FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
“METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RESOLUTION OF A PHYSICAL CELL IDENTIFIER (PCI) CONFLICT BETWEEN BASE STATIONS”
We, Jio Platforms Limited, an Indian National, of Office - 101, Saffron, Nr. Centre Point, Panchwati 5 Rasta, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad - 380006, Gujarat, India.
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.
2
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RESOLUTION OF A PHYSICAL CELL IDENTIFIER (PCI) CONFLICT BETWEEN BASE STATIONS
TECHNICAL FIELD
5
[0001]
Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to network performance management systems. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to method and system for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations.
10
BACKGROUND
[0002]
The following description of the related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the 15 present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of the prior art.
[0003]
Wireless communication technology has rapidly evolved over the past few 20 decades, with each generation bringing significant improvements and advancements. The first generation of wireless communication technology was based on analog technology and offered only voice services. However, with the advent of the second generation (2G) technology, digital communication and data services became possible, and text messaging was introduced. The third generation 25 (3G) technology marked the introduction of high-speed internet access, mobile video calling, and location-based services. The fourth generation (4G) technology revolutionized wireless communication with faster data speeds, better network coverage, and improved security. Currently, the fifth generation (5G) technology is being deployed, promising even faster data speeds, low latency, and the ability to 30 connect multiple devices simultaneously. With each generation, wireless
3
communication technology has become more advanced, sophisticated, and capable
of delivering more services to its users.
[0004]
In the existing 5G network, each gNodeB is assigned a physical cell identifier (PCI). Further, the gNodeB can be classified into two categories: source 5 or neighbour from a user equipment (UE) point of view. Source is that gNodeB to which a given UE is connected. Other gNodeBs connected to the source gNodeB are called neighbour gNodeBs. For each gNodeB, there exists a neighbour relation table (NRT) capturing all the other gNodeBs connected to the said gNodeB.
10
[0005]
When a UE moves from one location to another, the UE may have to switch to a new gNodeB, this involves use of PCI numbers of source gNB as well as neighbours. It is emphasized that the 3GPP standards for 5G prescribe that PCI numbers should be between 0 and 1007 (both inclusive in the range). Therefore, in a large network, two PCIs may be assigned the same number. A scenario where PCI 15 for the source gNB and PCI for the neighbour gNB is same is known as PCI collision. A scenario where any two neighbours of the source gNB have the same PCI number is known as PCI confusion. It is critical for optimized network performance and successful handover, that PCI collision or confusion do not happen in the neighbours of the source gNB. 20
[0006]
The 3GPP Standards do not specify any algorithm as well as the implementation between the SON and the gNB to achieve PCI collision, confusion reporting & its resolution. Thus, there exists an imperative need in the art to resolve the PCI collision and the PCI confusion in the network, which the present disclosure 25 aims to address.
SUMMARY
[0007]
This section is provided to introduce certain aspects of the present disclosure 30 in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description.
4
This summary is not intended to identify the key features or the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0008]
An aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a method for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, the method 5 comprising receiving, by a transceiver unit of a self-optimizing network (SON) server, a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI. The method further comprises determining, by an analysis unit of the SON server, a distance between the first base station and the 10 second base station. The method comprises in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold, initiating, a resolution unit of the SON server, a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station. The method comprises selecting, by a selection unit of the SON server, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing 15 the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database. The method comprises selecting, by the selection unit of the SON server, a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers. The method 20 comprises communicating, by the transceiver unit of the SON server, the new PCI number to the final base station.
[0009]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the first base station is a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected, and the second 25 base station is a neighbour base station, the neighbour base station connected to the source base station.
[0010]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the PCI conflict is a PCI collision conflict. 30
5
[0011]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the first base station is a first neighbour base station, and the second base station is a second neighbour base station, wherein each of the first neighbour base station and the second neighbour base station are connected to a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected. 5
[0012]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the PCI conflict is a PCI confusion conflict.
[0013]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, in an event the determined 10 distance is less than the pre-defined threshold, initiating the conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station comprises of transmitting the resolution request to the cell database and during a pre-defined maintenance time window, receiving, from the cell database, the resolution request.
15
[0014]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the steps of selecting one of the first base station and the second base station for changing the PCI number comprises selecting the new PCI number for the final base station and communicating the new PCI number to the final base station, are performed during a pre-defined maintenance time-window. 20
[0015]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, selecting, by the selection unit of the SON server, the final base station, comprising retrieving, by the selection unit of the SON server, the active device count, and the cell data volume of the first base station and the active device count and the cell data volume of the second base 25 station from the cell database. Further, selecting, by the selection unit of the SON server, for changing the PCI number, the final base station, wherein the final base station is one of the base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower active device count, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is different; 30 and the base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with
6
a lower cell data volume, in an event the active device count of the first base station
and the active device count of the second base station is same.
[0016]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the selecting, by selection unit of the SON server, the new PCI number for the final base station from the pool 5 of one or more available PCI numbers, comprises determining, by the selection unit of the SON server, a predefined number of top ranked neighbour base stations from a set of all neighbour base stations, using a neighbour relation table (NRT) of the final base station. Further, checking, by the selection unit of the SON server, whether a candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour 10 base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations. Thereafter, performing, by the selection unit of the SON server, one of the check procedure in an event the candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations, and selecting, by the SON server, the candidate PCI number as the new PCI number, in an event the candidate PCI 15 number is different from the PCI number of each neighbour base station in the set of all neighbour base stations.
[0017]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the check procedure comprises performing reiteratively, by the selection unit of the SON server, the 20 following steps till each predefined condition in a set of predefined conditions, is satisfied: selecting randomly, by the selection unit of the SON server, a candidate PCI number from the pool of the one or more available PCI numbers, and checking, by the selection unit of the SON server, for each of the determined top ranked neighbours of the final base station, the pre-defined conditions. 25
[0018]
In an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, the pre-defined conditions comprise the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration. Further, the pre-defined conditions comprise a first modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked 30 neighbour of the current iteration, and a second modulo operation value of the
7
candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current
iteration.
[0019]
Another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a system for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, the 5 system comprising a self-optimizing network (SON) server, the SON server further comprises a transceiver unit configured to receive a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI. The system further comprises an analysis unit connected to at least the transceiver unit, the 10 analysis unit is configured to determine a distance between the first base station and the second base station. Further, the system comprises a resolution unit connected to at least the analysis unit, the resolution unit is configured to initiate a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold. The system 15 comprising a selection unit connected to at least the resolution unit, the selection unit is configured to select, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number, wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second 20 base station, from a cell database. Further the selection unit is configured to select, a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers. Moreover, the transceiver unit is further configured to communicate, the new PCI number to the final base station.
25
[0020]
Yet another aspect of the present disclosure may relate to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, the instructions include executable code which, when executed by one or more units of a system, wherein the system comprises a SON server, causes: a transceiver unit of the SON server to 30 receive a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and
8
a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base
station has an identical PCI; an analysis unit of the SON server to determine a distance between the first base station and the second base station; a resolution unit of the SON server to initiate a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station in an event the determined distance is less than 5 a pre-defined threshold; a selection unit of the SON server to select, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number, wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database; 10 the selection unit of the SON server select, a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers; and the transceiver unit of the SON server to communicate, the new PCI number to the final base station.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 15
[0021]
Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment disclosed herein satisfies are listed herein below.
[0022]
It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a system and a method for 20 PCI collision and PCI confusion resolution.
[0023]
It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that automatically resolves PCI collision.
25
[0024]
It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that automatically resolves PCI confusion.
[0025]
It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that automatically assigns new PCI value to a gNodeB. 30
9
[0026]
It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a solution that allows PCI collision and/or PCI confusion resolution in a user specified maintenance window to avoid changing configuration in peak hours.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 5
[0027]
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, 10 emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Also, the embodiments shown in the figures are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure, but the possible variants of the method and system according to the disclosure are illustrated herein to highlight the advantages of the disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such 15 drawings includes disclosure of electrical components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
[0028]
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5th Generation Core (5GC) network architecture in accordance with exemplary 20 implementation of the present disclosure.
[0029]
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. 25
[0030]
FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a system for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.
30
10
[0031]
FIG. 4 illustrates a method flow diagram for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, an accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure.
[0032]
FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram for PCI Collision, in 5 accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033]
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram for PCI Confusion, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
10
[0034]
FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram for selection of gNB for PCI resolution, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0035]
FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram to find new valid PCI value, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 15
[0036]
The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION 20
[0037]
In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific 25 details. Several features described hereafter may each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above.
30
11
[0038]
The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and 5 arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.
[0039]
Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of 10 ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail.
15
[0040]
Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process which is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations may be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process 20 is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure.
[0041]
The word “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the 25 subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms 30 “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed
12
description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive
—in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as an open transition word—without precluding any additional or other elements.
[0042]
As used herein, a “processing unit” or “processor” or “operating processor” 5 includes one or more processors, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. A processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a (Digital Signal Processing) DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific 10 Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input/output processing, and/or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor or processing unit is a hardware processor. 15
[0043]
As used herein, “a user equipment”, “a user device”, “a smart-user-device”, “a smart-device”, “an electronic device”, “a mobile device”, “a handheld device”, “a wireless communication device”, “a mobile communication device”, “a communication device” may be any electrical, electronic, and/or computing device 20 or equipment, capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. The user equipment/device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, smart phone, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, wearable device or any other computing device which is capable of implementing the features of the present disclosure. Also, the user device may 25 contain at least one input means configured to receive an input from at least one of a transceiver unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, a detection unit and any other such unit(s) which are required to implement the features of the present disclosure.
[0044]
As used herein, “storage unit” or “memory unit” refers to a machine or 30 computer-readable medium including any mechanism for storing information in a
13
form readable by a computer or similar machine. For example, a computer
-readable medium includes read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices or other types of machine-accessible storage media. The storage unit stores at least the data that may be required by one or more units of the system to perform their respective 5 functions.
[0045]
As used herein “interface” or “user interface refers to a shared boundary across which two or more separate components of a system exchange information or data. The interface may also be referred to a set of rules or protocols that define 10 communication or interaction of one or more modules or one or more units with each other, which also includes the methods, functions, or procedures that may be called.
[0046]
All modules, units, components used herein, unless explicitly excluded 15 herein, may be software modules or hardware processors, the processors being a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a DSP core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Array 20 circuits (FPGA), any other type of integrated circuits, etc.
[0047]
This invention relates to a method within a self-optimizing network (SON) for resolving Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflicts between base stations. A SON is a network that uses intelligent algorithms to automatically optimize its 25 performance and configuration, reducing the need for manual intervention. Here, the SON server plays a central role in identifying and resolving conflicts through a structured process.
[0048]
As used herein the transceiver unit include at least one receiver and at least 30 one transmitter configured respectively for receiving and transmitting data, signals,
14
information,
or a combination thereof between units/components within the system and/or connected with the system.
[0049]
As discussed in the background section, the current known solutions have several shortcomings. The present disclosure aims to overcome the above-5 mentioned and other existing problems in this field of technology by providing method and system for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations.
[0050]
It is reiterated that in 5G network, each gNodeB is assigned a physical cell 10 identifier (PCI). Further, the gNodeB can be classified into two categories: source or neighbour from a user equipment (UE) point of view. Source is that gNodeB to which a given UE is connected. Other gNodeBs connected to the source gNodeB or physically nearby to the source gNodeB are called neighbour gNodeBs. For each gNodeB, there exists a neighbour relation table (NRT) capturing all the other 15 gNodeBs connected to the said gNodeB.
[0051]
It is also reiterated that when a UE moves from one location to another, the UE may want to switch to a new gNodeB, this involves PCI numbers of source as well as neighbours. It is emphasized that 3GPP standards for 5G prescribes that PCI 20 numbers should be between 0 and 1007 (both inclusive in the range). Therefore, in a large network, two PCIs can have same number. A scenario where the source PCI number and the neighbour PCI number is same is known as PCI collision. A scenario where any two neighbours of the source have same PCI number is known as PCI confusion. It is critical for optimized network performance and successful 25 handover, that PCI collision or confusion do not happen in neighbours of the source gNB.
[0052]
The present disclosure aims to overcome the above-mentioned and other existing problems in this field of technology by a method and a system for PCI 30 collision and PCI confusion resolution.
15
[0053]
Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0054]
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram representation of 5th 5 generation core (5GC) network architecture, in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the 5GC network architecture [100] includes a user equipment (UE) [102], a radio access network (RAN) [104], an access and mobility management function (AMF) [106], a Session Management Function (SMF) [108], a Service Communication Proxy (SCP) [110], 10 an Authentication Server Function (AUSF) [112], a Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function (NSSAAF) [114], a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) [116], a Network Exposure Function (NEF) [118], a Network Repository Function (NRF) [120], a Policy Control Function (PCF) [122], a Unified Data Management (UDM) [124], an application function (AF) [126], a 15 User Plane Function (UPF) [128], a data network (DN) [130], wherein all the components are assumed to be connected to each other in a manner as obvious to the person skilled in the art for implementing features of the present disclosure.
[0055]
Radio Access Network (RAN) [104] is the part of a mobile 20 telecommunications system that connects user equipment (UE) [102] to the core network (CN) and provides access to different types of networks (e.g., 5G network). It consists of radio base stations and the radio access technologies that enable wireless communication.
25
[0056]
Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) [106] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing access and mobility aspects, such as UE registration, connection, and reachability. It also handles mobility management procedures like handovers and paging.
30
16
[0057]
Session Management Function (SMF) [108] is a 5G core network function responsible for managing session-related aspects, such as establishing, modifying, and releasing sessions. It coordinates with the User Plane Function (UPF) for data forwarding and handles IP address allocation and QoS enforcement.
5
[0058]
Service Communication Proxy (SCP) [110] is a network function in the 5G core network that facilitates communication between other network functions by providing a secure and efficient messaging service. It acts as a mediator for service-based interfaces.
10
[0059]
Authentication Server Function (AUSF) [112] is a network function in the 5G core responsible for authenticating UEs during registration and providing security services. It generates and verifies authentication vectors and tokens.
[0060]
Network Slice Specific Authentication and Authorization Function 15 (NSSAAF) [114] is a network function that provides authentication and authorization services specific to network slices. It ensures that UEs can access only the slices for which they are authorized.
[0061]
Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) [116] is a network function 20 responsible for selecting the appropriate network slice for a UE based on factors such as subscription, requested services, and network policies.
[0062]
Network Exposure Function (NEF) [118] is a network function that exposes capabilities and services of the 5G network to external applications, enabling 25 integration with third-party services and applications.
[0063]
Network Repository Function (NRF) [120] is a network function that acts as a central repository for information about available network functions and services. It facilitates the discovery and dynamic registration of network functions. 30
17
[0064]
Policy Control Function (PCF) [122] is a network function responsible for policy control decisions, such as QoS, charging, and access control, based on subscriber information and network policies.
[0065]
Unified Data Management (UDM) [124] is a network function that 5 centralizes the management of subscriber data, including authentication, authorization, and subscription information.
[0066]
Application Function (AF) [126] is a network function that represents external applications interfacing with the 5G core network to access network 10 capabilities and services.
[0067]
User Plane Function (UPF) [128] is a network function responsible for handling user data traffic, including packet routing, forwarding, and QoS enforcement. 15
[0068]
Data Network (DN) [130] refers to a network that provides data services to user equipment (UE) in a telecommunications system. The data services may include but are not limited to Internet services, private data network related services.
20
[0069]
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a computing device [200] (or referred to herein as a computer system [200]) upon which the features of the present disclosure may be implemented in accordance with exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In an implementation, the computing device [200] may also implement a method for resolution of a Physical Cell 25 Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, utilising the system. In another implementation, the computing device [200] itself implements the method for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations, using one or more units configured within the computing device [200], wherein said one or more units are capable of implementing the features as disclosed in the present 30 disclosure.
18
[0070]
The computing device [200] may include a bus [202] or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware processor [204] coupled with bus [202] for processing information. The hardware processor [204] may be, for example, a general-purpose microprocessor. The 5 computing device [200] may also include a main memory [206], such as a random-access memory (RAM), or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus [202] for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor [204]. The main memory [206] also may be used for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of the instructions to be executed by the 10 processor [204]. Such instructions, when stored in non-transitory storage media accessible to the processor [204], render the computing device [200] into a special-purpose machine that is customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions. The computing device [200] further includes a read only memory (ROM) [208] or other static storage device coupled to the bus [202] for storing static 15 information and instructions for the processor [204].
[0071]
A storage device [210], such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or solid-state drive is provided and coupled to the bus [202] for storing information and instructions. The computing device [200] may be coupled via the bus [202] to a 20 display [212], such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), Liquid crystal Display (LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, Organic LED (OLED) display, etc. for displaying information to a computer user. An input device [214], including alphanumeric and other keys, touch screen input means, etc. may be coupled to the bus [202] for communicating information and command selections to the processor 25 [204]. Another type of user input device may be a cursor controller [216], such as a mouse, a trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor [204], and for controlling cursor movement on the display [212]. The input device typically has two degrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), that allow 30 the device to specify positions in a plane.
19
[0072]
The computing device [200] may implement the techniques described herein using customized hard-wired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware, and/or program logic which in combination with the computing device [200] causes or programs the computing device [200] to be a special-purpose machine. 5 According to one implementation, the techniques herein are performed by the computing device [200] in response to the processor [204] executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the main memory [206]. Such instructions may be read into the main memory [206] from another storage medium, such as the storage device [210]. Execution of the sequences of instructions 10 contained in the main memory [206] causes the processor [204] to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative implementations of the present disclosure, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions.
15
[0073]
The computing device [200] also may include a communication interface [218] coupled to the bus [202]. The communication interface [218] provides a two-way data communication coupling to a network link [220] that is connected to a local network [222]. For example, the communication interface [218] may be an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, cable modem, satellite modem, or 20 a modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communication interface [218] may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation, the communication interface [218] sends and receives electrical, 25 electromagnetic, or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.
[0074]
The computing device [200] can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), the network link [220] and the 30 communication interface [218]. In the Internet example, a server [230] might
20
transmit a requested code for an application program through the Internet [
228], the ISP [226], the Host [224], the local network [222] and the communication interface [218]. The received code may be executed by the processor [204] as it is received, and/or stored in the storage device [210], or other non-volatile storage for later execution. 5
[0075]
Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary block diagram of a system [300] for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations is shown, in accordance with the exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. The system [300] comprises at least one cell database [302] and at least 10 one self-optimizing network (SON) server [304]. The SON server [304] may further include at least one transceiver unit [304a], at least one analysis unit [304c], at least one resolution unit [304b] and at least one selection unit [304d]. Also, all of the components/ units of the system [300] are assumed to be connected to each other unless otherwise indicated below. As shown in the figures all units shown within 15 the system should also be assumed to be connected to each other. Also, in FIG. 3 only a few units are shown, however, the system [300] may comprise multiple such units or the system [300] may comprise any such numbers of said units, as required to implement the features of the present disclosure. Further, in an implementation, the system [300] may be present in a user device to implement the features of the 20 present disclosure. The system [300] may be a part of the user device / or may be independent of but in communication with the user device (may also referred herein as a UE). In another implementation, the system [300] may reside in a server or a network entity. In yet another implementation, the system [300] may reside partly in the server/ network entity and partly in the user device. 25
[0076]
The system [300] is configured for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations with the help of the interconnection between the components/units of the system [300].
30
21
[0077]
It may be noted that, although the present invention has been explained in the context of Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) resolution between the two base stations, however, it may be noted that the same is done only for the sake of clarity and explanation, and in no manner to be construed to limit the scope of the present subject matter. The present subject matter may be implemented to the PCI conflict 5 resolution between any number of the base stations, and all such examples would lie within the scope of the present subject matter.
[0078]
The system [300] for resolution of the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between the base stations comprises a self-optimizing network (SON) server [304]. 10 The SON server [304] further comprising a transceiver unit [304a] configured to receive a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI. The present disclosure encompasses the term Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) which refers to a numerical identifier used in cellular networks 15 to distinguish between different cell sectors within an area. Each base station in a network is assigned a unique PCI to avoid interference and ensure proper communication with User Equipment (UE) and the SON server [304] within the self-optimizing network responsible for managing and resolving the PCI conflicts. The PCI Conflict arises when the UE experiences difficulty in distinguishing 20 between signals from the different base stations that have the same Physical Cell Identifier (PCI).
[0079]
The transceiver unit [304a] is an interface module configured to receive and transmit data. It receives resolution requests for the PCI conflicts. In one example, 25 the first base station is a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected, and the second base station is a neighbour base station connected to the source base station. In such case, the PCI conflict is referred to as PCI collision conflict. The collision conflict occurs when two or more base stations within the same area are assigned the same the Physical Cell Identifier. In another example, 30 the first base station is a first neighbour base station, and the second base station is
22
a second neighbour base station, wherein each of the first neighbour base station
, and the second neighbour base stations are connected to the source base station to which the User Equipment (UE) is connected. In such case, the PCI conflict is referred to as PCI confusion conflict.
5
[0080]
Further, an analysis unit [304c] may be connected to at least the transceiver unit [304a]. The analysis unit [304c] may be configured to determine a distance between the first base station and the second base station. The present disclosure encompasses an analysis unit [304c], wherein the analysis unit [304c] refers to the processing module that calculates the distance between conflicting base stations. 10
[0081]
Further, a resolution unit [304b] may be connected to at least the analysis unit [304c], the resolution unit [304b] is configured to initiate a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold. The present disclosure 15 encompasses the resolution unit [304b] that initiates the conflict resolution process if the distance between the conflicting base stations is less than the pre-defined threshold. The pre-defined threshold refers to a maximum allowable distance between the base stations having the same Physical Cell Identifier (PCI). The analysis unit [304c] of the SON server [304] uses this threshold to determine if the 20 distance between the first and the second base stations with the identical PCIs requires a conflict resolution process. If the distance is below this threshold, the resolution unit [304b] initiates the conflict resolution procedures.
[0082]
For Example: If the pre-defined threshold is set to 500 meters, any number 25 of base stations with the same PCI within 500 meters of each other will trigger a conflict resolution process.
[0083]
Further, to initiate the conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station, the resolution unit [304b] is further configured 30 to transmit the resolution request to the cell database and during a pre-defined
23
maintenance time window, receive, from the cell database, the resolution request.
The pre-defined maintenance time window is the designated timeframe during which the SON server [304] performs tasks such as changing the PCI of the base station to resolve the conflicts. The resolution request is a formal communication or signal sent to the self-optimizing network (SON) server [304], initiating the 5 process to resolve the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between the two or more base stations. The resolution request contains essential information about the conflict, such as the identities and the locations of the conflicting base stations, and the nature of the conflict (e.g., PCI collision or PCI confusion). Upon receiving a resolution request, the SON server [304] analyses the situation and undertakes 10 necessary actions to mitigate the conflict.
[0084]
For Example: The pre-defined maintenance time window might be set from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM daily, a period typically associated with low network traffic.
15
[0085]
The SON server [304] may further include a selection unit [304d] configured to select, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number, wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base 20 station, from a cell database [302]. The present disclosure encompasses selection unit [304d] that engages in selecting the appropriate base station for the PCI change and determining the new PCI to be assigned, based on the additional criteria like the active device count and the cell data volume. The active device count is the number of active devices connected to the base station. The cell data volume is the 25 volume of data handled by the base station. The selection of one of the first base station and the second base station for changing the PCI number; selection of the new PCI number for the final base station; and communication of the new PCI number to the final base station, occurs during a pre-defined maintenance time-window. This determining whether the first base station or the second base station 30 will change its PCI and choosing the new PCI number for the selected base station
24
from a pool of available PCI numbers and transmitting the new PCI number to the
selected base station. These actions are performed during the pre-defined maintenance time-window to minimize disruption to network operations.
[0086]
Further, the selection unit [304d] may select a new PCI number for the final 5 base station from the pool of one or more available PCI numbers and wherein the transceiver unit [304a] is further configured to communicate, the new PCI number to the final base station. The present disclosure encompasses for selecting the new Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number for a designated base station, known as the final base station, from the pool of available PCI numbers. For the selection of the 10 final base station, the selection unit [304d] is configured to retrieve the active device count and the cell data volume of the first base station and the active device count and the cell data volume of the second base station from the cell database [302] select the final base station for changing the PCI number, wherein the final base station is one of the base station, among the first base station and the second base 15 station, with a lower active device count, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is different and the final base station is one of the base stations, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower cell data volume, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station 20 is same. This selection is conducted by the selection unit [304d], which retrieves the data from the cell database [302] including the active device count and the cell data volume of the first and the second base stations involved in the conflict. The final base station is then chosen based on specific criteria i.e., either the base station with the lower active device count if the counts differ, or the one with the lower cell 25 data volume if the active device counts are the same. For the selection of the new PCI number for the final base station from the pool of one or more available PCI numbers, the selection unit [304d] is configured to determine a predefined number of top ranked neighbour base stations from a set of all neighbour base stations, using a neighbour relation table (NRT) of the final base station check whether a candidate 30 PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the
25
set of all
neighbour base stations, perform one of the check procedure in an event the candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base station, and select the candidate PCI number as the new PCI number, in an event the candidate PCI number is different from the PCI number of each neighbour base station in the set of all neighbour base stations, 5 wherein to perform the check procedure, the selection unit [104d] is configured to perform reiteratively, the following steps till each predefined condition in a set of predefined conditions, is satisfied select randomly the candidate PCI number from the pool of the one or more available PCI numbers. The Neighbour Relation Table contains information about neighbour base stations in a cellular network. It 10 typically includes data such as the identities of neighbour base stations, their respective signal strengths. The NRT table is used by the selection unit [304d] to determine neighbour base stations for the final base station involved in the PCI conflict resolution process. The physical cell Identifier number is a unique identifier assigned to each cell sector within the cellular network. The PCI number helps 15 distinguish between the different cells, allowing the mobile devices to identify and connect to the appropriate base station and check for each of the determined top ranked neighbours of the final base station. The pre-defined condition comprise the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration, a first modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as 20 that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration and a second modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration. It checks for conflicts with the candidate PCI number and the neighbour base stations. If conflicts arise, a check procedure is executed iteratively until predefined conditions are met. These conditions ensure 25 that the candidate PCI number selected is different from those of the neighbour base stations and satisfies the specific modulus requirements (first modulo operation and second modulo operation). The Mod 3 operation involves finding the remainder when the PCI number is divided by 3. The goal is to ensure that the new PCI number has a different remainder when divided by 3 compared to the PCIs of the neighbour 30 base stations. The Mod 4 similar to mod 3, mod 4 involves finding the remainder
26
when the PCI number is divided by 4. These modulus operations are used by the
selection unit [304d] to check the compatibility of the candidate PCI numbers with the neighbour base stations during the PCI conflict resolution process. If the candidate PCI number satisfies the mod 3 and the mod 4 criteria by having different remainders compared to the neighbouring PCIs, it is deemed suitable for selection 5 as the new PCI number for the base station. These top-ranked base stations may be selected based on the factors such as signal strength, proximity, or other network performance metrics.
[0087]
Referring to FIG. 4, an exemplary method flow diagram [400] for resolution 10 of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations in accordance with exemplary implementations of the present disclosure is shown. In an implementation the method [400] is performed by the system [300]. Further, in an implementation, the system [300] may be present in a server device to implement the features of the present disclosure. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the method [400] 15 starts at step [402].
[0088]
At step 404, receiving, by a transceiver unit [304a] of a self-optimizing network (SON) server [304], a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station 20 and the second base station has an identical PCI. The present disclosure encompasses the term Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) which refers to a numerical identifier used in cellular networks to distinguish between different cell sectors within an area. Each base station in a network is assigned a unique PCI to avoid interference and ensure proper communication with User Equipment (UE) and the 25 SON server [304] within the self-optimizing network responsible for managing and resolving the PCI conflicts. The conflict occurs when two or more base stations within the same area are assigned the same Physical Cell Identifier.
[0089]
The transceiver unit [304a] is an interface module configured to receive and 30 transmit data. It receives resolution requests for the PCI conflicts. In one example,
27
t
he first base station is a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected, and the second base station is a neighbour base station connected to the source base station. In such cases, the PCI conflict is a PCI collision conflict. In another example, the first base station is a first neighbour base station, and the second base station is a second neighbour base station, wherein each of the first 5 neighbour base station and the second neighbour base stations are connected to the source base station to which the User Equipment (UE) is connected. In such cases, the PCI conflict is a PCI confusion conflict.
[0090]
At step 406, determining, by an analysis unit [304c] of the SON server 10 [304], a distance between the first base station and the second base station. The present disclosure encompasses an analysis unit [304c] refers to the processing module that calculates the distance between conflicting base stations.
[0091]
At step 408, in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined 15 threshold, initiating, a resolution unit [304b] of the SON server [304], a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station. The present disclosure encompasses the resolution unit [304b] that initiates the conflict resolution process if the distance between the conflicting base stations is less than the pre-defined threshold. The pre-defined threshold refers to a maximum allowable 20 distance between the base stations having the same Physical Cell Identifier (PCI). The analysis unit [304c] of the SON server [304] uses this threshold to determine if the distance between the first and the second base stations with the identical PCIs requires a conflict resolution process. If the distance is below this threshold, the resolution unit [304b] initiates the conflict resolution procedures. 25
[0092]
For Example: If the pre-defined threshold is set to 500 meters, any number of base stations with the same PCI within 500 meters of each other will trigger a conflict resolution process.
30
28
[0093]
Further, to initiate the conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station, the resolution unit [304b] is further configured to transmit the resolution request to the cell database and during a pre-defined maintenance time window, receive, from the cell database, the resolution request. The pre-defined maintenance time window is the designated timeframe during 5 which the SON server [304] performs tasks such as changing the PCI of the base station to resolve the conflicts. The resolution request is a formal communication or signal sent to the self-optimizing network (SON) server [304], initiating the process to resolve the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between the two or more base stations. The resolution request contains essential information about the 10 conflict, such as the identities and the locations of the conflicting base stations, and the nature of the conflict (e.g., PCI collision or PCI confusion). Upon receiving a resolution request, the SON server [304] analyses the situation and undertakes necessary actions to mitigate the conflict.
15
[0094]
For Example: The pre-defined maintenance time window might be set from 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM daily, a period typically associated with low network traffic.
[0095]
At step 410, selecting, by a selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for 20 changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database [302]. The present disclosure encompasses selection unit [304d] that engages in selecting the appropriate base station for the PCI change and determining the new 25 PCI to be assigned, based on the additional criteria like the active device count and the cell data volume. The active device count is the number of active devices connected to the base station and the cell data volume is the volume of data handled by a base station.
30
29
[0096]
At step 412, selecting, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers. This determining whether the first base station or the second base station will change its PCI and choosing the new PCI number for the selected base station from a pool of available PCI numbers and transmitting the new PCI number 5 to the selected base station. These actions are performed during the pre-defined maintenance time-window to minimize disruption to network operations.
[0097]
At step 414, communicating, by the transceiver unit [304a] of the SON server [304], the new PCI number to the final base station. 10
[0098]
Further, select, a new PCI number for the final base station from the pool of one or more available PCI numbers and wherein the transceiver unit [304a] further communicates, the new PCI number to the final base station. The present disclosure encompasses for selecting the new Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number for a 15 designated base station, known as the final base station, from the pool of available PCI numbers, wherein for the selection of the final base station, the selection unit [304d] is configured to retrieve the active device count and the cell data volume of the first base station and the active device count and the cell data volume of the second base station from the cell database [302] select the final base station for 20 changing the PCI number, wherein the final base station is one of the base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower active device count, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is different and the final base station is one of the base stations, among the first base station and the second base station, with a 25 lower cell data volume, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is same. This selection is conducted by the selection unit [304d], which retrieves the data from the cell database [302] including the active device count and the cell data volume of the first and the second base stations involved in the conflict. The final base station is 30 then chosen based on specific criteria i.e., either the base station with the lower
30
active device count if the counts differ, or the one with the lower cell data volume
if the active device counts are the same. For the selection of the new PCI number for the final base station from the pool of one or more available PCI numbers, the selection unit [304d] determines a predefined number of top ranked neighbour base stations from a set of all neighbour base stations, using a neighbour relation table 5 (NRT) of the final base station check whether a candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations, perform one of the check procedure in an event the candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations, and select the candidate PCI number as the new PCI 10 number, in an event the candidate PCI number is different from the PCI number of each neighbour base station in the set of all neighbour base stations, wherein to perform the check procedure, the selection unit [304d] is configured to perform reiteratively, the following steps till each predefined condition in a set of predefined conditions, is satisfied select randomly the candidate PCI number from the pool of 15 the one or more available PCI numbers. The Neighbour Relation Table contains information about neighbour base stations in a cellular network. It typically includes data such as the identities of neighbour base stations, their respective signal strengths. The NRT table is used by the selection unit [304d] to determine neighbour base stations for the final base station involved in the PCI conflict 20 resolution process. The physical cell Identifier number is a unique identifier assigned to each cell sector within the cellular network. The PCI number helps distinguish between the different cells, allowing the mobile devices to identify and connect to the appropriate base station and check for each of the determined top ranked neighbours of the final base station. The pre-defined condition comprise the 25 candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration, a first modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration and a second modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration. It checks for conflicts with the candidate PCI 30 number and the neighbour base stations. If conflicts arise, a check procedure is
31
executed iteratively until predefined conditions are met. These conditions ensure
that the candidate PCI number selected is different from those of the neighbour base stations and satisfies the specific modulus requirements (first modulo operation and second modulo operation). The Mod 3 operation involves finding the remainder when the PCI number is divided by 3. The goal is to ensure that the new PCI number 5 has a different remainder when divided by 3 compared to the PCIs of neighbour base stations. The Mod 4 similar to mod 3, mod 4 involves finding the remainder when the PCI number is divided by 4. These modulus operations are used by the selection unit [304d] to check the compatibility of candidate PCI numbers with neighbour base stations during the PCI conflict resolution process. If the candidate 10 PCI number satisfies the mod 3 and the mod 4 criteria by having different remainders compared to the neighbouring PCIs, it is deemed suitable for selection as the new PCI number for the base station. These top-ranked base stations may be selected based on the factors such as signal strength, proximity, or other network performance metrics. 15
[0099]
Thereafter, the method terminates at step 416.
[0100]
Referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary flow diagram [500], for PCI collision resolution, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention is 20 shown.
[0101]
At step S1, a SON server [304] receives a collision request (NR_NBR_PCI_COLLISI_ON_IND) from a source gNB.
25
[0102]
At step S2, the SON server [304] further fetches the gNB details comprising target gNodeB details from a cell database.
[0103]
At step S3, the SON server [304] determines distance between the colliding gNodeBs i.e. a first gNodeB and a second gNodeB, wherein both first gNodeB and 30 the second gNodeB has the same PCI value assigned thereto.
32
[0104]
At step S4, if determined distance is less than a threshold, then at step S5, the C-SON server moves the request for resolution and reports the status to the gNodeB, i.e., the resolution request is moved to a database of the gNodeB.
5
[0105]
At step S6, the SON server [304] selecting one of the colliding gNodeBs for changing PCI number during maintenance window defined by a user.
[0106]
At step S7, the SON server [304] finds the new PCI number for selected gNodeB. 10
[0107]
At step S8, a new PCI communication is sent to selected gNodeB.
[0108]
Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary flow diagram [600], for PCI confusion resolution, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention is 15 shown.
[0109]
At step S1, a SON server [304] receives a confusion request (i.e., NR_NBR_PCI_CONFUSION_REPORT_IND) from the source gNB.
20
[0110]
At step S2, the SON server [304] fetches the details comprising a third target gNodeB and a fourth target gNodeB details from a cell database [302], wherein both the third target gNodeB and the fourth target gNodeB have same PCI number assigned thereto.
25
[0111]
At step S3, the SON server [304] determines distance between the third target gNodeB and the fourth target gNodeB.
[0112]
At step S4, if determined distance is less than the threshold, then at the step S5, the C-SON moves the request for Resolution and reports the status to the 30
33
gNodeB, i.e., the
resolution request is moved to a database of the gNodeB (at step S5).
[0113]
At step S6, the SON server [304] selects one of the third gNodeB and the fourth gNodeB for changing the PCI number during maintenance window. 5
[0114]
At step S7, the SON server [304] finds new PCI number for the selected gNodeB and the new PCI number communicated to the selected gNodeB.
[0115]
Referring to FIG. 7, an exemplary flow diagram [700], for selecting a 10 gNodeB for the PCI resolution, in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown.
[0116]
At step S1: The process begins with the CSON (Centralized Self Organizing Network) system retrieving the active UE count and the cell data volume from the 15 EMS (Element Management System) for two gNodeBs, denoted as the gNB1 and the gNB2.
[0117]
At step S2: This step involves comparing the UE counts of the gNB1 and the gNB2. Condition Statement: Is the UE count of the gNB1 less than the UE count 20 of gNB2?
Yes: If the UE count of gNB1 is less than that of gNB2, proceed to Step S3.
No: If the UE count of gNB1 is not less than that of gNB2, proceed to Decision Point S4.
25
[0118]
At Step S3: When the UE count of the gNB1 is determined to be less than that of gNB2, gNB1 is selected for the PCI update. This selection is based on the principle that a gNodeB with a lower UE count is less congested and may benefit more from a PCI update.
30
34
[0119]
At step S4: This decision point is activated if the UE count of the gNB1 is not less than that of the gNB2. Condition Statement: Is the UE count of gNB1 equal to the UE count of the gNB2?
Yes: If the UE counts are equal, proceed to Decision Point S5.
No: If the UE count of the gNB1 is greater than that of the gNB2, the gNB2 is 5 automatically selected for the PCI update.
[0120]
At step S5: This decision point compares the cell data volumes of the gNB1 and the gNB2.
Condition Statement: Is the cell data volume of gNB1 less than the cell data volume 10 of gNB2?
Yes: If the cell data volume of gNB1 is less than that of gNB2, gNB1 is selected for the PCI update at S3.
No: If the cell data volume of gNB1 is not less than that of gNB2, gNB2 is selected for the PCI update at step S6. 15
[0121]
The solution evaluates both the UE count and the cell data volume to decide which gNodeB should undergo a PCI update.
[0122]
Referring to FIG. 8, a flow diagram [800], to find new valid PCI value, in 20 accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown.
[0123]
At step S1, a SON server [304] picks a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) (new PCI) from a pool containing available PCIs for assigning to a gNodeB (base station). The new PCI is selected for PCI update for resolving the conflict between 25 the first base station and the second base station.
[0124]
At step S2, the SON server [304] determines a predefined number (X) (for example, say, 2 neighbours) of top ranked neighbours (NBRs) from NRT of the gNodeB selected for updating the PCI. 30
35
[0125]
At Step S3: Check whether the new PCI is equal to the predefined number of (for example, say 2 neighbours) neighbours’ PCI
If "Yes," loop back to Step S1. If "No," continue to Step S4.
[0126]
At Step S4: Check whether modulo 3 of the new PCI is equal to the modulo 5 3 of the predefined number of the neighbours’ PCI. If "Yes," loop back to Step S1. If "No," continue to Step S5.
[0127]
At Step S5: Check whether modulo 4 of the new PCI is equal to the modulo 4 of the predefined number of the neighbours’ PCI. If "Yes," loop back to Step S16. 10 If "No," return to Step S2 to pick the next top ranked 2 NBRs.
[0128]
At Step S6: Confirm if all NBRs have been iterated. At Step S7: Pick another neighbour from the NRT.
15
[0129]
At Step S8: Check whether new PCI is equal to predefined number of neighbours’ PCI. If "Yes," proceed to Step S2. If "No," continue to Step S9.
[0130]
At Step S9: Verify if all neighbours (NBRs) have been iterated. If "Yes," proceed to Step S10. If "No," loop back to Step S7. 20
[0131]
At Step S10: Assign the "new PCI" to eNB A.
[0132]
Thus, solution provides a method for selecting a PCI, with specific condition checks ensuring that the optimal PCI is chosen through a systematic and iterative 25 process.
[0133]
The present disclosure further relate to a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations the instructions include executable code which, 30 when executed by a one or more units of a system [300], wherein the system [300]
36
comprise a SON server [304]
, causes: a transceiver unit [304a] of the SON server [304] to receive a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI; an analysis unit [304c] of the SON server [304] to determine a distance between the first base station and the second base 5 station; a resolution unit [304b] of the SON server [304] to initiate a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold; a selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304] to select, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier 10 (PCI) number, wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database; the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304] to select a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers; and the transceiver unit [304a] of the 15 SON server [304] to communicate, the new PCI number to the final base station.
[0134]
As is evident from the above, the present disclosure provides a technically advanced solution for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between base stations. The method and the system disclosed by the present disclosure 20 automatically resolves PCI collision. Further, the method and the system disclosed by the present disclosure automatically resolves PCI confusion. The method and the system disclosed by the present disclosure further allows PCI collision and/or PCI confusion resolution in a user specified maintenance window to avoid changing configuration in peak hours. 25
[0135]
While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the disclosed implementations, it will be appreciated that many implementations can be made and that many changes can be made to the implementations without departing from the principles of the present disclosure. These and other changes in the implementations 30 of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, whereby it is to
37
be understood that the foregoing descriptive matter to be implemented is illustrative
and non-limiting.
[0136]
Further, in accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be acknowledged that the functionality described for the various components/units can be 5 implemented interchangeably. While specific embodiments may disclose a particular functionality of these units for clarity, it is recognized that various configurations and combinations thereof are within the scope of the disclosure. The functionality of specific units as disclosed in the disclosure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Consequently, alternative 10 arrangements and substitutions of units, provided they achieve the intended functionality described herein, are considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.
We Claim:
1. A method for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between
base stations, the method comprising:
- receiving, by a transceiver unit [304a] of a self-optimizing network (SON) server [304], a resolution request for resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station, wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI;
- determining, by an analysis unit [304c] of the SON server [304], a distance between the first base station and the second base station;
- in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold, initiating, a resolution unit [304b] of the SON server [304], a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station;
- selecting, by a selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database [302];
- selecting, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers; and
- communicating, by the transceiver unit [304a] of the SON server [304], the new PCI number to the final base station.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
- the first base station is a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected; and
- the second base station is a neighbour base station, the neighbour base station connected to the source base station.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the PCI conflict is a PCI collision conflict.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
- the first base station is a first neighbour base station, and the second base
station is a second neighbour base station, wherein each of the first
neighbour base station and the second neighbour base station are
connected to a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is
connected.
5. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the PCI conflict is a PCI confusion conflict.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1, in an event the determined distance is less than the pre-defined threshold, initiating the conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station comprises:

- transmitting the resolution request to the cell database; and
- during a pre-defined maintenance time window, receiving, from the cell database, the resolution request.
7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the steps of selecting one of the
first base station and the second base station for changing the PCI number
comprises:
- selecting the new PCI number for the final base station; and
- communicating the new PCI number to the final base station, are performed during a pre-defined maintenance time-window.
8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selecting, by the selection
unit [304d] of the SON server [304], the final base station, comprises:

- retrieving, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], the active device count and the cell data volume of the first base station and the active device count and the cell data volume of the second base station from the cell database [302]; and
- selecting, by the selection unit [04d] of the SON server [304], for changing the PCI number, the final base station, wherein the final base station is one of:
o a base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower active device count, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is different; and
o a base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower cell data volume, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is same.
9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the selecting, by selection unit
[304d] of the SON server [304], the new PCI number for the final base station from the pool of one or more available PCI numbers, comprises:
- determining, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a predefined number of top ranked neighbour base stations from a set of all neighbour base stations, using a neighbour relation table (NRT) of the final base station;
- checking, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], whether a candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations;
- performing, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], one of:
o a check procedure in an event the candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations, and

o selecting, by the SON server [304], the candidate PCI number as the new PCI number, in an event the candidate PCI number is different from the PCI number of each neighbour base station in the set of all neighbour base stations.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the check procedure comprises:
performing reiteratively, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], the
following steps till each predefined condition in a set of predefined conditions, is
satisfied:
- selecting randomly, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], a candidate PCI number from the pool of the one or more available PCI numbers; and
- checking, by the selection unit [304d] of the SON server [304], for each of the determined top ranked neighbours of the final base station, the pre¬defined conditions.
11. The method as claimed in claim 10, wherein the pre-defined conditions
comprise:
- the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration;
- a first modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration; and
- a second modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration.
12. A system for resolution of a Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) conflict between
base stations, the system comprising a self-optimizing network (SON) server [304],
the SON server [304] further comprising:
- a transceiver unit [304a] configured to receive a resolution request for
resolving a conflict between a first base station and a second base station,

wherein each of the first base station and the second base station has an identical PCI;
- an analysis unit [304c] connected to at least the transceiver unit [304a], the analysis unit [304c] configured to determine a distance between the first base station and the second base station;
- a resolution unit [304b] connected to at least the analysis unit [304c], the resolution unit [304b] configured to initiate a conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station in an event the determined distance is less than a pre-defined threshold;
- a selection unit [304d] connected to at least the resolution unit [304b], the selection unit [304d] configured to:
o select, a final base station from among the first base station and the second base station for changing the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) number, wherein the selection is based on an active device count and a cell data volume of the first base station and an active device count and a cell data volume of the second base station, from a cell database [302];
o select, a new PCI number for the final base station from a pool of one or more available PCI numbers; and
- the transceiver unit [304] is further configured to communicate, the new
PCI number to the final base station.
13. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein:
- the first base station is a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is connected; and
- the second base station is a neighbour base station, the neighbour base station connected to the source base station.
14. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the PCI conflict is a PCI
collision conflict.

15. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein:
- the first base station is a first neighbour base station, and the second base
station is a second neighbour base station, wherein each of the first
neighbour base station and the second neighbour base stations are
connected to a source base station to which a User Equipment (UE) is
connected.
16. The system as claimed in claim 15, wherein the PCI conflict is a PCI confusion conflict.
17. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein to initiate the conflict resolution process between the first base station and the second base station, the resolution unit [304b] is further configured to:

- transmit the resolution request to the cell database; and
- during a pre-defined maintenance time window, receive, from the cell database, the resolution request.

18. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein the selection of one of the first base station and the second base station for changing the PCI number; selection of the new PCI number for the final base station; and communication of the new PCI number to the final base station, occurs during a pre-defined maintenance time-window.
19. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein for the selection of the final base station, the selection unit [304d] is configured to:

- retrieve the active device count and the cell data volume of the first base station and the active device count and the cell data volume of the second base station from the cell database [302]
- select the final base station for changing the PCI number, wherein the final base station is one of:

o a base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower active device count, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is different; and
o a base station, among the first base station and the second base station, with a lower cell data volume, in an event the active device count of the first base station and the active device count of the second base station is same.
20. The system as claimed in claim 12, wherein for the selection of the new PCI
number for the final base station from the pool of one or more available PCI
numbers, the selection unit [304d] is configured to:
- determine a predefined number of top ranked neighbour base stations from a set of all neighbour base stations, using a neighbour relation table (NRT) of the final base station;
- check whether a candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations; and
- perform one of:
o a check procedure in an event the candidate PCI number is same as the PCI number of any of the neighbour base stations in the set of all neighbour base stations, and
o select the candidate PCI number as the new PCI number, in an event the candidate PCI number is different from the PCI number of each neighbour base station in the set of all neighbour base stations.
21. The system as claimed in claim 20, wherein to perform the check procedure,
the selection unit [304d] is configured to perform reiteratively, the following steps
till each predefined condition in a set of predefined conditions, is satisfied:

- select randomly a candidate PCI number from the pool of the one or more available PCI numbers; and
- check for each of the determined top ranked neighbours of the final base station, the pre-defined conditions.
22. The system as claimed in claim 21, wherein the pre-defined conditions
comprise:
- the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration;
- a first modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration; and
- a second modulo operation value of the candidate PCI number is different as that of the top ranked neighbour of the current iteration.