D2D Resource Release via Early Indication

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communications networks, particularly in LTE Rel-12, there is a need to efficiently manage resource allocation for device-to-device (D2D) communication, as current mechanisms do not allow for the early release of resources during an allocation period, leading to inefficient resource utilization when a user equipment's (UE) buffer runs empty, resulting in wasted resources.

Innovation Solution

A UE can indicate an early release of resources allocated for Mode 1 D2D communication by signaling through physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) resources or proximity service buffer status reports (ProSe-BSRs), distinguishing between real-time and delay-tolerant data, allowing for resource release when only low-priority data is pending, and reserving resources for high-priority data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If resources are allocated for D2D communication during an allocation period, then D2D communication can be established, but resources cannot be released early even when the UE buffer runs empty, leading to resource waste

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D communication reliabilityVSAvoidresource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic resource release mechanisms that allow the allocated resources to be released early when the UE buffer runs empty. The system transitions from a static allocation approach (where resources are held for the entire allocation period) to a dynamic approach (where resources can be released based on actual buffer status), thereby improving resource utilization efficiency while maintaining D2D communication reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE monitors its buffer status and provides updates to the network. When the buffer runs empty, the UE triggers a buffer status report (BSR) that feeds back to the network, enabling the network to make informed decisions about resource release. This feedback loop ensures that resources are released only when appropriate, maintaining communication reliability while preventing resource waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If resources are reserved for the entire allocation period, then D2D communication is guaranteed, but uplink resources cannot be reused, resulting in inefficient resource utilization

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveD2D communication guaranteeVSAvoiduplink resource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables dynamic resource management where the allocation period is divided into multiple opportunities for resource release. Instead of a static reservation for the entire period, the system allows periodic reassessment of buffer status and enables resource release at intermediate points, thus improving uplink resource utilization productivity while maintaining communication guarantees through appropriate resource reservation when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces periodic buffer status reporting mechanisms that allow the network to periodically assess whether resources should be released. This periodic action creates multiple checkpoints during the allocation period where resource utilization can be optimized without compromising the overall communication guarantee, thereby improving uplink resource productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Loss of energy

If early resource release is allowed, then resource utilization efficiency improves, but interference control and physical resource management become more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource waste reductionVSAvoidresource management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the buffer status report (BSR) as an intermediary mechanism that simplifies the resource management process. Instead of requiring complex direct negotiation between UE and network for resource release, the BSR serves as a standardized intermediary signal that triggers predefined resource release procedures. This intermediary approach reduces management complexity while enabling resource waste reduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the buffer status report (such as buffer size indicators, priority levels, and traffic type classifications) to trigger appropriate resource release decisions. By monitoring and responding to changes in these parameters, the system can automatically adjust resource allocation without requiring complex management logic, thus reducing device complexity while improving resource utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10064035B2Device-to-device (D2D) resource release
Publication Date: 2018.08.28 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • US10064035B2 patent drawing
  • US10064035B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for device-to-device (D2D) resource release are provided. One method includes indicating an early release of resources allocated to a UE.