Repeater TDD Switching via LTE Signal Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G NR communication systems operating in TDD mode, determining the switching timing for downlink and uplink communications is resource-intensive due to the need to receive and demodulate signals to obtain information about the start point of the 5G NR signal.

Innovation Solution

A repeater system that generates a TDD switching signal based on information about the start point of a first communication signal, such as LTE, to control uplink and downlink switching for relaying a second communication signal, like 5G, using parameters like downlink-uplink pattern periods, consecutive slots and symbols, and compensating for time delays, while detecting errors in signal reception.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the repeater receives and demodulates the 5G NR signal to obtain start point information, then the switching timing accuracy is improved, but the resource consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching timing accuracyVSAvoidresource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses an LTE signal as an intermediary to indirectly obtain TDD switching timing information for 5G NR relaying. Instead of directly receiving and demodulating the 5G NR signal, the repeater receives the LTE signal from the donor base station, extracts TDD switching timing information from it, and uses this information to control the switching for relaying the 5G NR signal. This intermediary approach reduces resource consumption while maintaining switching timing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Use of energy by moving object

If the repeater uses LTE signal information to control 5G NR switching, then the resource consumption is reduced, but the complexity of signal processing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource consumptionVSAvoidsignal processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by using the LTE signal to serve multiple functions: it provides both the TDD switching timing information needed for 5G NR relaying and acts as a reference signal for synchronization. The LTE signal from the donor base station is utilized comprehensively to extract timing information that controls the switching for the 5G NR signal, reducing the need for separate processing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11101970B2Repeater and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2021.08.24 SOLID
  • US11101970B2 patent drawing
  • US11101970B2 patent drawing
  • US11101970B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An operating method of a repeater, the operating method comprises: receiving a first communication signal according to a first mobile communication standard, generating a time division duplex (TDD) switching signal based on information about a start point of the received first communication signal, and controlling switching of an uplink and a downlink of a repeater that relays a second communication signal according to a second mobile communication standard based on the generated TDD switching signal.