Terminal Device Intermediate Node Functionality for Wireless Coverage Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in dynamically and cost-effectively expanding network coverage, especially in emergency situations or when a neighboring base station fails, as traditional methods like installing additional base stations or repeaters are costly and require maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method where a terminal device acts as an intermediate node, receiving permission from the base station to forward communication data, enabling it to extend coverage by acting as a repeater or a femto-cell base station, thereby including devices outside the original coverage area, using device-to-device communication and configuration data to manage the coverage extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If additional base stations or repeaters are installed to extend coverage, then network coverage is improved, but cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A terminal device acts as an intermediary node between the base station and further terminal devices outside coverage. The intermediate node functionality enables the terminal to forward communication data, effectively extending coverage without requiring additional base stations or repeaters. This resolves the contradiction by using an existing device as a mediator rather than adding new infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating both as a normal terminal and as an intermediate node with base station functionality. This allows the same device to serve multiple purposes - normal communication and coverage extension - without requiring separate dedicated infrastructure, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining coverage expansion capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional repeaters are deployed to dynamically increase coverage, then coverage flexibility is improved, but cost and maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts coverage by activating intermediate node functionality in terminal devices based on real-time needs. The base station can dynamically assign and revoke permissions for coverage extension, allowing the network to respond flexibly to changing conditions such as emergency situations or base station failures without permanent infrastructure changes.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of deploying physical repeaters, the system uses terminal devices as software-based intermediaries. The intermediate node functionality acts as a virtual mediator that can be activated or deactivated through permission management, providing dynamic coverage adjustment without physical deployment or maintenance overhead.
3Speed
If terminal devices are empowered to extend coverage autonomously, then coverage extension speed is improved, but control and coordination become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The base station maintains control through a permission management system that provides feedback loops. The base station can grant or revoke intermediate node permissions based on network conditions, ensuring coordinated coverage extension. This feedback mechanism allows rapid response while preventing chaotic autonomous behavior, resolving the contradiction between speed and control.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for operating a terminal device (106) of a wireless communication system (100). The terminal device (106) is connected to a base station (101) of the wireless communication system (100). According to the method, an intermediate node functionality is provided at the terminal device (106). The intermediate node functionality is configured to forward communication data received from the base station (101) to a further terminal device (107) and to forward communication data received from the further terminal device (107) to the base station (101). Upon receiving a permission from the base station (101) to activate the intermediate node functionality, the terminal device (106) activates the intermediate node functionality.