Radio Network Node Transmission Mode Adaptation for Coverage Extension

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless communication networks face challenges in maintaining robust radio links, especially for Machine Type Communication (MTC) devices operating outside traditional coverage areas, leading to inefficiencies and increased resource usage due to inadequate radio coverage and unreliable control signaling.

Innovation Solution

A method implemented by a Radio Network Node (RNN) that adapts transmission modes to different Coverage Classes (CCs) to extend coverage, allowing for blind transmissions without feedback, and automatically switching to higher CCs if initial transmissions fail, ensuring reliable communication even in extreme coverage conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If the RNN transmits using a first transmission mode with a first level of coverage extension, then resource usage is reduced and battery life is conserved, but reliability deteriorates in extreme coverage conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebattery lifeVSAvoidcommunication reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts the transmission mode based on coverage conditions. The RNN switches between first transmission mode (lower coverage extension, lower energy consumption) and second transmission mode (higher coverage extension, higher reliability) according to the actual radio link quality and coverage class, making the system both energy-efficient and reliable

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the coverage extension parameter by switching between different transmission modes. When coverage conditions deteriorate, the system transitions from first level coverage extension to second level coverage extension, adjusting the transmission parameters to maintain reliability while managing energy consumption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Area of stationary object

If the RNN expands the RAN infrastructure to improve radio coverage, then coverage area is increased, but investment effort and cost increase unreasonably

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidinvestment effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of physically expanding infrastructure, the invention changes transmission parameters by switching between different coverage classes and transmission modes. This allows the existing RAN infrastructure to serve extended coverage areas by adjusting radio resource allocation and transmission robustness levels

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The existing RAN infrastructure is made multi-functional by enabling it to operate in multiple coverage classes (first CC and second CC). The same base station can serve both normal coverage areas and extreme coverage areas by dynamically adjusting transmission modes, eliminating the need for separate infrastructure for different coverage zones

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the RNN uses a second transmission mode with a second level of coverage extension, then reliability is improved in extreme coverage conditions, but resource usage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidresource usage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects transmission modes based on actual coverage needs. The RNN monitors radio link quality and switches to second transmission mode only when coverage conditions require higher robustness, otherwise using first transmission mode to conserve resources, achieving a balance between reliability and resource efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11337083B2Radio network node and a wireless device, and methods therein

Publication Date: 2022.05.17 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

A Radio Network Node (RNN) and a method therein for providing improved robustness of a radio link between the RNN and a wireless device. The RNN and the wireless device operate in a communications network. The RNN transmits, towards the wireless device, a transmission with a first transmission mode associated with a first level of coverage extension. When a first period of time has elapsed, the RNN transmits, towards the wireless device, the transmission using a second transmission mode associated with a second level of coverage extension. The second level of coverage extension is higher than the first level of coverage extension.