Relay Node Identification via Physical Layer Identifier Bits
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, particularly in LTE networks, there is a need to accurately determine whether a network node is an access node or a relay node, as existing methods lack efficiency in distinguishing between the two, affecting signal coverage and throughput.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where user agents (UAs) use information such as Node IDs, primary synchronization channel (PSC) and secondary synchronization channel (SSC) data, broadcast control channel (BCCH) metadata, and connection-setup messages to differentiate between access nodes and relay nodes based on unique identifiers and signal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods are used to distinguish between access nodes and relay nodes, then the system can operate with standard protocols, but the efficiency of determining node type is insufficient, affecting signal coverage and throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of using distinct visual identifiers (analogous to color changes) by implementing specific bit patterns in physical layer messages that uniquely identify relay nodes versus access nodes. The UA detects these identifier bits to distinguish node types, enabling efficient path selection and improving both identification accuracy and communication throughput.
2Measurement precision
If the UA uses multiple information sources (Node IDs, PSC, SSC, BCCH metadata) to differentiate node types, then the identification accuracy improves, but the complexity of the detection process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential identification function by focusing on specific identifier bits within physical layer messages rather than processing all available information sources. This selective extraction approach maintains high identification accuracy while reducing the complexity of the detection process by concentrating on the most discriminative features.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the identification process into distinct stages: receiving physical layer messages, extracting identifier bits, comparing against known patterns, and determining node type. This segmentation allows the UA to systematically process information from multiple sources (Node IDs, PSC, SSC, BCCH metadata) without overwhelming complexity.
3Productivity
If relay nodes are correctly identified, then optimal communication paths can be selected improving throughput, but additional processing time is required for identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary identification actions by having the UA detect and process node type identifiers during the initial connection establishment phase. By determining whether a network node is a relay node or access node before full communication begins, the system can immediately optimize the communication path without requiring additional processing time during active data transmission.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for determining a presence of a relay node (102) in a wireless communications system. The method includes receiving, from a network node (102, 106) in the system, information indicating the presence of at least one of an access node and the relay node (210). The method further includes determining (220) whether the network node is the one of the access node and the relay node based on the information.