Network Node D2D Resource Adaptation via Interference Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current network nodes lack the ability to accurately determine and optimize the allocation of radio resources for Device-to-Device (D2D) communications, as they are unaware of the number of wireless devices in idle mode participating in D2D activities, leading to inefficient resource utilization.

Innovation Solution

The network node measures the interference level on allocated D2D radio resources and adapts the resource allocation based on this measurement, allowing for a low complexity and low overhead method to optimize spectrum efficiency by adjusting resources between D2D and cellular communications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If radio resources are allocated for D2D communications without accurate knowledge of idle device participation, then resource allocation can be performed, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilization efficiencyVSAvoidinformation about idle device participation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The network node measures interference levels on allocated D2D radio resources and uses this feedback to dynamically adapt resource allocation. The interference measurement serves as indirect feedback about actual D2D activity, allowing the network to optimize resource distribution between D2D and cellular communications based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct information gathering about idle device participation with an indirect measurement approach using interference level detection. Instead of mechanically counting devices or receiving explicit status reports, the system substitutes this with electromagnetic interference measurements that naturally reveal D2D activity levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If interference measurement is implemented to adapt resource allocation, then spectrum efficiency improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum efficiencyVSAvoidmeasurement and adaptation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network node performs self-measurement of interference levels on allocated D2D resources without requiring external assistance from wireless devices. The eNodeB autonomously monitors its own radio environment and independently adapts resource allocation, eliminating the need for complex device-side measurement and reporting mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system adapts resource allocation by changing the allocation parameters based on measured interference levels. When interference is high, the network adjusts the number of resources allocated to D2D communications downward, and vice versa, providing a simple parameter-based adaptation mechanism that avoids complex structural changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If dynamic resource adaptation is performed based on interference measurement, then resource allocation optimality improves, but processing overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation optimalityVSAvoidprocessing time for measurement and adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The network node continuously measures interference levels and maintains dynamic resource allocation without interruption to D2D or cellular services. This continuous operation allows the system to achieve optimal allocation over time while minimizing disruption, as the adaptation process runs concurrently with normal communications rather than requiring separate processing phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP3100559B1Network node, wireless device, methods therein, computer programs and computer-readable mediums comprising the computer programs, for adapting and adopting, respectively, an allocation of radio resources
Publication Date: 2020.09.16 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP3100559B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3100559B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3100559B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method performed by a network node for adapting an allocation of radio resources to at least one wireless device for D2D communications. The at least one wireless device is located in a cell served by the network node. The network node obtains a measurement of interference level on allocated D2D radio resources to the at least one wireless device. The network node also adapts the allocation of radio resources for D2D communications, based on the obtained measurement.