Proxy MCE Relay Node Synchronization for MBMS
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Multi-media Broadcast over a Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) environments, relay nodes are not utilized for synchronized transmission of MBMS data to user equipment due to the lack of connection between the MBMS Control Entity and relay nodes, and the DeNB associated with relay nodes lacks the capability to provide MBMS data in a synchronized manner.
Innovation Solution
A system and method are introduced where a proxy MBMS gateway and proxy MCE are connected to a DeNB, enabling synchronized transmission of MBMS data to user equipment via relay nodes by allocating resources, transmitting synchronization packets, and managing MBMS sessions, ensuring simultaneous data delivery across relay nodes and DeNBs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If relay nodes are not connected to MBMS Control Entity and DeNB lacks capability, then relay nodes cannot provide synchronized MBMS data transmission, but system complexity and connection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a proxy MCE and proxy MBMS gateway as intermediary entities at the DeNB to enable relay nodes to receive and transmit MBMS data in synchronization with eNBs. These proxy entities mediate between the MBMS data source and relay nodes, allowing relay nodes to participate in MBSFN transmissions without direct connection to the original MCE.
2Area of stationary object
If relay nodes are excluded from MBSFN transmissions, then synchronized transmission is maintained among eNBs, but coverage area and service reliability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables relay nodes to perform dual functions: maintaining their existing role in providing wireless access to UEs while simultaneously participating in MBSFN transmissions as synchronized transmitters. This multi-functionality allows relay nodes to contribute to both coverage extension and reliable synchronized MBMS data delivery.
3Reliability
If relay nodes participate in MBSFN transmissions, then coverage is extended and reliability improved, but synchronization precision and resource allocation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the proxy MCE monitors and manages synchronization status of relay nodes participating in MBSFN transmissions. The system tracks timing relationships and adjusts resource allocations based on feedback from the relay nodes to maintain precise synchronization across the extended network.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for providing Multi-media Broadcast Multicast Services (MBMS) data to user equipment in a Multi-media Broadcast over a Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) environment over relay nodes are provided. The method includes periodically evaluating a synchronization delay associated with relay nodes in an MBSFN area by a DeNB, and assigning resources to the relay nodes for communicating MBMS data. The method also includes setting a time stamp in synchronization packets based on the synchronization delay. The time stamp information may indicate a start time for synchronized transmission of the MBMS data to user equipment in the MBSFN area over an air interface. The method may further include transmitting the synchronization packets including the MBMS data and time stamp information to the relay nodes using the allocated resources such that the MBMS data is synchronously transmitted to the user equipment by the relay nodes.