Frequency Selective Scheduling for M2M Resource Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LTE systems face challenges in efficiently allocating radio resources for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices, which require lower bandwidth and simpler modems, while maintaining compatibility with existing devices and minimizing impact on high-data-rate user requirements, due to limitations in existing frequency selective scheduling methods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system for frequency selective scheduling that allows user equipment (UE) to select a sub-band within a predetermined system bandwidth based on observed radio conditions and communicate this selection to the base station, which then selects a corresponding LTE resource block for communication, enabling dynamic and efficient resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a dedicated 1.4 MHz block of frequencies is allocated for M2M UEs, then the cost of UE receiver components is reduced and signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the small band quickly becomes congested and scheduling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the available spectrum into multiple 1.4 MHz sub-bands instead of using a single dedicated block. Each M2M UE can be assigned to different sub-bands dynamically, preventing congestion in any single band while maintaining the low-cost benefit of narrowband operation. The base station segments the frequency resources to serve multiple M2M devices efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic sub-band allocation where M2M UEs can be moved between different 1.4 MHz sub-bands based on current network conditions, traffic patterns, and interference levels. This dynamic assignment prevents permanent congestion in any single band and optimizes spectrum utilization over time, while UEs continue to operate in cost-effective narrowband mode.
2Productivity
If frequency selective scheduling is implemented with UE selecting sub-bands based on radio conditions, then resource allocation efficiency is improved, but scheduling and messaging overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial frequency selective scheduling where only the most critical scheduling decisions are made based on full radio condition analysis, while less critical allocations use simpler rules. The UE reports radio conditions for a subset of sub-bands or uses simplified measurement methods, reducing messaging overhead while maintaining adequate resource allocation efficiency for M2M traffic patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
M2M UEs autonomously select their preferred sub-bands based on pre-configured criteria and local radio condition measurements, then report only the selection result rather than detailed measurement data. This self-service approach allows efficient resource allocation without requiring extensive base station processing or detailed UE reporting, significantly reducing scheduling and messaging overhead.
3Quantity of substance
If LTE standards are modified to support large numbers of M2M UEs, then M2M device capacity is increased, but compatibility with existing devices and impact on high data rate requirements may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the LTE system into separate resource pools: dedicated sub-bands for M2M UEs and remaining resources for traditional high-data-rate UEs. This segmentation allows the network to support a large number of M2M devices with simplified protocols while maintaining full compatibility with existing LTE devices and their high data rate requirements, as each group operates in its designated resource space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality levels and protocol complexities to different user groups: M2M UEs operating in dedicated sub-bands use simplified modulation and coding schemes optimized for their needs, while traditional UEs access the full LTE capability set. This local quality differentiation enables support for large numbers of M2M devices without compromising the performance or compatibility of existing high-data-rate services.
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology provides a computer-implemented method and system for performing frequency selective scheduling between a user equipment (UE) and a base station. The UE selects a sub-band within a predetermined system bandwidth based on observed radio conditions. The UE then communicates the selected sub-band to the base station. The base station then selects a LTE resource block having a frequency range falling within the sub-band. The selected resource block is then used for communication between the base station and the UE. The process may be repeated at a frequency related to the channel coherence.