Relay Node Subframe Allocation for Wireless Transmission Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing management of relay nodes in wireless communication networks is inefficient due to the time-consuming process of reallocating subframes between access and backhaul links, leading to delayed resource utilization and potential performance deterioration, especially when there are variations in radio link quality.
Innovation Solution
A method where relay nodes and base stations dynamically adjust the allocation of subframes based on priority settings and opportunistic scheduling, allowing for quick reallocation of transmission resources without significant complexity, using existing signaling standards and minimizing delays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the controlling node reconfigures the MBSFN allocation for relay nodes, then the resource allocation between access link and backhaul link can be optimized, but the reconfiguration process takes several seconds which leads to delayed resource utilization and inefficient productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple MBSFN subframe patterns (first pattern with more uplink subframes, second pattern with more downlink subframes) before runtime. When radio link conditions change, the relay node can switch between pre-configured patterns using fast signaling (MAC CE or RRC reconfiguration) rather than performing full reconfiguration, thereby achieving rapid resource reallocation while maintaining adaptability to different link quality scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the relay node to dynamically switch between different MBSFN subframe patterns based on real-time radio link quality measurements. The system transitions from static pre-configured patterns to dynamic pattern selection through fast signaling mechanisms, allowing the resource allocation to adapt quickly to changing channel conditions without the delays of traditional reconfiguration
2Reliability
If the uplink and downlink configurations for the backhaul link are made to match, then HARQ ACK/NACK reporting can be ensured, but this constraint limits the flexibility to allocate more subframes to the access link when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the configuration management into two independent parts: downlink MBSFN subframe configuration and uplink subframe configuration. This allows the downlink pattern to be optimized for backhaul reliability (maintaining HARQ reporting) while the uplink pattern can be independently optimized for access link performance, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and flexibility through decoupled configuration control
3Reliability
If time synchronization is added to coordinate reconfiguration between relay and donor base station, then communication reliability is maintained, but further delays are added to the reconfiguration procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-synchronizing the relay node and donor base station before reconfiguration events. Time synchronization parameters are established in advance, allowing the nodes to coordinate pattern switching without real-time negotiation delays. This pre-established synchronization enables rapid switching between MBSFN patterns while maintaining communication reliability
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a relay node includes receiving information, at the relay node, information identifying a plurality of subframes. The subframes represent time periods during which a base station may grant the relay node permission to transmit to the base station on a first frequency. The method also involves selecting one of the identified subframes to be used for a transmission between the relay node and a wireless terminal on the first frequency and transmits to the wireless terminal a scheduling grant granting the wireless terminal permission to transmit information on the first frequency during the selected subframe.