Flexible Muting Pattern Activation for LTE Time-Domain ICIC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current time domain inter-cell interference coordination (ICIC) methods in LTE-A networks, such as TDM ICIC, face challenges in effectively managing interference between macro and CSG HeNBs, particularly in heterogeneous networks with unequal user or traffic distribution, as they rely on fixed muting patterns that do not adapt to dynamic interference scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a flexible muting pattern comprising a fixed and an optional part, where the optional part can be activated based on user equipment (UE) requests or network decisions, allowing for dynamic adjustment of subframes to reduce interference, thereby enhancing interference coordination without requiring extensive coordination between HeNBs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed muting patterns are used for TDM ICIC, then interference coordination between macro and CSG HeNBs is achieved, but channel capacity is wasted due to inability to adapt to dynamic interference scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed muting patterns to flexible muting patterns that can be dynamically activated or deactivated. The network element receives feedback about interference conditions and adjusts the muting pattern accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to changing interference scenarios while maintaining reliable interference coordination when needed and releasing channel capacity when interference is low.
2Loss of energy
If flexible muting patterns with optional parts are implemented, then channel capacity waste is reduced by dynamic activation, but device complexity increases due to additional coordination mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the user equipment to autonomously detect interference conditions and provide feedback to the network element. This self-measurement and self-reporting mechanism reduces the need for complex centralized coordination, as the system leverages local observations at the UE to trigger flexible muting pattern activation only when and where needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If muting patterns are activated based on UE requests, then adaptability to dynamic interference scenarios is improved, but loss of time increases due to feedback and activation signaling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple muting patterns with different characteristics (e.g., different muting ratios, different subframe allocations) before interference occurs. When the UE detects interference, it can request activation of a pre-configured pattern rather than requiring time-consuming real-time configuration, thus reducing the time loss associated with feedback and activation signaling.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an example embodiment of this invention, a method may include by a processor, receiving a configuration of a flexible muting pattern, wherein the muting pattern comprises a fixed part and an optional part; determining to activate the optional part of the flexible muting pattern; and preparing a message indicating to a network element that the optional part of the flexible muting pattern is activated. Apparatus and computer readable media are also described.