Network-Assisted Groupcast Transmission for D2D Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current groupcast transmission in device-to-device (D2D) communication is limited as UEs outside radio proximity of the transmitter cannot receive signals, leading to incomplete group communication, and the scarcity of spectrum resources hinders efficient communication.
Innovation Solution
A radio network node assists in groupcast transmission by receiving a groupcast signal from a D2D UE, determining the target UEs, and relaying D2D user plane data via cellular communication to ensure broader coverage and better spectral efficiency, enabling hybrid direct/network routing paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If D2D groupcast transmission is performed directly between UEs, then spectral efficiency is improved, but coverage is limited to radio proximity only
Solution Approach 1:
The network node acts as an intermediary that receives groupcast data from the transmitting UE, determines the target UE group, and relays the data to UEs that are not in radio proximity of the transmitter. This mediator approach enables extended coverage while maintaining efficient spectrum utilization through coordinated network assistance.
2Reliability
If dedicated spectrum is allocated for D2D communication, then communication reliability is improved, but spectrum scarcity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables cellular uplink resources to serve dual purposes: traditional cellular communication and D2D groupcast transmission. The network node coordinates resource sharing between these functions, allowing the same spectrum to be universally utilized for multiple communication modes, thereby improving reliability without requiring additional dedicated spectrum.
3Reliability
If network assistance is added for groupcast transmission, then coverage and reliability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitting UE autonomously sends groupcast data to the network node without requiring complex coordination protocols. The network node automatically performs target UE determination and data relaying based on received data and stored group information. This self-service mechanism minimizes signaling overhead and system complexity while achieving improved coverage and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A radio network node for assisting in groupcast transmission between a first user equipment capable of device-to-device operation, D2D UE, and a group of target D2D UEs. A target D2D UE, as well as methods therein are also provided. Coverage is increased by assisting in groupcast transmission coverage. Embodiments provide improved spectral efficiency and/or improved communication reliability.