Frequency Time Domain Interference Coordination Small Cell Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for downlink inter-cell interference coordination in mobile communication networks, particularly in small cell networks, are inefficient due to the lack of distinction between interference caused by neighboring small cells and macro cells, leading to suboptimal performance and capacity loss.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for frequency and time domain downlink inter-cell interference coordination that involves a server receiving performance metric information from small cell radios, exchanging interference information, and scheduling downlink resource transmissions based on resource allocation parameters to optimize resource allocation across almost blank and non-almost blank subframes, considering the specific interference patterns and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If downlink resource transmissions are scheduled without distinction between small cell and macro cell interference, then resource allocation is simplified, but interference coordination performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments interference coordination into two distinct modes: frequency domain ICIC for small cell interference and time domain ICIC for macro cell interference. This segmentation allows each interference type to be handled with appropriate coordination mechanisms, improving overall performance while maintaining operational clarity through mode-based management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension resource allocation approach to a two-dimensional approach by introducing time domain considerations alongside frequency domain considerations. This dimensional expansion enables differentiation between small cell and macro cell interference patterns, allowing optimized coordination strategies for each interference source.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If frequency domain ICIC is applied uniformly to all subframes, then small cell interference is reduced, but spectral efficiency deteriorates due to unnecessary restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic selection of ICIC modes based on subframe type. Frequency domain ICIC is applied selectively to non-ABS subframes where small cell interference is predominant, while ABS subframes utilize time domain ICIC. This dynamic adaptation optimizes interference reduction while preserving spectral efficiency by avoiding unnecessary frequency restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the ICIC parameter (frequency domain vs. time domain coordination) based on the subframe configuration parameter. By linking ICIC mode selection to the ABS pattern configuration, the system adapts interference coordination strategies to match the temporal characteristics of interference sources, maximizing effectiveness while minimizing resource waste.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If time domain ICIC with ABS patterns is used for macro cell interference, then macro cell interference is reduced, but network capacity deteriorates due to resource restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network operation into ABS subframes and non-ABS subframes, applying different ICIC strategies to each segment. This segmentation allows time domain ICIC to be applied only where macro cell interference is problematic (ABS subframes), while non-ABS subframes can operate with full capacity using frequency domain ICIC, thereby preserving overall network capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic ABS patterns to manage macro cell interference, where ABS subframes occur at regular intervals rather than continuously. This periodic application of time domain ICIC reduces macro cell interference when needed while maintaining network capacity during non-ABS subframes, optimizing the trade-off between interference reduction and capacity preservation.
4Reliability
If separate ICIC strategies are implemented for small cell and macro cell interference, then interference coordination performance is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal ICIC framework that handles both small cell and macro cell interference through a single system architecture. The eNodeB implements both frequency domain and time domain ICIC functions within one system, selecting the appropriate mode based on subframe type. This multi-functional approach improves interference coordination performance while avoiding the complexity of separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the eNodeB monitors interference conditions and subframe types, then adjusts ICIC mode selection accordingly. This feedback-driven approach allows the system to automatically adapt to changing interference patterns, maintaining high coordination performance while simplifying operation through rule-based decision making rather than complex manual configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An example method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving performance metric information from a plurality of small cell radios, wherein the performance metric information includes, at least in part, a number of user equipment that are to be scheduled on a first type and a second type of subframes for each small cell radio; determining resource allocation parameters for the plurality of small cell radios; exchanging interference information between two or more small cell radios of the plurality of small cell radios that includes an indication of whether a particular small cell radio is interfering with or is interfered by another small cell radio of the two or more small cell radios; and scheduling downlink resource transmissions on the first type and the second type of subframes for user equipment served by the two or more small cell radios.