LTE-NR PRB Scheduling for Dynamic Spectrum Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 4G and 5G networks face challenges in dynamic spectrum sharing due to limitations in LTE and NR subcarrier spacing, leading to interference and suboptimal resource utilization, particularly when legacy LTE devices need to maintain compatibility and low latency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method for simultaneous LTE and NR Physical Resource Block (PRB) scheduling within 1 ms granularity using a Virtual Baseband Unit (VBBU) facilitated by a Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) Gateway, with LTE subframes configured for Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) and additional Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS) positions to dynamically share sub-frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dynamic spectrum sharing between LTE and 5G NR is implemented, then spectrum utilization is improved, but interference between LTE and NR signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spectrum resource allocation into separate control planes for LTE and NR, allowing independent scheduling decisions. The base station divides subframes into LTE-specific, NR-specific, and shared regions, with each segment managed by dedicated resource allocators that prevent interference through orthogonal resource assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different subcarrier spacings and cyclic prefix lengths in different frequency regions and time slots. LTE uses 15 kHz subcarrier spacing while NR can use 30 kHz or 60 kHz in specific bands, allowing each region to operate with optimized parameters that minimize mutual interference while maximizing spectral efficiency.
2Loss of time
If simultaneous LTE and NR PRB scheduling within 1 ms granularity is implemented, then latency is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic scheduling where the base station can flexibly allocate PRBs to LTE or NR on a per-subframe basis with 1 ms granularity. The resource allocation is adjusted in real-time based on traffic demands, channel conditions, and QoS requirements, allowing the system to optimize latency performance dynamically without fixed static configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary scheduling entity in the base station that coordinates LTE and NR resource allocation. This intermediary manages the complex scheduling decisions by maintaining separate buffers and scheduling queues for both technologies, applying advanced algorithms to resolve conflicts and optimize resource distribution while presenting a unified interface to upper layers.
3Ease of operation
If legacy LTE devices maintain compatibility with dynamic spectrum sharing, then ease of operation is improved, but spectrum resource flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the base station to simultaneously support both LTE and NR protocols with unified resource management. The system can operate in multiple modes including LTE-only, NR-only, and dynamic spectrum sharing, allowing legacy LTE devices to connect without modification while 5G-capable devices can utilize NR resources. The baseband processor is configured to handle both air interface standards concurrently.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and computer software are disclosed for simultaneous Long Term Evolution (LTE) and New Radio (NR) Physical Resource Block (PRB) scheduling in a network. In one embodiment a method includes transmitting a NR synchronization signal via Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN); wherein the NR uses standard LTE subframes with Cell Reference Signal (CRS) rate-matching and additional Demodulation Reference Signal (DMRS) position; dynamically sharing a sub-frame between LTE and 5G NR; and scheduling simultaneous LIE and NR PRB within 1 ms granularity, implemented within a Virtual Baseband Unit (VBBU) facilitated via a Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) Gateway (HNG).