Patent Description:
Service providers can use fiber optic cable, for example, to connect many cell sites to the core network for cellular backhaul. Wired backhauls that utilize fiber and/or copper cabling, however, are expensive and time-consuming to deploy. In many cases, such as for some rural applications, certain small cell deployments, and/or temporarily extending network capacity, it is not cost effective to deploy a wired backhaul. Wireless backhaul such as microwaves can be used as an alternative backhaul to service these cell sites Microwave backhaul can use high frequency bands such as <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. As an example, a recent Fifth Generation (<NUM>) technology, namely millimeter wave (mmW), can be allocated in the same <NUM> band as the microwave. Common coexistence scenario of <NUM> <NUM> cell sites and <NUM> microwave backhauls, often from cross service providers, may create interferences issue. The cited prior art document "<NPL>, discloses various enhancements to support New Radio backhaul links. The cited prior art document "<NPL> discloses the possibility of Over-the-air (OTA) coordination between rTRPs to mitigate interference and support end-to-end route selection and optimization. The cited prior art document "<NPL> discloses Updates to TS <NUM> which specifies and establishes the characteristics of the physical layer procedures for control operations in <NUM>-NR.

Accordingly, there is provided a method as defined in the claims.

The systems, devices, and techniques described herein are directed to detecting and/or mitigating interference in a wireless network. For example, a wireless network may include any number of devices such as a base station(s) in communication with one or more user equipment (UE), and one or more microwave backhaul transceivers. In some examples, the base station may comprise a Fifth Generation base station configured to communicate with a UE via a millimeter frequency resource. In some examples, the microwave backhaul transceivers may communicate via a same or similar millimeter frequency resources. Because the base station(s), UE(s), and the microwave backhaul transceiver(s) may use a same or similar frequency resource, the devices may cause interference in some situations. In some examples, interference can be measured to determine an expected interference based on location(s) of various base stations, user equipment, and/or microwave backhaul transceivers in an environment. Based at least in part on locations of the devices in an environment, a wireless resource can be selected or otherwise determined for one or more components of the network to mitigate interference in the network. Further, in some examples, interference can be detected in flexible portions of a wireless communication. Additionally, wireless communication(s) may include an identification of a serving base station, for example, such that when interference is detected (during a flexible portion or otherwise) wireless resources associated with a particular base station, UE, and/or microwave backhaul transceiver can be mitigated.

An environment may include, but is not limited to, a first microwave backhaul transceiver in communication with a second microwave backhaul transceiver. Further, the environment may include a base station (e.g., a <NUM> base station) in communication with a UE. In some examples, the microwave backhaul transceivers may communicate via a first channel that is adjacent to a second channel used by the base station and the UE. In some examples, the microwave backhaul transceivers, the base stations, and the UEs may use "millimeter wave" frequency resources on the order of <NUM> -<NUM>. In some examples, a base station may use a channel that is adjacent to a channel used by the microwave backhaul transceivers, which may introduce interference into the wireless networks.

As introduced above, interference can be predicted or otherwise determined based at least in part on a geometry of devices in an environment. Techniques to determine a layout of devices in the environment may include determining a location of the first microwave backhaul transceiver or the second microwave backhaul transceiver as well as a transmission direction associated with the particular microwave backhaul transceiver. Further, techniques may include determining a location of the base station as well as a transmission direction of the communication between the base station and the UE. A distance between the particular microwave backhaul transceiver and the base station can be determined as well as an angle associated with the transmission directions of the microwave backhaul transceiver and the base station. A wireless resource for the microwave backhaul transceiver, the base station, and/or the UE can be based at least in part on the distance(s) between the devices and/or the angle(s) associated with the transmissions. For example, techniques may include selecting a wireless channel, initiating a handover to another radio access technology (e.g., handover from a <NUM> transmission to a Fourth Generation (<NUM>) transmission), initiating a handover to another base station, and the like.

Techniques to detect interference may include monitoring for interference during a flexible period associated with a wireless communication. For example, the base station and the UE may communicate using time division duplexing (TDD) techniques in accordance with the <NUM> protocol. In some examples, the base station and the UE can select or otherwise determine a slot format to use for a wireless communication between the base station and the UE. In some examples, a slot format may include an uplink portion, a downlink portion, and/or a flexible portion. In some examples, a slot format may be in accordance with 3GPP Technical Specification <NUM>, Table <NUM>. <NUM>-<NUM>. Further, the techniques may further include sending an indication of the slot format to a sensor or computing device associated with the microwave backhaul transceiver, the base station, and/or the UE. The sensor may receive one or more signals in accordance with a wireless transmission. If the signal is received during a flexible portion (e.g., based on the slot format), techniques can include determining that the signal is received as interference at the sensor. Based on a frequency, power, modulation scheme, and the like, techniques can include determining that the signal is interference associated with the microwave backhaul transceiver received at the base station and/or UE. In some examples, techniques can include providing an indication to the transceiver, the base station, the UE, and/or another component to adjust one or more wireless resource to reduce interference.

Techniques to detect interference may further include detecting an identifier in an interfering signal received at a device. For example, in conjunction with a communication between a base station and a UE, the base station may instruct the UE to include an identifier in a transmission by the UE. For example, the base station can transmit an identifier associated with the base station to the UE for the UE to include in a transmission from the UE to the base station. Further, a microwave backhaul transceiver may include a sensor or computing device to detect interference from the UE at the microwave backhaul transceiver. In a case where the signal received at the microwave backhaul transceiver includes the identifier transmitted by the UE, the microwave backhaul transceiver may provide an indication to the base station, the UE, and/or another component to adjust one or more wireless resource to reduce interference.

In some examples, interference at a UE can be inferred or otherwise determined based on transmission characteristics of the UE. For example, interference at a UE can be determined based at least in part on a throughput associated with the UE (and/or a ratio between an actual throughput and a maximum or expected throughput), a signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR), received signal strength indication (RSSI), reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), uplink transmission power, and the like.

As noted above, interference can be based at least in part on location(s) of device(s) in an environment and/or on interference received and/or detected at a base station, UE, and/or a microwave backhaul transceiver. Further, such interference can be mitigated using a number of techniques. For example, interference can be mitigated by varying one or more wireless resources of the microwave backhaul transceiver, the base station, and/or the UE, including but not limited to a wireless channel (e.g., changing channels to introduce a guard band (or to increase a size of a guard band) between transmissions), a radio access technology (e.g., handing over from a <NUM> base station at a location to a <NUM> base station at the same location), a serving cell (e.g., handing over from a first base station associated with a first location to a second base station associated with a second location), varying a power or modulation scheme, and the like.

In some examples, a base station of the present disclosure can be configured for dual connectivity (e.g., EN-DC (E-UTRA - NR Dual Connectivity), NR-DC (New Radio Dual Connectivity), NGEN-DC (NG-RAN - E-UTRA Dual Connectivity) and/or NE-DC (NR - E-UTRA Dual Connectivity). By way of example and without limitation, an environment can include a first base station (e.g., a <NUM> base station) and a second base station (e.g., a <NUM> base station) configured to provide Non-Standalone Access (NSA) connections to UEs capable of such dual connectivity. In some examples, the base stations discussed herein can use frequency resources in at least one of an LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (e.g., a <NUM> band), an LTE Band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), and the like. In some instances, the frequency resources can include, but are not limited to, LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE or <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), and the like.

In some instances, frequency resources in the range of <NUM> - <NUM> can be referred as "low-band" and "mid-band. " In some instances, the frequency resources may include "millimeter wave" bands including, but not limited to <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the like. The techniques discussed herein are applicable to any frequency resources, and are not limited to those expressly recited above. For example, in some cases, frequency resources can include any licensed or unlicensed bands. Other examples of frequency resources may include those associated with <NUM>nd Generation (<NUM>) radio access technologies, <NUM>rd Generation (<NUM>) radio access technologies, and the like.

The systems, devices, and techniques described herein can reduce interference in a wireless network. Further, the techniques discussed herein can improve an overall throughput of a network by reducing an amount or size of a guard band in a network. Further, determining interference associated with a flexible portion of a wireless transmission may and/or receiving an identifier associated with an interfering signal may facilitate identifying interfering components to more accurately allocate wireless resources. In some cases, reducing interference can improve a quality of service (QoS) and/or a user experience associated with a wireless network. These and other improvements to the functioning of a computer and network are discussed herein.

The systems, devices, and techniques described herein can be implemented in a number of ways. In general, the techniques discussed herein may be implemented in any dual connectivity or multi connectivity environment, and are not limited to <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> environments. In some examples, an LTE base station can be considered a master base station and an NR base station can be considered a secondary base station, and vice versa. In some instances, a core network can be represented as a <NUM> core network and/or a <NUM> core network. In some instances, the techniques can be implemented in standalone implementations (e.g., Option <NUM> and/or <NUM>, as referred to by 3GPP) or in non-standalone implementations such as those referred to as Option <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, etc. by 3GPP. In some examples, the techniques discussed herein may be implemented outside a dual connectivity environment involving a single base station or network access technology and multiple bearers. Example implementations are provided below with reference to the following figures.

<FIG> illustrates an example environment <NUM> implementing interference detection and/or mitigation techniques according to implementations of the present disclosure.

As illustrated, the environment <NUM> includes a base station <NUM> in communication with a User Equipment (UE) <NUM> via connection <NUM>. The terms "user equipment (UE)," "user device ," "wireless communication device," "wireless device," "communication device," "mobile device," and "client device," can be used interchangeably to describe any UE (e.g., the UE <NUM>) that is capable of transmitting/receiving data wirelessly using any suitable wireless communications/data technology, protocol, or standard, such as Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Evolution-Data Optimized (EVDO), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE (LTE+), New Radio (NR), Generic Access Network (GAN), Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDM), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), evolved HSPA (HSPA+), Voice over IP (VoIP), VoLTE, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers' (IEEE) <NUM>. 1x protocols, WiMAX, Wi-Fi, Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS), digital subscriber line (DSL), CBRS, and/or any future Internet Protocol (IP)-based network technology or evolution of an existing IP-based network technology.

Examples of UEs (e.g., the UE <NUM>) can include, but are not limited to, smart phones, mobile phones, cell phones, tablet computers, portable computers, laptop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), electronic book devices, or any other portable electronic devices that can generate, request, receive, transmit, or exchange voice, video, and/or digital data over a network. Additional examples of UEs include, but are not limited to, smart devices such as televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, smart mirrors, coffee machines, lights, lamps, temperature sensors, leak sensors, water sensors, electricity meters, parking sensors, music players, headphones, or any other electronic appliances that can generate, request, receive, transmit, or exchange voice, video, and/or digital data over a network.

The base station <NUM> may be capable of transmitting and/or receiving data wirelessly using a first radio technology and a second radio technology. As used herein, the term "radio technology" can refer to a type, technique, specification, or protocol by which data is transmitted wirelessly. In some cases, a radio technology can specify which frequency bands are utilized to transmit data. For instance, a "<NUM> radio technology" can refer to the NR standard, as defined by 3GPP. In some cases, a "<NUM> radio technology" can refer to the LTE radio standard, as defined by 3GPP.

In particular examples, the base station <NUM> can utilize a <NUM> radio technology. The base station <NUM> may transmit and receive data via the connection <NUM> (e.g., at least one LTE radio link) that is defined according to frequency bands included in, but not limited to, a range of <NUM> to <NUM>. In some instances, the frequency bands utilized for the base station <NUM> can include, but are not limited to, LTE Band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM> GHz), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), LTE Band <NUM> (e.g., a <NUM> band), LTE Band <NUM> (<NUM>), and the like. In some examples, the base station <NUM> can be, or at least include, an eNodeB.

In some instances, the base station <NUM> can also utilize a <NUM> radio technology, such as technology specified in the <NUM> NR standard, as defined by 3GPP. In certain implementations, the base station <NUM> can transmit and receive communications with devices over to the connection <NUM> (e.g., at least one NR radio link) that is defined according to frequency resources including but not limited to <NUM> Band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), NR Band <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (e.g., a <NUM> band), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), <NUM> Band <NUM> (<NUM>), and the like. In some embodiments, the base station <NUM> can be, or at least include, a gNodeB.

In some implementations, the base station <NUM> is part of a Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture. For instance, the base station <NUM> may include both a <NUM> transceiver (e.g., an eNodeB) by which the base station <NUM> can establish LTE radio link(s) and a <NUM> transceiver (e.g., a gNodeB) by which the base station <NUM> can establish NR radio link(s). In some cases, functions (e.g., transmission intervals, transmission power, etc.) of the <NUM> transceiver and the <NUM> transceiver are coordinated by the base station <NUM>. In some examples, the base station <NUM> may include functionality to function as a Standalone (SA) architecture.

The base station <NUM> and/or the UE <NUM> may be capable of supporting <NUM> radio communications, such as LTE radio communications, and <NUM> radio communications, such as New Radio (NR) communications. In some examples, either or both of the base station <NUM> and the UE <NUM> may be configured to support at least one of enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) communications, Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLCs), or massive Machine Type Communications (mMTCs). In some instances, the one or more devices can include at least one device supporting one or more of a sensor network, voice services, smart city cameras, gigabytes-in-a-second communications, 3D video, <NUM> screens, work & play in the cloud, augmented reality, industrial and/or vehicular automation, mission critical broadband, or self-driving cars.

The environment <NUM> further includes microwave backhaul transceivers <NUM> and <NUM>. In some examples, the microwave backhaul transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> (also referred to as "transceivers") exchange data via a backhaul connection <NUM> (also referred to as a microwave backhaul communication). In some examples, the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> may be associated with the base station <NUM> (e.g., the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> may transmit data to and from the base station <NUM> to a core network via the connection <NUM>). In some examples, the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> can use a millimeter frequency for the connection <NUM> (e.g., <NUM>), although any frequency can be used. In some examples, the connection <NUM> can represent a line-of-sight connection between the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> and can exchange user plane and/or control plane data for a wireless network.

In some examples, the base station <NUM> may be associated with a first wireless provider and the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> may be associated with a second wireless provider that is separate from the first wireless provider.

According to various implementations, the base station <NUM> and/or the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> may communicate with a core network (not illustrated) that can include a <NUM> core network (e.g., an Evolved Packet Core (EPC)) and/or a <NUM> core network. Services may be relayed between the core network(s) and device(s) in the environment <NUM>. In some cases, the core network can provide the services, in turn, to and from at least one Wide Area Network (WAN) (such as the Internet), an Internet Protocol (IP) Media Subsystem (IMS) network, and the like. In various implementations, the services can include voice services, data services, and the like.

As introduced above, components of a <NUM> core network may include one or more components implemented in accordance with 3GPP <NUM> specifications, including but not limited to a Mobility Management Entity (MME), a Serving Gateway (SGW), a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway (PGW), a Home Subscriber Server (HSS), an Access Network Discovery and Selection Function (ANDSF), an evolved Packet Data Gateway (ePDG), a Data Network (DN), and the like. Further, in some examples, components of a <NUM> core network may include any of an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), a Session Management Function (SMF), a Policy Control Function (PCF), an Application Function (AF), an Authentication Server Function (AUSF), a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), a Unified Data Management (UDM), a Network Exposure Function (NEF), a Network Repository Function (NRF), a User Plane Function (UPF), a DN and the like.

As illustrated in <FIG>, each of the base station <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, and/or the transceiver <NUM> may comprise and/or may be associated with computing devices <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. Each computing device <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> may comprise an interference detection component <NUM> and an interference mitigation component <NUM>.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> can include functionality to detect interference from various components in the environment <NUM>. For example, the interference detection component <NUM> can detect interference from the base station <NUM> at the transceiver <NUM> or <NUM>; interference from the UE <NUM> at the transceiver <NUM> or <NUM>; interference from the transceiver <NUM> or <NUM> at the UE <NUM>; and/or interference from the transceiver <NUM> or <NUM> at the base station <NUM>.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> can detect, infer, or otherwise determine interference associated with location(s) of device(s) in an environment, as discussed in connection with <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and throughout this disclosure.

For example, the base station <NUM> may be located at a distance <NUM> away from the microwave backhaul transceiver <NUM>. In some examples, the base station <NUM> may be located perpendicular to the backhaul connection <NUM>, as indicated by the symbol <NUM>. That is, an angle formed by line segments based at least in part on the locations of the base station <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, and the transceiver <NUM> may correspond to a <NUM> degree angle (or may be within a threshold value of a <NUM> degree angle).

Further, the base station <NUM> may be located a distance <NUM> away from the microwave backhaul transceiver <NUM>.

An angle <NUM> associated with the connection <NUM> represents an angular difference between the connection <NUM> and the connection <NUM>.

A distance <NUM> represents a distance between the UE <NUM> and the microwave backhaul transceiver <NUM>.

The interference detection component <NUM> can receive information about the topology of the devices in the environment <NUM> to determine whether interference is likely. In some examples, the computing device <NUM> can receive a prior coordination notice about different devices in an environment. Based on the location of the devices and/or on wireless resources used by such devices, the interference mitigation component <NUM> may implement mitigation techniques, as discussed herein.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> may include a look up table or other interference models detailing expected interference based on various topologies. In some examples, such models can be based at least in part on measured interference levels measured while varying parameters (e.g., distances, angles, transmission power, channels, frequencies, guard band size, etc.).

For examples, if the distance <NUM>, the distance <NUM>, and/or the distance <NUM> is below one or more distance thresholds, and/or if the angle <NUM> is below an angle threshold, the interference detection component <NUM> can infer or determine that interference is likely to be present if a first frequency associated with the connection <NUM> is within a threshold frequency of a second frequency associated with the connection <NUM>.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> can detect interference associated with a flexible portion of a wireless transmission, as discussed in connection with <FIG> and throughout this disclosure.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> can detect interference associated with an identifier included with a wireless transmission, as discussed in connection with <FIG> and throughout this disclosure.

In some examples, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can include functionality to mitigate interference by and between components in the environment <NUM>. For example, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can mitigate interference by using techniques that may include selecting a wireless channel, initiating a handover to another radio access technology (e.g., handover from a <NUM> transmission to a Fourth Generation (<NUM>) transmission), initiating a handover to another base station, and the like.

In some examples, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can mitigate interference using a variety of techniques, as discussed in connection with <FIG> and throughout this disclosure.

<FIG> illustrates an example <NUM> of locations of components in a wireless network that may be associated with interference. The example <NUM> illustrates a topology whereby an angle defined by locations associated with the base station <NUM>, the microwave transceiver <NUM> and the microwave backhaul transceiver <NUM> does not form a <NUM> degree angle (or is outside of a threshold associated with a <NUM> degree angle).

The example <NUM> illustrates the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. The transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> are in communication via the connection <NUM>.

A distance <NUM> represents the distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM>. A distance <NUM> represents the distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM>. A distance <NUM> represents the distance between the UE <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM>.

An angle <NUM> represents an angle between the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location of the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM>. And angle <NUM> represents an angle between the connection <NUM> and the line segment defined by the location of the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM>.

Although discussed in the context of the transceiver <NUM>, angles and/or distances can be defined with respect to the transceiver <NUM>.

Further, an aggregated angle can be based at least in part on the angle <NUM> and the angle <NUM>. In some examples, an aggregated angle can comprise the sum of the angles <NUM> and <NUM>. In some examples, an aggregated angle can comprise an average, maximum, minimum, or other statistical aggregation of the angles <NUM> and <NUM>. In some examples, the angles <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or the aggregated angle can be evaluated with respect to one or more threshold angles to determine a likelihood of interference. Further, in some example, the distances <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> can be evaluated with respect to one or more distance thresholds to determine a likelihood of interference. In some examples, an aggregated angle can also be referred to as a transmission angle difference representing a difference associated with transmission direction associated with the base station and/or the transceivers.

<FIG> illustrate various relationships between components of wireless networks and corresponding interference.

For example, <FIG> illustrates a first environment <NUM> where a distance between component is relatively low but an angle between transmissions is relatively high, which may result in low interference. For example, the environment <NUM> includes the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> is in communication with the transceiver <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the UE <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location associated with the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as an angle <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and the line segment is represented as an angle <NUM>.

An aggregated angle can be based at least in part on the angles <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, an aggregated angle can represent a sum of the angles <NUM> and <NUM>.

In some examples, the interference detection component <NUM> can receive information about the distances <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> and/or the angles <NUM>, <NUM> and/or an aggregated angle to determine a likelihood of interference. Of course, the interference detection component <NUM> can receive information about a frequency associated with each of the connections <NUM> and <NUM>, as well as power levels, modulation schemes, modulation, duplexing (e.g., time division duplexing (TDD), frequency division duplexing (FDD)), and the like.

In the example <NUM>, the distances <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> (either individually and/or aggregated) may be below a distance threshold, which might indicate a likelihood of interference. However, the angles <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the aggregated angle may be above an angle threshold, which might indicate a low likelihood of interference. For the purposes of illustration, the example <NUM> may represent a topology whereby a low level of interference is associated with the connections <NUM> and/or <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a second environment <NUM> where a distance between component is relatively high but an angle between transmissions is relatively low, which may result in low interference. For example, the environment <NUM> includes the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> is in communication with the transceiver <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the UE <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location associated with the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as an angle <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and the line segment is represented as an angle <NUM>.

In the example <NUM>, the distances <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> (either individually and/or aggregated) may be above a distance threshold, which might indicate a low likelihood of interference. However, the angles <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the aggregated angle may be above an angle threshold, which might indicate a higher likelihood of interference. On balance, however, and for the purposes of illustration, the example <NUM> may represent a topology whereby a mid level of interference is associated with the connections <NUM> and/or <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a third environment <NUM> where a distance between component is relatively low and an angle between transmissions is relatively low, which may result in interference. For example, the environment <NUM> includes the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> is in communication with the transceiver <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the UE <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as a distance <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location associated with the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> is represented as an angle <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and the line segment is represented as an angle <NUM>.

In the example <NUM>, the distances <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> (either individually and/or aggregated) may be below a distance threshold, which might indicate a likelihood of interference. Further, the angles <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the aggregated angle may be above an angle threshold, which might indicate a low likelihood of interference. For the purposes of illustration, the example <NUM> may represent a topology whereby a high level of interference is associated with the connections <NUM> and/or <NUM>.

In some examples, various levels of interference can be determined for various configurations of angles and/or distances. In some examples, a database of different topologies can be determined such that when similar or same conditions are presented in an environment an indication of interference can be determined.

In some examples, topology information can be provided to computing devices to determine interference information. For example, location information for each of the devices can be received at a computing device (e.g., the computing devices <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM>) or may be inferred based on signal triangulation, beam angle (e.g., associated with the connection between the base station <NUM> and the UE <NUM>), GPS information, and the like.

<FIG> illustrates an example <NUM> of interference in a wireless network and example techniques for mitigating the interference. The example <NUM> illustrates an environment comprising the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via the connection <NUM>. In some examples, the connection <NUM> is a <NUM> connection associated with a particular channel (e.g., channel X). The environment includes transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> in communication via the connection <NUM>. As discussed in connection with <FIG>, the environment in the example <NUM> may represent a layout where interference may be present in the connections <NUM> and <NUM>.

The example also illustrates base stations <NUM> and <NUM>. In this example, the base station <NUM> is a <NUM> base station co-located with the base station <NUM>, while the base station <NUM> is a <NUM> base station located away from the base station <NUM>.

As discussed herein, the interference mitigation component <NUM> may receive information about a layout or topology of devices in an environment as well as wireless resources associated with such devices. For example, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can be informed of distances, angles, wireless resources (e.g., frequencies, channels, capabilities (e.g., whether devices are capable of <NUM> and/or <NUM> communications), locations of other devices (e.g., the base stations <NUM>, <NUM>, and the like), signal characteristics (e.g., RSRP, RSRQ, SINR, throughput, latency, QCI, QOS, bit rate, modulation scheme, duplexing scheme, beam direction, beam width, power levels, and the like).

Based at least in part on layout information, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can perform an action to mitigate interference at the base station <NUM>, the UE <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, and/or the transceiver <NUM>.

For example, mitigation actions may include, but are not limited to, a fallback to LTE action <NUM>, a switch channel(s) action <NUM> (e.g., to channel Y), a handover to another base station action <NUM>, and the like.

In some examples, the fallback to LTE action <NUM> may include changing the connection <NUM> from a <NUM> connection to a LTE connection (e.g., via an RRC reconfiguration message). An example <NUM> illustrates a result of the action <NUM> in which the base station <NUM> is communicating with the UE <NUM> via a <NUM> connection <NUM>. By falling back to LTE (with may represent a low band or mid band frequency), the connection <NUM> may not use a same or similar frequency resource as the connection <NUM>, which may reduce interference in the environment. In a case where the base station <NUM> is co-located with the base station <NUM> the distances and angles between the various components may be substantially the same as the example <NUM>.

However, where the base station <NUM> is not co-located with the base station <NUM>, a distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as a distance <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location associated with the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as an angle <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and the line segment may be represented as an angle <NUM>.

In some examples, the switch channel(s) action <NUM> may include instructing the base station <NUM>, the UE <NUM>, and/or the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> to use a different channel (e.g., channel Y) to introduce a guard band between the connections <NUM> and <NUM>. In some examples, a preference (e.g., priority) may be given to the connection <NUM> to not adjust a channel of the connection <NUM>. In some examples, a preference (e.g., a priority) may be given to the connection <NUM> to not adjust a channel of the connection <NUM>.

In some examples, the handover to another base station action <NUM> may include handing over the UE <NUM> from the base station <NUM> as a serving cell to another base station (e.g., <NUM>) as the serving cell.

An example <NUM> illustrates the environment following the action <NUM>. For example, the base station <NUM> is communicating with the UE <NUM> via a <NUM> connection <NUM>. In some examples, handing over to another base station may alter the distances and/or angles of components in the environment.

For example, a distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as a distance <NUM>. A distance between the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as a distance <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and a line segment defined by a location associated with the base station <NUM> and the transceiver <NUM> may be represented as an angle <NUM>. An angle associated with the connection <NUM> and the line segment may be represented as an angle <NUM>.

In some examples, one or more actions may be used together to further reduce interference associated with a serving base station, a UE, and a microwave backhaul transceiver.

In some examples, additional actions may include, but are not limited to, varying one or more of a power level, beam direction, beam angle, modulation scheme, bit rate, QoS, QCI, radio access technology, channel, servicing cell, standalone/non-standalone connections, and the like.

<FIG> illustrates an environment <NUM> including example techniques for detecting interference in connection with a flexible portion associated with a wireless transmission.

The environment <NUM> illustrates the base station <NUM> in communication with the UE <NUM> via a connection <NUM>. The transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> are in communication via a connection <NUM>.

In some examples, the base station <NUM> can send configuration data <NUM> to the UE <NUM>. In some examples, the configuration data <NUM> can include information regarding a slot format for the UE <NUM> and the base station <NUM> to use in the connection <NUM>. By way of example, and without limitation, example slot formats are illustrated as examples <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. In particular, the slot format in the example <NUM> includes a downlink portion <NUM> (comprising three downlink slots), a flexible portion <NUM> (comprising three flexible slots), and an uplink portion <NUM> (comprising eight uplink slots). Examples of slot configurations are given in 3GPP Technical Specification <NUM>, Table <NUM>. <NUM>-<NUM>.

In some examples, the base station <NUM> can transmit the configuration data <NUM> to the UE <NUM> such that the connection <NUM> can be configured in accordance with the configuration data <NUM>. Further, the configuration data <NUM> can be received at the computing device <NUM>, at the computing device <NUM> (as configuration data <NUM>), and/or at the computing device <NUM> (as configuration data <NUM>).

Accordingly, each computing device <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> can listen for signals in accordance with the configuration data <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> such that a signal received during the flexible portion (e.g., <NUM>) at the computing device <NUM> can be determined to be interference. In some examples, operations can further include determining a center frequency associated with any potential interference, a power level, a modulation scheme, an identifier, and the like. In the case where interference is received at the computing device <NUM> during the flexible portion <NUM>, the computing device <NUM> can determine that the transceivers <NUM> and/or <NUM> are a likely source of the interference and can mitigate the interference in accordance with the techniques discussed herein.

<FIG> illustrates an environment <NUM> including example techniques for identifying interference in a network based on an identifier included in a wireless transmission.

In some examples, the base station <NUM> can send a base station identifier (BSID) <NUM> to the UE <NUM> for the UE <NUM> to include in an uplink portion of the connection <NUM>. That is, the UE <NUM> can receive the BSID <NUM> and can transmit an identifier with data to the base station <NUM> as per the connection <NUM>. In some examples, a portion of a transmission from the UE <NUM> can be received by the transceiver <NUM> and/or the computing device <NUM> as interference <NUM>. In response, the computing device <NUM> can receive the interference <NUM>, decode the signal to determine the BSID, and can send an interference message <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>. In some examples, the interference message <NUM> can inform the computing device <NUM> that interference is being received at the transceiver <NUM>, and accordingly, the computing device <NUM> can implement interference mitigation actions as discussed herein.

In some examples, the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM> may include a transceiver identifier in a backhaul communication such that the computing device <NUM> can receive the transceiver identifier as interference and can provide an interference message to the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM>, for example.

<FIG> illustrates an example computing device <NUM> to implement the interference detection and/or mitigation techniques, as described herein. In some embodiments, the computing device <NUM> can correspond to the base station <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, the computing device <NUM>, and the like. It is to be understood in the context of this disclosure that the computing device <NUM> can be implemented as a single device, as a plurality of devices, or as a system with components and data distributed among them.

As illustrated, the computing device <NUM> comprises a memory <NUM> storing the interference detection component <NUM> and the interference mitigation component <NUM> discussed herein. Also, the computing device <NUM> includes processor(s) <NUM>, a removable storage <NUM> and non-removable storage <NUM>, input device(s) <NUM>, output device(s) <NUM>, and transceiver(s) <NUM>.

In various embodiments, the memory <NUM> is volatile (such as RAM), non-volatile (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.) or some combination of the two. The interference detection component <NUM> and the interference mitigation component <NUM> stored in the memory <NUM> can comprise methods, threads, processes, applications or any other sort of executable instructions. The interference detection component <NUM> and the interference mitigation component <NUM> can also include files and databases.

In general, and as described herein, the interference detection component <NUM> can include functionality to infer, predict, detect, or otherwise determine a presence of interference by and between component in an environment. For example, the interference detection component <NUM> can determine interference based on distance(s) and/or angle(s) between components in a network, based on a signal received during a flexible portion of a wireless transmission, and/or based on an identifier associated with a transmission. Aspects of the interference detection component <NUM> are discussed throughout this disclosure.

In general, and as described herein, the interference mitigation component <NUM> can include functionality to alter one or more wireless resources of a base station, a UE, and/or one or more microwave backhaul transceivers to reduce interference in a system. For examples, mitigation techniques may include, but are not limited to, varying one or more wireless resources of the microwave backhaul transceiver, the base station, and/or the UE, including but not limited to a wireless channel (e.g., changing channels to introduce a guard band (or to increase a size of a guard band) between transmissions), a radio access technology (e.g., handing over from a <NUM> base station at a location to a <NUM> base station at the same location), a serving cell (e.g., handing over from a first base station associated with a first location to a second base station associated with a second location), varying a power or modulation scheme, and the like. Aspects of the interference mitigation component <NUM> are discussed throughout this disclosure.

In some embodiments, the processor(s) <NUM> is a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both CPU and GPU, or other processing unit or component known in the art. In some configurations, the processing service (and/or any components discussed herein) may be provided by one or more servers of the wireless communication network. In some configurations, the processing service may be part of a network of computing resources, e.g., a "cloud" network.

The computing device <NUM> also includes additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in <FIG> by removable storage <NUM> and non-removable storage <NUM>. Tangible computer-readable media can include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The memory <NUM>, the removable storage <NUM> and the non-removable storage <NUM> are all examples of computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile discs (DVD), content-addressable memory (CAM), or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computing device <NUM>. Any such tangible computer-readable media can be part of the computing device <NUM>.

The computing device <NUM> may be configured to communicate over a telecommunications network using any common wireless and/or wired network access technology. Moreover, the computing device <NUM> may be configured to run any compatible device operating system (OS), including but not limited to, Microsoft Windows Mobile, Google Android, Apple iOS, Linux Mobile, as well as any other common device OS.

The computing device <NUM> also can include input device(s) <NUM>, such as a keypad, a cursor control, a touch-sensitive display, voice input device, etc., and output device(s) <NUM> such as a display, speakers, printers, etc. These devices are well known in the art and need not be discussed at length here.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the computing device <NUM> also includes one or more wired or wireless transceiver(s) <NUM>. For example, the transceiver(s) <NUM> can include a network interface card (NIC), a network adapter, a LAN adapter, or a physical, virtual, or logical address to connect to various networks, devices, or components illustrated in the environment <NUM>, for example. To increase throughput when exchanging wireless data, the transceiver(s) <NUM> can utilize multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) technology. The transceiver(s) <NUM> can comprise any sort of wireless transceivers capable of engaging in wireless, radio frequency (RF) communication. The transceiver(s) <NUM> can also include other wireless modems, such as a modem for engaging in Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Bluetooth, infrared communication, and the like.

<FIG> illustrate example processes in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. These processes are illustrated as logical flow graphs, each operation of which represents a sequence of operations that can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the operations represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described operations can be combined in any order and/or in parallel to implement the processes.

<FIG> illustrates an example process <NUM> for selecting a wireless resource based at least in part on a geometry of components in a wireless network, as described herein. The example process <NUM> can be performed by the interference detection component <NUM>, the interference mitigation component <NUM>, or another component, in connection with other components and/or devices discussed herein. Some or all of the process <NUM> can be performed by one or more devices or components in the environments discussed herein.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include receiving first location information associated with a first location of a backhaul transceiver. In some examples, a backhaul transceiver may correspond to the transceivers <NUM> and/or <NUM>, as discussed herein. In some examples, the operation <NUM> can include receiving a prior coordination notice (PCN) describing a location and/or wireless resources associated with the transceivers.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include receiving backhaul transmission information associated with the backhaul transceiver, the backhaul transmission information comprising a first transmission direction. In some examples, the first transmission direction may be based at least in part on a transceiver pair, such as the transceivers <NUM> and <NUM>. In some examples, transmission information may include an indication of a frequency used, a modulation or duplexing scheme used, transmission power, beam width, bit rate, bandwidth, priority, and the like.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include receiving second location information associated with a second location of a base station. In some examples, the base station may correspond to the base station <NUM>, as discussed herein. In some examples, the operation <NUM> can include receiving a prior coordination notice (PCN) describing a location and/or wireless resources associated with the base station. In some examples, the operation <NUM> may further include receiving location information associated with a UE served by the base station.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include receiving transmission information associated with the base station, the transmission information comprising a second transmission direction. In some examples, the second transmission direction may be associated with a connection between the base station and a UE. In some examples, the second transmission direction may be associated with a beam angle.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include determining a geometry of an environment based on the backhaul transmission information and the transmission information. In some examples, the operation <NUM> can include determining distance(s) and/or angle(s) between the base station(s), UE(s), transceiver(s), and the like. In some examples, the operation <NUM> can include accessing distance thresholds, angle thresholds, and/or interference models to determine expected or predicted levels of interference based on the geometry of the environment.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include selecting a wireless resource for the backhaul transceiver or the base station based at least in part on the geometry of the environment. In some examples, the operation <NUM> may include falling back to LTE, selecting another channel (for the base station and/or transceivers), handing over to another base station (e.g., with a more favorable geometry), and the like. Additional examples of mitigation actions are discussed throughout this disclosure.

<FIG> illustrates an example process for detecting interference based at least in part on a flexible portion associated with a wireless transmission, as described herein. The example process <NUM> can be performed by the interference detection component <NUM>, the interference mitigation component <NUM>, or another component, in connection with other components and/or devices discussed herein. Some or all of the process <NUM> can be performed by one or more devices or components in the environments discussed herein.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include receiving data indicative of a slot format for a wireless communication. In some examples, the data can indicate a downlink portion, a flexible portion, and/or an uplink portion. In some examples, a slot format can be in accordance with 3GPP Technical Specification <NUM>, Table <NUM>. <NUM>-<NUM>. In some examples, the slot format can be transmitted by a base station to a UE, a transceiver, and/or computing devices associated with the various components of a network.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include measuring, based at least in part on the slot format, a signal during a time period associated with a flexible portion of the wireless communication. For example, a signal received during the flexible portion of the wireless communication can be determined to be interference based on the signal not arriving during a downlink portion or uplink portion.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include determining signal characteristics (e.g., frequency, power level, etc.) associated with the signal. For example, the operation <NUM> can include determining a RSSI, SING, RSRP, RSRQ, and the like, as appropriate.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include determining that a frequency of the signal corresponds to a backhaul communication frequency. For example, for a sensor or computing device associated with a base station, a signal received during the flexible portion can be determined to be interference. The operation <NUM> can further include determining a center frequency associated with the signal to determine if the signal is associated with a channel similar to a channel used for a communication between the base station and a UE.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include determining that a power level of the signal meets or exceeds a threshold level. In some examples, the threshold level can be statically or dynamically determined based on priority, communication type (e.g., QCI, application type, etc.), environmental conditions, and the like.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include selecting a wireless resource for at least one of a base station or a backhaul transceiver based at least in part on the power level meeting or exceeding the threshold level. In some examples, the operation <NUM> may include falling back to LTE, selecting another channel (for the base station and/or transceivers), handing over to another base station (e.g., with a more favorable geometry), and the like. Additional examples of mitigation actions are discussed throughout this disclosure.

<FIG> illustrates an example process for detecting and mitigating interference in a wireless network, as described herein. The example process <NUM> can be performed by the interference detection component <NUM>, the interference mitigation component <NUM>, or another component, in connection with other components and/or devices discussed herein. Some or all of the process <NUM> can be performed by one or more devices or components in the environments discussed herein.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include determining interference associated with at least one of a base station, a user equipment, and/or a backhaul transceiver. In some examples, the operation <NUM> can be based at least in part on one or more of distance(s) and/or angle(s) associated with components and transmission directions in a network, signals associated with a flexible portion, identifiers associated with a signal received as interference, and the like.

At operation <NUM>, the process can include mitigating the interference by modifying at least one radio characteristic (e.g., a radio access technology, a wireless channel, an encoding scheme, a power level, a serving base station, etc.).

Thus, the techniques described herein may provide an improved user experience by detecting and/or mitigating interference in wireless networks. In some examples, the operation <NUM> may include falling back to LTE, selecting another channel (for the base station and/or transceivers), handing over to another base station (e.g., with a more favorable geometry), and the like. Additional examples of mitigation actions are discussed throughout this disclosure.

Claim 1:
A method performed by a computing device (<NUM>, <NUM>) associated with a microwave backhaul transceiver, the method comprising:
receiving (<NUM>) data indicative of a slot format (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for a wireless communication between a base station (<NUM>) and a user equipment (<NUM>), the slot format comprising an uplink portion (<NUM>), a flexible portion (<NUM>), and a downlink portion (<NUM>);
measuring (<NUM>) a signal during a time period associated with the flexible portion of the wireless communication;
determining (<NUM>) at least a frequency and a power level associated with the signal;
based on the at least one of the frequency and the power level associated with the signal, determining (<NUM>) that the frequency corresponds to a microwave backhaul communication frequency;
determining (<NUM>) that the power level meets or exceeds a threshold power level; and
selecting (<NUM>) a wireless resource for the microwave backhaul transceiver (<NUM>, <NUM>) based at least in part on the power level meeting or exceeding the threshold power level.