Coordinating Shared Resource Pools for D2D Discovery in Heterogeneous Cellular Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

In heterogeneous cellular networks, existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently coordinating resource pools for device-to-device (D2D) discovery signal transmission between larger and smaller cells, leading to suboptimal D2D communication performance due to resource allocation conflicts and complexity in system information updates.

Innovation Solution

The method involves coordinating shared resource pools between larger and smaller cells, with the larger cell acting as a central entity to manage and advertise common or exclusive resource pools for D2D communication, ensuring non-device-specific or device-specific resource allocation, and resolving conflicts to facilitate efficient D2D discovery and communication across the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If resource pools are shared between larger and smaller cells in heterogeneous cellular networks, then device-to-device discovery communication is enabled across different cell types, but resource allocation conflicts and system information update complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D communication capabilityVSAvoidsystem information update complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments resource pools into different types (first resource pool for larger cells, second resource pool for smaller cells) and assigns different management responsibilities. The eNodeB manages the first resource pool while the gNodeB manages the second resource pool, dividing the complex system information update task into manageable segments that reduce overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a mediator mechanism where the eNodeB and gNodeB coordinate resource pool management through standardized interfaces. This intermediary coordination layer enables D2D communication across heterogeneous cells while simplifying the information update process by establishing clear management boundaries and protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If resource pools are coordinated between larger and smaller cells, then D2D discovery signal transmission is improved, but resource allocation conflicts arise

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D discovery efficiencyVSAvoidresource allocation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides resource allocation into separate pools managed by different network nodes (eNodeB for larger cells, gNodeB for smaller cells). This segmentation prevents conflicts by ensuring that resource allocation decisions are made independently within each pool while maintaining coordination at the network level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the eNodeB and gNodeB exchange information about resource pool status and allocation decisions. This feedback loop enables the system to resolve potential conflicts and optimize resource utilization while maintaining reliable D2D communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If frequent system information updates are performed to coordinate resource pools, then resource allocation accuracy is improved, but network overhead and latency increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation accuracyVSAvoidsystem information update time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic resource pool management where the eNodeB and gNodeB can adjust resource allocation in real-time based on network conditions. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain accurate resource allocation without requiring frequent comprehensive updates, reducing overhead while preserving precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary configuration of resource pools during network setup, where the eNodeB and gNodeB pre-allocate and advertise resource pools to user equipment. This preliminary action reduces the need for frequent updates during operation, as the basic resource allocation framework is already in place.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10924983B2Methods and apparatus for discovery signal transmission between a plurality of devices
Publication Date: 2021.02.16 NOKIA SOLUTIONS & NETWORKS OY
  • US10924983B2 patent drawing
  • US10924983B2 patent drawing
  • US10924983B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method includes coordinating one or more pools of resources for discovery signal transmission between a plurality of devices, at least one of said pools of resources being shared by at least one larger cell and at least one smaller cell at least partially in a coverage area of the said larger cell.