Base Station Self-Optimisation via Backhaul Reliability Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Self-Organising Network (SON) algorithms in cellular radio networks do not effectively account for backhaul interface performance, leading to unnecessary adjustments of Radio Access Network (RAN) parameters and potential network congestion, as they fail to distinguish between RAN and backhaul-related issues, especially in cases of intermittent backhaul degradation.
Innovation Solution
A method for self-optimisation of base stations within cellular radio networks that involves detecting performance degradation, identifying the reliability of backhaul interfaces, and implementing SON algorithms based on this information to avoid unnecessary adjustments of RAN parameters, thereby prioritising corrective measures for backhaul issues before optimising RAN parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SON algorithms adjust RAN parameters to improve handover performance, then handover robustness is improved, but unnecessary adjustments are made when backhaul issues are the actual cause, leading to increased network congestion and processing overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of backhaul interface performance status before triggering SON parameter adjustments. By checking backhaul reliability indicators in advance, the system prevents unnecessary RAN parameter modifications when backhaul issues are the root cause, thereby reducing network processing overhead while maintaining handover robustness when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary assessment layer that evaluates whether performance degradation stems from backhaul or RAN issues before activating SON algorithms. This intermediary check acts as a gatekeeper, directing optimization efforts only when RAN parameter adjustments are appropriate, thus avoiding unnecessary processing while preserving handover reliability
2Productivity
If SON algorithms continuously monitor and adjust parameters to improve KPIs, then network performance is improved, but the system cannot distinguish between RAN and backhaul causes, leading to ineffective optimisation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the performance degradation analysis into distinct causes: backhaul-related issues versus RAN parameter issues. By separating these causes and providing specific detection mechanisms for backhaul interface status, the system achieves precise cause identification, enabling targeted optimisation actions that improve network performance without unnecessary adjustments
3Reliability
If manual checking of KPIs and optimisation activities is performed, then network parameters can be optimised, but the process is time-consuming and cannot address intermittent backhaul degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated backhaul interface monitoring and intelligent differentiation between backhaul and RAN issues. The base station autonomously detects performance degradation, identifies the root cause by examining backhaul reliability indicators, and triggers appropriate actions without manual intervention, thereby maintaining optimisation effectiveness while eliminating time delays
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors backhaul interface performance and uses this information to guide optimisation decisions. By feeding back real-time backhaul status to the decision-making process, the system can rapidly respond to both backhaul and RAN issues, improving response time while maintaining optimisation effectiveness through accurate cause identification
Data Source
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AI summary
Self-optimisation for a base station within a cellular radio network is provided. The base station has a first communication interface for providing a service to mobile terminals and a second communication interface for communication with other network entities of the cellular radio network. A degradation in performance of the service provided over the first communication interface is detected. A reliability level for the second communication interface is identified and a Self-Organising Network (SON) algorithm is implemented in dependence on the identified reliability level and in response to the detection of degradation.