Network-Controlled Repeater Power Control for Coverage Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cellular communication systems face challenges in efficiently expanding network coverage, particularly in areas where backhaul is not available or economically viable, leading to inconsistent data transmission quality and potential interference issues.
Innovation Solution
Deployment of network-controlled repeaters (NCRs) that utilize beamforming techniques and dynamic power control mechanisms, adjusting transmission power and amplifying gains based on side control information from the base station, to enhance network coverage and minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If network coverage is expanded using traditional repeaters, then coverage area increases, but interference issues worsen and data transmission quality becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting transmission power levels and beamforming configurations based on channel conditions. The base station controls the repeater to transmit with different power levels on different links (backhaul vs. access), and adjusts beam directions to optimize signal quality while minimizing interference to other users in the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the base station receives channel state information and quality metrics from the repeater and user equipment, then uses this feedback to dynamically adjust transmission parameters. The base station sends control information back to the repeater to optimize performance, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions and maintains consistent transmission quality.
2Illumination intensity
If transmission power is increased to improve coverage, then signal strength increases, but interference to other users increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by directing concentrated signal energy specifically toward the intended user equipment through beamforming, rather than omnidirectional transmission. This creates high signal strength in the desired direction while maintaining lower power levels in other directions, thereby reducing interference to other users. The beamforming weights are optimized locally for each user's specific location and channel conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes transmission power parameters based on channel conditions and user requirements. The base station controls the repeater to use different power levels on the backhaul link versus the access link, and adjusts power according to channel quality indicators, allowing high signal strength when needed while minimizing interference during normal operation.
3Reliability
If dynamic power control is implemented, then transmission quality consistency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the base station as an intermediary that centralizes the complexity of power control decisions. Rather than requiring the repeater to independently make complex power adjustment decisions, the base station receives channel information, computes optimal power levels and beamforming parameters, and sends control instructions to the repeater. This transfers the computational complexity to the base station, which has more processing resources and global network knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback loops where the repeater and user equipment report channel quality and signal measurements to the base station, which then adjusts power parameters accordingly. This automated feedback-based control maintains consistent transmission quality without requiring complex manual configuration or intervention, as the system self-adjusts based on measured conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves network coverage and reduces interference by optimizing transmission power and beamforming, ensuring consistent data exchange between base stations and user equipment, even in challenging environments.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting on the at least one of the backhaul link or the access link a signal by using a plurality of antenna elements of the network-controlled device based on the transmit control information
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods providing transmission power controls in support of expanding a network coverage. In an example, a device is configured to expand the network coverage and establishes multiple wireless links between a base station and a user equipment (UE). The device can be network-controlled, whereby such controls can include adjusting the transmission power used by the device to transmit on at least one of such wireless links.