Multi-Cell Network Construction via Inter-eNB Carrier Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication systems, particularly LTE-A, face service disruptions when an eNB is obstructed or overloaded, as they rely on intra-eNB carrier aggregation, which does not account for overlapping cells between eNBs serving different frequencies, leading to potential communication service breakdowns.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for constructing a multi-cell network by overlapping cells between eNBs serving different frequencies, allowing for the negotiation of a configuration to connect user equipment to multiple base stations through a first interface, enabling the use of multiple frequencies to maintain communication services even if one base station is obstructed or overloaded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If intra-eNB carrier aggregation is used, then data transfer rate is improved, but service stability deteriorates when eNB is obstructed or overloaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network architecture into multiple independent eNBs, each serving different frequency bands. Instead of relying on a single eNB for all carrier aggregation operations, the system segments the service across multiple base stations, allowing user equipment to switch between different eNBs if one becomes unavailable, thus maintaining service stability while preserving high data transfer rates through carrier aggregation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the network configuration parameter from single-eNB carrier aggregation to multi-eNB carrier aggregation. This parameter change enables the system to maintain carrier aggregation capabilities across different base stations, allowing dynamic switching between eNBs based on service availability, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining high data transfer rates and ensuring service stability.
2Device complexity
If single eNB is used for carrier aggregation, then network complexity is reduced, but service availability deteriorates due to obstacles or load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal interface and protocol framework that enables multiple eNBs to participate in carrier aggregation operations. By defining standardized procedures for inter-eNB communication, cell grouping, and configuration negotiation, the system achieves multi-functionality where any eNB can serve as a carrier aggregation participant, thereby improving service availability without proportionally increasing network complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary signaling mechanism that coordinates communication between multiple eNBs and user equipment. This intermediary protocol layer manages the complexity of inter-eNB interactions by standardizing message exchanges for cell addition, modification, and release, thereby enabling service availability improvements while keeping the increase in network complexity manageable through structured communication protocols.
3Reliability
If inter-eNB carrier aggregation is implemented, then service stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where user equipment autonomously monitors signal quality and service availability across different eNBs, and automatically initiates switching decisions based on pre-configured criteria. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex centralized control, thereby improving service stability while limiting the increase in device complexity through autonomous decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-configuring cell groups and establishing measurement configurations before service disruptions occur. User equipment is pre-prepared with multiple cell candidates and switching criteria, enabling rapid response to eNB failures without requiring complex real-time decision-making, thus improving service stability while keeping device complexity manageable through advance preparation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method by which a base station connected to a terminal through a first cell constructs a multi-cell network with another base station supporting a second cell, the method comprising the steps of: setting up a group including the first and second cells with the other base station through a first interface; and negotiating with the other base station through the first interface with respect to a configuration for additionally connecting the second cell to the terminal. However, the present invention is not limited to the example and other examples are possible.