SSB Pattern Scheduling for Energy-Saving 3GPP Cell Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patterns and periodicities for SSB blocks in 3GPP networks are limited, requiring a trade-off between energy saving and cell coverage, as selecting an appropriate combination of SSB pattern and periodicity sacrifices either energy savings or coverage.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow for the sequential repetition of multiple patterns with combined periodicities for synchronization signal and broadcast channel blocks, enabling dynamic adjustment based on network load and user equipment requests to optimize energy savings without compromising coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single SSB pattern and periodicity is used, then the system operation is simple, but energy saving and coverage cannot be optimized simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic SSB pattern selection by configuring multiple patterns with different periodicities (e.g., first pattern with 20ms periodicity, second pattern with 40ms periodicity) and switching between them based on network conditions. This allows the system to adapt transmission behavior dynamically, using longer periodicities for energy saving when coverage requirements are met, and shorter periodicities when faster updates are needed, thereby resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the periodicity parameter of SSB transmissions by configuring multiple patterns with different periodicity values (20ms, 40ms, 80ms, 160ms). The network can select appropriate periodicity values based on coverage requirements and energy saving goals, transforming the fixed parameter into a variable one that can be optimized for different operating conditions, thus achieving both energy savings and maintained coverage.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the SSB transmission periodicity is increased to save energy, then energy consumption decreases, but coverage and signal update speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic switching between multiple SSB patterns with different periodicities. When coverage requirements are satisfied, the system uses longer periodicities (e.g., 40ms, 80ms, or 160ms) to reduce energy consumption. When coverage gaps are detected or network conditions change, the system can switch to shorter periodicities (e.g., 20ms) to ensure adequate coverage and signal reliability, thus dynamically balancing energy savings with coverage requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the SSB transmission into multiple patterns, each optimized for different scenarios. The first pattern provides frequent updates for reliability, while the second pattern provides energy-efficient transmissions for normal operation. By segmenting the transmission strategy into distinct patterns that can be selectively applied, the system achieves energy savings without compromising overall coverage reliability.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple SSB patterns with different periodicities are configured, then energy saving and coverage can be optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pattern selection where the network node configures multiple SSB patterns with different periodicities and automatically selects the appropriate pattern based on current network conditions, coverage requirements, and energy saving goals. This dynamic approach automates the complexity of managing multiple patterns, reducing the operational burden while achieving optimized energy savings and coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the network node monitors coverage quality and network conditions, then adjusts the selected SSB pattern accordingly. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically adapt to changing conditions, selecting longer periodicities when coverage is adequate and energy saving is prioritized, and shorter periodicities when coverage enhancement is needed, thereby managing the complexity of multiple patterns through intelligent automation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed which uses a first pattern for a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) having a first periodicity and a second pattern for the SSB having a second periodicity. The SSBs in the first and second periodicities are repeated sequentially with a third periodicity which is based on a combination of the first and second periodicities. A base station transmits pattern information to a user equipment (UE) that identifies at least one specific block of resources in the first periodicity and at least one different block of resources in the second periodicity in which the SSB is present.