Beam Candidate Selection Balancing Signal Quality and Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dynamic elevation beamforming in wireless communication networks can increase signal quality for one UE but lower it in neighboring cells due to interference, posing a challenge in maximizing overall network performance.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting beam candidates in network nodes and UEs that considers both signal quality and interference factors, allowing for the selection of beams that provide satisfactory signal quality while minimizing interference to neighboring cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dynamic elevation beamforming is used to direct transmitted energy towards a specific UE, then signal quality for that UE is improved, but signal quality in neighboring cells deteriorates due to increased interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection criteria for beam candidates by introducing a dual-parameter evaluation system. Instead of selecting beams solely based on signal quality metrics, the system evaluates both signal quality and interference characteristics, dynamically adjusting the selection parameters to balance local performance with network-wide interference management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network node evaluates the interference impact of each beam candidate on neighboring cells. This feedback information about interference characteristics is used to adjust the beam selection process, allowing the system to adaptively choose beams that maintain signal quality while minimizing harmful interference to other cells
2Power
If beamforming is used to focus transmitted power in a specific direction, then received power at the target UE increases, but interference to other UEs in neighboring cells increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the beam selection parameters by incorporating interference metrics alongside power metrics. The network node evaluates beam candidates based on a composite assessment that includes both the received power benefit and the interference cost, changing the selection parameters to optimize the trade-off between these two opposing factors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful interference effect into a useful selection criterion. By measuring and evaluating the interference characteristics of each beam candidate, the system uses what would otherwise be a purely negative effect as a discriminative factor in the selection process, transforming interference from an uncontrollable side effect into a manageable selection parameter
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances overall signal quality in the wireless communication network by optimizing beam selection to balance signal quality and interference, thereby increasing network performance without compromising signal strength for UEs in neighboring cells.
Implementation Method 1
Beamforming in this configuration is achieved using different phases and amplitudes for the different subelements of the active antenna such that at certain angles, relative the active antenna, the different signals experience constructive interference whereas at other angles they experience destructive interference.
Data Source
AI summary
A method in a network node for selecting a beam candidate in a wireless communication network, including acquiring information including information indicative of signal qualities for multiple beam candidates; assigning to each of the multiple beam candidates a factor indicating signal interference generated by the corresponding beam candidate and selecting a beam candidate taking into account at least the associated signal quality and the factor assigned to the selected beam candidate.