BTS Head End Combining Signals for Licensed-Assisted Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing base transceiver stations (BTS) do not support licensed-assisted access (LAA) to unlicensed spectra, limiting the provision of high-speed data communication services, especially in shadow zones.
Innovation Solution
A BTS apparatus is designed with a head end and remote portion that perform level monitoring and gain control for multiple bands and carriers, combining signals for LAA, and include specific interfaces and amplification units to support LAA services by separating and adjusting signals in both downlink and uplink paths, enabling effective LAA service delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing BTS apparatus are used, then device complexity is maintained at current levels, but LAA service capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The BTS apparatus is segmented into a head end unit and remote units. The head end performs signal combining and LAA processing, while remote units handle radio frequency operations. This segmentation allows LAA functionality to be added at the head end without redesigning the entire BTS system, thus improving adaptability while managing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The head end combiner is designed to handle both traditional licensed spectrum signals and LAA unlicensed spectrum signals through a single interface. The device performs multiple functions including signal combining, level monitoring, gain control, and LAA signal processing, allowing existing BTS infrastructure to support LAA services without requiring completely separate dedicated equipment.
2Area of stationary object
If LAA support is added to BTS apparatus, then service coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head end combiner acts as an intermediary between the licensed spectrum BTS signals and the unlicensed spectrum LAA signals. It performs level monitoring and gain control to properly combine these signals before transmission. This intermediary approach enables extended service coverage through LAA without requiring complex integration throughout the entire BTS architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If signal combining for multiple carriers is performed, then service capability is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head end combiner merges multiple carrier signals (both licensed and unlicensed spectrum) into a single combined signal for transmission through the distributed antenna system. By consolidating multiple signal processing functions into this single combining unit, the system achieves multi-carrier service capability while centralizing complexity in one location rather than distributing it throughout the entire BTS architecture.
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
The BTS apparatus improves service coverage by supporting LAA services in both licensed and unlicensed spectra, addressing shadow zone issues and expanding service capabilities with minimal addition to existing distributed antenna systems.
Implementation Method 1
configured to perform electric to optic conversion and optic distribution and transmit an obtained signal to the remote portion through an optic line in downlink, and also configured to perform optic to electric conversion on an optic signal transmitted from the remote portion through the optic line
Implementation Method 2
configured to perform electric to optic conversion and optic distribution and transmit an obtained signal to the remote portion through an optic line in downlink, and also configured to perform optic to electric conversion on an optic signal transmitted from the remote portion through the optic line
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a base transceiver station (BTS) apparatus that enables a licensed-assisted access (LAA) service in a licensed band and an unlicensed band. The BTS apparatus includes a head end connected to a BTS for each of multiple bands and carriers through a radio frequency (RF) line and a remote portion connected to one of optic lines that are optically expanded from the head end.