Spectrum Access System Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spectrum allocation methods in wireless communication networks, which use fixed-width allocations, lead to inefficient resource utilization as they do not account for varying network loads or expected usage, potentially resulting in under-loaded or over-loaded networks, and can prevent dynamic spectrum sharing between different network types like 4G/LTE and 5G/NR due to incompatible raster alignments.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dynamic bandwidth allocation system where a Spectrum Access System (SAS) entity allocates radio spectrum based on current and expected load, geographical locations, and network operator priorities, and allowing network operators to indicate their expected operations, such as exclusive use of 4G/LTE, 5G/NR, or dynamic spectrum sharing, to ensure compatible raster alignments for efficient spectrum utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed-width spectrum allocation is used, then network operator priorities are maintained, but spectrum utilization efficiency deteriorates due to under-loaded or over-loaded networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic spectrum allocation where the SAS entity adjusts spectrum bandwidth allocations in real-time based on current network load conditions and operator priorities. The system transitions from static fixed-width allocations to dynamic allocations that adapt to changing network conditions, allowing operators to receive more spectrum when their networks are under-loaded and less when over-loaded, thereby improving overall spectrum utilization efficiency while maintaining priority-based allocation principles
2Device complexity
If fixed-width spectrum allocation is used, then allocation simplicity is maintained, but resource efficiency deteriorates due to inability to adapt to varying network loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces dynamic allocation mechanisms that automatically adjust spectrum bandwidth based on real-time network load measurements and operator priority levels. The SAS entity continuously monitors network conditions and reallocates spectrum resources accordingly, transforming the simple but static fixed-width allocation system into a dynamic system that maintains operational simplicity while dramatically improving resource utilization efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the SAS entity receives network load information from operators, processes this information against stored priority rules, and adjusts spectrum allocations accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically adapt to varying network conditions without manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between allocation simplicity and resource efficiency
3Speed
If fixed-width spectrum allocation is used, then allocation speed is maintained, but adaptability to network conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables rapid adaptation to changing network conditions through automated dynamic allocation. The SAS entity continuously monitors network load and can reallocate spectrum bandwidth in real-time based on current conditions and operator priorities, allowing the system to quickly respond to network changes while maintaining fast allocation speeds through automated decision-making processes
4Productivity
If dynamic bandwidth allocation is implemented, then spectrum utilization efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to load monitoring and dynamic adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the SAS entity autonomously monitors network load conditions and automatically adjusts spectrum allocations based on stored operator priority rules. The system serves itself by making allocation decisions without requiring complex external control or manual intervention, thereby improving spectrum utilization efficiency while limiting complexity growth through automated self-management
5Productivity
If dynamic spectrum sharing is enabled, then network performance is improved, but raster alignment compatibility deteriorates between different network types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different raster alignments for different network types (4G/LTE and 5G/NR) within the same spectrum allocation. The system can allocate spectrum with raster configurations optimized for specific network types while maintaining overall compatibility through the SAS entity's ability to manage multiple alignment standards simultaneously, thereby enabling dynamic spectrum sharing while preserving raster alignment compatibility for each network type
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for indicating to a spectrum access system communication preferences of a base station and/or of a network operator. Different methods may be used to indicate the communication preferences, including a dedicated type parameter transmitted with spectrum allocation requests from the base station, a rule-based system where the spectrum access system accesses communication preferences of the base station and/or network operator through an identifier corresponding to a rule definition, or the like. The spectrum access system may assign a channel to the network operator based on its communication preferences, such as to determine a channel assignment to correspond to a channel aligned with a raster of communications to be used by the network operator. If the channel is not aligned, then the base station may shift a center frequency of the channel so that the channel aligns with the raster of communications.