Licensed Shared Access Controller Spectrum Re-allocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current frequency allocation methods in cellular networks, particularly in LTE networks, face challenges in efficiently managing spectrum usage within a network, especially with the increasing demand for bandwidth and the need for dynamic re-allocation of resources to optimize spectrum usage, especially in heterogeneous network configurations.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves implementing a Licensed Shared Access (LSA) system that allows for dynamic re-allocation of spectrum between different base station types within a cellular network, using a controller and database to manage spectrum leasing and sharing, enabling efficient handover between legacy licensed LTE bands and LSA bands, and adapting Carrier Aggregation configurations to optimize UL/DL channel usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If dynamic re-allocation of spectrum is implemented, then spectrum resource utilization is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum resource utilizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

An LSA controller is introduced as an intermediary component that manages spectrum allocation decisions between base stations and spectrum resources. The controller receives spectrum availability information, determines allocation decisions, and communicates with base stations through defined interfaces, thereby centralizing complexity in a dedicated management entity rather than distributing it across all network elements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements dynamic spectrum re-allocation where base stations can request and receive spectrum bands based on real-time traffic conditions. The LSA controller continuously monitors spectrum usage and adjusts allocations dynamically, allowing the system to adapt to changing demands while maintaining structured control through defined procedures and message exchanges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If spectrum sharing between base stations is enabled, then spectrum usage efficiency is improved, but interference management becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum usage efficiencyVSAvoidinterference
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where base stations report their traffic conditions and spectrum usage to the LSA controller, which then adjusts allocations accordingly. The controller receives confirmation messages and can modify allocations based on actual performance and interference conditions, creating a closed-loop control system that actively manages interference through continuous monitoring and adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The LSA controller performs localized interference management by evaluating traffic conditions and spectrum availability for each specific base station and frequency band combination. Allocations are made on a per-band per-station basis, allowing optimized spectrum distribution that accounts for local interference conditions and traffic patterns rather than applying uniform rules across the entire network

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3085001B1License shared access in cellular network
Publication Date: 2020.05.13 APPLE INC
  • EP3085001B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3085001B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3085001B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Generally discussed herein are systems and apparatuses that are configured for using Licensed Shared Access (LSA) in a cellular network. Also discussed herein are method of using the systems and apparatuses. In one or more embodiments, an LSA control can include a processor configured to determine which licensing option of a plurality of licensing options to accept, and the LSA control can include a transceiver configured to (1) receive a first signal representative of a request for extra spectrum from a licensing Base Station (BS), and transmit a second signal representative of one or more details of the accepted licensing option to the licensee BS and an incumbent BS so as to cause the licensee BS to use the extra spectrum and cause the incumbent BS to stop using the extra spectrum in a coverage area of the licensee BS.