D2D Path Switching via Sequencing Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wireless networks face inefficiencies in device-to-device (D2D) communication, particularly in scenarios where direct UE communication is necessary, such as emergency situations or data offloading, due to reliance on core network infrastructure, leading to increased utilization and bandwidth consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method for facilitating path switching between D2D and network paths by receiving switch point information, establishing connections, synchronizing data block sequencing, and forwarding data through the network path, while also handling lost data and signal quality issues to ensure seamless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If all data travels through the core network, then network control and management are simplified, but network utilization increases and bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transmission path from the core network by enabling direct D2D communication between UEs. The direct path is established by having the transmitting UE send data directly to the receiving UE without routing through the core network, thereby reducing network utilization while maintaining simplified network control for non-D2D traffic.
2Loss of energy
If D2D communication is used, then network utilization is reduced and bandwidth consumption decreases, but data loss may occur during path switching and signal quality cannot be guaranteed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the transmitting UE send notification messages to the receiving UE before actual data transmission begins. This allows the receiving UE to prepare for incoming data, establish appropriate reception parameters, and ensure readiness, thereby preventing data loss during the transition to D2D mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where UEs exchange signal quality measurements and transmission status information. The transmitting UE receives feedback about signal conditions from the receiving UE and adjusts transmission parameters accordingly, ensuring reliable data delivery while maintaining reduced bandwidth consumption.
3Productivity
If path switching is implemented, then network utilization is optimized and direct communication is enabled, but data loss and delay increase during switching transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces switching delay by performing preliminary actions: the network sends path switch commands to UEs before actual data transmission begins, and UEs prepare their transmission/reception buffers in advance. This allows the transition from network-routed to direct D2D path to occur with minimal interruption to data flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action during path switching by ensuring that data transmission continues without interruption. The transmitting UE maintains its transmission buffer and continues sending data while the path transitions, and the receiving UE continues receiving and processing data throughout the switch, eliminating gaps that would cause delay.
4Adaptability or versatility
If D2D communication is used for public safety, then communication is possible when cellular infrastructure is unavailable, but network control and monitoring capabilities are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling UEs to autonomously establish and manage D2D communication links without requiring continuous network control. When cellular infrastructure is unavailable, UEs can independently set up direct communication paths, exchange data, and maintain connections without network intervention, thereby providing emergency communication capability while minimizing the need for complex network control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of facilitating path switching, for a communication path between a first user equipment (UE) and a second UE, from a device to device (D2D) path to network path, includes receiving switch point information from the first UE that identifies a data block; establishing, at the access network, a connection with the first UE over an uplink path between the first UE and the access network; establishing, at the access network, a connection with the second UE over a downlink path between the network element and the second UE; setting, at the access network, a data block sequencing numbering to be the same for the uplink path and the downlink path based on the switch point information; and forwarding, at the access network, data from the first UE to the second UE via the network path, the network path including the uplink path and the downlink path.