Radio Network Node Interference Measurement via Designated Subframes

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Solution Overview

Problem

In heterogeneous radio communication networks, dynamic Time Division Duplex (TDD) configurations lead to interference between neighboring nodes, particularly eNB-to-eNB interference, which is challenging to measure accurately without coordination, impacting network performance and energy efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method for measuring eNB-to-eNB interference between radio network nodes using a designated subframe configuration, where one node sends a reference signal, allowing the other node to determine interference values without requiring significant coordination, and enabling adaptive power control to mitigate interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If dynamic TDD configuration is used to adapt to traffic dynamics, then resource utilization and energy efficiency improve, but interference between neighboring nodes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidinterference between neighboring nodes
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by configuring specific subframes in advance as designated subframes for interference measurement. The network node pre-arranges the measurement opportunities and reference signal transmissions before interference becomes a critical issue, enabling proactive interference assessment and mitigation planning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where network nodes continuously measure interference in designated subframes using reference signals, report interference levels to the network, and allow the network to adjust TDD configurations dynamically based on the measured interference conditions, creating a closed-loop system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Device complexity

If interference measurement is performed without coordination between nodes, then measurement complexity is reduced, but measurement accuracy deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoordination complexityVSAvoidinterference measurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a measurement mechanism where reference signals serve multiple purposes: they function as both downlink reference signals for normal communication and as interference measurement signals when transmitted in designated subframes. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated measurement signals and reduces coordination overhead

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling network nodes to autonomously configure and perform interference measurements in designated subframes using their own reference signals. Each node independently identifies suitable subframes, transmits reference signals, measures interference from neighboring nodes, and reports results without requiring complex real-time coordination with other nodes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If designated subframes are configured for interference measurement, then interference measurement capability is improved, but impact on HARQ timing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference measurement capabilityVSAvoidHARQ timing impact
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the TDD configuration flexible and adaptable. The network can dynamically adjust which subframes are designated for interference measurement based on current traffic conditions and HARQ timing requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the system to optimize the balance between measurement needs and communication performance in real-time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3316619B1Methods and radio network nodes for measuring interference
Publication Date: 2019.09.04 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP3316619B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3316619B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3316619B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6

AI summary

A first radio network node (110) and a method therein for measuring interference as well as a second radio network node (120) and a method therein for enabling the first radio network node to measure interference are disclosed. The first radio network node (110) obtains (201) configuration information for indicating a designated subframe in which a reference signal for measurement of the interference is to be transmitted by the second radio network node (120). The second radio network node (120) obtains (202) configuration information for configuring a designed subframe for transmission of a reference signal. The first radio network node (110) receives (205), in the designated subframe indicated by the configuration information, the reference signal transmitted by the second radio network node (120). The first radio network node (110) determines (206) a value of the interference based on the reference signal.