Dynamic Contention-Based Access Channel Signaling for Radio Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current contention-based access channels in radio communication networks are inefficient due to slow reconfiguration and underutilization of resources, particularly in scenarios with immediate traffic changes, as they rely on semi-static channel configurations that do not allow for quick adaptation to available unused uplink resources.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a UE group identity common to multiple UEs, which is signaled in a data frame's first zone, allowing UEs to utilize a reserved contention-based access channel in a subsequent zone, enabling more efficient use of resources by dynamically allocating scheduled uplink resources based on available unused resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If semi-static channel configurations are used for contention-based access channels, then system stability and simplicity are maintained, but the ability to adapt quickly to traffic changes and resource availability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration of contention-based access channels by allowing the eNB to allocate and reconfigure resources based on real-time traffic conditions and resource availability, transforming the static RACH configuration into a dynamic resource allocation mechanism that adapts to changing network conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the configuration parameters of contention-based access channels dynamically by modifying time-frequency resource allocations, UE group identities, and access channel characteristics based on traffic load and resource availability, enabling quick adaptation without complete reconfiguration
2Productivity
If dedicated scheduling request resources are allocated to each UE, then resource allocation efficiency is improved, but the overhead and complexity of resource management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple UEs into groups identified by UE group identities, allowing shared access to contention-based resources while maintaining individual scheduling capability, thus reducing management overhead while preserving allocation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates scheduling request resources that serve dual purposes: functioning as dedicated resources for scheduled UEs and as contention-based resources for unscheduled or group-member UEs, maximizing resource utilization without increasing management complexity
3Ease of operation
If random access signaling is used for resource requests, then UEs without assigned resources can access the network, but resource utilization efficiency decreases due to contention and collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically allocates contention-based access resources based on actual network conditions and UE needs, transforming the fixed random access configuration into an adaptive resource pool that minimizes contention while maintaining access capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables UEs to autonomously select and use available contention-based resources from dynamically allocated pools, allowing self-service access without extensive scheduling intervention while improving overall resource utilization through coordinated multi-UE access
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure concerns radio communication. More particularly, the disclosure presents a contention based access channel signaling between a radio access network node, such as an evolved NodeB (eNB), and a User Equipment (UE). In one example embodiment, the UE receives 110 a data frame comprising multiple zones from an eNB. A zone of the multiple zones comprises an UE group identity as well as an indicator addressing a reserved contention-based access channel for use in another zone by those UEs having said UE group identity. Also, the UE group identity is retrieved 120, or otherwise read, from the zone. If, or when, the UE group identity matches that of the UE, the UE may utilize 130 the addressed reserved contention-based access channel.