MAC Layer RNTP Generation for Inter-Cell Interference Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
In LTE systems, the accuracy of resource allocation is negatively affected due to the difficulty in measuring and reporting the Energy Per Resource Element (EPRE) by the physical layer, leading to inaccurate generation of Relative Narrowband Tx Power (RNTP) information, which impacts inter-cell interference coordination.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for processing Inter-cell Interference Coordination (ICIC) information by determining the quantity of Resource Blocks (RBs) occupied by cell edge users, setting corresponding bits in interference coordination information, and arranging them based on a predetermined extension sequence, allowing for accurate resource allocation and reduced inter-cell interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the physical layer measures and reports EPRE to generate RNTP information, then the RNTP information can be generated according to current protocols, but the accuracy of resource allocation is negatively affected due to difficulty in accurate measurement and reporting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the MAC layer acts as a mediator between the physical layer measurements and the final RNTP information generation. Instead of directly using physical layer EPRE measurements, the MAC layer receives resource allocation information from the scheduler and independently generates RNTP information based on actual resource block allocation patterns. This intermediary approach eliminates the accumulation of measurement and reporting errors that would otherwise directly affect RNTP accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional generation approach by not deriving RNTP from EPRE measurements upward, but instead generating RNTP information downward from MAC layer resource allocation decisions. Rather than measuring EPRE at the physical layer and computing RNTP, the system determines resource block allocations at the MAC layer and directly translates these allocations into RNTP information, fundamentally reversing the information flow direction to eliminate measurement dependency.
2Ease of manufacture
If static ICIC is used for inter-cell interference coordination, then resource allocation can be simplified, but the system becomes too restrictive on resource and has large influence on performances such as frequency selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic ICIC by enabling base stations to exchange RNTP information in real-time through the X2 interface, allowing resource allocation strategies to adapt dynamically to changing interference conditions. Unlike static ICIC with fixed resource partitions, this approach continuously updates resource allocation decisions based on current neighbor cell interference levels, providing both implementation simplicity through standardized protocols and adaptability to dynamic network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the key parameter from static frequency resource partitions to dynamic power level adjustments. By transmitting RNTP information that indicates relative narrowband transmit power levels across different resource blocks, the system allows flexible parameter changes in resource allocation without requiring complex reconfiguration, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic ICIC is used for inter-cell interference coordination, then resource allocation flexibility is improved, but there is large overhead for signalling and long delay in the signalling interaction among base stations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic ICIC information exchange where base stations transmit RNTP information at regular intervals through the X2 interface rather than continuously. This periodic action reduces signalling overhead and delay compared to continuous dynamic ICIC, while still maintaining sufficient adaptability by updating resource allocation strategies at optimized intervals based on network conditions and traffic patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by selectively transmitting RNTP information only for resource blocks where interference coordination is needed, rather than continuously exchanging complete resource allocation information. This approach achieves adequate adaptability for resource allocation flexibility while significantly reducing signalling overhead and processing delay.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure discloses a method and an apparatus for processing Inter-cell Interference Coordination (ICIC) information. The method comprises: determining the quantity of the Resource Block (RB) occupied by cell edge user of a cell in the predetermined time interval; setting the value of the bits of the same quantity in the interference coordination information of the cell to 1; arranging the bits with the value of 1 on the bandwidth according to a predetermined extension sequence based on the range of the dedicated resource for the cell edge user of the cell; and sending the interference coordination information from the cell to the neighbour cell. The disclosure improves the accuracy of resource allocation for a base station.