Multi-Hop Link Path Selection Using Composite Quality Metrics
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-hop communication systems, existing methods for selecting between direct and relayed transmission paths fail to account for channel capacity losses, leading to inefficient routing decisions based solely on signal strength, resulting in suboptimal link quality and capacity utilization.
Innovation Solution
An efficient routing algorithm that determines link quality metrics such as data rate, modulation-coding rate, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for both direct and relayed paths, enabling informed decisions on path selection to maximize link capacity and system performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a subscriber station selects a relayed transmission path based solely on RSSI strength, then the received signal strength is improved, but the channel capacity is reduced due to the additional base station to relay station link
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the routing decision parameter from simple RSSI strength to a composite metric that incorporates both signal strength and channel capacity considerations. The base station calculates a routing metric that balances the benefit of improved signal strength through relayed paths against the cost of reduced channel capacity, enabling optimized path selection that accounts for both parameters simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station receives RSSI measurements from subscriber stations and then calculates optimal routing decisions based on both the reported signal strength and the current channel capacity state. The base station feeds back routing commands to subscriber stations, creating a closed-loop system that continuously optimizes the balance between signal strength and capacity utilization
2Loss of energy
If a direct base station to subscriber station path is used, then the channel capacity is maintained, but the received signal strength may be insufficient in certain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection where the routing decision is not fixed but adapts based on current channel conditions. The base station continuously evaluates both direct and relayed path options, adjusting the selected path in real-time based on varying signal strength requirements and capacity constraints, allowing the system to switch between direct and relayed modes as conditions change
3Illumination intensity
If relay stations are activated to improve coverage, then the received signal strength is enhanced, but the system complexity increases due to additional routing decisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex routing decision-making function from the subscriber station and concentrates it at the base station. The subscriber station simply reports RSSI measurements, while the base station performs the complex calculation of comparing direct and relayed paths, determining optimal routing metrics, and making final routing decisions. This centralization simplifies the overall system architecture despite the increased computational requirements at the base station
Data Source
AI summary
A determination of link quality (CSR) is made from the subscriber station to a relay station. A determination of link quality (CRB) is made from the relay station to the base station, and a determination of link quality (CSB) is made from the subscriber station to the base station. A quality of a first link path from the subscriber station to the base station that passes through the relay station is determined based on at least the link qualities (Csr, Crb). A quality of a second link path from the subscriber station to the base station that does not pass through the relay station is determined based on at least the link quality (Csb). Finally, a determination is made whether to utilize the first link path or the second link path from the subscriber station to the base station based on at least the quality of the first and second link paths.