Terminal Relay Activation for Dynamic Network Coverage Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in dynamically increasing radio cell coverage at low cost, particularly in scenarios requiring emergency services or network expansion, as existing methods are inflexible and add to traffic loads and installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A terminal device equipped with a wireless interface capable of transmitting configuration information to determine its suitability for acting as a relay, allowing it to selectively activate a relay function for communication between other terminals and the radio access network, using ProSe-enabled communication methods to identify and prioritize suitable devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If dedicated relays are deployed to extend coverage, then network coverage is improved, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables regular terminal devices to perform relay functions in addition to their primary communication function. This multi-functionality allows any terminal to act as a relay when needed, eliminating the need for dedicated relay infrastructure and reducing installation and maintenance costs while extending network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-organizing relay selection where terminals autonomously identify and select suitable relay devices without requiring complex centralized deployment planning. This self-service mechanism reduces the operational overhead and maintenance burden associated with dedicated relay networks.
2Area of stationary object
If additional base stations are installed to increase coverage, then network coverage is improved, but deployment complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms regular terminals into multi-functional devices that can serve both as end-users and as relay nodes. This eliminates the need for additional base stations or dedicated relay infrastructure, simplifying network architecture while dynamically expanding coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic relay selection and activation where the network topology adapts in real-time based on coverage requirements. Terminals can dynamically become or stop being relays based on their location, capability, and network needs, providing flexible coverage expansion without permanent infrastructure changes.
3Reliability
If control nodes manage relay selection to ensure suitability, then relay reliability is improved, but signaling traffic load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary relay capability indication where terminals proactively advertise their relay suitability (capabilities, location, status) before being selected. This preliminary information availability enables control nodes to make reliable relay selections without extensive probing or verification signaling, reducing overall traffic load while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where terminals provide information about their relay performance and status. This feedback enables control nodes to make informed relay selection decisions with minimal signaling, ensuring reliable relay function while optimizing traffic efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal device (3) for wireless communication comprises a wireless interface (25) configured for communication with a radio access network (10) of a cellular communication network. The terminal device (3) is configured to transmit, via the wireless interface (25), a message to at least one other terminal (2). The message includes configuration information related to a relay function of the terminal device. The terminal device (3) is configured to activate the relay function to start relaying communication between a requesting terminal (2) of the at least one other terminal (2) and the radio access network (10) after transmission of the message.