D2D to B2D Connection Switching in Wireless Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an efficient method to switch between device-to-device (D2D) and base station-to-device (B2D) connections in wireless communication systems, particularly to manage the transition between these connections when a user equipment (UE) is in a radio resource control (RRC) connected or idle state, to optimize communication reliability and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for switching between D2D and B2D connections by receiving and transmitting specific messages, such as B2D switch request and response messages, which include information like target devices, EPS bearer identities, RLC configurations, and logical channel identities, to control the release and establishment of connections, allowing seamless transitions between D2D and B2D modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If D2D connection is used for direct device communication, then power consumption is reduced and throughput is enhanced, but connection reliability and network control capability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic connection switching between D2D and B2D modes based on real-time network conditions, device states, and service requirements. The network controller dynamically determines when to switch connections, adjusting the communication mode from direct D2D to network-mediated B2D to maintain reliability while preserving D2D efficiency when appropriate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The network controller acts as an intermediary that manages and coordinates D2D connections. It provides oversight and control capabilities by receiving connection establishment requests, determining switching decisions, and managing the transition between D2D and B2D modes, thereby ensuring network control and connection reliability while allowing D2D operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If D2D connection is established for direct communication, then communication efficiency is improved, but device complexity and switching control difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoidswitching control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network controller serves as a central intermediary that manages the complexity of D2D connection switching. It receives switching requests from user equipment, determines appropriate switching decisions based on network conditions, and coordinates the switching process, thereby reducing the control burden on individual devices while maintaining efficient D2D communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the network controller receives status information from user equipment regarding D2D connection states, channel conditions, and service requirements. Based on this feedback, the controller makes informed switching decisions between D2D and B2D modes, optimizing communication efficiency while managing switching complexity through data-driven control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If seamless service is provided across different locations and mobility states, then service availability is improved, but network control and connection management become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice availabilityVSAvoidconnection management ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic connection management that adapts to user equipment mobility states and location changes. The network controller continuously monitors device states and automatically adjusts connection modes between D2D and B2D based on current conditions, ensuring seamless service availability while the system handles the operational complexity of managing diverse connection states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9655165B2Method and apparatus for switching connection in wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US9655165B2 patent drawing
  • US9655165B2 patent drawing
  • US9655165B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for switching connection in a wireless communication system is provided. A device receives a base station-to-device (B2D) switch request message or an unsolicited B2D switch response message from a base station. The B2D switch request message or the unsolicited B2D switch response message include information on at least one of a target device, a switch unit, target D2D connection/link identifier(s), an enhanced packet system (EPS) bearer identity, a data radio bearer (DRB) identity, a radio link control (RLC) configuration, a logical channel identity, and when to switch from a device-to-device (D2D) connection to a B2D connection.