Communication using channel selection based dynamic spectrum access

Abstract

The disclosures described herein configure a client device for communication using dynamic spectrum access within a spectrum, such as television white space (TVWS), using a determined location of the client device based on location information, such as from a global positioning system. A dynamic spectrum access database accesses channels based on the location information. Available channels are determined for the client device from the channels based on the location information. A list of available channels for use by the client device is sent to the client device, allowing narrowband communication over the channels.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Television (TV) blank (TVWS) is the unused or inactive portion of the television spectrum. TVWS covers a wide spectrum of frequencies in both the ultra-high frequency (UHF) and very high frequency (VHF) bands. Specifically, TVWS corresponds to unused television channels between active channels in the UHF and VHF spectra.

[0002] The availability of television channels can vary spatially and temporally. Therefore, transceivers using the TVWS spectrum for communication may need to hop frequencies between different frequencies. Furthermore, the TVWS spectrum is not continuous, and the single-channel capacity of TVWS may be insufficient for satisfactory communication between certain types of devices, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Additionally, TVWS is sensitive to interference at low signal strength, which is why it is currently primarily used for broadband communication. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This summary presents some concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] Computerized methods for communication using dynamic spectrum access include determining the location of a client device using Global Positioning System (GPS) location information and accessing a dynamic spectrum access database of dynamic spectrum access channels based on the GPS location information. The computerized method also includes determining available channels for the client device from TVWS channels based on the GPS location information and sending a list of available channels used by the client device to the client device.

[0005] Many of the accompanying features can be better understood by referring to the following detailed description related to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0006] This description can be better understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which...

[0007] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the communication between the base station and the client, based on the example illustration. Figure 2 It is based on the block diagram of the example base station; Figure 3 It is a block diagram of the deployment area based on the example; Figure 4 It is based on the timing diagram in the example; Figure 5 It is based on the timing diagram of another example; Figure 6 It is based on the timing diagram of another example; Figure 7 It is based on the timing diagram of another example; Figure 8 It is based on the timing diagram of another example; Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a computing device to configure communication between devices via a TVWS network, based on an example diagram. Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a computing device to schedule communication of devices via a TVWS network, based on an example diagram; and Figure 11 The diagram illustrates a computing device as an example of a functional block diagram.

[0008] The corresponding reference characters represent the relevant parts within the entire drawing. The system illustrates the figures schematically. Attached figures may not be drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0009] The computing devices and methods described herein are configured to communicate using dynamic spectrum access, which in various examples includes the use of television (TV) blank (TVWS) spectrum. According to this disclosure, communication between an endpoint device (e.g., a client) and a corresponding base station for an edge IoT (IoT) environment uses dynamic spectrum, such as TVWS spectrum, which in various examples does not have the limitations typically introduced when using TVWS communication. However, this disclosure is not limited to the use of TVWS and can be implemented in other dynamic spectrum access environments, such as Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS), etc. Furthermore, the techniques described in this disclosure can also be used with other spectrum and different types of networks, such as “mesh” networks (e.g., networks that can self-form and self-heal, with nodes directly connected to other nodes).

[0010] The various technologies used on IoT devices are designed to utilize the TVWS spectrum for computational activities and to handle spatial and temporal variations. For example, the TVWS spectrum can exhibit spatial variations because a channel available at one node may be occupied by a primary user at another node (e.g., a television, wireless microphone, etc.). The TVWS spectrum is also discontinuous. Some channels may be occupied by primary users, resulting in spectrum fragmentation. Furthermore, temporal variations are possible, as available spectrum may be occupied by primary users later, and vice versa. On the other hand, the number of available channels in the TVWS spectrum is significantly higher than in the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) bands. Therefore, the TVWS spectrum allows for relatively high bandwidth for data transmission.

[0011] In some examples, to enable IoT networks on TVWS and taking into account spatial variations, this disclosure uses the known location of each client device (e.g., each client IoT device includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) module or processor and sends geolocation information to the gateway) and accesses a TVWS database (available to the gateway) to query available channels based on location. In another example, the base station divides the entire communication area into a grid, and the base station includes the available channels in each grid in the beacon signal. Therefore, the client knows its grid and selects the appropriate operating channel. Moreover, intelligent frequency hopping is used on available channels in terms of time variations. For example, the base station hops frequencies across available channels, and if a client device loses connection, it will attempt to transmit on the next channel. Therefore, devices that are unsatisfactory for such environments (e.g., IoT devices) are configured to use the TVWS spectrum for longer-range, higher-capacity, lower-power communication (e.g., communication at remote locations). For example, in this disclosure, remote communication of an IoT network is implemented.

[0012] For example, in this disclosure, IoT devices are capable of operating at low frequencies (UHF and VHF bands) and over longer distances (e.g., tens of miles) in TVWS, while providing substantial bandwidth, with bandwidth reaching up to 6 MHz per TV channel in some configurations. Therefore, when configured according to this disclosure, a single TVWS base station can support large-scale, remote IoT.

[0013] Figure 1 A system 100 according to an example is illustrated. System 100 allows multiple client devices 102 (such as, for example, IoT devices) to communicate with a cloud-based device 104 via a gateway 106. For example, client devices 102 may be co-located (at least partly at times) and configured to communicate locally on one or more local networks using TVWS, and ultimately communicate with external devices (such as cloud-based device 104) via one or more external networks through gateway 106. In the illustrated example, system 100 is configured as a TVWS network, which allows communication, for example, between IoT devices.

[0014] In the illustrated example, gateway 106 includes base station 108 and edge device 110. In some examples, client device 102 and base station 108 are configured to have one or more multi-narrowband transceivers. It should be understood that client device 102 and base station 108 may be configured differently to operate according to the communication technologies described herein.

[0015] In one example, base station 108 is configured to operate at frequencies from 150 MHz to 960 MHz, covering most VHF and UHF TV channels, the 433 MHz, 800 / 900 MHz ISM band, and / or other licensed bands. It should be noted that in this disclosure, base station 108 and client device 102 are configured for TVWS network communication with spatiotemporal variations. In one example, communication and control ports are provided and include one or more of the following ports: Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART), Universal Synchronous / Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (USART), Universal Serial Bus (USB), Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), and / or multiple General Purpose Input / Output (GPIO).

[0016] In an IoT environment, edge device 110 performs processing at the “edge” of the network (e.g., within gateway 106). Therefore, in one example, processing for performing transmissions is done by gateway 106, such as accessing a dynamic spectrum access database, which in the illustrated example is TVWS database 112, as described in more detail herein. However, in some examples, the edge device 110, as described herein, or the computation for performing TVWS communication, is performed (or partially performed) at any location near gateway 106, not necessarily within gateway 106 (e.g., a local computing device connected to gateway 106). Therefore, in these examples, processing or partial processing that allows TVWS transmissions is performed outside of gateway 106. Furthermore, it should be noted that the dynamic spectrum access database can be any type of database with channel availability information for dynamic spectrum frequency ranges.

[0017] In one example, each client device 102 (and base station 108) includes a GPS device that provides location information, such as geographic location information. Location information is used when configuring communication between the various devices, as described in more detail herein. Base station 108 is powered by one or more power supplies, such as active Ethernet (PoE) power in some examples or other suitable power supplies.

[0018] In some examples, client device 102 also includes an interface expansion board and connects to different sensors (e.g., IoT-type sensors). It should be noted that each client device in client device 102 can be powered using a solar panel, battery (e.g., DC), or alternating current (AC). In some examples, the power source is selected based on the application or environment in which client device 102 operates.

[0019] Therefore, in some examples, the devices in system 100 are configured to form a TVWS IoT network. For example, a "pre-call check" configuration allows IoT protocols for TVWS to be used. In one configuration, the TVWS deployed in the IoT network includes scheduling algorithms, base station design, grid-based positioning technology, and GPS-based time synchronization technology. The scheduling algorithm supports dynamic channels in terms of spatiotemporal variations, using different channels for uplink and downlink transmissions, taking into account location-based channel availability in the TVWS spectrum. Scheduling also includes techniques such as using alternative active channels, frequency hopping, and buffer slot reservations to adapt to changes in channel quality and availability over time.

[0020] In other examples, the devices in the system are configured in a “mesh” network. A mesh network is a type of self-organizing network (infrastructure networks are another type of network). In a mesh network, nodes receive and forward messages, allowing messages to be passed between nodes. Therefore, mesh networks can be established over relatively wide areas, which can be achieved using the TVWS spectrum disclosed herein. Furthermore, because the connections between nodes can be defined or adaptive, communication on a mesh network can continue even if a communication failure occurs between one or more nodes.

[0021] Base station design facilitates channel allocation for endpoint devices. For example, different channels can be assigned to different client devices 102 based on their location. Furthermore, in some examples, multiple channels are available for data transmission (i.e., more bandwidth). To take advantage of these features, multiple radio base stations 108 are used in various examples, where all radios are synchronized with each other. In operation, the radios synchronously hop frequencies across the channels assigned to the client devices 102. It should be noted that in some examples, the number of radios is based on the size of the deployment, where more radios achieve higher bandwidth utilization. Channel selection and allocation, as well as channel hopping and scheduling, are performed in various examples. In one example, using system 100, the number of messages communicating round-trip between device 102 and base station 108 is reduced.

[0022] Grid-based positioning technology and GPS-based time synchronization technology register a new endpoint device in the network to meet FCC (Federal Communications Commission) requirements. For example, according to FCC regulations, TVWS radio cannot begin transmission through arbitrary television channels. That is, certain television channels are permitted in a given area, and there are regulations on transmission power. In one example, gateway 106 queries the TVWS database 112 for a list of permitted television channels. Therefore, the TVWS radio (client device 102 and base station 108) is controlled to transmit only through the list of permitted channels. It should be noted that gateway 106 updates the list of permitted television channels periodically.

[0023] In a specific example, for system 100, each client device 102 (defining a client node) has a GPS module. Before sending data, each client device 102 shares its geographic location with gateway 106. Gateway 106 then uses the client device 102's GPS location to query TVWS database 112 and receives a list of available channels based on the client device 102's geographic location. Gateway 106 updates client device 102 with the list of available channels from the client device 102's geographic location. In some examples, the channel list used for client device 102 is a sublist of the total available channels. For example, a maximum channel list might be sent to client device 102, which in one configuration is three channels. However, more or fewer channels can be provided, such as based on the density of devices in an area, geographic location, etc. Furthermore, in some examples, the entire channel list is sent to client device 102.

[0024] In some examples, the transmission of the list of available channels is performed without a connection to or access to the Internet. That is, the list of available channels is received directly from gateway 106 based on a query of TVWS database 112. In some examples, only channel data is transmitted from gateway 106 to client device 102. That is, no communication profile or device profile information is sent from gateway 106 to client device 102. Instead, only channel data identifying available channels is transmitted.

[0025] In some applications, the deployment of system 100 includes mobile client device 102 (mobile client node), such as a node on a tractor in a farm. In this example, as the tractor's location changes over time, the channel availability of mobile client device 102 also changes. In this type of deployment, predictive location determination and a list of available channels are determined. For example, mobile client device 102 caches a list of channels for possible future locations. Based on the current and previous GPS locations of client device 102, possible future locations are estimated, for example, using machine learning. For example, a machine learning model used in machine learning techniques generates a prediction of the future location of mobile client device 102. In some examples, real-time predictions are generated. It should be understood that different prediction techniques and methods can be used, such as any algorithm or process that allows for the prediction or approximation of future location information.

[0026] In some examples, the GPS position is updated at defined distance intervals, determined based on location requirements. In one example, the GPS position is updated every 50 meters (m) of distance change. However, other distances are also considered. The GPS update interval defines the level of accuracy of the location prediction or estimation (e.g., the higher the update frequency, the more accurate the location prediction or estimation). From rapid location changes, gateway 106 also obtains information about mobile client device 102. It should be noted that in one example, to facilitate communication with mobile client device 101 (the mobile node), gateway 106 assigns more frequent frequency hopping across available channels to mobile client device 102.

[0027] Channel hopping Regarding channel frequency hopping, the quality of the TVWS channel may vary over time. Therefore, the TVWS channel used for communication between gateway 106 and client device 102 may be affected or blocked. This disclosure uses channel frequency hopping to reduce or avoid the possibility of communication loss due to affected or blocked channel quality. For example, each time client device 102 initiates communication by sending an uplink message to base station 108, client device 102 expects to receive a downlink response from base station 108. If client device 102 does not receive a downlink response (e.g., receives downlink packets), client device 102 will retry after a specific time period, which may be random or defined. If client device 102 misses a certain number of downlink packets, client device 102 marks the current channel as noisy.

[0028] Using information about the channels, such as based on the uplink / downlink procedures described above, the radio of base station 108 is configured to hop frequencies across all available channels (for all client devices 102), for example, sequentially or in a defined pattern. In one example, the base station dwell time on each channel is equal and fixed. However, variable dwell times can be used, for example, based on channel strength, etc.

[0029] If client device 102 identifies a channel as noisy and / or congested, client device 102 begins frequency hopping across channels shared by base station 108 and client device 102 (e.g., a list of channels sent from base station 108 to client device 102). On each channel, client device 102 attempts to transmit data to base station 108. In some examples, client device 102 performs carrier access detection (CAD) before transmitting data. CAD uses carrier sensing to delay or modify transmission. This can be used in conjunction with collision detection, in which a transmitting device (transmitting client device 102) detects collisions by sensing transmissions from other transmitting devices (client device 102) while client device 102 is transmitting frames. Based on the CAD results, client device 102 transmits data, delays data transmission, or does not transmit data. It should be noted that once client device 102 is connected to base station 108, client device 102 begins communicating with base station 108 through the selected channel.

[0030] It should be recognized that different configuration settings are defined in different examples. In one example, the dwell time on the channel for client device 102 is twice that of base station 108. However, other relative values ​​can also be considered.

[0031] Channel sensing Regarding base station 108, Figure 2 The diagram illustrates one configuration. Base station 108 includes multiple transceivers 200 (two shown), which are interconnected, and each transceiver is connected to antenna 202 via coupler 204. In one configuration, one input / output (I / O) of each transceiver 200 is connected together using a general purpose input / output (GPIO) pin of each transceiver 200 to allow communication between them. The interconnection of the transceivers 200 is configured to allow synchronization of the operation of the transceivers 200. In one example, the interconnected GPIO pins of the transceivers 200 are assigned for synchronization operation.

[0032] Channel sensing processor 206 is connected to antenna 202 via attenuator 208. Channel sensing processor 206 is a processor programmed with program code or other computer-executable instructions to perform operations. For example, channel sensing processor 206 is configured to estimate channel quality, such as determining that the channel is free of interference, has low interference, is not currently in use, etc. Based on the estimated quality, the channel is added to a list of available channels, such as a channel whitelist. That is, channels with interference levels or other characteristics below a defined threshold (e.g., a threshold that allows satisfactory communication on a TVWS channel without interfering with television users) are added to the list of available channels provided to client equipment 102, as described herein. It should be understood that the sensing performed by channel sensing processor 206 can use any sensing technique in channel quality determination techniques. Therefore, in various instances, this disclosure allows inference of the channel to be used, including determination of channel quality when performing channel selection and assignment.

[0033] In operation, multiple transceivers 200 can communicate simultaneously across multiple channels. That is, by using more than one transceiver 200, communication can be performed on different frequencies or frequency ranges in the TVWS spectrum.

[0034] Therefore, base station 108 allows communication via the TVWS spectrum and has GPS functionality and spectrum / interference sensing capabilities, which helps identify available TVWS channels. In other words, using one or more of the technologies described herein, TVWS networks (such as IoT devices) can be implemented without interfering with existing TVWS usage.

[0035] In one example, the scheduling mechanism allows for the formation of a TVWS network for client device 102. The scheduling mechanism in a configuration includes at least one of channel selection and allocation, and channel frequency hopping and scheduling. An example of a channel selection and allocation configuration is described below.

[0036] Channel selection and distribution According to FCC regulations, each TVWS radio transmits via a channel available at the location of the TVWS radio, such as within client device 102. It should be recognized that a channel may be available in an area, not just at a single point. Therefore, in an example configuration, the entire deployment area is defined as follows: Figure 3The area 300 shown is an example of a rectangular area. This defines a gridded channel availability, where a different set of channels is available for uplink transmissions by the terminal device (i.e., client device 102) within each area 302 (illustrated as a smaller rectangular area). Area 300 can be a large area (e.g., 20 kilometers by 20 km), where client device 102 may not have the same channel availability. As described herein, dynamic scheduling is also performed in some examples.

[0037] It should be recognized that the size and shape of region 300 can be rectangular, elliptical, circular, or any other size or shape that can be subdivided into smaller regions. Furthermore, it should be recognized that the number, size, and shape of regions 302 can vary. For example, while the size and shape of regions 302 and the number of regions 302 (seven in the example shown) are shown as having a specific configuration, this configuration is for illustrative purposes only. The size, shape, and / or number of regions 302 can be selected based on different criteria or factors, such as the number of client devices 102 in the geographic location, the distance from base station 108, the quality of TVWS in the geographic location (e.g., mountains or hills obstructing transmission, available TVWS channels), etc.

[0038] In the example shown, region 300 is divided into smaller rectangular grids defining region 302; these regions are also referred to as cell grids. In one example, region 302 is determined and defined by channel availability, i.e., region 302 is defined such that at least one channel is available in each region 302, or that a maximum number of channels are available in each or some regions 302, etc. It should be recognized that, in defining region 302, in some examples, the identifier of a group or cluster of client devices 102 within a geographic region is used. For example, determining the average number of client devices 102 within a geographic region is used to define the size of region 302 in some configurations. In some examples, region 302 is defined by a geocoding system or other means.

[0039] Subsequently, available channels in each region, including one or more cell grids, are identified, for example, based on the list of available channels described herein. That is, base station 108 can access TVWS database 112 (in... Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). Therefore, the TVWS database 112 is used to identify the available channels for the deployment area, which in this example is area 300. In one example, channel selection is performed to maximize bandwidth utilization (e.g., using more available channels). It should be understood that the number of base station radios (or base stations 108) in area 300 is used as a constraint. Although only one base station 108 is shown, multiple base stations 108 may be included in a deployment area.

[0040] Base station 108 scans any number of available channels C to evaluate quality, and in one example, adds channels to a whitelist based on predefined quality metrics (RSSI, SNR) thresholds, as shown below: Total number of whitelisted channels (Wc): Equation 1 if W c If one channel is available, then The primary channel is used as the system's active channel, while the remaining channels are reserved as backup channels. These backup channels define fallback channels or bandwidths that can be used when the active primary channel is blocked or noisy.

[0041] It should be noted that the active channel list includes uplink (client equipment 102 - base station 108) channels and downlink (base station 108 - client equipment 102) channels. Uplink channels must be available for transmission at the location of client equipment 102. However, downlink channels may or may not be available for transmission at the location of client equipment 102. However, downlink channels must be available for transmission at the location of base station 108.

[0042] After that, W c Channel assignment includes allocating channels among the radios of base station 108 if base station 108 has multiple radios. In one example, channels are allocated among the radios such that the dwell times of any two channels of the radios of base station 108 do not overlap. In one example, each radio of base station 108 is assigned one or more active channels and a spare channel.

[0043] Regarding channel selection and allocation, in one example, each client device 102 may be served by one or more base station radios. However, in this example, for uplink transmission, each client device 102 is assigned at least one active channel and at most two active channels. Similarly, for downlink reception, each client device 102 is assigned at least one channel and at most two active channels. If multiple active channels are assigned to a client device 102, the client device 102 sequentially hops across these channels while transmitting data in the assigned time slots. Other numbers of active channels may be assigned, such as no more than three.

[0044] Each client device 102 is also assigned one or more priority backup channels. For example, a backup channel can be used when the assigned channel (active primary channel) becomes noisy or cannot provide acceptable transmission (e.g., excessive transmission loss). It should be noted that in some examples, the backup channels are stored in the memory of the client device 102. In various examples, the list of active channels and backup channels can be changed "on the fly" based on communication with base station 108 (e.g., the quality of communication with base station 108).

[0045] Channel frequency hopping and scheduling Regarding channel frequency hopping, in one example, the time slot structure is defined as allocating call time among all client devices 102 (e.g., all client devices 102 in area 302). In one example, the discrete time quantity is defined as... t q (Quantum), each time slot is a multiple of that discrete time quantity. The client device 102, which defines the client node, can only operate in the time slot assigned to the client device 102 ( During this period, transmissions are made on one or more assigned channels. In one example, the time slot length assigned to client device 102 depends on the throughput requirements of client device 102 and the radio configuration.

[0046] In some examples, the duration of a time slot is 2T, where T is the worst-case time required for one uplink and one downlink transmission. Within this time slot, uplink and downlink transmissions are performed on their respective channels, or two different channels if available. It should be noted that if multiple uplink and downlink channels are available, the channels are coupled together.

[0047] For each client device 102, a period is defined ( This is the time interval between two consecutive time slots assigned to the client device. This time interval will not be changed without notifying the client device 102.

[0048] Each client device has a start time. (Unix timestamp) This represents the timeslot when client device 102 makes its first data transmission attempt. If client device 102 is assigned multiple active channels, it sequentially changes the transmit / receive channel in each consecutively assigned timeslot (e.g., cyclic configuration). For example, if client device 102 is assigned two active channels—C1 and C2—in the first assigned transmit timeslot, it transmits via C1 in the next timeslot, while transmitting via C2; in the next timeslot, it again transmits via C1. It should be noted that in various examples, two consecutive data transmission attempts are made on different active channels.

[0049] Regarding base station 108 and channel frequency hopping, a single base station radio can use... Figure 4 The channel frequency hopping scheduling shown in timing diagram 400 serves multiple channels (uplink and downlink), where U(D)ch = Uplink (downlink) channel, N = client node, T s =Initial start, t d =Duration of stay, t p =Period. In this example, each client device 102 is assigned a base station 108 and an active uplink channel and downlink channel. However, both radios serve the same channel. Each uplink channel is coupled to only one downlink channel, and each downlink channel can only be served by one base station radio (e.g., Figure 2 The transceiver 200 shown in the figure provides services.

[0050] The dwell time of the base station radio on the uplink channel ( This defines the time a radio stays on an uplink channel to serve a group of client devices 102. For each corresponding uplink channel, the base station radio dwell time includes a buffer slot 402 to accommodate new clients arriving "in real time." For example, when a new client device 102 enters area 302, buffer slot 402 allows communication within area 302 without reconfiguring frequency hopping scheduling. It should be noted that, in one example, the number of overlaps in dwell time between channels does not exceed the number of available base station radios.

[0051] In one example, during operation, multiple clients can share two common active channels because the active channel is assigned based on the location of client device 102. In this case, the client nodes of these client devices 102 are based on the same... t pGrouping is performed. Multiple client devices 102 can also share a common active channel. In this case, different methods can be used depending on the number of available base station radios and bandwidth requirements. For example, all client devices 102 can be grouped based on the shared channel, and time slot assignments and corresponding... t p This method improves reliability but reduces bandwidth utilization. In another method, if multiple base station radios are available, client devices 102 with two shared channels are grouped together, while other client devices 102 are assigned only one active channel. This increases bandwidth utilization, however, reduces reliability.

[0052] For example, Figures 5-8 Different examples of channel frequency hopping and scheduling are shown when one or more client devices 102 share a channel. Figure 5 Timing diagram 500 illustrates channel frequency hopping and scheduling, where: #radio = 1, #channel = 3, Ch / C = 2. That is, one client device (N5) and four other client devices share a common channel ( Ch i+1 In the example shown, N5 is assigned only one active channel.

[0053] In another example, such as Figure 6 The timing diagram 600 is shown, where: #radio=1, #channel=3, Ch / C=2, N 5 was assigned two active channels. Ch i+1 and Ch i+2 The length of stay is equal to Ch i It should be noted that when there is only one base station radio service, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The methods shown are not significantly different.

[0054] In another example, such as Figure 7 The timing diagram 700 is shown, where: #radio=2, #channel=3, Ch / C=2, there are two base station radios, using the same method - assigning two active channels to N5, and making Ch i+1 and Ch i+2 The length of stay is equal to Ch i .

[0055] In another example, such as Figure 8The timing diagram 800 is shown, where: #radio=2, #channel=3, Ch / C=2, and there are two base station radios. In this example, one active channel is assigned to N5 to improve bandwidth utilization across all nodes. This illustrates the trade-off between higher bandwidth and reliability.

[0056] In one example, channel hopping can be performed by either client device 102 or base station 108, such as switching channels when a channel becomes unavailable or noisy, including determining when to switch channels and allowing client device 102 and base station 108 to resume transmission on the new channel.

[0057] Channel handover can be determined using counters. For example, this process involves a base station 108 and a client device 102 maintaining two counters (an incrementing counter and a decrementing counter) in their local memory for uplink and downlink packets. These counters are also shared between the base station 108 and the corresponding client device 102 as part of the uplink / downlink packet data. A mismatch between the shared counter and the local counter reflects the number of lost packets.

[0058] In one example, to determine whether to switch channels, base station 108 queries TVWS database 112 for available channels. Additionally, base station 108 continues to scan existing channels (as described herein) to keep channel quality status updated. Base station 108 also tracks lost downlink (plus downlink) packets based on incrementing and decrementing counters. If client device 102 transmits alternately on two channels, base station 108 is able to determine whether a lost packet was on a particular channel. Base station 108 also monitors the status of other client devices 102 on the same channel to determine channel quality. For each client device 102, base station 108 tracks the previous history of packet switching frequencies to calculate its intervals.

[0059] In one example, regarding determining whether to switch channels, client device 102 tracks lost downlink packets to estimate the channel state. If client device 102 is assigned two active channels and does not receive a response from base station 108 on a particular channel, client device 102 will retry transmission in the next time slot on the next available active channel. This failure response will be reflected in a local increment / decrement counter. Therefore, both base station 108 and client device 102 can assess the channel quality.

[0060] In one example, client device 102 decides to switch channels based on the number of lost downlink packets and a mismatch in local and shared packet counters, as described below. If client device 102 has two channels and determines that one of them is noisy, the channel switching (noisy to blank) is seamless because base station 108 and client device 102 make the decision about the noisy channel on the blank channel. If client device 102 has one active channel with noise or both active channels with noise, client device 102 makes the decision after a certain number of packet losses.

[0061] In one example, when switching channels, base station 108 uses Media Access Control (MAC) commands to keep client device 102 updated on the list of available channels and their quality. When base station 108 decides to switch channels based on the decision criteria described herein, the base station radio moves to an alternative channel in the same time slot of one or more client devices 102. The base station radio maintains a backup channel on a given backup channel for at least twice the transmission interval of client device 102. If base station 108 receives a response from client device(s) 102 or a switch to the next backup channel, base station 108 stops frequency hopping.

[0062] In one example, after deciding to switch channels, client device 102 continues to hop between the backup channel and the active channel in a given time slot. If client device 102 does not receive a response from base station 108 within a defined period, client device 102 enters an "aggressive" mode, and its behavior is similar to that of a new client device 102.

[0063] In some examples, additionally or alternatively, uplink channel capacity is increased in addition to downlink channel capacity. For example, if client device 102 includes narrowband and broadband devices, capacity planning is performed for each device to ensure good uplink capacity or to increase uplink capability, such as by using aggregation acknowledgments as described herein. That is, in some examples, more bandwidth is allocated to the uplink side than to the downlink side.

[0064] Acknowledgment (ACK) signal In some examples, bandwidth utilization efficiency is improved by grouping the ACK signals of client device 102 on the same channel. For example, at the end of buffer slot 402 (such as... Figure 4 As shown), packetized ACK time slots are assigned. All client devices 102 follow the same modulation configuration to receive ACK signals, and the packetized ACK signals follow a block-based packet structure to organize the information of each client device 102.

[0065] Regarding communication within system 100, control messages such as MAC commands are used. MAC commands are control messages related to the MAC layer (channel change, time slot change, etc.). Each uplink message is followed by a downlink ACK. The ACK contains a MAC command specific to client device 102. If the ACK is insufficient to convey the MAC command, the bits in the MAC command instruct the client to send a false uplink message in the next assigned time slot. A downlink beacon time slot is also provided in buffer time slot 402, where multicast MAC commands can be conveyed. However, it should be noted that if client device 102 has already received an ACK in the corresponding transmission time slot, client device 102 can skip the beacon time slot.

[0066] Bootstrapping In some examples, regarding the addition of a new client device 102, a client boot process is performed. After a warm boot, the new client device 102 is unaware of channel availability and scheduling. Without knowing the available channels at the location of the new client device 102, it cannot make any transmission attempts. GPS time is used to synchronize the new client device 102 with the network and beacons from base station 108 to announce the area 302 where the new client device 102 is located and the corresponding channel availability.

[0067] In one example, regarding new client bootstrapping, base station 108 selects a different channel for each region 302. Base station 108 embeds information for each region 302 in the beacon as follows: (i) the coordinates of region 302, (ii) the available channel, and (iii) the idle time slot in the corresponding channel (i.e., buffer time slot 402). Base station 108 enters a beacon period at fixed intervals after a UNIX timestamp, where the beacon period timestamp is known to all client devices 102 (old and new devices), and all transmissions are frozen during this period. During the beacon period, base station 108 performs frequency hopping across fixed downlink channels that base station 108 can transmit on. On each channel, base station 108 sends a beacon and hops to the next channel. If base station 108 has multiple radios, it sends beacons in parallel on multiple channels. After the beacon period, normal transmission resumes according to a predefined schedule (channel frequency hopping schedule). Once bootstrapping is complete, base station 108 begins incrementing the buffer time slot 402 assigned to the new client device 102. If buffer slot 402 is full, base station 108 first creates a slot and then goes onboard. Base station 108 also communicates with new client device 102 to instruct it to wait for a period of time before the next join request.

[0068] In one example, regarding new client bootsupplication, new client device 102 synchronizes its time using GPS after a warm boot. New client device 102 has a stored list of beacon channels (as described herein, sent from base station 108, i.e., preloaded). Before entering a beacon cycle, new client device 102 uses GPS to obtain its location. New client device 102 enters a beacon cycle and begins frequency hopping between stored channels, where it listens on each channel (#channel). (Maximum beacon packet transmission time). During the beacon period, the new client device 102 determines its location in area 302 and the corresponding available channel. Before transmission in buffered time slot 402, the new client device 102 has a randomly assigned delay to resolve any hidden node issues. The new client device 102 also implements CAD to avoid collisions. If the new client device 102 receives a time slot unavailable notification, it waits before the next attempt.

[0069] Therefore, TVWS deployments, such as TVWS network deployments for IoT devices, can be performed through this disclosure. In one example, during deployment, base station 108 knows the number of client devices 102 and the number of radios that will be present before deployment. Defined active channels are assigned among the base station radios. For each defined active channel, base station 108 allocates dwell time based on the number of channels assigned to the radios and the average number of client devices 102 per channel. Base station 108 then optimizes the dwell time after onboarding is complete. To handle initial traffic, base station 108 assigns a relatively long initial data transmission time based on the number of new client devices 102 to join.

[0070] In the new deployment, each client device 102 has been assigned at least one channel from the beacon for initial handshake with base station 108. Client device 102 begins sending join requests according to the schedule received from the beacon. Each client device 102 is aware of the quantum and also implements CAD. Once client device 102 receives the join acceptance, it registers for data transmission. In one example, client device 102 expects the following information from base station 108: (i) timestamp, (ii) first data transmission time, (iii) period length of the base station radio (quantum); (iv) time slot length (quantum); (v) channel list (priority); and (vi) bulk beacon time slots (if any).

[0071] Therefore, this disclosure allows devices such as IoT devices to operate in a TVWS network. For example, the various examples described herein can be used for cloud-supported IoT applications. The TVWS IoT implemented as described herein allows for large-scale IoT deployments (such as in agriculture, oil fields, gas fields, etc.) and can be supported by both cloud and edge devices.

[0072] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of method 900, illustrating the operation of a computing device (e.g., base station 108) to configure communication of devices (e.g., client devices 102, such as IoT devices) on a TVWS network. For example, method 900 configures base station 108 to deploy information to multiple client devices 102 to allow client devices 102 to communicate using TVWS spectrum in a specific geographic area.

[0073] It should be recognized that computing devices can be implemented in different systems and applications. Therefore, while the examples described below can be used in conjunction with IoT applications, computing devices configured according to this disclosure can be used in many different applications, such as any application using narrowband communication on a TVWS network.

[0074] At 902, the location of the client device is determined using GPS location information. For example, as described herein, the location is determined by the GPS device on client device 102, and client device 102 communicates the geographic location information to base station 108. After client device 102 has moved a defined distance, etc., the geographic location information can be communicated at defined intervals.

[0075] Based on the determined location information, a TVWS database, such as TVWS database 112, is accessed at 904, and available channels for the client device are determined at 906. For example, using geographic location information received from client device 102, gateway 106 (including base station 108) queries TVWS database 112 using the location information of client device 102. In response, gateway 106 receives a list of available channels in TVWS corresponding to the geographic location of client device 102. That is, gateway 106 determines the channels that client device 102 can communicate on (e.g., unused TVWS channels in area 302).

[0076] It should be noted that in some instances, gateway 106 periodically queries TVWS database 112 and stores available channel information for use when needed. That is, in some examples, gateway 106 does not query TVWS database 112 every time it transmits the list of available channels to client equipment 102. In one example, all client equipment in area 302 periodically reports location information determined from GPS to base station 108. Base station 108 then either accesses the stored available channels corresponding to area 302, or, if the stored available channels were retrieved earlier than a defined time limit (expired information), queries TVWS database 112 to obtain an updated list of channels.

[0077] TVWS database 112 is any data storage that contains information identifying available TVWS channels. For example, TVWS database 112 is also commonly referred to as a geographic location database; it is an entity used to control the television spectrum utilization of unlicensed blank devices within a defined geographic area. TVWS database 112 allows unlicensed access to TVWS spectrum while protecting existing broadcast services.

[0078] At 908, a list of available channels for client device 102 is sent to client device 102. In one example, the list of channels sent to client device 102 is less than the total number of available channels in area 302. Therefore, different subsets of available channels within area 302 are transmitted to different client devices 102 within area 302. Thus, client device 102 is able to communicate using the TVWS spectrum at a specific location of client device 102, i.e., within area 302. That is, using location information reported from client device 102 to gateway 106 (e.g., GPS location information for client device 102), gateway 106 is able to determine available channels by accessing TVWS database 112. For example, gateway 106 searches TVWS data 112 to identify available channels based on the geographic location of client device 102. Thereafter, gateway 106 transmits the available channels to client device 102, thereby identifying to client device 102 which channels client device 102 can transmit on. In some examples, gateway 106 acts as a “middleman” that uses TVWS database 112 and coordinates the available channel access of multiple client devices 102 based on the location information transmitted to gateway 106 by each client device 102.

[0079] Figure 10This is a flowchart of method 1000, illustrating the operation of a computing device (e.g., base station 108) to schedule communication of devices (e.g., client devices 102, such as IoT devices) on a TVWS network. For example, method 1000 configures channel selection and scheduling for base station 108 and multiple client devices 102 to allow client devices 102 to communicate using TVWS spectrum in a specific geographic area.

[0080] At 1002, it is determined whether a TVWS channel is available for communication. As described herein, in some examples, available channels are determined from TVWS database 112. If a channel is unavailable, for example for one or more client devices 102, then at 1004, available channels are determined from TVWS data 112. For example, gateway 106 is enabled to determine available channel information from TVWS database 112, and base station 108 sends an available list to client device 102. If an available channel previously determined from TVWS data 112 exists (and still has an acceptable quality level), then at 1006, a list of available channels is sent to client device 102. In some examples, signal quality information (e.g., RSSI and / or SNR) can be used to determine the best available channel and / or select a channel in area 302.

[0081] Similarly, the quality or availability of one or more available channels may change. That is, an available channel for one or more client devices 102 may become noisy. If the channel is noisy, this is determined at 1008. If the channel is not noisy and therefore acceptable communication is still possible, the channel will continue to be used at 1010. If the channel is determined to be noisy at 1008, the channel is switched at 1012. For example, client device 102 uses one or more frequency hopping techniques described herein to switch between active available channels. It should be noted that the timing (scheduling) of frequency hopping can vary depending on the number of radios, the number of shared channels, etc., as described herein.

[0082] At 1014, it is determined whether any new client device 102 exists. For example, it is determined whether any new client device 102 exists in area 302 and needs to be configured to communicate using available channels and defined timing schedules. If no new client device 102 exists, at 1016, the existing channels and timing schedules are maintained. If one or more new client devices 102 exist, bootstrapping is performed at 1018. For example, as described herein, buffer slot 402 can be used to configure (multiple) new client devices 102. In one example, (multiple) new client devices 102 preload a list of channels, and then (multiple) new client devices 102 listen to the preloaded channels, base station 108 transmits messages on one or more available channels, and (multiple) new client devices 102 select from the available channels based on (multiple) new client device 102's GPS location (which is known). Base station 108 and (multiple) client devices 102 synchronize their time based on GPS time, so (multiple) client devices 102 know when to listen to base station 108's transmissions (during buffer slot 402).

[0083] Therefore, the TVWS network is configured to allow communication, such as communication between IoT devices. For example, this disclosure allows for the deployment of a TVWS IoT network over a large geographical area with varying channel availability.

[0084] Typical operating environment according to Figure 11 The example of functional block diagram 1100 can be used with respect to computing device 1102, such as an IoT device. In one example, according to one or more examples described in this disclosure, components of computing device 1102 may be implemented as part of an electronic device. Computing device 1102 includes one or more processors 1104, which may be a microprocessor, a controller, or any other suitable type of processor, for processing computer-executable instructions to control computing device 1102. Platform software, including operating system 1106 or any other suitable platform software, may be provided on computing device 1102 to enable application software 1108 to execute on computing device 1102. According to the example, communication via a TVWS channel determined by device location information 1110 (e.g., communication implemented via an IoT client device) may be implemented by software and / or hardware.

[0085] Computer-executable instructions may be provided using any computer-readable medium accessible to computing device 1102. Computer-readable media may include, for example, computer storage media, such as memory 1112, and communication media. Computer storage media, such as memory 1112, include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (e.g., computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc.). Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other storage technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical disc storage, cassette tape, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to store information for access by computing device. Conversely, communication media may embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc., in modulated data signals (e.g., carrier waves) or other transmission mechanisms. As defined herein, computer storage media does not include communication media. Therefore, computer storage media itself should not be construed as propagating signals. Propagating signals are not themselves an example of computer storage media. Although the computer storage medium (memory 1112) is shown within the computing device 1102, those skilled in the art will understand that the memory can be remotely distributed or located and accessed via a network or other communication link (e.g., using a communication module, such as communication interface 1114).

[0086] One example of a computing device 1102 includes an input / output controller 1116 configured to output information to one or more input devices 1118 and output devices 1120, such as a display or speaker, which may be separate from or integrated with the electronic device. In some examples, the input / output controller 1116 is configured to receive and process input from one or more input devices 1118, such as control buttons or touchpads. In one example, the output device 1120 acts as the input device 1118. An example of such a device could be a touchscreen display. In one example, the input / output controller 1116 also outputs data to a device other than the output device 1120, such as a locally connected printing device. In some examples, a user provides input to the input devices(s) 1118 and / or receives output from the output devices(s) 1120.

[0087] In one example, computing device 1102 detects voice input, user gestures, or other user actions and provides a natural user interface (NUI). This user input is used for writing electronic ink, viewing content, selecting ink controls, using electronic ink overlays to play videos, and for other purposes. In some examples, input / output controller 1116 outputs data to a device other than a display device, such as a locally connected printing device.

[0088] The functions described herein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. As one example, when executed by processor(s) 1104, computing device 1102 is configured by program code to perform the described operations and functions. Alternatively, or additionally, the functions described herein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. Examples of hardware logic components that can be used, such as, but not limited to, include field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), and graphics processing units (GPUs).

[0089] At least some of the functions of the various elements in the diagram can be performed by other elements in the diagram or entities not shown in the diagram (e.g., processors, web services, servers, applications, computing devices, etc.). Furthermore, in some aspects, computing device 1102 is a base station or client device configured to have communication capabilities on the TVWS spectrum.

[0090] Although described in conjunction with exemplary computing system environments, the examples of this disclosure can be implemented with many other general-purpose or special-purpose computing system environments, configurations, or devices.

[0091] Examples of known computing systems, environments, and / or configurations applicable to various aspects of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, mobile or portable computing devices (e.g., smartphones), personal computers, server computers, handheld (e.g., tablets) or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, game consoles or controllers, microprocessor-based systems, set-top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, mobile phones, mobile computing and / or communication devices in the form of wearables or accessories (e.g., watches, glasses, headphones), network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, distributed computing environments including any of the systems or devices described above. In general, this disclosure can be used with any device possessing processing capabilities to enable it to execute the instructions described herein. Such systems or devices can accept input from a user in any manner, including receiving input from input devices such as keyboards or pointer devices via gesture input, proximity input (e.g., by hovering), and / or voice input.

[0092] Examples of this disclosure can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions (e.g., program modules) that are executed by one or more computers or other devices, such as software, firmware, hardware, or combinations thereof. Computer-executable instructions can be organized into one or more computer-executable components or modules. Typically, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform a particular task or implement a particular abstract data type. Various aspects of this disclosure can be implemented by any number and organization of such components or modules. For example, various aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or specific components or modules shown in the figures and described herein. Other examples of this disclosure may include different computer-executable instructions or components that have more or fewer functions than those shown and described herein.

[0093] In examples involving general-purpose computers, aspects of this disclosure convert a general-purpose computer into a special-purpose computing device when configured to execute the instructions described herein.

[0094] A dynamic spectrum access network includes a dynamic spectrum access database; a gateway including a base station, the gateway being configured to access the dynamic spectrum access database; and a client device configured to communicate with the base station to transmit location information to the base station, wherein the client device is an Internet of Things (IoT) device, the gateway being further configured to determine a list of available dynamic spectrum access channels from the accessed dynamic spectrum access database based on the location information, wherein the dynamic spectrum access channels are narrowband channels, and wherein the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels is transmitted from the base station to the client device.

[0095] Computerized methods for communication using dynamic spectrum access include: determining the location of a client device using GPS location information, wherein the client device is an Internet of Things (IoT) device; accessing a dynamic spectrum access database of dynamic spectrum access channels based on the GPS location information; determining available channels for the client device from the dynamic spectrum access channels based on the GPS location information, wherein the dynamic spectrum access channels are narrowband channels; and sending a list of available channels used by the client device to the client device.

[0096] A dynamic spectrum access Internet of Things (IoT) base station includes an antenna; a plurality of transceivers connected to the antenna via couplers, the plurality of transceivers being configured to communicate with a plurality of IoT devices; and a channel sensing processor configured to evaluate the quality level of the plurality of dynamic spectrum access channels and, based on the evaluated quality, add the dynamic spectrum access channels to a list of available channels, wherein the dynamic spectrum access channels are narrowband channels, and wherein one or more of the plurality of transceivers transmit the list of available channels to the plurality of IoT devices.

[0097] Alternatively, or in addition to the other examples described herein, examples may include any combination of the following: -Where the client device is located within the area, and the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels transmitted to the client device is smaller than the list of all available channels in the area; -The base station divides the communication area into a grid with multiple areas and determines a list of available dynamic spectrum access channels in each of the multiple areas, and the client device is configured to communicate using one or more channels selected from the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels based on the area where the client device is located; - Multiple regions are defined such that at least one dynamic spectrum access channel is available in each of the multiple regions, and the size of each region in the multiple regions is determined based on the average number of client devices in one or more geographic areas within the multiple regions; -The list of available dynamic spectrum access channels transmitted to the client device is less than all available channels in the region, and the list includes no more than three channels; -The list of available dynamic spectrum access channels includes one or more active channels and one or more backup channels, wherein the one or more backup channels are configured to be used when the active channel has a reduced quality level; -The gateway includes an edge device configured to predict the future location of client devices and determine a corresponding updated list of available channels based on the predicted future location, wherein the location information includes Global Positioning System (GPS) location information; -The base station is configured to send an updated list of available channels to the client device, and the client device caches the updated list of available channels; -The gateway includes edge devices and is also configured to predict the future location of client devices, and based on the predicted future location, additional channel frequency hopping scheduling is assigned across available channels from a list of available channels; -The client device is configured to evaluate the quality of one or more channels among a plurality of channels in the region, and to hop frequencies across the plurality of channels when the quality of one or more channels is evaluated as degraded; -The gateway is configured to perform a bootstrapping process to configure the new client device by communicating in a buffer time slot and using time synchronization based on the GPS time of the base station and the GPS time of the new client device; -The client devices include Internet of Things (IoT) devices; the dynamic spectrum access channel includes the TV blank (TVWS) channel and also includes multiple IoT devices sending requests across the mesh network.

[0098] Any ranges or device values ​​given here can be extended or changed without losing the desired effect, as will be apparent to a skilled person.

[0099] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological behavior, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or behaviors described above. Rather, the specific features and behaviors described above are disclosed as exemplary forms for implementing the claims.

[0100] It is understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one example or several examples. These examples are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems, nor are they limited to those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages. It can be further understood that "one" project refers to one or more of these projects.

[0101] The examples shown and described herein, as well as those not specifically described herein but within the scope of the claims, constitute exemplary means of device communication using the TVWS spectrum.

[0102] In this specification, the term "comprising" means including the features or actions that follow, but does not exclude the presence of one or more additional features or actions.

[0103] In some examples, the operations illustrated in the figures can be implemented as software instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium, or as hardware programmed or designed to perform the operations, or both. For example, aspects of this disclosure can be implemented as a system on a chip or other circuitry comprising multiple interconnected conductive elements.

[0104] Unless otherwise specified, the execution or order of operations in the disclosed examples shown and described herein is not important. That is, unless otherwise specified, operations may be performed in any order, and the examples of this disclosure may include more or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, the expectation of performing a particular operation before, simultaneously with, or after another operation falls within the scope of various aspects of this disclosure.

[0105] When describing elements or embodiments thereof in various aspects of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” mean one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to include and mean that there may be other elements besides those listed. The term “exemplary” means “an example.” The phrase “one or more of the following: A, B, and C” means “at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C.”

[0106] Having described in detail the various aspects of this disclosure, it will be apparent that modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope of the various aspects of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims. Since various changes can be made to the above structures, products, and methods without departing from the scope of this disclosure, all matters contained in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A network system, comprising: Dynamic spectrum access database; A gateway, including a base station, is configured to access the dynamic spectrum access database; and A client device is configured to communicate with the base station to transmit the client device's geographical location information to the base station. The gateway mentioned above also includes: Based on the geographical location information of the client device, a list of available dynamic spectrum access channels is determined from the accessed dynamic spectrum access database, and Based on the predicted future location of the client device, channel frequency hopping scheduling is assigned across available channels from the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels. The channel frequency hopping scheduling includes multiple time slots for uplink and downlink transmission and buffer time slots for accommodating new client devices. The client device mentioned above is an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The list of available dynamic spectrum access channels is determined and transmitted from the base station to the client device. The dynamic spectrum access channel mentioned above is a narrowband channel, and The client device is configured to communicate using one or more channels selected from a determined list of available dynamic spectrum access channels, according to the assigned channel frequency hopping schedule.

2. The network system according to claim 1, wherein the gateway determines the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels by: querying the dynamic spectrum access database using the geographical location information of the client device, and receiving the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels from the dynamic spectrum access database based on the geographical location information of the client device, and The client device is located within the area, and the number of channels in the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels transmitted to the client device is less than the number of available channels in the area.

3. The network system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the base station divides the communication area into a grid having multiple regions and determines a list of available dynamic spectrum access channels in each of the multiple regions, and the client device is configured to communicate using one or more channels selected from the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels based on the region where the client device is located.

4. The network system of claim 3, wherein the plurality of regions are defined such that at least one dynamic spectrum access channel is available in each of the plurality of regions, and the size of each of the plurality of regions is determined based on the average number of client devices in one or more geographical regions within the plurality of regions.

5. The network system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the list of available dynamic spectrum access channels includes one or more active channels and one or more backup channels, wherein the one or more backup channels are configured to be used when the active channel has a reduced quality level.

6. The network system according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the gateway includes an edge device configured to predict the future location of the client device in real time and determine an updated list of available channels based on the predicted future location, wherein the geographic location information includes Global Positioning System (GPS) location information, and wherein the base station is configured to send the updated list of available channels to the client device, and the client device caches the updated list of available channels.

7. The network system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the gateway includes an edge device and is further configured to: The future location of the client device is predicted, wherein the plurality of time slots are time periods for uplink and downlink transmissions performed on the available channels, and the buffer time slots are reserved time slots that can be used to accommodate newly added client devices.

8. The network system according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the client device is configured to evaluate the quality of one or more channels among a plurality of channels in a region, and to hop frequencies across the plurality of channels when the quality of the one or more channels is evaluated as degraded.

9. The network system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the gateway is configured to perform a bootstrapping process to configure a new client device by communicating in the buffer time slot and using time synchronization based on the GPS time of the base station and the GPS time of the new client device.

10. A computerized method for communication using dynamic spectrum access, the computerized method comprising: The location of a client device is determined using Global Positioning System (GPS) location information, wherein the client device is an Internet of Things (IoT) device; Using the GPS location information of the client device, query the dynamic spectrum access database of the dynamic spectrum access channel; Based on the GPS location information of the client device, a list of available channels for the client device is determined from the dynamic spectrum access channel, wherein the available channels are narrowband channels; Based on the predicted future location of the client device, a channel frequency hopping schedule is assigned across available channels from the list of available channels, the channel frequency hopping schedule including multiple time slots for uplink and downlink transmission and a buffer time slot for accommodating new client devices; as well as A determined list of available channels is sent to the client device, wherein the client device is configured to communicate using one or more channels selected from the list of available channels according to the assigned channel frequency hopping schedule.

11. The computerized method of claim 10, wherein the client device is located within an area, and the number of channels in the list of available channels transmitted to the client device is less than the number of available channels in the area.

12. The computerized method of claim 11, wherein the number of channels in the list of available channels transmitted to the client device, which is less than the number of available channels in the region, includes no more than three channels.

13. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein the list of available channels includes one or more active channels and one or more backup channels, wherein the one or more backup channels are configured to be used when the active channels have a reduced quality level.

14. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-13, further comprising predicting the future location of the client device and determining an updated list of corresponding available channels based on the predicted future location.

15. The computerized method according to claim 14, further comprising: The updated list of available channels is sent to the client device, and the client device caches the updated list of available channels.

16. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-15, further comprising: Predict the future location of the client device, and based on the predicted future location, assign channel frequency hopping scheduling across available channels from the list of available channels.

17. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-16, wherein the client device is configured to evaluate the quality of one or more channels among a plurality of channels in a region, and to hop frequencies across the plurality of channels when the quality of the one or more channels is evaluated as degraded.

18. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-17, further comprising performing a boot process to configure a new client device by communicating in a buffer time slot and using time synchronization based on the GPS time of the base station and the GPS time of the new client device.

19. The computerized method according to any one of claims 10-18, wherein the dynamic spectrum access channel includes a television blank (TVWS) channel and further includes multiple IoT devices sending requests across the mesh network.

20. A dynamic spectrum access Internet of Things (IoT) base station, comprising: antenna; Multiple transceivers are connected to the antenna via couplers, and the multiple transceivers are configured to communicate with multiple IoT devices; and The channel sensing processor is configured as follows: Assess the quality level of multiple dynamic spectrum access channels. Based on the assessed quality, at least one dynamic spectrum access channel from the plurality of dynamic spectrum access channels is added to the list of available channels, and Based on the predicted future location of the IoT device, channel frequency hopping scheduling is assigned across available channels from the list of available channels. This channel frequency hopping scheduling includes multiple time slots for uplink and downlink transmissions and buffer time slots to accommodate new client devices. One or more of the plurality of transceivers send the list of available channels to the plurality of IoT devices. The dynamic spectrum access channel mentioned above is a narrowband channel.

Images