Vehicle Wireless Modems with Link Manager for Seamless Handovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in providing high-capacity, reliable, and efficient communication support for fast-moving vehicles, particularly due to limitations in air interface resource utilization and frequent handovers required in mm-wave radio communication links, which are exacerbated by directional and line-of-sight dependencies.
Innovation Solution
A communication system employing electronically steerable beamforming directional antennas on both access points and modems, with a link manager that terminates and reinitializes mm-wave radio communication links to optimize resource utilization and handover performance by dynamically adjusting beam directions and selecting candidate access points based on link quality and vehicle movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If mm-wave radio communication links with directional antennas are used to increase communication capacity, then communication capacity is improved, but handover frequency and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing candidate access point lists and pre-evaluating potential handover targets before actual handover is needed. The link manager proactively identifies and prepares alternative access points, reducing the complexity and frequency of actual handover operations by having contingency plans ready in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical handover mechanisms with electronic beamforming and signal processing. Instead of physically moving antennas or using complex mechanical switching, the system uses electronically steerable beamforming to redirect communication links, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic control that reduces handover frequency and simplifies the overall system.
2Productivity
If directional beamforming is used to improve air interface resource utilization, then resource utilization is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to line-of-sight dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by using directional beamforming selectively in specific spatial zones and frequency bands where line-of-sight conditions are favorable, while maintaining more robust omnidirectional or diversified connections in areas where obstructions are common. This localized application of directional technology optimizes resource utilization without compromising overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The link manager implements beforehand cushioning by continuously monitoring link quality metrics and preparing backup communication paths before actual link failures occur. When directional links show signs of degradation due to line-of-sight blockages, the system proactively switches to alternative paths, cushioning against reliability deterioration before it affects communication.
3Reliability
If frequent handovers are performed to maintain connectivity for fast-moving vehicles, then connectivity is maintained, but data interruptions and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system reduces data interruptions by performing preliminary handover preparations in advance. The link manager identifies candidate access points and pre-establishes communication parameters before the vehicle actually needs to handover, allowing seamless transitions that minimize connectivity breaks and reduce time loss during handover events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that handover processes occur without breaking the data flow. The link manager coordinates beamforming adjustments, frequency transitions, and access point switches in a continuous manner that keeps communication active throughout the handover process, eliminating gaps and reducing time loss.
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
This approach enhances communication reliability, reduces data interruptions, and improves air interface resource utilization, enabling seamless handovers and increased communication capacity for fast-moving vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
A communication system employing electronically steerable beamforming directional antennas on both access points and modems
Implementation Method 2
mm wave radio communication links supporting a data session
Data Source
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AI summary
A communication system supports communication between an end node (101) of a vehicle (103) and a remote correspondent node (105) via a fixed network (107) which comprises a plurality of wireless access points (109) with a directional antenna arrangement for mm wave radio communication using directional beams. A vehicle (103) comprises wireless modems (111, 113, 701, 703) employing electronically steerable beamforming directional antennas for establishing mm wave radio communication links to the access points (109). The wireless modems (111, 701) form links to two different access points (109). A link manager (1101) is arranged to terminate a second mm wave radio communication link in response to a link failure of a first mm wave radio communication link, and to initialize setup of a third mm wave radio communication link in response to the termination of the second mm wave radio communication link.