Relay Node Self-Backhauling via Mid-6 PRB Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, particularly in LTE-Advanced, relay nodes face challenges in maintaining backward compatibility with earlier LTE versions while providing efficient coverage and minimizing self-interference, especially when using in-band resources for self-backhauling, which can be costly and complex due to varying IMT-A spectrum allocations worldwide.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where the relay node initiates a communication link setup by acting as a user equipment towards the station, synchronizing with the donor cell using in-band resources, and then switching to transmit system information on mid-6 Physical Resource Blocks, allowing for efficient self-backhauling without constant measurement of the donor cell, thus maintaining backward compatibility and reducing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If relay nodes use in-band resources for self-backhauling, then coverage extension and network capacity are improved, but device complexity and interference management become worse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay node operation into distinct phases: an initial phase where the relay node measures donor cell signals and determines timing advance values, and a subsequent phase where it transmits system information using mid-6 PRBs. This segmentation allows the relay node to manage complexity by handling different functions at different times rather than simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay node performs preliminary actions by measuring donor cell reference signals and determining timing advance values before transitioning to system information transmission. This preliminary measurement and calculation phase prepares the relay node to operate efficiently in the second mode without continuous donor cell measurements, reducing ongoing complexity.
2Reliability
If relay nodes continuously measure donor cell signals, then synchronization is maintained, but energy consumption and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having the relay node measure donor cell signals only during an initial setup phase to determine timing advance values, then switching to a periodic transmission mode where it sends system information on mid-6 PRBs without continuous measurement. This periodic approach maintains synchronization reliability while significantly reducing ongoing energy consumption and processing overhead.
3Adaptability or versatility
If relay nodes transmit system information on mid-6 Physical Resource Blocks, then backward compatibility with LTE release 8 devices is maintained, but spectrum allocation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using mid-6 Physical Resource Blocks for system information transmission, which is a standardized resource allocation that works across different LTE configurations and maintains compatibility with LTE release 8 devices. This universal approach allows the relay node to function effectively in various spectrum allocation scenarios without requiring complex spectrum management, as mid-6 PRBs are a recognized standard resource.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication link is provided between a station of an access system and a relay node. The relay node is a node capable of wirelessly communicating with at least one communication device within the coverage thereof. A set up procedure for the communication link is initiated such that the relay node acts as a communication device towards the station, the set up procedure being initiated according to a set up procedure between the station and communication devices accessing the station directly. Communication between the relay node and at least one communication device within the coverage area thereof are handled such that the relay nodes acts as a station of an access system towards said at least one communication device.