Distributed LMR Architecture for Controller Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional and trunking LMR system architectures lack redundancy, leading to single points of failure and compromising system integrity due to the reliance on central network controllers and equipment, which become expensive to maintain and are susceptible to failure.
Innovation Solution
A distributed LMR system architecture that distributes the functionality of the central network controller among subsystem controllers and repeaters at each site, incorporating peer-to-peer communication over an IP network, with subsystem controllers and repeaters having active and standby modes to ensure redundancy and fail-safe operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional LMR system architecture with central network controllers is used, then system control and coordination are simplified, but the system becomes susceptible to single points of failure and requires expensive maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized network controller functionality into distributed subsystem controllers at each LMR site. Each subsystem controller independently manages local radio units and repeaters, eliminating the single point of failure. The segmentation allows the system to be divided into autonomous zones that can operate independently if one site fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local intelligence at each LMR site through subsystem controllers that autonomously handle control decisions locally. Each site has its own voting mechanism and simulcast control capabilities, allowing local quality and reliability without requiring constant central coordination.
2Productivity
If LMR system expands with additional equipment at prime site, then system capacity increases, but maintenance cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent distributes system capacity across multiple independent subsystems at different locations rather than concentrating all equipment at a single prime site. Each subsystem can be independently scaled and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining expansion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal subsystem controllers that can perform multiple functions including simulcast control, voting, and radio unit management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized equipment at each site, simplifying maintenance while maintaining system capacity.
3Ease of operation
If equipment is centralized at one site, then system coordination is simplified, but the system lacks redundancy and is subject to single points of failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coordination function into distributed subsystem controllers that autonomously manage their local sites. Each subsystem controller independently coordinates its local radio units and repeaters, eliminating the need for centralized coordination while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions (simulcast control, voting, radio unit management) into integrated subsystem controllers at each site. This merging creates self-sufficient nodes that maintain redundancy while simplifying operation through unified local control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing communication in a distributed land mobile radio (LMR) system architecture. In some embodiments, the system includes a first controller associated with an LMR site. The first controller may be configured to control communication, via a communication channel, of a plurality of LMRs. In some embodiments, the system further includes a first repeater of a plurality of repeaters associated with the LMR site. The first repeater may include at least an active mode. The first repeater may be in the active mode to initiate a simulcast controller operation using the communication channel of the plurality of repeaters.