Dynamic Subframe Scheduling for LAA Interference and Delay
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
License Assisted Access (LAA) in LTE networks faces inefficiencies due to fixed frame structures that do not allow for flexible subframe usage, leading to unpredictable access to unlicensed bands and interference with asynchronous Wi-Fi operations, resulting in delayed transmissions and reduced adaptability to traffic demands.
Innovation Solution
A network node transmits dynamic uplink and downlink subframe scheduling information to wireless devices, enabling flexible scheduling patterns that allow any subframe to carry either downlink or uplink transmissions, thereby improving adaptability and reducing power consumption by avoiding unnecessary wake-ups during discontinuous reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed frame structures are used for subframe scheduling, then network structure simplicity is maintained, but scheduling flexibility and adaptability to traffic demands deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic subframe scheduling where the network node can flexibly assign each subframe to carry either downlink or uplink transmissions based on real-time traffic demands and channel conditions. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt scheduling patterns continuously, transforming the static fixed frame structure into a flexible dynamic scheduling mechanism that optimizes resource utilization while maintaining overall system simplicity.
2Reliability
If devices continuously monitor all subframes for downlink transmissions, then no downlink data is missed, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a mechanism where the network node provides explicit scheduling information to wireless devices, enabling them to autonomously determine which subframes will carry downlink transmissions. Devices use this information to enter dormant state during subframes designated for uplink-only transmissions, waking up only when downlink transmissions are scheduled. This self-service approach allows devices to manage their own power consumption while ensuring reliable data reception.
3Device complexity
If LAA operates in unlicensed spectrum without flexible scheduling, then spectrum sharing is simplified, but transmission delays increase due to unpredictable access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic scheduling to LAA operations in unlicensed spectrum, allowing the network node to adaptively adjust subframe assignments based on channel access success, interference conditions, and traffic priorities. When channel access is successful and conditions are favorable, the system can quickly allocate multiple consecutive subframes for downlink transmissions, minimizing delays. This dynamic approach maintains simple spectrum sharing mechanisms while significantly reducing transmission delays through flexible resource allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
According to some embodiments, a method in a network node comprises determining a first uplink/downlink scheduling pattern for a first plurality of consecutive subframes; transmitting the first uplink/downlink scheduling pattern to a wireless device; transmitting at least one subframe to the wireless device according to the first uplink/downlink scheduling pattern; determining a second uplink/downlink scheduling pattern for a second plurality of consecutive subframes, wherein the first plurality of consecutive subframes and the second plurality of consecutive subframes share at least one subframe; and transmitting the second uplink/downlink scheduling pattern to the wireless device.