Cellular Network Resource Allocation for Self-Backhaul Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
In cellular networks, especially in future 5G mobile networks, the efficient allocation of time-frequency resources between macro and small cell base stations for self-backhauling is challenging due to interference and propagation issues, particularly in cm-wave and mm-wave bands, where traditional wired connectivity is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a large cell base station provides target allocation proportions for time-frequency resources to both user equipment and backhaul links, dynamically allocating these resources based on current and target proportions to optimize resource usage, and notifies small cell base stations to schedule transmissions accordingly, separating control and data channels to manage half-duplex and full-duplex operations effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connectivity (optical fibre) is used for backhaul links between small and macro cells, then reliability and bandwidth are improved, but cost and deployment complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical wired connectivity system (optical fibre backhaul) with a wireless radio access network system. Small cells use wireless backhaul links through the RAN to connect to macro cells, eliminating the need for expensive physical fibre infrastructure while maintaining network connectivity and enabling rapid deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the radio access network serve dual functions: both providing access links for user equipment and providing backhaul links for small cell connectivity. The same wireless spectrum and RAN infrastructure are used for both access and backhaul purposes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated fibre infrastructure.
2Productivity
If the same radio spectrum is shared between access and backhaul links, then cost efficiency and spectral utilization are improved, but interference between links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the time-frequency resources into distinct portions for access links and backhaul links. By allocating specific time slots and frequency bands to different functions, the system enables spectrum sharing while reducing interference through resource partitioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic time-division multiplexing where access and backhaul transmissions occur in alternating time slots. This periodic scheduling allows the same spectrum to be reused for different purposes at different times, improving spectral efficiency while preventing simultaneous interference.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and Systems are disclosed for allocating a time-frequency resource of a large cell base station either to a selected first user equipment associated with the base station, or to a selected self-backhaul link associated with a small cell within the coverage area of the large cell base station. In embodiments, data is provided representing target allocation proportions of the time-frequency resource, for each of the first user equipment(s) and the one or more backhaul link(s). Allocations are made, for each of a series of time units or intervals, either to a selected first user equipment or backhaul link based on the target data.