Millimeter-Wave Node Duplex Mode Switching via Self-Interference Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently switching between full duplex and half duplex modes in millimeter-wave nodes, particularly due to self-interference issues that affect performance and resource utilization.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for dynamically switching between full duplex and half duplex modes in wireless nodes by measuring self-interference for transmitter-receiver beam pairs and selecting suitable beam pairs and duplex modes based on performance metrics such as rate and latency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If full duplex mode is used in millimeter-wave nodes, then communication rate and spectral efficiency are improved, but self-interference increases and degrades signal quality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication rateVSAvoidself-interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic duplex mode selection that adapts between full duplex and half duplex operations based on real-time self-interference measurements and channel conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the duplex mode for different beam pairs and time periods, allowing full duplex when interference is low and switching to half duplex when interference exceeds thresholds, thereby optimizing communication rate while controlling self-interference degradation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by measuring self-interference metrics (such as SINR) and adjusting duplex mode selection based on these measurements. The patent modifies system behavior by transitioning between different duplex operating states (full duplex vs. half duplex) according to measured interference levels, effectively using parameter changes to balance communication performance against self-interference effects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If full duplex mode is used in millimeter-wave nodes, then spectral efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to self-interference management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral efficiencyVSAvoidself-interference management
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system measures self-interference levels for different beam pairs and uses these measurements to determine appropriate duplex modes. The measurement results feed into a decision process that selects full duplex or half duplex operation, creating a closed-loop system that automatically adapts to interference conditions without requiring complex manual configuration or intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-assessment by measuring its own self-interference characteristics and making autonomous decisions about duplex mode selection. The millimeter-wave node independently evaluates its interference environment and determines the optimal operating mode without external control, effectively serving itself to manage the complexity of full duplex operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If beam pairs are selected for full duplex operation, then communication performance is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase to accurately assess self-interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication performanceVSAvoidself-interference measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary self-interference measurements during beam training and beam management phases before actual data transmission begins. By measuring interference characteristics in advance during these preliminary phases, the system gathers necessary information about self-interference levels for different beam pairs, which then informs the selection of duplex modes for subsequent communication operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4046441B1Switching between full duplex and half duplex in millimeter-wave nodes
Publication Date: 2025.03.19 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP4046441B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4046441B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2B
  • EP4046441B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Systems, apparatuses, and methods for switching between full duplex and half duplex in wireless nodes. A wireless node may measure self-interference for one or more transmitter-receiver beam pairs. Based on the self-interference measurements, the wireless node may communicate on a beam pair in full duplex or half duplex. A duplex mode may be determined based on self-interference, as well as, optionally with other metrics such as rate and latency. A wireless node may switch between full duplex and half duplex based on the duplex mode determination. In addition, suitable beam pairs may be selected, along with associated duplex modes.