Multiflow Connection for Heterogeneous Network Downlink Performance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In heterogeneous networks, the downlink performance for user equipment (UEs) in the range extension area of low-power nodes (LPNs) is degraded due to weaker received signal strength from LPNs compared to macro base stations, and interference from macro base stations affects data and control channels.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multiflow connection method where UEs in the LPN range extension area receive downlink data from both the macro and LPN base stations, with the network selectively controlling to use only the macro base station for downlink data transmission when its link is stronger, and configuring the UE, macro base station, and LPN to ensure optimal data flow paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a low-power node (LPN) is deployed in a traffic hot spot within macrocell coverage, then the traffic uptake and load reduction for the macrocell is improved, but the downlink signal strength and quality for user equipment in the LPN coverage area deteriorates due to the LPN's lower transmit power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines downlink data transmission from both the macro base station and the low-power node simultaneously. The network node configures the UE to receive downlink data from multiple sources (macro BS and LPN) at the same time, merging the coverage and capacity benefits while maintaining sufficient signal quality through coordinated transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the downlink data transmission by separating the control plane and user plane functions. The macro base station handles control signaling while the LPN provides additional downlink data capacity, allowing independent optimization of each function and resolving the contradiction between coverage and capacity.
2Area of stationary object
If the cell border is extended toward the macro base station to increase LPN coverage area, then the coverage area of the LPN is improved, but the downlink performance deteriorates due to stronger interference from the macro base station in the extended region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful interference from the macro base station into a beneficial signal by having the UE receive downlink data from both the macro BS and LPN simultaneously. The previously harmful macro signal becomes a useful additional data source, transforming interference into capacity enhancement through coordinated multi-point transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite reception environment where the UE processes signals from two different sources (macro BS and LPN) simultaneously. By combining these different signal sources with complementary characteristics, the system achieves both extended coverage and maintained signal quality through diverse transmission paths.
3Reliability
If downlink data is transmitted only from the macro base station to UEs in the LPN range extension area, then the downlink signal quality is improved, but the traffic uptake and load reduction benefit of the LPN is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration where the network node adaptively determines the downlink data transmission path based on UE location and channel conditions. The system can switch between macro-only, LPN-only, or combined transmission modes, allowing optimal performance adaptation to varying conditions and maximizing both signal quality and traffic uptake.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided a method of operating a network node in a communication network, the communication network comprising a mobile device, a first base station and a second base station, the first base station having a lower transmission power than the second base station and being located within the coverage area of the second base station, the mobile device being located within an imbalanced region between the first base station and the second base station and being served by the first base station, the method in the network node comprising configuring the mobile device, the first base station and the second base station such that the mobile device transmits uplink data to the first base station, and the mobile device receives downlink data only from the second base station. Corresponding methods are provided for operating a mobile device and a second base station. A network node, mobile device and second base station are also provided that are configured to perform the respective operating methods.