Radio Node Selective Synchronization for D2D Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communications networks face inefficiencies in providing synchronization information for Device-to-Device (D2D) communications, particularly when radio nodes acting as synchronization sources or relays need to be deactivated or replaced, leading to signaling overhead and potential interference.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where a radio node selectively provides synchronization information for D2D communications by receiving indications to stop or continue providing synchronization information, allowing for flexible deactivation and reactivation based on internal or external requests, such as from neighboring nodes or higher layers, thereby reducing interference and improving network performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a radio node continuously provides synchronization information for D2D communications, then synchronization reliability is improved, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization reliabilityVSAvoidsignaling overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of synchronization information transmission by allowing radio nodes to adjust their synchronization provision status based on received indications. The system transitions from static continuous transmission to dynamic on-demand transmission, where nodes can be activated or deactivated as synchronization sources or relays based on network conditions and requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables radio nodes to autonomously determine whether to continue providing synchronization information by evaluating received indications against their own operational status and network requirements. Each node independently manages its synchronization provision function based on local decisions combined with network-wide coordination signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Quantity of substance

If a radio node deactivates synchronization information provision, then signaling overhead is reduced, but synchronization stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignaling overheadVSAvoidsynchronization stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where radio nodes send indications to other nodes about their synchronization provision status. When a node deactivates its synchronization function, it notifies other nodes, which can then adjust their behavior accordingly. This feedback loop maintains synchronization stability by ensuring all nodes have consistent information about available synchronization sources and relays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces indication messages as intermediary signals that coordinate synchronization status changes across the network. These indications act as mediators that convey activation/deactivation decisions from one node to others, ensuring coordinated transitions that maintain overall network synchronization stability during changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If multiple radio nodes provide synchronization information simultaneously, then coverage area is expanded, but interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidinterference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements local quality control by allowing different radio nodes to provide synchronization information in different spatial regions or under different conditions. Instead of uniform simultaneous transmission from all nodes, the system enables selective activation where specific nodes provide synchronization services in specific areas or time periods, reducing overlap and interference while maintaining broad coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts which radio nodes provide synchronization information based on received indications and current network conditions. This dynamic allocation allows the system to optimize the number and location of active synchronization sources, expanding coverage area while minimizing interference by avoiding simultaneous transmission from all nodes at all times.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3064002B1A radio node and method for selectively providing syncronization information for a device-to-device (D2D) communication
Publication Date: 2021.02.24 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP3064002B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3064002B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3064002B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A method performed by a radio node for selectively providing synchronization information for Device-to-Device, D2D, communications between devices in a wireless communications network is provided. The radio node receives, when the radio node is providing synchronization information an indication to stop providing synchronization information for D2D communications. The radio node (120) determines whether to continue to provide synchronization information for D2D communications or not based on the received indication. A radio node for selectively providing synchronization information for Device-to- Device, D2D, communications between devices in a wireless communications network is also provided.