Carrier Aggregation Mode Selection in Cellular Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current implementations of inter-eNB carrier aggregation in cellular networks face challenges in determining when to implement it, which technique to use, and how to manage resources between base stations, affecting efficiency, power consumption, and quality of service.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamically selecting the mode of service delivery using carrier aggregation across first and second base stations based on parameters such as QoS, latency, mobility, and network architecture, involving a decision process at the Master eNB that considers multiple factors to optimize performance and resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If inter-eNB carrier aggregation is implemented to increase data rate capacity, then the data throughput to mobile terminals is improved, but the device complexity and resource management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting carrier aggregation configuration based on measured radio conditions, mobility state, and service requirements. The network entity modifies aggregation parameters (number of carriers, carrier frequencies, resource allocation) in response to changing system parameters, thereby optimizing throughput while managing complexity through adaptive rather than static configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling flexible, condition-based activation and deactivation of carrier aggregation modes. The system transitions between different aggregation states (e.g., single carrier, dual carrier, intra-eNB, inter-eNB aggregation) based on real-time conditions, allowing the network to scale resource management complexity only when and where throughput benefits justify the additional complexity
2Reliability
If carrier aggregation is activated to improve quality of service, then the service delivery performance is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively activating carrier aggregation only for specific carriers, specific time periods, and specific service types that require enhanced QoS. Rather than maintaining full carrier aggregation continuously, the system applies aggregation partially - only when and where QoS requirements demand it - thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining service quality where critical
Solution Approach 2:
The network entity dynamically changes aggregation parameters based on QoS requirements and mobile terminal state, including adjusting the number of aggregated carriers, modulation schemes, and resource allocation ratios. This adaptive parameter adjustment ensures that power consumption is optimized by using aggregation only at the level necessary to meet QoS targets
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic mode selection is implemented to optimize performance, then the adaptability to network conditions is improved, but the decision-making complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the carrier aggregation decision-making process into distinct, manageable components: radio condition assessment, mobility state determination, service type identification, and aggregation mode selection. Each component handles a specific aspect of the decision, reducing overall complexity through functional segmentation rather than requiring a single complex decision engine
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the network entity (eNB) - that mediates between mobile terminal capabilities and network resource availability to determine optimal aggregation modes. This intermediary consolidates the complexity of decision-making at the network side, where more computational resources are available, while keeping the mobile terminal's role simpler (primarily measurement and reporting)
4Productivity
If inter-eNB carrier aggregation is used to access more spectrum, then the data rate capacity is improved, but the signalling overhead and coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and separates the signalling functions for inter-eNB carrier aggregation from the mobile terminal, placing them primarily at the network entities (serving eNB and target eNB). By taking out the complex inter-eNB coordination signalling from the UE, the patent reduces the signalling overhead that the terminal must handle while still enabling high data rate capacity through inter-eNB aggregation
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for selecting a mode of service delivery to a mobile terminal using carrier aggregation across first and second base stations of a cellular network is provided. The selection being based on one or more of: a parameter of the service; and a parameter of the network architecture.