LTE Mesh Node Role Reversal for Asymmetric Backhaul
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless protocols for mesh networks with shared backhaul connections lack efficiency in managing asymmetric uplink and downlink speeds, limiting the flexibility and performance of LTE-based backhaul systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a role reversal technique in mesh network nodes between base station and user equipment roles, allowing nodes to dynamically switch between roles based on traffic conditions to optimize uplink and downlink speeds, and using LTE connections to prioritize bandwidth accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mesh base stations use fixed wireless protocols for backhaul connections, then network stability is maintained, but uplink and downlink speed efficiency deteriorates due to asymmetric traffic demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic role reversal between base station and user equipment at mesh base stations, allowing the system to adapt bandwidth allocation based on real-time traffic conditions. This dynamic switching enables efficient handling of asymmetric uplink and downlink speeds by reversing roles when traffic patterns change, directly resolving the contradiction between maintaining stability and improving adaptability.
2Productivity
If mesh base stations use traditional wireless protocols, then protocol compatibility is maintained, but resource usage efficiency deteriorates due to inability to optimize for asymmetric traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables mesh base stations to perform multiple functions by implementing both base station and user equipment roles within the same hardware platform. This multi-functionality allows a single device to operate in different protocol modes depending on traffic requirements, improving resource usage efficiency while managing complexity through role-based functionality rather than separate physical devices.
3Productivity
If fixed role assignments are used in mesh networks, then system simplicity is maintained, but tunneling costs increase due to suboptimal bandwidth allocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies role reversal by inverting the traditional base station and user equipment roles under certain conditions. When downlink traffic exceeds uplink traffic, the system reverses the roles to optimize bandwidth allocation, thereby reducing tunneling costs. This inversion mechanism directly addresses the contradiction by allowing bandwidth optimization while managing complexity through conditional role switching based on traffic patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for enabling a mesh network node to switch from a base station role to a user equipment role relative to a second mesh network node, and vice versa. By switching roles in this manner, the mesh network node may be able to benefit from increased uplink or downlink speed in the new role. This role reversal technique is particularly useful when using wireless protocols such as LTE that are asymmetric and allow differing throughput on uplink and downlink connections. Methods for determining whether to perform role reversal are disclosed, and methods for using role reversal in mesh networks comprising greater than two nodes are also disclosed.