eNodeB Layer 2 Moderation for D2D Multicast Resource Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3GPP LTE specifications do not effectively support or optimize device-to-device (D2D) multicast communications, particularly in scenarios where groups of peer user equipment (UEs) are within range of a single eNodeB, and existing solutions like Wi-Fi Direct and Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Services do not enable interactive multicast transmissions among UEs.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves eNodeB coordination to enable direct, uplink multicast transmissions between peer UEs by acting as a layer 2 moderator, using group identifiers and logical channel resources, and allowing for both interactive and passive multicast D2D communications, even when UEs are in proximity and exhibit low mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If Wi-Fi Direct is used for D2D multicast communications, then UEs can communicate directly without network infrastructure, but UEs must remain within Wi-Fi range of each other which limits coverage area
Solution Approach 1:
The eNodeB serves as an intermediary Layer 2 moderator that coordinates multicast transmissions between UEs. It receives requests from transmitting UEs, allocates uplink resources, and manages group identifiers, enabling D2D multicast communications to extend beyond direct Wi-Fi range while maintaining organized resource coordination.
2Productivity
If separate uplink and downlink resources are allocated for group calls, then resource coordination is simplified, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines uplink and downlink resource allocation into a unified resource pool managed by the eNodeB. The eNodeB dynamically assigns resources from this combined pool based on actual transmission needs, allowing flexible allocation that improves overall resource utilization while the eNodeB handles the coordination complexity centrally.
3Productivity
If eNodeB coordinates all multicast transmissions, then resource allocation is optimized, but signaling overhead and coordination delay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The eNodeB performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring resource pools and group identifiers before actual multicast transmissions begin. This advance preparation reduces the coordination delay during actual transmissions, as the eNodeB can quickly allocate pre-defined resources rather than negotiating parameters in real-time.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing 3GPP LTE specifications are used, then backward compatibility is maintained, but D2D multicast communications are not effectively supported or optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the D2D multicast functionality into distinct modular components: Layer 2 moderation functions at the eNodeB, specific message types for resource requests and allocations, group identifier management, and uplink resource coordination. This modular segmentation enables enhanced D2D multicast support while maintaining compatibility with existing 3GPP LTE specifications through additive rather than disruptive changes.
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for supporting multicast device-to-device communications are described herein. A user equipment (UE) may transmit a request to a serving evolved Node B (eNodeB) for permission to transmit to a group of peer UEs. The UE may receive a resource assignment in response to the request. The resource allocation assignment may specify a group identifier. The group identifier may identify a group including the UE and the group of peer UEs. The UE may transmit a multicast transmission to the group of peer UEs using a resource assigned by the eNodeB with the resource assignment.