Configuring repeater-assisted communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network coverage in certain wireless communications networks may be limited, and existing solutions like repeaters can be costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
Configuring repeater-assisted communication by transmitting control information to network nodes to manage the on/off states and timing of repeaters, using techniques such as ON/OFF signaling, spatial beamforming, and joint transmission to optimize network coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If repeaters are deployed to extend network coverage, then network coverage area is improved, but network cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple repeater nodes into a coordinated network where nodes share control information and synchronize their operations. By merging the functionality of multiple repeaters under unified control, the system achieves extended coverage without proportionally increasing costs, as resources are shared and optimized across the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic ON/OFF control of repeater nodes based on real-time network conditions and demand. Repeater nodes can be activated or deactivated according to traffic patterns and coverage requirements, allowing the network to adapt its coverage capacity dynamically rather than maintaining constant operation of all nodes, thereby reducing overall network costs.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple repeater nodes are activated to extend coverage, then network coverage is improved, but interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic ON/OFF signaling between repeater nodes, where nodes are activated in alternating time periods rather than simultaneously. This periodic activation pattern allows the network to extend coverage through multiple nodes while minimizing interference by ensuring that not all nodes transmit at the same time, thus resolving the contradiction between coverage expansion and interference reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes feedback mechanisms where repeater nodes exchange control information about their operational states and detect interference conditions. Based on this feedback, nodes can adjust their activation status dynamically, turning off when interference is detected and turning on when conditions are favorable, thereby extending coverage while maintaining acceptable interference levels.
3Device complexity
If repeater nodes operate independently, then device complexity is reduced, but coordination efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coordination function by introducing a centralized controller or control mechanism that manages multiple repeater nodes. Individual repeater nodes maintain simple independent operation for basic signal transmission, while the segmentation of control functions to a dedicated control entity enables efficient coordination without increasing the complexity of each individual repeater node.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for configuring repeater-assisted communication. One method includes transmitting, from a first network node (“NN”), an indication of repeater-assisted communication to a second NN and a third NN. The method includes transmitting configuration information to the second NN and the third NN. The configuration information includes control information that corresponds to whether the second NN and the third NN are turned on or turned off, the control information corresponding to whether the second NN and the third NN are turned on or turned off is correlated, the control information identifies timing information for the second NN and the third NN, and the timing information indicates whether the second NN and the third NN are expected to transmit a signal received at the second NN and the third NN at a prior time to the first NN and/or a fourth NN based on the configuration information.