inside the communication range11C of the terminal device100C, but is not connected to the terminal device100C. Then, in this example, the terminal device100B and the terminal device100C transmit the same synchronization signal. As a result, the terminal device100A detects three or more PSSs and three or more SSSs in one radio frame, and therefore is unable to acquire synchronization for the D2D communication with the terminal device100B. Then, the terminal device100A notifies the terminal device100B that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by another device.

Transmission Control of Synchronization Signal

As described above, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication.

In particular, in the third exemplary variant, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs different from the above one or more cell IDs.

Also, in the third exemplary variant in particular, for example, the transmission control unit167changes the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, from the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs, to the signal corresponding to another D2D communication ID among the above plurality of D2D communication IDs, in response to the notification from another terminal device100. For example, the notification from the above other terminal device100is a notification indicating that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by another device.

Thereby, the synchronization signal can be changed, when the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more terminal devices100, and another terminal device100becomes unable to acquire synchronization actually, for example. Hence, the above other terminal device100is prevented from being unable to acquire synchronization continually. Also, for example, the synchronization signal is changed only when necessary, and therefore a situation in which frequent reacquisition of the synchronization is necessary is prevented.

Note that, as another example, the transmission control unit167may change the synchronization signal for the D2D communication periodically, from the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs, to the signal corresponding to another D2D communication ID among the above plurality of D2D communication IDs.

Thereby, for example, the same synchronization signal is prevent from being transmitted continually by two or more terminal devices100. Hence, the terminal device100that are positioned at the vicinity of the above two or more terminal devices100is prevented from being unable to acquire synchronization continually.

With reference toFIG. 15, an example of the process for the notification according to the third exemplary variant of the present embodiment will be described.FIG. 15is a flowchart illustrating an example of the schematic flow of the process for the notification according to the third exemplary variant of the present embodiment. The process is executed by the terminal device100.

The signal detection unit163detects the synchronization signal (the PSS and the SSS) for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100(S461).

Then, the synchronization control unit165determines whether the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100(S463).

If the same synchronization signal is not transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100(S463: No), the synchronization control unit165acquires synchronization for the D2D communication, on the basis of the detection result of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by another terminal device100(S465). Then, the process ends.

On the other hand, if the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more other terminal devices100(S463: Yes), the synchronization control unit165notifies another terminal device100connected to the terminal device100among the above two or more other terminal devices100, that the same synchronization signal is transmitted by another device (S467). Then, the process ends.

The technology related to the present disclosure can be applied to various products. For example, the base station200may be realized as any one kind of evolved NodeB (eNB) such as a macro eNB (MeNB), a pico eNB (PeNB), or a home eNB (HeNB). Instead, the base station200may be realized as another kind of base station such as a NodeB or a base transceiver station (BTS). The base station200may include a main body (also referred to as a base station device) controlling radio communication and at least one remote radio head (RRH) disposed at a different location than the main body.

Further, the terminal device100may be realized as, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a notebook PC, a portable game console, or a digital camera, or as an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation device. In addition, the terminal device100may also be realized as a terminal that conducts machine-to-machine (M2M) communication (also called a machine-type communication (MTC) terminal). Furthermore, the terminal device100may be a radio communication module mounted onboard these terminals (for example, an integrated circuit module configured on a single die).

<<7.1. Applications Related to Base Station>>

FIG. 16is a block diagram illustrating a first example of a schematic configuration of an eNB to which technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied. An eNB800includes one or more antennas810, and a base station device820. The respective antennas810and the base station device820may be connected to each other via an RF cable.

Each antenna810includes a single or a plurality of antenna elements (for example, a plurality of antenna elements constituting a MIMO antenna), and is used by the base station device820to transmit and receive radio signals. The eNB800may include a plurality of antennas810as illustrated inFIG. 16, and the plurality of antennas810may respectively correspond to a plurality of frequency bands used by the eNB800, for example. Note that althoughFIG. 16illustrates an example of the eNB800including a plurality of antennas810, the eNB800may also include a single antenna810.

The base station device820is equipped with a controller821, memory822, a network interface823, and a radio communication interface825.

The controller821may be a CPU or DSP, for example, and causes various higher-layer functions of the base station device820to operate. For example, the controller821generates a data packet from data inside a signal processed by the radio communication interface825, and forwards the generated packet via the network interface823. The controller821may also generate a bundled packet by bundling data from a plurality of baseband processors, and forward the generated bundled packet. The memory822includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs executed by the controller821as well as various control data (such as a terminal list, transmit power data, and scheduling data, for example).

The network interface823is a communication interface for connecting the base station device820to a core network824. The network interface823may also be a wired communication interface, or a wireless communication interface for wireless backhaul. In the case in which the network interface823is a wireless communication interface, the network interface823may use a higher frequency band for wireless communication than the frequency band used by the radio communication interface825.

The radio communication interface825supports a cellular communication scheme such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) or LTE-Advanced, and provides a radio connection to a terminal positioned inside the cell of the eNB800via an antenna810. Typically, the radio communication interface825may include a baseband (BB) processor826, an RF circuit827, and the like. The BB processor826may conduct processes such as encoding/decoding, modulation/demodulation, and multiplexing/demultiplexing, for example, and executes various signal processing in a layer 1, a layer 2 (for example, Medium Access Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)), and a layer 3 (for example, Radio Resource Control (RRC)). The BB processor826may be a module including memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes such a program, and related circuits. The functions of the BB processor826may also be modifiable by updating the program. Also, the module may be a card or a blade inserted into a slot of the base station device820, or a chip mounted onboard the card or the blade. Meanwhile, the RF circuit827may include components such as a mixer, a filter, and an amp, and transmits or receives a radio signal via an antenna810.

The radio communication interface825may also include a plurality of BB processors826as illustrated inFIG. 16, and the plurality of BB processors826may respectively correspond to a plurality of frequency bands used by the eNB800, for example. In addition, the radio communication interface825may also include a plurality of RF circuits827as illustrated inFIG. 16, and the plurality of RF circuits827may respectively correspond to a plurality of antenna elements, for example. Note that althoughFIG. 16illustrates an example of the radio communication interface825including a plurality of BB processors826and a plurality of RF circuits827, the radio communication interface825may also include a single BB processor826or a single RF circuit827.

FIG. 17is a block diagram illustrating a second example of a schematic configuration of an eNB to which technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied. An eNB830includes one or more antennas840, a base station device850, and an RRH860. The respective antennas840and the RRH860may be connected to each other via an RF cable. Also, the base station device850and the RRH860may be connected to each other by a high-speed link such as an optical fiber cable.

Each antenna840includes a single or a plurality of antenna elements (for example, a plurality of antenna elements constituting a MIMO antenna), and is used by the RRH860to transmit and receive radio signals. The eNB830may include a plurality of antennas840as illustrated inFIG. 17, and the plurality of antennas840may respectively correspond to a plurality of frequency bands used by the eNB830, for example. Note that althoughFIG. 17illustrates an example of the eNB830including a plurality of antennas840, the eNB830may also include a single antenna840.

The radio communication interface855supports a cellular communication scheme such as LTE or LTE-Advanced, and provides a radio connection to a terminal positioned inside a sector corresponding to the RRH860via the RRH860and an antenna840. Typically, the radio communication interface855may include a BB processor856and the like. The BB processor856is similar to the BB processor826described with reference toFIG. 16, except for being connected to an RF circuit864of the RRH860via the connection interface857. The radio communication interface855may also include a plurality of BB processors856as illustrated inFIG. 17, and the plurality of BB processors856may respectively correspond to a plurality of frequency bands used by the eNB830, for example. Note that althoughFIG. 17illustrates an example of the radio communication interface855including a plurality of BB processors856, the radio communication interface855may also include a single BB processor856.

The connection interface857is an interface for connecting the base station device850(radio communication interface855) to the RRH860. The connection interface857may also be a communication module for communication on the high-speed link connecting the base station device850(radio communication interface855) and the RRH860.

In addition, the RRH860is equipped with a connection interface861and a radio communication interface863.

The connection interface861is an interface for connecting the RRH860(radio communication interface863) to the base station device850. The connection interface861may also be a communication module for communication on the high-speed link.

The radio communication interface863transmits and receives a radio signal via an antenna840. Typically, the radio communication interface863may include an RF circuit864. The RF circuit864may include components such as a mixer, a filter, and an amp, and transmits or receives a radio signal via an antenna840. The radio communication interface863may also include a plurality of RF circuits864as illustrated inFIG. 17, and the plurality of RF circuits864may respectively correspond to a plurality of antenna elements, for example. Note that althoughFIG. 17illustrates an example of the radio communication interface863including a plurality of RF circuits864, the radio communication interface863may also include a single RF circuit864.

In the eNB800and the eNB830illustrated inFIGS. 16 and 17, the information providing unit251and the transmission control unit253described usingFIG. 10may be implemented in the radio communication interface825, and the radio communication interface855, and/or the radio communication interface863. Also, at least a part of these functions may be implemented in the controller821and the controller851.

<<7.2. Applications Related to Terminal Device>>

The processor901may be a CPU or system-on-a-chip (SoC), for example, and controls functions in the application layer and other layers of the smartphone900. The memory902includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs executed by the processor901as well as data. The storage903may include a storage medium such as semiconductor memory or a hard disk. The external connection interface904is an interface for connecting an externally attached device, such as a memory card or Universal Serial Bus (USB) device, to the smartphone900.

The camera906includes an image sensor such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, and generates a captured image. The sensor907may include a sensor group such as a positioning sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and an acceleration sensor, for example. The microphone908converts audio input into the smartphone900into an audio signal. The input device909includes devices such as a touch sensor that detects touches on a screen of the display device910, a keypad, a keyboard, buttons, or switches, and receives operations or information input from a user. The display device910includes a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, and displays an output image of the smartphone900. The speaker911converts an audio signal output from the smartphone900into audio.

The radio communication interface912supports a cellular communication scheme such as LTE or LTE-Advanced, and executes radio communication. Typically, the radio communication interface912may include a BB processor913, an RF circuit914, and the like. The BB processor913may conduct processes such as encoding/decoding, modulation/demodulation, and multiplexing/demultiplexing, for example, and executes various signal processing for radio communication. Meanwhile, the RF circuit914may include components such as a mixer, a filter, and an amp, and transmits or receives a radio signal via an antenna916. The radio communication interface912may also be a one-chip module integrating the BB processor913and the RF circuit914. The radio communication interface912may also include a plurality of BB processors913and a plurality of RF circuits914as illustrated inFIG. 18. Note that althoughFIG. 18illustrates an example of the radio communication interface912including a plurality of BB processors913and a plurality of RF circuits914, the radio communication interface912may also include a single BB processor913or a single RF circuit914.

Furthermore, in addition to a cellular communication scheme, the radio communication interface912may also support other types of radio communication schemes such as a short-range wireless communication scheme, a near field wireless communication scheme, or a wireless local area network (LAN) scheme. In this case, a BB processor913and an RF circuit914may be included for each radio communication scheme.

Each antenna switch915switches the destination of an antenna916among a plurality of circuits included in the radio communication interface912(for example, circuits for different radio communication schemes).

Each antenna916includes a single or a plurality of antenna elements (for example, a plurality of antenna elements constituting a MIMO antenna), and is used by the radio communication interface912to transmit and receive radio signals. The smartphone900may also include a plurality of antennas916as illustrated inFIG. 18. Note that althoughFIG. 18illustrates an example of the smartphone900including a plurality of antennas916, the smartphone900may also include a single antenna916.

Furthermore, the smartphone900may also be equipped with an antenna916for each radio communication scheme. In this case, the antenna switch915may be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone900.

The bus917interconnects the processor901, the memory902, the storage903, the external connection interface904, the camera906, the sensor907, the microphone908, the input device909, the display device910, the speaker911, the radio communication interface912, and the auxiliary controller919. The battery918supplies electric power to the respective blocks of the smartphone900illustrated inFIG. 18via power supply lines partially illustrated with dashed lines in the drawing. The auxiliary controller919causes minimal functions of the smartphone900to operate while in a sleep mode, for example.

In the smartphone900illustrated inFIG. 18, the information acquiring unit161, the signal detection unit163, the synchronization control unit165, and the transmission control unit167described with reference toFIG. 5may be implemented in the radio communication interface912. Also, at least some of these functions may also be implemented in the processor901or the auxiliary controller919.

FIG. 19is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a car navigation device920to which technology according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied. The car navigation device920is equipped with a processor921, memory922, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module924, a sensor925, a data interface926, a content player927, a storage medium interface928, an input device929, a display device930, a speaker931, a radio communication interface933, one or more antenna switches936, one or more antennas937, and a battery938.

The processor921may be a CPU or SoC, for example, and controls a car navigation function and other functions of the car navigation device920. The memory922includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs executed by the processor921as well as data.

The GPS module924measures the position of the car navigation device920(for example, the latitude, longitude, and altitude) by using GPS signals received from GPS satellites. The sensor925may include a sensor group such as a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and a barometric pressure sensor, for example. The data interface926is connected to an in-vehicle network941via a port not illustrated in the drawing, and acquires data generated on the vehicle side, such as vehicle speed data.

The content player927plays content stored on a storage medium (for example, a CD or DVD) inserted into the storage medium interface928. The input device929includes devices such as a touch sensor that detects touches on a screen of the display device930, buttons, or switches, and receives operations or information input from a user. The display device930includes a screen such as an LCD or OLED display, and displays a navigation function or an image of played-back content. The speaker931outputs audio of a navigation function or played-back content.

The radio communication interface933supports a cellular communication scheme such as LTE or LTE-Advanced, and executes radio communication. Typically, the radio communication interface933may include a BB processor934, an RF circuit935, and the like. The BB processor934may conduct processes such as encoding/decoding, modulation/demodulation, and multiplexing/demultiplexing, for example, and executes various signal processing for radio communication. Meanwhile, the RF circuit935may include components such as a mixer, a filter, and an amp, and transmits or receives a radio signal via an antenna937. The radio communication interface933may also be a one-chip module integrating the BB processor934and the RF circuit935. The radio communication interface933may also include a plurality of BB processors934and a plurality of RF circuits935as illustrated inFIG. 19. Note that althoughFIG. 19illustrates an example of the radio communication interface933including a plurality of BB processors934and a plurality of RF circuits935, the radio communication interface933may also include a single BB processor934or a single RF circuit935.

Furthermore, in addition to a cellular communication scheme, the radio communication interface933may also support other types of radio communication schemes such as a short-range wireless communication scheme, a near field wireless communication scheme, or a wireless LAN scheme. In this case, a BB processor934and an RF circuit935may be included for each radio communication scheme.

Each antenna switch936switches the destination of an antenna937among a plurality of circuits included in the radio communication interface933(for example, circuits for different radio communication schemes).

Each antenna937includes a single or a plurality of antenna elements (for example, a plurality of antenna elements constituting a MIMO antenna), and is used by the radio communication interface933to transmit and receive radio signals. The car navigation device920may also include a plurality of antennas937as illustrated inFIG. 19. Note that althoughFIG. 19illustrates an example of the car navigation device920including a plurality of antennas937, the car navigation device920may also include a single antenna937.

Furthermore, the car navigation device920may also be equipped with an antenna937for each radio communication scheme. In this case, the antenna switch936may be omitted from the configuration of the car navigation device920.

The battery938supplies electric power to the respective blocks of the car navigation device920illustrated inFIG. 19via power supply lines partially illustrated with dashed lines in the drawing. Also, the battery938stores electric power supplied from the vehicle.

In the car navigation device920illustrated inFIG. 19, the information acquiring unit161, the signal detection unit163, the synchronization control unit165, and the transmission control unit167described with reference toFIG. 5may be implemented in the radio communication interface933. Also, at least some of these functions may also be implemented in the processor921.

In addition, technology according to the present disclosure may also be realized as an in-vehicle system (or vehicle)940that includes one or more blocks of the car navigation device920discussed above, the in-vehicle network941, and a vehicle-side module942. The vehicle-side module942generates vehicle-side data such as the vehicle speed, number of engine revolutions, or malfunction information, and outputs the generated data to the in-vehicle network941.

In the above, each device and each process according to the embodiment of the present disclosure have been described, usingFIGS. 1 to 20. According to the embodiment according to the present disclosure, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication. Also, the radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station200and the radio frame used in the D2D communication include the same frame structure. Also, the timing of the synchronization signal for the D2D communication in the above same frame structure is same as the timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200in the above same frame structure.

Thereby, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is capable of being received by another terminal device100, with the same reception operation as the reception operation with respect to the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station200(the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200). Hence, another terminal device100is needless to perform different operations, when receiving the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200, and when receiving the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100. That is, the operation of the terminal device for performing the D2D communication100in which the same communication scheme as the communication scheme of the cellular communication is adopted is simplified more.

For example, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

As the first example, the transmission control unit167controls the timing to transmit the above synchronization signal for the above inter-device communication, in such a manner to set at the timing a predetermined time after the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

Thereby, the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100in the cell21and the synchronization signal for the D2D communication by the terminal device100are transmitted at different timings. As a result, for example, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100does not interfere with the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100. Hence, the possibility that the synchronization fails in the cell21is prevented from increasing.

As the second example, the transmission control unit167may control the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, in such a manner to set at the same timing as the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200.

Thereby, the synchronization signal transmitted by the base station100in the cell21and the synchronization signal for the D2D communication by the terminal device100are transmitted at the same timing. As a result, for example, the same timing as the cellular communication is used for the D2D communication as well, in the cell21and its vicinity. Hence, the control of the D2D communication by the base station200can be simplified more.

According to the first exemplary variant, the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station200is the signal corresponding to one cell ID among one or more cell IDs. On the other hand, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among one or more D2D communication IDs different from the above one or more cell IDs.

Thereby, another terminal device100, which detects the synchronization signal, can determine which synchronization signal has been detected. Hence, the other terminal device100can decide the operation after the acquisition of the synchronization.

According to the second exemplary variant, the transmission control unit167controls the transmission of the discovery signal with which the terminal device100can be discovered for the purpose of the D2D communication. Also, the above discovery signal is the signal corresponding to the above one D2D communication ID (the D2D communication ID corresponding to the synchronization signal for the D2D communication) among one or more D2D communication IDs.

Thereby, for example, the terminal device which has received the discovery signal can determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal is the same device as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. For example, this enables the terminal device which has received the discovery signal, to transmit the acknowledgement signal when the discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal, and to not transmit the acknowledgement signal when the above discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device different from the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. As a result, the waste of the radio resources can be reduced.

Also, the D2D communication ID is utilized as the synchronization group ID for identifying the synchronization group, and the terminal devices100that belong to the same synchronization group can transmit the discovery signal corresponding to the synchronization group ID. In this case, for example, according to the second exemplary variant, the terminal device which has received the discovery signal can determine whether the terminal device which has transmitted the discovery signal belongs to the same synchronization group as the terminal device which has transmitted the synchronization signal. For example, this enables the terminal device which has received the discovery signal, to transmit the acknowledgement signal when the discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device that belongs to the same synchronization group, and to not transmit the acknowledgement signal when the above discovery signal is transmitted by the terminal device that belongs to another synchronization group. As a result, the waste of the radio resources can be reduced.

According to the third exemplary variant, the synchronization signal for the D2D communication transmitted by the terminal device100is the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs different from the above one or more cell IDs. Then, the transmission control unit167changes the synchronization signal for the D2D communication, from the signal corresponding to one D2D communication ID among a plurality of D2D communication IDs, to the signal corresponding to another D2D communication ID among the above plurality of D2D communication IDs, in response to the notification from another terminal device100.

Thereby, the synchronization signal can be changed, when the same synchronization signal is transmitted by two or more terminal devices100, and another terminal device100becomes unable to acquire synchronization actually, for example. Hence, the above other terminal device100is prevented from being unable to acquire synchronization continually. Also, for example, the synchronization signal is changed only when necessary, and therefore a situation in which frequent reacquisition of the synchronization is necessary is prevented.

For example, although an example in which the communication system is compliant with LTE, LTE-Advanced, or equivalent communication schemes has been described in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. For example, the communication system may be a system compliant with other communication standards.

Also, although an example in which the D2D communication is performed in OFDM has been described in the above embodiment, the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. For example, instead of the D2D communication in OFDM, the D2D communication may be performed in SC-FDMA. Also, when another multiplexing scheme is adopted for the wireless communication between the base station and the terminal device, the D2D communication may be performed by the other multiplexing scheme.

Also, the processing steps in each process in this specification are not strictly limited to being executed in a time series following the sequence described in a sequence diagram or a flowchart. For example, the processing steps in each process may be executed in a sequence that differs from a sequence described herein as a flowchart, and furthermore may be executed in parallel.

Also, a computer program for causing hardware, such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, equipped in the terminal device to provide the function equivalent to each configuration of the above terminal device can be created. Also, a storage medium storing the computer program may be provided. Also, an information processing apparatus (for example, a processing circuit, a chip) including a memory (for example, a ROM and a RAM) storing the computer program and a processor (for example, a CPU) for executing the computer program may be provided.

Also, the effects described in the present specification are only descriptive or illustrative, and is not limitative. That is, the technology according to the present disclosure can achieve another effect that is obvious for a skilled person from the description of the present specification, in addition to the above effect or instead of the above effect.

A terminal device including:

a detection unit configured to detect a synchronization signal for wireless communication with a base station; and

a control unit configured to control transmission of a synchronization signal for inter-device communication,

wherein a radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure, and

a timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

The terminal device according to (1), wherein

the control unit controls a timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by detection of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station.

The terminal device according to (2), wherein

the control unit controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication to be set at a timing a predetermined time after the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection.

The terminal device according to (3), wherein

the radio frame includes a plurality of subframes, and

the predetermined time is a time corresponding to a predetermined number of the subframes.

The terminal device according to (2), wherein

the control unit controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication to be set at a same timing as the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection.

The terminal device according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein

the control unit controls the timing to transmit the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, on the basis of the timing of the synchronization signal obtained by the detection, when a position condition of the terminal device is satisfied.

The terminal device according to (6), wherein

the position condition includes a condition that the terminal device is positioned at a cell edge of a cell formed by the base station.

The terminal device according to (7), wherein

the position condition includes a condition that the terminal device is not positioned at a vicinity of an adjacent cell of the cell.

The terminal device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein

the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station is a signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more identifiers for identifying a cell formed by the base station, and

the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication is a signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more other identifiers that are different from the one or more identifiers.

The terminal device according to (9), wherein

the control unit controls transmission of a discovery signal with which the terminal device can be discovered for the inter-device communication, and

the discovery signal is a signal corresponding to the one identifier among the one or more other identifiers.

The terminal device according to (10), wherein

the discovery signal includes the one identifier among the one or more other identifiers.

The terminal device according to (10), wherein

the discovery signal is one of one or more signals corresponding to the one identifier among the one or more other identifiers.

The terminal device according to any one of (9) to (12), wherein

the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication is a signal corresponding to one identifier among a plurality of other identifiers that are different from the one or more identifiers, and

the control unit changes the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, from a signal corresponding to one identifier among the plurality of other identifiers, to a signal corresponding to another identifier among the plurality of other identifiers, in response to a notification from another terminal device.

The terminal device according to any one of (9) to (12), wherein

the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication is a signal corresponding to one identifier among a plurality of other identifiers that are different from the one or more identifiers, and

the control unit periodically changes the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, from a signal corresponding to one identifier among the plurality of other identifiers, to a signal corresponding to another identifier among the plurality of other identifiers.

An information processing apparatus including:

one or more processors; and

a memory configured to store a program executed by the one or more processors,

wherein the program is a program for executing

detecting a synchronization signal for wireless communication with a base station, and

controlling transmission of a synchronization signal for inter-device communication, and

wherein a radio frame used in the wireless communication with the base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure, and

a timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

A terminal device including:

a detection unit configured to detect a synchronization signal for inter-device communication transmitted by another terminal device; and

a control unit configured to acquire synchronization for the inter-device communication, on the basis of a detection result of the synchronization signal,

wherein a radio frame used in wireless communication with a base station and a radio frame used in the inter-device communication have a same frame structure, and

a timing of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in the same frame structure is same as a timing of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station in the same frame structure.

The terminal device according to (16), wherein

the detection unit detects the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station, and

the control unit acquires the synchronization for the inter-device communication, on the basis of a detection result of the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station, when the terminal device is positioned in a cell formed by the base station, and acquires the synchronization for the inter-device communication, on the basis of a detection result of the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, when the terminal device is not positioned in the cell.

The terminal device according to (16) or (17), wherein

the synchronization signal for the wireless communication with the base station is a signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more identifiers for identifying a cell formed by the base station, and

the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication is a signal corresponding to one identifier among one or more other identifiers that are different from the one or more identifiers.

The terminal device according to (18), wherein

the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication is a signal corresponding to one identifier among a plurality of other identifiers that are different from the one or more identifiers, and

the terminal device further includes an acquisition unit that acquires priority information indicating a priority of detection among signals corresponding to the plurality of other identifiers, and

the detection unit detects the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication in accordance with the priority.

The terminal device according to (19), wherein

the acquisition unit acquires first priority information indicating the priority and second priority information indicating the priority, and

each of the first priority information and the second priority information includes information indicating an acquisition time or an acquisition site when provided by the base station, and

the acquisition unit selects one of the first priority information and the second priority information, on the basis of information of the acquisition time or the acquisition site included in the first priority information and the second priority information, and

the detection unit detects the synchronization signal for the inter-device communication, in accordance with the priority indicated by the one of the first priority information and the second priority information.

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