MBSFN Subframe Configuration Exchange via X2 Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

In current LTE systems, eNBs fail to obtain MBSFN subframe configurations from neighboring cells, leading to interference and reduced system capacity and service quality due to differing subframe configurations.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for notifying MBSFN subframe configurations through an X2 interface, where nodes send and receive subframe configurations, compare them, and set system information or RRC connection reconfiguration accordingly, enabling rational resource utilization and reducing cell interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If eNBs use different MBSFN subframe configurations to meet varying coverage requirements, then adaptability is improved, but interference between neighboring cells increases and system capacity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability of MBSFN subframe configurationVSAvoidsystem capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where eNBs exchange MBSFN subframe configuration information through the X2 interface. Each eNB sends its configured MBSFN subframe settings to neighboring eNBs, which then provide feedback when detecting conflicts. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of configurations to eliminate interference while preserving adaptability to different coverage requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The X2 interface serves as an intermediary mechanism between neighboring eNBs, facilitating the exchange of MBSFN subframe configuration information. This intermediary communication channel enables coordinated configuration management, allowing eNBs to negotiate and synchronize their settings to avoid interference while maintaining individual adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If eNBs use different MBSFN subframe configurations, then adaptability is improved, but measurement accuracy for cells deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability of MBSFN subframe configurationVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy for cell
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having eNBs proactively send their MBSFN subframe configuration information to neighboring eNBs before measurements are performed. This advance notification allows receiving eNBs to prepare appropriate measurement configurations, ensuring accurate measurements even when configuration differences exist between neighboring cells.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If eNBs exchange MBSFN subframe configuration information through X2 interface, then interference is reduced and system capacity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem capacityVSAvoidcomplexity of configuration management
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent leverages the existing X2 interface, which is a standard LTE interface already present between eNBs for other purposes. By reusing this existing communication infrastructure for MBSFN configuration exchange, the patent avoids adding new hardware or communication protocols, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity while achieving interference reduction and capacity improvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2424280B1Method and apparatus for notifying a sub frame configuration of multicast broadcast single frequency network
Publication Date: 2018.11.07 CHINA ACAD OF TELECOMM TECH
  • EP2424280B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2424280B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2424280B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a method for notifying Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) subframe configuration, which comprises the following steps: a first node sends its MBSFN subframe configuration, via an X2 interface, to a second node with which the first node is connected; the first node receives the MBSFN subframe configuration of the second node as a feedback. According to the invention, a serving cell can obtain the MBSFN subframe configurations of the neighboring cells and/or RNs, so that rational utilization of resources is achieved according to the configurations. Therefore, interference between cells is reduced, and system capacity and efficiency are improved.