Almost Blank Subframe Configuration via Inter-Cell Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heterogeneous networks face challenges in determining the optimal configuration of almost blank subframes to mitigate interference between macrocells and small cells, particularly in scenarios where picocells and femtocells operate on the same frequency channel, with no established mechanism to assist macrocells or femtocells in determining the necessary pattern and number of almost blank subframes.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is introduced where an eNodeB of a first cell sends a request signaling to an eNodeB of a second cell to inform of the requirement for almost blank subframes, allowing the second cell to determine and send the pattern of almost blank subframes as a bitmap, enabling efficient resource utilization and interference reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If almost blank subframes are configured to reduce interference in heterogeneous networks, then interference between macrocells and small cells is reduced, but the complexity of determining the optimal pattern and number of ABSs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated ABS configuration where the eNodeB autonomously determines the pattern and number of almost blank subframes based on traffic load and user equipment distribution, eliminating the need for manual configuration while optimizing interference reduction
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements feedback mechanisms where the eNodeB continuously monitors traffic load and user equipment distribution, then adjusts the ABS pattern dynamically based on this feedback information to maintain optimal interference coordination under varying network conditions
2Reliability
If the number of almost blank subframes is increased to protect edge users in picocell coverage, then user experience at cell edge is improved, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by making the ABS configuration flexible and adaptable rather than static. The eNodeB adjusts the pattern and number of almost blank subframes dynamically based on real-time traffic load and user equipment distribution, allowing the system to optimize between user experience and resource utilization under different conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes by modifying the ABS configuration parameters (pattern and number) based on monitored network conditions. When traffic load or user distribution changes, the eNodeB adjusts these parameters to maintain optimal performance, balancing protection for edge users with overall resource efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the invention provides a mechanism to assist the eNodeB of the second cell, for example macrocell eNodeB or femtocell eNodeB to determine the configuration of ABSs. To be specific, the eNodeB of the first cell sends a request signaling to the eNodeB of the second cell to inform of the requirement for ABSs. The eNodeB of the second cell receives the request signaling from the eNodeB of the first cell, and then it determines the pattern of ABSs and sends the pattern of ABSs in the form of bitmap through a signaling to the eNodeB of the first cell. As the requirement for ABSs is determined by the eNodeB of the first cell on the basis of the number of the UEs and/or the traffic load of the UEs which are near the edge of coverage area of the picocell, it can help the eNodeB of the second cell to determine the configuration of ABSs, i.e. the pattern of ABSs, so that the efficient resource utilization is achieved.