Group Call Communication via Dynamic Uplink Eavesdropping

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Solution Overview

Problem

In repeater-enabled communication systems, target radios outside the repeater coverage area but within the originator's range often miss group calls due to irregular indoor coverage and range limitations, leading to reduced communication quality.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method where target radios eavesdrop on the uplink communication between the originator and the repeater, allowing them to receive calls directly from the originator when the received signal strength is above a threshold, and switching to the repeater downlink channel when it is not, thereby expanding the overall coverage area.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If group calls are transmitted through the repeater, then coverage area is improved, but target radios outside repeater coverage area miss the calls

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidcall reception reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic call reception mode selection where target radios automatically switch between repeater downlink mode and direct uplink eavesdropping mode based on real-time signal conditions. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain reliable call reception across varying coverage areas, resolving the contradiction between extended coverage and reception reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where target radios eavesdrop on the uplink communication between originator and repeater. This intermediary approach allows calls to be received through multiple paths (direct repeater downlink or eavesdropping on uplink), ensuring reliability even when outside traditional repeater coverage area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If target radios always receive calls via repeater downlink, then system simplicity is maintained, but coverage area is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidcoverage area
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables target radios to perform self-service by autonomously determining whether to receive calls via repeater downlink or by eavesdropping on uplink communication. Each radio independently assesses signal conditions and selects the appropriate reception mode without requiring complex centralized control, thus maintaining system simplicity while expanding effective coverage area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts reception modes based on real-time signal strength measurements. Target radios monitor RSSI values and automatically switch between reception methods, allowing the coverage area to expand beyond the repeater's downlink range while keeping the control mechanism relatively simple through decentralized decision-making.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Area of stationary object

If target radios eavesdrop on uplink communication, then coverage area is expanded, but signal strength requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidsignal strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching where target radios compare signal strength thresholds to determine the optimal reception method. When direct uplink signal strength exceeds a threshold, the radio switches to eavesdropping mode to extend coverage; otherwise, it uses repeater downlink. This dynamic approach balances coverage expansion with signal strength requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by allowing target radios to use eavesdropping on uplink communication only when signal conditions permit (RSSI above threshold). This partial utilization of the eavesdropping mechanism extends coverage in favorable conditions while maintaining reliability through repeater downlink in weaker signal conditions, thus managing power requirements effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS8432880B2Method for group call communication
Publication Date: 2013.04.30 MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC
  • US8432880B2 patent drawing
  • US8432880B2 patent drawing
  • US8432880B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for communicating a group call within a communication network comprising at least one repeater and a plurality of communication devices includes: receiving at least one preamble slot and at least one synchronization slot from an originator communication device by the repeater and a communication device; operating the communication device to receive one or more calls directly from the originator device via eavesdropping on the repeater uplink channel when a received signal strength indication (RSSI) of the direct preamble and synchronization slots is greater than a threshold; and operating the communication device to receive one or more calls from the originator device via the repeater on a repeater downlink channel of the repeater when the direct RSSI is not greater than the threshold.