Network Access Node Power Control via Stored Link Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication networks, especially with the rise of smartphones, bursty data traffic patterns lead to inefficiencies in power consumption and network operation, as traditional power control methods are not suited for non-dedicated states like Cell_FACH, resulting in wasteful battery usage and inefficient power control.
Innovation Solution
A method at network access nodes to select an initial target communication link quality by assessing stored values for user equipment, using parameter-specific change thresholds to determine relevance, allowing for dynamic power control without the need for dynamic calculations or fixed static targets, thereby optimizing power control in non-dedicated states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If user equipment operates in Cell_DCH state for bursty data traffic, then data transmission reliability is improved, but battery power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power control by continuously adjusting the initial target SIR value based on real-time network conditions (interference levels, traffic load, channel quality) rather than using a fixed static target. This allows the system to adapt power levels to actual needs, maintaining reliable communication when necessary while reducing power consumption during low-activity periods in non-dedicated states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power control parameter (initial target SIR) dynamically based on network conditions. By monitoring parameters like interference levels, traffic load, and channel quality, the system adjusts the target SIR value to optimize the balance between transmission reliability and power consumption, enabling efficient operation in both dedicated and non-dedicated states.
2Use of energy by moving object
If user equipment remains in Cell_FACH state for bursty traffic, then battery power consumption is reduced, but power control efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the power control system to self-adjust by automatically monitoring network conditions and dynamically updating the initial target SIR value without requiring manual intervention or complex signaling. The system serves itself by adapting to changing conditions in real-time, maintaining efficiency while operating in power-saving non-dedicated states like Cell_FACH.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network access node continuously monitors network conditions (interference, traffic load, channel quality) and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the initial target SIR value. This closed-loop approach ensures power control efficiency is maintained even in non-dedicated states by responding to actual network conditions rather than relying on static configurations.
3Device complexity
If fixed static target SIR values are used for power control, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing network conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static power control system into a dynamic one by continuously adjusting the initial target SIR value based on real-time network conditions. The system monitors parameters such as interference levels, traffic load, and channel quality, and automatically updates the target SIR to match current conditions, providing adaptability without requiring complex manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary assessment of network conditions to determine the appropriate initial target SIR value before actual data transmission begins. By evaluating interference levels, traffic load, and channel quality in advance, the system can set an optimized target SIR that adapts to current conditions while maintaining relatively simple system architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of selecting, at a network access node, an indication of initial target communication link quality in respect of a communication link between user equipment and the network access node in a wireless communication network. The target is to be used to implement a user equipment transmit power control method. The method of selecting comprises: receiving a request to establish a communication link between user equipment and the network access node; determining whether there is a stored indication of initial target communication link quality to be used to implement a user equipment transmit power control method between the user equipment and the network access node; and, if so, assessing the relevance of the stored indication by comparing at least one parameter indicative of network condition experienced by the user equipment upon storage of the stored indication and at least one parameter indicative of ambient condition being experienced by the user equipment against a parameter-specific change threshold, and if the comparison reveals a change within said parameter-specific change threshold, selecting the stored indication of initial target communication link quality to implement a user equipment transmit power control method. Also described are a network control node and computer program product to perform such a method. Aspects recognise that despite the bursty nature of eFACH transmissions, those transmissions may be used by a network access node, for example, a Node B or base station, in order to calculate, select or determine an appropriate initial SIR target for outer loop power control purposes, and that initial target may be used to implement inner loop power control techniques.