Network Node D2D Power Threshold Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Device-to-Device (D2D) communication links in cellular networks degrade due to device movement and interference, leading to reduced network reliability and increased load on radio base stations.

Innovation Solution

A network node determines a threshold value based on interference information to set an upper limit for the transmit power of devices on D2D communication links, allowing devices to autonomously control power and preventing interference-induced link degradation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If devices autonomously control power on D2D links, then device mobility flexibility is improved, but link reliability deteriorates due to power management issues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice mobility flexibilityVSAvoidlink reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where devices report power level status to the network node, which then adjusts threshold values dynamically. This closed-loop control ensures link reliability is maintained while allowing device mobility, as the network node receives feedback about actual power conditions and adapts thresholds accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the power threshold dynamic rather than static. The network node determines and updates threshold values based on current network conditions and device states. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to device movement while maintaining reliable power control, resolving the contradiction between mobility flexibility and link reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Object-generated harmful factors

If network node sets strict power thresholds, then interference to cellular links is reduced, but D2D communication quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference to cellular linksVSAvoidD2D communication quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different power threshold levels to different D2D links based on their specific interference conditions. Instead of a uniform strict threshold, each link receives customized threshold values tailored to its local environment and interference profile. This allows some links to operate at higher powers when interference conditions permit, maintaining D2D quality while still protecting cellular links where needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The network node dynamically changes power threshold parameters based on observed interference levels and communication quality metrics. When interference to cellular links is low, thresholds are relaxed to improve D2D quality. When interference increases, thresholds are tightened. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction by making the threshold strictness conditional rather than absolute.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If network node frequently adjusts power thresholds, then D2D link management accuracy is improved, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D link management accuracyVSAvoidsignaling overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic threshold adjustments rather than continuous adjustments. The network node evaluates whether threshold changes are needed at regular intervals or based on triggering events, rather than continuously signaling. This periodic approach maintains management accuracy by adjusting thresholds when conditions warrant it, while reducing signaling overhead by avoiding unnecessary frequent adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies threshold adjustments selectively rather than universally. The network node identifies specific D2D links that require threshold changes and adjusts only those, rather than updating all links simultaneously. This partial action approach maintains management accuracy for links that need it while minimizing signaling overhead by leaving other links unchanged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS10129836B2Network node and method for managing maximum transmission power levels for a D2D communication link
Publication Date: 2018.11.13 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US10129836B2 patent drawing
  • US10129836B2 patent drawing
  • US10129836B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A network node and a method therein for managing a device-to-device, D2D, communication link between a first device and a second device are disclosed. The network node determines a threshold value based on interference information relating to interference of the first device. The threshold value indicates an upper limit for allowable transmit power of the first device when transmitting on the D2D communication link. Then, the network node sends the threshold value to the first device. Subsequently, the network node receives, from the first device, a message indicating that power of transmission, by the first device, on the D2D communication link exceeds the threshold value.