Spectrum Broker Dynamic Allocation Wireless Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current spectrum management in wireless networks is inefficient due to static allocation rules based on outdated technology and inadequate market mechanisms, leading to underutilization of licensed spectrum, high costs for acquiring licensed spectrum, and slow innovation in network services.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for dynamically allocating available spectrum within a region using a spectrum broker system that processes spectrum demands from base stations, considering terrain information and signal propagation, to provide time-bounded access to various entities, employing Coordinated Dynamic Spectrum Access (C-DSA) and various pricing models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If static spectrum allocation rules are used, then spectrum management is simple, but spectrum utilization efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum management complexityVSAvoidspectrum utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic spectrum allocation by allowing base stations to request spectrum dynamically based on real-time traffic conditions. The spectrum broker continuously monitors network state and allocates spectrum portions to base stations as needed, transforming static allocation into a dynamic process that adapts to changing network demands, thereby improving utilization efficiency without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where base stations report their spectrum needs and usage conditions to the spectrum broker. The broker uses this feedback information to make informed allocation decisions, adjusting spectrum distribution based on actual network performance and demand patterns, which optimizes utilization while maintaining manageable system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If licensed spectrum is acquired through traditional processes, then spectrum access is secure, but acquisition cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum access securityVSAvoidspectrum acquisition time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a spectrum broker as an intermediary between spectrum owners and base stations. This broker manages the spectrum allocation process, facilitating quick and efficient spectrum distribution without requiring base stations to go through lengthy traditional licensing processes. The broker acts as a mediator that maintains secure access while dramatically reducing acquisition time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments spectrum into smaller portions that can be allocated individually to different base stations based on their specific needs. This segmentation allows for more flexible and rapid spectrum deployment compared to traditional block-based licensing, enabling faster acquisition while maintaining secure, managed access through the broker's coordination

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If spectrum is allocated statically, then allocation process is simple, but adaptability to changing network conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveallocation process complexityVSAvoidadaptability to network conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic spectrum allocation by allowing base stations to request spectrum dynamically based on real-time traffic conditions. The spectrum broker continuously monitors network state and allocates spectrum portions to base stations as needed, transforming static allocation into a dynamic process that adapts to changing network demands, thereby improving utilization efficiency without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes allocation parameters dynamically based on network conditions. The spectrum broker adjusts allocation decisions based on real-time factors such as traffic load, base station requirements, and network performance metrics. This parameter-driven adaptability allows the system to respond flexibly to changing conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall allocation architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9414235B2Method and apparatus for spectrum allocation in wireless networks
Publication Date: 2016.08.09 ALCATEL LUCENT SA
  • US9414235B2 patent drawing
  • US9414235B2 patent drawing
  • US9414235B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention includes a method and apparatus for dynamically allocating spectrum available within a region including a plurality of base stations. The method includes obtaining a plurality of spectrum demands associated with at least a portion of the base stations, each spectrum demand requesting a portion of the available spectrum, and determining a plurality of spectrum allocations satisfying at least a portion of the spectrum demands. The spectrum allocations are determined by processing the spectrum demands using network information such as base station information associated with the base stations and region information such as terrain information associated with the region. The region information may include signal propagation information.