TDD Interference Identification via IOI Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

In mobile networks using time division duplex (TDD) configurations, interference issues arise due to differing uplink and downlink configurations between neighboring cells, leading to inefficient radio resource utilization and degraded system performance, especially near cell edges.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of an interference type field in the interference overload indicator (IOI) information element and dynamic TDD UL/DL configuration exchange between eNBs to identify and mitigate eNB-to-eNB and UE-to-UE interference by adjusting transmit power and scheduling, allowing for faster and more flexible resource allocation based on traffic conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If TDD configurations are used to increase flexibility in uplink and downlink allocations, then adaptability to traffic conditions is improved, but interference between neighboring cells with different configurations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in uplink and downlink allocationsVSAvoidinterference between neighboring cells
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where eNBs exchange interference overload indicators (IOI) and TDD configuration information with neighboring cells. This feedback loop enables dynamic adjustment of TDD configurations and transmit power levels to mitigate interference while maintaining flexibility. The IOI feedback specifically provides real-time information about interference conditions, allowing eNBs to adapt their configurations accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary information exchange mechanism between eNBs, where TDD configuration data and interference indicators are transmitted as intermediary signals. This intermediary communication layer (via X2 interface) allows neighboring cells to coordinate their configurations and identify potential interference scenarios before they degrade system performance, enabling proactive interference management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If interference mitigation techniques are implemented to reduce interference, then system performance is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem performanceVSAvoidcomplexity of interference management
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the interference management process into distinct functional components: TDD configuration determination, interference measurement, IOI generation, and mitigation action. By dividing the complex interference management task into these manageable segments, the system can address each aspect separately through standardized procedures, reducing overall complexity while maintaining effective interference mitigation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting TDD configuration parameters (uplink-downlink subframe assignments) and transmit power levels based on measured interference conditions. Instead of implementing complex interference cancellation algorithms, the system achieves mitigation through relatively simple parameter adjustments, thereby improving system performance without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If dynamic TDD configuration changes are made to adapt to traffic conditions, then resource utilization is improved, but interference identification and mitigation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradio resource utilizationVSAvoidtime for interference identification and mitigation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by having eNBs proactively exchange TDD configuration information and identify potential interference scenarios before actual interference occurs. The interference measurement and IOI reporting mechanisms are continuously active, allowing the system to detect and respond to interference conditions in advance, thereby reducing the time required for interference mitigation while maintaining high resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2936711B1Method and apparatus for identifying interference type in time division duplex systems
Publication Date: 2018.04.18 BLACKBERRY LTD
  • EP2936711B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2936711B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2936711B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Methods and apparatus at an evolved Node B (eNB) and user equipment (UE) in cells operating in time division duplex with a first configuration and having a neighbor cell eNB operating in time division duplex with a second configuration, the methods and apparatus: identifying potential eNB-to-eNB; UE-to-UE; eNB-to-UE; and UE-to-eNB interference. Further methods and apparatus to report interference including enumerated interference types to neighbor cell eNBs. Further, methods and apparatus for interference mitigation.