Dynamic TDD Configuration via Dual Modification Periods

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing TDD system in LTE communication faces challenges in dynamically adjusting uplink-downlink frame configurations in response to varying traffic patterns due to the long modification period, which hinders quick adaptation to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases inter-cell interference.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic TDD mechanism that allows for multiple changes in uplink-downlink frame configurations within a single modification period by introducing a faster modification period, which is an integer divisor of the conventional period, enabling more frequent updates without requiring all UEs to immediately adapt, and includes a 'no-change zone and indicators for configuration changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a long modification period is used for system information updates, then system stability and UE processing load are reduced, but the ability to dynamically adapt to traffic pattern changes is impaired

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic adaptation to traffic changesVSAvoidlead time for configuration changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the system information update mechanism into two distinct modification periods: a first modification period for complete SIB updates and a second modification period (shorter duration) for TDD configuration changes. This segmentation allows different types of information to be updated at different rates, enabling dynamic adaptation without requiring complete SIB retransmission every time TDD config changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic flexibility by allowing the second modification period to be configured as a divisor of the first modification period (e.g., 1/2, 1/4, 1/8). This dynamic configuration enables the system to adjust update frequencies based on traffic conditions while maintaining stability during normal operation. The mechanism becomes more responsive when needed without permanently increasing processing load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If uplink-downlink frame configuration is changed frequently to match traffic variations, then system adaptability improves, but inter-cell interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic pattern adaptationVSAvoidinter-cell interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the eNodeB notify UEs about upcoming TDD configuration changes before they actually occur. The indication is provided in advance (at least one modification period ahead), allowing UEs to prepare for the change by adjusting their reception expectations. This reduces the harmful impact of sudden configuration changes and gives neighboring cells time to coordinate, reducing inter-cell interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the eNodeB monitors traffic conditions and dynamically adjusts the modification period configuration based on actual network needs. The system receives feedback about traffic patterns and adjusts the second modification period accordingly, creating a closed-loop control that balances adaptability with interference management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Speed

If system information is broadcasted frequently to enable quick configuration changes, then responsiveness to traffic changes improves, but UE processing load and signaling overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration update speedVSAvoidUE processing load
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the TDD configuration information from the complete System Information Blocks and separates it into a dedicated second modification period. This extraction allows TDD configuration to be updated independently and more frequently without triggering complete SIB retransmission. UEs only need to process the abbreviated second modification period notifications for TDD changes, significantly reducing processing load compared to full SIB updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by providing only the necessary TDD configuration information in the second modification period rather than complete SIB content. This partial update approach provides sufficient information for TDD adaptation without the excessive processing burden of complete system information retransmission, optimizing the balance between responsiveness and UE energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9602269B2Dynamic time division duplexing method and apparatuses using the same
Publication Date: 2017.03.21 ACER INC
  • US9602269B2 patent drawing
  • US9602269B2 patent drawing
  • US9602269B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure proposes a dynamic time division duplexing (TDD) method applicable to a user equipment and a control node, and apparatuses using the same method. Accordingly, the present disclosure proposes a base station (BS) which transmits to a least one user equipment (UE) a system information block (SIB) having a first modification period, and the base station may transmit a TDD uplink-downlink subframe configuration during the first modification period. The BS also configures for at least one UE a second modification period which is in an integer divisor of the first modification period and could be within the first modification period so that the BS may transmit a second TDD uplink-downlink subframe configuration in the second modification period. As the second modification period is shorter than the first modification period and is periodically scheduled, the BS may alter the current TDD uplink-downlink subframe configuration dynamically at a faster rate.