Dynamic PRACH Configuration Index Allocation for Wireless Access Nodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communication systems, static allocation of physical resources to the physical random access channel (PRACH) leads to increased congestion when too many resources are allocated, and delays in network entry when too few are allocated, due to lack of responsiveness to changing network conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced to dynamically select a second PRACH configuration index based on loading information and random access failure rates, allowing for adaptive allocation of sub-frames to the PRACH, ensuring optimal resource utilization and minimizing congestion or delays.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If static allocation of physical resources to PRACH is used, then resource allocation is simple and stable, but congestion increases when too many resources are allocated and network entry delays occur when too few are allocated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork entry efficiencyVSAvoidresource allocation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic resource allocation for PRACH by monitoring network conditions (loading information and random access failure rates) and adjusting the PRACH configuration index accordingly. This transforms the static resource allocation into a dynamic system that adapts to changing network conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple allocation and efficient network entry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring network loading information and random access failure rates, then using this feedback to adjust the PRACH configuration. This closed-loop control system enables the network to respond to actual conditions, improving network entry efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through automated adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If more physical resources are allocated to PRACH, then random access failure rate decreases, but network congestion increases due to fewer resources available for bearer data

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverandom access success rateVSAvoidbearer data transmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameter of PRACH configuration index based on monitored network conditions. By adjusting this parameter dynamically, the system optimizes the balance between random access success rate and bearer data transmission efficiency, avoiding the need for static over-allocation or under-allocation of resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static to dynamic resource allocation, allowing the PRACH resource allocation to adapt in real-time to network conditions. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to maintain high random access success rates while preserving sufficient resources for bearer data transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If fewer physical resources are allocated to PRACH, then network congestion is reduced, but network entry delays increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebearer data transmission efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork entry time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses feedback from network loading information and random access failure rate monitoring to dynamically adjust PRACH resources. This ensures that sufficient resources are allocated during periods of high network entry demand, reducing delays while preventing excessive allocation during low-demand periods that would cause congestion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

By implementing dynamic resource allocation, the system can flexibly adjust PRACH resources based on actual network conditions, ensuring timely network entry when needed while maintaining efficient bearer data transmission during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If static PRACH configuration is used, then system complexity is low, but the system cannot adapt to changing network conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponsiveness to network conditionsVSAvoidresource allocation mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback-driven adaptation mechanism where the system monitors network conditions and automatically adjusts PRACH configuration. This feedback loop provides adaptability to changing conditions while keeping the complexity manageable through automated control rather than manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-adjustment of PRACH resources based on its own monitoring of network conditions. This self-service capability enables adaptability without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration, balancing adaptability with operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9380605B1Allocating resources in a wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2016.06.28 SPRINT SPECTRUM LLC
  • US9380605B1 patent drawing
  • US9380605B1 patent drawing
  • US9380605B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Loading information of an access node and a random access failure rate at the access node are determined, wherein the access node is using a first physical random access channel (PRACH) configuration index. Based on the comparison of the loading information to a loading criteria and the comparison of the random access failure rate to a failure rate criteria, a second PRACH configuration index is selected for the access node.