TWI894049B - Ran intelligent controller, dynamic resource block configuration method and base station with dynamic resource block configuration - Google Patents

Abstract

A Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC), a dynamic Resource Block (RB) allocation method, and a related base station. Multiple base stations (BSs) continuously receive network status information from associated multiple UEs and transmit it to the RIC. The RIC obtains network status information from multiple BSs; based on the network status information, the RIC identifies at least one first UE among multiple UEs that is experiencing interference; the RIC sets multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies corresponding to multiple BSs based on the network status information， at least one first UE, and at least one first BS; in response to receiving dynamic RB allocation strategies from the RIC, multiple BSs divide their available RBs into multiple first RB groups and a second RB group， thereby generating transmission resource allocation information corresponding to multiple UEs, enabling multiple UEs to identify their respective allocated RBs.

Description

Wireless access network intelligent controller, dynamic resource block configuration method and base station for dynamically configuring resource blocks

The present disclosure relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and more particularly to a method for dynamically allocating resource blocks, a radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) using the method, and a base station (BS) benefiting from the method.

With the widespread deployment of 5G networks and the increasing density of networks, managing inter-cell interference has become a critical issue. This has led to dynamic resource allocation becoming a key technology for improving network performance. As network complexity grows, researchers are exploring more intelligent and adaptive resource management methods. The introduction of the O-RAN (Open Radio Access Network) architecture offers new possibilities.

This disclosure provides a dynamic resource block allocation method based on the O-RAN architecture, as well as a Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC), a base station (BS), and related systems for resource management in 5G networks. The method includes: User Equipment (UE) measuring and reporting Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) values; the base station transmitting UE measurement reports and Key Performance Measurement (KPM) information to the RIC via the O-RAN standard interface; the RIC analyzing the data, determining interference conditions between multiple UEs and multiple BSs, and formulating a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy; and the RIC issuing the strategy to the base station for execution. This disclosure effectively reduces interference between base stations and improves spectrum utilization by dividing the spectrum into interference zones and non-interference zones and dynamically adjusting their ratio based on network load.

One or more embodiments disclosed herein provide a Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC), applicable to a wireless communication system, wherein the RIC comprises: a communication circuit unit, wherein the RIC is communicatively connected to a plurality of base stations (BSs) of the wireless communication system through the communication circuit unit, wherein the plurality of BSs are communicatively connected to a plurality of UEs; and a processor. The processor is configured to execute a plurality of code modules to: obtain a plurality of network status information corresponding to the plurality of UEs from the plurality of BSs; identify at least one first UE among the plurality of UEs that is interfered with based on the plurality of network status information; and set a plurality of dynamic resource blocks (RBs) corresponding to the plurality of BSs based on the plurality of network status information, the at least one first UE, and the at least one first BS. The invention relates to a method for implementing a dynamic RB allocation strategy to divide a plurality of RBs available to each BS into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group, wherein the plurality of dynamic RB allocation strategies indicate that: the plurality of first RBs of the plurality of first RB groups are used to be provided to the at least one first UE, and the plurality of second RBs of the second RB group are used to be provided to a second UE other than the at least one first UE among the plurality of UEs; the plurality of dynamic RB allocation strategies are transmitted to the corresponding plurality of BSs; and in response to a dynamic adjustment condition being triggered, the network status information is reacquired to update the plurality of dynamic RB allocation strategies, and the updated plurality of dynamic RB allocation strategies are transmitted to the corresponding plurality of BSs.

One or more embodiments disclosed herein provide a dynamic resource block configuration method applicable to a radio access network intelligent controller (RAN Intelligent Controller, RIC) of a wireless communication system, wherein the RIC is communicatively connected to a plurality of base stations (BS) of the wireless communication system, wherein the plurality of BSs are communicatively connected to a plurality of UEs. The method comprises: obtaining a plurality of network status information corresponding to the plurality of UEs from the plurality of BSs; identifying at least one first UE among the plurality of UEs that is interfered with based on the plurality of network status information; and setting a plurality of dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategies corresponding to the plurality of BSs based on the plurality of network status information, the at least one first UE, and the at least one first BS, so as to divide the plurality of RBs available to each BS into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group, wherein the plurality of dynamic RB allocation strategies indicate The invention provides: the multiple first RBs of the multiple first RB groups are used to provide the at least one first UE, and the multiple second RBs of the second RB group are used to provide the second UE other than the at least one first UE among the multiple UEs; the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies are transmitted to the corresponding multiple base stations; and in response to a dynamic adjustment condition being triggered, the network status information is re-obtained to update the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies, and the updated multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies are transmitted to the corresponding multiple base stations.

One or more embodiments disclosed herein provide a base station for dynamically configuring resource blocks, suitable for use in a wireless communication system, the base station comprising: a communication circuit unit, wherein the base station is communicatively connected to a wireless access network intelligent controller (RIC) of the wireless communication system via the communication circuit unit, wherein the base station is communicatively connected to multiple UEs via the communication circuit unit; and a processor. The processor is configured to: continuously receive a plurality of network status information from the associated plurality of UEs and transmit the received plurality of network status information to the RIC; in response to receiving a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy from the RIC, divide the plurality of RBs available to the base station into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group according to the dynamic RB allocation strategy, and identify a target first RB group assigned to the base station in the plurality of first RB groups; and allocate the plurality of RBs to the base station according to the dynamic RB allocation strategy. strategy, identifying at least one first UE among the multiple UEs that is allocated to the target first RB group, and identifying at least one second UE among the multiple UEs that is allocated to the second RB group; generating transmission resource allocation information corresponding to the multiple UEs based on the target first RB group and the second RB group; and transmitting the transmission resource allocation information to the multiple UEs, so that the multiple UEs identify their respective multiple allocated RBs according to the received transmission resource allocation information, and perform uplink or downlink transmission through the multiple allocated RBs.

In summary, the radio access network intelligent controller (RAN Intelligent Controller, RIC), dynamic resource block configuration method and base station for dynamically configuring resource blocks provided by one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can effectively solve the interference problems and low spectrum utilization problems existing in the existing technology. The present disclosure obtains network status information corresponding to multiple user equipments (UEs) from multiple base stations (BSs) through RIC, identifies the interfered UEs, and sets a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy to divide the RBs available to each BS into multiple first RB groups and a second RB group. The first RB group is used for the interfered UEs, and the second RB group is used for other UEs. The RIC transmits these strategies to the corresponding BS and can update the strategies according to dynamic adjustment conditions. This approach not only effectively reduces interference and improves spectrum utilization, but is also highly flexible and scalable, enabling real-time adjustments to resource allocation based on changes in the network environment. Therefore, this disclosure provides an innovative and efficient solution for resource management in 5G networks.

In order to make the above features and advantages of the present disclosure more clearly understood, embodiments are given below and described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and the description to refer to the same or similar elements.

It should be understood that the terms "system" and "network" are often used interchangeably in this disclosure. The term "and/or" in this disclosure simply describes the relationship between related items, meaning that three possible relationships exist. For example, A and/or B could mean three scenarios: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character "/" in this disclosure generally indicates that related items are in an "or" relationship.

The Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC) is a key component proposed by the O-RAN Alliance, designed to provide smarter and more flexible control capabilities for 5G and future wireless networks. RIC can be divided into: Non-RT RIC (non-real-time RIC): located at the top layer, responsible for handling non-real-time control and management functions; and Near-Time RIC (near-time RIC): located in the middle layer, responsible for handling near-real-time network control and optimization functions. The A1 interface is used to connect the non-real-time RIC and the near-real-time RIC. The near-real-time RIC can be connected to multiple associated E2 nodes (such as base stations) through the E2 interface.

A1 interface: Connects non-real-time RIC and near-real-time RIC for transmitting non-real-time policy and control instructions. E2 interface: Connects near-real-time RIC and E2 node for near-real-time control and data collection.

In this embodiment, a near-real-time RIC is used as the main control device to respond to network conditions in real time or near real time. In addition, the RIC also needs to process UE's measurement reports (MRs), calculate interference maps, formulate RB allocation strategies and other tasks. These tasks all require a relatively fast response time and fall within the scope of responsibilities of the near-real-time RIC. On the other hand, the RIC provided by the present disclosure is directly connected to the E2 node (representing the base station) through the E2 interface. This direct connection enables the near-real-time RIC to quickly obtain network status and issue control instructions. In addition, since the present disclosure also performs dynamic adjustments to RB allocation, calculates RSRP differences, establishes interference maps (or relationship diagrams), generates/sets dynamic RB configuration strategies and other operations based on real-time network conditions, the ability of the near-real-time RIC to process large amounts of real-time data is required.

However, in one embodiment, RIC may also represent an electronic device or server that integrates non-real-time RIC and near-real-time RIC.

FIG1 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG1 , wireless communication system 10 includes a radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) 100, multiple base stations (BS1, BS2, ..., BSN), and multiple user equipment (UEs) UE1.1 through UE1.M, UE2.1 through UE2.M, ..., and UEN.1 through UEN.M, respectively associated with the multiple base stations BS1, BS2, ..., BSN. For example, UE1.1 through UE1.M serve as base station BS1.

RIC 100 communicates with multiple base stations (BS1 through BSN) through its communication circuit units. Each base station, in turn, establishes communication connections with multiple UEs within its coverage area. For example, BS1 connects to UE1.1 through UE1.M, BS2 connects to UE2.1 through UE2.M, and so on, all the way up to BSN, which connects to UEN.1 through UEN.M.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication system 10 provided in this disclosure implements a dynamic resource block allocation method based on the O-RAN architecture. For example, in one embodiment, the UE measures the RSRP value and reports it to the base station via an MR (Measurement Report). The base station periodically reports the monitored information (RSRP, RSRQ, SINR) to the RIC via an O-RAN standard interface (e.g., E2 interface, M-Plane interface, or O1 interface, etc.) and KPM (SS-SINR/SS-RSRP/SS-RSRQ). The RIC uses the RSRP difference to calculate the interference level and calculates the interference map and RB dynamic allocation strategy. Finally, the RIC sends the RB dynamic allocation decision to the base station via the O-RAN standard interface.

In one embodiment, a method for dynamic resource block allocation based on an O-RAN architecture includes the following steps:

User Equipment (UE) measures and reports: (a) The UE continuously measures the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) values of surrounding base stations; (b) The UE reports the RSRP values to the serving base station via a Measurement Report (MR).

Base station information collection and transmission: (a) The base station receives measurement reports from the UE; (b) The base station transmits the UE's measurement reports and its own key performance measurement (KPM, including SS-SINR/SS-RSRP/SS-RSRQ) information to the RIC via the O-RAN standard interface.

RIC analysis and strategy formulation: (a) RIC receives information from multiple base stations; (b) RIC calculates the interference level using RSRP differences, using the formula: |(RSRP of the UE corresponding to the serving base station – RSRP of the UE corresponding to the neighboring base station)|, where the interference level is determined by whether it is less than a preset threshold (e.g., 12 dBm); (c) Based on the calculation results, RIC identifies UEs that require special treatment (interfered UEs); (d) Based on the configuration status of the signal coverage range of all base stations and the interference level of the UE, RIC formulates a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy, dividing the available RBs of each base station into multiple interference zones and non-interference zones, so that the interfered UEs can be allocated to the corresponding interference zones.

Dynamic RB allocation: (a) RIC dynamically adjusts the ratio of interference areas to non-interference areas based on network load conditions; (b) RIC uses the complete graph concept to allocate RBs to neighboring base stations, ensuring that RBs in interference areas do not overlap.

Policy delivery and execution: (a) The RIC delivers the dynamic RB allocation decision to each base station through the O-RAN standard interface; (b) The base station allocates appropriate RBs to the UEs under its jurisdiction based on the received policy.

Periodic Updates: The entire process is repeated periodically to adapt to dynamic changes in the network environment.

Fine-grained RB allocation strategy: RIC provides detailed RB allocation instructions to each eNodeB, including: (a) the RB starting position and width of the interference area (ICI) and non-interference area (UI); and (b) the specific RB allocation for each UE in the interference area or non-interference area.

In this way, RIC 100 can dynamically adjust resource allocation based on real-time network conditions, effectively reducing interference and improving overall network performance. Furthermore, because RIC uses centralized management, it can optimize resource allocation from a global perspective, avoiding the local optimality issues that can arise from relying solely on a single base station for decision-making.

Furthermore, this architectural design leverages the advantages of O-RAN, enabling efficient communication between the RIC and base stations via standard O-RAN interfaces. This makes the entire system highly scalable and flexible, enabling RIC 100 to effectively manage and control the entire network, while base station BS1 can flexibly execute policies issued by the RIC and communicate directly with UEs. This layered architecture ensures both overall network optimization and local autonomy for each base station.

In one embodiment, this disclosure utilizes standardized open interfaces defined by the O-RAN Alliance to enable communication between the RIC and base stations. The most important of these interfaces are the E2 and M-Plane interfaces.

E2 interface: The E2 interface is primarily used for control plane communication between the Near-RT RIC (Near Real-Time RIC) and the base station, supporting the following functions: (a) Control plane message exchange: The RIC can send control instructions to the base station through the E2 interface, such as resource block (RB) allocation strategy adjustment and interference management instructions. The E2 interface is the key communication path between the RIC and the base station, responsible for transmitting near-real-time control messages. (b) User plane data support: The E2 interface primarily transmits control plane messages. However, in some cases, it can also support the transmission of user plane performance indicators. (c) Policy update: The RIC can dynamically update and distribute new network optimization policies through the E2 interface to achieve more flexible network resource management.

The E2 interface uses the concept of a service model and defines multiple service types. For example, the E2 Service Model (SM) defines the message structure and process for specific functions; the E2 Application Protocol (E2AP) is responsible for the message transmission protocol of the E2 interface, ensuring effective communication between the RIC and the base station.

The M-Plane interface is primarily used for communication between non-RT RICs and base stations, and is responsible for the following functions: (a) Configuration Management: Initial configuration, software updates, parameter settings, and other operations are performed through M-Plane, helping service providers effectively manage the basic settings of O-RAN equipment. (b) Performance Management: Long-term network performance statistics are collected through the M-Plane interface. This data is used for non-real-time network optimization decisions and policy formulation. (c) Fault Monitoring and Management: Through the M-Plane interface, operators can monitor and report fault conditions, perform fault isolation and recovery, and maintain stable network operations.

In this disclosure, RIC uses the E2 interface to obtain real-time network status information from base stations and issue dynamic RB allocation strategies. Furthermore, it uses the M-Plane interface to perform long-term performance optimization and configuration management.

FIG2A is a block diagram of a wireless access network intelligent controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG2B is a block diagram of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG2A , RIC 100 includes a storage circuit unit 120 for storing various data and program codes; a processor 110 for performing various computational and control functions; a memory 130 for temporarily storing data required by processor 110 when executing programs; and a communication circuit unit 140 for establishing communication connections with multiple base stations.

In one embodiment, the processor 110 executes the code modules stored in the storage circuit unit 120 to implement the following functions: obtaining network status information from multiple base stations, analyzing the network status information, identifying the interfered UE, formulating a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy, transmitting the strategy to the corresponding base station, and/or updating the strategy based on preset conditions.

The communication circuit unit 140 is responsible for receiving network status information from the base station and transmitting the dynamic RB allocation strategy formulated by the RIC to each base station.

Next, as shown in Figure 2B, the internal structure of base station BS1 is similar to that of RIC 100, including: storage circuit unit 121, which stores the programs and data required for base station operation; processor 111, which executes various base station functions; memory 131, which provides temporary data storage space for processor 111; and communication circuit unit 141, which is responsible for exchanging information with RIC 100 and also for establishing wireless connections with multiple UEs under its jurisdiction and collecting information such as UE measurement reports.

In one embodiment, the processor 111 of the base station BS1 can implement the following functions by executing the code stored in the storage circuit unit 121: collecting and organizing the network status information of the UEs under its jurisdiction, transmitting the network status information to the RIC 100, receiving and executing the dynamic RB allocation strategy from the RIC 100, and/or allocating appropriate RBs to the UEs under its jurisdiction based on the strategy.

Processors 110 and 111 serve as the central control units for the RIC and base station, coordinating the operations of various devices, modules, and circuit components. Processors 110 and 111 (e.g., comprising processing circuitry) may include intelligent hardware devices such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

Storage devices 120 and 121 are used to store data. Under the instructions of processors 110 and 111, storage devices 120 and 121 can record data that requires long-term storage, such as firmware or software used to manage the RIC and base stations, multiple code modules, and databases. In this embodiment, storage device 200 can be any type of hard disk drive (HDD) or non-volatile memory storage device (e.g., solid state drive (SSD)).

The memories 130 and 131 may be dynamic random access memories (DRAM), static random access memories (SRAM), etc. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the memories 130 and 131 may also be other suitable memories.

In one embodiment, the communication circuit unit 140 (located in RIC 100) and the communication circuit unit 141 (located in base station BS1) of the present disclosure adopt a multi-layered communication protocol architecture to cover various layers from the physical layer to the application layer, mainly including the following aspects:

Physical layer protocol: At the physical layer, the communication circuit units 140 and 141 can use Ethernet or fiber optic communication protocols. These protocols ensure a high-speed and stable physical connection between the RIC and the base station.

Data link layer protocol: At this layer, the Ethernet protocol (IEEE 802.3) is mainly used to manage the transmission of data frames.

Network layer protocols: IP (Internet Protocol) is widely used at this layer, and may be IPv4 or IPv6. The IP protocol is responsible for packet routing and addressing.

Transport layer protocol:

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): used for control messages and large amounts of data that require reliable transmission.

UDP (User Datagram Protocol): Used for data transmission with high real-time requirements, such as certain monitoring data.

Application layer protocols: At the application layer, the communication circuit units 140 and 141 mainly use the dedicated protocols defined by the O-RAN Alliance:

(a) For the E2 interface: E2AP (E2 Application Protocol): Used for near-real-time message exchange between the RIC and the base station. E2SM (E2 Service Model): Defines the specific message structure for different service types.

(b) For M-Plane interfaces: NETCONF (Network Configuration Protocol): used for configuration management. YANG (Yet Another Next Generation): used for data modeling.

(c) Other supported protocols: SCTP (Stream Control Transmission Protocol): Used as a transport layer protocol for E2AP in some cases. TLS/DTLS (Transport Layer Security/Datagram TLS): Used to ensure communication security.

FIG3 is a flow chart of a dynamic resource block configuration method used by a wireless access network intelligent controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The network status information includes: multiple reference signal received power (RSRP) values corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE; multiple reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE; and multiple signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR) values corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE.

3 , the processor 110 of the RIC 100 executes multiple code modules to implement a dynamic resource block allocation method: In step S310 , multiple network status information corresponding to multiple UEs is obtained from multiple base stations (BSs).

In one embodiment, the execution process of step S310 is as follows: RIC 100 obtains network status information from multiple base stations BS1 to BSN via its communication circuit unit 140 using the E2 interface of O-RAN.

This network status information includes UE measurement reports (MRs) and key performance measurements (KPMs).

In another embodiment, the present disclosure makes full use of the measurement report (MR) of the user equipment (UE) to obtain accurate network status information. MR is a report sent by the UE to its serving base station periodically or based on a specific event trigger, which contains the UE's measurement results of the surrounding wireless environment. MR includes one or more of the following key information: multiple reference signal received power (RSRP) values corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE; multiple reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE; multiple signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratios (SINR) corresponding to multiple transmission pairs of the multiple BSs for each UE.

In one embodiment, MR includes two parts: Serving Cell Measurements and Neighbor Cell Measurements.

(1) Serving Cell Measurements: RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) indicates the power value of the serving cell reference signal received by the UE, reflecting the signal strength. The higher the value, the stronger the signal. RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) indicates the quality of the serving cell reference signal received by the UE. It is usually the ratio between the signal power and the noise. The higher the value, the better the signal quality. SINR (Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio) indicates the ratio of the signal received by the UE to the interference and noise. The higher the value, the better the signal quality, which means better communication performance.

(2) Neighbor Cell Measurements: Neighbor cell list, containing the identifiers of all neighbor cells measured by the UE and their corresponding measurement values; RSRP and RSRQ, similar to serving cells, reporting the RSRP and RSRQ of neighbor cells to help the base station determine the signal quality and strength of neighbor cells; SINR, reporting the SINR value of neighbor cells to help the base station understand the interference and noise conditions of neighboring cell signals.

In one embodiment, KPM is a mechanism used in the O-RAN architecture to collect and report network performance data. Its purpose is to provide real-time and historical information on network status for network optimization and management. KPM provides the RIC with the necessary information for intelligent decision-making. KPM includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following measurements: SS-SINR (Synchronization Signal to Interference and Noise Ratio); SS-RSRP (Synchronization Signal Reference Received Power); and SS-RSRQ (Synchronization Signal Reference Received Quality).

In step S320, at least one first UE that is interfered with among the plurality of UEs is identified based on the plurality of network status information.

Specifically, in one embodiment, the execution process of step S320 is as follows: The processor 110 of the RIC 100 executes the interference identification module stored in the storage device 120 to analyze the network status information obtained in step S310.

In one embodiment, the RIC 100 identifies the interfered UE (i.e., the first UE) as follows: First, based on the multiple RSRP values of each UE's multiple transmission pairs, the RSRP difference between each UE's multiple transmission pairs is calculated. Next, the RIC sets a preset RSRP threshold. If at least one RSRP difference of a UE is determined to be less than this preset RSRP threshold, the RIC identifies the UE as the interfered first UE. This method can effectively identify UEs with poor signal quality and potentially interfered.

For example, the processor 110 calculates the RSRP difference of each UE according to the following formula: RSRP difference _AX = |(RSRP _A between UE4 and serving base station A)-(RSRP _X between UE4 and target base station X)|.

In addition, the processor 110 sets an RSRP difference threshold, such as 12 dBm.

Next, for each UE, processor 110 determines whether an RSRP difference is less than a threshold. If so, the UE is identified as the first UE being interfered with. Finally, processor 110 may store the calculated RSRP differences corresponding to the multiple UEs and the corresponding identification results in memory 130.

FIG6 is a diagram illustrating multiple UEs within the coverage area of multiple base stations and their corresponding RSRP differences, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG6 , in one embodiment, as shown in the upper half of FIG6 , it is assumed that a wireless communication system includes base stations A through E, and multiple UEs 1 through UE 7 are within the coverage area of these base stations A through E.

In one embodiment, coverage can be estimated using the radio output power and location of each base station. For example, the RIC can obtain the transmit power and location of each base station from the base station via the O-RAN standard interface. Based on the transmit power, the RIC can then estimate the coverage of each base station, also known as the service range. Finally, the RIC can use the coverage of each base station to determine whether there is overlap. For example, if base station A has a power of 150m, base station B has a power of 150m, and the distance between A and B is 200m, the RIC can determine that the coverage of A and B overlaps. In another embodiment, the transmission power, corresponding coverage range/distance, and location of each base station may also be pre-set, and the RIC may directly obtain this information from the database.

Based on network status information, RIC obtains the RSRP of multiple transmission pairs corresponding to each UE and uses this information to calculate the RSRP difference between each UE's transmission pairs. For example, for UE4, the RSRP difference between the transmission pair RSRP of UE4 and serving base station A and the RSRP of the transmission pair RSRP of UE4 and target base station B is RSRP _AB = (RSRP _A between UE4 and serving base station A) - (RSRP _B between UE4 and target base station B). The calculated result is 13.41, as shown in Table TB61. Similarly, RSRP _AC = 13.41; RSRP _AD = 14.31; and RSRP _AE = 19.98. Note that when the target base station is equal to the serving base station, the obtained difference is 0. In one embodiment, a larger RSRP difference may also reflect that the UE is farther away from the corresponding target base station or the signal is weaker (due to a smaller RSRP value).

For example, referring to Table TB61 in the upper portion of Figure 8 , assume the RSRP difference threshold (default threshold) is 12 dBm. Based on this RSRP difference threshold, processor 110 can identify that the multiple RSRP differences corresponding to UE2 are less than the RSRP difference threshold of 12 dBm. Consequently, processor 110 determines that UE2, UE3, and UE7 are experiencing interference and classify them as the first UEs affected.

In step S330, based on the plurality of network state information, the at least one first UE, and the at least one first BS, a plurality of dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policies corresponding to the plurality of BSs are configured to divide the plurality of RBs available to each BS into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group. The plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies indicate that the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups are to be provided to the at least one first UE, and the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group are to be provided to second UEs other than the at least one first UE in the plurality of UEs. After the plurality of dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policies corresponding to the plurality of BSs are configured, in step S340, the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies are transmitted to the plurality of corresponding BSs.

In one embodiment, the step of setting the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies corresponding to the multiple BSs further includes: identifying multiple distances between each BS; and identifying the coverage range of each BS. In this way, the relative position relationship, proximity relationship, and overlap relationship between these BSs can be determined.

Then, the RIC 100 identifies at least one neighboring BS for a target BS among the plurality of BSs based on the plurality of distances and the plurality of coverage ranges of the plurality of BSs, wherein the coverage range of the at least one neighboring BS partially overlaps with the coverage range of the target BS; determines the number of the plurality of first RB groups based on the number of the at least one neighboring BS and the overlapping relationship between the at least one neighboring BSs; and determines a first number of the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups and a second number of the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group based on the number of the plurality of first RB groups and the number of the second RB groups, wherein the plurality of first RBs is based on the plurality of second RBs. The number of an RB group is divided (for example, evenly divided) into the multiple first RB groups; and the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies are set and generated to set the multiple first RB groups and the second RB groups to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS, respectively, wherein the target first RB group set to the target BS in the multiple first RB groups is different from the neighboring first RB group set to each neighboring BS in the multiple first RB groups, and the neighboring first RB groups of two BSs that are not adjacent to each other in the at least one neighboring BS are the same, wherein the second RB groups set to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS are the same.

In one embodiment, the processor 110 of the RIC 100 executes a resource allocation module to set a dynamic RB allocation strategy for each base station. The strategy identifies the coverage area and neighboring relationships of each base station; uses a complete graph concept to ensure that the RBs in the interference zones of neighboring base stations do not overlap; and dynamically adjusts the number/ratio of interference zones and non-interference zones based on the identified neighboring relationships and overlaps between multiple base stations. For example, the strategy can be: interference zone (also known as the first RB group): 75% of the RBs; non-interference zone (also known as the second RB group): 25% of the RBs.

Next, the processor 110 generates a specific RB allocation strategy for each base station, including: a first RB group allocated to the first UE that is interfered with; a second RB group allocated to the second UE that is not interfered with. Finally, the processor 110 stores the generated strategy in the memory 130.

In one embodiment, the RIC identifies multiple distances between each base station (BS) and the coverage range of each BS. Then, for a target BS among the multiple BSs, the RIC identifies at least one neighboring BS based on the multiple distances and the coverage ranges of the multiple BSs, where the coverage ranges of these neighboring BSs partially overlap with the coverage range of the target BS. Next, the RIC determines the number of the multiple first RB groups based on the number of neighboring BSs and the overlapping relationship between them. Based on the number of the first RB groups and the number of the second RB groups, the RIC determines the number of the multiple first RBs in the first RB group and the number of the multiple second RBs in the second RB group, where the multiple first RBs are evenly divided into the multiple first RB groups based on the number of the first RB groups.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure determines a proximity relationship (which can be visualized as a relationship graph) based on the target BS, the number of neighboring BSs, and their relative positions and overlaps. Based on this proximity relationship, the number of multiple first RB groups is determined, and the proportion of each RB group in the total available RBs is determined.

FIG7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a relationship diagram determined based on the coverage and overlapping relationships of multiple base stations and a corresponding dynamic RB allocation strategy according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

For example, as shown in Figure 7, this disclosure proposes a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation method based on network topology. This method first establishes a relationship graph D700 between base stations and then designs RB allocation strategies for interference and non-interference areas based on this relationship graph.

First, RIC analyzed network topology information and created a network diagram consisting of five base stations (A, B, C, D, and E). Each base station has a corresponding coverage area, as shown by the circular area in the diagram. RIC analyzed the overlap of these coverage areas and determined the proximity relationships between base stations, creating the following neighbor relationship list, as indicated by arrow A71: A's neighbors: B, C, D; B's neighbors: A, D, E; C's neighbors: A, D; D's neighbors: A, B, C, E; E's neighbors: B, D.

Based on these neighbor relationships, RIC constructs a relationship graph D700 (e.g., a complete graph) in which each base station is connected to its neighboring base stations. This relationship graph D700 provides an important basis for the subsequent RB allocation strategy.

Next, processor 110 designs an RB allocation strategy based on relationship graph D700, determining that the maximum absolute number of neighbors corresponding to a base station is 2. Taking base station A as an example, base stations B, C, and D are neighbors of base station A, for a total of 3 neighbors. The only non-adjacent pair of base stations is base stations B and C, for a total of 1. The RIC yields an absolute number of neighbors of 2 (3-1=2). Processor 110 then calculates the required number of interference zones as the absolute number of neighbors plus 1 (base station A itself), i.e., the required number of interference zones is 3. It also calculates the total number of groups for all available RBs as the required number of interference zones plus the number of non-interference zones (i.e., 3+1=4), resulting in a total number of groups of 4. At this point, processor 110 can divide all available RBs into four zones based on the total number of packets, 4, with zone 1 being a non-interference zone and zone 3 being interference zones. These three interference zones can be set for base station A and its neighboring base stations B, C, and D, respectively (see the striped blocks in Tables RT1, RT2, RT3, and RT4).

For example, in this example, as shown by arrow A72, RIC divides the available RBs of each base station into non-interference zones and interference zones in a ratio of 1:3. This means that 25% of the RBs are allocated as non-interference zones and 75% of the RBs are allocated as interference zones.

In the dynamic RB allocation strategy corresponding to base station A:

The non-interference zone RBs corresponding to base station A (the straight-line block in Table RT1, also referred to as the second RB group) can be allocated by base station A to UEs within its coverage area that are identified as requiring non-interference zone RBs. In this embodiment, processor 110 allocates the same non-interference zone RBs to each base station.

Interference zone RBs (also called the first RB group): In this example, there are three pre-defined non-interference zone RBs, corresponding to the proximity of B, C, and D. This ensures that A has a dedicated set of RBs with each of its neighboring base stations that can be used without causing interference.

Interference zone RBs can be further divided into two categories: (a) non-interference zone RBs assigned to a base station (e.g., base station A) (e.g., the striped blocks in Table RT1 corresponding to base station A): these RBs are assigned to a specific set of neighboring base stations to avoid interference; (b) reserved interference zone RBs (e.g., the dotted blocks in Table RT1 corresponding to base station A): these RBs are not assigned to base station A for use because they have already been assigned to base station A's neighboring base stations.

The RB allocation strategies of other base stations (B, C, D, and E) follow similar principles, as shown in RT2 to RT5. The processor 110 configures specific interference zone RBs for each base station to match the unique neighbor relationship of each base station.

In one embodiment, this disclosure proposes a special resource block (RB) allocation strategy specifically tailored to certain base station topologies. For example, base station A and its neighboring base stations B and C form a unique base station pair. While both members of this base station pair, B and C, are neighbors of A, they are not neighbors of each other. This unique topology provides an opportunity for optimized RB allocation. Specifically, processor 110 assigns the interference zone RBs of this base station pair to the same group (see the stripe blocks of RT2 and RT3).

This setting is based on the following considerations:

Spatial reuse efficiency: Because base stations B and C are not adjacent to each other, the possibility of direct interference between them is greatly reduced. This means that B and C can use the same RB resources simultaneously without causing significant interference to each other. This spatial reuse strategy can significantly improve spectrum utilization.

Interference Management: Although B and C are both neighbors of A, their use of the same interference zone RB does not increase A's interference burden. This is because A needs to consider potential interference from both directions, regardless of whether B and C use the same RB. By assigning B and C to the same interference zone RB, the system effectively simplifies A's interference management tasks.

Reduced complexity: By allowing non-adjacent base stations to share interference zone RBs, the RB allocation scheme for the entire network can be simplified. This not only reduces the complexity of resource management but also potentially reduces the computational burden on the system.

Adapts to network topology: This allocation method takes advantage of the actual physical topology of the network. It recognizes that although B and C are both neighbors of A, the geographical distance between them may be large enough to allow for spectrum reuse.

Potential performance improvement: In some cases, this allocation may lead to an increase in overall network capacity. For example, if the traffic demands of B and C complement each other (i.e., when B requires more resources, C's demand is lower, and vice versa), sharing the same interference zone RB can achieve higher RB resource utilization. In other words, the size of each RB group can be increased.

Through this approach, RIC is able to develop a RB allocation strategy for each base station that minimizes interference while flexibly responding to changing network requirements. This strategy not only improves spectrum efficiency but also enhances the network's resilience to interference, thereby improving overall network performance.

In one embodiment, the step of setting and generating the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies includes: allocating the at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS to the set target first RB group or the second RB group based on whether the at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS is interfered with; and allocating the at least one neighboring UE corresponding to each neighboring BS to the set neighboring first RB group or the second RB group based on whether the at least one neighboring UE of each neighboring BS is interfered with.

Figure 8 illustrates, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, how a dynamic RB allocation strategy is configured to allocate different RB groups to multiple UEs based on their interference conditions. RIC 100 sets a threshold of 12 dBm. When the RSRP difference is less than this threshold, the UE is likely experiencing interference. These potential interference scenarios are marked with dotted shading in Table TB61.

For example, continuing with the example of FIG. 7 , according to Table TB61 and the threshold value of 12 dBm, the processor 110 can identify the interfered first UEs as UE2, UE3, and UE7, which belong to base station B, base station A, and base station E, respectively. These first UEs will be respectively assigned to the interference zone RBs (target first RB groups) of the corresponding serving base stations. The processor 110 can also identify the uninterfered second UEs as UE1, UE4, UE5, and UE6, which belong to base station D, base station A, base station C, and base station C, respectively. These second UEs will be respectively assigned to the non-interference zone RBs (second RB groups) of the corresponding serving base stations. Therefore, as indicated by arrow A81, processor 110 ultimately configures dynamic RB allocation policies corresponding to multiple base stations: the dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to base station A, as shown in Table RT1, in which UE4 is allocated to a non-interference zone RB and UE3 is allocated to an interference zone RB assigned to base station A; the dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to base station B, as shown in Table RT2, in which UE2 is allocated to an interference zone RB assigned to base station B; the dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to base station C, as shown in Table RT3, in which UE5 and UE6 are allocated to non-interference zone RBs; the dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to base station D, as shown in Table RT4, in which UE1 is allocated to a non-interference zone RB; and the dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to base station E, as shown in Table RT5, in which UE7 is allocated to an interference zone RB assigned to base station E.

After setting the dynamic RB policies corresponding to these base stations, the RIC 100 will transmit these dynamic RBs to the corresponding base stations.

That is, RIC 100 transmits the target dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to the target BS among the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the target BS (e.g., base station A), wherein the target dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: indicate that the available RBs of the target BS are adjusted from the multiple RBs to the target first RB group and the second RB group; and indicate that at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS is allocated to the target first RB group or the second RB group, respectively.

In addition, RIC 100 transmits a neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to each neighboring BS among the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the neighboring BS (e.g., neighboring base stations B, C, and D relative to base station A), wherein the neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: instruct the neighboring BS to adjust the available RBs from the multiple RBs to the neighboring first RB group and the second RB group; and instruct at least one neighboring UE corresponding to the neighboring BS to be allocated to the neighboring first RB group or the second RB group, respectively.

In one embodiment, the base station allocates its UEs to designated RB groups based on the received dynamic RB allocation strategy.

More specifically, after the target BS receives the target dynamic RB allocation policy, the target BS identifies the target first RB group set to the target BS among the multiple first RB groups, and at least one target first UE among the at least one target UE allocated to the target first RB group according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy; the target BS identifies the second RB group and at least one target second UE among the at least one target UE allocated to the second RB group according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy; the target BS allocates multiple target first RBs of the target first RB group to the at least one target first UE according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy, so that the at least one target first RB allocated to each of the at least one target first UE is different; and the target BS allocates the multiple second RBs of the second RB group to the at least one target second UE according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy, so that the at least one second RB allocated to each of the at least one target second UE is different. The actions of the neighboring base station in allocating its UEs according to the received neighboring dynamic RB allocation strategy are similar to those of the target base station and will not be repeated here.

FIG9 is a schematic diagram illustrating allocating different UEs to corresponding RB groups based on a received dynamic RB configuration strategy according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to Figure 9, for example, assume that RIC 100 has developed a dynamic RB allocation strategy for base station A based on network status information. Through the dynamic RB allocation strategy, RIC notifies each base station how to divide all RBs into interference zones (ICI) and non-interference zones (UI). Each zone is given a starting RB and a width (length) and is transmitted to base station A via the instruction shown in A91. Furthermore, assume that base station A has UE3, UE4, and UE8, and the received dynamic RB allocation strategy is: [ICI: {UE3, start: 8, width: 4; UE8, start: 12, width: 4}; UI: {UE4, start: 0, width: 8}] (as indicated by arrow A91), where ICI represents the allocation strategy for the interference zone and UI represents the allocation strategy for the non-interference zone.

In one embodiment, this strategy consists of two main parts (see Table RT1 in FIG9 ):

(1) Interference area (ICI): UE3 is allocated 4 RBs starting at position 8; UE8 is allocated 4 RBs starting at position 12.

(2) Non-interference area (UI): UE4 is allocated 8 RBs starting at position 0.

After receiving this policy, base station A performs RB allocation, as shown in A92. Base station A now has 16 available RBs: 8 in the non-interference zone and 8 in the interference zone. RBs 0-7 are non-interference zone RBs (the second RB group), and RBs 8-15 are interference zone RBs assigned to base station A (the target first RB group).

In this embodiment, base station A will stagger the RBs used by each UE. The RB allocation process of base station A is as follows:

Non-interference zone RB allocation (RBs 0-7): Based on the policy, base station A identifies UE4 as being assigned to non-interference zone RBs and allocates all eight non-interference zone RBs (numbered 0-7). This allocation allows UE4 to use these RBs without interference, improving its transmission quality.

Interference Zone RB Allocation (RBs 8-15): Based on the policy, base station A identifies UE3 and UE8 and assigns them to non-interference zone RBs. Furthermore, based on the RB allocation policy recommendations, base station A may assign UE3 to RBs 8-11, corresponding to the policy's "start: 8, width: 4"; and assign UE8 to RBs 12-15, corresponding to the policy's "start: 12, width: 4."

Base station A can also allocate its UEs assigned to interference zone RBs using a different allocation method than recommended by the policy. For example, based on the transmission requirements of UE3 and UE8, base station A allocates UE3 (who has a lower transmission requirement) to RBs 8 and RB9, and allocates UE8 (who has a higher transmission requirement) to RBs 10-15. However, base station A will still follow the RB allocation policy's instructions to allocate UE3 and UE8 to interference zone RBs and will only allocate UE3 and UE8 to the designated interference zone RBs; they will not be allocated to non-interference zone RBs.

In one embodiment, if a new UE9 is connected to base station A, base station A may need to re-evaluate the resource requirements of UE4 based on the transmission status between base station A and UE9, and consider whether some non-interference zone RBs can be allocated to UE9. In another embodiment, base station A may need to request the RIC to update the dynamic RB configuration strategy (while transmitting network status information about UE9) to adapt to the newly added UE9. RIC may re-evaluate the interference situation of UE9 relative to the entire network/base station and provide a new RB allocation strategy for base station A. In other words, how to allocate interference zones and non-interference zones to the corresponding UEs is the responsibility of each BS.

Finally, in step S350, in response to a dynamic adjustment condition being triggered, the network status information is re-acquired to update the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies, and the updated multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies are transmitted to the corresponding multiple BSs.

In one embodiment, the dynamic adjustment conditions include: determining that a preset time period has been reached; determining that the network load change exceeds a preset threshold; receiving an abnormal status report from at least one BS; receiving an RB allocation policy update request from at least one BS; detecting that a new BS has been added or an existing BS has been offline; or detecting that the network topology corresponding to the wireless communication system has changed.

In one embodiment, the RIC can set the reporting period for base stations to report data to it. This reporting period, or the default period used to update dynamic adjustment conditions, can be dynamically adjusted based on different scenarios. For example, in densely populated areas, the reporting period/default period may need to be shortened to cope with more frequent interference. In sparsely populated areas, the reporting period/default period can be appropriately extended.

In one embodiment, RIC 100 periodically reassesses network conditions and may adjust its RB allocation strategy for each BS. When network conditions change significantly (e.g., a sudden increase in load or some BSs going offline), RIC 100 may send updated decisions to the relevant BSs. Upon receiving the new decisions, the BSs will need to reschedule RB allocations, minimizing disruption to existing connections.

In one embodiment, the base station (BS) continuously monitors the performance metrics of its managed UEs, such as throughput and latency. The BS then periodically reports these performance metrics to the RIC 100. Based on the performance reports, the RIC 100 evaluates the effectiveness of the current RB allocation strategy. If performance degradation or room for optimization is detected, the RIC 100 may adjust the RB allocation strategy. The adjusted strategy is then distributed to the relevant BSs for execution.

In one embodiment, when a BS suddenly goes offline or fails, the RIC determines that the BS has failed if it does not receive regular reports from the BS. The RIC then recalculates the relationship graph and quickly formulates a new RB allocation strategy. This new strategy considers how to take over the UEs of the failed BS while minimizing interference with the existing network. Furthermore, when sudden high-traffic demands occur in the network (such as during a large-scale event), the RIC may temporarily adjust the ratio of interference zones to non-interference zones, allocating more RB resources to high-traffic areas (for example, if a base station has a large number of UEs assigned to interference zone RBs, the ratio of interference zone RBs for that base station may be dynamically increased).

The following uses FIG4 to illustrate the operation process of the base station in this disclosure.

Figure 4 is an operational flow chart of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 4, in step S410, the base station continuously receives multiple network status information from multiple associated UEs, and transmits the received multiple network status information to the radio access network intelligent controller (RIC). In this step, the base station continuously receives multiple network status information from multiple user equipments (UEs) within its coverage area. This information may include the reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ) or signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) of each UE. After integrating this information, the base station transmits it to the radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) through the O-RAN standard interface.

In step S420, the base station receives a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policy from the RIC, divides the plurality of RBs available to the base station into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group according to the dynamic RB allocation policy, and identifies a target first RB group assigned to the base station among the plurality of first RB groups. In this step, the base station receives a dynamic RB allocation policy from the RIC. According to this policy, the base station divides the plurality of RBs available to it into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group. Among them, the plurality of first RB groups are set as target first RB groups for allocation to UEs that may be interfered with. The second RB group is used to allocate to UEs that are not interfered with.

In step S430, the base station identifies at least one first UE among the multiple UEs that is allocated to the target first RB group based on the dynamic RB allocation policy, and identifies at least one second UE among the multiple UEs that is allocated to the second RB group. In this step, the base station identifies at least one first UE (a UE that may be interfered with) that needs to be allocated to the target first RB group and at least one second UE (a UE that is not interfered with) that needs to be allocated to the second RB group based on the received dynamic RB allocation policy. This identification process is based on the policy provided by the RIC, which takes into account the interference status of each UE.

In step S440, the base station generates transmission resource allocation information corresponding to the multiple UEs based on the target first RB group and the second RB group. In this step, the base station generates corresponding transmission resource allocation information for the multiple UEs based on the division of the target first RB group and the second RB group. This information specifies the specific RB range that each UE can use, including the starting RB number and the number of RBs.

In step S450, the base station transmits the transmission resource allocation information to the multiple UEs, enabling the UEs to identify their respective allocated RBs based on the received transmission resource allocation information and perform uplink or downlink transmissions using these allocated RBs. In this step, the base station transmits the generated transmission resource allocation information to the corresponding UEs. Upon receiving this information, each UE can identify the specific RBs allocated to it. The UE can then use these allocated RBs for uplink or downlink data transmission.

In one embodiment, the base station sends transmission resource allocation information to the UE via a control channel (e.g., the PDCCH, Physical Downlink Control Channel). This transmission resource allocation information includes instructions for the UE to perform uplink or downlink transmissions on specific time-frequency resources. The UE determines the resources it can use based on the received transmission resource allocation information, rather than directly receiving RB allocation information.

In one embodiment, the transmission resource allocation information includes: a corresponding UE identifier; a time-frequency position indication of the RB allocated to the UE; a transmission direction (uplink/downlink) indication; and a modulation and coding scheme (MCS) indication.

FIG5 is a sequence diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, this disclosure proposes a method for dynamic resource block (RB) allocation based on the O-RAN architecture. This method is illustrated below using the interaction between a radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) 100, base station BS1, and user equipment UE1.1.

S510: User equipment UE1.1 continuously measures the surrounding wireless environment and transmits network status information to its serving base station BS1. This information, such as a Measurement Report (MR), typically includes parameters such as Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), and Signal-to-Interference-and-Noise Ratio (SINR).

S520: Base station BS1 collects network status information from UE1.1 and combines it with its own key performance measurements (KPMs). KPMs include parameters such as synchronization signal signal-to-interference and noise ratio (SS-SINR), synchronization signal reference signal received power (SS-RSRP), and synchronization signal reference signal received quality (SS-RSRQ). Base station BS1 transmits this integrated information to the radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) 100 via the O-RAN standard interface.

S530: After receiving the network status information, RIC 100 analyzes the data to identify UEs that may be experiencing interference. This identification process typically involves comparing the RSRP difference with a preset RSRP difference threshold (e.g., 12 dBm). If the RSRP difference is less than the preset RSRP difference threshold, the UE is considered the first UE experiencing interference.

S540: Based on the identification results and the overall wireless communication system status, RIC 100 designs a dynamic RB allocation strategy for base station BS1. This strategy divides the RBs available at BS1 into multiple first RB groups (for interfered UEs) and a second RB group (for non-interfered UEs).

S550: RIC 100 transmits the formulated dynamic RB allocation strategy to base station BS1 via the E2 interface.

S560: After receiving the RB allocation policy, base station BS1 divides its available RBs into multiple first RB groups and one second RB group according to the policy. For example, 75% of the RBs may be allocated to the interference zone (first RB group) and 25% to the non-interference zone (second RB group).

S570: Base station BS1 generates specific transmission resource allocation information for each UE based on the RB allocation result. This includes allocating resources in the first RB group to the interfered UE and allocating resources in the second RB group to the non-interfered UE.

S580: The base station BS1 transmits the generated transmission resource allocation information to each UE, including UE1.1.

S590: After receiving the transmission resource allocation information, UE1.1 identifies the specific RBs allocated to it. UE1.1 then uses these allocated RBs for uplink or downlink data transmission.

This process is dynamic and cyclical. RIC 100 regularly updates its RB allocation strategy to adapt to changes in the wireless communication system. Simultaneously, all UEs and base stations in the wireless communication system continuously monitor and report network status, ensuring that RIC 100 can make optimized decisions based on the latest conditions.

FIG10 is a schematic diagram illustrating experimental results of applying the method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to Figure 10 , in one embodiment, the dynamic resource block (RB) allocation method of this disclosure was tested in a network scenario involving 20 user equipment (UEs). As shown in the figure, these UEs were distributed within the coverage areas of five base stations (A, B, C, D, and E), with some UEs located at the edges of base station coverage or in overlapping areas.

According to the disclosed method, the RIC first identifies the UEs most susceptible to interference. In this example, the UEs identified as being most susceptible to interference include UEs 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, and 19, a total of 10 UEs, accounting for 50% of the total. These UEs are primarily located at the edges of base station coverage or in overlapping areas, making them more susceptible to interference.

In this embodiment, the RIC then developed a dynamic RB allocation strategy. After implementing the dynamic RB allocation strategy, network performance was significantly improved:

1. For the worst 50% of UEs (i.e., the UEs most affected by interference):

The average SINR increased from -2.47 dB to 13.02 dB, an improvement of 15.49 dB.

Average throughput increased from 9.24 Mbps to 37.73 Mbps, a 408% improvement.

2. For all UEs:

The average SINR increased from 10.76 dB to 20.10 dB, an improvement of 9.34 dB.

Average throughput increased from 104.45 Mbps to 115.82 Mbps, a 110% improvement.

3. For the other 50% of UEs (UEs not severely interfered with):

The average throughput increased from 197.42 Mbps to 254.18 Mbps, a 28.75% improvement.

This experiment highlights several key benefits of this disclosure:

Significantly improve overall network performance: Through intelligent resource allocation, the average throughput of the entire network increased by 110%, and the signal-indicator ratio (SINR) also improved significantly.

Particularly improving the experience of users affected by interference: The performance of the worst 50% of UEs has been significantly improved, with throughput increasing by 408%, significantly improving the network experience for these users.

Balanced performance improvement: While the performance of the interfered UE is primarily improved, the performance of other UEs is also improved, demonstrating the balanced nature of this approach in overall network optimization.

Improved spectrum utilization efficiency: Without increasing spectrum resources, RB allocation achieves overall performance improvement, indicating a significant improvement in spectrum utilization efficiency.

In response to the technical problems encountered in this field, the technical solution proposed in this disclosure has the following technical effects:

Improving spectrum utilization: This disclosure effectively improves spectrum resource utilization by dynamically dividing the resource blocks (RBs) available to each base station (BS) into multiple first RB groups and one second RB group, and allocating them based on the interference status of user equipment (UE).

Interference reduction: By identifying interfered UEs and assigning them to dedicated primary RB groups, interference issues within the network can be effectively reduced, improving overall network performance. Furthermore, multiple primary RB groups are assigned to multiple base stations based on their proximity.

Strong Dynamic Adaptability: The RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) in this disclosure dynamically adjusts RB allocation strategies based on network status information, enabling the system to quickly respond to changes in the network environment. A dynamic adjustment condition mechanism automatically triggers updates to the RB allocation strategy based on factors such as preset time periods, network load changes, and base station status, ensuring the system always maintains optimal performance.

Global Optimization: By collecting network status information from multiple base stations, RIC can formulate the best resource allocation strategy from a global perspective, avoiding the local optimization problems that may arise from single base station decisions.

Ease of deployment: This disclosure utilizes the O-RAN architecture and communicates with existing network equipment through standard interfaces, eliminating the need to change the operational behavior of the RAN and core networks, significantly reducing deployment costs and complexity.

Improved network performance: Experimental results show that this disclosure can significantly improve the throughput of interfered UEs, which is of great significance for improving 5G network performance.

In summary, the radio access network intelligent controller (RAN Intelligent Controller, RIC), dynamic resource block configuration method, and base station for dynamically configuring resource blocks provided by one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can effectively solve the interference problems and low spectrum utilization problems existing in the existing technology. The present disclosure obtains network status information corresponding to multiple user equipments (UEs) from multiple base stations (BSs) through the RIC, identifies the interfered UEs, and sets a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation strategy to divide the RBs available to each BS into multiple first RB groups and a second RB group. The first RB group is used for the interfered UEs, and the second RB group is used for other UEs. The RIC transmits these strategies to the corresponding BS and can update the strategies based on dynamic adjustment conditions. This approach not only effectively reduces interference and improves spectrum utilization, but is also highly flexible and scalable, enabling real-time adjustments to resource allocation based on changes in the network environment. Therefore, this disclosure provides an innovative and efficient solution for resource management in 5G networks.

Although the present disclosure has been provided above with reference to the embodiments, they are not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art may make minor modifications and improvements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be determined by the scope of the attached patent application.

10: Wireless Communication System 100: Wireless Access Network Intelligent Controller 110, 111: Processor 120, 121: Storage Circuit Unit 130, 131: Memory 140, 141: Communication Circuit Unit BS1, BS2, BSN: Base Station UE1.1, UE1.2, UE1.M, UE2.1, UE2.2, UE2.M, UEN.1, UEN.2, UEN.M: User Equipment S310-S350: Steps of the Dynamic Resource Block Allocation Method S410-S450: Steps of the Base Station Operation Process S510-S590: Steps of the Wireless Communication System Sequence Diagram TB61: Table RT1-RT5: Table, RB allocation strategy A-E: Base station UE1-UE7: User equipment D700: Relationship diagram A71, A72, A81, A91, A92: Arrows

Figure 1 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2A is a block diagram of a wireless access network intelligent controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2B is a block diagram of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 is a flow chart of a dynamic resource block allocation method used by the wireless access network intelligent controller according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 is a flow chart of the operation of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of multiple UEs within the coverage area of multiple base stations and the corresponding RSRP differences according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating a relationship diagram determined based on the coverage and overlap relationships of multiple base stations and the corresponding dynamic RB allocation policy, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a dynamic RB allocation policy configured to allocate different RB groups to multiple UEs based on the interference conditions of multiple UEs, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a method of allocating different UEs to corresponding RB groups based on a received dynamic RB allocation policy, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating experimental results of applying the present method, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

S310~S350: Steps

Claims (18)

A Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC) is applicable to a wireless communication system. The RIC comprises: A communication circuit unit, wherein the RIC is communicatively connected to multiple base stations (BSs) of the wireless communication system via the communication circuit unit, wherein the multiple BSs are communicatively connected to multiple user equipment (UEs); and A processor, wherein the processor is configured, by executing multiple code modules, to: obtain multiple pieces of network status information corresponding to the multiple UEs from the multiple BSs; identify at least one first UE among the multiple UEs that is interfered with based on the multiple pieces of network status information; Based on the plurality of network status information, the at least one first UE, and the at least one first base station, multiple dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policies corresponding to the plurality of base stations are configured to divide the plurality of RBs available to each base station into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group, wherein the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies indicate that the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups are to be provided to the at least one first UE, and the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group are to be provided to second UEs other than the at least one first UE among the plurality of UEs; The plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies are transmitted to the plurality of corresponding base stations; and In response to a dynamic adjustment condition being triggered, the network status information is re-obtained to update the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies, and the updated plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies are transmitted to the plurality of corresponding base stations. The RIC of claim 1, wherein the network status information comprises: A plurality of reference signal received power (RSRP) values for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations; A plurality of reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations; or A plurality of signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratios (SINRs) for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations. In the RIC of claim 2, identifying the at least one first UE comprises: calculating RSRP differences between the multiple transmission pairs of each UE based on the multiple RSRPs of the multiple transmission pairs of each UE; in response to determining that at least one RSRP difference of a UE is less than a preset RSRP threshold, identifying the UE as one of the at least one first UE. The RIC of claim 1, wherein the step of setting the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies corresponding to the multiple BSs further comprises: Identifying multiple distances between each BS; Identifying the coverage range of each BS; For a target BS among the multiple BSs, identifying at least one neighboring BS based on the multiple distances and the multiple coverage ranges of the multiple BSs, wherein the coverage range of the at least one neighboring BS partially overlaps with the coverage range of the target BS; Determining the number of the multiple first RB groups based on the number of the at least one neighboring BS and the overlapping relationship between the at least one neighboring BSs; Determining a first number of the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups and a second number of the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group based on the number of the plurality of first RB groups, wherein the plurality of first RBs are evenly divided into the plurality of first RB groups based on the number of the plurality of first RB groups; and Setting and generating the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies to assign the plurality of first RB groups and the second RB groups to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS, respectively, wherein a target first RB group assigned to the target BS in the plurality of first RB groups is different from a neighboring first RB group assigned to each neighboring BS in the plurality of first RB groups, and the neighboring first RB groups of two non-neighboring BSs in the at least one neighboring BS are the same, and wherein the second RB groups assigned to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS are the same. The RIC of claim 4, wherein the step of setting and generating the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies comprises: based on whether at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS is interfered with, allocating the at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS to the configured first target RB group or the second RB group; and based on whether at least one neighboring UE corresponding to each neighboring BS is interfered with, allocating the at least one neighboring UE corresponding to each neighboring BS to the configured first neighboring RB group or the second RB group. The RIC of claim 5 is further configured to: Transmit a target dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to the target BS from the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the target BS, wherein the target dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: Instruct the target BS to adjust available RBs from the multiple RBs to the target first RB group and the second RB group; and Instruct at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS to be allocated to the target first RB group or the second RB group, respectively; and Transmit a neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to each neighboring BS from the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the neighboring BS, wherein the neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: Instruct the neighboring BS to adjust available RBs from the multiple RBs to the target first RB group and the second RB group; and Indicates that at least one neighboring UE corresponding to the neighboring BS is allocated to the neighboring first RB group or the second RB group. The RIC of claim 6, wherein after the target BS receives the target dynamic RB allocation policy, the target BS identifies the target first RB group assigned to the target BS among the multiple first RB groups and at least one target first UE among the at least one target UE that is assigned to the target first RB group according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy; the target BS identifies the second RB group and at least one target second UE among the at least one target UE that is assigned to the second RB group according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy; the target BS allocates multiple target first RBs of the target first RB group to the at least one target first UE according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy, such that the at least one target first RB assigned to each of the at least one target first UEs is different; and The target BS allocates the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group to the at least one target second UE according to the target dynamic RB allocation policy, such that the at least one second RB allocated to each of the at least one target second UE is different. An RIC as described in claim 1, wherein the dynamic adjustment conditions include: determining that a preset time period has been reached; determining that a network load change exceeds a preset threshold; receiving an abnormal status report from at least one BS; receiving an RB allocation strategy update request from at least one BS; detecting that a new BS has been added or an existing BS has been offline; or detecting that a network topology corresponding to the wireless communication system has changed. A dynamic resource block allocation method is applicable to a Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC) of a wireless communication system, wherein the RIC is communicatively connected to multiple base stations (BSs) of the wireless communication system, wherein the multiple BSs are communicatively connected to multiple user equipment (UEs). The method comprises: obtaining multiple pieces of network status information corresponding to the multiple UEs from the multiple BSs; identifying at least one first UE among the multiple UEs that is interfered with based on the multiple pieces of network status information; Based on the plurality of network status information, the at least one first UE, and the at least one first base station, multiple dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policies corresponding to the plurality of base stations are configured to divide the plurality of RBs available to each base station into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group, wherein the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies indicate that the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups are to be provided to the at least one first UE, and the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group are to be provided to second UEs other than the at least one first UE among the plurality of UEs; The plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies are transmitted to the plurality of corresponding base stations; and In response to a dynamic adjustment condition being triggered, the network status information is re-obtained to update the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies, and the updated plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies are transmitted to the plurality of corresponding base stations. The dynamic resource block allocation method of claim 9, wherein the network state information includes: A plurality of reference signal received power (RSRP) values for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations; A plurality of reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations; or A plurality of signal-to-interference and noise ratios (SINRs) for each UE and a plurality of transmission pairs of the plurality of base stations. In the dynamic resource block allocation method of claim 10, the step of identifying the at least one first UE comprises: calculating RSRP differences between the multiple transmission pairs of each UE based on the multiple RSRPs of the multiple transmission pairs of each UE; and in response to determining that at least one RSRP difference of a UE is less than a preset RSRP threshold, identifying the UE as one of the at least one first UE. The dynamic resource block allocation method of claim 9, wherein the step of setting the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies corresponding to the multiple base stations further comprises: Identifying multiple distances between each base station; Identifying the coverage range of each base station; For a target base station among the multiple base stations, identifying at least one neighboring base station based on the multiple distances and the multiple coverage ranges of the multiple base stations, wherein the coverage range of the at least one neighboring base station partially overlaps with the coverage range of the target base station; Determining the number of the multiple first RB groups based on the number of the at least one neighboring base station and the overlapping relationship between the at least one neighboring base stations; Determining a first number of the plurality of first RBs in the plurality of first RB groups and a second number of the plurality of second RBs in the second RB group based on the number of the plurality of first RB groups, wherein the plurality of first RBs are evenly divided into the plurality of first RB groups based on the number of the plurality of first RB groups; and Setting and generating the plurality of dynamic RB allocation policies to assign the plurality of first RB groups and the second RB groups to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS, respectively, wherein a target first RB group assigned to the target BS in the plurality of first RB groups is different from a neighboring first RB group assigned to each neighboring BS in the plurality of first RB groups, and the neighboring first RB groups of two non-neighboring BSs in the at least one neighboring BS are the same, and wherein the second RB groups assigned to the target BS and the at least one neighboring BS are the same. The dynamic resource block allocation method of claim 12, wherein the step of setting and generating the multiple dynamic RB allocation strategies includes: based on whether at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS is interfered with, allocating the at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS to the configured first target RB group or the second RB group; and based on whether at least one neighboring UE corresponding to each neighboring BS is interfered with, allocating the at least one neighboring UE corresponding to each neighboring BS to the configured first neighboring RB group or the second neighboring RB group. The dynamic resource block allocation method of claim 13 further comprises: transmitting a target dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to the target BS from the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the target BS, wherein the target dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: instruct the target BS to adjust the available RBs from the multiple RBs to the target first RB group and the second RB group; and instruct at least one target UE corresponding to the target BS to be allocated to the target first RB group or the second RB group, respectively; and transmitting a neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy corresponding to each neighboring BS from the multiple dynamic RB allocation policies to the neighboring BS, wherein the neighboring dynamic RB allocation policy is used to: instruct the neighboring BS to adjust the available RBs from the multiple RBs to the neighboring first RB group and the second RB group; and Indicates that at least one neighboring UE corresponding to the neighboring BS is allocated to the neighboring first RB group or the second RB group. A dynamic resource block configuration method as described in claim 9, wherein the dynamic adjustment conditions include: determining that a preset time period has been reached; determining that the network load change exceeds a preset threshold; receiving an abnormal status report from at least one BS; receiving an RB allocation policy update request from at least one BS; detecting that a new BS has been added or an existing BS is offline; or detecting that the network topology corresponding to the wireless communication system has changed. A base station for dynamically allocating resource blocks is suitable for use in a wireless communication system. The base station comprises: a communication circuit unit (CCU), wherein the base station is communicatively connected to a radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) of the wireless communication system via the CCU, and wherein the base station is communicatively connected to a plurality of user equipment (UEs) via the CCU; and a processor, wherein the processor is configured, by executing a plurality of code modules, to: continuously receive a plurality of network status information from the plurality of associated UEs and transmit the received plurality of network status information to the RIC; In response to receiving a dynamic resource block (RB) allocation policy from the RIC, the system divides a plurality of RBs available to the base station into a plurality of first RB groups and a second RB group according to the dynamic RB allocation policy, and identifies a target first RB group assigned to the base station from the plurality of first RB groups; identifies at least one first UE from the plurality of UEs that is assigned to the target first RB group and at least one second UE from the plurality of UEs that is assigned to the second RB group according to the dynamic RB allocation policy; generates transmission resource allocation information corresponding to the plurality of UEs based on the target first RB group and the second RB group; and transmits the transmission resource allocation information to the plurality of UEs, so that the plurality of UEs identify their respective plurality of allocated RBs based on the received transmission resource allocation information and perform uplink or downlink transmission via the plurality of allocated RBs. The base station for dynamically allocating resource blocks as claimed in claim 16, wherein: the processor allocates, based on the dynamic RB allocation policy, multiple target first RBs of the target first RB group to the at least one first UE, such that at least one target first RB allocated to each of the at least one first UE is different; the processor allocates, based on the dynamic RB allocation policy, multiple second RBs of the second RB group to the at least one second UE, such that at least one second RB allocated to each of the at least one second UE is different. The base station for dynamically allocating resource blocks according to claim 16, wherein the network state information comprises: A plurality of reference signal received power (RSRP) values for a plurality of transmission pairs corresponding to each UE of the base station; A plurality of reference signal received quality (RSRQ) values for a plurality of transmission pairs corresponding to each UE of the base station; or A plurality of signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratios (SINRs) for a plurality of transmission pairs corresponding to each UE of the base station.