JP2001230691A - Equipment and method for radio communication, receiver and transmitter - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide radio communications equipment, capable of providing a wireless function, while using optimal hardware at all times. SOLUTION: This equipment is provided with a function distributing part 17 for selecting hardware, capable of providing certain specified wireless functions on the basis of wireless functions, specifications and limiting conditions described in an application program 1 and afterwards changing the hardware adaptively to a communication environment, which is to time sequentially changes and a program generating part 16 for generating and reporting a program for hardware and a control command required for providing the specified wireless functions, and the selected hardware executes the generated program and control command, so that the wireless functions can be realized.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a radio communication apparatus which realizes a radio function in accordance with the contents of software read out, and more particularly to a radio communication apparatus adaptable to a time-series change in a communication environment. , A wireless communication method, a receiver and a transmitter.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional wireless communication apparatus will be described below. As a wireless communication device capable of realizing a wireless function in accordance with the contents of software, for example, the Proceedings of the IEICE General Conference 1999, B-579 (Hiroshi Yoshida et al., 3)
There is a wireless device (hereinafter, referred to as a wireless communication device) described in a famous book "Proposal on Software Execution Mode in Software Defined Radio". FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional wireless communication device described in the proceedings of the IEICE General Conference.

In FIG. 14, reference numeral 101 denotes an application program (Application), reference numeral 102 denotes a library, reference numeral 103 denotes an operating system (O / S), and reference numeral 104 denotes a device driver (Device) corresponding to various hardware. Driver) and 1
05 is a CPU, 106 is an amplifier (Amp.),
107 is a mixer (Mixer), 108 is a synthesizer (Synth), 109 is a digital / analog converter (DAC), 110 is an analog / digital converter (ADC), 111 is an ASIC, 112
Is an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Allay), 113 is a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), and 114 is an I / O.

The application program 101, which is software for implementing the wireless function of the wireless communication device configured as described above, for example, is a program describing the operation of the wireless communication device. The specification is described, and there is no description that depends on hardware and software. Therefore, for example, specifications such as a desired reception frequency and transmission power are described in the application program 101, and instructions for hardware for realizing the specifications are written in software (library 102, O / S 103, device driver 104) described later. ) Is performed.

[0005] Further, the library 102 includes an HDL (Hardware Descr.) Of the FPGA 112 for realizing wireless communication.
iption Language) program, each device (amplifier 1)
06, mixer 107, synthesizer 108, DAC10
9, ADC 110, ASIC 111, I / O 114), commands for controlling individual functions, and DSP 1
It is used to store frequently used items such as the program 13 and the program of the CPU 105 in advance. Further, the library 102 absorbs the difference between the individual hardware and the application program 10.
Also, it has a function of distributing an instruction for realizing the content of item 1 to each device.

[0006] The O / S 103 is an operation system for the CPU 105, and the device driver 104 is software for controlling the operation of each device (hardware).

Here, the operation of the conventional wireless communication apparatus configured as described above will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an execution form of the application program 101. First, in the application program 101, when compiling or executing the program, the library 1
02. The above-described commands and programs are described in the library 102 in advance. At this time, the application program 101 includes “Library 10
2, which program or command to use "is described, and accordingly, the program or command is read.

The program or command read from the library 102 in this manner is stored in the library 10
2 and distributed to each device (105-114), downloaded, and then executed. Thereby, wireless communication can be realized. Here, since the device driver 104 executes the control of the hardware,
The application program 101 does not directly control (command) each device. That is, the application program 101 can be used as a versatile program independent of hardware.

The application program 101
Is changed and the programs and commands stored in the library 102 become insufficient, the operation related to wireless communication can be completed by downloading software from the outside.

Next, the operation of the library 102 for distributing programs and commands to respective devices based on the contents of the application program 101 will be described in more detail with reference to specific examples. Here, a case where the function of a digital filter is realized will be described as a specific example. Also, here, regarding the function of the digital filter, for example, the FPGA 112 and the DSP
113 can be realized with two types of devices.
When a digital filter is realized using the PGA 112, high-speed operation is possible. When a digital filter is realized using the other DSP 113, the FPGA 11 is used.
It is assumed that the operation is slower than 2.

In such a case, in the library 102,
According to the contents of the application program 101, a device that realizes the function of the digital filter is selected. That is, the application program 101
If there is a description that realizes this function in the DSP 113, even if a high-speed operation is desired,
As described, the DSP 113 that operates at a low speed is selected.

At this time, in the library 102, a program or a command to be executed on the selected device is
Check if it exists inside. For example, if programs or commands for realizing the function of the digital filter are insufficient, the library 102
Then, a necessary program or command is downloaded from the application program 101 or from the outside, and the program or command is distributed to the selected device. Thereby, a digital filter can be realized by the device described in the application program 101.

Further, a digital communication system (hereinafter referred to as a radio communication device) that can adapt to changes in transmission line characteristics over time, that is, a communication system optimal for changes in transmission line characteristics over time. As a wireless communication device that can be dynamically selected, for example, there is a wireless communication device described in JP-A-11-220413. FIG. 16 shows this Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-2.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a conventional wireless communication device described in 20413.

In FIG. 16, reference numeral 301 denotes an information source; 328, a transmission chain including a source encoder 302, a channel encoder 303, and a digital modulator 304; 305, a channel; and 324, a system performance measurement / optimization. 309 is an information sink, 340 is programming logic, and 330 is an external control unit.

In the wireless communication apparatus configured as described above, the communication method is selected by configuring the digital signal processing algorithm with a programmable device and reprogramming the programmable device. A programmable device is implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD). However, PLD is a general expression for a family of programmable logic devices, which include programmable array logic (PAL), complex PLD (CPLD), field programmable gate array (FPGA), and the like. .

Here, the operation of the wireless communication apparatus described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-220413 will be described. The purpose of this wireless communication device is to transmit the information content of the information source 301 to a recipient information sink 309 via a given medium and a channel 305. First, the information source 301 sends the information content to the transmission chain 328. Then, in the transmission chain 328, first, the source encoder 302 receiving the information generates information bits, and then the channel encoder 303 converts the information bits into channel symbols, that is, channel coded bits. Then, the channel coded bits received by the digital modulator 304 are converted into a digitally modulated signal 320. Note that the digital modulator 304 can use various modulation methods such as a combination of amplitude, frequency, and phase modulation.

The channel 305 includes a circuit for converting the frequency of the digitally modulated signal 320 into an RF carrier frequency, and transmitting the obtained modulated RF carrier via a wireless communication channel. It is to be noted that this radio communication channel may deteriorate the digitally modulated signal 320, and thus, the channel 305 outputs a demodulated signal. In FIG. 16, the output signal is demodulated using heterodyne detection to the intermediate frequency, and the output signal has two components,
That is, it is composed of an in-phase and quadrature component (I & Q 321 shown).

Thereafter, the I output from channel 305
& Q 321 is input to the reception chain 324. In the receiving chain 324, first, the digital demodulator 306 generates a channel symbol based on the I & Q 321. Next, the channel decoder 307 decodes the channel symbol to generate information bits. An original information signal is generated based on the information bit received by the information sink 308, and the generated information signal is notified to the information sink 309.

In FIG. 16, a system performance measurement / optimization unit 310 is arranged in a reception chain 324, and a channel 305, a digital demodulator 3
06, the channel decoder 307 and the source decoder 308 are monitored, and when the transmission path characteristics change, each part of the transmission chain 328 and the reception chain 32
From among the parts of FIG. 4, a part to be dynamically reprogrammed is determined. If reprogramming becomes necessary, the system performance measurement / optimization unit 310 sends a reprogramming message for the programmable device to the programming logic 340.

However, the reprogramming message is
It is also possible from the external control unit 330. Also, in the case where reprogramming of the programmable device inside the communication partner becomes necessary during two-way communication, the system performance measurement / optimization unit 310 transmits a message 311 to the transmission chain 328, thereby Instruct programming.

As described above, in the wireless communication apparatus described in JP-A-11-220413, by reprogramming at least one programmable device, for example, it is possible to dynamically reselect a communication method.

[0022]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION However,
In the conventional wireless communication device described in the proceedings of the IEICE General Conference, the application program 1
01 is a program or command to realize the contents of
There is a problem in that programs and commands cannot be distributed to the optimal device in accordance with the communication environment that changes in a time-series manner, since the program and the command are allocated to each device in advance.

In the conventional wireless communication apparatus, since the physical connection order of the individual devices is fixed, the processing performed by a certain device is replaced with a device at a completely different physical connection position. On the Internet, or "execute jointly by multiple devices at physically distant connections". Therefore, when a certain device becomes inoperable due to failure or defect,
"Improvement of reliability" by letting other devices execute the processing that was being executed by the device, and "Improvement of the communication environment that changes over time" by assigning the processing being executed to multiple devices. Adaptation cannot be realized.

In the conventional wireless communication apparatus described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-220413, changes in the communication environment other than the transmission path characteristics are not considered. Specifically, for example, a change in the communication environment due to a decrease in battery capacity or a failure in each device can be considered, but the conventional wireless communication device cannot cope with such a change in the communication environment other than the transmission path characteristics. There was a problem.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and by providing a configuration that can dynamically respond to a communication environment that changes in a time series, communication can always be performed in an optimal state. It is an object to obtain a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method.

[0026]

Means for Solving the Problems To solve the above-mentioned problems,
In order to achieve the object, in the wireless communication device according to the present invention, the hardware selected based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in the application program, the program stored in the library and By executing the control command, the wireless function is realized, and further, based on the content described in the application program, hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function is selected, and then, in a time-series manner. Selection / change means for changing the hardware adaptively to a changing communication environment (function distribution unit 1 according to an embodiment described later)
7), and the hardware program and control command required to realize the specific wireless function are generated based on the contents of the library or the contents of software provided from the outside, and Generating / notifying means (corresponding to the program generating unit 16) for notifying the hardware.

In the wireless communication apparatus according to the next invention, a data bus (corresponding to the data bus 31) or a hardware bus capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program is provided. The connection is achieved by another means for realizing information transmission.

The wireless communication apparatus according to the next invention further comprises external control means (corresponding to an external control unit 18) capable of controlling the selection / change means from outside the apparatus.
The selecting / changing unit selects hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on contents described in the application program and constraints given by the external control unit. The present invention is characterized in that the hardware is adaptively changed for a communication environment that changes dynamically.

The wireless communication apparatus according to the next invention further comprises an evaluation means (corresponding to the evaluation section 19) for evaluating the external and internal communication environment state of the time-varying device, and The changing means selects hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the contents described in the application program, the constraints given by the external control means, and the evaluation result by the evaluating means. After that, the hardware is adaptively changed to a communication environment that changes in a time series.

The wireless communication apparatus according to the next invention further comprises an evaluation means (corresponding to the evaluation section 19) for evaluating the external and internal communication environment state of the time-varying device, and The / change means selects hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the contents described in the application program and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, and thereafter, the communication which changes in time series It is characterized in that the hardware is changed adaptively to the environment.

[0031] In the wireless communication method according to the next invention, the hardware selected based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in the application program executes the program and control commands stored in the library. By executing, to realize the wireless function,
A selection step of selecting hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function based on the content described in the application program; and a step of selecting the hardware based on the content of the library or software provided from outside. A generation / notification step of generating a program and a control command for the hardware necessary to realize the wireless function of the above, and notifying the hardware of the program and a control command; And a change step of adaptively changing the hardware.

[0032] The wireless communication method according to the next invention further includes an external control step of changing the selected hardware from outside of the apparatus. Based on the described contents and the constraints given externally in the external control step, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and in the changing step, The hardware is changed adaptively to a changing communication environment, based on the contents described in the application program and the constraint conditions externally given in the external control step.

[0033] The wireless communication method according to the next invention further includes an evaluation step of evaluating the external and internal communication environment state of the device which changes in time series. Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the content described in the application program, the constraint condition externally applied in the external control step, and the evaluation result in the evaluation step, In the step, the contents described in the application program, the constraints given externally in the external control step, and the evaluation result by the evaluation step, adaptively to the communication environment that changes in time series The hardware is changed based on the following.

In the receiver according to the next invention, the hardware selected based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in the application program executes the program and the control command stored in the library. By doing so, based on the contents described in the application program, the wireless function is realized, and hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function is selected. To adaptively change the hardware
Generating a hardware program and a control command necessary for realizing the specific wireless function based on a change unit and the contents of the library or the contents of software provided from outside; And a generating / notifying means for notifying the user.

In the receiver according to the next invention, there is further provided a data bus or information for realizing information transmission between hardware capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program. It is characterized in that connection is made by means of (1).

The receiver according to the next invention further comprises external control means capable of controlling the selection / change means from outside the receiver, wherein the selection / change means is described in the application program. Based on the contents and the constraints given by the external control means, based on the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, then, for a communication environment that changes in time series,
It is characterized in that the hardware is adaptively changed.

The receiver according to the next invention further comprises an evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside of the receiver which changes in time series, wherein the selection / change means includes the application program. Based on the contents described in the program, the constraints given by the external control means, and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, in time series Adaptive to the changing communication environment,
It is characterized in that the hardware is changed.

The receiver according to the next invention further comprises evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state external and internal to the receiver which changes in time series, wherein the selecting / changing means comprises the application Based on the contents described in the program and the evaluation result by the evaluation unit, based on the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, thereafter, for a communication environment that changes in time series,
It is characterized in that the hardware is adaptively changed.

In the transmitter according to the next invention, the hardware selected based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in the application program executes the program and the control command stored in the library. By doing so, based on the contents described in the application program, the wireless function is realized, and hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function is selected. To adaptively change the hardware
Generating a hardware program and a control command necessary for realizing the specific wireless function based on a change unit and the contents of the library or the contents of software provided from outside; And a generating / notifying means for notifying the user.

In the transmitter according to the next invention, there is further provided a data bus or information for realizing information transmission between hardware capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program. It is characterized in that connection is made by means of (1).

The transmitter according to the next invention further comprises external control means for controlling the selection / change means from outside the transmitter, and the selection / change means is described in the application program. Based on the contents and the constraints given by the external control means, based on the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, then, for a communication environment that changes in time series,
It is characterized in that the hardware is adaptively changed.

The transmitter according to the next invention further comprises evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state external and internal to the transmitter which changes in time series. Based on the contents described in the program, the constraints given by the external control means, and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, in time series Adaptive to the changing communication environment,
It is characterized in that the hardware is changed.

The transmitter according to the next invention further comprises evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state external and internal to the transmitter which changes in time series, wherein the selection / change means includes the application program. Based on the contents described in the program and the evaluation result by the evaluation unit, based on the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, thereafter, for a communication environment that changes in time series,
It is characterized in that the hardware is adaptively changed.

[0044]

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of a radio communication apparatus and a radio communication method according to the present invention. The present invention is not limited by the embodiment.

Embodiment 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a wireless communication device according to the present invention. In FIG. 1, 1 is an application program (Application) corresponding to a library management function described later, 2 is a library (Library) corresponding to a library management function described later, and 3 is an operating system (O / S). , 4
Is a device driver (Devi
ce Driver), 5 is a CPU, and 6 is an amplifier (A
mp.), 7 is a mixer (Mixer), 8 is a synthesizer (Synth), 9 is a digital / analog converter (DAC), 10 is an analog / digital converter (ADC), 11 is ASIC, 12 is FP
GA (Field Programmable Gate Allay)
Is a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), 14 is an I / O, and 15 is a library management unit (Library Mana) that manages programs and control commands (including previously downloaded ones) implemented in the library 2.
17 is a function distribution unit that distributes wireless functions to individual hardware (devices).
Reference numeral 6 denotes a program generator (Program Generator) that generates a program and a command for each hardware according to the distributed functions.

The application program 1, which is software for realizing the wireless function of the wireless communication device configured as described above, for example, is a program describing the operation of the wireless communication device. , Specifications, and definitions and constraints related to the realization of wireless functions, and there is no description that depends on hardware and software. Therefore, in the application program 1, for example, specifications such as a desired reception frequency and transmission power are described, and instructions for hardware for realizing the specifications are described in software (library 2, O / S 3, device driver 4) described later. ) Is performed.

The constraint conditions described in the application program 1 include, for example, an upper limit of power consumption and an upper limit of digital signal processing time for realizing the distributed function in each device.

The library 2 has an HDL (Hardware Description Language) of the FPGA 12 for realizing wireless communication.
ge) program, each device (amplifier 6, mixer 7, synthesizer 8, DAC 9, ADC 10, ASIC 11,
Commands for controlling individual functions of the I / O 14),
It is used to store frequently used items such as the programs of the DSP 13 and the CPU 5 in advance, and has a function of absorbing differences between individual hardware.

The program generator 16 is an FPGA for realizing wireless communication according to the definition and restrictions of the wireless function described in the application program 1.
12 HDL programs, each device (amplifier 6, mixer 7, synthesizer 8, DAC 9, ADC 10, ASI
C11, I / O 14), commands for controlling individual functions, and programs for the DSP 13 and the CPU 5 are generated. Further, the program generation unit 16 determines distribution of each function defined in the application program 1 to each device.

The library management unit 15 manages, as a library management function, programs and control commands previously installed in the library 2 and programs and commands previously downloaded.

O / S 3 is an operation system for CPU 105, and furthermore, device driver 104.
Is software for controlling the operation of each device (hardware). Each device (the amplifier 6, the mixer 7, the synthesizer 8, the DAC 9, the ADC 10, the AS 10,
(IC11, FPGA12, DSP13, I / O14)
Are individual hardware components for realizing the wireless function.

Here, before describing the operation of the wireless communication apparatus according to the present invention, it is generally unnecessary to describe the assignment of each function for realizing the defined wireless function in the application program 1. The operation of the wireless communication device will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a wireless communication device that does not need to describe assignment of a wireless function, and FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an execution form of an application program 1 in the wireless communication device.

For example, the program generation unit 16 generates “Library 2” based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints of the device described in the application program 1.
Which program or control command to use is stored. " Then, the library management unit 15
Now, the wireless function, specifications,
Based on the analysis result of the constraint condition, it is determined whether a program and a control command required to realize the wireless function described in the application program 1 exist in the library 2.

At this time, the application program 1
In the case where there is no program and control command for realizing the wireless function described in (1), the library management unit 15 executes
Download the missing programs and control commands to the library 2.

After downloading, the program generator 16
Generates a program for each device and a control command with reference to the library 2. That is, individual functions are assigned to each device here.

Finally, by loading the generated program and control command for each device into hardware, each device operates to realize a wireless function. The control of each device is executed by the device driver 4 via the O / S 3.

By providing the library management unit 15 and the program generation unit 16 as described above, it becomes possible to automatically assign individual functions to each device at the time of compiling or executing the program. It is not necessary to describe the assignment of each function for realizing the wireless function.

Next, the operation of the program generator 16 for distributing the program and the control command to each device based on the contents of the application program 1 will be described.
This will be described in more detail according to a specific example. Here, as a specific example, a case where the function of a digital filter is realized as in the related art will be described. Further, here, for example, the function of the digital filter can be realized by two kinds of devices, the FPGA 12 and the DSP 13. When the digital filter is realized by using one of the FPGAs 12, high-speed operation is possible, and the other DSP 13 is used. When the digital filter is realized by using, it is assumed that the operation is performed at a lower speed than the FPGA 12. Further, it is assumed that the operation speed of the digital filter is described as a constraint in the application program 1.

In such a case, the program generator 16 selects a device that realizes the function of the digital filter according to the constraints of the application program 1. That is, when both satisfy the constraint condition, one of them is selected according to the situation at that time, and F
If only the PGA 12 satisfies the condition, the FP
Select GA12.

Then, the program generation unit 16 confirms whether a program or a command to be executed on the selected device exists in the library 2 or not.
For example, if there is a program or command for realizing the function of the digital filter, the program or command is assigned to the selected device. On the other hand, if there is no program or command for realizing the function of the digital filter, the necessary program or command is downloaded from the application program 1 or from outside, and then assigned to the selected device. .
As a result, a digital filter can be realized using the optimal device selected by the program generation unit 16.

However, in the above wireless communication device, the above-described processing for allocating programs and control commands can be executed only when an application program is read (at the time of compilation or program execution). Therefore, there is a problem that a program or a command cannot be distributed to an optimal device according to the above.

Further, in the above-mentioned radio communication apparatus, since the physical connection order of the individual devices is fixed, “the processing executed by a certain device is executed instead of the device at a completely different physical connection position. To make it "
There is a problem that it is not possible to "join multiple devices at physically distant connection locations".

Therefore, in the present embodiment, a method for dynamically responding to a time-series change in the communication environment is provided.
A function distributing unit 17 for distributing wireless functions to individual hardware (devices) is provided. For example, even when a certain device is in a malfunction or failure state, a wireless function assigned to the device is realized. Distribute the function to other possible devices.

Further, by connecting each device with a single bus and eliminating the physical connection order of the individual devices, for example, a function in which processing cannot be caught by one device is described as “a plurality of devices”. (Parallel processing), or "processing to allocate devices that have room for processing".

The operation of the wireless communication apparatus according to this embodiment, which includes the function distribution unit 17 and further connects each device via a data bus, will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an execution form of the application program 1 in the wireless communication device according to the present invention. For example, the function distribution unit 17 assigns a wireless function to each piece of hardware (device) based on the wireless function, specifications, and constraints of the device described in the application program 1. That is, an optimal device at the present time is selected, and a wireless function is assigned to the device.

In the program generation unit 16, the function distribution unit 1
Based on the assignment result from step 7, an optimal program and control command at that time are generated. At this time, the program generation unit 16 refers to the library 2 and
For example, when a program and a control command necessary for realizing the wireless function are in the library 2,
The library management unit 15 reads them out and downloads the necessary programs and control commands from the application program 1 or the outside if the programs and control commands necessary to realize the wireless function are not in the library 2.

Note that the download processing of the program and control command for each device is all performed by O /
This is performed via S3. Further, the gain of the amplifier 6, the setting of the mixer 7, the oscillation frequency of the synthesizer 8, the setting of the D / A converter 9 and the A / D converter 10, the ASIC 1
1 and the I / O 14 are executed via the device driver 4. Further, programs for the FPGA 12 and the DSP 13 are downloaded via the device driver 4. Thereby, a wireless function can be realized.

The function distribution unit 17 selects an optimum device capable of realizing the radio function each time according to the communication environment that changes in time series, and allocates the radio function to the device. Specifically, for example, when an operation failure or failure occurs in a device that is operating, the function distribution unit 17 sends the function to another device capable of realizing the wireless function assigned to the device. Sort out. Further, when a function that cannot be processed by one device is realized, the function is shared and performed by a plurality of devices. If there is a device that cannot keep up with the process, the function is assigned to a device that has room for the process.

The program generation unit 16 generates an optimum program and control command each time based on the assignment result from the function distribution unit 17 that changes according to the communication environment. At this time, as described above, the library 2 is referred to, and if the programs and control commands necessary for realizing the wireless function are present in the library 2, they are read out. Necessary programs and control commands are downloaded from the application program 1 or the outside.

In the wireless communication apparatus according to the present embodiment, each device is connected to each other via a data bus. Therefore, when one wireless function is divided into a plurality of devices and implemented, Here, data is exchanged. For example, on the data bus 3, input / output signals (data) of each device, signals (status data) indicating states, and the like are transmitted and received.

As described above, in the present embodiment, by providing the function distributing unit 17 for distributing the wireless function to each hardware (device), for example, a certain device may be in the state of malfunction or failure. In some cases, the function can be distributed to another device capable of realizing the wireless function assigned to the device. As a result, the function can be dynamically allocated to the optimal device at the present time, and the operation of the wireless function can be continuously performed without temporarily stopping the operation.

Further, in the present embodiment, each device is connected by one bus, and the physical connection order of the individual devices is eliminated, so that a function that cannot be processed by one device can be provided in plural. Can be shared among devices. As a result, the load on each device can be reduced, and other functions can be assigned to devices that have sufficient processing time, thus realizing high-performance devices. can do.

FIG. 5 shows the present embodiment.
The configuration and operation of the wireless communication device capable of transmitting and receiving wireless data have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, this configuration may be applied to a receiver that can receive wireless data, The same effect as described above can be obtained by applying the present invention to a possible transmitter. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a receiver according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a transmitter according to the present embodiment, which is provided with a function distribution unit 17 as in the above-described wireless communication device, and is further characterized in that each device is connected by a data bus 31. I have.

Further, the configuration of the present embodiment can be variously modified. Even when a part of each device is missing, a device other than the above controlled by software is newly added. It is assumed that the same function can be realized even in the case of adding Further, in the present embodiment, the data bus 31 is used as an interconnection method for individual devices, but any interconnection method (for example, a matrix switch, etc.) may be used as long as interconnection is realized. Good.

Embodiment 2 FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an execution form of the application program 1 in the wireless communication device according to the second embodiment. In the first embodiment described above, the function distribution unit 17
The wireless function is allocated to the most suitable device based on the function, specification, and constraint of the device described in (1). Thus, in the present embodiment, the function, specification, and constraint conditions of the device described in the application program 1 are received, and the function distribution unit 17
Is provided with an external control unit 18 capable of externally controlling the wireless communication device, and by applying a constraint condition from outside the wireless communication device by a user operation, the wireless function can be assigned to a desired device.

More specifically, for example, when a specific function is to be realized, the function is assigned to “a device capable of realizing high-quality communication by high-speed processing” or “low-power processing by low-speed processing”. The function to be assigned to the “device capable of realizing this communication” can be selected by an operation from the user, that is, by control from the external control unit 18 (see FIG. 7). In the process of the present embodiment, the same processes as those in FIG. 4 described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment are obtained, and the external control unit 18 capable of controlling the function distribution unit 17 from the outside is provided. With a configuration in which constraints can be given from outside the wireless communication device, a wireless function can be realized by a device specified by the user. Thereby, for example, a processing method such as “high quality” or “low power consumption” can be easily selected on the user side, so that it is possible to more closely cope with a communication environment that changes in time series. It becomes possible.

In the present embodiment, the configuration and operation of a wireless communication device capable of transmitting and receiving wireless data have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
The same effects as described above can be obtained by applying the present invention to a receiver for receiving wireless data or to a transmitter for transmitting wireless data. For example, FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a receiver according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a transmitter according to the present embodiment. In addition to the configuration of the first embodiment in which each device is connected by a data bus 31, an external control unit 18 capable of externally controlling the function distribution unit 17 is further provided.

In the present embodiment, the CPU 5
, Library 2, library management unit 15, O / S3,
Although the device driver 4 is implemented, these functions may be implemented in hardware other than the CPU 5. In addition, as an example of the process of the external control unit 18, the specification method by the user has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, control information may be included in received data. In addition, as an example of the constraint from the outside, the selection control of “high quality” or “low power consumption” has been described, but the constraint from the outside is not limited to this.

Embodiment 3 FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a wireless communication device according to a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an execution mode of the application program 1 in the wireless communication device of the third embodiment. In the above-described second embodiment, the function distributing unit 17 determines based on the functions, specifications, and constraints of the device described in the application program 1 and constraints given from the external control unit 18 as necessary. Thus, the wireless function is assigned to a predetermined device. Thus, in the present embodiment, while receiving the function, specification, and constraint conditions of the device described in the application program 1 and the constraint condition given from the external control unit 18, the external and internal wireless communication devices are also received. By providing the evaluation unit 19 for evaluating the communication environment state and receiving the evaluation result, the wireless function is always adaptively and dynamically allocated to the optimal device.

More specifically, when there is a time-series change in the communication environment outside the apparatus, for example, a change in the transmission path characteristics, the evaluation unit 19 transmits the evaluation result to the function distribution unit 17.
Notify to Then, the function distributing unit 17 assigns a function to each device based on the evaluation result in addition to the functions, specifications, and constraints of the apparatus described in the application program 1 and the constraints given from the external control unit 18. Change adaptively and dynamically.

Further, when there is a time-series change in the communication environment within the apparatus, for example, a hardware failure or malfunction, a decrease in battery capacity, or the like, the evaluation unit 19 distributes the evaluation result to the function distribution. Notify unit 17. Then, in the same manner as described above, the function distribution unit 17 performs, based on the evaluation result, in addition to the functions, specifications, and constraints of the device described in the application program 1 and the constraints given from the external control unit 18. The function allocation for each device is adaptively and dynamically changed. In the processing according to the present embodiment, the same processing as in the above-described first or second embodiment is denoted by the same reference numeral, and the description is omitted.

Here, the evaluation unit 19 of the radio communication apparatus according to the present embodiment evaluates the state of the transmission path, and adaptively and dynamically changes the function distribution to each device based on the evaluation result. Will be described in detail. For example, the evaluation unit 19 evaluates the state of the transmission path using the input signal-to-noise ratio (S / N) or the bit error rate (BER) of the demodulated signal. Here, a case in which the state of the transmission path is evaluated by BER will be described.

The evaluator 19 outputs a signal (hereinafter referred to as a state change signal) for notifying that the BER has become higher than a certain threshold or that the BER has become lower than a certain threshold. ) Is output. For example, when receiving a state change signal notifying that the communication state has deteriorated, the function distribution unit 17 assigns a wireless function to a device that maintains high communication quality. On the other hand, when receiving a state change signal notifying that the communication state has been improved, the function distributing unit 17 simplifies the demodulation algorithm and provides a wireless function to a device that reduces the amount of computation and power consumption. Assign.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the same effects as those of the above-described first or second embodiment can be obtained, and further, evaluation unit 19 for evaluating the communication environment state outside and inside the radio communication apparatus. And the configuration for receiving the evaluation results enables adaptive and dynamic allocation of wireless functions to each device in accordance with the communication environment outside the device and the communication environment inside the device that change over time. Can be changed.

In the present embodiment, the configuration and operation of a wireless communication device capable of transmitting and receiving wireless data have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
The same effects as described above can be obtained by applying the present invention to a receiver for receiving wireless data or to a transmitter for transmitting wireless data. For example, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a receiver according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a transmitter according to the present embodiment. In addition to the configuration of the second embodiment in which the external control unit 18 is provided and the devices are connected by the data bus 31, an evaluation unit 19 for evaluating the external and internal communication environment state of the wireless communication device is further provided. Features. Further, the wireless communication device, the receiver, and the transmitter are not limited thereto, and may have a configuration in which an evaluation unit 19 is added to the configuration of the first embodiment, for example.

In the present embodiment, the CPU 5
The evaluation unit 19, the library 2, the library management unit 1
5, O / S3 and device driver 4 are installed,
These functions may be implemented in hardware other than U5. Further, in the present embodiment, the signal-to-noise ratio of the input signal and the bit error rate of the demodulated signal have been described as examples of the evaluation result. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Any evaluation can be made regardless of whether the apparatus is inside or outside the apparatus.

[0088]

As described above, according to the present invention, by providing selection / change means for assigning a wireless function to individual hardware, for example, malfunctions or failures have occurred in certain hardware. In this case, the function can be assigned to another hardware capable of realizing the wireless function that the hardware was in charge of. As a result, the function can be dynamically assigned to the most suitable hardware at the present time, so that the wireless communication can be continuously operated without temporarily stopping the operation of the wireless function. An effect is obtained that a device can be obtained.

According to the next invention, each hardware is connected by one data bus, and the physical connection order of the individual hardware is eliminated, so that the function that the processing cannot be overtaken by one hardware can be achieved. Can be shared and performed by a plurality of hardware. This makes it possible to reduce the load on each piece of hardware, and to assign other functions to the hardware that could have sufficient processing time. And a wireless communication device capable of realizing the above can be obtained.

According to the next invention, the external control means capable of controlling the selecting / changing means from the outside is provided, and the user can specify the restriction condition from the outside of the radio communication apparatus by the operation of the user. A wireless function can be realized by hardware that performs the function. This allows, for example,
A wireless communication device that can easily select a processing method such as “high quality” or “low power consumption” on a user side, and thus can more closely cope with a communication environment that changes in time series. Is obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided an evaluation means for evaluating the communication environment state outside and inside the radio communication apparatus, and the selection / change means includes the evaluation result, the contents described in the application program, and It is configured to receive a constraint condition given from the external control means. This makes it possible to adaptively and dynamically change the distribution of the wireless function to each hardware in accordance with the communication environment outside the device that changes over time and the communication environment inside the device. Is obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided an evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside the radio communication apparatus, and the selection / change means judges the evaluation result and the contents described in the application program. It is configured to receive. This makes it possible to adaptively and dynamically change the distribution of the wireless function to each hardware in accordance with the communication environment outside the device that changes over time and the communication environment inside the device. Is obtained.

According to the next invention, by providing a selection step and a change step of assigning a wireless function to each hardware, for example, when an operation failure or failure occurs in a certain hardware, the hardware The function can be assigned to other hardware capable of realizing the wireless function that was in charge of the function. As a result, the function can be dynamically assigned to the most suitable hardware at the present time, so that the wireless communication can be continuously operated without temporarily stopping the operation of the wireless function. This has the effect that a method can be obtained.

According to the next invention, a wireless function can be realized by hardware designated by the user by including an external control step capable of externally controlling the selected hardware. As a result, for example, a process such as “high quality” or “low power consumption” can be easily selected by the user, so that it is possible to respond more finely to a communication environment that changes in time series. Thus, it is possible to obtain a simple wireless communication method.

According to the next invention, the method further includes an evaluation step of evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside the wireless communication device. This makes it possible to adaptively and dynamically change the distribution of the wireless function to each hardware in accordance with the communication environment outside the device and the communication environment inside the device that change in time series. Is obtained.

According to the next invention, the provision of the selecting / changing means for assigning the wireless function to each piece of hardware allows, for example, when an operation failure or a failure occurs in a piece of hardware, the hardware can be used. The function can be assigned to other hardware capable of realizing the wireless function in charge. As a result, the function can be dynamically allocated to the most suitable hardware at the present time, so that the receiver capable of continuously operating the wireless function without temporarily stopping the operation thereof Is obtained.

According to the next invention, each hardware is connected by one data bus, and the physical connection order of the individual hardware is eliminated, so that a function that cannot be processed by one hardware can be achieved. Can be shared and performed by a plurality of hardware. As a result, the load on each hardware can be reduced, and other functions can be assigned to the hardware that has enough processing time, resulting in higher functionality. Thus, it is possible to obtain a receiver capable of performing the operation.

According to the next invention, the external device is provided with external control means capable of controlling the selecting / changing means from the outside, and the user can specify the restricting conditions by operating the user from outside the receiver. The wireless function can be realized by hardware. Thereby, for example, a processing method such as “high quality” or “low power consumption” can be easily selected on the user side, so that it is possible to more closely cope with a communication environment that changes in time series. There is an effect that a possible receiver can be obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided an evaluation means for evaluating the communication environment state outside and inside the receiver, and the selection / change means comprises the evaluation result, the contents described in the application program, and the external device. It is configured to receive a constraint condition given from the control means. This makes it possible to adaptively and dynamically change the distribution of wireless functions to each hardware according to the communication environment outside the receiver that changes in time series and the communication environment inside the receiver. It has the effect that a machine can be obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided evaluation means for evaluating the communication environment state outside and inside the receiver, and the selection / change means receives the evaluation result and the contents described in the application program. Configuration. This makes it possible to adaptively and dynamically change the distribution of wireless functions to each hardware according to the communication environment outside the receiver that changes in time series and the communication environment inside the receiver. You can get the machine,
This has the effect.

According to the next invention, by providing a selection / change means for assigning a wireless function to each hardware, for example, when an operation failure or failure occurs in a certain hardware, the hardware can be used. The function can be assigned to other hardware capable of realizing the wireless function in charge. As a result, the function can be dynamically assigned to the most suitable hardware at the present time, so that the transmitter that can continuously operate the wireless function without temporarily stopping the operation thereof Is obtained.

According to the next invention, each hardware is connected by a single data bus, and the physical connection order of the individual hardware is eliminated, so that a function that cannot be processed by one hardware can be achieved. Can be shared and performed by a plurality of hardware. As a result, the load on each hardware can be reduced, and other functions can be assigned to the hardware that has enough processing time, resulting in higher functionality. Thus, it is possible to obtain a transmitter capable of performing the operation.

According to the next invention, the external device is provided with external control means capable of controlling the selecting / changing means from the outside, and the user can specify the restricting condition by operating the user from outside the transmitter. The wireless function can be realized by hardware. Thereby, for example, a processing method such as “high quality” or “low power consumption” can be easily selected on the user side, so that it is possible to more closely cope with a communication environment that changes in time series. There is an effect that a possible transmitter can be obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided an evaluation means for evaluating the communication environment state outside and inside the transmitter, and the selecting / changing means includes the evaluation result, the contents described in the application program, and the external device. It is configured to receive a constraint condition given from the control means. Thereby, according to the communication environment outside the transmitter that changes in time series and the communication environment inside the transmitter, the transmission of wireless functions to each hardware can be adaptively and dynamically changed. It has the effect that a machine can be obtained.

According to the next invention, there is further provided an evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside the transmitter, and the selection / change means receives the evaluation result and the contents described in the application program. Configuration. Thereby, according to the communication environment outside the transmitter that changes in time series and the communication environment inside the transmitter, the transmission of wireless functions to each hardware can be adaptively and dynamically changed. You can get the machine,
This has the effect.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a first embodiment of a wireless communication device according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of FIG.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a wireless communication apparatus that does not need to describe assignment of wireless functions.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an execution form of an application program 1 in the wireless communication device of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an execution form of an application program 1 in the wireless communication device according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a receiver according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a transmitter according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an execution form of an application program 1 in the wireless communication device according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a receiver according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a transmitter according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a wireless communication apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an execution form of an application program 1 in the wireless communication device according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a receiver according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a transmitter according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional wireless communication device described in a proceedings of the IEICE General Conference.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an execution form of an application program 101.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a configuration of a conventional wireless communication device described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H11-220413.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Application program, 2
Library, 3 Operating System (O / S), 4 Device Driver,
5 CPU, 6 Amplifier, 7 Mixer, 8
Synthesizer (Synth), 9 digital / analog converter (DAC), 10 analog / digital converter (AD
C), 11 ASIC, 12 FPGA (Field Program)
mable GateAllay), 13 DSP (Digital Signal Pr
ocessor), 14 I / O, 15 Library management department (Lib
rary Management), 16 Program Generator (Program
Generator), 17 function distribution unit, 18 external control unit,
19 Evaluation section.

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04L 29/06 H04B 1/74 5K061 // H04B 1/74 H04L 13/00 305C (72) Inventor Eiji Murai 2-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) in Mitsui Electric Co., Ltd. JJ06

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. The wireless function is realized by hardware selected based on a wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in an application program executing a program and a control command stored in a library. In the wireless communication device, based on the content described in the application program, select hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function, and then, for a communication environment that changes in time series, adaptively, Selecting / changing means for changing the hardware; and a hardware program and a control command required to implement the specific wireless function based on the contents of the library or the contents of software externally provided. Generating / notifying means for generating, and notifying the hardware, Wireless communication device comprising: a. 2. A data bus or another means for realizing information transmission is connected between hardware capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program. The wireless communication device according to claim 1. 3. An external control means capable of controlling the selection / change means from outside the apparatus, wherein the selection / change means is provided with contents described in the application program and from the external control means. Based on constraints, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, for a communication environment that changes in time series, adaptively change the hardware. The wireless communication device according to claim 1. 4. An evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside of the device which changes in time series, wherein the selection / change means includes contents described in the application program, and the external control means. Based on the constraints given by, and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, adaptively to a communication environment that changes in time series The wireless communication device according to claim 3, wherein said hardware is changed. 5. An evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside of the device which changes in time series, wherein said selection / change means includes contents described in said application program and said evaluation means. Selecting the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the evaluation result, and then adaptively changing the hardware for a communication environment that changes in time series. The wireless communication device according to claim 1. 6. The wireless function is realized by a hardware selected based on a wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in an application program executing a program and a control command stored in a library. In the wireless communication method, based on a content described in the application program, a selection step of selecting hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function, and based on a content of the library or a content of software externally provided. A generation / notification step of generating a program and a control command for the hardware necessary for realizing the specific wireless function, and notifying the hardware of the program and control command; Change the hardware adaptively to the communication environment Radio communication method characterized by comprising a changing step that, a. 7. An external control step capable of changing the selected hardware from outside the device, wherein in the selecting step, the contents described in the application program and the external control step Based on constraints given from the outside, based on the hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, In the changing step, adaptively to the communication environment that changes in time series, 7. The wireless communication method according to claim 6, wherein the hardware is changed based on contents described in the application program and a constraint condition externally applied in the external control step. 8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of: evaluating an external and internal communication environment state of the device which changes in time series, wherein in the selecting step, the contents described in the application program, the external control, Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the constraints given from the outside in the step and the evaluation result in the evaluation step, Changing the hardware based on the content described in the application program, the constraint condition externally applied in the external control step, and the evaluation result in the evaluation step, adaptively to the communication environment to be executed. The wireless communication method according to claim 7, wherein: 9. The wireless function is realized by hardware selected based on a wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in an application program executing a program and a control command stored in a library. In the receiver, based on the content described in the application program, select hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function, and then, for a communication environment that changes in time series, adaptively, Selecting / changing means for changing hardware; and generating a hardware program and a control command necessary for realizing the specific wireless function based on the contents of the library or the contents of software provided from outside. Generating / notifying means for notifying the hardware of the above. Receiver. 10. A data bus or another means for realizing information transmission is connected between hardware capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program. The receiver according to claim 9, 11. An external control means capable of controlling the selection / change means from outside the receiver, wherein the selection / change means receives the contents described in the application program and the external control means. Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the following constraints, and then adaptively changing the hardware for a communication environment that changes in time series. The receiver according to claim 9 or 10, wherein 12. The communication apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: an evaluation unit configured to evaluate a communication environment state outside and inside of the receiver that changes in a time series, wherein the selection / change unit includes the contents described in the application program and the external control. Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the constraint conditions given by the means and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, and then adapting the communication environment to a time-varying communication environment. The receiver according to claim 11, wherein the hardware is changed. 13. An evaluation means for evaluating a communication environment state outside and inside of a receiver which changes in time series, wherein said selection / change means includes a content described in said application program and said evaluation. Based on the evaluation result by the means, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, adaptively change the hardware for a communication environment that changes in time series. A receiver according to claim 9 or claim 10. 14. The wireless function is realized by hardware selected based on a wireless function, specifications, and constraints described in an application program executing a program and a control command stored in a library. In the transmitter, based on the content described in the application program, select hardware capable of realizing a specific wireless function, and then, for a communication environment that changes in time series, adaptively, Selecting / changing means for changing hardware; and generating a hardware program and a control command necessary for realizing the specific wireless function based on the contents of the library or the contents of software provided from outside. Generating / notifying means for notifying the hardware of this, A transmitter, comprising: 15. A data bus or another means for realizing information transmission between hardware capable of realizing at least one of the wireless functions described in the application program. The transmitter of claim 14, wherein 16. An external control means capable of controlling the selection / change means from outside a transmitter, wherein the selection / change means receives the contents described in the application program and the external control means. Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the following constraints, and then adaptively changing the hardware for a communication environment that changes in time series. The transmitter according to claim 14 or 15, wherein 17. The communication apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising: an evaluation unit that evaluates a communication environment state outside and inside of the transmitter that changes in a time series, wherein the selection / change unit includes the content described in the application program, the external control, Selecting hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function based on the constraint conditions given by the means and the evaluation result by the evaluation means, and then adapting the communication environment to a time-varying communication environment. 17. The transmitter according to claim 16, wherein said hardware is changed. 18. The communication apparatus according to claim 18, further comprising: an evaluation unit that evaluates a communication environment state outside and inside of the transmitter that changes in time series, wherein the selection / change unit includes a content described in the application program and the evaluation. Based on the evaluation result by the means, select hardware capable of realizing the specific wireless function, and then, adaptively change the hardware for a communication environment that changes in time series. A transmitter according to claim 14 or claim 15, characterized in that: