Service Enhancing Device for Wireless Coverage Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in providing consistent coverage, especially for devices at the edge of the network or in areas with interference, due to the high cost and time required for deploying additional base stations, and the inability to effectively address temporary or mobile coverage needs.
Innovation Solution
Deployment of network-aware nodes, such as idle or dedicated user equipment, configured to enhance signal strength and provide extended connectivity by acting as service enhancers, which receive data from base stations and transmit it to client devices with improved signal quality, without generating control signals, thereby improving coverage and throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If more base stations are added to extend network coverage, then coverage area is improved, but capital expenditure and operational expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces user equipment as intermediary nodes to extend network coverage. These user equipment devices act as relays between base stations and client devices, forwarding data and signals to enhance coverage in areas where additional base stations would be costly. The user equipment serves as a cost-effective intermediary that provides coverage extension without requiring expensive infrastructure deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables user equipment to perform service enhancement functions autonomously. Idle user equipment devices voluntarily assist the network by relaying data and providing coverage enhancement without requiring network operator deployment or configuration. This self-service approach allows users to contribute to network coverage expansion using their own devices, eliminating the need for costly operator infrastructure deployment.
2Strength
If more base stations are deployed to improve coverage, then signal strength is improved, but deployment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service deployment model where user equipment automatically becomes involved in network coverage enhancement without requiring operator intervention. The system identifies idle user equipment and assigns them coverage enhancement roles dynamically, eliminating the lengthy physical deployment process associated with installing new base stations. This approach provides rapid signal strength improvement in areas needing coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic coverage enhancement system where user equipment can be assigned and reassigned based on real-time network conditions and device availability. Rather than static base station deployment, the system dynamically allocates coverage enhancement tasks to available user equipment, enabling rapid adaptation to changing coverage needs without physical infrastructure changes.
3Reliability
If base stations are added to extend coverage, then network service is improved, but the solution is not suitable for temporary uses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic coverage enhancement system using user equipment that can be rapidly deployed and removed without physical infrastructure changes. The system can adapt to temporary events such as concerts, sports events, or emergency situations by dynamically assigning coverage enhancement tasks to available user equipment in the area, providing flexible network service for temporary needs without permanent infrastructure deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables users to volunteer their devices for temporary coverage enhancement events without requiring operator deployment. Users can sign up to provide coverage enhancement services during specific events, and the system automatically configures them to relay data and extend network service. This self-service model provides excellent adaptability for temporary uses while maintaining reliable network service during the event.
4Area of stationary object
If conventional relays and boosters are used to enhance signal, then coverage is improved, but control signals must be generated by the relay device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces user equipment as an intermediary that enhances coverage without generating its own control signals. Instead of acting as a traditional relay that creates and manages control signals, the user equipment simply forwards data and control information received from base stations to client devices. This approach reduces the complexity requirements of the coverage enhancement device while maintaining effective coverage extension.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention describe a novel solution to enhance network service to devices with limited or no connectivity. Embodiments include network-aware nodes deployed by an end-user or operator which are configured by a network to achieve enhanced coverage, enhanced throughput, enhanced battery life, and mitigation of cell boundary experiences, etc. Embodiments provide these benefits to a specified or non-specified set of user equipment (e.g., neighboring user equipment). The service expansion terminal can be an available user equipment that is idle and that has been volunteered, assigned, or is a dedicated node with limited user interface and designed for carrying out enhanced coverage, enhanced throughput, enhanced battery life, and the mitigation of cell boundary experiences, etc.