Composite Channel Numbering for Wireless Signaling Overhead Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face high signaling overhead due to the need to signal unique Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Numbers (ARFCN) for both uplink and downlink frequencies, especially in scenarios where multiple frequency channels are required for unicast and broadcast services, leading to inefficient frequency management.
Innovation Solution
A composite channel numbering scheme is introduced, where a global number is assigned to a primary frequency band and an in-band number to a secondary frequency, reducing the overall signaling overhead by using fewer bits to convey the necessary frequency information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If unique ARFCN is assigned to each frequency channel for both uplink and downlink, then frequency channel identification is precise and unambiguous, but signaling overhead increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency channel identification into two parts: a first number indicating the frequency band and a second number indicating the specific frequency within that band. This segmentation allows the system to transmit only the necessary precision level for each scenario, reducing overall signaling overhead while maintaining identification accuracy when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different identification precision levels locally based on the specific communication scenario. For intra-band frequency changes, only the second number (specific frequency) is signaled. For inter-band changes, both numbers are used. This local adaptation of precision matches the actual information needs of different operational contexts.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequency channels are signaled for unicast and broadcast services, then service reception capability is enhanced, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments frequency channel identification into band-level and frequency-level components. This allows the system to efficiently signal multiple frequency channels for different services by transmitting only the frequency-specific second numbers when the band context is already established, thereby supporting multi-service reception while minimizing redundant signaling.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-part numbering scheme serves multiple functions: it identifies single frequency channels, identifies multiple frequency channels for different services, and adapts to different duplex modes (FDD/TDD). This multi-functionality enables the system to handle diverse service requirements without requiring separate signaling mechanisms for each scenario.
3Measurement precision
If full ARFCN is transmitted for handover commands, then frequency switching accuracy is ensured, but transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adapting the precision of frequency identification to the specific handover scenario. When handover occurs within the same frequency band, only the second number (specific frequency) is transmitted, providing sufficient accuracy for the switch while optimizing transmission efficiency. Full precision is reserved for inter-band handovers where it is actually needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by transmitting only the necessary portion of the frequency identification information. Instead of always transmitting the complete ARFCN, the system transmits only the relevant second number when the band context is already known, providing just enough information for accurate frequency switching without the overhead of complete identification.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and arrangements where each frequency channel is assigned a primary (global) number and a secondary (in-band) number. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention the primary number for one frequency channel (e.g. unicast downlink channel) and one or more secondary channel numbers to account for the corresponding unicast uplink and/or for one or more MBSFN channels are signalled. The primary (global) number indicates the band and frequency channel number while the secondary (in-band) number indicates the frequency channel within the relevant frequency band.