HARQ Feedback Forwarding via Dual Communication Channels
Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile communication systems, uplink data routing often introduces latency due to the involvement of multiple intermediate nodes, making control data outdated by the time it reaches the second network node, especially when different nodes manage uplink and downlink communications.
Innovation Solution
Implementing two physically separate communication channels, where control data is transmitted over a low-latency, low-capacity channel (e.g., GSM or LTE) and other data over a high-capacity channel (e.g., microwave link, optical fiber, or copper connection), allowing for efficient routing of time-critical control data with reduced latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If control data is routed through multiple intermediate nodes using existing routes, then the routing path is established, but the latency increases making control data outdated by the time it arrives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication channels into two distinct types: a first communication channel specifically for control data with low latency requirements, and a second communication channel for other data types. This segmentation allows control data to be routed through a dedicated low-latency path without being constrained by the complexity of existing multi-node routing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new communication channel that acts as an intermediary path for control data between network nodes. This intermediary channel bypasses the complex existing routing infrastructure, providing a direct low-latency connection for time-critical control information while leaving the existing routing complexity intact for other data types.
2Loss of time
If a single communication channel is used for all data transmission, then the channel capacity can handle all traffic, but the latency for control data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication infrastructure into two separate channels: a first channel optimized for control data with low latency characteristics, and a second channel for other data types. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific purpose rather than requiring a single high-capacity channel to handle all traffic types equally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making the first communication channel specifically suited for control data transmission with low latency properties, while the second channel handles other data types. Each channel has differentiated characteristics optimized for its intended data type, rather than using a uniform high-capacity channel for all purposes.
3Reliability
If control data is transmitted over existing routes, then the routing infrastructure is utilized, but the control data becomes outdated due to transmission delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments communication channels into a dedicated first channel for control data and a second channel for other data. This segmentation ensures that control data transmitted on the first channel maintains timeliness and reliability without being affected by the complexity of existing multi-node routing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dedicated first communication channel as an intermediary path for control data that bypasses the complex existing routing infrastructure. This intermediary channel provides a direct, low-latency path that ensures control data reaches its destination timely and reliably without being constrained by existing routing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
It is presented a method performed in a first network node. The method comprises the steps of: receiving an uplink transmission from a mobile communication terminal; determining, based on content of the uplink transmission, information to be transmitted over a first communication channel when the content comprises control data intended for a second network node; transmitting the information over the first communication channel to the second network node when the information is to be transmitted over the first communication channel; and transmitting the information via a second communication channel, the second communication channel being physically separate from the first communication channel, when the information is not to be transmitted over the first communication channel. A corresponding network node is also presented.