Wireless Coverage Hole Detection via Handover Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate for identifying and addressing geographic areas with poor or non-existent network coverage in wireless communication systems, such as LTE and 5G networks, as they are either incomplete, labor-intensive, or unable to detect coverage gaps effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that determine the distance between base stations and points of signal loss/acquisition using handover indications and geolocation feedback to estimate network coverage areas, allowing network operators to proactively address service gaps by combining network-based and UE-based coverage detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual drive tests are used to identify coverage holes, then coverage areas can be analyzed, but the process is labor-intensive, slow, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The network enables self-detection of coverage holes by allowing UEs to autonomously measure signal quality and report coverage issues without manual intervention. The UE independently performs RLF (Radio Link Failure) measurements and sends reports to the network, making the detection process self-serve rather than requiring external testing vehicles
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where UEs report RLF events and coverage measurements to the network in real-time. This feedback mechanism enables the network to dynamically identify and respond to coverage holes, transforming static manual testing into dynamic automated monitoring
2Loss of information
If customer feedback is collected to identify poor coverage areas, then service dissatisfaction can be detected, but the feedback is received late and reflects existing dissatisfaction rather than enabling proactive optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The network proactively monitors coverage by continuously collecting RLF measurement data from UEs before customers experience significant service degradation. This preliminary detection allows the network to identify coverage holes early and take corrective action before customers file complaints or provide negative feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes real-time feedback channels where UEs continuously report signal quality and RLF events to the network. This continuous feedback loop enables the network to detect coverage issues immediately rather than waiting for delayed customer complaints, transforming reactive service recovery into proactive network optimization
3Measurement precision
If OTDOA techniques are used for UE location positioning, then position data can be obtained, but coverage gaps cannot be identified since OTDOA does not function within single cell coverage areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces RLF (Radio Link Failure) events as an intermediary mechanism to detect coverage holes. Instead of relying solely on OTDOA positioning which requires multiple cells, the system uses RLF events that occur when UEs lose connection in coverage gaps, thereby indirectly identifying areas where OTDOA would fail to function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of signal loss (RLF events) into a beneficial detection mechanism. Rather than treating RLF as merely a service degradation event, the system leverages RLF occurrences as indicators of coverage holes, transforming a negative phenomenon into a useful diagnostic tool for identifying areas where OTDOA positioning cannot operate
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus and method that may determine, at a network entity, a first distance between a first base station and a second base station based on a handover indication received from user equipment. The method may further determine, by the network entity, a second distance between a point of signal loss and a point of signal acquisition of user equipment. The method may further estimate, by the network entity, one or more network coverage areas based upon the first distance and the second distance