D2D Capability Signaling for Wireless Resource Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face challenges in signaling device-to-device (D2D) proximity service communication capabilities, leading to unavailable resources for non-D2D communications, as existing protocols do not effectively manage the impact of D2D operations on multiple-access systems.

Innovation Solution

The system identifies frequency bands associated with D2D proximity service communications, determines a proximity service record for these bands, and conveys information about reduced non-D2D communication capabilities to the serving cell, allowing for dynamic configuration adjustments during D2D operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If D2D proximity service communications are activated, then direct wireless communication between UEs is enabled, but resources for non-D2D communications become unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D communication capabilityVSAvoidavailable resources for non-D2D communications
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic capability signaling that allows the UE to adapt its communication mode based on operational needs. The UE can signal its D2D capability status to the network, enabling dynamic switching between D2D and non-D2D communication modes. This dynamic approach allows resources to be reallocated based on current communication requirements, resolving the contradiction between enabling D2D functionality and maintaining resources for traditional communications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of capability signaling by introducing new information elements that indicate D2D proximity service capabilities and their impact on non-D2D communications. By modifying the capability signaling parameters to include D2D status information, the system can track and manage resource allocation dynamically, allowing the network to adjust resource distribution based on the UE's current communication mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If existing protocols are used for D2D operations, then implementation is straightforward, but signaling of D2D capabilities and impact on non-D2D communications is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol implementation simplicityVSAvoidD2D capability signaling information
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the UE signal its D2D capability status to the network before engaging in D2D communications. This advance signaling allows the network to be aware of the UE's capability state and adjust resource allocation proactively. The capability information is signaled in advance through modified protocol messages, preventing information loss and enabling the network to make informed scheduling decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of modified capability signaling messages that carry D2D proximity service capability information. These intermediary messages act as a bridge between the UE's internal capability state and the network's resource management decisions. By using standardized protocol extensions as intermediaries, the patent maintains implementation simplicity while enabling comprehensive capability signaling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If frequency bands are shared between D2D and non-D2D communications, then spectrum efficiency is improved, but communication capability conflicts occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum utilization efficiencyVSAvoidcommunication capability stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE continuously signals its D2D capability status and operational state to the network. This feedback loop allows the network to monitor the UE's communication mode and adjust resource allocation accordingly. When D2D communications are active, the network receives feedback about the reduced capability for non-D2D communications and can modify scheduling decisions to maintain reliable service for both communication types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic resource allocation by allowing the UE to signal changes in its communication capability in real-time. When the UE transitions between D2D and non-D2D modes, or when D2D communications are activated/deactivated, the capability signaling dynamically updates the network's understanding of available resources. This dynamic approach allows the system to share frequency bands efficiently while maintaining communication reliability through adaptive resource management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3178269B1Device-to-device capability signaling
Publication Date: 2020.05.27 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP3178269B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3178269B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3178269B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Methods, systems, and devices are described for signaling device-to-device (D2D) capability information. A user equipment (UE) may determine a frequency band list of frequency bands supported for D2D proximity service communications. Based on the frequency band list, the UE may determine a proximity service record for a frequency band combination parameter, the frequency band combination parameter associated with non-D2D communications. The proximity service record may include a reduced capabilities record for the frequency band combination parameter that indicates reduced capabilities for non-D2D communications when D2D proximity service communications are active.