Long Range Extension Mode Triggering for MTC Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular communications networks face challenges in supporting cost-effective, spectrum-efficient, and energy-efficient Machine-Type Communication (MTC) devices due to their unique requirements, such as low data rates and high latency tolerance, which are not adequately met by existing LTE technologies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a long range extension mode in wireless devices, triggered by nodes in the network when communication difficulties are detected, utilizing mechanisms like increased transmit power, modified repetition schemes, and dedicated radio resources to maintain connectivity beyond typical propagation limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If long range extension mechanisms are activated for all MTC devices, then coverage is extended, but energy consumption and system resources are wasted for devices without propagation loss issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring MTC devices to operate in different modes (normal mode vs. long range extension mode) based on their specific propagation conditions. Devices experiencing high propagation loss are selectively configured to use long range extension mechanisms, while devices with good signal conditions continue using normal operation, thereby avoiding unnecessary energy consumption for devices that don't need extended coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting transmission parameters (such as repetition factors, transmit power, and resource allocation) based on the device's propagation loss characteristics. The network node determines whether a device experiences high propagation loss and configures appropriate parameters accordingly, enabling coverage extension only when necessary and optimizing energy efficiency.
2Area of stationary object
If long range extension mechanisms are used, then coverage is extended, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by providing different operational configurations to different devices based on their propagation conditions. Only devices experiencing high propagation loss are configured with long range extension parameters, while other devices continue using standard LTE MTC configurations, thereby minimizing the complexity burden on the overall system and individual devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing MTC devices into two groups: those requiring long range extension capabilities and those operating in normal conditions. The network node performs segmentation based on propagation loss determination and applies appropriate configuration schemes to each group, reducing the overall system complexity by not universally implementing complex long range mechanisms.
3Use of energy by moving object
If selective triggering of long range extension mode is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but network complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling MTC devices to autonomously determine their own propagation loss conditions and self-configure their operational mode. Devices measure their signal conditions, determine whether they experience high propagation loss, and automatically configure themselves to use long range extension mechanisms only when necessary, thereby reducing network signaling overhead and complexity while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes feedback mechanisms where devices report their propagation loss conditions or signal quality measurements to the network node. Based on this feedback, the network node determines whether to configure devices for long range extension mode. This feedback-driven approach enables selective triggering of extended coverage mechanisms, optimizing energy efficiency while managing network complexity through intelligent decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for triggering a long range extension mode of operation for a wireless device in a cellular communications network. In one preferred embodiment, the wireless device is a Machine Type Communication (MTC) device. In one embodiment, a node in the cellular communications network determines that the wireless device is to operate in the long range extension mode if there is difficulty in establishing communication between the wireless device and the cellular communications network. If the wireless device is to operate in the long range extension mode, the node activates one or more long range extension mechanisms with respect to the wireless device such that the wireless device operates in the long range extension mode. In this manner, the long range extension mode is selectively triggered for the wireless device.