Performance Measurement Counters for Unlicensed Spectrum Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current performance measurement (PM) counters do not adequately characterize communication in unlicensed frequency bands, limiting the ability of self-organizing networks (SON) to optimize performance due to differences in behavior between licensed and unlicensed spectra, particularly in dynamic network configurations and mobile node operations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing PM counters that collect metrics indicative of communication characteristics in unlicensed frequency bands, such as congestion, resource utilization, and channel sharing, and normalizing these values over time intervals to facilitate optimization by a SON controller, enabling better deployment and operation of nodes within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current PM counters are used for licensed frequency bands, then measurement capability for licensed spectrum is maintained, but measurement precision for unlicensed frequency bands deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement system by creating separate PM counter sets for licensed and unlicensed frequency bands. Each set is tailored to capture the specific characteristics of its respective band, with unlicensed band counters measuring parameters like channel sharing, LBT performance, and coexistence metrics that are unique to unlicensed spectrum operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameters themselves by introducing new PM counters specifically designed for unlicensed bands. These counters measure different parameters (e.g., channel access success rate, LBT delay, cochannel interference levels) compared to traditional licensed band counters, enabling precise characterization of unlicensed spectrum behavior.
2Adaptability or versatility
If PM counters are implemented for unlicensed frequency bands, then optimization capability for unlicensed bands is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal PM counter framework that can handle both licensed and unlicensed frequency bands through a common architecture. The system uses a unified counter management mechanism that dynamically selects and configures appropriate counters based on the frequency band being monitored, avoiding the need for completely separate measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration of PM counters based on operational conditions. The system can enable or disable specific counters, adjust measurement intervals, and modify reporting frequencies according to the current frequency band usage and network conditions, reducing overhead when unlicensed band monitoring is not required.
3Productivity
If traditional PM counters are used without normalization, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but productivity of SON optimization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies normalization factors to PM counter values in advance, before the values are used for SON optimization decisions. By pre-calculating and storing normalization factors based on historical data and current conditions, the system prepares processed data that can be directly used for optimization without requiring complex real-time calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces normalization factors as an intermediary element between raw PM counter measurements and SON optimization algorithms. These factors act as a bridge that translates diverse unlicensed band measurements into a standardized format that can be effectively processed by optimization algorithms, improving productivity without exposing the complexity of the normalization process.
Data Source
AI summary
A node increments values of performance measurement (PM) counters to indicate characteristics of at least one unlicensed frequency band used for wireless communication during a first time interval. The node provides the values of the PM counters to a controller that is configured to aggregate the values of the PM counters for the node with values of PM counters for other nodes. A controller receives values of PM counters from a plurality of nodes to indicate characteristics of wireless communication by each of the plurality of nodes using the at least one unlicensed frequency band over the first time interval. The controller aggregates the values of the PM counters for the plurality of nodes and modifies a configuration of at least one of the plurality of nodes based on the aggregated values.