5G Node Identification via SS/PBCH Time Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G wireless communication networks, identifying sources of interference, particularly BS-to-BS interference caused by atmospheric conditions, is challenging due to limited physical cell IDs and the need to differentiate between distant cells sharing the same ID, especially in large networks with thousands of nodes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for identifying interfering network nodes by determining an identity associated with a second network node based on received SS/PBCH block transmissions and time shifts relative to a slot structure, using processing and radio circuitry, and utilizing reference signaling to supplement physical cell ID information, allowing for identification of up to 100,000 different identities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If physical cell ID is used to identify network nodes, then identification is simple, but identification becomes ambiguous in large networks with thousands of nodes where IDs are reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional physical cell ID identification to two-dimensional identification by combining physical cell ID with time shift information. The time shift represents the distance between network nodes, adding a spatial dimension to the identification process. This allows differentiation between nodes with identical physical cell IDs by their relative positions, resolving the ambiguity in large networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces time shift information as an intermediary parameter to resolve identification conflicts. Instead of directly relying on physical cell ID alone, the system uses time shift as a mediating factor that provides additional discrimination capability. The combination of physical cell ID and time shift creates a more precise identification mechanism without requiring completely new signaling protocols.
2Measurement precision
If time shift information is added to identify network nodes, then identification accuracy improves, but signaling overhead and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having network nodes autonomously determine time shift information based on their own transmissions and received signals. Each node calculates its time shift relative to others using its existing SS/PBCH block transmissions, eliminating the need for centralized time shift assignment or additional signaling overhead for time shift information exchange.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation by encoding time shift information in a compact form that can be efficiently processed. Instead of transmitting full timing details, the system uses condensed time shift parameters that reduce processing complexity while maintaining identification accuracy. This parameter optimization balances precision requirements with computational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method of operating a network node in a radio access network. The method includes determining an identity associated to a second network node based on received SS/PBCH block transmission received from the second network node and based on a determined time shift of the SS/PBCH block transmission relative to a slot structure. The disclosure also pertains to related devices and methods.