Uplink Inter-Cell Interference Reduction via UE Priority Lists
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Intercell Interference Coordination (ICIC) methods in cellular communications networks do not effectively account for UEs with weak signal strength and do not consider the interference level caused to neighboring cells by cell-edge UEs, leading to incomplete mitigation of uplink inter-cell interference (ICI).
Innovation Solution
A method that identifies and prioritizes UEs based on signal strength and interference levels, combining susceptible and interfering UEs into a priority list for frequency resource reservation or allocation, specifically addressing UEs with weak signal strengths and those causing interference to neighboring cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional ICIC methods are used to reduce inter-cell interference, then interference in cell-edge regions is reduced, but UEs with weak signal strength and their impact on neighboring cells are not adequately considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interference mitigation process into two distinct identification phases: first identifying UEs susceptible to interference (ISUs) in the serving cell, and second identifying UEs causing interference (ICUs) to neighboring cells. This segmentation allows for more precise and targeted resource allocation strategies for each category of UEs, improving overall interference management accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a priority list mechanism that dynamically changes resource allocation parameters based on UE characteristics. By creating different priority levels for ISUs and ICUs and allocating frequency resources accordingly, the system adapts resource distribution to match actual interference conditions and UE needs, thereby improving measurement precision in interference assessment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If frequency resources are allocated without considering UE signal strength and interference impact, then resource allocation is simple, but uplink ICI is not effectively reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by identifying and categorizing UEs into ISUs and ICUs before actual resource allocation occurs. The base station creates priority lists in advance based on signal strength measurements and interference assessments, allowing for systematic and organized resource distribution that reduces ICI while maintaining manageable complexity through structured preprocessing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the base station continuously monitors UE signal strength and interference levels, updates the priority lists accordingly, and adjusts frequency resource allocation in subsequent scheduling decisions. This closed-loop feedback system enables dynamic adaptation to changing network conditions while maintaining a structured approach to resource management.
3Reliability
If all UEs are treated equally in resource allocation, then allocation process is straightforward, but UEs with weak signal strength suffer from interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by treating different UE categories differently based on their specific characteristics. ISUs (weak signal UEs) receive preferential treatment in frequency resource allocation to ensure their communication reliability, while ICUs (high interference UEs) have their resource usage restricted to protect neighboring cells. This differentiated local approach improves reliability for vulnerable UEs without requiring complete system redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a method of reducing uplink inter-cell interference in a cellular communications network. The method comprises identifying in a cell any user equipments (UEs) which are susceptible to interference (ISUs) from another UE, particularly another UE in a neighboring cell. The method includes identifying in said cell any UEs causing interference (ICUs) to at least one neighboring cell and, more particularly, causing interference to a UE in a neighboring cell. The identified ISUs and ICUs are combined into a priority list for frequency resource reservation or allocation in said cell. The method may include limiting the identification of ISUs and ICUs to a selected number of UEs within the cell.