Dynamic Shared Spectrum Allocation for LTE and GERAN Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating LTE with GERAN networks poses challenges due to potential degradation in spectral efficiency when both systems are allocated dedicated spectrum, leading to reduced capacity and service quality, especially when LTE is introduced with insufficient UE penetration or limited frequency spectrum.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to estimate network load and dynamically adjust bandwidth frequency allocation using a shared spectrum approach, where the bandwidth is divided into portions allocated to GERAN and LTE based on decision criteria, such as traffic priority and system load, to maximize inter-system capacity and maintain service quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated spectrum is allocated to both LTE and GERAN systems, then each system can operate independently with stable performance, but spectral efficiency degrades and overall network capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spectrum allocation mechanisms of LTE and GERAN systems by introducing a shared spectrum pool that both systems can access. The network controller dynamically allocates resources from this shared pool to either LTE or GERAN based on real-time traffic conditions, eliminating the need for completely separate dedicated spectra while maintaining independent operation stability through coordinated resource management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic spectrum allocation where the network controller continuously monitors traffic load and adjusts the spectrum distribution between LTE and GERAN in real-time. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing conditions, allocating more spectrum to the system with higher traffic demand while maintaining minimum guarantees for both systems, thereby maximizing overall spectral efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If LTE is introduced with insufficient UE penetration, then network infrastructure can be deployed early, but dedicated spectrum allocation leads to reduced capacity and service quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal spectrum resource pool that serves multiple purposes and multiple systems. The shared spectrum can be allocated to LTE when UE penetration is high, to GERAN when LTE traffic is light, or distributed between both systems simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows early LTE deployment with flexible capacity adjustment based on actual usage patterns rather than fixed dedicated allocations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the allocation parameter from fixed dedicated spectrum to dynamic shared spectrum with adjustable distribution ratios. The network controller modifies the spectrum allocation parameters based on UE penetration rates, traffic patterns, and service quality requirements, allowing the system to optimize capacity utilization at different deployment stages without requiring separate dedicated spectra for each scenario.
3Quantity of substance
If limited frequency spectrum is available, then spectrum resources are constrained, but traditional dedicated allocation reduces the ability to maximize inter-system capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service spectrum allocation mechanism where the network controller automatically monitors the traffic needs of both LTE and GERAN systems and reallocates spectrum resources from the shared pool without external intervention. This self-adjusting system ensures that the limited available spectrum is continuously optimized for maximum inter-system capacity by allocating resources to whichever system has higher immediate demand while maintaining minimum service levels for both.
Data Source
AI summary
In one exemplary embodiment, a method includes: estimating network load for at least one region of a network using a load measurement method (201 ); using a decision criteria and the estimated network load, determining whether a bandwidth frequency allocation of a dedicated shared bandwidth for the at least one region should be modified, wherein the dedicated shared bandwidth includes bandwidth used by a plurality of systems of the network (202); and in response to determining that the bandwidth frequency allocation should be modified, modifying the bandwidth frequency allocation of the at least one region (203). In another exemplary embodiment, a method includes: providing a dedicated bandwidth to be allocated among a plurality of systems of a network including a first system and a second system; and allocating the dedicated bandwidth such that it includes a first allocation for the first system, a second allocation for the second system and a shared portion.