Optimisation of Radio Access Network Operation Introducing Self-x Functions: Use Cases, Algorithms, Expected Efficiency Gains

With the deployment of next generation (4G) mobile radio systems an additional radio access network is established. A variety of different Radio Access Technologies (RATs) will be operated in parallel. In this framework, the Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, specified by 3GPP, will have to co-exist with WiMAX, mobile 2G/3G networks and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). To cope with this increasing diversity and complexity mechanisms for self-optimisation, self-organisation, self-healing, self-configuration (self-x) are essential to guarantee cost efficient and high quality network operation. Within the project E³ [1] self-x functionalities for different use cases and different elements of a mobile radio access network are developed. Aim of this paper is to give and overview about the interworking of different self-x functionalities and to present three exemplary use cases.