Movable Network Nodes for Dynamic Coverage Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in providing continuous coverage to terminal devices that move out of the network's coverage area, particularly in areas with sparse population or dynamic user distributions, leading to inefficient deployment of base stations and potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first network node obtains information about a terminal device's location out of network coverage and transmits an indication to second network nodes to move to specific deployment points, providing relay services and extending coverage, using intelligent movable devices like drones or robots equipped with Edge Computing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If base stations are deployed in densely populated areas, then network coverage and service quality are improved, but infrastructure cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs movable network nodes (drones, robots, vehicles) that can dynamically relocate to provide coverage where needed, transforming the static infrastructure into a dynamic system that adapts to changing coverage requirements without permanent deployment in all areas
Solution Approach 2:
The movable network nodes serve multiple functions: they can be deployed to extend coverage to terminal devices out of coverage areas, provide relay services, and potentially serve multiple locations over time, replacing the need for dedicated fixed infrastructure in each specific area
2Reliability
If movable network nodes are deployed to extend coverage, then network coverage and service continuity are improved, but system complexity and operational cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movable network nodes are equipped with autonomous navigation and deployment capabilities, allowing them to self-position to provide coverage without requiring complex manual deployment systems, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining service continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coordination mechanism between the first network node and movable network nodes that simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing control logic, reducing the complexity burden on individual components
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed base stations are built in advance, then network coverage is established, but adaptability to changing user distribution and terminal movement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed base stations to dynamic movable network nodes that can relocate in response to changing terminal device positions and coverage requirements, enabling the network to adapt flexibly to varying user distributions
Solution Approach 2:
The movable network nodes can be pre-positioned or pre-deployed to anticipated coverage gaps or high-demand areas before terminal devices actually need service, ensuring coverage is ready in advance while maintaining the flexibility to relocate if predictions change
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relates to a method, apparatus for enhancing coverage of network. The method performed by a first network node may include: obtaining information about that a terminal device plans to stay at a location out of a coverage of a network; and transmitting at least one indication to at least one second network node, indicating the at least one second network node to move to at least one deployment point, respectively. The at least one second network node may be indicated to provide a relay of a communication between the terminal device at the location and the network. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the coverage of the network may be extended to a location of the terminal device, based on a requirement of the terminal device.