Multi-Hop Relay Frame Configuration for Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-hop relay Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) communication systems, handover and synchronization between direct link and relay link services are challenging due to asynchronous operations between Base Stations (BS) and Relay Stations (RS), making efficient network reconfiguration and service provision difficult, especially in environments with fluctuating traffic and changing call demands.
Innovation Solution
A frame configuration method is introduced, dividing the subframe into connection-link and relay-link zones to enable synchronized handover and synchronization, allowing BS-MS, RS-MS, and RS-RS communications, with a timing controller and RF duplexer separating signals for MS and RS communication zones, facilitating transparent relaying and increased freedom in configuring relay links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-hop relay scheme is used to expand coverage and improve channel quality, then the system can serve MSs in poor channel conditions, but handover and synchronization become difficult due to asynchronous operations between BS and RS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication links into direct links (BS-MS) and relay links (RS-MS), allowing different synchronization mechanisms to be applied to each type of link. This segmentation enables the system to maintain reliable communication in both direct and relay scenarios while managing the complexity of handover and synchronization separately for each link type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a synchronization mediator mechanism where the Base Station (BS) acts as a central coordinator. The BS transmits synchronization signals that Relay Stations (RS) use to align their operations, ensuring that all nodes in the multi-hop relay system operate synchronously. This intermediary approach resolves the asynchronous operation problem while maintaining the benefits of relay communication.
2Reliability
If fixed Base Stations are used to establish reliable direct links, then communication reliability is high, but network configuration flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic network configuration capabilities by allowing Relay Stations to be deployed and configured based on real-time traffic distribution and call demands. The system can dynamically add, remove, or reposition RSs to adapt to changing network conditions, transforming the static fixed-BS architecture into a dynamic hybrid architecture that maintains reliability while gaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the Base Station universal by enabling it to perform both direct communication functions (BS-MS links) and relay coordination functions (managing RS-MS links). This multi-functionality allows the fixed BS infrastructure to support both reliable direct links and flexible relay-based extensions, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If relay stations are deployed to provide services in shadow areas and expand coverage, then system adaptability improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring synchronization parameters and operational protocols at Relay Stations during initialization. The BS provides pre-established synchronization signals and configuration data to RSs before they begin relaying operations. This preliminary setup simplifies the overall system complexity by automating the configuration process rather than requiring manual setup for each relay deployment.
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AI summary
An apparatus and method for configuring a subframe to support a relay service in a multi-hop relay BWA communication system are provided, in which a first zone of a subframe is configured for at least one of communication between a BS and a first MS within the coverage area of the BS and communication between at least one RS and a second MS within the coverage area of the at least one RS, and a second zone of the subframe is configured for at least one of communication between the BS and the at least one RS and communication between the at least one RS and another RS.