Distributed TDD Coordination for 5G NR Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G NR, face inefficiencies in time-division-duplex (TDD) operations due to static or semi-static configurations, leading to wasted resources and increased cross-link interference, especially when only one traffic direction is active, and existing solutions require high overhead signaling or co-location for coordination.
Innovation Solution
A method for distributed coordination of duplex directions in a network node that adapts transmission direction plans based on received information from other nodes, using low-overhead backhaul signaling to dynamically switch between static and flexible TDD modes, allowing for adaptive traffic direction selection without central coordination, thereby reducing cross-link interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If explicit signaling coordination is used to address cross-link interference among co-located macro cells, then cross-link interference is reduced, but signaling overhead and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the central coordination entity from the system, transitioning from centralized explicit signaling to distributed implicit coordination. Each gNB independently determines TDD directions based on local observations and pre-configured rules, eliminating the need for extensive inter-node signaling while maintaining interference coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
Each gNB serves itself by autonomously determining transmission directions based on local traffic conditions and pre-configured coordination rules. The system enables self-organizing behavior where nodes independently adapt to interference conditions without external control, reducing signaling overhead while maintaining coordinated operation.
2Device complexity
If static TDD configuration is used, then system complexity is reduced, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic TDD configuration where transmission directions can change flexibly based on real-time traffic conditions. Each gNB can adaptively switch between uplink and downlink directions in different time slots according to observed traffic patterns, maximizing resource utilization while maintaining manageable system complexity through pre-configured rules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes TDD configuration parameters (uplink/downlink slot assignments) based on observed traffic conditions. Pre-configured rules define how parameters should be adjusted under different traffic scenarios, enabling efficient adaptation without complex real-time coordination while maintaining system manageability.
3Productivity
If flexible duplex operation is implemented, then resource utilization efficiency is improved, but cross-link interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different TDD configurations to different cells based on their local traffic conditions and interference environments. Each gNB independently determines its transmission directions according to local observations and pre-configured rules, allowing flexible duplex operation in each cell while coordinating to minimize cross-link interference at cell boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pre-configured coordination rules that define in advance how gNBs should adjust their TDD directions to prevent cross-link interference. By having predetermined strategies for common interference scenarios, the system proactively prevents interference before it occurs rather than reacting to it, enabling flexible duplex operation while maintaining interference coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
According to certain embodiments, a method in a first network node scheduling time-division-duplexing (TDD) transmission for a first cell is provided. The method includes receiving transmission direction planning information from a plurality of other network nodes scheduling TDD transmissions for other cells. At least one transmission direction plan of the first network node is adapted based on the transmission direction planning information received from the plurality of other network nodes.