Dynamic Spectrum Sharing in 5G Cellular Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G New Radio (NR) cellular networks, efficiently allocating and managing spectrum between a cellular network provider and a secondary operator is challenging, particularly in scenarios where the secondary operator does not need all allocated resources, leading to inefficiencies and potential security concerns.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where the secondary operator dynamically releases and reclaims spectrum by adjusting bandwidth part (BWP) definitions, allowing the cellular network operator to use the released spectrum while ensuring the secondary operator's network maintains autonomy and security through dedicated radio units and data centers, and routing communications through distinct network slices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spectrum is allocated to secondary operator, then network coverage and service availability are improved, but spectrum utilization efficiency deteriorates when secondary operator does not need all allocated resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic spectrum sharing where the secondary operator can dynamically adjust its spectrum allocation by releasing unused spectrum back to the cellular network operator. This dynamic mechanism allows the system to adapt to changing traffic conditions and secondary operator needs, transforming static spectrum allocation into a flexible, demand-driven model that optimizes utilization efficiency while maintaining network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spectrum allocation parameter from fixed to variable based on actual usage conditions. The secondary operator monitors its spectrum usage and can modify its allocation status by releasing spectrum when not needed, thereby changing the allocation parameter from maximum allocation to demand-based allocation, which improves overall spectrum utilization efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If spectrum is released by secondary operator, then spectrum utilization efficiency is improved, but network coverage and service availability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic spectrum sharing mechanism allows the secondary operator to release spectrum temporarily when not needed, improving efficiency. The system dynamically restores coverage by reallocating spectrum back to the secondary operator when traffic conditions require it, thus balancing efficiency and coverage through dynamic adjustment rather than static allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic monitoring and evaluation of spectrum usage by the secondary operator. Based on this periodic assessment, the spectrum allocation is adjusted - releasing when unused and reallocating when needed - creating a rhythmic cycle of release and recovery that maintains both efficiency and coverage over time.
3Reliability
If secondary operator uses dedicated radio units and data centers, then network security and autonomy are improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the secondary operator's radio units with the cellular network operator's infrastructure. Instead of completely independent dedicated units, the secondary operator shares the cellular network's physical infrastructure (towers, antennas, transmission equipment) while maintaining separate logical network slices and data centers. This combining approach reduces infrastructure complexity while preserving security through logical isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network into distinct logical components - the cellular network operator provides physical infrastructure and core network functions, while the secondary operator maintains separate data centers and network slices for its services. This segmentation allows security and autonomy to be maintained through logical separation while sharing physical resources to reduce complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Various arrangements for cellular networks are presented herein. The cellular network can include a first radio unit, wherein first communications for the first radio unit on a cellular network are performed as part of a first cellular network slice. The cellular network can include a second radio unit, wherein second communications for the second radio unit on the cellular network are performed as part of a second cellular network slice. A distributed unit of the cellular network is in communication with the first radio unit and the second radio unit. The second communications can be routed in encrypted form to a data center that is separate and distinct from the cellular network.