Beam Load Balancing in 5G Base Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
In LTE and 5G networks, traditional cell-based load balancing is insufficient when beam loads become high, as overall cell load may not trigger load balancing, leading to an urgent need for beam-based load balancing to maintain user experience and radio resource utilization.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for beam-based load balancing, where a base station receives and transmits beam load information between cells, allowing for the selection of a target cell and beam for handover to redistribute terminal loads and reduce beam load, using an Xn or X2 interface for communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cell-based load balancing is used, then overall cell load is balanced, but beam-level load imbalance cannot be detected and resolved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the load balancing mechanism from cell-level to beam-level. Instead of treating the entire cell as a single unit, the system divides the cell into multiple beams and independently measures and balances the load on each beam. This is achieved by introducing beam-specific load information interaction between gNBs, allowing precise identification and handling of beam-level load imbalances without requiring complete redesign of the overall load balancing framework.
2Productivity
If beam-based load balancing is implemented, then beam load is reduced, but signaling overhead between base stations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively exchanging beam load information only when necessary. Instead of continuously transmitting all beam load data, the system triggers beam load information interaction only when beam-level load balancing is required. The gNB selectively sends beam load information for specific beams that need balancing, rather than all beams, thereby reducing unnecessary signaling overhead while still achieving effective load balancing where needed.
3Measurement precision
If all beam load information is exchanged, then accurate load balancing is achieved, but network signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making beam load information exchange selective rather than universal. Each gNB evaluates its own beam load conditions and determines which specific beams require load balancing. Only the load information for those particular beams is exchanged with neighboring gNBs, rather than exchanging information for all beams. This localized approach maintains measurement precision for beams that need balancing while minimizing overall signaling overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a load balancing method and device. The load balancing method comprises: a first base station to which a first cell belongs receiving beam load information, which is sent by a second base station to which a second cell belongs, of the second cell.