UE Antenna Panel Measurement Using Offset-Based Neighbor Cell Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G networks, user equipment (UE) devices perform neighbor cell measurements that consume significant power due to the need for multiple antenna panel measurements, particularly in FR2, leading to increased power consumption and potential link reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for UE with multiple antenna panels that perform power level measurements using a panel selection process and offset adjustment, allowing for reduced power consumption by estimating neighbor cell power levels based on the serving cell panel, minimizing panel switching and full measurements through an offset function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple antenna panels perform full RRM measurements on neighbor cells, then measurement precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing full RRM measurements only on a subset of neighbor cells (those potentially in the same direction as the serving cell) while using offset-based estimation for other neighbor cells. This selective approach reduces the number of full measurements needed, thereby lowering power consumption while maintaining adequate measurement precision for handover decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an offset value as an intermediary parameter that bridges the gap between serving cell measurements and neighbor cell measurements. By calculating offsets from panels that performed full measurements and applying them to panels that performed only serving cell measurements, the system obtains accurate neighbor cell RSRP estimates without requiring all panels to perform complete measurements, thus reducing power consumption.
2Measurement precision
If antenna panels switch between serving cell and neighbor cell measurements, then measurement completeness is improved, but link reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having antenna panels perform full RRM measurements on neighbor cells before switching to serve the serving cell, particularly for neighbor cells in the same direction. This advance measurement ensures that measurement completeness is achieved without compromising link reliability, as the panels are already tuned to the neighbor cell frequency when the measurement is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments neighbor cells into different directional groups relative to the serving cell. Panels are assigned to measure neighbor cells in their respective directions, and offset values are calculated and applied based on this segmentation. This allows the system to maintain measurement completeness for all neighbor cells while minimizing panel switching, as each panel focuses on a specific directional sector.
3Use of energy by moving object
If offset adjustment is applied to estimate neighbor cell power levels, then power consumption is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the accuracy of offset-based estimates and refreshing offset values when conditions change. The system compares estimated neighbor cell RSRP values with actual measurements when available, and updates offset values accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that measurement precision is maintained over time despite using power-saving offset adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the measurement strategy adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically selects between full RRM measurements and offset-based estimation based on current conditions such as mobility state, signal quality, and offset confidence levels. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain high measurement precision when needed while maximizing power savings during stable conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
A communication device for use in a cellular network is described. The device comprises a plurality of antenna panels for communication with cells in a cellular network, means for carrying out a panel selection process based on received power level for selecting a respective antenna panel among said plurality of antenna panels for each of a serving cell and a neighbor cell and means for performing measurement cycles requiring determination of respective power levels received from said serving cell and said neighbor cell. The means for performing measurement cycles are configured to, during a first type measurement cycle, measure a first received power level from said neighbor cell with the antenna panel selected for said neighbor cell and measure a second received power level from said neighbor cell with the antenna panel selected for said serving cell. The means for performing measurement cycles are further configured to, during a second type measurement cycle, measure a third power level received for said neighbor cell with the antenna panel selected for said serving cell and adjusting said third power level with an offset function of the difference between the first and second power levels, said adjusted third power level being used as the respective power level for said neighbor cell. A method implemented at the communication device is also described.