Communication control devices, communication control methods and computer program products

Abstract

A communication control device is provided, comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots in the settings, and information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices; a setting unit for selecting a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots based on the information related to the radio wave environment, and rewriting the time slot; and a communication control unit for performing communication based on the time slot rewritten by the setting unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to communication control devices, communication control methods, and computer programs. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, development related to the Internet of Things (IoT) has been actively pursued. In IoT, wireless communication has become a crucial technological topic because various objects connect to the network to exchange information. Therefore, within the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), small-packet, low-power, or low-cost communication for IoT has been standardized, such as Machine Type Communication (MTC) and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT).

[0003] In communications used in IoT, it is desirable to ensure wide coverage with the lowest possible power consumption. However, due to the trade-off between power consumption and coverage, ensuring wide coverage inevitably increases power consumption. Therefore, as one technique for achieving both low power consumption and wide coverage, communication relay via relay nodes with entities such as base stations has been investigated.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for enabling a terminal device within a cell to relay communication between a terminal device outside the cell and a base station.

[0005] In addition, in recent years, for the purpose of integrating backhaul links and access links, a communication called Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) has been proposed, and communication relay has even been studied in IAB.

[0006] Citation List

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: JP 2016-96489A Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] When relay communication terminals, such as relay nodes, become mobile, the local environment changes more dynamically, and the wireless communication environment is expected to change dramatically due to factors such as reflections and interference. Therefore, resource allocation needs to take this change into account.

[0011] Therefore, this disclosure proposes a new and improved communication control device, communication control method and computer program that can perform effective resource allocation taking into account the mobility of the terminal performing relay communication and changes in the local environment.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] According to this disclosure, a communication control device is provided, comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring information related to a time slot setting and a rewritable time slot in the setting, and information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices; a setting unit for selecting a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots based on the information related to the radio wave environment, and rewriting the time slot; and a communication control unit for performing communication based on the time slot rewritten by the setting unit.

[0014] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a communication control method is provided, executed by a processor, the method comprising: acquiring information related to a time slot setting and a rewritable time slot in the setting, and information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices; selecting a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots based on the information related to the radio wave environment, and rewriting the time slot; and performing communication based on the rewritten time slot.

[0015] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, a computer program is provided that enables a computer to perform the following operations: acquiring information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots in those settings, as well as information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices; selecting a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots based on the information related to the radio wave environment, and rewriting the time slot; and performing communication based on the rewritten time slot. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the IAB.

[0017] Figure 2 This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an IAB use case.

[0018] Figure 3 This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the IAB architecture.

[0019] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationships between IAB nodes.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the communication control device according to this embodiment.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a terminal device according to this embodiment.

[0022] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an outline of the operation of a communication control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an outline of the operation of a communication control device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 9A This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9B This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example of an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating a first example of a schematic configuration of an eNB.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating a second example of a schematic configuration of an eNB.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration for a smartphone.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a car navigation system. Detailed Implementation

[0031] In the following description, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in this specification and the drawings, redundant descriptions of components having substantially the same functional configuration are omitted by assigning the same reference numerals.

[0032] Note that the descriptions will be given in the following order.

[0033] 1. Embodiments of this disclosure

[0034] 1.1 Background

[0035] 1.2 Configuration Example

[0036] 1.3 Operation Example

[0037] 2. Application Examples

[0038] 3. Conclusion

[0039] <1. Embodiments of this disclosure>

[0040] [1.1 Background]

[0041] Before explaining the embodiments of this disclosure in detail, the background of the embodiments of this disclosure will first be described.

[0042] In recent years, a communication technology called IAB has been proposed for the purpose of integrating backhaul links and access links. Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the IAB. Figure 1Three base stations 100a, 100b, and 100c are shown, along with terminals 200a, 200b, and 200c communicating with base stations 100a, 100b, and 100c, respectively. Base station 100a is connected to the core network via fiber optic cable and has backhaul links established with base stations 100b and 100c. Figure 1 In the example, terminal 200a has not only an access link established with base station 100a, but also an access link established with base station 100b.

[0043] Even at the IAB, communication relays must be checked. In the IAB, not only conventional Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) is used, but also Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM) and Space Division Multiplexing (SDM) are employed to ensure orthogonality between backhaul and access links. The IAB specifically assumes the use of millimeter waves for communication. Coverage becomes an issue in millimeter-wave communications. However, by using relay communication such as the IAB, coverage in millimeter-wave communications can be effectively extended. The IAB also assumes multi-hop and a grid-like arrangement.

[0044] Figure 2 This is an illustrative diagram showing examples of IAB use cases. IAB can be applied not only to network configurations using millimeter-wave communication, but also to vehicular network sharing (tethering) with IAB nodes mounted on vehicles, mobile cells with IAB nodes mounted on trams, and drone cells with IAB nodes mounted on flying objects such as drones. Furthermore, it is assumed that IAB is applied to communications for IoT. Specifically, IAB can also be applied to wearable network sharing communications connecting smartphones and wearable devices. In addition, IAB can be applied to other fields such as medicine and factory automation. Of course, Figure 2 The use cases shown are merely examples, and IAB can be applied to more than just these. Figure 2 Use cases other than those shown.

[0045] Figure 3This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an IAB architecture. The IAB host (donor) is considered a base station, such as a gNB, and connects to the core network (CN). The IAB host has central functions (centralized unit (CU)) and base station functions (distributed unit (DU)). Under the IAB host are IAB nodes (relay nodes), which are wirelessly connected, forming multiple multi-hops. Each IAB node connects to a user terminal (UE) via an access link. IAB nodes can connect to multiple IAB nodes to improve backhaul link redundancy. IAB nodes include user terminal functions (mobile terminal (MT)) and base station functions (distributed unit (DU)). That is, in the backhaul link, the IAB node operates as an MT for downlink reception and uplink transmission, and as a DU for downlink transmission and uplink reception. From the user terminal's perspective, since the IAB node looks like a regular base station, even traditional terminals can connect to the IAB network. Note that IAB nodes are not limited to cases including both MT and DU. An IAB node can include both MT receiving downlink from upper-layer IAB nodes and MT transmitting on the transmission side.

[0046] An IAB node can have both DU and MT capabilities. In that case, since the IAB node's uplink transmission operation is MT, the uplink resources to be used are allocated by the parent IAB node. On the other hand, since the IAB node's downlink transmission operation is DU, the downlink resources to be used are allocated by the local IAB node. Figure 4 This is an illustrative diagram showing the relationships between IAB nodes. IAB nodes typically have links between parent IABs (as parent IABs) and child IABs (as child IABs). IAB nodes also have links to typical user terminals. Links between IABs are backhaul links, while links to user terminals are access links.

[0047] When allocating resources, the first step is to define the resource manager. The IAB framework mentions a centralized approach where the IAB host allocates all resources, a distributed approach where IAB nodes manage their own resources, and a hierarchical approach where parent IAB nodes manage the resources of their child IAB nodes. Centralized, distributed, and hierarchical approaches can be used in combination. For example, the IAB host can determine the uplink and downlink frame format configuration to some extent, leaving configurable areas in each IAB node, allowing each IAB node to decide how to rewrite the frame format.

[0048] In the IAB, it is conceivable that IAB nodes will be mobile in the future. In this case, due to the more dynamic changes in the local environment, the wireless communication environment is also expected to be greatly altered by factors such as radio wave reflection and interference. On the other hand, in IAB resource allocation, it is expected that the IAB host will, to some extent, set the time slot format and determine the uplink and downlink configurations.

[0049] IAB nodes use time slot format settings specified by the IAB host to perform communication. In this case, assuming a relatively large IAB network, the IAB host may not be able to correctly identify the local wireless communication environment of the IAB nodes. In other words, the local area requires more flexible resource allocation changes. On the other hand, if resource allocation is performed in a distributed manner, adjustments between adjacent IAB nodes may be unsuccessful and interference may occur. Therefore, a mechanism is needed that can dynamically change the allocation based to some extent on the time slot format set by the IAB host and according to the local surrounding environment.

[0050] Therefore, as described below, this disclosure presents a technique that can dynamically change the allocation based to a certain extent on the time slot format set by the IAB host and according to the local surrounding environment.

[0051] [1.2 Configuration Example]

[0052] (1.2.1, Example of Communication Control Device Configuration)

[0053] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the communication control device 100 according to this embodiment. The communication control device 100 is an example of an IAB host or an IAB node. (Refer to...) Figure 5 The communication control device 100 includes an antenna unit 110, a wireless communication unit 120, a network communication unit 130, a storage unit 140, and a control unit 150.

[0054] (1) Antenna element 110

[0055] Antenna unit 110 radiates the signal output by wireless communication unit 120 into space as radio waves. In addition, antenna unit 110 converts the radio waves in space into signals and outputs the signals to wireless communication unit 120.

[0056] In particular, in this embodiment, the antenna unit 110 has multiple antenna elements and can form a beam.

[0057] (2) Wireless communication unit 120

[0058] The wireless communication unit 120 transmits and receives signals. For example, the wireless communication unit 120 transmits downlink signals to the terminal device and receives uplink signals from the terminal device.

[0059] In particular, in this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 120 can form multiple beams through the antenna unit 110 and communicate with the terminal device.

[0060] Here, in this embodiment, the antenna unit 110 and the wireless communication unit 120 are configured to include the above-mentioned references. Figure 6 The described analog-digital hybrid antenna architecture includes multiple antenna panels 70. For example, antenna element 110 corresponds to antenna 72. Furthermore, for example, wireless communication unit 120 corresponds to digital circuitry 50, analog circuitry 60, and phase shifter 71.

[0061] (3) Network communication unit 130

[0062] Network communication unit 130 sends and receives information. For example, network communication unit 130 sends information to other nodes and receives information from other nodes. Other nodes include other base stations and core network nodes.

[0063] (4) Storage unit 140

[0064] Storage unit 140 temporarily or permanently stores programs and various data used for the operation of communication control device 100.

[0065] (5) Control Unit 150

[0066] The control unit 150 controls the operation of the entire communication control device 100 and provides various functions of the communication control device 100. In this embodiment, the control unit 150 is configured to include a setting unit 151 and a communication control unit 153.

[0067] The setting unit 151 performs various settings related to wireless communication between the communication control device 100 and other communication control devices 100 or between the communication control device 100 and the terminal device 200. Based on the settings of the setting unit 151, the communication control unit 153 performs communication control processing for transmitting signals from the wireless communication unit 120.

[0068] For example, the wireless communication unit 120 acquires information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots in those settings, as well as information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices 100 (IAB nodes). Therefore, the wireless communication unit 120 can be used as an example of the acquisition unit of this disclosure. The setting unit 151 selects a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots based on the radio wave environment information acquired by the wireless communication unit 120, and rewrites that time slot. Then, the communication control unit 153 performs wireless communication based on the time slot rewritten by the setting unit 151.

[0069] The control unit 150 may further include other components besides these components. That is, the control unit 150 can perform operations other than those of these components.

[0070] <1.2.2, Configuration Example of Terminal Device>

[0071] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the terminal device 200 according to this embodiment. (Refer to...) Figure 6 The terminal device 200 includes an antenna unit 210, a wireless communication unit 220, a storage unit 230, and a control unit 240.

[0072] (1) Antenna element 210

[0073] Antenna unit 210 radiates the signal output by wireless communication unit 220 into space as radio waves. In addition, antenna unit 210 converts the radio waves in space into signals and outputs the signals to wireless communication unit 220.

[0074] In particular, in this embodiment, the antenna unit 210 has multiple antenna elements and can form a beam.

[0075] (2) Wireless communication unit 220

[0076] The wireless communication unit 220 transmits and receives signals. For example, the wireless communication unit 220 receives downlink signals from the base station and transmits uplink signals to the base station.

[0077] In particular, in this embodiment, the wireless communication unit 220 can form multiple beams through the antenna unit 210 and communicate with the base station.

[0078] Here, in this embodiment, the antenna unit 210 and the wireless communication unit 220 are configured to include the above-mentioned references. Figure 6 The described analog-digital hybrid antenna architecture includes multiple antenna panels 70. For example, antenna element 210 corresponds to antenna 72. Furthermore, for example, wireless communication unit 220 corresponds to digital circuitry 50, analog circuitry 60, and phase shifter 71.

[0079] (3) Storage unit 230

[0080] Storage unit 230 temporarily or permanently stores programs and various data used for the operation of terminal device 200.

[0081] (4) Control Unit 240

[0082] The control unit 240 controls the operation of the entire terminal device 200 and provides various functions of the terminal device 200. In this embodiment, the control unit 240 is configured to include an acquisition unit 241 and a communication control unit 243.

[0083] The acquisition unit 241 acquires information sent from the communication control device 100 via wireless communication between the communication control device 100 and the terminal device 200. The communication control unit 243 performs communication control processing for transmitting signals from the wireless communication unit 220 based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit 241.

[0084] The control unit 240 may further include other components besides these components. That is, the control unit 240 can perform operations other than those of these components.

[0085] [1.3 Operation Example]

[0086] Subsequently, operational examples of the communication control device 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. In the communication control device 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the time slot format settings set in the IAB node are rewritten by using ambient environment recognition.

[0087] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a summary of the operation of a communication control device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication control device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure performs the following three operations: (1) timeslot format setting, (2) ambient environment identification, and (3) timeslot rewriting. The operation of the communication control device 100 will be described sequentially below.

[0088] (1) Time slot format settings

[0089] For IAB nodes, the slot format configuration is first set by the IAB host. At this time, the IAB host semi-statically sets the UL / DL / F configuration. In addition to the IAB host, the configuration can also be performed by the representative node in the IAB node or the IAB parent.

[0090] The diagram illustrates the definition of time resources. In the case of a link used for the MT viewpoint (i.e., the IAB parent), these include downlink (DL) resources (D), uplink (UL) resources (U), sidelink (SL) resources (S), and flexible resources (F). Sidelink resources are resources used to link IAB nodes that become MTs. Flexible resources can include any of the downlink, uplink, and sidelink resources.

[0091] On the other hand, in the case of the DU viewpoint (i.e., links used for IAB sub-levels), resources include downlink (DL) resources, uplink (UL) resources, sidelink (SL) resources, and flexible resources. Sidelink resources are resources used to link IAB nodes that become MTs. Flexible resources can include any of the following: downlink resources, uplink resources, sidelink resources, and unavailable resources (resources not used for links in NA and IAB sub-levels).

[0092] While time slot formats can be fixedly allocated on the IAB host side, a mechanism is needed that allows IAB nodes some freedom to rewrite time slot configurations. Therefore, in this embodiment, a new Hard / Soft concept is introduced when allocating time slot formats. Hard refers to resources that are always available in the DU of an IAB child. Soft, on the other hand, is a resource whose availability is explicitly and / or implicitly controlled by the IAB parent in the DU of the IAB child. Furthermore, "Hard" can be a resource that cannot be rewritten by the IAB node, while "Soft" can be a resource that can be rewritten by the IAB node.

[0093] (2) Surrounding environment recognition

[0094] In this embodiment, the IAB node dynamically rewrites the time slot format by recognizing the surrounding environment. Specifically, in this embodiment, the IAB node can rewrite the time slot format for time slots allocated as "Soft" (rewriteable time slots). Measurements used for environment recognition can be configured to be performed from the IAB host to the IAB node, or can be pre-configured for the IAB node. For example, RRC signaling can be used to set the configuration from the IAB host. The IAB node sets the measurement interval, measurement width, measurement target (measurement target frequency band, measurement target IAB node, etc.) as the measurement window.

[0095] The transmission cycle for signaling used for ambient environment identification and triggering can be set by the IAB host and communicated to the IAB nodes. RRC signaling is used to configure settings from the IAB host. For example, the IAB host can configure signaling settings for other IAB nodes for use by other IAB nodes.

[0096] Even when rewriting is not possible due to Hard allocation, the IAB node can handle it by sending a reset request to the IAB host side.

[0097] As information acquisition links for identifying the surrounding environment, IAB nodes can obtain information from their IAB parent (IAB nodes connected via uplink), IAB child (IAB nodes connected via downlink), neighboring IABs (IAB nodes connected via sidelink or IAB nodes not connected to the local station), and the surrounding wireless environment. From these links, IAB nodes can obtain allocated time slot format information, currently used time slot format information, and future time slot format information (including rewrite plan information).

[0098] Furthermore, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can acquire IAB node location information, received power level, reference signal received power (RSRP), received signal strength indication (RSSI), and reference signal received quality (RSRQ). Additionally, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can acquire radio wave interference levels and radio frequency utilization (how much of the allocated frequency resources are used).

[0099] Furthermore, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can determine whether a location is a frequency-used location (i.e., the location of frequency resources) in order to consider in-band transmission. Additionally, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can obtain the link hop count (the number of hops for that node calculated from the IAB host).

[0100] Furthermore, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can acquire beamforming-related information. This beamforming-related information may include beamforming direction, precoding used, rank indicator information, MIMO mode, number of antennas, etc. IAB nodes use beamforming-related information to obtain, in particular, space-related information used in that beam.

[0101] Furthermore, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can acquire information related to the occurrence of interference in other communication control devices, such as ACK / NACK related information. This ACK / NACK related information is used by IAB nodes to identify the extent of interference based on the ACK / NACK ratio.

[0102] In addition, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can obtain IAB node capability information (IAB capability information). IAB capability information may include, for example, whether it has the capability to perform spatial division multiplexing (SDM), whether it has the capability to perform frequency division multiplexing (FDM), the number of MIMO streams used, the number of remaining MIMO streams, backhaul link thickness information (bandwidth, capacity, redundancy, communication speed, etc.), access link thickness information (bandwidth, redundancy, capacity, communication speed, etc.), etc.

[0103] Furthermore, as information obtained from these links, IAB nodes can acquire communication service information and packet information. This service information and packet information may include, for example, priority information and traffic volume.

[0104] (3) Time slot rewriting

[0105] The IAB node recognizes its surroundings and performs time slot rewriting when the configured time slot format needs to be rewritten. That is, the IAB node can rewrite time slots allocated as Soft to any of D / U / S / F / NA as needed.

[0106] When an IAB node rewrites a time slot, it can notify the IAB host or other IAB nodes of the rewrite result. An IAB node can rewrite a time slot as semi-persistent. In other words, an IAB node can set an available time period and notify the IAB host or other IAB nodes of this available time period.

[0107] When rewriting time slots, IAB nodes can select the time slots to be rewritten based on the ratio of D time slots to U time slots. For example, if the number of D time slots is large, the IAB node can rewrite the rewriteable D time slots as U time slots. IAB nodes can also change the frequency resources used when rewriting time slots. Furthermore, IAB nodes can also change beamforming settings when rewriting time slots.

[0108] When writing time slots, IAB nodes can take link priorities into account when performing rewriting. For example, an IAB node can determine priorities using information that should be sent with high priority, and rewrite time slots according to the determined priorities. Furthermore, for example, an IAB node can determine which takes precedence over other IAB nodes and rewrite time slots based on priority. Additionally, for example, when a handover or specific procedure needs to be performed, an IAB node can rewrite time slots based on the process to be performed.

[0109] During time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can rewrite services through QoS. Furthermore, during time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can perform rewriting to reduce packet error rates. Additionally, during time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can rewrite time slots to minimize their own interference and perform mode rewriting. Furthermore, during time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can perform rewriting to minimize interference to communication partner terminal devices or other IAB nodes. Finally, during time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can perform rewriting to maximize network capacity.

[0110] Furthermore, during time slot rewriting, IAB nodes can perform rewriting for backhaul link switching purposes. That is, when multiple IAB nodes and backhaul links are connected, IAB nodes can adjust the time slots between links and perform rewriting to prioritize the use of one of the backhaul links.

[0111] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing an outline of the operation of a communication control device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 This illustrates a scenario where an IAB node sends a slot format reconfiguration request to the IAB host.

[0112] The IAB node first performs environment identification and determines whether the timeslot format needs to be rewritten. As a result of the environment identification, if rewriting is required and processing can be enabled by rewriting the timeslot format, the IAB node will rewrite the timeslot format.

[0113] On the other hand, when it is determined that simply rewriting the timeslot format would be insufficient, the IAB node sends a timeslot format reconfiguration request to the IAB host (which can be a representative or parent of multiple parents). Subsequently, the timeslot format is updated by the IAB host and reassigned to the IAB node.

[0114] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. First, the node acting as the IAB host determines the timeslot format (step S101) and notifies the determined timeslot format to the IAB parent, IAB nodes, IAB children, and neighboring IAB nodes (steps S102, S103, S104, and S105).

[0115] The IAB host notifies the IAB parent, IAB node, and IAB child of the time slot format to set the time slot format according to the notification (steps S106, S107, and S108).

[0116] Subsequently, the IAB node measures the surrounding wireless environment (step S109). Furthermore, the IAB node receives notifications regarding the usage of the time slot format from its IAB parent, IAB children, and neighboring IAB nodes (steps S110, S111, and S112). Then, the IAB node performs a time slot format rewrite determination based on the measurement results of the surrounding wireless environment or the notifications regarding the usage of the time slot format (step S113).

[0117] Then, when it is determined that simply rewriting the slot format would be insufficient, the IAB node sends a slot format reconfiguration request to the IAB host (step S114).

[0118] The IAB host reconfigures the time slot format based on the time slot format reconfiguration request from the IAB node (step S115), and notifies the IAB parent, IAB node, IAB child and neighboring IAB node of the reconfigured time slot format (steps S116, S117, S118 and S119).

[0119] The IAB host notifies the IAB parent, IAB node, and IAB child of the time slot format to set the time slot format according to the notification (steps S120, S121, and S122).

[0120] Subsequently, the IAB node measures the surrounding wireless environment (step S123). Furthermore, the IAB node receives notifications regarding the usage of the time slot format from its IAB parent, IAB children, and neighboring IAB nodes (steps S124, S125, and S126). Then, the IAB node performs a time slot format rewriting determination based on the measurement results of the surrounding wireless environment or the notifications regarding the usage of the time slot format (step S127).

[0121] Then, when it is determined that rewriting the time slot format alone is sufficient for processing, the IAB node rewrites the allocated time slot format (step S128). At this time, the IAB node rewrites the time slot format of the time slots allocated as Soft (rewriteable time slots).

[0122] exist Figure 9A and Figure 9B In the example shown, measurements of the wireless environment around the IAB node, as well as the usage of time slot formats for the parent IAB node, child IAB node, and peripheral IAB nodes, are obtained as part of the environment identification. However, this is only an example, and the IAB node can obtain other information as described above.

[0123] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an operational example of the communication control device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, an operational example is shown when the communication control device 100 operates as an IAB node.

[0124] The IAB node first performs environment identification (step S131) ​​and determines whether processing is possible by rewriting the timeslot format (step S132). As a result of the determination in step S132, if processing can be performed by rewriting the timeslot format (step S132, Yes), the IAB node rewrites the timeslot format (step S133).

[0125] On the other hand, when it is determined that simply rewriting the timeslot format cannot be processed (step S132, No), the IAB node sends a timeslot format reconfiguration request to the IAB host (which can be a representative or parent of multiple parents) (step S134). Afterwards, the timeslot format is updated through the IAB host, and the timeslot format is reassigned to the IAB node (step S135).

[0126] <2. Application Examples>

[0127] The technology disclosed herein can be applied to a variety of products.

[0128] For example, the communication control device 100 can be implemented as any type of evolved Node B (eNB), such as a macro eNB or a small eNB. A small eNB can be an eNB covering a cell smaller than a macro cell, such as a pico eNB, micro eNB, or femtocell eNB. Alternatively, the communication control device 100 can be implemented as other types of base stations, such as a NodeB or a base transceiver station (BTS). The communication control device 100 may include a subject (also called a base station device) that controls wireless communication, and one or more remote radio heads (RRHs) located at a different location from the subject. Furthermore, various types of terminals, described later, can operate as the communication control device 100 by temporarily or semi-permanently performing base station functions.

[0129] Furthermore, terminal device 200 can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, a tablet PC, a laptop PC, a portable gaming terminal, a mobile terminal such as a portable / dongle-type mobile router or a digital camera, or an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation device. Additionally, terminal device 200 can be implemented as a terminal performing machine-to-machine (M2M) communication (also known as a machine-type communication (MTC) terminal). Furthermore, terminal device 200 can be a wireless communication module (e.g., an integrated circuit module consisting of a single chip) installed on the terminal.

[0130] [2.1 Application Examples Related to Base Stations]

[0131] (First application example)

[0132] Figure 11This is a block diagram illustrating a first example of a schematic configuration of an eNB to which the technology according to this disclosure can be applied. The eNB 800 has one or more antennas 810 and a base station device 820. Each antenna 810 and base station device 820 can be connected to each other via an RF cable.

[0133] Each antenna 810 has one or more antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements forming a MIMO antenna) and is used by the base station device 820 for transmitting and receiving radio signals. Figure 11 As shown, the eNB 800 has multiple antennas 810. Figure 11 In this context, multiple antennas 810 may correspond, for example, to multiple frequency bands used by the eNB 800. Although Figure 11 An example is shown in which the eNB 800 has multiple antennas 810, but the eNB 800 may have a single antenna 810.

[0134] The base station device 820 includes a controller 821, a memory 822, a network interface 823, and a wireless communication interface 825.

[0135] The controller 821 may be, for example, a CPU or a DSP, and operates various functions of the upper layer of the base station device 820. For example, the controller 821 generates data packets based on data in signals processed by the wireless communication interface 825, and transmits the generated packets via the network interface 823. The controller 821 can generate bundled packets by bundling data from multiple baseband processors, and transmit the generated bundled packets. Furthermore, the controller 821 may have logical functions for performing control such as radio resource control, radio bearer control, mobility management, admission control, or scheduling. Additionally, it can cooperate with peripheral eNBs or core network nodes to perform control. The memory 822 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs executed by the controller 821 and various control data (e.g., terminal lists, transmitted power data, scheduling data, etc.).

[0136] Network interface 823 is a communication interface for connecting base station device 820 to core network 824. Controller 821 can communicate with core network nodes or other eNBs via network interface 823. In that case, eNB 800 and core network nodes or other eNBs can be connected to each other via logical interfaces (e.g., S1 or X2 interfaces). Network interface 823 can be a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface for wireless backhaul. When network interface 823 is a wireless communication interface, it can use a higher frequency band than the wireless communication interface 825.

[0137] The wireless communication interface 825 supports cellular communication systems such as LTE or LTE-Advanced and provides wireless connectivity to terminals located in the cell of eNB 800 via antenna 810. The wireless communication interface 825 typically includes a baseband (BB) processor 826 and RF circuitry 827. The BB processor 826 can perform, for example, encoding / decoding, modulation / demodulation, and multiplexing / demultiplexing, and performs various signal processing operations at each layer (e.g., L1, Media Access Control (MAC), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)). The BB processor 826 can replace the controller 821 and have some or all of the aforementioned logical functions. The BB processor 826 may include a memory for storing communication control programs and a processor for executing those programs, along with associated circuitry, and the functionality of the BB processor 826 can be changed by updating the aforementioned programs. Furthermore, the module can be a card or board inserted into a slot in the base station device 820, or it can be a chip mounted on the card or board. On the other hand, the RF circuit 827 may include a mixer, a filter, and an amplifier, and transmit and receive radio signals via the antenna 810.

[0138] The wireless communication interface 825 includes, for example: Figure 11 The multiple BB processors 826 shown can correspond to multiple frequency bands, for example, used by the eNB 800. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 As shown, the wireless communication interface 825 includes multiple RF circuits 827, and the multiple RF circuits 827 may correspond to, for example, multiple antenna elements. Although Figure 11 An example of a wireless communication interface 825 including multiple BB processors 826 and multiple RF circuits 827 is shown, but the wireless communication interface 825 may also include a single BB processor 826 or a single RF circuit 827.

[0139] exist Figure 11 The eNB 800 shown includes references Figure 5One or more components of the described control unit 150 (setting unit 151 and / or communication control unit 153) may be installed in the wireless communication interface 825. Alternatively, at least some of these components may be installed in the controller 821. As an example, the eNB 800 may be equipped with a module that includes part (e.g., BB processor 826) of the wireless communication interface 825 and / or the controller 821, and one or more of the above components may be installed in the module. In this case, the module may store a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components (in other words, a program for causing the processor to perform the operations of one or more of the above components), and may execute the program. As another example, a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components may be installed in the eNB 800, and the wireless communication interface 825 (e.g., BB processor 826) and / or the controller 821 may execute the program. As described above, the eNB 800, the base station device 820, or the module may be provided as a device including one or more of the above components, and a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components may be provided. In addition, a readable recording medium on which the above-mentioned procedures are already recorded can be provided.

[0140] In addition, Figure 11 In the eNB 800 shown, refer to Figure 5 The described wireless communication unit 120 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 825 (e.g., RF circuit 827). Furthermore, the antenna unit 110 can be installed in the antenna 810. Additionally, the network communication unit 130 can be installed in the controller 821 and / or the network interface 823. Furthermore, the storage unit 140 can be installed in the memory 822.

[0141] (Second application example)

[0142] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating a second example of a schematic configuration of an eNB to which the technology according to this disclosure can be applied. The eNB 830 has one or more antennas 840, a base station device 850, and an RRH 860. Each antenna 840 and RRH 860 can be connected to each other via an RF cable. Furthermore, the base station device 850 and RRH 860 can be connected to each other via a high-speed line such as an optical fiber.

[0143] Each of the antennas 840 has one or more antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements forming a MIMO antenna) and is used by the RRH 860 for transmitting and receiving radio signals. Figure 12 As shown, the eNB 830 has multiple antennas 840, which may correspond to, for example, multiple frequency bands used by the eNB 830. Although Figure 12An example of an eNB 830 with multiple antennas 840 is shown, but an eNB 830 can also have a single antenna 840.

[0144] The base station device 850 includes a controller 851, a memory 852, a network interface 853, a wireless communication interface 855, and a connection interface 857. The controller 851, memory 852, and network interface 853 are connected to a reference... Figure 11 The controller 821, memory 822, and network interface 823 described are the same.

[0145] The wireless communication interface 855 supports cellular communication systems such as LTE or LTE-Advanced, and provides wireless connectivity to terminals located in the sector corresponding to the RRH 860 via the RRH 860 and antenna 840. The wireless communication interface 855 may typically include a BB processor 856, etc. In addition to the RF circuitry 864 connected to the RRH 860 via the connection interface 857, the BB processor 856 is connected to the reference... Figure 11 The described BB processor 826 is the same. Figure 12 As shown, the wireless communication interface 855 includes multiple BB processors 856, and these multiple BB processors 856 can correspond to multiple frequency bands used, for example, by the eNB 830. Although Figure 12 An example of a wireless communication interface 855 including multiple BB processors 856 is shown, but the wireless communication interface 855 may also include a single BB processor 856.

[0146] Connection interface 857 is an interface for connecting base station device 850 (wireless communication interface 855) to RRH 860. Connection interface 857 can be a communication module for communication on a high-speed line connecting base station device 850 (wireless communication interface 855) and RRH 860.

[0147] The RRH 860 also includes a connectivity interface 861 and a wireless communication interface 863.

[0148] Connection interface 861 is an interface for connecting RRH 860 (wireless communication interface 863) to base station device 850. Connection interface 861 can be a communication module for communication over high-speed lines.

[0149] The wireless communication interface 863 transmits and receives radio signals via antenna 840. The wireless communication interface 863 typically includes RF circuitry 864, etc. RF circuitry 864 may include a mixer, filter, and amplifier, and transmits and receives radio signals via antenna 840. Figure 12 As shown, the wireless communication interface 863 includes a plurality of RF circuits 864, and the plurality of RF circuits 864 may correspond to, for example, a plurality of antenna elements. Although Figure 12An example of a wireless communication interface 863 including multiple RF circuits 864 is shown, but the wireless communication interface 863 may also include a single RF circuit 864.

[0150] exist Figure 12 In the eNB 830 shown, refer to Figure 5 One or more components (setting unit 151 and / or communication control unit 153) included in the described control unit 150 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 855 and / or wireless communication interface 863. Alternatively, at least some of these components can be installed in the controller 851. As an example, the eNB 830 can be equipped with a module that includes part (e.g., BB processor 856) of the wireless communication interface 855 and / or the controller 851, and one or more of the above components can be installed in the module. In this case, the module can store a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components (in other words, a program for causing the processor to perform the operations of one or more of the above components), and can execute the program. As another example, a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components can be installed in the eNB 830, and the wireless communication interface 855 (e.g., BB processor 856) and / or the controller 851 can execute the program. As described above, the eNB 830, the base station device 850, or the module can be provided as a device including one or more of the above components, and a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components can be provided. In addition, a readable recording medium on which the above-mentioned procedures are already recorded can be provided.

[0151] Furthermore, in Figure 12 In the eNB 830 shown, for example, refer to Figure 5 The described wireless communication unit 120 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 863 (e.g., RF circuit 864). Furthermore, the antenna unit 110 can be installed in the antenna 840. Additionally, the network communication unit 130 can be installed in the controller 851 and / or the network interface 853. Furthermore, the storage unit 140 can be installed in the memory 852.

[0152] [2.2 Application Examples Related to Terminal Devices]

[0153] (First application example)

[0154] Figure 13This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a smartphone 900 to which the technology according to this disclosure can be applied. The smartphone 900 includes a processor 901, a memory 902, a storage device 903, an external connection interface 904, a camera 906, a sensor 907, a microphone 908, an input device 909, a display device 910, a speaker 911, a wireless communication interface 912, one or more antenna switches 915, one or more antennas 916, a bus 917, a battery 918, and an auxiliary controller 919.

[0155] Processor 901 may be, for example, a CPU or a system-on-a-chip (SoC), and controls the functions of the application layer and other layers of smartphone 900. Memory 902 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs and data executed by processor 901. Storage device 903 may include storage media such as semiconductor memory or hard disk. External connection interface 904 is an interface for connecting external devices such as memory cards or Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices to smartphone 900.

[0156] Camera 906 has an imaging element such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) and generates an image. Sensor 907 may include, for example, a set of sensors such as a positioning sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and an accelerometer. Microphone 908 converts voice input to smartphone 900 into a speech signal. Input device 909 includes, for example, a touch sensor, an auxiliary keypad, a keyboard, buttons, or switches, which detects touches on the screen of display device 910 and receives operations or information input from the user. Display device 910 has a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display and displays the output image of smartphone 900. Speaker 911 converts the voice signal output from smartphone 900 into speech.

[0157] The wireless communication interface 912 supports cellular communication systems such as LTE or LTE-Advanced and performs wireless communication. The wireless communication interface 912 typically includes a BB processor 913 and RF circuitry 914. The BB processor 913 can perform operations such as encoding / decoding, modulation / demodulation, and multiplexing / demultiplexing, and performs various signal processing tasks for wireless communication. On the other hand, the RF circuitry 914 may include a mixer, filters, and amplifiers, and transmits and receives radio signals via an antenna 916. The wireless communication interface 912 can be a single-chip module in which the BB processor 913 and RF circuitry 914 are integrated. Figure 13 As shown, the wireless communication interface 912 may include multiple BB processors 913 and multiple RF circuits 914. Although Figure 13An example of a wireless communication interface 912 including multiple BB processors 913 and multiple RF circuits 914 is shown, but the wireless communication interface 912 may also include a single BB processor 913 or a single RF circuit 914.

[0158] In addition to supporting cellular communication systems, the wireless communication interface 912 can also support other types of wireless communication systems, such as short-range wireless communication systems, near-field wireless communication systems, or wireless local area network (LAN) systems. In that case, a BB processor 913 and RF circuitry 914 may be included for each wireless communication system.

[0159] Each antenna switch 915 switches the connection destination of antenna 916 among multiple circuits (e.g., circuits for different wireless communication systems) included in the wireless communication interface 912.

[0160] Each antenna 916 has one or more antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements forming a MIMO antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving radio signals via the wireless communication interface 912. Figure 13 As shown, the smartphone 900 can have multiple antennas 916. Although Figure 13 An example of a smartphone 900 with multiple antennas 916 is shown, but a smartphone 900 may also have a single antenna 916.

[0161] Furthermore, the smartphone 900 may include an antenna 916 for each wireless communication system. In that case, the antenna switch 915 can be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone 900.

[0162] Bus 917 connects processor 901, memory 902, storage device 903, external connection interface 904, camera 906, sensor 907, microphone 908, input device 909, display device 910, speaker 911, wireless communication interface 912, and auxiliary controller 919 to each other. Battery 918 feeds to the battery via the feed line shown in the figure (partially indicated by dashed lines). Figure 13 Each frame of the smartphone 900 shown is powered. The auxiliary controller 919 provides, for example, the minimum necessary functions for operating the smartphone 900 in sleep mode.

[0163] exist Figure 13 The smartphone 900 shown includes references Figure 6One or more components of the described control unit 240 (acquisition unit 241 and / or communication control unit 243) may be installed in the wireless communication interface 912. Alternatively, at least some of these components may be installed in the processor 901 or the auxiliary controller 919. As an example, the smartphone 900 may be equipped with a module that includes part (e.g., BB processor 913) of the wireless communication interface 912, the processor 901, and / or the auxiliary controller 919, and one or more of the above components may be installed in the module. In this case, the module may store a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components (in other words, a program for causing the processor to perform the operations of one or more of the above components), and may execute the program. As another example, a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components may be installed in the smartphone 900, and the wireless communication interface 912 (e.g., BB processor 913), the processor 901, and / or the auxiliary controller 919 may execute the program. As described above, the smartphone 900 or the module may be provided as a device including one or more of the above components, and may be provided with a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components. In addition, a readable recording medium on which the above-mentioned procedures are already recorded can be provided.

[0164] In addition, Figure 13 In the smartphone 900 shown, refer to Figure 6 The described wireless communication unit 220 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 912 (e.g., RF circuit 914). Furthermore, the antenna unit 210 can be installed in the antenna 916. Additionally, the storage unit 230 can be installed in the memory 902.

[0165] (Second application example)

[0166] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a car navigation device 920 to which the technology according to this disclosure can be applied. The car navigation device 920 includes a processor 921, a memory 922, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module 924, a sensor 925, a data interface 926, a content player 927, a storage medium interface 928, an input device 929, a display device 930, a speaker 931, a wireless communication interface 933, one or more antenna switches 936, one or more antennas 937, and a battery 938.

[0167] The processor 921 may be, for example, a CPU or a SoC, and controls the navigation functions and other functions of the car navigation device 920. The memory 922 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs and data executed by the processor 921.

[0168] GPS module 924 uses GPS signals received from GPS satellites to measure the position (e.g., latitude, longitude, and altitude) of the vehicle navigation device 920. Sensor 925 may include, for example, a set of sensors such as a gyroscope sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and an atmospheric pressure sensor. Data interface 926 is connected to the vehicle network 941 via a terminal (not shown) and acquires data generated on the vehicle side, such as vehicle speed data.

[0169] Content player 927 plays content stored on a storage medium (e.g., CD or DVD) inserted into storage medium interface 928. Input device 929 includes, for example, a touch sensor, button, or switch, which detects touch on the screen of display device 930 and receives operations or information input from the user. Display device 930 has a screen such as an LCD or OLED display and displays images for navigation functions or content to be played. Speaker 931 outputs voice for navigation functions or content to be played.

[0170] The wireless communication interface 933 supports cellular communication systems such as LTE or LTE-Advanced and performs wireless communication. The wireless communication interface 933 typically includes a BB processor 934 and RF circuitry 935. The BB processor 934 can perform operations such as encoding / decoding, modulation / demodulation, and multiplexing / demultiplexing, and performs various signal processing tasks for wireless communication. On the other hand, the RF circuitry 935 may include a mixer, filter, and amplifier, and transmits and receives radio signals via an antenna 937. The wireless communication interface 933 can be a single-chip module in which the BB processor 934 and RF circuitry 935 are integrated. Figure 14 As shown, the wireless communication interface 933 may include multiple BB processors 934 and multiple RF circuits 935. Although Figure 14 An example of a wireless communication interface 933 including multiple BB processors 934 and multiple RF circuits 935 is shown, but the wireless communication interface 933 may include a single BB processor 934 or a single RF circuit 935.

[0171] In addition to supporting cellular communication systems, the wireless communication interface 933 can also support other types of wireless communication systems, such as short-range wireless communication systems, near-field wireless communication systems, or wireless LAN systems. In that case, a BB processor 934 and RF circuitry 935 may be included for each wireless communication system.

[0172] Each antenna switch 936 switches the connection destination of antenna 937 among multiple circuits (e.g., circuits for different wireless communication systems) included in the wireless communication interface 933.

[0173] Each antenna 937 has one or more antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements forming a MIMO antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving radio signals via the wireless communication interface 933. Figure 14 As shown, the car navigation device 920 can have multiple antennas 937. Although Figure 14 An example is shown in which the car navigation device 920 has multiple antennas 937, but the car navigation device 920 may also have a single antenna 937.

[0174] Furthermore, the car navigation device 920 may include an antenna 937 for each wireless communication system. In that case, the antenna switch 936 can be omitted from the configuration of the car navigation device 920.

[0175] Battery 938 feeds to the feed line shown by the dashed line in the figure. Figure 14 Each frame of the car navigation device 920 shown is powered. Additionally, the battery 938 stores power supplied from the vehicle side.

[0176] exist Figure 14 In the car navigation device 920 shown, refer to Figure 6 One or more components (acquisition unit 241 and / or communication control unit 243) included in the described control unit 240 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 933. Alternatively, at least some of these components can be installed in the processor 921. As an example, the car navigation device 920 may be equipped with a module that includes part (e.g., BB processor 934) of the wireless communication interface 933 and / or the processor 921, and one or more of the above components can be installed in the module. In this case, the module may store a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components (in other words, a program for causing the processor to perform the operations of one or more of the above components), and can execute the program. As another example, a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components may be installed in the car navigation device 920, and the wireless communication interface 933 (e.g., BB processor 934) and / or the processor 921 may execute the program. As described above, the car navigation device 920 or the module may be provided as a device including one or more of the above components, and a program for causing the processor to function as one or more of the above components may be provided. Furthermore, a readable recording medium on which the above program is already recorded may be provided.

[0177] In addition, Figure 14 In the car navigation device 920 shown, refer to Figure 6The described wireless communication unit 220 can be installed in the wireless communication interface 933 (e.g., RF circuit 935). Furthermore, the antenna unit 210 can be installed in the antenna 937. Additionally, the storage unit 230 can be installed in the memory 922.

[0178] Furthermore, the technology according to this disclosure can be implemented as an in-vehicle system (or vehicle) 940, an in-vehicle network 941, and a vehicle-side module 942, comprising one or more frames of the aforementioned car navigation device 920. The vehicle-side module 942 generates vehicle-side data such as vehicle speed, engine speed, or fault information, and outputs the generated data to the in-vehicle network 941.

[0179] <<3. Conclusion>>

[0180] As described above, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication control device 100 is provided that can effectively allocate resources taking into account changes in the local environment when terminal relay communication is mobile. Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication control device 100 is provided that can rewrite the time slot format taking into account changes in the local environment when terminal relay communication is mobile.

[0181] Each step in a process performed by each device in this specification does not necessarily have to be processed in chronological order as described in a sequence diagram or flowchart. For example, each step in a process performed by each device may be processed in a different order than that described in the flowchart, or may be processed in parallel.

[0182] Furthermore, computer programs can be created to enable hardware such as the CPU, ROM, and RAM integrated in each device to perform the same functions as the configuration of each of the aforementioned devices. Additionally, storage media in which the computer program is stored can be provided. Furthermore, by utilizing hardware to configure each functional block shown in the functional block diagram, a series of processes can be implemented via hardware.

[0183] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations within the scope of the technical concept described in the appended claims will occur to them, and it should be understood that such modifications or alterations will naturally fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0184] Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are illustrative or exemplary only, and not restrictive. That is, in addition to or in lieu of the effects described in this specification, the technology disclosed herein may exhibit other effects that are obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0185] Note that the following configurations also fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0186] (1) A communication control device, comprising:

[0187] The acquisition unit acquires information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots in those settings, as well as information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station, from other communication control devices.

[0188] The setting unit, based on information related to the radio wave environment, selects a time slot to be rewritten from the rewritable time slots and rewrites that time slot; and

[0189] The communication control unit performs communication based on the time slots rewritten by the setting unit.

[0190] (2) The communication control device according to (1), wherein the acquisition unit acquires the time slot settings allocated to other communication control devices communicating with the station via the uplink as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0191] (3) The communication control device according to (1), wherein the acquisition unit acquires the time slot settings allocated to other communication control devices communicating with the station via the downlink as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0192] (4) The communication control device according to (1), wherein the acquisition unit acquires the time slot settings allocated to other communication control devices communicating with the station via a side link as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0193] (5) The communication control device according to (1), wherein the acquisition unit acquires the settings of time slots allocated to other nearby communication control devices that are not linked to this station, as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0194] (6) According to any one of (1) to (5) of the communication control device, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the location information of other communication control devices as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0195] (7) According to any one of (1) to (5) of the communication control device, wherein the acquisition unit acquires information related to the utilization rate of communication resources of other communication control devices as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0196] (8) According to any one of (1) to (5) of the communication control device, wherein the acquisition unit acquires beamforming information related to other communication control devices as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0197] (9) According to any one of (1) to (5) of the communication control device, wherein the acquisition unit acquires information related to the occurrence of interference in other communication control devices as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0198] (10) The communication control device according to (9), wherein the information related to the occurrence of the interference is information related to the occurrence rate of ACK and NACK.

[0199] (11) According to any of (1) to (10) a communication control device, wherein the acquisition unit acquires information related to the capabilities of other communication control devices as information related to the radio wave environment.

[0200] (12) According to any of (1) to (11) communication control devices, wherein the setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten by considering the priority of links with other devices.

[0201] (13) According to any of (1) to (11) communication control devices, wherein the setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten based on service quality.

[0202] (14) According to any of (1) to (11) communication control devices, wherein the setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to reduce the error rate of the packets.

[0203] (15) According to any of (1) to (11) communication control devices, wherein the setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to minimize interference to the local station.

[0204] (16) According to any of (1) to (11) communication control devices, wherein the setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to minimize interference to the communication partner.

[0205] (17) According to any of (1) to (16) a communication control device, wherein the communication control unit performs control to notify other devices of information related to the rewritten time slot.

[0206] (18) A communication control method, executed by a processor, the method comprising:

[0207] Obtain information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots within those settings from other communication control devices, as well as information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station;

[0208] Based on information related to the radio wave environment, a time slot to be rewritten is selected from the rewriteable time slots, and that time slot is rewritten; and

[0209] Communication is performed based on rewritten time slots.

[0210] (19) A computer program for causing a computer to perform the following operations:

[0211] Obtain information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots within those settings from other communication control devices, as well as information related to the radio wave environment surrounding the station;

[0212] Based on information related to the radio wave environment, a time slot to be rewritten is selected from the rewriteable time slots, and that time slot is rewritten; and

[0213] Communication is performed based on rewritten time slots.

[0214] List of reference numerals

[0215] 100 Communication control device

[0216] 200 terminal devices

Claims

1. A communication control apparatus comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires, from other communication control apparatuses, information related to a time slot setting and a rewritable time slot in the setting; a setting unit that selects a time slot to be rewritten from among the rewritable time slots and rewrites a time slot format; and a communication control unit that performs communication based on the time slot format rewritten by the setting unit, wherein the communication control apparatus is configured to measure a surrounding radio wave environment, wherein the information related to the surrounding radio wave environment includes at least one of a received power level, a reference signal received power (RSRP), a received signal strength indication (RSSI), and a reference signal received quality (RSRQ); and the setting unit is configured to select the time slot to be rewritten from among the rewritable time slots based on the measured radio wave environment. The communication control apparatus also receives a notification of a use situation of the time slot format from a parent, a child, and / or a neighboring apparatus, and performs a rewriting determination of the time slot format based on the measurement of the surrounding radio wave environment and the notification of the use situation.

2. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The communication control apparatus also sets a measurement interval, a measurement width, and / or a measurement target as a measurement window.

3. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The measurement of the communication control apparatus is configured from a host apparatus or is pre-configured.

4. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The acquisition unit acquires a setting of a time slot assigned to another communication control apparatus in the vicinity to which the own station has no link, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

5. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The acquisition unit acquires position information of the other communication control apparatuses, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

6. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The acquisition unit acquires information related to a usage rate of a communication resource of the other communication control apparatuses, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

7. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The acquisition unit acquires information related to beamforming of the other communication control apparatuses, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

8. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The acquisition unit acquires information related to an occurrence of interference in the other communication control apparatuses, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

9. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The information related to the occurrence of interference is information related to an occurrence rate of ACK and NACK.

10. The communication control device according to claim 9, wherein The acquisition unit acquires information related to a capability of the other communication control apparatuses, as the information related to the radio wave environment.

11. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten in consideration of a priority of a link with the other apparatus.

12. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten in consideration of a quality of service.

13. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to reduce an error rate of a packet.

14. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to minimize interference of the own station.

15. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The setting unit selects the time slot to be rewritten to minimize interference to a communication partner.

16. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein The communication control unit controls to notify other apparatuses of information related to the rewritten time slot.

17. The communication control device according to claim 1, wherein 18.A communication control method for a communication control apparatus, the method comprising: acquiring, from other communication control apparatuses, information related to a time slot setting and a rewritable time slot in the setting; selecting a time slot to be rewritten from among the rewritable time slots and rewriting a time slot format; and performing communication based on the rewritten time slot format, wherein ​ measuring a surrounding radio wave environment, wherein information related to the surrounding radio wave environment includes at least one of a received power level, a reference signal received power RSRP, a received signal strength indication RSSI, and a reference signal received quality RSRQ; and selecting a time slot to be overwritten from the rewritable time slots based on the measured radio wave environment.

19. A computer program product having stored thereon a computer program, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform: acquiring information related to time slot settings and rewritable time slots in the settings from other communication control apparatuses; selecting a time slot to be overwritten from the rewritable time slots and overwriting a time slot format; and performing communication based on the overwritten time slot format, wherein measuring a surrounding radio wave environment, wherein information related to the surrounding radio wave environment includes at least one of a received power level, a reference signal received power RSRP, a received signal strength indication RSSI, and a reference signal received quality RSRQ; and selecting a time slot to be overwritten from the rewritable time slots based on the measured radio wave environment.

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