Wireless Node Auto-Configuration for LTE Networks

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current auto-configuration methods for wireless radio nodes are inefficient and inflexible, requiring pre-configuration and manual reconfiguration when location changes, leading to high operational expenditures and limited adaptability to network conditions.

Innovation Solution

Implement an auto-discovery and auto-configuration method that allows wireless nodes to dynamically detect their role, connect to the best available wireless peer, and periodically reevaluate connections for optimal network integration, using industry best practices and neighborhood discovery processes to obtain necessary configuration information from a centralized server.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If pre-configuration is used for wireless nodes, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidlocation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring nodes with basic identification information and capabilities at manufacturing, while reserving the ability to dynamically discover and configure additional parameters after deployment. This allows nodes to be pre-prepared for quick integration while maintaining adaptability through subsequent auto-discovery processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration system transitions from static pre-configuration to dynamic auto-discovery. Nodes continuously monitor and adapt their configuration based on real-time network conditions, peer availability, and environmental factors, allowing the system to evolve from fixed manufacturing settings to flexible operational configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If manual reconfiguration is performed when location changes, then manufacturing precision is maintained, but productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidinstallation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by implementing auto-configuration capabilities that allow nodes to automatically discover their role, select appropriate peers, and configure themselves without manual intervention. When nodes move to new locations, they autonomously reconfigure by discovering available network resources and adapting their settings, eliminating the need for technician reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Nodes are pre-configured with discovery protocols and configuration templates that enable rapid automatic reconfiguration when relocated. This preliminary preparation allows nodes to quickly adapt to new environments through automated processes rather than requiring manual reconfiguration from scratch.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If experienced technicians are used for node installation, then reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation reliabilityVSAvoidoperational expenditure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces human expertise with automated intelligence by implementing sophisticated discovery protocols and decision-making algorithms that enable nodes to autonomously determine their role, select optimal peers, and configure themselves. This self-service capability maintains reliability through consistent automated procedures while eliminating the need for expensive experienced technicians.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates continuous feedback mechanisms where nodes monitor network conditions, peer performance, and configuration effectiveness, automatically adjusting their behavior and configuration based on observed outcomes. This feedback-driven approach ensures reliable operation while reducing dependency on human expertise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Manufacturing precision

If static pre-configuration is used for specific locations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation-specific configurationVSAvoidnetwork condition flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static location-specific configurations to dynamic adaptive configurations. Nodes continuously discover and adapt to changing network conditions, peer availability, and environmental factors, allowing the same node to optimally configure itself in different locations and network scenarios without requiring pre-configured location-specific settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements universal configuration templates and discovery protocols that enable nodes to function effectively across diverse locations and network conditions. Rather than creating specialized configurations for each location, the system uses a universal approach where nodes adapt their behavior based on real-time environmental assessment.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9585029B2Start-up sequence and configuration for a radio node
Publication Date: 2017.02.28 PARALLEL WIRELESS INC
  • US9585029B2 patent drawing
  • US9585029B2 patent drawing
  • US9585029B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In this invention we disclose methods of automatically configuring a wireless node when it initially powers on and seeks to integrate into an existing wireless network. The wireless node could be part of an ad hoc, software defined network. One such network could be LTE network. The auto-configuration methods disclosed herein can be executed on wireless nodes throughout their operation. In alternate embodiments, the methods disclosed could be used to create a new configuration based on changed environmental conditions, location or node capability change. These embodiments allow wireless nodes to migrate to better quality connections if they become available.