RAN Interference Detection via Spectrum Pattern Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current uplink interference detection systems in telecommunications networks suffer from high false alarm rates for external interference, leading to inaccurate interference localization and increased costs for field teams. Additionally, there is a need to detect passive intermodulation interference (PIM) caused by nonlinear device interactions, which affects signal quality and network performance.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a Radio Access Network (RAN) application deployed across RAN Intelligent Controllers (RICs) to detect and identify external interference and PIM. This involves analyzing patterns of spectrum interference, comparing them to signature patterns for internal and external interference, and generating alerts for operators when external interference is detected. The method also includes filtering operations to distinguish between signal inconsistencies and load-based interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional interference detection methods are used, then interference can be detected, but false alarm rates are high
Solution Approach 1:
The interference detection process is segmented into multiple independent filtering stages: first filtering operation detects signal inconsistency between antenna branches, second filtering operation detects load-based interference. Each stage independently processes specific aspects of interference, collectively reducing false alarms while maintaining detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate analysis steps between raw interference detection and final classification. Spectrum interference pattern analysis serves as an intermediary that compares detected interference against known signatures, acting as a mediator to distinguish true external interference from false alarm sources.
2Reliability
If field teams perform jammer identification and removal, then interference can be eliminated, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis through automated interference detection and classification. By using algorithmic analysis of spectrum patterns and correlation with traffic load, the system identifies external interference sources without requiring human field teams, enabling self-service interference elimination that reduces operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical field operations with automated electronic detection systems. The rApp deployed on RIC uses software-based spectrum analysis and pattern recognition to substitute for physical field team interventions, eliminating the need for costly on-site jammer identification and removal.
3Reliability
If PIM interference is detected, then signal quality can be improved, but detection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same filtering and analysis infrastructure used for general interference detection is also applied to PIM interference detection. The first and second filtering operations, along with spectrum pattern analysis, serve multiple functions including detecting both conventional interference and PIM-specific patterns, reducing overall system complexity through multi-functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of the invention provide a method for an interference detection RAN application deployed across one or more RICs for detecting and identifying external interference in a RAN that includes multiple RAN base stations servicing users located across multiple regions, each region including at least one RAN base station. The method is performed for a particular region serviced by a particular RAN base station. The method detects an interference incident associated with the particular region. The method analyzes a pattern of spectrum interference associated with the particular region. Based on said analysis, the method determines whether the pattern of spectrum interference matches a first signature pattern associated with internal interference or a second signature pattern associated with external interference. When the pattern of spectrum interference matches the second signature pattern, the method generates an alert to notify an operator of the particular RAN base station of the external interference.