Distributed Coverage Optimization in Wireless Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems rely heavily on centralized infrastructure for self-optimization, leading to inefficiencies in coverage and capacity optimization, which increases costs and reduces Return on Investment (ROI) for network operators.

Innovation Solution

A distributed coverage optimization method and apparatus that enables network elements to perform self-optimization based on information exchanged with other network elements and wireless terminals, facilitating autonomous coverage and capacity optimization without extensive human intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If centralized infrastructure is used for self-optimization, then network control and management is simplified, but operational costs increase and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecentralized infrastructure complexityVSAvoidoptimization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the centralized optimization function into distributed optimization entities deployed across multiple network elements. Each network element runs local optimization algorithms independently, dividing the monolithic centralized system into autonomous segments that operate in parallel, thereby reducing operational costs while maintaining or improving optimization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-dimensional centralized control architecture to a multi-dimensional distributed architecture where optimization occurs across multiple network elements simultaneously. This dimensional expansion allows parallel processing of optimization tasks, improving overall productivity while reducing the burden on any single infrastructure component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If centralized infrastructure is used for coverage optimization, then centralized control is maintained, but operational costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecentralized control reliabilityVSAvoidoperational cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling network elements to perform coverage optimization autonomously using locally deployed optimization entities. These entities automatically collect performance data, analyze coverage conditions, and adjust parameters without requiring centralized intervention, thereby eliminating ongoing operational costs while maintaining reliable control through distributed decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the optimization functionality from the centralized infrastructure and deploys it as independent optimization entities within individual network elements. This extraction removes the continuous operational burden from the centralized system, reducing costs while preserving control reliability through the autonomous operation of distributed optimization agents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If manual intervention is used for optimization, then precise control is achieved, but time consumption and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptimization control precisionVSAvoidoptimization time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous feedback loops where optimization entities monitor network performance metrics in real-time, automatically adjust coverage parameters based on measured conditions, and verify results. This closed-loop feedback system maintains precise control comparable to manual intervention while operating autonomously and continuously, eliminating time delays associated with human response and reducing operational costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs preliminary action by pre-configuring optimization entities with algorithms and criteria for automatic decision-making. These entities are prepared in advance to immediately respond to changing network conditions without waiting for manual analysis, achieving precise control through pre-programmed optimization logic while significantly reducing the time required for optimization actions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2428057B1Generating and exchanging measurement information for coverage optimization in wireless networks
Publication Date: 2019.11.27 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP2428057B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2428057B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2428057B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Generating and exchanging measurement information for coverage optimization in wireless networks like Self-Optimizing Network, SON, applying coverage and capacity optimization, CCO, algorithms. Facilitating a distributed coverage optimization versus a centralized one. A communication is established with at least one external entity, and a coverage-related measurement is received as a report from the at least one external entity (User equipment or Base Station). A coverage parameter is then self-optimized as a function of the coverage-related measurement.