OPTIMIZED COMBINATION OF PREAMBLE AND DATA FIELDS FOR LOW POWER CONSUMER SENSOR NETWORKS BASED ON THE TELEGRAM SPLITTING METHOD

Description

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a data transmitter for sending data. Further exemplary embodiments relate to a data receiver for receiving data. Some exemplary embodiments relate to an optimized combination of preamble and data fields for low-power sensor networks based on the telegram splitting method.

[0002] German patent DE100 2011 082 098 B4 describes a method for battery-powered transmitters in which the data packet is divided into transmission packets that are smaller than the actual information to be transmitted (so-called telegram splitting). Telegrams are divided into several sub-packets. Such a sub-packet is called a hop. Several information symbols are transmitted in a hop. The hops are transmitted on one frequency or distributed across several frequencies, a process known as frequency hopping. There are pauses between the hops during which no transmission occurs.

[0003] In a typical sensor network, several hundred thousand sensor nodes are covered by just one base station. Since the sensor nodes have very small batteries, coordinating transmissions is often difficult. The telegram splitting method achieves a very high level of transmission reliability in these cases.

[0004] WO 2015 / 128385 A1 describes a data transmission arrangement that incorporates an energy harvesting element as its energy source. This arrangement is designed to transmit data using the telegram splitting method, whereby a partial packet awaiting transmission is either sent, buffered and later transmitted, or discarded, depending on the amount of electrical energy available from the power supply unit.

[0005] The publication [G. Kilian, H. Petkov, R. Psiuk, H. Lieske, F. Beer, J. Robert, and A. Heuberger, "Improved coverage for low-power telemetry systems using telegram splitting", in Proceedings of 2013 European Conference on Smart Objects, Systems and Technologies (SmartSysTech), 2013.] describes an improved range for low-power telemetry systems that use the telegram splitting method.

[0006] The publication [G. Kilian, M. Breiling, HH Petkov, H. Lieske, F. Beer, J. Robert, and A. Heuberger, "Increasing Transmission Reliability for Telemetry Systems Using Telegram Splitting", IEEE Transactions on Communications, vol. 63, no. 3, pp. 949-961, Mar. 2015.] describes improved transmission reliability for low-energy telemetry systems using the telegram splitting method.

[0007] US2016 / 0094269 A1 describes a wireless communication system with multiple base stations and multiple endpoints. The communication system uses telegrams with a CSS-modulated preamble (CSS = Chirp Spread Spectrum, a modulation method based on the so-called chirp pulse) followed by data, where the data is modulated with a lower bandwidth than the preamble.

[0008] US patent 8,175,134 B1 describes a reduced ability for an adversary to detect communication signals by applying frequency hopping, frequency chirping, and direct sequence spreading to the signals. Frequency hopping and chirping can be controlled by pseudorandom functions. Direct sequence spreading can use a pseudorandom chip sequence.

[0009] EP 2 763 321 A1 describes a transmitting device arranged to encode a set of digital input data into a sequence of modulated chirps, wherein the digital input data are encoded according to a Gray code into codewords with several bits and an interleaver which distributes the bits of each codeword into a series of digital modulation values ​​at different bit positions and to synthesize a series of modulated chirps whose cyclic shifts are determined by the modulation values.

[0010] US Patent 2014 / 0269842A1 provides modified frequency-hopping patterns that enable the synchronization of a wireless tracking device with a beacon signal defining a predetermined area (i.e., beacon fence). A beacon can transmit a beacon signal according to a modified frequency-hopping pattern, and a wireless tracking device can receive the beacon signal by tuning a receiver to the frequency-hopping pattern. The modified frequency-hopping pattern can include a reference frequency generated from a highly redundant pattern multiplexed with a pseudorandom sequence of frequencies. The beacon signal packets transmitted at the reference frequency can include an indication of the next frequency according to the modified frequency-hopping pattern.

[0011] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of creating a concept that increases the transmission reliability when transmitting data from a sensor node to a base station without requiring increased computing power on the part of the base station for data detection.

[0012] This problem is solved by the independent patent claims.

[0013] Advantageous further developments can be found in the dependent patent claims.

[0014] Exemplary embodiments provide a data transmitter configured to transmit data time-synchronized to a reference signal using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern; wherein the data transmitter is configured to transmit the reference signal itself, the reference signal comprising at least two preambles, wherein a first preamble of the at least two preambles is transmitted continuously at one frequency; wherein the data transmitter is configured to transmit the first preamble in such a way that it is suitable for complete detection by the receiver; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets, and wherein the data transmitter is configured to transmit the at least two data packets according to the frequency-hopping pattern and time-hopping pattern;wherein the data is a telegram, wherein the data transmitter is configured to split the telegram into at least two data packets, each of the at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; wherein the data transmitter is configured to split a second preamble of the at least two preambles into at least two sub-preambles and to transmit the at least two sub-preambles at a temporal and / or frequency separation from each other; wherein the data transmitter is configured to provide the at least two data packets with the at least two sub-preambles; wherein the at least two sub-preambles are each shorter than the first preamble.

[0015] Exemplary embodiments provide a data receiver configured to receive data time-synchronized to a reference signal using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern, or to extract data from a buffer; wherein the reference signal comprises at least two preambles, a first preamble of the at least two preambles being transmitted continuously at one frequency; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets; wherein the data receiver is configured to receive the at least two data packets according to the frequency-hopping and time-hopping patterns, or to extract them from the buffer; wherein the data is a telegram divided into the at least two data packets, each of the at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; wherein the data receiver is configured to combine the at least two data packets to obtain the telegram;wherein a second preamble of the at least two preambles is divided into at least two sub-preambles and the at least two sub-preambles are transmitted with temporal and / or frequency separation from each other, wherein the at least two data packets are provided with the at least two sub-preambles, wherein the at least two sub-preambles are each shorter than the first preamble.;

[0016] The present invention is based on the idea of ​​transmitting data in a time-synchronized manner to a reference signal using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern. The use of a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern can increase transmission reliability, since the probability that all transmission frequencies or all transmission times specified by the frequency-hopping or time-hopping pattern will be disrupted by an interfering source is lower than the probability that only one transmission frequency or only one transmission time will be disrupted by the interfering source. Furthermore, the computing power required for data detection on the part of the data receiver can be reduced, since the data is transmitted in a time-synchronized manner to the reference signal, which is itself transmitted by the data transmitter.

[0017] Further embodiments provide a method for transmitting data. The method comprises a step of transmitting data using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern synchronized to a reference signal; wherein the reference signal comprises at least two preambles, a first preamble of the at least two preambles being transmitted whole at a single frequency; wherein the first preamble is transmitted in such a way that it is suitable for complete detection by the receiver; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein the at least two data packets are transmitted according to the frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern; wherein the data is a telegram, the telegram being divided into the at least two data packets, each of the at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram;wherein the second preamble of the at least two preambles is divided into at least two sub-preambles and the at least two sub-preambles are transmitted at temporal and / or frequency intervals; wherein the at least two data packets are provided with the at least two sub-preambles, wherein the at least two sub-preambles are each shorter than the first preamble.;

[0018] Further embodiments provide a method for receiving data. The method comprises a step of receiving data using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern synchronized to a reference signal; wherein the reference signal comprises at least two preambles, a first preamble of the at least two preambles being transmitted at a single frequency; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein, during reception, the at least two data packets are received according to the frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern or extracted from the buffer, wherein the data is a telegram divided into the at least two data packets, each of the at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; combining the at least two data packets to obtain the telegram;wherein a second preamble of the at least two preambles is divided into at least two sub-preambles and the at least two sub-preambles are transmitted with temporal and / or frequency separation from each other, wherein the at least two data packets are provided with the at least two sub-preambles, wherein the at least two sub-preambles are each shorter than the first preamble.;

[0019] Further embodiments provide a transmission method for the wireless transmission of data in a communication system (e.g., a sensor network or telemetry system). The method includes a step of transmitting the data using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern, synchronized to a reference signal.

[0020] The following describes preferred embodiments of the data transmitter.

[0021] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter is designed to transmit the data in a time-synchronized manner to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or the time hopping pattern.

[0022] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter can be configured to transmit the data frequency-synchronized to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or the time hopping pattern.

[0023] For example, the data transmitter can be trained to adjust a transmission time or transmission times for sending the data to a time of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the transmission of the data are time-synchronized.

[0024] Furthermore, the data transmitter can be configured to adapt a transmission frequency or frequencies for sending the data to a frequency of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the transmission of the data are frequency-synchronized.

[0025] In exemplary embodiments, the frequency hopping pattern can specify a sequence of transmission frequencies or transmission frequency hoppings with which the data is to be transmitted.

[0026] For example, a first part of the data can be transmitted at a first transmission frequency (or in a first frequency channel), and a second part of the data at a second transmission frequency (or in a second frequency channel), where the first and second transmission frequencies are different. The frequency hopping pattern can define (or specify) the first and second transmission frequencies. Alternatively, the frequency hopping pattern can specify the first transmission frequency and a frequency difference (transmission frequency hop) between the first and second transmission frequencies. Of course, the frequency hopping pattern can also specify only the frequency difference (transmission frequency hop) between the first and second transmission frequencies.

[0027] In exemplary embodiments, the time-jump pattern can specify a sequence of transmission times or transmission time intervals with which the data is to be sent.

[0028] For example, a first part of the data can be sent at a first transmission time (or in a first transmission time slot), and a second part of the data at a second transmission time (or in a second transmission time slot), where the first and second transmission times are different. The time-jump pattern can define (or specify) the first and second transmission times. Alternatively, the time-jump pattern can specify the first transmission time and a time interval between the first and second transmission times. Of course, the time-jump pattern can also specify only the time interval between the first and second transmission times.

[0029] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter can be configured to send the data together with at least one synchronization sequence using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0030] In exemplary embodiments, the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein the data transmitter is configured to transmit the at least two data packets according to the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0031] For example, the at least two data packets can each contain a different or overlapping part of the data, so that the data is not transmitted in one go, but split across the data packets.

[0032] The data is a telegram, and the data sender is trained to split the telegram into at least two data packets, each of which is shorter than the telegram.

[0033] The data sender can be configured to include synchronization sequences or partial synchronization sequences in at least some of the data packets. Accordingly, some data packets may contain only data. Some data packets may contain both data and a synchronization sequence or partial synchronization sequence. Some data packets may contain only a synchronization sequence or partial synchronization sequence.

[0034] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter is configured to transmit the reference signal itself, wherein the reference signal is a preamble. The data transmitter can be configured to transmit the preamble in such a way that it is suitable for complete detection by the receiver.

[0035] For example, the data sender can be trained to transmit the preamble in such a way that it can be detected on its own by a data receiver. If the correct timing of the preamble is detected by the receiver, then the data can be decoded without further detection.

[0036] In some embodiments, the data transmitter can be configured to send the preamble continuously, i.e., without interruption or pause. The data transmitter can also be configured to send the preamble before, after, or between the data in such a way that the transmission of the preamble is not superimposed on the transmission of the data.

[0037] For example, the data transmitter can be trained to transmit the data and the preamble at different transmission times and / or on different transmission frequencies, so that the transmission of the preamble is not superimposed on the transmission of the data.

[0038] The data transmitter can be configured to send the preamble at a lower data rate than the data itself. This makes it possible to detect the preamble at the receiver even with a low signal-to-noise ratio.

[0039] The data transmitter can be trained to send the preamble using a different modulation type or modulation method than the data.

[0040] For example, the data transmitter can be configured to transmit the preamble in modulated form BPSK (BPSK = Binary Phase-Shift Keying), OFDM (OFDM = Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing), or CSS (CSS = Chirp Spread Spectrum), and to transmit the data in modulated form UNB (UNB = ultra narrow-band).

[0041] The data transmitter is configured to send data using the telegram splitting method. The data is a telegram, and the data transmitter is configured to split the telegram into a plurality of data packets (or data sub-packets or partial data packets), each of which is shorter than the original telegram. The plurality of data packets are sent using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or a time-hopping pattern. For example, each of the plurality of data packets is assigned a transmission frequency (or a transmission frequency hop relative to a previous data packet) and / or a transmission time (or transmission time interval, or transmission time slot, transmission time hop relative to a previous data packet) by the frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern. Furthermore, the plurality of data packets can be sent with a time interval, so that there are transmission pauses between the data packets.

[0042] The data transmitter can be configured to transmit additional data along with the preamble in one go. This additional data can be appended to or prepended to the preamble. Of course, it is also possible for part of the preamble to be transmitted before the additional data and another part after.

[0043] At least some of the additional data transmitted with the preamble may contain information regarding the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern used to transmit the data.

[0044] In exemplary embodiments, the reference signal includes at least two preambles.

[0045] The data transmitter can be configured to transmit the at least two preambles with different modulation types or modulation methods. Furthermore, the data transmitter can be configured to transmit the at least two preambles at different data rates. Finally, the data transmitter can be configured to transmit the at least two preambles on different transmission frequencies.

[0046] The data transmitter can be designed to transmit the at least two preambles in such a way that the at least two preambles are each suitable for complete detection on the receiver side.

[0047] For example, the data transmitter can be configured to transmit the at least two preambles in such a way that each preamble is individually detectable by the receiver, so that only one preamble is still needed to determine the correct reference time. The two preambles can be transmitted on different frequencies.

[0048] For example, the data sender can be trained to transmit the same preamble multiple times (at least twice).

[0049] The data transmitter can be configured to transmit the at least two preambles in such a way that a first preamble of the at least two preambles is only suitable for coarse detection on the receiver side, and that a second preamble of the at least two preambles is suitable for complete detection on the receiver side.

[0050] For example, the data transmitter can be configured to send the first preamble in such a way that it is easily detectable by the receiver in the received data stream. While the detection of the first preamble provides only low temporal accuracy at the receiver, this is sufficient to locate the second preamble within the received data stream, based on which the actual detection or synchronization is then performed.

[0051] The data transmitter can further be configured to transmit additional data together with a first preamble of at least two preambles in a single transmission, wherein the additional data transmitted together with the first preamble can contain information regarding a second preamble of at least two preambles. The information contained in the additional data can, for example, signal a time interval or frequency difference between the at least two preambles.

[0052] The data transmitter is further equipped to divide one of the at least two preambles into at least two sub-preambles and to transmit the at least two sub-preambles at intervals in time and / or frequency.

[0053] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter can be configured to emit the reference signal itself, wherein the reference signal is a temporally deterministically repeated signal (e.g., a beacon).

[0054] For example, the data transmitter could be a base station that emits a beacon. At a known distance, the base station then transmits data to specific sensor nodes.

[0055] The data transmitter can be configured to transmit the reference signal before, after, or between the data in such a way that the transmission of the reference signal is not superimposed on the transmission of the data.

[0056] The data transmitter can be configured to send the reference signal at a different data rate than the data. The data transmitter can also be configured to send the reference signal using a different modulation type or modulation method than the data.

[0057] The data transmitter can be configured to transmit additional data along with the reference signal in a single transmission. At least some of the additional data transmitted along with the reference signal can contain information regarding the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern used to transmit the data.

[0058] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter can include a receiver configured to receive the reference signal from another data transmitter. The reference signal can be a time-deterministically repeated signal (e.g., a beacon).

[0059] For example, the data transmitter can be a sensor node that receives the beacon from a base station and, in response to the beacon's reception, transmits the data in sync with the beacon.

[0060] The following describes preferred embodiments of the data receiver.

[0061] In exemplary embodiments, the data receiver is designed to receive the data in a time-synchronized manner to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern, or to extract the data from the buffer.

[0062] In exemplary embodiments, the data receiver can be configured to receive the data in a time-synchronized and frequency-synchronized manner to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern, or to extract the data from the buffer.

[0063] For example, the data receiver can be trained to adjust a reception time or times for receiving the data to a time of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the reception of the data are time-synchronized.

[0064] Furthermore, the data receiver can be configured to adapt a receiving frequency or frequencies for receiving the data to a frequency of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the reception of the data are frequency synchronized.

[0065] In exemplary embodiments, the frequency hopping pattern can specify a sequence of receive frequencies or receive frequency hoppings with which the data is to be received.

[0066] For example, a first part of the data can be received at a first receive frequency (or in a first frequency channel), and a second part of the data at a second receive frequency (or in a second frequency channel), where the first and second receive frequencies are different. The frequency hopping pattern can define (or specify) the first and second receive frequencies. Alternatively, the frequency hopping pattern can specify the first receive frequency and a frequency difference (receive frequency hop) between the first and second receive frequencies. Of course, the frequency hopping pattern can also specify only the frequency difference (receive frequency hop) between the first and second receive frequencies.

[0067] In exemplary embodiments, the time jump pattern can specify a sequence of reception times or reception time intervals with which the data is to be received.

[0068] For example, a first part of the data can be received at a first reception time (or in a first reception time slot), and a second part of the data at a second reception time (or in a second reception time slot), where the first and second reception times are different. The time-jump pattern can define (or specify) the first and second reception times. Alternatively, the time-jump pattern can specify the first reception time and a time interval between the first and second reception times. Of course, the time-jump pattern can also specify only the time interval between the first and second reception times.

[0069] In exemplary embodiments, the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein the data receiver is configured to receive the at least two data packets according to the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern or to extract them from the buffer.

[0070] The data is a telegram that is divided into at least two data packets, each of which is shorter than the telegram itself. The data receiver is equipped to combine these two data packets to receive the telegram.

[0071] In some implementation examples, the reference signal can be a preamble.

[0072] The data receiver can be trained to receive the preamble in one go or to extract it from the buffer.

[0073] Furthermore, the data receiver can be configured to receive the preamble together with other data in one go or to extract it from the buffer. The other data, which is received together with the preamble or extracted from the buffer, can contain information regarding the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern, and the data receiver can be configured to receive or extract the data using this information regarding the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0074] In exemplary embodiments, the reference signal comprises two preambles.

[0075] One of the at least two preambles may be suitable for coarse detection, while a second preamble may be suitable for complete detection. The data receiver may be trained to perform coarse detection using the first preamble and complete detection using the second preamble.

[0076] The data receiver can be configured to receive or extract from buffer additional data along with a first preamble of at least two preambles. This additional data can include information regarding a second preamble of the two preambles, and the data receiver can be configured to detect the second preamble in a received data stream using this information. For example, the information contained in the additional data can signal a time or frequency interval between the two preambles, and the data receiver can be configured to detect the second preamble using this signaled time or frequency interval.

[0077] The two preambles can each be suitable for complete detection. The data receiver can be trained to receive the data immediately if one of the two preambles is successfully detected, without performing a detection of the other preamble. Furthermore, the data receiver can be trained to perform a detection of the other preamble if one of the two preambles is unsuccessful. Finally, the data receiver can be trained to combine the two preambles to perform a detection if both preambles are unsuccessfully detected.

[0078] In some embodiments, the data receiver can be configured to transmit the reference signal itself. The reference signal can be a time-deterministically repeated signal (e.g., a beacon).

[0079] For example, the data receiver can be a base station that is trained to transmit a beacon and to receive data transmitted by a sensor node responding to the beacon in a time-synchronized manner.

[0080] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic block diagram of a system with a data transmitter and a data receiver, according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 in a diagram an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data which are transmitted by means of a frequency and time jump pattern, wherein the reference signal is arranged temporally before the data 120; Fig. 3 in a diagram an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data which are transmitted by means of a frequency and time jump pattern, wherein the reference signal is arranged temporally between the data such that a transmission of the reference signal is not superimposed on a transmission of the data; Fig.4. In a diagram, an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency- and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signal is positioned temporally before the data and is transmitted at a lower data rate than the data; Fig. 5. In a diagram, an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency- and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signal is positioned temporally before the data and wherein the reference signal is frequency-spread; Fig. 6. In a diagram, an arrangement of three reference signals relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency- and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signals are positioned temporally between the data such that the transmission of the reference signals is not superimposed on the transmission of the data; Fig.7. In a diagram, an arrangement of three reference signals relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signals are positioned temporally between the data such that the transmission of the reference signals is not superimposed on the transmission of the data, and wherein the reference signals have a fixed time and frequency spacing from each other; Fig. 8. In a diagram, an arrangement of a reference signal relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signal is positioned temporally before the data, and wherein the data packets are provided with additional synchronization sequences; Fig. 9. In a diagram, repeating arrangements of reference signals and data transmitted by means of frequency and time-hopping patterns, wherein the reference signal is always positioned temporally before the data; Fig.Figure 10 shows an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency and time-hopping pattern in a diagram, wherein the reference signal is arranged temporally before the data, and wherein further data is transmitted together with the reference signal; Figure 11 shows an arrangement of the reference signal relative to the data transmitted by means of a frequency and time-hopping pattern in a diagram, wherein the reference signal is arranged temporally before the data, and wherein further data is transmitted together with the reference signal, the further data containing information, for example, about the frequency and time-hopping pattern or the length; FigureFigure 12 shows an arrangement of three reference signals relative to the data, which are transmitted by means of a frequency and time-hopping pattern, wherein the reference signals are positioned temporally between the data such that the transmission of the reference signals is not superimposed on the transmission of the data, and wherein the reference signals are transmitted together with other data; Figure 13 shows a flowchart of a method for transmitting data, according to an embodiment; and Figure 14 shows a flowchart of a method for receiving data, according to an embodiment.

[0081] In the following description of the embodiments of the present invention, identical or equivalent elements in the figures are provided with the same reference numeral, so that their descriptions in the different embodiments are interchangeable.

[0082] Fig. 1Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a system with a data transmitter 100 and a data receiver 110, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system uses a frequency hopping pattern and / or a time hopping pattern to transmit data 120 from the data transmitter 100 to the data receiver 110.

[0083] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter 100 is configured to transmit the data 120 in a time-synchronized manner to a reference signal 130 using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0084] In exemplary embodiments, the data receiver 110 is configured to receive the data 120 using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern in a time-synchronized manner to the reference signal 130.

[0085] In Fig. 1For example, it is assumed that the data is transmitted using a frequency- and time-hopping pattern (i.e., a combination of a frequency-hopping pattern and a time-hopping pattern) 140. Of course, the data 120 can also be transmitted using only a frequency-hopping pattern or only a time-hopping pattern.

[0086] A frequency hopping pattern can be a sequence of transmission frequencies or transmission frequency hops with which the data transmitter 100 sends the data.

[0087] For example, a first part of the data can be transmitted at a first transmission frequency (or in a first frequency channel), and a second part of the data at a second transmission frequency (or in a second frequency channel), where the first and second transmission frequencies are different. The frequency hopping pattern can define (or specify) the first and second transmission frequencies. Alternatively, the frequency hopping pattern can specify the first transmission frequency and a frequency difference (transmission frequency hop) between the first and second transmission frequencies. Of course, the frequency hopping pattern can also specify only the frequency difference (transmission frequency hop) between the first and second transmission frequencies.

[0088] A time-jump pattern can be a sequence of transmission times or transmission time intervals with which the data sender 100 sends the data.

[0089] For example, a first part of the data can be sent at a first transmission time (or in a first transmission time slot), and a second part of the data at a second transmission time (or in a second transmission time slot), where the first and second transmission times are different. The time-jump pattern can define (or specify) the first and second transmission times. Alternatively, the time-jump pattern can specify the first transmission time and a time interval between the first and second transmission times. Of course, the time-jump pattern can also specify only the time interval between the first and second transmission times.

[0090] As already mentioned, the data transmitter 100 is designed to transmit the data in sync with the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0091] The data transmitter 100 can therefore be configured to adjust the transmission of the data to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0092] For example, the data transmitter 100 can be configured to adjust a transmission time or transmission times for sending the data to a time of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the transmission of the data are time-synchronized.

[0093] For example, the data transmitter 100 can be configured to adapt a transmission time (e.g., a transmission time in the case of a pure frequency hopping pattern or the transmission times (e.g., first transmission time and second transmission time) in the case of a pure time hopping pattern or a combined frequency and time hopping pattern) to a transmission or reception time of the reference signal, so that a fixed time relationship (e.g., time interval or time intervals) is maintained between the transmission or reception time of the reference signal and the transmission time(s) of the data.

[0094] The data transmitter 100 can further be configured to transmit the data frequency-synchronized to the reference signal using the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0095] For example, the data transmitter 100 can be configured to match a transmission frequency or frequencies for sending the data to a frequency of the reference signal, so that the reference signal and the transmission of the data are frequency synchronized.

[0096] For example, the data transmitter 100 can be configured to adapt a transmission frequency (e.g., a transmission frequency in the case of a pure time-jump pattern, or the transmission frequencies (e.g., first transmission frequency and second transmission frequency) in the case of a pure frequency-jump pattern or a combined frequency and time-jump pattern) to a transmission or reception frequency of the reference signal, so that a fixed frequency relationship (e.g., same frequency, or frequency spacing or frequency spacing) is maintained between the transmission or reception frequency of the reference signal and the transmission frequency(ies) of the data.

[0097] A time and frequency hopping pattern 140 can be the combination of a frequency hopping pattern and a time hopping pattern, i.e. a sequence of transmission times or transmission time intervals with which the data transmitter 100 transmits the data, wherein the transmission times (or transmission time intervals) are associated with transmission frequencies (or transmission frequency hoppings).

[0098] In exemplary embodiments, the data comprise at least two data packets 142 and 144, which are transmitted from the data transmitter 100 to the data receiver 110 according to the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0099] The data can be transmitted in such a way that there are transmission pauses (pauses in which the data sender does not transmit) between at least the two data packets 142 and 144.

[0100] The data is a telegram that is split into at least two data packets 142 and 144, each of which is shorter than the telegram.

[0101] In exemplary embodiments, the data transmitter 100 can have a transmitter 102 configured to send the data 120. The transmitter 102 can be connected to an antenna 104 of the data transmitter 100. The data transmitter 100 can also have a receiver 106 configured to receive data. The receiver can be connected to the antenna 104 or to another (separate) antenna of the data transmitter 100. The data transmitter 100 can also have a combined transmit-receive unit (transceiver).

[0102] The data receiver 110 may have a receiving device (receiver) 116 configured to receive the data 120. The receiving device 116 may be connected to an antenna 114 of the data receiver 110. Furthermore, the data receiver 110 may have a transmitting device (transmitter) 112 configured to transmit data. The transmitting device 112 may be connected to the antenna 114 or to another (separate) antenna of the data receiver 110.

[0103] In some embodiments, the data transmitter 100 can be a sensor node, while the data receiver 110 can be a base station. Of course, it is also possible for the data transmitter 100 to be a base station, while the data receiver 110 is a sensor node. Furthermore, it is possible for both the data transmitter 100 and the data receiver 110 to be sensor nodes. It is also possible for both the data transmitter 100 and the data receiver 110 to be base stations.

[0104] The following are detailed examples of the implementation based on Fig. 1 The presented transmission method, which can be carried out by the data sender 100 and the data receiver 110, is explained in more detail.

[0105] Techniques are presented that make it possible to extend existing standard receivers with the telegram splitting method. This can result in improved interference immunity, better throughput, and generally also better energy consumption at the data receiver (e.g., sensor node) 110.

[0106] In a typical Type 110 receiver, the synchronization and detection of telegrams is usually the biggest challenge and requires the most processing power. If detection is also performed using the telegram splitting method, this typically increases energy consumption even further.

[0107] To circumvent this and still achieve high interference immunity, which is achieved through the telegram splitting method, a combination of a (classic) preamble and the telegram splitting method is used in exemplary implementations.

[0108] The receiver detection is generally not modified, so all existing algorithms can still be used. The relatively simple decoder can be extended to include telegram splitting.

[0109] The detection of telegrams in the telegram splitting method is conventionally also carried out using split hops (data packets or sub-data packets). Since the energy transmitted in a single hop is usually insufficient for detection, the preamble must be split across multiple hops. At the receiver, these hops must be reassembled, requiring significant computational effort, in order to enable detection. First detailed example

[0110] To avoid this problem, one or more preambles can be transmitted whole instead of split. This allows the use of classical detection methods, which require significantly less computing power than split preambles. The data can then be transmitted using telegram splitting to ensure interference immunity, as described in Fig. 2 shown.

[0111] In detail, it shows Fig. 2 In a diagram, the reference signal 130 is arranged relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140, with the reference signal 130 being positioned temporally before the data 120. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0112] As in Fig. 2As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted before the data 120 (in data packets 142 and 144).

[0113] In other words, Fig. 2 shows the structure of a telegram with a classic preamble 130 and the data 120 with telegram splitting.

[0114] The preamble 130 can usually have a different length than the data hops (data packets or sub-data packets) 142 and 144. Additionally, the lengths of data hops 142 and 144 can vary and are therefore not constant.

[0115] Hops 142 and 144 contain (as before) further preambles. This includes the addition of preamble 130.

[0116] In these implementation examples, the user data is not spread out. Furthermore, the user data can be transmitted with error protection.

[0117] In exemplary embodiments, the preamble 130 can be narrower or the same width relative to the data 120. In other words, the data rate at which the preamble 130 is transmitted can be different from or the same as the data rate at which the data 120 (or the data packets 142 and 144) are transmitted.

[0118] In exemplary embodiments, the preamble 130 is transmitted in one piece (either on the transmitter side or on the waveform side). The data 120 are distributed in time and optionally in frequency using the telegram splitting method.

[0119] In exemplary embodiments, the (preceding) transmitted preamble 130 can be used for detection (either on the receiver or decoder side). After successful detection, the data 120 can be received according to the hopping pattern in time and frequency or extracted from a buffer and subjected to symbol recovery. Second detailed example

[0120] If a coordinated system is used, then the data 120 cannot be transmitted based on the previously transmitted preamble, but rather on the basis of the base station's beacon.

[0121] The reference is therefore no longer a (previously) transmitted signal, but a received one. However, the scheme can be the same; the data 120 can be distributed in time and frequency using the telegram splitting method based on the beacon.

[0122] Another advantage is the higher interference immunity if multiple transmitters occupy the same frequency resource. Due to the system's coordination, the access method is slotted ALOHA.

[0123] In exemplary implementations, a bidirectional system with the transmission of a reference signal (beacon) can be used (on the transmitter side or the waveform side). The data 120 can be distributed in time and optionally in frequency using the telegram splitting method and transmitted at the time and optionally at the frequency of the beacon.

[0124] In some implementations, a transmitted reference signal (beacon) can be used for detection (either on the receiver or decoder side). After successful detection of the beacon, the data 120 can be received according to the hopping pattern in time and frequency, or extracted from a buffer and subjected to symbol recovery. Third detailed example

[0125] Data hops 142 and 144 do not necessarily have to be transmitted after preamble 130. It is also possible to append data 120 before preamble 130. Another possibility would be to send data 120 in a different channel in parallel with preamble 130.

[0126] In general, any combination of the previous methods is possible, for example, that 120 data points are collected before and after the preamble.

[0127] It is only necessary that receiver 110 knows the positions of data hops 142 and 144 relative to the preamble 130. Hops 142 and 144 can optionally be distributed in frequency using frequency hopping. This scheme is described in Fig. 3 illustrated.

[0128] In detail, it shows Fig. 3In a diagram, the reference signal 130 is arranged relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140, with the reference signal 130 being positioned temporally between the data 120. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0129] As in Fig. 3 As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted, at least partially, between the data 120 (or data packets 142 and 144) in such a way that the transmission of the preamble 130 is not superimposed on the transmission of the data 120.

[0130] In other words, Fig. 3 shows the structure of a telegram with a classic preamble 130 and the data 120 with telegram splitting, whereby the data 120 does not necessarily have to be sent after the preamble 130.

[0131] The advantage of this methodology lies in the extended coherence time, as this can now be used in both directions (before and after preamble 130).

[0132] In the exemplary embodiments, the preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece (on the transmitter side or on the waveform side), wherein the data 120 are distributed in time and optionally in frequency before, after and / or during the preamble 130 using the telegram splitting method.

[0133] In exemplary embodiments, the (preceding) transmitted preamble 130 can be used for detection (either on the receiver or decoder side). After successful detection, the data 120 can be extracted in time and frequency according to the hopping pattern. Fourth detailed example

[0134] To enable detection even with a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the data rate can be adjusted according to the preamble length. This means that the data rate of the preamble (130) is generally different from that of the data (120), which is transmitted using the telegram splitting method. Such a setup is shown in Figure 1. Fig. 4 .

[0135] In detail, it shows Fig. 4 In a diagram, the reference signal 130 is arranged relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140, with the reference signal 130 being positioned temporally before the data 120. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0136] As in Fig. 4As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted before the data 120 (in data packets 142 and 144). The preamble 130 can be transmitted at a lower data rate than the data 120. The lower data rate of the preamble 130 compared to the data 120 is explained in Fig. 4 indicated by the width of the signal in the frequency direction.

[0137] In other words, Fig. 4 shows a structure of a telegram with a classic preamble 130, the data 120 with telegram splitting, whereby the data rate of the preamble has been reduced.

[0138] For example, for a typical preamble length in the range of 16 to 32 symbols, the data rate of the preamble 130 can be about 10 to 20 times lower than the data rate of the data 120, which is encoded with a low code rate of FEC (FEC = Forward Error Correction) and transmitted with telegram splitting.

[0139] In some embodiments, the preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece (either on the transmitter side or on the waveform side), while the data 120 are transmitted using the telegram splitting method. The data rate of the preamble 130 can vary from that used for the data 120.

[0140] In some implementation examples, a different data rate can be used for decoding after detection (either on the receiver or on the decoder side), thus changing, for example, the sampling rate or switching the matched filter (optimal filter). Fifth detailed example

[0141] Some modulation types are easier to detect. Others, however, offer better performance in terms of bandwidth efficiency and noise impact.

[0142] By dividing the telegram into preamble (130) and data (120), the modulation type for both processes can be selected independently. This allows the best modulation methods for detection and data to be chosen independently for the application.

[0143] For example, BPSK (Binary Phase-Shift Keying) can be used for synchronization, while MSK (Minimum Shift Keying) can be used for the data.

[0144] In exemplary embodiments, the preamble 130 (on the transmitter side or waveform side) can have a different modulation type than the data 120.

[0145] In some implementation examples, a different modulation type can be used for decoding after detection (either on the receiver or on the decoder side), thus changing, for example, the sampling rate or switching the matched filter (optimal filter). Sixth detailed example

[0146] The previous idea can be further expanded by using a completely different transmission method for the preamble / synchronization 130. In principle, any combination is possible, be it a spreading method, narrowband, or even OFDM (OFDM = Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing).

[0147] For example, a spreading technique can be used for synchronization, as described in Fig. 5 shown.

[0148] In detail, it shows Fig. 5In a diagram, an arrangement of the reference signal 130 relative to the data 120, which are transmitted by means of a frequency and time jump pattern 140, wherein the reference signal 130 is positioned temporally before the data 120, and wherein the reference signal 130 is frequency spread. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0149] As in Fig. 5As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted before the data 120 (in data packets 142 and 144). A Chirp Spread Spectrum (CSS) method can be used for the preamble 130, while the data 120 can be transmitted in the normal way using the telegram splitting method. Alternatively, a normal frequency-hopping method can be used instead of the telegram splitting method, so that no pauses (transmission pauses) are inserted between sub-packets 142 and 144.

[0150] In other words, Fig. 5 shows a structure of a telegram with preamble 130, the data 120 with telegram splitting, whereby the preamble 130 was modulated with a CSS method (CSS = Chirp Spread Spectrum).

[0151] For detection, a CSS preamble can be used, while the data can be transmitted using UNB modulation. However, the data (120) is not transmitted continuously on a single frequency, but rather distributed over time and frequency using frequency hopping and / or telegram splitting. This results in the significant advantage of even higher interference immunity in uncoordinated transmission (e.g., ALOHA or Slotted ALOHA). This advantage also applies to coordinated systems, because the frequency-hopping and telegram splitting methods prevent parts of the telegram from being transmitted simultaneously on the same frequency, allowing the receiver (110) to recover these missing parts through error correction.

[0152] In exemplary embodiments, the transmission method of the preamble 130 (on the transmitter side or waveform side) may not be identical to the transmission method of the data 120.

[0153] In some implementation examples, a different method for recovering the symbols can be used (either on the receiver side or on the decoder side) after detection for decoding. Seventh detailed example

[0154] With the previous methods, synchronization can now be detected with moderate computational effort, but a problem with interference immunity remains. If, in the cases described above, an interfering signal is active in the same frequency band as the reference signal during transmission and has a higher power output at the receiver, the telegram usually cannot be detected.

[0155] To counteract this problem, not only can a preamble 130 be sent, but a preamble 130 can also be inserted before, after, and / or between the data 120 from time to time. This shows Fig. 6 .

[0156] In detail, it shows Fig. 6In a diagram, an arrangement of three reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 is shown relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140. The reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 are positioned temporally between the data 120 such that the transmission of the reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 is not superimposed on the transmission of the data 120. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0157] As in Fig. 6 As shown, the reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 can be preambles. Preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can each be transmitted consecutively.

[0158] In other words, Fig. 6 shows the structure of a telegram with several preambles 130_1 to 130_3 and the data 120 which are transmitted by means of telegram splitting.

[0159] If one of the preambles 130_1 to 130_3 is not found due to interference, only part of the telegram is lost and the rest can be recovered by forward error correction (FEC), as used in telegram splitting.

[0160] In contrast to Telegram splitting, it should be noted that here each preamble can be detected independently with a similar (only a few dB difference) signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) required for decoding.

[0161] In exemplary embodiments, several preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can be included in a packet (or telegram) (on the transmitter side or on the waveform side), but these do not have to have the same data rate or the same modulation method as that for the data 120.

[0162] In some implementation examples, each preamble 130_1 to 130_3 can be decoded individually (either on the receiver or decoder side), with the data being decoded according to the detection. If part of the telegram is missing, it can be inserted into the received data stream before forward error correction (FEC). Eighth detailed example

[0163] Similar to Telegram Splitting, the pauses and frequency jumps between preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can be defined, as shown in Fig. 7 shown.

[0164] In detail, it shows Fig. 7In a diagram, an arrangement of three reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 is shown relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140. The reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 are temporally positioned between the data 120 such that the transmission of the reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 is not superimposed on the transmission of the data 120. The reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 have a fixed time and frequency interval between them. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0165] As in Fig. 7 As shown, the reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 can be preambles. The preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can each be transmitted consecutively. Furthermore, the reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 each have a fixed time interval Δt 1 and Δt 2 and a fixed frequency interval Δf 1 and Δf 2 from each other.

[0166] This offers the advantage that even if the preamble is corrupted (e.g., the first preamble 130_1), it is still possible to infer the behavior of all data hops 142 and 144. This increases the noise immunity of the data 120 compared to the previous case.

[0167] However, unlike telegram splitting, each preamble 130_1 to 130_3 can still be detected individually with a similar signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) compared to the SNR required for decoding (only a few dB difference). This means that, unlike the telegram splitting method, detection works even with just a single preamble. A further advantage of coupling preambles 130_1 to 130_3 to each other using a defined pattern is that if the first preamble 130_1 is successfully detected, the remaining preambles (second preamble 130_2 and third preamble 130_3) no longer need to be detected, thus saving further processing power.

[0168] At low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values, there is also the possibility of combining the individual detection results of each preamble to obtain an overall detection probability.

[0169] In some implementation examples, several preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can be included in a packet (or telegram) (either on the transmitter or decoder side). A defined time and frequency pattern exists between these preambles 130_1 to 130_3.

[0170] In some embodiments, each preamble 130_1 to 130_3 can be decoded individually (either on the transmitter side or on the waveform side). However, the receiver 110 can infer the undetectable preambles from a received preamble and thus use all data for decoding. Furthermore, detection can be terminated after receiving a preamble. Ninth detailed example

[0171] If the time intervals between preambles 130_1 to 130_3 are known, it is sufficient, as shown in the previous example, to detect only one of the preambles.

[0172] Instead of transmitting all preambles 130_1 to 130_3 with the same data rate and modulation method, both the modulation and the data rate of the individual preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can be varied. This allows, for example, the use of a very easy-to-detect preamble for simple receivers. For more complex receivers, a more computationally intensive detection method using a different preamble is available.

[0173] If, as described in the second detailed embodiment, the data rate of the preamble is reduced, the temporal resolution of the detection deteriorates by the factor by which the data rate is reduced. However, the approach described above allows full accuracy to be achieved with two preambles without significant computational effort. For this, a "coarse" synchronization is first performed using the simple method, and if a matching preamble is found, the fine detection can be calculated on the other preamble.

[0174] Depending on the performance class, there are four detection options. First, low-power detection based on the easily found preamble. Second, low-power detection based on the easily found preamble followed by a more refined detection based on the previous one. Third, high-power detection based on the more complex preamble. Fourth, a combination of high-power detection based on the more complex preamble and low-power detection based on the easily found preamble.

[0175] In exemplary implementations, different modulation types and / or different data rates can be used for the preambles (on the transmitter side or on the waveform side). Tenth detailed example

[0176] Instead of the possibility of using different preambles for different recipients as described in the ninth detailed embodiment, a so-called pre- and / or post- and / or intermediate preamble can also be inserted, which is easy to detect.

[0177] This involves inserting a second preamble before the actual preamble. This second preamble can be detected without significant computational effort, but it offers relatively low temporal accuracy. Once the second preamble is detected, only a small temporal search range needs to be examined for the actual preamble.

[0178] The preliminary preamble typically has a different data rate than the actual preamble. To make the preliminary preamble easier to detect, its data rate is usually reduced further.

[0179] The length of the preliminary preamble can differ from the length of the actual preamble. It is also possible to choose a different modulation style.

[0180] This method has the advantage over the previous one that all preambles can be detected even with a simple receiver.

[0181] In some embodiments, a further sequence known to the receiver can be transmitted (either on the transmitter side or on the waveform side) before the actual preamble.

[0182] In some implementation examples, a pre-detection can be performed (either on the receiver side or on the decoder side), and if this is successful, a further, finer detection can be carried out within a certain search area. Eleventh detailed example

[0183] To achieve higher detection capability in the event of interference, with sufficient computing power, and / or more precise synchronization and / or better frequency estimation, synchronization sequences can be inserted into the hops in addition to the preambles, or additional dedicated synchronization hops can be included in the telegram, as described in Fig. 8 shown.

[0184] In detail, it shows Fig. 8 In a diagram, an arrangement of a reference signal 130 relative to the data 120, which are transmitted by means of a frequency and time jump pattern 140, wherein the reference signal 130 is positioned temporally before the data 120, and the data packets (hops) are provided with additional synchronization sequences. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0185] As in Fig. 8As shown, the reference signal 130 can be a preamble. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. Furthermore, the data packets are at least partially provided with synchronization sequences, so that in addition to data packets 142 and 144 containing only data, there are also data packets 146 and 149, which contain both data and synchronization sequences, and data packets 147 and 148, which contain only synchronization sequences.

[0186] In other words, Fig. 8 shows a combination of a preamble 130 for coarse detection and synchronization sequences for fine detection in hops 146 to 149.

[0187] Preamble 130 would then be used for the purpose of coarse packet detection and would only need to fulfill this criterion. This would significantly reduce the length of the preamble in most cases.

[0188] If a receiver has sufficient processing power, it is possible to calculate the detection directly on the synchronization sequences in hops 146 to 149. This offers the advantage of improved noise immunity during detection.

[0189] In exemplary implementations, in addition to the actual preamble, 130 further synchronization sequences can be included in the hops or pure synchronization hops in the telegram (on the transmitter side or waveform side).

[0190] In some implementations, a preliminary detection can be performed (either on the receiver or decoder side), and if successful, a further, more precise detection can be carried out within a certain search area. High-performance receivers can calculate the detection directly at the hops. Twelfth detailed example

[0191] When data repetition is used, the data can be combined into a final result using MRC (Maximum Ratio Combining, a diversity method for recovering a signal from the combined individual signals) or other techniques. This significantly increases the data's immunity to interference and its performance against noise, depending on the number of repetitions used. In practice, three repetitions are a good guideline.

[0192] Instead of generating new data for each new preamble, the data is repeated. If the intervals between the preambles are known, it is sufficient to calculate the positions of all other preambles once one is correctly detected. Otherwise, the MRC requires at least two preambles of the same data to be detected.

[0193] In contrast to the fifth detailed embodiment, each frame again consists of only a preamble and the associated data, as in Fig. 9 shown.

[0194] In detail, it shows Fig. 9 The diagram shows a repeating arrangement of a reference signal 130 and data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140, wherein the reference signal 130 is always positioned temporally before the data 120. The ordinate describes the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0195] As in Fig. 9 As shown, the reference signal 130 can be a preamble. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one go. The arrangement of the reference signal 130 and the data 120 is repeated in Fig. 9 Three times as an example, whereby the arrangement of the reference signal 130 and the data 120 can be shifted in frequency upon repetition. In Fig. 9The repeating arrangement of reference signal 130 and data 120 is referred to as frame 150_1 to 150_3.

[0196] In other words, Fig. 9 shows the structure of a telegram with three repetitions of frames 150_1 to 150_3.

[0197] In Fig. 9 It turns out that frames 150_1 to 150_3 are transmitted multiple times in a very simple manner. It is not necessary for the repetition to occur on the same frequencies. The time intervals between the frames can also vary. It is also possible to use a different hopping pattern, provided the receiver is aware of it.

[0198] In some implementation examples, the same data can be transmitted multiple times (either on the transmitter side or on the waveform side).

[0199] In some implementation examples, the decoder (either on the receiver side or on the decoder side) can combine the information from all received repetitions into a single telegram. Thirteenth detailed example

[0200] Fig. 10 Figure 1 shows a diagram depicting the arrangement of the reference signal 130 relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140. The reference signal 130 is positioned temporally before the data 120, and further data 152 are transmitted together with the reference signal 130. The ordinate represents the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0201] As in Fig. 10 As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted before the data 120 (in data packets 142 and 144). Further data 152 can be appended to the preamble.

[0202] In other words, Fig. 10shows the structure of a telegram consisting of a core sequence (preamble 130 and further data 152) and an extension sequence (data with telegram splitting).

[0203] As in Fig. 10 As can be seen, the preamble 130 can be extended by a data field 152, or the data can be included in the preamble itself. This data field, together with the preamble, forms a so-called core package or core sequence.

[0204] For example, if there is very little data available for transmission, it is not necessarily required to create and transmit split hops when the amount of data is very small.

[0205] Since the core data is highly susceptible to interference when appended to the preamble, the information should be protected by repetition. It would therefore also be possible to repeat only the information within the core packet, as the data already possesses improved interference resistance through Telegram splitting.

[0206] If data hops 142 and 144 are added after the core package, these are referred to as an extension package or extension sequence.

[0207] In exemplary embodiments, user data unknown to the receiver can be appended (before, during or after preamble 130) on the transmitter or waveform side.

[0208] In some implementation examples, the decoder (either on the receiver or decoder side) can extract the transmitted information from two different areas. This decoding can be performed in separate steps or simultaneously. Fourteenth detailed example

[0209] Fig. 11Figure 1 shows a diagram depicting the arrangement of the reference signal 130 relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time jump pattern 140. The reference signal 130 is positioned temporally before the data 120, and further data 152 are transmitted together with the reference signal 130. The ordinate represents the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0210] As in Fig. 11 As shown, the reference signal can be a preamble 130. The preamble 130 can be transmitted in one piece. The preamble 130 can be transmitted before the data 120 (in data packets 142 and 144). Further data 152 can be appended to the preamble. This further data 152 can contain information regarding the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern.

[0211] In other words, Fig. 10 or Fig. 11shows the structure of a telegram consisting of a core sequence (preamble 130 and header 152) and an extension sequence (data with telegram splitting).

[0212] Instead of pure payload data as per preamble 130, part or all of the information in the core package can also be used to define further transmission parameters of the extension.

[0213] This allows, for example, the data rate, the hopping pattern (time and frequency), the hop lengths, or the frequency band used to be signaled.

[0214] The advantage of the signaling method used with the following extension is that the timing and pattern can be freely configured. This allows a random hopping pattern to be selected for each transmission, significantly increasing transmission reliability. If the sender has information about other transmissions or interference, it can adjust the pattern to prevent any overlap.

[0215] If a base station needs to respond to two sensor nodes simultaneously, this is possible with different hopping patterns without complete interference. Furthermore, the base station can combine transmissions to multiple participants, thus performing carrier aggregation (CA).

[0216] In exemplary embodiments, (on the transmitter side or waveform side) unknown user data can be provided to the receiver after the preamble, which can be (partially) used for signaling.

[0217] In some implementation examples, the decoder (either on the receiver or decoder side) can extract the transmitted information from two different areas. In this process, (partially) the information from the core is used to generate the jump patterns, hop lengths, etc., of the extension sequence.

[0218] Although the above embodiments assume that the reference signal is a preamble, the invention is not limited to such embodiments. Rather, the reference signal can also be a beacon, in which case the above embodiments apply analogously. Fifteenth detailed example

[0219] Instead of signaling the extension within the core, it is also possible to signal the position of other core sequences. Each core sequence possesses different information for this purpose, allowing conclusions to be drawn about any other core sequence, as described in Fig. 12 shown.

[0220] Fig. 12 Figure 1 shows a diagram depicting an arrangement of three reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 relative to the data 120, which are transmitted using a frequency and time-jump pattern 140. The reference signals 130_1 to 130_3 are positioned temporally between the data 120 such that their transmission is not superimposed on the data transmission. Each reference signal 130_1 to 130_3 is transmitted together with further data 152_1 to 152_3. The ordinate represents the frequency and the abscissa the time.

[0221] As in Fig. 12As shown, the reference signals can be preambles 130_1 to 130_3. Preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can each be transmitted in their entirety. Preambles 130_1 to 130_3 can be sent between data 120 in such a way that they are not superimposed on other data. Additional data 152_1 to 152_3 can be appended to each preamble 130_1 to 130_3. This additional data 152_1 to 152_3 can contain information regarding the other preambles 130_1 to 130_3 and / or further data 152_1 to 152_3 and / or information about data 142 and 146.

[0222] In other words, Fig. 12 shows the structure of a telegram consisting of a core sequence (preamble and header) and an extension sequence (data with telegram splitting), where the position of the preambles is indicated in the header.

[0223] For example, three core sequences can be used per telegram. Thus, the first core sequence can contain information about the second and third core sequences, relative to itself. The same applies analogously to the other two core sequences.

[0224] This method offers the significant advantage that the intervals between the preambles / core sequences do not need to be the same across all telegrams. If multiple participants transmit telegrams simultaneously that use the same jump pattern for the individual core sequences, total overlaps frequently occur. If the jump patterns of the core sequences in the telegrams are randomly distributed, the probability of a total overlap decreases dramatically. This allows for a much larger number of telegrams to be processed.

[0225] In exemplary embodiments, (on the transmitter side or waveform side) unknown user data can be provided to the receiver after the preamble, which is (partially) used for signaling.

[0226] In some implementation examples, the decoder (either on the receiver or decoder side) can extract the transmitted information from two different areas. Here, the information (partially) from the core is used to generate the jump patterns, hop lengths, etc., of the extension sequence. Further examples of implementation

[0227] Fig. 13 Figure 200 shows a flowchart of a method 200 for transmitting data, according to an exemplary embodiment. The method 200 comprises a step 202 of transmitting data using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern synchronized to a reference signal.

[0228] Fig. 14Figure 210 shows a flowchart of a method 210 for receiving data. The method 210 comprises a step 212 of receiving data using a frequency-hopping pattern and / or time-hopping pattern synchronized to a reference signal.

[0229] In exemplary implementations, an easy-to-delect preamble and the telegram splitting method are combined.

[0230] In exemplary implementations, several easily detectable preambles are combined.

[0231] In exemplary implementations, signaling information or user data is incorporated into the easily detectable preamble.

[0232] The examples provided create a system for transmitting data from many sensor nodes to a base station. However, the concepts described here can be used for any transmission, provided the channel is not coordinated (ALOHA or Slotted-ALOHA access methods) and the receiver therefore does not know when a packet is being transmitted. Additionally, this can lead to interference with other participants, causing disruptions during transmission.

[0233] The radio transmission band used may, but does not necessarily have to, be reserved exclusively for this transmission. The frequency resource can be shared with many other systems, which makes reliable information transmission more difficult.

[0234] The implementation examples demonstrate techniques that allow classic receivers to be extended with telegram splitting without requiring more complex telegram detection. Various combinations of data rate, modulation method, and preamble and data lengths can be applied. Additionally, a telegram can be divided into a core and an extension sequence, with the core sequence potentially used for signaling. If more than one preamble is transmitted, the system's performance can be further improved compared to known algorithms through clever combinations.

[0235] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, it is understood that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding process, such that a block or component of a device can also be understood as a corresponding process step or as a feature of a process step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with or as a process step also constitute a description of a corresponding block, detail, or feature of a corresponding device. Some or all of the process steps can be performed by (or using) a hardware apparatus, such as a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, some or more of the key process steps can be performed by such an apparatus.

[0236] Depending on specific implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention can be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation can be carried out using a digital storage medium, for example, a floppy disk, DVD, Blu-ray disc, CD, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, FLASH memory, hard disk, or other magnetic or optical storage medium, on which electronically readable control signals are stored. These control signals can interact with, or interact with, a programmable computer system in such a way as to execute the respective method. Therefore, the digital storage medium can be computer-readable.

[0237] Some embodiments according to the invention therefore include a data carrier which has electronically readable control signals which are able to interact with a programmable computer system in such a way that one of the methods described herein is carried out.

[0238] In general, embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as a computer program product with a program code, wherein the program code is effective in carrying out one of the methods when the computer program product runs on a computer.

[0239] The program code can also be stored on a machine-readable medium, for example.

[0240] Other embodiments include the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein, wherein the computer program is stored on a machine-readable medium.

[0241] In other words, an embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a computer program that includes program code for carrying out one of the methods described herein when the computer program runs on a computer.

[0242] Another embodiment of the methods according to the invention is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer-readable medium) on which the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein is recorded. The data carrier, the digital storage medium, or the computer-readable medium is typically tangible and / or non-perishable or non-temporary.

[0243] Another embodiment of the method according to the invention is thus a data stream or a sequence of signals that represents the computer program for carrying out one of the methods described herein. The data stream or sequence of signals can be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, such as the Internet.

[0244] Another embodiment comprises a processing device, for example a computer or a programmable logic device, configured or adapted to perform one of the methods described herein.

[0245] Another embodiment comprises a computer on which the computer program for performing one of the procedures described herein is installed.

[0246] Another embodiment of the invention comprises a device or system designed to transmit a computer program for carrying out at least one of the methods described herein to a receiver. The transmission can be, for example, electronic or optical. The receiver can be, for example, a computer, a mobile device, a storage device, or a similar device. The device or system can, for example, include a file server for transmitting the computer program to the receiver.

[0247] In some embodiments, a programmable logic device (for example, a field-programmable gate array, an FPGA) can be used to perform some or all of the functionalities of the methods described herein. In some embodiments, a field-programmable gate array can interact with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. Generally, in some embodiments, the methods are performed by any hardware device. This can be general-purpose hardware such as a computer processor (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU), or method-specific hardware such as an ASIC.

[0248] The devices described herein can be implemented, for example, using a hardware apparatus, or using a computer, or using a combination of a hardware apparatus and a computer.

[0249] The devices described herein, or any components of the devices described herein, may be implemented at least partially in hardware and / or in software (computer program).

[0250] The methods described herein can be implemented, for example, using a hardware apparatus, or using a computer, or using a combination of a hardware apparatus and a computer.

[0251] The methods described herein, or any components thereof, may be executed at least partially by hardware and / or by software.

[0252] The embodiments described above merely illustrate the principles of the present invention. It is understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be obvious to other people skilled in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of protection set forth in the following claims and not by the specific details presented herein by way of description and explanation of the embodiments.

Claims

1. Data transmitter (100) configured to send out data (120) in a manner that is time-synchronized with a reference signal (130) while using a frequency hopping pattern (140) and / or time hopping pattern (140); wherein the data transmitter (100) is configured to send out the reference signal (130) itself; wherein the reference signal (130) includes at least two preambles (130_1:130_3), wherein a first preamble (130_1) of the at least two preambles (130_1:130_3) is transmitted en bloc at one frequency; wherein data transmitter (100) is configured to send out the first preamble (130_1) such that same will be suitable, on the receiver side, for complete detection; wherein the data (120) comprises at least two data packets (142;144), the data transmitter (100) being configured to send out the at least two data packets (142;144) in accordance with the frequency hopping pattern (140) and time hopping pattern (140); wherein the data (120) is a telegram, the data transmitter (100) being configured to split up the telegram into the at least two data packets (142;144), each of said at least two data packets (142;144) being shorter than the telegram; wherein the data transmitter (100) is configured to split up a second preamble (130_2) of the at least two preambles (130_1:130_3) into at least two partial preambles / partial preambles and to send out the at least two partial preambles in a manner that is spaced apart in time and / or frequency; wherein the data transmitter (100) is configured to provide the at least two data packets (142;144) with the at least two partial preambles, wherein each of the at least two partial preambles is shorter than the first preamble (130_1).

2. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in claim 1, the data transmitter (100) being configured to transmit further data en bloc along with the first preamble (130_1).

3. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, wherein the data (120) contains preamble symbols.

4. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, the data transmitter (100) further being configured to send out the data (120) in a manner that is frequency-synchronized with the reference signal (130) while using the frequency hopping pattern (140) and / or time hopping pattern (140).

5. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, the data transmitter (100) being configured to send out the first preamble (130_1) before the data (120).

6. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, the data transmitter (100) being configured to send out the first preamble (130_1) at a data rate lower than that used for the data (120).

7. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, the data transmitter (100) being configured to send out the first preamble (130_1) with a modulation type or a modulation method different than those used for the data (120).

8. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of the previous claims, the data transmitter (100) being configured to transmit further data (152) along with the first preamble (130_1).

9. Data transmitter (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least a portion of the further data (152) transmitted with the first preamble (130_1) contains information regarding the frequency hopping pattern (140) and time hopping pattern (140) of the data (120).

10. Data receiver (110) configured to receive data (120), or extract it from a buffer, while using a frequency hopping pattern (140) and time hopping pattern (140) in a manner that is time-synchronized with a reference signal (130); wherein the reference signal (130) includes at least two preambles (130_1:130_3), wherein the first preamble (130_1) of the at least two preambles (130_1:103_3) is transmitted en bloc at one frequency, wherein the data (120) includes at least two data packets (142;144), the data receiver (110) being configured to receive the at least two data packets (142;144), or extract them from the buffer, in accordance with the frequency hopping pattern (140) and time hopping pattern (140), wherein the data (120) is a telegram split up into the at least two data packets (142;144), each of the at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; wherein the data receiver (110) is configured to combine the at least two data packets (142;144) to obtain the telegram; wherein a second preamble of the at least two preambles (130_1:130_3) is split up into at least two partial preambles and the at least two partial preambles are transmitted in a manner that is spaced apart in time and / or frequency, wherein the at least two data packets (142;144) are provided with the at least two partial preambles, wherein each of the at least two partial preambles is shorter than the first preamble (130_1).

11. Data receiver (110) as claimed in claim 10, the data receiver (110) further being configured to receive the data (120), or extract it from the buffer, while using the frequency hopping pattern (140) and time hopping pattern (140) in a manner that is frequency-synchronized with the reference signal (130).

12. Data receiver (110) as claimed in any of claims 10 to 11, wherein the first preamble (130_1) is received or extracted from the buffer along with further data (152).

13. Data receiver (110) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the further data (152) that is received or extracted from the buffer along with the first preamble (130_1) contains information regarding the frequency hopping pattern (140) and / or time hopping pattern (140); the data receiver (110) being configured to receive the data (120), or to extract it from the buffer, while using the information regarding the frequency hopping pattern (140) and / or time hopping pattern (140).

14. System comprising: a data transmitter (100) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9; and a data receiver (110) as claimed in any of claims 10 to 13.

15. Method (200) of sending data, comprising: sending a reference signal; sending (202) data while using a frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern in a manner that is time-synchronized with a reference signal; wherein the reference signal includes at least two preambles, wherein a first preamble of the at least two preambles is transmitted en bloc at one frequency; wherein the first preamble is sent out such that same will be suitable, on the receiver side, for complete detection; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein, while sending (202), the at least two data packets are sent out in accordance with the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hop-ping pattern; wherein the data is a telegram, the telegram being split up into the at least two data packets, each of said at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; wherein the second preamble of the at least two preambles is split up into at least two partial preambles and the at least two partial preambles are sent out in a manner that is spaced apart in time and / or frequency; wherein the at least two data packets are provided with the at least two partial preambles, wherein each of the at least two partial preambles is shorter than the first preamble.

16. Method (210) of receiving data, comprising: receiving (212) data while using a frequency hopping pattern and / or time hopping pattern in a manner that is time-synchronized with a reference signal; wherein the reference signal (130) includes at least two preambles, wherein a first preamble of the at least two preambles is transmitted en bloc at one frequency; wherein the data comprises at least two data packets, wherein, while receiving (212), the at least two data packets are received or extracted in accordance with the frequency hopping pattern and / or time hop-ping pattern; wherein the data is a telegram, the telegram being split up into the at least two data packets, each of said at least two data packets being shorter than the telegram; combining the at least two data packets to obtain the telegram; wherein a second preamble of the at least two preambles is split up into at least two partial preambles, and the at least two partial preambles are transmitted in a manner that is spaced apart in time and / or frequency; wherein the at least two data packets are provided with the at least two partial preambles, wherein each of the at least two partial preambles is shorter than the first preamble.

17. Computer program for performing the method as claimed in any of claims 15 to 16, when running on a computer or a microprocessor.