Network Node Cross-RAT Channel Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless channel access solutions, such as IEEE 802.11, face collisions and inefficiencies when multiple clients access channels simultaneously, especially in congested environments like heavy traffic scenarios, and lack automatic channel selection capabilities, particularly for vehicles using multiple Radio Access Technologies (RATs).
Innovation Solution
A cross-RAT scheduling mechanism that considers mobility patterns, spectrum usage authority, data traffic criticality, and confidentiality to optimize radio channel access across multiple RATs, using a network node to determine and allocate channels based on real-time channel status measurements and user requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If unscheduled channel access protocols (CSMA/CA) are used for wireless channel access, then devices can access the channel autonomously, but channel collisions occur when multiple clients access simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a scheduled channel access mechanism as an intermediary between autonomous CSMA/CA access and centralized control. The system uses scheduling assignments from the network to coordinate channel access timing, while devices still perform autonomous clear channel assessment (CCA) and listen-before-talk (LBT) procedures. This hybrid approach maintains device autonomy while preventing collisions through coordinated scheduling.
2Productivity
If multiple clients access the channel simultaneously using unscheduled protocols, then channel utilization increases, but collision problems are accentuated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic channel access scheduling where the network assigns different channel access opportunities to multiple clients based on real-time conditions. The scheduling mechanism dynamically adjusts which devices can access the channel, when they can access, and under what conditions (e.g., CCA requirements, LBT parameters), allowing high channel utilization while preventing collisions through time-varying access patterns.
3Adaptability or versatility
If IEEE 802.11 specification is used for wireless access, then devices can communicate in unlicensed spectrum, but automatic channel selection is not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to self-select optimal channels by providing them with scheduling assignments that include channel selection information. The network configures devices with multiple candidate channels and associated access parameters, allowing devices to autonomously select and switch between channels based on network conditions and service requirements, thereby achieving automatic channel selection while maintaining multi-RAT versatility.
4Reliability
If scheduled channel access is implemented for multiple RATs, then quality of service for critical traffic is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel access control mechanism into distinct functional layers: network-level scheduling assignments that provide overall coordination, and device-level autonomous procedures (CCA, LBT) that handle real-time channel assessment. This segmentation allows QoS-critical traffic to receive scheduled access guarantees while keeping individual device complexity manageable through standardized autonomous access procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method performed by a first network node (110), for managing channel access for a Wireless Device (WD) (120). The WD (120) supports one or more Radio Access Technologies (RATs). The first network node (110) receives a radio channel access request from the WD (120), which radio channel access request comprises information regarding a number of requirements on the channel access. The first network node (110) determines a channel access schedule based on the received information and channel statuses for the channels and RATs available within a geographical served by the first network node (110). The channel access schedule comprises information about the radio channel assigned to the WD (120). The first network node (110) further sends the channel access schedule to the WD (120).