Multi-PRB Paging Resource Allocation for NB-IoT Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face inefficiencies in distributing narrowband resources among UEs of different types and capabilities, leading to unequal resource allocation and suboptimal network performance in NB-IoT environments.
Innovation Solution
A base station determines and allocates different sets of narrowband resources based on the type and capability of UEs, using techniques such as weight assignment and threshold-based methods to ensure efficient distribution of anchor and non-anchor PRBs for paging and random access operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional single-PRB resource allocation is used for NB-IoT, then legacy UE compatibility is maintained, but network capacity and resource distribution efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the NB-IoT uplink bandwidth into multiple PRB groups (first PRB group and second PRB group), allowing different UE types to be allocated to different segments. This enables multi-PRB operations for advanced UEs while maintaining single-PRB compatibility for legacy UEs, thereby increasing network capacity without sacrificing compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic PRB allocation where the base station can flexibly assign UEs to different PRB groups based on their capabilities and current network conditions. The allocation is not fixed but adapts to UE type indications, enabling optimal resource distribution that improves productivity while maintaining adaptability to different UE types.
2Productivity
If uniform resource distribution is applied to all UEs, then allocation simplicity is maintained, but resource utilization efficiency for different UE capabilities deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allocating resources differently based on UE type. Advanced UEs capable of multi-PRB operations receive allocation from both first and second PRB groups, while legacy UEs receive allocation only from the first PRB group. This localized differentiation improves resource utilization efficiency without requiring complex allocation mechanisms for all UEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where UEs indicate their capability type (single-PRB or multi-PRB) to the base station, and the base station automatically selects the appropriate PRB group allocation strategy. This reduces the complexity of the allocation mechanism as UEs self-identify their requirements, allowing efficient resource utilization without manual configuration.
3Productivity
If multi-PRB operations are enabled for all UEs, then resource distribution efficiency is improved, but compatibility with legacy UEs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments PRB allocation into at least a first PRB group and a second PRB group, where the first group can serve both legacy and advanced UEs, while the second group is allocated only to advanced UEs capable of multi-PRB operations. This segmentation ensures legacy UE compatibility is maintained while improving resource distribution efficiency for advanced UEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The first PRB group serves a universal function by being allocable to both legacy UEs (single-PRB) and advanced UEs (multi-PRB), while the second PRB group provides extended functionality for advanced UEs only. This multi-functionality approach ensures broad compatibility while enabling improved resource distribution for capable devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques and apparatus for performing paging and/or random access procedures with multiple physical resource blocks (PRBs) for narrowband (NB) internet-of-things (IoT). In one aspect, a method is provided which may be performed by a base station. The method generally includes determining a first set of resources and a second set of resources available for narrowband communications with one or more first user equipments (UEs) and one or more second UEs. The method also includes allocating the first and second set of resources to one or more of the first UEs and the second UEs based at least in part on a type of the first UEs and a type of the second UEs. The method further includes signaling an indication of the allocation.