UE Measurement Subframe Selection for Small Cell Detection

The patent segments the measurement process into two distinct phases: first, the UE performs initial cell detection using discovery signals (which are transmitted continuously and are not affected by small cell interference); second, the UE performs measurement using cell-specific reference signals (CRS) only after successfully detecting the small cell. This segmentation allows the UE to distinguish between different types of signals and perform measurements accurately even in densely deployed small cell environments.

The patent applies preliminary action by having the UE first detect discovery signals from potential small cells before attempting to measure their CRS. The discovery signal serves as a preliminary indicator that allows the UE to identify and prepare for measurement of small cells that would otherwise be obscured by interference. This preliminary detection step enables the UE to anticipate and properly configure measurements for densely deployed small cells.

The patent segments the measurement process into two phases: initial detection using discovery signals and subsequent measurement using CRS. By separating these functions, the UE can quickly identify small cells through discovery signals without being delayed by interference, and only performs time-consuming CRS measurements after successful detection, thereby reducing overall measurement time in densely deployed networks.

The discovery signal acts as an intermediary that facilitates the measurement process. Instead of directly measuring CRS which are obscured by interference in densely deployed small cells, the UE first uses discovery signals as an intermediary to detect and identify small cells. This intermediary approach allows the UE to quickly locate small cells without being hindered by overlapping signals, thereby reducing measurement time.

The patent segments the measurement procedure into two distinct steps: first, detect discovery signals to identify potential small cells; second, perform CRS measurement only for successfully detected cells. This segmentation maintains relative simplicity while significantly improving reliability, as the UE only attempts CRS measurements for cells that have been preliminarily identified through discovery signals, avoiding wasted effort on undetectable cells.

The patent applies preliminary action by having the UE first detect discovery signals before attempting CRS measurement. This preliminary detection step filters out cells that would be undetectable due to interference, ensuring that subsequent CRS measurements are performed only on cells that can be reliably detected. This approach maintains procedural simplicity while dramatically improving detection capability and measurement reliability in densely deployed environments.