Hidden WLAN Detection via UE-Assisted Monitoring in 5G
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interference between 5G cellular transmissions and wireless local area network (WLAN) transmissions in unlicensed spectrum leads to degradation of the wireless ecosystem, with existing technologies struggling to detect and mitigate hidden WLANs, resulting in negative impacts on both RATs.
Innovation Solution
A method where a base station and user equipment communicate using a first radio access technology, with the base station transmitting monitoring parameters to the user equipment to detect WLAN traffic, allowing the determination of traffic load levels and the presence of hidden WLANs, enabling actions to minimize interference, such as adjusting scheduling to avoid collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If base station monitors WLAN traffic directly, then interference detection capability is improved, but hidden WLANs cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the UE as an intermediary device that monitors WLAN traffic and reports it to the BS. Since the UE is located at the edge of the cell where hidden WLANs are more likely to occur, it can detect traffic from WLANs that are out of the BS's reception range. The UE acts as a mediator between the hidden WLAN and the BS, enabling indirect detection of otherwise undetectable networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to WLAN monitoring by deploying monitoring functions at multiple locations (both at the BS and at the UE). This multi-position monitoring approach creates a dimensional expansion in the detection coverage, allowing the system to detect WLANs from different spatial perspectives and identify hidden networks that are invisible from the BS location.
2Reliability
If base station adjusts scheduling to avoid WLAN interference, then transmission reliability is improved, but scheduling flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic scheduling adjustment where the BS modifies resource allocation based on real-time hidden WLAN detection results. When hidden WLANs are detected, the BS dynamically adjusts uplink scheduling for affected UEs by selecting alternative time-frequency resources. This dynamic approach maintains scheduling flexibility while ensuring reliable transmission by adapting to changing interference conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies localized scheduling adjustments only to UEs affected by hidden WLAN interference rather than globally adjusting all scheduling. The BS identifies specific UEs experiencing interference and applies targeted resource allocation modifications for those users only, preserving scheduling flexibility for other UEs while ensuring reliable transmission for affected users.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple devices monitor WLAN traffic, then detection coverage is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the WLAN monitoring function into two independent parts: direct monitoring at the BS and indirect monitoring at the UE. Each device performs a simplified monitoring task and reports findings to the other. This segmentation allows both devices to use their existing monitoring capabilities without requiring complex integrated monitoring systems, thereby expanding detection coverage while maintaining individual device simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the monitoring capabilities of the BS and UE into a collaborative detection system. The BS monitors WLAN traffic in its coverage area while the UE monitors for hidden WLANs, and both reports are combined at the BS to form a comprehensive interference picture. This merging of monitoring functions from multiple devices expands detection coverage while leveraging existing monitoring capabilities rather than adding complex new functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for a wireless device and base station using a first radio access technology to monitor traffic load on a second radio access technology. A wireless device may monitor traffic of the second radio access technology and may transmit one or more traffic load reports to the base station. The base station may, based on the report(s) and its own observations, determine whether a hidden network of the second radio access technology is present at the wireless device.