Multi-subframe Scheduling Mechanism for LTE Base Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
In small cell base station deployments, there is a challenge with interferences among base stations and inefficient signaling overheads due to the lack of a mechanism for multi-subframe scheduling in current LTE-advanced standards, which affects resource allocation and mobility management.
Innovation Solution
A multi-subframe scheduling mechanism is introduced, where a bit sequence, known as the multi-subframe scheduling activated pattern, is used to indicate which subframes are valid for multi-subframe DCI messages, allowing scheduling information to be applied across multiple consecutive subframes, reducing control signaling overhead and enhancing interference coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a DCI message schedules resources for each individual subframe, then resource allocation accuracy is improved, but control signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scheduling function across multiple subframes by allowing a single DCI message to schedule resources for multiple consecutive subframes. This is achieved by introducing a multi-subframe scheduling indicator that enables the UE to understand that the DCI applies to a bundle of subframes rather than just one, thereby combining what would otherwise require multiple separate DCI messages into a single signaling event.
Solution Approach 2:
The DCI message is enhanced to serve multiple functions: it not only schedules resources for the current subframe but also for future subframes. The multi-subframe scheduling indicator transforms the DCI from a single-subframe scheduling tool into a multi-subframe scheduling tool, giving it universal applicability across multiple time instances.
2Device complexity
If small cell base stations operate without adequate power controls and resource planning, then device complexity is reduced, but interference among base stations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having base stations exchange scheduling information and coordination data before actual data transmission occurs. The multi-subframe scheduling mechanism allows base stations to plan and coordinate resource allocation in advance across multiple subframes, enabling proactive interference management rather than reactive adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where base stations share scheduling decisions and interference measurements with neighboring base stations. This feedback loop enables coordinated resource allocation across the small cell network, allowing each base station to adjust its transmissions based on information received from others, thereby reducing mutual interference.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure proposes a base station and a user equipment which utilize a multi-subframe scheduling mechanism. The multi-subframe scheduling mechanism includes at least but not limited to the base station transmitting via a transmitter a first subframe which includes a first control channel. Upon receiving the first subframe via a receiver, the UE would decode a first control information from the first control channel. The UE would decode from the first control information a first transmission resource located in the first subframe and then determine whether the first control information indicates a second transmission resource located in a second subframe based on a bit from a bit sequence, wherein the bit corresponds to the first subframe. The UE would receive via the receiver the second transmission resource located in the second subframe if the bit of the bit sequence is in a first state.