Reference Signal Handler Identifier for Neighbor Relation Setup

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G wireless communication networks, the automatic neighbor relation (ANR) algorithm fails to establish correct neighbor relationships due to the inability of wireless devices to read system information from neighboring nodes with unknown Mobility Reference Signals (MRS), especially in scenarios with high gain and dynamic beamforming using massive MIMO, leading to impaired handover performance.

Innovation Solution

Transmitting an identifier of a reference signal handler, such as an MRS handler, along with periodic MRS transmissions, using the same beamforming parameters to ensure identical coverage, allowing nodes to identify the origin of MRS and enabling efficient automatic neighbor relation setup.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If beamforming with massive MIMO is used to enhance signal strength and coverage, then connection throughput and coverage are improved, but the ability of wireless devices to read system information from neighboring nodes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal strengthVSAvoidsystem information readability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the reference signal transmission by introducing a specific reference signal (RS) with a unique identifier that is separately transmittable from the main system information. This allows the wireless device to first acquire the reference signal and its identifier, then use this identifier to request and acquire the system information from the correct neighboring node, thereby solving the problem of unreadable system information in massive MIMO beamforming scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the reference signal handler stores and manages the mapping between reference signal identifiers and neighboring node information. When a wireless device detects a reference signal, it can query the handler with the identifier to obtain the corresponding system information, acting as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the reference signal detection and system information acquisition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If automatic neighbor relation algorithm is used to establish neighbor relationships, then neighbor setup is automated, but the algorithm fails to establish correct relationships when MRS are unknown

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneighbor setup automationVSAvoidneighbor relationship accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the network proactively configure and transmit reference signals with unique identifiers to wireless devices before handover scenarios occur. The reference signal handler pre-stores the mapping information between identifiers and neighboring nodes. This preliminary setup enables the automated algorithm to reliably identify and establish correct neighbor relationships even when the mobility reference signals are previously unknown.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Object-affected harmful factors

If beamforming is used to suppress unwanted signals, then interference reduction is achieved, but the complexity of signal management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference from unwanted signalsVSAvoidsignal management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the reference signal handler receives requests from wireless devices containing reference signal identifiers, queries the stored mapping information, and provides feedback with the corresponding system information. This structured feedback loop simplifies signal management complexity by providing a clear query-response protocol that works effectively alongside beamforming's interference suppression capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11140590B2Handling neighbour relationships
Publication Date: 2021.10.05 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US11140590B2 patent drawing
  • US11140590B2 patent drawing
  • US11140590B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments herein relate to a method performed by a second network node for handling neighbour relationships between radio network nodes in a wireless communication network. The second network node initiates a neighbour relationship establishment process in the wireless communication network by transmitting an indication to a second radio network node or a first network node. The indication indicates the second radio network node to transmit an identifier of a reference signal handler associated with a reference signal of the second radio network node along with a transmission of the reference signal.