Private 5G NR Networks Using Beamforming and SON

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing broadband cellular network standards, such as LTE, are not well-suited for private 5G NR networks due to their differences from the 5G NR air interface, requiring new design solutions for efficient operation in unlicensed or shared radio frequency spectrum.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of 5G NR radio access network (RAN) architecture with advanced beamforming capabilities, allowing private NR networks to operate in unlicensed and shared spectrum, and incorporating self-organizing network (SON) aspects, where base stations broadcast unique private network identifiers and use spatially different RF beams to differentiate and prioritize access to different networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If LTE network standards are used for private networks, then existing broadband cellular infrastructure can be leveraged, but the network is not well-suited for private 5G NR networks due to interface differences

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to private network requirementsVSAvoidcomplexity of network interface design

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the air interface parameters from LTE to 5G NR standards, enabling private networks to utilize the advanced capabilities of 5G technology including higher data rates, lower latency, and improved reliability while maintaining compatibility with existing 5G infrastructure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If small private network cells are densely placed, then coverage and capacity are improved, but spatial separation of adjacent service areas becomes challenging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork capacity and coverageVSAvoidinterference between adjacent cells

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces spatial dimension through 3D beamforming and spatial separation techniques, allowing adjacent private network cells to operate on the same frequency resources by directing beams in different spatial directions, thereby enabling dense cell placement while minimizing interference through vertical and angular separation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by configuring each small cell with site-specific parameters including location-dependent beamforming patterns, power settings, and spatial filters that are optimized for the specific geographic and environmental conditions of each deployment location

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If advanced beamforming capabilities are implemented, then spatial separation and resource management are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespatial separation of service areasVSAvoidcomplexity of beamforming implementation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through self-organizing network (SON) capabilities that enable base stations to automatically configure beamforming parameters, perform spatial optimization, and adapt to changing environmental conditions without manual intervention, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining advanced spatial separation capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables dense placement of small private network cells with efficient resource management and spatial separation of adjacent service areas, improving connectivity and resource utilization in private 5G NR networks.

Implementation Method 1

base stations broadcast unique private network identifiers and use spatially different RF beams to differentiate and prioritize access to different networks

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBeamforming:

Data Source

PatentUS10405263B2Private radio networks

Publication Date: 2019.09.03 VERIZON PATENT & LICENSING INC

AI summary

Systems and methods described herein utilize 5G New Radio (NR) radio access network (RAN) architecture and NR capabilities to realize private NR networks. The private NR networks can operate in unlicensed or shared radio frequency (RF) spectrum using 5G NR standards. A base station stores a private network identifier for a private NR RAN. The base station transmits the private network identifier within remaining minimum system information (RMSI) or other system information (OSI) on a shared downlink channel. The private network identifier indicates support of private network operations for the private NR RAN by the base station. The base station receives, in response to transmitting the private network identifier, an attach request from an end device that is provisioned for access to the private NR RAN.