Radio Interface-Based Synchronization Stratum Level Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, especially in LTE networks, small cells face challenges in inter-cell synchronization due to increased hops in multi-hop synchronization, leading to reduced synchronization accuracy and potential failure in synchronizing with macro cells.
Innovation Solution
Defining a maximum stratum level for radio interface-based synchronization (RIBS) and transmitting this level between evolved NodeBs (eNBs) and small cells, allowing small cells to estimate the required SINR threshold for accurate synchronization with macro cells, thereby ensuring efficient synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multi-hop synchronization is used to extend coverage, then the coverage area is improved, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a maximum stratum level as an intermediary parameter that mediates between coverage extension and synchronization accuracy. By defining and transmitting this maximum level through backhaul signaling, the system allows multi-hop synchronization to extend coverage while preventing accuracy degradation by limiting the stratum level propagation.
2Measurement precision
If maximum stratum level is defined and transmitted, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing a specific parameter (maximum stratum level) that can be configured and transmitted. This parameter change enables the system to control synchronization behavior without fundamentally changing the device architecture, thus improving accuracy while minimizing complexity increase.
3Area of stationary object
If small cells synchronize through multiple hops, then network coverage is expanded, but reliability of synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by defining the maximum stratum level before synchronization occurs and transmitting it in advance through backhaul signaling. This preliminary configuration ensures that synchronization reliability is maintained from the outset, preventing degradation that would otherwise occur in multi-hop scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method and an apparatus for transmitting a maximum stratum level in a wireless communication system. An evolved NodeB (eNB) or a home eNB (HeNB) having a global positioning system (GPS) constitutes a maximum stratum level indicating a maximum value of a hop capable of supporting radio interface based synchronization (RIBS) and transmits the constituted maximum stratum level to a small cell. Meanwhile, the small cell determines whether a stratum level is greater than the maximum stratum level, and transmits the maximum stratum level to the eNB or the HeNB having the GPS when the stratum level is greater than the maximum stratum level.