Dynamic LBT Scheme Switching for 5G Unlicensed Spectrum Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The rapid growth of user data in 5G new radio (NR) networks leads to increased demand for a broad frequency spectrum, necessitating the use of unlicensed spectrum. In low frequency NR unlicensed bands, the omnidirectional Listen Before Talk (LBT) scheme is mandated, which may not be suitable for high frequency communication due to directional transmission requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows wireless communication nodes and network devices to dynamically switch between different LBT schemes (No LBT, omnidirectional LBT, and directional LBT) based on congestion levels and trigger events, enabling more flexible configurations and reducing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If omnidirectional LBT scheme is used in low frequency unlicensed band, then transmission reliability is improved, but spectrum efficiency deteriorates due to inability to support directional transmission in high frequency communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between omnidirectional LBT and directional LBT schemes based on frequency band and communication conditions. The system adapts the LBT transmission pattern from static omnidirectional to dynamic directional selection, allowing reliable communication in low frequencies while improving spectrum efficiency in high frequencies through beamforming and spatial reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different LBT schemes to different frequency bands and spatial directions. In low frequency bands, omnidirectional LBT is used for reliability, while in high frequency bands, directional LBT with beamforming is applied to improve spectrum efficiency. This localized adaptation resolves the contradiction by optimizing each band's characteristics.
2Productivity
If directional LBT scheme is used in high frequency communication, then spectrum efficiency is improved, but compatibility with existing omnidirectional systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal LBT framework that can operate in both omnidirectional and directional modes. The system maintains compatibility with existing omnidirectional systems while adding directional capabilities for high frequency bands. The base station can select appropriate LBT schemes based on service type, frequency band, and interference conditions, ensuring broad adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between omnidirectional and directional LBT schemes based on frequency band and communication conditions. The system adapts the LBT transmission pattern from static omnidirectional to dynamic directional selection, allowing reliable communication in low frequencies while improving spectrum efficiency in high frequencies through beamforming and spatial reuse.
3Adaptability or versatility
If LBT scheme switching is implemented dynamically, then adaptability to different communication conditions is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the base station monitors channel congestion levels, interference conditions, and transmission success rates. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts LBT scheme selection and beamforming parameters. The feedback loop enables adaptive optimization without requiring complex manual configuration, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
4Reliability
If massive antenna elements are used for beam-forming in high frequency, then transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna array into multiple sub-arrays or groups, each capable of independent beamforming operations. This segmentation reduces the complexity of controlling massive antenna elements by dividing them into manageable units. The system can activate only necessary antenna groups based on channel conditions, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining transmission reliability through coordinated beamforming.
Data Source
AI summary
Method, device and computer program product for wireless communication are provided. A method includes: switching, by a wireless communication node, from a first uplink Listen Before Talk (LBT) scheme to a second uplink LBT scheme in response to a congestion level of an uplink channel between the wireless communication node and a network device or in response to a first or second downlink signal including LBT scheme switching information transmitted from the network device.