Parameter Switching in Multi-Link Wireless Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communications systems where wireless terminals support multiple concurrent links, synchronizing parameter changes across different connections is complex due to timing asynchrony between base station sector attachment points and wireless terminals, leading to inefficient and ambiguous parameter switching messages.
Innovation Solution
A method where a base station selects an offset point in time for one link and communicates this information to the wireless terminal, allowing it to determine parameter switching points for all links by considering timing synchronization differences and repetitive timing structures, using a single message to specify parameter switching points for multiple connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless terminal supports multiple concurrent wireless links, then the system provides enhanced communication capability and flexibility, but signaling parameter switching points becomes much more complicated and ambiguous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the parameter switching control by introducing connection-specific timing offset values for each wireless link. Instead of a single global switching point, each connection has its own offset value that accounts for its specific timing characteristics, thereby simplifying the signaling for each individual link while supporting multiple concurrent links.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station pre-calculates and signals the timing offset values for each connection before parameter switching occurs. This preliminary action allows the wireless terminal to determine the correct parameter switching points in advance for each link, eliminating ambiguity and reducing the complexity of real-time switching coordination.
2Ease of operation
If parameter switching points are limited to predetermined points in a recurring timing structure, then signaling is simplified for single connections, but it becomes insufficient and ambiguous for multiple unsynchronized connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing connection-specific timing offset values that are tailored to each individual wireless link's timing characteristics. Each connection receives a customized offset value that accounts for its specific synchronization relationship with the base station, ensuring accurate parameter switching points for each link while maintaining the overall structure of predetermined switching points.
3Reliability
If individual parameter change messages are sent for each wireless connection, then unambiguous switching points can be specified for each link, but air link resources are wasted due to redundant signaling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the parameter switching control for multiple connections by signaling a single timing offset value that applies to all connections sharing the same parameter. This consolidation reduces the number of separate signaling messages required, conserving air link resources while maintaining unambiguous switching point identification for each connection through the connection-specific offset values.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing offset value mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it identifies parameter switching points, accounts for timing synchronization differences between connections, and reduces signaling overhead. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated messages for each connection, efficiently utilizing air link resources.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for indicating parameter change points with respect to multiple connections (wireless links) by transmitting a single message, e.g., over one of the connections, is described. A base station corresponding to at least one connection, considers the approximate timing relationship between the connections, selects one of the connections, selects an intended parameter switching point for that connection, determines a symbol time offset from the selected switching point such that the other intended switching points of other wireless links can be unambiguously interpreted by the wireless terminal from information indicating the offset with respect to the selected link, and communicates information indicating the offset and the wireless link to which said offset applies. A wireless terminal receives the information, identifies a time referenced with respect the timing structure of the identified wireless link and then determines individual parameter switching points for the other wireless links.