JP2007028561A - Method and system for providing active routing antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method capable of more effiently allowing and handling heterogeneous user traffics from a plurality of devices in a wireless network having a dynamically changing topology. <P>SOLUTION: An array antenna is disclosed. In one embodiment, the array antenna facilitates the transmission of data between a plurality of stationary wireless units. The array antenna has a plurality of antenna panels arranged in an hexagonal shape; singular or a plurality of array control members for controlling these antenna panels; and one antenna routing member for controlling the singular or the plurality of array control members. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes, “Mobile Broadband Using Dynamic Quality of Service Offering” filed on August 14, 2002. 35 U.S. from US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 403,786 entitled "System for Networks". S. C. Claims priority under §119.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to fixed and mobile wireless transceivers with dynamic routing based on quality of service criteria to optimize network communications, and in particular, data transfer in networks with dynamically changing topologies. The present invention relates to a method and system for providing an active routing antenna to be used.

  The popularity of wireless networks is increasing. Standards such as IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, Bluetooth, and Ultra Wideband (UWB) allow users to connect wirelessly through portions of the radio frequency spectrum. As the cost of wireless network systems decreases and their popularity increases, these systems are becoming more common. Some systems provide channels for the transfer of relatively unregulated information between various devices. These devices can be owned or operated by different users without legitimate registration, authorization, administrative approval, or other access restrictions. When mobile wireless transceivers are used, the number and type of devices accessing the wireless network can change constantly.

  The types of wireless systems available today have drawbacks in some applications. The IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g standard systems have two modes of operation: an infrastructure mode and an ad-hoc mode. The infrastructure mode is configured to use a dedicated radio controller and primarily provide a direct wireless link to a standard Ethernet network connection. The ad hoc approach allows peer-to-peer networking and allows file sharing between very small networks of multiple PCs on the same wireless channel. The nodes of this network control their own access to the wireless media. Ad hoc mode is primarily used to temporarily interconnect a small number of computers when an Ethernet backbone is not available or an emergency network is required. There is no way to gain access to corporate Ethernet networks or Internet connections. Thus, neither configuration is configured for “multi-hop” transmission. In a multi-hop configuration, data is transmitted through an intermediate wireless receiver before reaching the destination receiver.

  In general, the quality of a communication channel in a wireless network is such that, for example, a software process running on a device is not guaranteed a specific transmission rate at a given time interval. This makes it very difficult to provide media, video and audio streaming, for example.

  Other approaches to wireless communication also do not provide a comprehensive system configuration. For example, UWB only defines the radio physical layer. This only defines how bits are transmitted over the air interface physical connection. There is no definition for a flexible protocol that allows coordination of multiple devices, channels, links, etc. within a UWB wireless network. Bluetooth certainly has some features for point-to-point communication between multiple devices, but should be used in networks with changing topologies such as those consisting of multiple mobile wireless transceivers. Is based on difficult master-slave relationships. Furthermore, every node in the Bluetooth network must be able to cooperate with at least the master for the purpose of cooperation. Obviously, this limits the operating range of the network.

  Other considerations for flexible wireless communication systems include scalability, range, coverage, user interface presentations and options, network management, minimizing radio interference, compliance with applicable regulations, and market added value. Such as creation of user features, security and access control, physical configuration, device features and operation, etc.

  In addition, wireless communications are typically performed using radio frequency (RF). A wireless network typically consists of a number of base transmitting stations (BTS), each of which is connected to a wired network. Each BTS provides a range of RF coverage (also called a cell) to network users. The radio frequency used by the BTS may be a licensed or ISM band. The device communicates with a wired network that uses the radio frequency associated with the BTS. Neighboring BTSs may use different frequencies to improve the use of radio resources.

  The wireless network described above has a number of drawbacks. These drawbacks include, for example, link inefficiencies, security issues, roaming issues, and network deployment issues.

  For link inefficiencies, most current wireless technologies rely on the Media Access Control (MAC) layer to provide shared access to wireless media. However, the current MAC layer is configured to interact with a single point-to-point link, ie one mobile user / terminal device in communication with one BTS radio link. This creates a number of problems in the design of the MAC layer. For example, the MAC layer is not configured to adjust transmissions from multiple BTSs or peer nodes, but is configured to adjust transmissions from only one terminal device. Also, the MAC layer does not provide any quality of service function. This is because the nature of the communication link does not require you to do so. In addition, in some networks, the MAC layer must sense the wireless media before transmission, which means that the best link may not be utilized.

  With respect to network security, wireless networks are inherently shared media. Therefore, anyone who has an appropriate receiving device can intercept the network. For example, many attempts have been made to prevent eavesdropping by encrypting the wireless link based on some shared key or other algorithm. In public cellular systems, keys are generated and stored in a central database, which can create security issues with respect to access. Other techniques that have been used are end-to-end encryption using IPSec or secure shell. However, these techniques require software to run on the wireless connection and must always be executed by the user before wireless communication takes place between the user and the network.

  For roaming, handover techniques can be used to allow users to roam within network boundaries. However, when the user moves from one BTS to another BTS, the problem remains that the point of attachment to the network changes. In an IP network, this may mean that the subnet that the user initially registered changes, which can result in lost connectivity. Existing solutions to this problem rely primarily on the use of Mobile IP and its variants. These solutions lead to traffic as the user moves further and the network nodes are simply passing through the nodes and are not trying to terminate the IP traffic, thereby greatly reducing the use of network resources. It is not satisfactory in terms of inefficiency. Some of these solutions attempt to get rid of network trails, but they also cause fragmentation problems with real-time traffic.

  For network deployment, to provide wireless network coverage, it is generally necessary for the network operator to install BTSs in the region to provide coverage and then link these BTSs to the main network. . This is an expensive and time consuming process. In addition, BTS placement is generally governed by on-site physical constraints and may not be the best.

  One alternative to the fixed BTS-mobile terminal network architecture is an “ad hoc” wireless network. In this type of network, many or all of the nodes in the network may be mobile. As a result, it is difficult to know the relative position between two wireless nodes that wish to communicate. Therefore, it is also difficult to determine the “best route” for the destination or receiving node without flooding the route request with virtually all possible routes for the route to the destination. . The above-described method for establishing a link between two wireless nodes is very inefficient and a lot of bandwidth is wasted in the process. Furthermore, the method described above also limits the number of nodes that can be supported. In fact, the network is self-limiting because there is no node location information.

  To improve ad hoc network performance, location information can be provided to various wireless nodes, for example, by using a Global Positioning System (GPS). However, the use of GPS is generally very expensive in terms of product cost and power drain for each node. Furthermore, GPS has some coverage restrictions that prevent it from being used in some physical locations, for example, inside buildings.

  Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a wireless network having a dynamically changing topology that can more efficiently tolerate and handle foreign user traffic from multiple devices.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The method and system of the present invention allows multiple wireless transceivers to be managed and optimally flexibly communicated in a network having a dynamic topology. In one preferred embodiment, two types of transceivers are used. One is a mobile radio unit (MRU or “mobile unit”) and one is a semi-fixed or fixed radio unit (FUR or “fixed unit”). The mobile unit can be configured as a handheld or portable computing device with radio frequency (RF) transmission and reception capabilities. The fixed unit is typically a larger processing system, such as a personal computer, server, etc., that includes a more powerful wireless transceiver and thus has a longer range RF transmission capability.

  The mobile unit is configured to provide consumer oriented features such as music (or other voice) playback recording, address book, calendar, data storage and transmission. Other features may include playing a digital phone, local, downloaded or streamed video, etc. Content from the mobile unit is available without having to synchronize the information stored in the mobile unit with the database stored in the fixed unit or other mobile units or vice versa. Various aspects of the hardware, software and physical configuration of the mobile unit are further described below.

  In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fixed unit is configured to be installed at home with one or more mobile units registered for one particular fixed unit. Both fixed and mobile units can communicate with each other via short-range or long-range radio channels. These units transmit or communicate data via one or more “hops”, where “hops” communicate between two units, whether they are fixed units or mobile units. The first unit communicates with a second unit that is outside the range of this first unit, but the data can eventually be relayed to the second unit via an intermediate unit. As such, communication is achieved by transmission of data through the intermediate unit. Here, “hopping” refers to dynamically changing one or more intermediate units in order to add, delete, change, or modify intermediate relay points.

  Since most of the units of the network are mobile, the unique processing detailed in the present invention can be routed in a continuously changing wireless network environment or topology. This means that data is transmitted between fixed or mobile units by “hopping” between dynamically changing units. Importantly, the fixed unit can act as an intermediate unit in the “hopping” method of the present invention. The best path between the sending unit and the receiving unit may change between multiple transmissions or even within one transmission. This is because mobile units move or their availability changes for other reasons as the topology underlying the network changes.

  One feature of the wireless system of the present invention is a routing method that tracks unit location and inter-unit channel conditions. Non-limiting specific examples of this routing method include data transfer rate, reliability, number of unit hops, load, congestion, required quality of service (QoS), and the like. Additional factors such as the desired QoS to be provided to the user, device or process may also be used in the routing evaluation. For example, when a user is utilizing the voice feature of a device, the routing method attempts to ensure a minimum data rate or delay time without dropout to ensure that voice quality is maintained. . This feature has a higher level of service than file downloads and the like. This is because even if the download of a file is suspended, it does not have a decisive influence on the user. One advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to determine the level of service required based on the features required by the users of the network. Thus, the user does not need to be concerned about the state of the network, while in other networks, the user must stop talking or other actions until the radio conditions improve. It may not be.

  Another aspect of the routing method is the registration or detection of transceiver locations. When the fixed unit is installed in the home, the user can manually describe its position, for example, so that latitude and longitude coordinate values can be derived. A built-in GPS transceiver could perform the same task. Another approach is to triangulate the transceiver location by utilizing multiple known transceiver locations. Data regarding the various characteristics of the units useful for routing purposes is maintained in tables (or other storage forms) in the various units, the central location, or both. These tables are propagated throughout the network as needed. When a unit is brought into the network, or when a unit is taken out of the network, or moves within the network, the routing method (s) attempt to maintain a desired level of service.

  One feature of the RF (wireless) transmitter used in the present invention is the use of an antenna array for directional transmission. This allows an antenna so configured to “direct” the radio beam to a particular receiver, thus achieving a long distance with less power. The receiving capabilities of those antennas are also directional so that their sensitivity to a particular unit at a known location can be increased. Furthermore, this method can reduce interference from potentially competing signals. This increases network efficiency and thus increases network density and performance.

  The unit can be connected to other wireless (wireless) or wired networks, such as, but not limited to, the Internet, corporate or campus intranets, home networks, and the like. Services such as streaming media can be provided to one home or other designated recipients. Security and access control are provided. One aspect of the system allows a unit to relay information without storing that information to comply with typical media licenses or copyrights. The system provides flexible authorization, control, and other features for managing the use of media, objects, or other data.

  In general, all data can be securely relayed without the ability to interpret the data being transferred through one or more nodes. The system allows end-to-end encryption to protect traffic routed along the communication route. Alternatively, some parts or links of the communication route may be protected by encryption and other parts may not be protected, or different parts of the communication route may be protected using different cryptographic codes or techniques. is there. This is advantageous for a number of reasons. For example, to comply with a country's specific regulations or other issues, terminate the secure link at one or more intermediate nodes and then use another cryptographic code or in clear text It may be required to forward traffic. In other cases, it may be required to re-encrypt an already encrypted channel with a different encryption code.

  Other aspects of the invention include the unit's user interface, the network's scalability, and the like.

  In one embodiment, the FRU includes an array antenna that facilitates transmission of data with other FRUs. The array antenna includes a plurality of antenna panels arranged in a hexagonal shape, one or a plurality of array control members that control the antenna panels, and one antenna routing member that controls the one or more array control members.

  Further, according to the method of the present invention, the receiving FRU can determine the direction of the transmitting FRU or node using an antenna array having a plurality of panels. Each panel is configured to receive a signal. According to one aspect of the method, a gain table is configured for each of the panels, the gain table having a plurality of gain values corresponding to a plurality of angles. For each of the panels, a first table having data representing a received signal output difference between the panel and the first adjacent panel, and a received signal output difference between the panel and the second adjacent panel. And a second table having data to represent.

  Next, the panel receiving the signal of the maximum reception output is identified. If two or more panels receive a signal with the same maximum received power, the panel having the smallest signal output difference is selected using the first and second tables associated with the two or more panels. Is done. For the identified panel, the gain table associated with the first and second adjacent panels is searched to identify a first transmission angle and, if any, a second transmission angle. If the first transmission angle or the second transmission angle or both are available, the first and second transmission angles are used to determine the transmission angle for the transmitting node. If the first and second transmission angles do not exist, then the transmission angle is set based on the angle facing the identified panel.

  Reference to the remaining portions of the specification, including the drawings and claims, will realize other features and advantages of the present invention. Other features and advantages of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like or functionally similar members. Will be described in detail.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention, configured as one or more embodiments, is described below. FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, network 10 includes a plurality of radio units (respectively MRUs) 12 and a plurality of semi-fixed or fixed radio units 14 (respectively FRUs). Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to use other types of devices capable of transmitting and receiving signals, such as transceivers, as MRUs or FRUs in the present invention. Will understand.

  In one embodiment, the MRU 12 is a user portable device capable of handling wireless communications. The MRU 12 has two types of high bandwidth radios, one used for long range relay communication and the other used for short range local communication. The MRU 12 can communicate with neighboring MRUs and FRUs 14. The MRU 12 may also communicate with local accessory devices, including but not limited to wireless keyboards, wireless mice, wireless audio devices, and the like.

  The MRU 12 further includes a communication component capable of communicating with a secure token such as, but not limited to, a smart card 16, a subscriber identity module card (SIM) card, and other authentication devices. As will be described in detail below, the smart card 16 is used to store a user and specific security information about the user. The user and security information can be used to provide end-to-end encryption. That is, the user data is encrypted on the MRU 12 and can only be decrypted by the receiving node. Alternatively, the user data can be encrypted at any intermediate node. Furthermore, if a plurality of smart cards 16 are used, one MRU 12 can be shared by many different users.

  The FRU 14 is a device that uses high-bandwidth long-distance radio for communication. The FRU 14 also uses short-range radio for local communication with the MRU 12. The FRU 14 can communicate with other FRUs and MRUs 12. The FRU 14 is not limited to a data storage device such as a hard disk or a DVD / CD-ROM device, but is not limited to the Internet 18, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a general service digital network (ISDN), or the like. Communicate with a number of entities including networks and wireless networks such as, but not limited to, public land mobile network (PLMN), wireless local area networks, cellular networks (eg, CDMA, GSM and TDMA) can do. In one example, the FRU 14 communicates with a media server that controls access to media and fixed network services. Further, in one embodiment, the FRU 14 provides an open-accessible radio network (open domain) as a backbone network and closed radio access (closed domain) for the MRU 12 and their users registered with the FRU. To do. As will be described in detail later, the information or services available in the open domain, among other things, allow communication with other FRUs. In the closed domain, information or services can only be accessed by MRUs or users registered with the FRU. Information and services available from each of the open and closed domains of a FRU may be different for each specific FRU. Information and services available from FRU include, but are not limited to, applications such as games and other utility programs, audio data such as music, video data such as pictures and images, and audio / video such as movies. There is data. For example, it is possible to provide further subdivision of the closed domain used by media content providers and the like. This may include copyright or other material that has already been purchased or rented by one or more users of the FRU. In other words, the closed domain can be further subdivided among the users registered in that FRU, which means that different users can have different access rights to the content of the closed domain. means.

  The network 10 operates as illustrated below. The network 10 has a number of different types of connections. Semi-fixed long distance high bandwidth (HBLR) connections are used to interconnect multiple FRU relay points. There are also short-range, high-bandwidth connections in MRU and FRU that are used to interconnect these devices. The MRU also has a very short range medium bandwidth connection to allow wireless communication with the local MRU accessory device.

  When a new FRU is introduced into the network, the new FRU enters initialization mode. In this mode, the new FRU uses its HBLR connection to listen to or detect other FRUs that exist in the local or coverage area within the network. When other FRUs are detected, the new FRU attempts to establish a connection with these other FRUs. Other FRUs are detected, for example, by monitoring their radio links or pilot information that may be periodically broadcast by each device. The pilot information to be transmitted includes, but is not limited to, FRU ID, status, output information, and channel information. From these other FRUs, the new FRU determines its relative position as a position in the network. Based on this information, the new FRU assigns itself a unique address in the network. When performing these operations, the new FRU determines the table of local FRUs, their respective addresses, the radio frequencies that these local FRUs may be using, and the quality of the radio link between these local FRUs. Establish. The location of the new FRU can be determined in a number of ways including, for example, triangulation, GPS receiver, or data input directly to the device (which can be verified by other means). It should be noted that the new FRU may generate an address that is already in use for itself. If a double address is generated, the neighboring FRU informs the FRU that the self-assigned address needs to be changed as soon as the FRU uses the address on the network. . The FRU MAC address can be used to identify the dual address. This allows network addressing to maintain uniformity without double addresses.

  By using the approach described above, the new FRU can establish information about its location in the network and how to route traffic within the network. Once the new FRU has determined its position in the network, the new FRU then publishes its presence to other FRUs. Next, other FRUs within the new FRU's radio contact range add this new FRU to their routing table and specify the radio link quality associated with the new FRU. By publishing its presence to other FRUs, the new FRU provides another optional route for routing its traffic to these other FRUs. For example, because of the quality advantage of the radio link associated with the new FRU over a particular FRU, this particular FRU can use the new FRU to provide better QoS.

  When a new FRU is introduced into the network, this FRU functions as an intelligent relay point. A sending FRU wishing to route data to a particular destination is directed to a receiving FRU that forwards the data. This decision to send data to the receiving FRU includes, but is not limited to, link quality, radio link quality, number of hops to destination, traffic load status, application requesting data transmission, type of data to be transferred , Based on a number of factors, such as the required QoS. Once the receiving FRU is identified, the transmitting FRU transmits the packet to be transmitted and the receiving FRU acknowledges receipt of the packet if the packet is successfully received. ) Alternatively, the receiving FRU may deny receipt of a packet to indicate that the receiving FRU has received a bad packet or does not have a route for the packet. If the sending FRU does not receive any acknowledgment, which means that the transmitted packet is lost, then the sending FRU then optionally sends another FRU to retransmit the packet. Can find another route. Each packet is associated with the required QoS. This QoS can range from a high level for real-time traffic to a low level for best effort traffic. In one embodiment, at least four levels of QoS are provided. However, based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that more or less QoS levels can be provided depending on the needs of the network and / or design. .

  One FRU with traffic can also serve as a relay point for packets arriving from other FRUs in contact with the FRU. Based on each source of the received packet, the FRU can determine a more efficient route for the packet it generates and wants to transmit. More specifically, upon receiving a packet destined for another FRU or node, the media access control (MA) layer of the FRU examines the QoS associated with the packet and determines which queue to forward the packet to. Decide whether to use (queue). Different queues correspond to different routes in the network that are available to the FRU for packet forwarding. In general, higher QoS packets have priority, but to avoid network congestion or packet starvation, lower QoS packets are also processed by the network depending on the queue length. Queuing algorithms are well known. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to select an appropriate queuing algorithm to be used in the context of the present invention. For the network described here, additional parameters, such as radio link quality, which are not normally considered can also be incorporated into the QoS algorithm.

  The present invention has many advantages and advantages. For example, one advantage of the present invention is that FRUs can be placed anywhere in the network and the FRUs can later establish their own routes within the network. In fact, centralized control like that found in conventional wireless or wired networks is not necessary. The present invention provides a network that is decentralized and capable of performing peer-to-peer routing without the intervention of a third node or central control to provide routing information. Furthermore, as more FRUs are installed, the average distance between these FRUs decreases, and with this distance reduction, the radio link quality between FRUs improves. And the improvement in radio link quality results in higher bandwidth links between FRUs, thereby improving the overall performance of the network.

  The routing algorithm used for each FRU takes into account multiple aspects or features of the network. Each FRU receives information about such aspects or features from its MAC and radio physical layer. One such feature is the quality of the radio link provided to the FRU. Another feature is the congestion level of the network. Furthermore, it is possible to determine that a FRU links with another FRU that is not the nearest FRU by changing the power and transmission bandwidth used. This could be used to reduce the number of hops on the route between the source and destination. This can be important when reducing the delay associated with the traffic being sent. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other network features available in the context of the routing algorithm of the present invention.

  Furthermore, the routing algorithm also uses the conditions specified in the packet. An example of such a condition is QoS. Next, using the network characteristics and packet specification conditions as criteria, the routing algorithm determines the route used to relay the packet. For example, if the packet specifies a high QoS, this may require the FRU to identify the shortest route between two network nodes. As a result, the routing algorithm optimizes the route so that it does not hop through extra nodes. This could be done by all nodes in the network that decide not to use the optimal route to the destination. The optimal route to the destination can be determined based on a number of factors. For example, the optimal route may be based on the minimum number of intermediate units or the number of intermediate units equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, the intermediate unit in the optimal route can be selected based on various factors. For example, one intermediate unit may be included in the optimal route based on its radio link quality, and another intermediate unit may be included in the optimal route based on other criteria such as data transfer rate. is there. Furthermore, the factors or criteria used to select the intermediate unit may change over time. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand the optimal route to a destination and other factors available to determine the intermediate unit used for that optimal route. . Furthermore, because of the network radio type, FRUs may be lost or unavailable due to various reasons, such as a power outage, which may cause one or more entities in the routing table to become obsolete. When a FRU becomes unavailable, the routing algorithm attempts to reroute traffic around the unavailable FRU. If possible, the FRU alerts the network of its offline status, for example, by sending a broadcast message. This greatly simplifies network maintenance.

  Still further, each FRU also collects routing and device information from the MRU (s) available in its coverage area. As will be described in detail later, the MRU (s) can also be used for traffic forwarding. Therefore, such information can be used by the FRU routing algorithm to generate an optimal route.

  Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, when so directed, the routing algorithm associated with each FRU continuously selects the optimal route based on both user application and traffic requirements. It can be understood that Unlike conventional wireless technology, which often utilizes worst case RF design principles, the present invention described above can optimize its own performance in response to current conditions. For example, the FRU may initially have selected the best link quality route to maximize the success rate of transmission. However, if the other links seem to have better quality, the FRU has the option to switch to such other links even during packet transmission.

  Another advantage of the present invention is that it is possible to take into account network congestion. In modern wireless systems, network capabilities are configured for worst case situations. This usually means that some nodes are much larger and therefore more expensive than normally required under average conditions. However, in the networks described above, the network can avoid the congestion point by taking into account congestion problems that may subsequently occur and rerouting traffic further upstream. Thus, the nodes in the network need only be configured to receive an average load, which greatly reduces the cost of the deployed network.

  In addition to the ability to communicate with other FRUs, each FRU optionally has the ability to access one or more fixed networks to provide connectivity for various other types of services such as web and voice services. Prepare. In one embodiment, the FRU has a set of fixed connections that allow communication with other fixed networks such as the Internet and PSTN. By having access to one or more fixed networks, the FRU allows the user to enjoy additional services provided by such networks.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the MRU can also be used to facilitate communication in the network. Each MRU has a similar short range radio or high bit rate radio connection (HBSR). Using an HBSR connection allows the MRU to communicate with the FRU and / or other MRUs in its local area. By communicating with other MRUs, it is possible to set up a small number of networks within a network, even if one MRU is not within the range of a FRU. The MRU uses the same routing algorithm as described above in connection with the FRU to route traffic to nearby FRUs or MRUs. Thus, the network can utilize multiple MRU clusters (groups) to route traffic through congested areas. The MRU first looks to route data that it may need to send to the FRU first. However, if the MRU is located at the edge of the network, it can use the routing algorithm to direct traffic through the MRU or MRUs to reach the FRU. Also, congestion is likely to occur when MRUs are clustered due to traffic generated by those MRUs. Such MRU clusters can be used to reduce congestion. Instead of passing traffic through neighboring FRU (s), overloading neighboring FRU (s) by routing traffic through one or more MRUs in the MRU cluster It can be avoided. By using the approach described above, network capabilities are created dynamically, eliminating the need to be statically set as required in traditional wireless networks.

  Furthermore, the connectivity of the MRU is not fixed. The MRU can utilize any other connectivity available. The MRU may also dynamically identify the most appropriate FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) to carry traffic dynamically depending on network conditions. For example, even if an MRU remains temporarily fixed within a region, a FRU or MRU previously used by that MRU may become unavailable to route traffic. When this happens, the MRU utilizes its associated routing algorithm to dynamically select another FRU or MRU that is most appropriate or effective for routing the traffic. In another example, the MRU roams physically from one region to another. As a result, the previously selected MRU or FRU may no longer be the most appropriate or effective for routing traffic for that roaming MRU. Thus, a roaming MRU can similarly utilize its associated routing algorithm to dynamically select another FRU or MRU to route its traffic.

  Since the MRU can communicate and exchange traffic with the FRU (s) and other MRU (s), the routing algorithm utilized by the MRU is most appropriate for routing that traffic. Information received from the FRU (s) and other MRU (s) and other information is used to identify the FRU (s) and / or MRU (s). For example, the MRU first detects all FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) available to route its traffic and then detects these detected FRU (s). ) And / or MRU (s) and / or FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) are most suitable for routing the traffic Can do. In determining the most appropriate FRU (s) and / or MRU (s), the MRU may, for example, detect the detected FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) radio link. A number of factors can be evaluated, such as quality and routing information already collected by each detected FRU (s) and / or MRU (s). For example, an MRU attempting to communicate with another MRU in its radio range uses an intermediate MRU or FRU to improve bandwidth or other QoS that may be required for active services You can choose to do that. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will determine how to select available factors when determining the most appropriate FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) according to the present invention. You will understand.

  The MRU can also communicate with other local devices using its short range medium bandwidth radio. These local devices include, for example, a headset or LCD screen configured to provide information to or receive information from the MRU. For example, the FRU can transmit music to the MRU in the form of audio data. In response to this, the MRU transfers this audio data to the headset so that the user can listen to the music. Similarly, the FRU can transmit a video image in the form of video data to the MRU. The MRU then transfers this video data to the LCD screen to allow the user to view it. Alternatively, the video data can be further transferred to a nearby television or other display device suitably equipped for its display.

  As described above, the topology of the network of the present invention is dynamic. Because the network topology is dynamic, the coverage of this network can be expanded or reduced depending on the number of FRU (s) and MRU (s) that are active at any given time. Furthermore, as the number of FRU (s) and MRU (s) added to the network increases, the network can be cognitively expanded to cover a large geographic area.

  Also, as described above, the MRU 12 can accept secure tokens including, as a non-limiting example, a smart card 16, a SIM card, and other types of authentication devices. The information stored in the smart card 16 includes, as a non-limiting example, security information related to the user and the user, including a serial number, biometric data, and a key related to the user. Such information can be used to provide end-to-end encryption over the network to improve security. When a user attempts to access the Internet, user data, or some entity associated with the FRU, the control logic associated with the FRU recognizes the destination of the issued command and is extracted from the smart card 16. Security information (eg, a key associated with the user) is used to authenticate the user (or MRU) and encrypt the data stream. When the data reaches the destination FRU, it can only be decrypted if the source of the data is from a legitimate MRU. Further, in one embodiment, the authentication is location dependent, i.e. if the user (or MRU) is at a specific geographical or physical location, or if the user (or MRU) communicates with a specific FRU. Is configured to be authorized only if By using the above approach, data encryption and authentication of the user sending the data is possible. Encryption and authentication techniques are well known. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to select and implement an appropriate encryption and / or authentication technique used in the context of the present invention. Since the encryption is end-to-end, this approach allows the user to use the relay node with confidence that the communication cannot be intercepted by the intermediate node.

  In addition to or instead of end-to-end encryption, some or some links of the optimal route are protected by encryption while other portions are not protected by encryption and different parts of the optimal route are protected. It is possible to protect using different encryption codes or techniques. This is advantageous for a number of reasons. For example, to comply with a country's specific regulations or other issues, terminate the secure link of one or more intermediate nodes and then use another encryption code or clear traffic It may be required to transfer, or in other cases it may be required to encrypt an already encrypted channel with another encryption code.

  From the user's point of view, the network 10 can be used to send and receive data efficiently and simply as described below. A user (or one MRU) is registered for a user FRU. User and security information associated with the user is stored on the smart card. This information is used to identify and authenticate the user when a local MRU used by the user attempts to establish communication with the user FRU. Once a user is authenticated, information or services available from the closed domain of that user FRU can be accessed by the user using that local MRU. Information or services available from the closed domain include, for example, songs or movies stored in a storage device accessible to the user FRU by the user.

  In some situations, the local MRU being utilized by the user communicates directly with the user FRU. In other words, there are no intermediate FRU (s) and / or MRU (s) between the local MRU and the user FRU.

  In a second and possibly more general situation, the user wishes to use the remote MRU to retrieve information and / or services from the user's FRU closed domain. The remote MRU is located outside the range of the user FRU and therefore cannot communicate directly. As a result, as described above, the remote MRU identifies the appropriate route that includes the intermediate unit (s) to allow the remote MRU to communicate with the user FRU. The intermediate unit (s) includes one or more FRUs and / or MRUs. Similarly, information stored on the smart card is retrieved by the remote MRU and used to authenticate the user to the user FRU. The information from the smart card also allows for secure transmission over a route established between the remote MRU and the user FRU. Once the route is identified, information and services available from the user FRU's closed domain can be provided to the user via the remote MRU. As mentioned above, the route used for communication between the remote MRU and the user FRU changes dynamically depending on many factors such as existing network conditions and conditions specified in the transmitted packet. there is a possibility. In other words, the intermediate unit (s) used to carry traffic between the remote MRU and the user FRU may change dynamically over time.

  In one embodiment, the present invention is configured to operate in the 5 GHz NNII / UNII band. However, based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be used at any frequency.

  In one embodiment, the FRU includes an array antenna configured to facilitate routing of traffic in the network described above. In one embodiment, the array antenna has six antenna panels or members arranged in a hexagonal shape. Each antenna panel includes a plurality of patch antennas, and the gain and bandwidth of the antenna panel are determined by the combination and number of these batch antennas. Each antenna panel can provide a directional gain of about 17 dBi, and the half-power beam width is about 60 degrees. Various beam widths and antenna gains can be configured by changing the etched antenna pattern. Similarly, it is possible to change the number of panels while sticking to the algorithm described above. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the antenna panel can be used in a combination of 1-6 to provide a desired level of gain for the location of the receiving FRU. In other words, in addition to being able to use each antenna panel independently, it is possible to simultaneously activate or use two or more or all antenna panels for signal transmission. The beam can be controlled by adjusting the amplitude and phase weight of the signal directed to each antenna panel, or simply by switching the RF signal between each panel. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the array antenna can be formed by a parasitic antenna array that can direct radio beams in more than one direction. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that control can be provided by low cost hardware.

  By using the above approach, the network can use low gain antennas when the FRU is in the vicinity, and at the same time or quickly in succession at different frequencies, two or more types in two or more directions. A directional antenna capable of broadcasting the signal is provided.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an array control member 20 used to control an antenna panel or member 22 according to the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the RF signal used is either TDD (time division duplex) or CSMA (carrier sense multiple access). Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 2, other methods can be used with the array control member 20. The antenna member 22 is connected to a reception side low noise amplifier (LNA) 26 and a transmission side output amplifier (PA) 28 via a switch 24. The LNA 26 and PA 28 can be separate low-cost devices or can be integrated into an integrated circuit. The array control member 20 further includes an I / Q down converter 30 and an I / Q up converter 32 for I / Q baseband signals. The RF data path associated with the array control member 20 is illustrated in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, when a signal is received by the antenna member 22, the signal is relayed to the LNA 26 via the switch 24. Then, the LNA 26 outputs the signal to the I / Q down converter 30. Next, the output from the I / Q down converter 30 is transferred to the demodulator 36 to generate a corresponding packet. When the packet is transmitted, the packet is transferred to the modulation device 38. The output from modulator 38 is then provided to I / Q upconverter 32. The output from the I / Q upconverter 32 is transferred to the PA 28. Next, the output from the PA 28 is provided to the antenna member 22 via the switch 24 for transmission. In one embodiment, orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is used as the modulation scheme. Based on the disclosure and teaching provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other schemes available.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the signals “reference” and “offset” are used to control a divider PLL (phase locked loop) 34, which in turn is the I / Q down and upconverters 30, 32. To control. These “reference” and “offset” signals control the array control member 20 so that the antenna member 22 can be part of the array antenna to provide the desired directional beam. In one embodiment, these signals are generated from a digital-to-analog converter that is built into the same integrated circuit as the array control member 20. Alternatively, the digital-analog converter may be external to the integrated circuit including the array control member 20.

  In one embodiment, the antenna member 22 is configured such that the antenna member 22 can transmit or receive the packet itself. The demodulator 36 and the modulator 38 can be incorporated in an integrated circuit including the array control member 20. Alternatively, they can be external to the integrated circuit.

  The array control member 20 can generate data related to link quality and received power / signal strength. Furthermore, the array control member 20 can also control the FRU transmission output. In one embodiment where TDD or CSMA is used, the array control member 20 allows the FRU to determine whether other FRUs are located in the vicinity. It is also possible to estimate the direction of all transmissions by examining the received power or signal quality from the antenna member 22. Data related to the transmission direction can be added to the end of the received data packet when the packet is transferred by the array control member 20 to other components of the FRU.

  As mentioned above, one of the operational aspects of the FRU is its ability to route or relay traffic through the network formed by the FRU. In one embodiment, in order to reduce the impact on the central processing unit used in the MRU and make the relay function more efficient, at least the relay function is within one or more ASICs (application specific integrated circuits). Done.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an antenna routing member in the present invention. In one embodiment, the antenna routing member 40 is implemented in an ASIC. This antenna routing member 40 is used to handle the traffic relay function. As shown in FIG. 4, the antenna routing member 40 interacts with the array control member 20 to perform a packet routing function. The antenna routing member 40 receives an input from the array control member 20. The inputs provided by the array control member 20 include, for example, raw packet data, direction data, and received output information. This input provided by the array control member 20 or allows the antenna routing member 40 to perform various other functions including, for example, determining the signal quality and signal strength of the received signal.

  In one embodiment, each packet sent across the network via the FRU includes a header and payload data. Preferably, the payload data is encrypted. This encryption is performed by its originating entity, ie another MRU or FRU. The key used to encrypt the payload data can vary depending on the reception and transmission paths. As shown in FIG. 4, the antenna routing member 40 is configured to encrypt and decrypt received and transmitted packets.

  The header contains the destination and source address in clear text. However, these addresses may not be actual MRU or FRU addresses because proxies may be used. The header further includes information regarding the expected QoS for the packet. Other QoS configurations are possible using flow control or other methods. In addition, the header may also contain other information that can be used to assist in efficient routing of the packet, including, for example, TTL (Time To Live) information or sequence numbers. Using the information provided in the header, the antenna routing member 40 can check the validity of the packet and discard the corrupted packet, thereby reducing resource waste.

  The antenna routing member 40 includes a memory used to store a target routing table for the FRU. Each routing table includes information regarding routing to the address location and information regarding the direction from which the transmission was received. When an incoming packet is received and confirmed, the packet is checked against information stored in the routing table. In one embodiment, this check is performed using content addressable memory (CAM) indexed by header information. It should be understood that other options for performing this check are also available. The CAM includes information on destination, QoS, TTL, and the like. By using CAM, the antenna routing member 40 can determine the next port to route the packet. If it is determined that the packet does not need to be routed further, ie, the FRU that received the packet is the final destination, the packet is sent to the decryption module and the FRU for further processing. Is transferred to the lower layer. If it is determined that the packet is to be forwarded to another entity, the packet is provided with additional settings that provide settings for the corresponding array control member 20 that has QoS and queuing information for forwarding. Information is added. In one embodiment, the FRU maintains a plurality of queues that provide differentiated levels of QoS for packet transmission.

  If a data packet (not a control packet) is received from the FRU, the payload data is first encrypted. Next, an appropriate route for the packet is determined and the packet is sent to the routing queue for transmission.

  When a packet is sent for transmission, the additional bits affixed to the end of the packet are stripped and used in the corresponding array control member 20 to set control data on the antenna member. This provides directionality to the transmitted data and indicates other information such as the output level from the FRU, for example.

  Control of the antenna routing member 40 is provided by a control interface in the FRU. This control interface provides encryption information for encoding and decoding packet data. This control interface also allows the FRU to insert control information into the data stream as well as the transmitted data packets. The control information includes, for example, FRU ID, name, location, route broadcast, availability, congestion level, cache resource, network management and configuration data, and synchronization data. Preferably, the control packet is short and has the highest priority.

  Furthermore, if the output of the FRU decreases for any reason, the antenna routing member 40 autonomously detects this output loss, and the neighboring FRU and MRU immediately detect the loss as a node of this FRU. Send a "disconnect" message to the network so that The reconnection to the network is performed under the control of FRU.

  In one embodiment, the array antenna is implemented as a silicon or GaAs integrated circuit used in a FRU. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other means and / or methods for implementing array antennas in the present invention.

  The antenna member 22, the array control member 20, and the antenna routing member 40 can be provided in various arrangements within the FRU. 5A and 5B illustrate two example configurations. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, one array control member 20 is connected to one antenna member 22. The plurality of array control members 20 are connected to one antenna routing member 40. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 5B, one array control member 20 is connected to a plurality of antenna members 22 via switches (not switches). The switch allows one antenna member 22 to be connected to the array control member 20 at the same time. The array control member 20 is connected to the antenna routing member 40.

  In one embodiment, the network further allows the wireless node to determine the direction of the source or transmitting node relative to itself. FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a wireless node in a network according to the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, the wireless node 50 has an antenna array 52 consisting of six switched panel antennas 54-64 controlled by an antenna switch 66. In this embodiment, six antennas 54-64 are used, but fewer or more antennas can be used. The panel antennas 54-64 are linked to a wireless transceiver 68. The wireless transceiver 68 is linked to the controller 70. The controller 70 can be a microprocessor or ASIC mounted on the transceiver 68. The controller 70 switches the antennas 54-64 in the antenna array 52 via the transceiver 68 and the antenna switch 66.

  Before the wireless node 50 can be used to measure the direction of the transmitting node, the antenna array 52 is first calibrated. Specifically, each antenna 54-64 in the antenna array 52 is calibrated to provide calibration data. This calibration process involves measuring antenna gain at various angles of azimuth. Thereby, a beam pattern related to the angle and the antenna gain is obtained. FIG. 7 is an example of a table showing the measurements made during this calibration process. As shown in FIG. 7, measurements are taken every 5 degrees. Alternatively, these measurements can be taken every degree or in any other suitable angular increment. Optionally, additional measurements can be inserted as needed during use. These measurements are then stored in a table in the memory of the wireless node for subsequent use, as described below. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to obtain appropriate measurements and store them. From these tables, a “delta table” is created for each antenna panel and its adjacent panels, which is obtained by subtracting the main antenna panel gain data from the left or right adjacent pattern for each of the matching angles. Generated. For example, the 0 degree gain of the main antenna panel corresponds to the gain of 60 degrees on the left adjacent panel, and similarly the 300 degree gain corresponds to the 0 degree gain of the right adjacent panel. Since the antenna array 52 is symmetrical, only two delta tables, i.e., left and right adjacent panels, need to be stored. These tables are then used in the following manner.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a number of wireless nodes in the network and their projected antenna beam patterns. Wireless node 72 is the source or transmitting node, and wireless node 74 is the destination or receiving node. The wireless node 76 is another node used to provide another possible reference point. In this example, the transmitting node 72 transmits the signal to the receiving node 74 at a known frequency. In this simplest form, the transmitted signal is a reflection, or is there multipath reception to further improve the performance of wireless node 72 in providing better directional resolution? Contains known repeating patterns that can be used to determine whether or not. Optionally, the transmitting node 72 also transmits information about the latitude and longitude of the RF output used for signal transmission. In addition, the node 72 can also measure the received bit error rate to determine the quality of the received signal.

  To determine the direction of the transmitting node 72, the receiving node 74 commands the antenna array 52 to make a round through all the antenna panels 54-64 using the antenna switch 66. Next, data from each antenna panel 54-64 is obtained. FIG. 9 is an example of a table including data regarding the received signal strength of each of the antenna panels 54-64. As will be described in detail later, the obtained data is used in connection with the calibration measurements to determine the orientation of the transmitting node 72 relative to the receiving node 74.

  However, before the acquired data from the various antenna panels 54-64 is used to determine the direction of the transmitting node 72, the receiving node 74 first determines that the acquired data is actually Check if it can be used for the purpose. For example, if it is determined that a reading from an antenna panel is not a direct path to the transmitting node 72, the reading from the antenna panel can be excluded from further consideration. In another example, the antenna panel that is most directly facing the transmitting node 72 can be blocked, in which case the adjacent antennas may show a high result at first glance, which May indicate that it cannot be used for direction determination. Other arrangements for removing false or misleading readings obtained by the receiving node 74 could also be used. As a result, based on the disclosure and teaching provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to confirm the data obtained in the present invention.

  After the obtained data is confirmed, the wireless node 74 performs the following analysis to determine the direction of the transmitting node 72. First, from the obtained data, the wireless node 74 determines which of the antenna panels 54-64 in the antenna array 52 receives the signal with the maximum reception power. Since direction information is available for each of these antenna panels 54-64, once the panel receiving the signal with the maximum received output is determined, the direction of the transmitting node 72 can be determined.

  The method used by the receiving antenna array 52 to determine the direction of the transmitting node 72 at the FRU or receiving node 74 is illustrated by the pseudo code illustrated in Table 1 below. Use numbered lines to describe the pseudocode in Table 1.

  The method is illustrated as pseudo code. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the method can be implemented in any modern programming language and / or digital hardware. In Table 1, rows 1-3 are used for raw reading filtering. Its purpose is to select the nearest three panel readings. Because they provide the most accurate orientation options. This method calculates an output difference between the antenna panel having the maximum received signal strength and the left and right adjacent panels. If there are two antenna panels reporting the same maximum signal strength, the minimum delta is selected for the next step. In some embodiments, it should be specified that the maximum output reading has upper and lower limits due to inherent quantization errors in the read data of the digital or analog converter. Rows 4-6 set data for the next step on the selected antenna panel. Lines 7-12 are used to retrieve pre-stored azimuth delta output gain data to find a match on the calculated output difference generated in lines 1-3. In one embodiment, this search is limited to 60 degrees. This not only speeds up the search, but more importantly, it represents the maximum overlap of the two antenna panels (the right neighbor and the “maximum gain antenna”). is there. However, it is specified that the search angle can be changed in actual use. The searched angle can vary depending on the number of antenna panels in the antenna array. It is also specified that no matching may be found, meaning no result.

  Lines 13-18 simply repeat the above process for the left adjacent panel. This process generates the angle of incidence as the most likely for the location of the transmitting node 72. Lines 19-20 calculate the final result using the angle result generated by the previous line. Line 19 calculates the “minimum angle” between the two generated results. Row 20 then divides this by 2 and adds or subtracts it to the angle of the antenna panel with the maximum received signal strength to obtain the final angle of incidence on the transmitting node 72. In this example, the use of the “minimum angle” found by the above-described search eliminates the case where no solution is found in any of these searches. If no solution is found by any search, the angle defaults to the angle of the antenna panel with the maximum received signal strength. Once the angle is selected, the delta is then the average of the two angles. This delta is then used to obtain an offset from the main antenna panel.

  When the above-described analysis is completed, the receiving node 74 can obtain information regarding the direction from the transmitting node 72 with respect to itself. This information can then be used in conjunction with information from another node, eg, node 76, in triangulation analysis to determine the relative position of the receiving node 74. If the latitude and longitude information from the sending node 72 is known to the receiving node 74, the receiving node 74 calculates a sufficiently accurate location that can be used to determine its location in the network. It is possible. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand how to use triangulation analysis and longitude or latitude information in the present invention to determine the optimal route in the network.

  Optionally, in another embodiment, the receiving node 74 performs a number of additional analyzes or functions to further improve the accuracy of direction determination for the transmitting node 72. Such additional analysis or function includes, for example, analysis performed to eliminate reflections. By monitoring the delay of data arriving at each antenna, the receiving node 74 can determine which signal was reflected before it arrived at the antenna. By removing the data due to reflection and correcting the data obtained to provide a more accurate output reading, the receiving node 74 can increase the accuracy of direction determination for the transmitting node 72.

  Another additional analysis or function that can be performed by the receiving node 74 includes power determination. If the transmitting node 72 indicates the RF power it is using to transmit a signal, the receiving node 74 may use the RF model to roughly predict the distance to the transmitting node 72. it can. This distance can be averaged over the various antennas 54-64 to provide a more accurate resolution with respect to distance. Furthermore, if a large number of other nodes are also monitored, the receiving node 74 can be more accurately located. This is especially true when there is no direct path between the two nodes.

  Yet another additional analysis or function that can be performed by the receiving node 74 includes analysis of GPS information. The sending node 72 can comprise a GSP receiver that provides accurate longitude and latitude information. This information can be transmitted along with other signals to the receiving node 74 by the transmitting node 72. If there are transmitter nodes with sufficient GPS function in the network, transfer GSP information to various nodes and all non-GPS nodes determine their respective longitude / latitude information Can be possible.

  It should be noted that the above description regarding direction determination by the wireless node applies to both fixed and mobile nodes. For example, both the MRU and FRU described above can determine the direction in the present invention.

  It will be appreciated that the present invention can be implemented in a modular, distributed or integrated manner as control logic using software, hardware, or a combination of both. Based on the disclosure and teaching provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other aspects and / or methods for practicing the present invention.

  Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, these embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the present invention. For example, although the system has been described primarily with respect to radio frequency transmission, any type of communication link that allows mobile transceivers can be used. For example, infrared or other portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, voice or other communication links can be used. Fixed and mobile units can be configured with a wide variety of processing capabilities, or with very minimal capability, or no processing capability. For example, a device can simply act as a repeater to send data to another device.

  It should be noted that the specific examples and examples described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and various modifications or alterations in view of them will be suggested to those skilled in the art, and these are also within the spirit of the present application. And within the scope of the appended claims. All of the publications, patents and patent applications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

A simplified block diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present invention. Schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an array control member used to control an antenna member according to the present invention. Schematic block diagram illustrating the data path associated with the array control member illustrated in FIG. Schematic block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an antenna routing member according to the present invention. Schematic block diagram illustrating various configurations of the array control member and antenna routing member according to the present invention. Schematic block diagram illustrating various configurations of the array control member and antenna routing member according to the present invention. Schematic block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a wireless node in a network according to the present invention. Table showing measured values taken during the calibration process according to the invention Schematic block diagram showing a number of wireless nodes in a network Table showing data obtained from various antennas in a wireless node according to the invention

Claims (45)

An array antenna comprising:
A plurality of antenna panels, each configured to transmit and receive signals,
Each array control member is configured to be connected to at least one antenna panel or any one of the plurality of antenna panels via a switch, and further transmits the transmitted signal and the received signal. One or more array control members configured to process, and an antenna routing member configured to communicate with the one or more array control members, wherein the antenna routing member further includes the receiving The packet generated based on the transmitted signal is routed and the packet to be transmitted is transferred.   2. The array antenna according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of antenna panels are arranged in a hexagonal shape.   A fixed wireless unit incorporating the array antenna according to claim 1.   2. The array antenna of claim 1, wherein two or more of the plurality of antenna panels can be used simultaneously to transmit each signal. The array antenna of claim 1, wherein at least one of the array control members comprises:
A switch connected to the antenna panel,
A low noise amplifier connected to the switch for receiving the received signal from the antenna panel and generating an output;
An I / Q downconverter configured to receive the output from the low noise amplifier and generate a first output and a second output;
A demodulator configured to receive the first and second outputs from the I / Q downconverter and generate a received packet;
A modulator configured to receive a packet to be transmitted and generate a first output and a second output based on the packet to be transmitted;
An I / Q upconverter configured to receive the first and second outputs from the modulator to generate an output, and configured to receive the output from the I / Q converter and generate an output An output amplifier, the output amplifier is further connected to the switch and configured to transfer its output to the antenna panel for transmission;
Here, the switch is controlled by logic, and the antenna panel is either the low noise amplifier or the output amplifier depending on whether a signal is received or transmitted. Connect to. 6. The array antenna of claim 5, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to generate the packet to be transmitted and forward it to the one or more array control members for transmission. ,
Here, the antenna routing member further includes a routing table having routing information, and the antenna routing member further receives the received packet from the at least one array control member, and performs routing in the routing table. Based on the information, it is configured to forward the received packet. 6. The array antenna according to claim 5, wherein the received packet includes header information and payload information, and the header information includes information related to quality of service of the received packet.   An integrated circuit comprising the one or more array control members according to claim 1 and the antenna routing member.   The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna routing member further checks the validity of the packets generated based on the received signal before the packets are further routed. It is configured. 2. The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the one or more array control members are assigned respective transmission priorities, and the antenna routing member is further based on a quality of service criterion associated with each packet. The packet to be transmitted is configured to be transferred to the one or more array control members.   2. The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to issue a “disconnect” message when the output of the array antenna is reduced.   The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal quality of the received signal.   The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal strength of the received signal.   The array antenna of claim 1, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to provide encryption and decryption capabilities for use with the transmitted signal and the received signal.   2. The array antenna according to claim 1, wherein the array antenna is formed of a parasitic antenna array capable of directing the radio beam in two or more directions. A fixed wireless unit having an array antenna, the array antenna having:
A plurality of antenna panels, each configured to transmit and receive signals,
Each array control member is connected to one or more antenna panels and is further configured to process the transmitted signal and the received signal; and An antenna routing member configured to communicate with a plurality of array control members, wherein the antenna routing member further routes packets generated based on the received signal and forwards packets to be transmitted Is configured to do.   17. The array antenna according to claim 16, wherein the plurality of antenna panels are arranged in a hexagonal shape.   17. The array antenna according to claim 16, wherein the one or more array control members are further connected to one of the plurality of antenna panels via a switch.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein two or more of the plurality of antenna panels can be activated to transmit each signal. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein at least one of the array control members comprises:
A switch connected to the antenna panel,
A low noise amplifier connected to the switch for receiving the received signal from the antenna panel and generating an output;
An I / Q downconverter configured to receive the output from the low noise amplifier and generate a first output and a second output;
A demodulator configured to receive the first and second outputs from the I / Q downconverter and generate a received packet;
A modulator configured to receive a packet to be transmitted and generate a first output and a second output based on the packet to be transmitted;
An I / Q upconverter configured to receive the first and second outputs from the modulator and generate an output, and configured to receive the output from the I / Q converter and generate an output An output amplifier, the output amplifier is further connected to the switch and configured to transfer its output to the antenna panel for transmission;
Here, the switch is controlled by logic, and the antenna panel is either the low noise amplifier or the output amplifier depending on whether a signal is received or transmitted. Connect to. 21. The array antenna of claim 20, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to generate the packet to be transmitted and forward it to the one or more array control members for transmission. ,
Here, the antenna routing member further includes a routing table having routing information, and the antenna routing member further receives the received packet from the at least one array control member, and routing information in the routing table. Is configured to forward the received packet. 21. The array antenna according to claim 20, wherein the received packet includes header information and payload information, and the header information includes information related to quality of service of the received packet.   An integrated circuit comprising the one or more array control members according to claim 16 and the antenna routing member.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the antenna routing member further checks the validity of the packets generated based on the received signal before these packets are further routed. It is configured. 17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the one or more array control members are assigned respective transmission priorities, and the antenna routing member is further based on a quality of service criterion associated with each packet. The packet to be transmitted is configured to be transferred to the one or more array control members.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to issue a “disconnect” message when the output of the array antenna is reduced.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal quality of the received signal.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal strength of the received signal.   17. The array antenna of claim 16, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to provide encryption and decryption capabilities for use with the transmitted signal and the received signal.   17. The array antenna according to claim 16, wherein the array antenna is formed from a parasitic antenna array capable of directing the radio beam in two or more directions. An array antenna comprising:
A plurality of antenna panels, each configured to transmit and receive signals,
An array control member configured to connect to one or more of the plurality of antenna panels via a switch, and further configured to process the transmitted signal and the received signal, and the array control An antenna routing member configured to communicate with a member, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to route a packet generated based on the received signal and forward a packet to be transmitted Has been.   32. The array antenna according to claim 31, wherein the plurality of antenna panels are arranged in a hexagonal shape.   A fixed wireless unit incorporating the array antenna of claim 31.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein two or more of the plurality of antenna panels can be activated to transmit each signal. 32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the array control member comprises:
A switch connected to one of the plurality of antenna panels;
A low noise amplifier connected to the switch for receiving the received signal from one of the plurality of antenna panels and generating an output;
An I / Q downconverter configured to receive the output from the low noise amplifier and generate a first output and a second output;
A demodulator configured to receive the first and second outputs from the I / Q downconverter and generate a received packet;
A modulator configured to receive a packet to be transmitted and generate a first output and a second output based on the packet to be transmitted;
An I / Q upconverter configured to receive the first and second outputs from the modulator and generate an output, and configured to receive the output from the I / Q converter and generate an output An output amplifier, the output amplifier further connected to the switch and configured to transfer its output to one of the plurality of antenna panels for transmission;
Here, the switch is controlled by logic, and depending on whether a signal is received or transmitted, one of the plurality of antenna panels is connected to the low noise amplifier or the Connect to one of the output amplifiers. 36. The array antenna of claim 35, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to generate the packet to be transmitted and forward it to the array control member for its transmission;
Here, the antenna routing member further includes a routing table having routing information, and the antenna routing member further receives the received packet from the array control member, and based on the routing information in the routing table. , Configured to forward the received packet. 36. The array antenna according to claim 35, wherein the received packet includes header information and payload information, and the header information includes information related to quality of service of the received packet.   32. An integrated circuit comprising the array control member according to claim 31 and the antenna routing member.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the antenna routing member further checks the validity of the packets generated based on the received signal before these packets are further routed. It is configured. 32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein each of the plurality of antenna panels is assigned a transmission priority.
The antenna routing member is further configured to forward the packet to be transmitted to the array control member, and the array control member is further transmitted based on a quality of service criterion associated with each packet. The packet to be transmitted is configured to be transferred to the plurality of antenna panels.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to issue a “disconnect” message when the output of the array antenna is reduced.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal quality of the received signal.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to determine a signal strength of the received signal.   32. The array antenna of claim 31, wherein the antenna routing member is further configured to provide encryption and decryption capabilities for use with the transmitted signal and the received signal.   32. The array antenna according to claim 31, wherein the array antenna is formed of a parasitic antenna array capable of directing the radio beam in two or more directions.

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