Dynamic Frequency Band Switching for Cellular Base Stations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Static frequency bands in cellular communication networks limit efficiency and hinder the management of issues such as congestion and interference, as they do not allow for dynamic adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A control element in the network obtains parameters for base station air interfaces to decide and command a switch from one frequency band to another, either programmatically or with human operator input, allowing for dynamic frequency band adjustments based on performance metrics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If static frequency bands are used for base station operation, then network stability is maintained, but network efficiency and adaptability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency band adaptabilityVSAvoidfrequency band control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic frequency band switching by enabling base stations to transition between different frequency bands (e.g., 700 MHz to 2100 MHz) based on real-time network conditions. The control element monitors parameters such as congestion levels, interference, and signal quality, then dynamically reconfigures base stations to operate on alternative frequency bands when needed, transforming the static frequency assignment into a dynamic adaptive system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms where the control element continuously receives performance metrics and operational parameters from base stations, processes this information to determine optimal frequency band selections, and sends control commands back to the base stations. This closed-loop feedback system enables automatic adaptation to changing network conditions while maintaining operational stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If static frequency bands are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but the ability to handle congestion and interference is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecongestion and interference managementVSAvoidfrequency band switching automation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The control element operates autonomously to monitor network conditions, evaluate performance parameters, and execute frequency band switching decisions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-adjusts by automatically detecting congestion or interference issues and reconfiguring base stations to appropriate frequency bands, enabling the network to self-heal and self-optimize based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes operational parameters by transitioning base stations between different frequency bands (e.g., switching from 700 MHz to 2100 MHz) based on monitored network conditions. This parameter change approach allows the system to adapt to varying congestion levels, interference patterns, and signal quality requirements by adjusting the fundamental operating frequency parameter of the base stations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If dynamic frequency band switching is implemented, then network efficiency and adaptability improve, but control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol element complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control element is designed as a multi-functional system that performs diverse tasks including monitoring multiple base stations, analyzing various performance parameters (congestion, interference, signal quality), making switching decisions, and executing reconfiguration commands. This universal control architecture consolidates multiple functions into a single system, managing the complexity through functional integration rather than proliferation of separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8892102B2Systems and methods for controlling a frequency band of operation of a base station
Publication Date: 2014.11.18 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US8892102B2 patent drawing
  • US8892102B2 patent drawing
  • US8892102B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to controlling a frequency band of operation of one or more base stations in a cellular communication network based on associated parameters of air interfaces of the one or more base stations. In one embodiment, a control element of the cellular communication network obtains parameters for an air interface of a base station. In addition, in some embodiments, the control element obtains one or more parameters for air interfaces of one or more additional base stations. Using the one or more parameters, the control element obtains a decision to switch a frequency band of operation of the base station from a first frequency band to a second frequency band. In response, the control element sends a command to the base station to switch the frequency band of operation of the base station from the first frequency band to the second frequency band.