Dynamic PRB Blanking for Cross-Border Spectrum Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conflicting spectrum usage across national borders due to different telecommunications network operators leads to interference, with existing static PRB blanking methods depriving users of full licensed spectrum.

Innovation Solution

Implementing dynamic PRB blanking mechanisms in base stations that detect interference from neighboring country UEs, using probes, analyzers, and schedulers to dynamically blank PRBs based on detected noise levels and machine learning, while moving UEs to other spectrum regions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If static PRB blanking is performed to avoid spectrum interference with neighboring country operators, then interference is reduced, but users are deprived of full licensed spectrum

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum interferenceVSAvoidspectrum availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic PRB blanking that adjusts spectrum allocation based on real-time detection of neighboring country UE activity. The base station monitors for uplink transmissions from neighboring country UEs and dynamically blanks PRBs only when interference is detected, rather than maintaining static blanking. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by making spectrum availability conditional on actual interference conditions, allowing full spectrum use when no interference is present while preventing interference when neighboring UEs are active.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of PRB allocation from fixed/static to variable/dynamic based on detected interference conditions. The base station modifies PRB blanking parameters in response to detected uplink transmissions from neighboring country UEs, adjusting the degree of spectrum blanking according to actual interference levels. This parameter change enables the system to optimize between interference reduction and spectrum utilization based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If manual configuration of static PRB blanking is implemented, then spectrum conflicts are avoided, but spectrum utilization efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum conflict avoidanceVSAvoidspectrum utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station detects uplink transmissions from neighboring country UEs and uses this information to dynamically adjust PRB blanking decisions. The detection component continuously monitors the spectrum and provides feedback to the scheduling component, which adjusts resource allocation accordingly. This feedback loop replaces manual static configuration with automated dynamic adjustment, improving spectrum utilization efficiency while maintaining reliable conflict avoidance through continuous monitoring and adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The base station performs self-service by automatically detecting interference conditions and adjusting its own PRB blanking configuration without requiring manual operator intervention. The system monitors its own spectrum usage and neighboring transmissions, then autonomously modifies its resource allocation to prevent conflicts while maximizing utilization. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration while maintaining spectrum conflict avoidance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Quantity of substance

If full licensed spectrum is allocated to users, then spectrum availability is maximized, but interference with neighboring country operators increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum availabilityVSAvoidspectrum interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamic adjustment to PRB blanking to balance spectrum availability and interference generation. Instead of static allocation, the system continuously monitors for neighboring country UE transmissions and dynamically modifies PRB usage accordingly. When no interference is detected, full spectrum is made available to users; when interference is detected, PRBs are dynamically blanked to prevent harmful effects. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by making spectrum availability contingent on actual interference conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the potential for interference as a beneficial signal to trigger dynamic PRB blanking adjustments. By monitoring for signs of neighboring country UE activity that would cause interference, the system proactively prevents harmful effects while maintaining full spectrum availability during normal conditions. The potential harm serves as a useful indicator that drives the dynamic allocation decisions, converting the interference problem into a beneficial control mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS20250233714A1Dynamic PRB blanking near border areas
Publication Date: 2025.07.17 T MOBILE US INC
  • US20250233714A1 patent drawing
  • US20250233714A1 patent drawing
  • US20250233714A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein are component(s) and device(s) of a telecommunications network. One or more of the components is configured to detect impact at a cell site on designated spectrum by a neighboring country user equipment (UE) associated with a different telecommunications network. A base station of the component(s) and device(s) blanks physical resource blocks (PRBs) associated with the designated spectrum in response to the detecting.