LRLS Handover Management Using SNR and MCS Metrics
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Long-Range Land-to-Sea (LRLS) wireless networks, existing systems face challenges in maintaining stable communication links due to mobility issues, interference, and deep fading, leading to suboptimal throughput and frequent switching between Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) and LRLS networks, resulting in unpredictable channel quality and poor Quality of Experience (QoE).
Innovation Solution
A method and system for performing Handover (HO) in LRLS networks that involves receiving configuration parameters, retrieving Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) throughput values for active and adjacent Antenna Arrays (AAs), determining a target AA based on these values, and initiating inter-AA HO or inter-network HO to maintain optimal signal link strength and minimize network flapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the CPE scans every non-active AA for determining a new active AA, then the tracking accuracy is improved, but the time consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the AA scanning process into two distinct modes: fast acquisition mode that scans only immediate neighbor AAs for quick handover decisions, and slow acquisition mode that scans all non-active AAs for comprehensive tracking. This segmentation allows the system to balance between tracking accuracy and time consumption by selecting the appropriate mode based on current operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by scanning only a subset of AAs (immediate neighbors) in fast acquisition mode when quick handover is needed, rather than scanning all non-active AAs. This partial scanning approach reduces time consumption while still achieving sufficient tracking accuracy for handover decisions.
2Reliability
If electro-mechanical means are used to move and aim the CPE antenna, then the link establishment capability is improved, but the device weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electro-mechanical antenna steering with signal processing techniques (Long Range Directional Wake up Radios and beam steering). The CPE uses digital signal processing to electronically steer beams and track the BTS direction without physical antenna movement, eliminating motors and stabilizing platforms while maintaining link establishment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces signal processing algorithms as an intermediary between the CPE and BTS communication. Instead of directly moving the antenna to track BTS, the system uses beam steering and spatial filtering techniques to electronically direct the communication link, achieving tracking without mechanical intervention.
3Reliability
If the CPE switches data-path between LRLS and VSAT networks frequently, then the service continuity is maintained, but the Quality of Experience deteriorates due to flapping effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary evaluation of candidate AAs by assessing their signal quality metrics before initiating handover. By pre-evaluating potential target AAs and their ability to maintain service continuity, the system avoids premature switching to alternative networks, thereby reducing flapping between LRLS and VSAT while maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors signal quality metrics (SNR, throughput) and uses this information to make informed handover decisions. The system feedback loop prevents unnecessary switching by comparing current link quality with historical data and threshold criteria, thereby reducing flapping effect while maintaining service continuity when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method and system for performing Handover (HO) in a Long-Range Land-To-Sea (LRLS) wireless network. The Customer-Premises Equipment (CPE) comprises an Antenna Array (AA). The HO management system scans one or more inactive AAs of CPE based on configuration parameters. Further, one of Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) throughput values are retrieved on uplink and downlink. Thereafter, one of SNR and MCS throughput values on uplink and downlink are processed for determining a target AA. Further, system performs inter-network HO to Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) network when cell edge is detected on target AA or inter-AA HO to target AA otherwise. Lastly, a network re-entry is initiated to target AA from the VSAT when network re-entry is detected on target AA based on processing one of the SNR or the MCS throughput values in uplink and downlink.