Carrier Frequency Assignment via Forward-Link Capacity Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless communication systems face inefficiencies in capacity utilization due to unbalanced communication loads across carrier frequencies, as existing methods primarily focus on the number of wireless communication devices (WCDs) rather than considering other capacity factors like forward-link capacity.
Innovation Solution
The Radio Access Network (RAN) assigns WCDs to carrier frequencies based on a combination of initial forward-link capacity factors, including power and data rate, using probe messages to estimate link quality and adjust initial capacity settings dynamically, while recording historical data to improve accuracy and balance capacity utilization across frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If WCDs are assigned to carrier frequencies based on the number of WCDs per frequency, then the distribution of devices across frequencies is balanced, but the utilization of forward-link capacity (power and data rate) is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the assignment parameters from simple device count to multiple forward-link capacity factors including power, data rate, and link quality metrics. The RAN now considers initial forward-link capacity factors and adjusts assignments based on these parameters, transforming the assignment criterion from a single quantitative measure to a multi-dimensional capacity assessment that directly optimizes resource utilization efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the RAN receives probe messages from WCDs, estimates forward-link capacity factors based on link quality measurements, and uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust carrier frequency assignments. This closed-loop feedback ensures that assignments are continuously optimized based on actual capacity conditions rather than static device counts
2Quantity of substance
If multiple carrier frequencies are used to support more WCDs, then the system capacity increases, but the load balancing across frequencies becomes unbalanced when using simple counting methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the load balancing approach by changing from counting WCD quantities to balancing forward-link capacity factors. Each carrier frequency's load is now measured in terms of power utilization, data rate allocation, and link quality metrics, allowing for more accurate and reliable load distribution that reflects actual resource consumption patterns across multiple frequencies
3Measurement precision
If the RAN dynamically adjusts initial forward-link capacity settings based on probe messages, then the capacity assignment accuracy improves, but the signaling overhead and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a practical balance by using probe messages for capacity estimation without requiring exhaustive measurements. The RAN determines initial forward-link capacity factors based on probe message analysis and link quality measurements, applying partial action (sufficient but not excessive measurement) to achieve acceptable accuracy while controlling processing complexity. The system processes only the necessary capacity factors needed for assignment decisions
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for assigning a wireless communication device to a carrier frequency are presented. In an exemplary embodiment, a radio access network (RAN) radiates to define one or more wireless coverage areas using at least two different carrier frequencies. A given wireless communication device (WCD) seeks to engage in a call, and accordingly transmits a probe message to the RAN. In response to receiving the probe message, and based at least on information associated with the probe message, the RAN determines an initial carrier frequency assignment for the given WCD. Preferably, this initial carrier frequency assignment is performed to balance load across at least some of the at least two different carrier frequencies. The RAN then transmits an indication of the carrier frequency assignment to the given WCD. The given WCD may then tune to the assigned carrier frequency and conduct communications using the assigned carrier frequency.