3GPP Spectrum Monitoring for Shared Band Sensing Without Whisper Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently utilizing low and mid-frequency spectrum due to limited availability and the need for dedicated Environmental Sensing Capability (ESC) networks, which create 'whisper zones' that restrict spectrum use and require costly infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
Integrating spectrum sensing into the 3GPP network to monitor and manage shared spectrum usage by non-3GPP radio technology devices, eliminating the need for dedicated ESC networks and whisper zones, and enabling more efficient spectrum utilization through 3GPP device coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated ESC networks are deployed to monitor shared spectrum, then spectrum monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines spectrum sensing functionality with existing 3GPP network infrastructure (gNodeBs and UEs) rather than deploying separate dedicated ESC networks. The gNodeB performs spectrum sensing using its existing receive chains and processing capabilities, while UEs contribute through measurement reports, merging monitoring functions into the existing network architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables existing 3GPP network elements (gNodeB and UE) to perform multiple functions: they continue to provide standard communication services while simultaneously conducting spectrum sensing and monitoring for shared spectrum resources. This eliminates the need for dedicated ESC infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated ESC networks with whisper zones are established, then spectrum sensing accuracy is improved, but spectrum availability is reduced due to restricted use areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectrum monitoring function across multiple distributed nodes (gNodeBs and UEs) rather than relying on a centralized ESC network with exclusive zones. Each node performs local sensing and reporting, enabling monitoring throughout the entire service area without creating whisper zones that restrict spectrum access.
3Ease of manufacture
If 3GPP devices are integrated for spectrum monitoring, then infrastructure costs are reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where UEs report their spectrum measurements to the gNodeB, which then aggregates and processes this information. The gNodeB uses the feedback from multiple UEs to maintain accurate spectrum awareness while avoiding the need for expensive dedicated ESC infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) user equipment (UE) includes a wireless transceiver and a processor. The processor is configured to receive, via the wireless transceiver, a measurement configuration including a measurement object and a reporting configuration. The measurement object identifies at least one shared spectrum resource. The processor is also configured to monitor the at least one shared spectrum resource, via the wireless transceiver, for use by non-3GPP radio technology devices; and transmit, in accord with the reporting configuration and via the wireless transceiver, a report on the use of the at least one shared spectrum resource by non-3GPP radio technology devices.