Macro Node Handover for Interference Mitigation in Heterogeneous Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless heterogeneous networks, closed access operating mode (CAOM) low power nodes (LPNs) cause interference with non-member user equipment (UEs), leading to reduced link quality and service outages, especially since legacy UEs lack interference cancellation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A macro node determines trigger conditions such as unacceptable interference and directs a handover of the UE to a CAOM LPN, signaling the LPN to provide temporary service, and changes its operating mode from CAOM to hybrid access mode if necessary, allowing the UE to connect and mitigate interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If CAOM LPN transmits CRS to provide service to member UEs, then service quality for member UEs is improved, but interference to non-member UEs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The macro node performs preliminary assessment of interference conditions by evaluating RSRP values and link quality indicators before triggering handover. This preliminary action allows the system to proactively manage interference by identifying non-member UEs affected by CAOM LPN transmissions and initiating handover before service degradation occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The macro node acts as an intermediary between the CAOM LPN and non-member UEs. It receives interference information from UEs, assesses the situation, and coordinates handover decisions. The macro node mediates the interaction by controlling when UEs should handover to CAOM LPNs based on interference conditions, thus protecting non-member UEs from harmful interference while enabling service for member UEs
2Object-affected harmful factors
If interference cancellation capabilities are added to UEs, then interference mitigation is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring complex interference cancellation capabilities in UEs, the system enables self-service through network-controlled handover. The macro node autonomously assesses interference conditions using RSRP measurements and link quality indicators, then triggers handover decisions. This shifts the interference management burden from the UE to the network infrastructure, allowing legacy UEs to benefit from interference mitigation without additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary interference assessment through RSRP measurements and link quality evaluations before handover is triggered. This preliminary action allows the network to identify and mitigate interference issues proactively, preventing service degradation before it occurs and eliminating the need for complex real-time interference cancellation in UEs
3Object-affected harmful factors
If handover to CAOM LPN is triggered for non-member UE, then interference is reduced, but access control restrictions are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The CAOM LPN dynamically adjusts its access control policy based on real-time interference conditions. When the macro node triggers handover due to unacceptable interference, the CAOM LPN temporarily modifies its access restrictions to allow the non-member UE to connect. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to balance access control requirements with interference management needs, allowing flexible policy adjustment without permanent violation of CAOM restrictions
Data Source
AI summary
Mechanisms for managing interference in heterogeneous networks are disclosed. A macro node triggers a handover of a user equipment (UE) being serviced by the macro node to a low power node (LPN) operating in a closed access operating mode wherein the LPN provides service to member UEs. The UE is a non-member of the LPN. The macro node determines a trigger condition, and based on the trigger condition signals the LPN to provide service to the UE. The macro node also directs the UE to execute the handover to the LPN.