Network Device Over-the-Air Test and Measurement Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current end-to-end over-the-air test and measurement systems for wireless communication networks are incomplete, limiting the range of measurements that can be performed on highly integrated communication systems, and require hierarchical or layered distribution of control information.
Innovation Solution
A network device configuration that enables over-the-air test and measurement systems to provide a control channel for characterizing network devices and communication channels without hierarchical distribution, allowing for direct control and self-configuration for testing and measurement purposes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hierarchical or layered distribution of control information is used, then control and coordination between network devices is achieved, but device complexity and system overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control channel functionality from the hierarchical distribution framework, allowing direct control signal exchange between network devices without requiring complex hierarchical coordination layers. This removes the overhead while preserving control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Network devices are enabled to autonomously configure themselves for testing and measurement purposes by directly receiving control signals from other network devices, eliminating the need for external hierarchical control infrastructure and reducing system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional T&M systems are used, then partial testing capabilities are provided, but the range of measurements on highly integrated communication systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables network devices to perform multiple functions including both communication operations and self-testing/measurement operations. The same wireless interface and processing units are used for both normal operation and characterization, eliminating the need for separate dedicated T&M equipment and achieving comprehensive testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the test and measurement functions with the normal network device operations. Control signals for characterization are transmitted through the same control channel used for normal operations, and the characterization processes are integrated into the device's existing processing architecture.
3Measurement precision
If end-to-end over-the-air testing is implemented, then comprehensive network characterization is achieved, but control signal distribution requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control signal distribution into direct peer-to-peer transmissions between network devices rather than requiring centralized hierarchical distribution. Each device independently receives and processes control signals from its communication partners, simplifying the distribution architecture while enabling comprehensive end-to-end characterization.
Data Source
AI summary
Among network devices for use within a wireless communication network, a transmitting network device is configured to transmit to a receiving network device via a control channel one or more control signals for configuring the receiving network device for a characterization of at least one of the transmitting network device and the receiving network device and/or for a characterization of one or more communication channels between the transmitting network device and the receiving network device.