Relay Node MBMS Service Configuration via Base Station Proxy
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Solution Overview
Problem
In current mobile communication systems, relay nodes lack support for MBMS service, leading to disrupted service coverage when users move into relay node areas, resulting in poor user experience and increased network laying costs due to the need for more base stations at higher frequencies.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that enable MBMS service implementation by configuring relay nodes to support MBMS through MBSFN Area configuration information, where a base station acts as a proxy for the relay node, receiving and sending necessary configuration information to facilitate MBMS service scheduling and data forwarding, expanding coverage without high hardware investment costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If relay nodes are introduced to increase coverage, then coverage area is improved, but relay nodes lack MBMS service support causing service disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The relay node is configured to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a coverage extension device and an MBMS service transmission node. By enabling the relay node to receive and forward MBMS service data from the donor eNB to UEs in its coverage area, the relay node becomes a universal platform that supports both coverage expansion and broadcast/multicast service delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay node serves as an intermediary between the donor eNB and UEs in its coverage area. It receives MBMS service data from the donor eNB via the Un interface and forwards it to connected UEs via the Uu interface, enabling MBMS service continuity across relay nodes while maintaining network architecture flexibility.
2Speed
If more base stations are deployed at higher frequencies, then data rate is improved, but network laying cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The relay node is nested within the existing eNB network architecture, utilizing the donor eNB's infrastructure for backhaul connectivity. This nested structure allows coverage extension without requiring fully independent base stations, reducing deployment costs while maintaining high data rates through the existing high-frequency spectrum resources.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of deploying complete new base stations, the relay node copies and reuses existing network infrastructure and spectrum resources. It shares the donor eNB's core network connection and can utilize existing backhaul links, significantly reducing the hardware and construction costs associated with traditional base station deployment.
3Area of stationary object
If relay nodes are configured for MBMS service, then service coverage is improved, but configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The relay node performs preliminary configuration actions by automatically discovering its own identity and capability information during the network setup process. The donor eNB pre-configures the relay node with necessary MBMS parameters and routing information before actual service deployment, simplifying subsequent configuration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay node provides feedback information about its coverage area, capability status, and operational state to the donor eNB and MCE. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adaptation and optimization of MBMS service configuration without requiring complex manual setup, as the system can dynamically adjust based on relay node capabilities and network conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a method and device for implementing an MBMS service when a relay node is deployed in a network. By employing the technical solution provided in embodiments of the present invention, a cell served by the relay node is used by a base station as the cell therefor, corresponding configuration information is transmitted to an MCE for registration, and a corresponding MBMS service is triggered. The base station is used as a proxy of the relay node to allow the scheduling of the MBMS service and data forwarding. Thus, the shortcoming in the prior art of the lack of support for the relay node to implement the MBMS service is obviated, and compatibility with the MBMS service is implemented on the relay node. The range of MBMS service coverage is expanded in a network via the deployment of the relay node. At the same time, on the basis of lower hardware construction investment costs, seamless support for the MBMS service is implemented throughout the network when the relay node is deployed.