Multiple input multiple output user equipment radio frequency assistant system

00011. Technical field The present disclosure relates to a multi-input multi-output wireless communication system including a base station and a user device. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a wireless communication system that includes a radio frequency assistant configured by a user device to assist in the transmission of radio frequency signals.

00022. Explanation of related technology Multi-input, multi-output technology increases the strength, power and reliability of wireless signal transmission over multiple antenna implementations. The use of multi-input, multi-output technology enhances performance through increased data transmission and increased spatial density by using multiple antennas. In current spatial diversity systems, multiple antennas at a base station or multiple antennas at a terminal can operate at the same carrier frequency. For example, multiple antenna elements operating in a receiver may receive independent transmissions at the same carrier frequency and may enhance performance by reducing the amount of interference with the signal. Similarly, multiple antenna elements in a transmitter increase the ability to transmit data.

0003In current spatial diversity systems, the distance between the antennas in the transmitter and the antennas in the receiver can affect the correlation between the transmitter antennas and the correlation between the receiver antennas. Correlation between closely spaced antennas can reduce any multi-input, multi-output spatial diversity and multiplexing gain. In general, the correlation decreases with increasing antenna spacing. Experimental results and measurements suggest that by spacing the antenna elements at a physical distance of about half (λ / 2) of λ, the antennas can become uncorrelated at the transmitter or receiver, where λ is the wavelength of the carrier radio wave or radio frequency signal. Experimental results and measurements also show that the receiver antenna benefits from performance improvements up to a distance of about 3λ.

0004For example, at a frequency of 700 MHz, half the physical distance of λ (ie, about 21.4 cm) is required for antenna uncorrelated to achieve independent antenna operation. In small wireless devices (eg, handsets or similar wireless cellular systems), this physical distance between multiple antennas is due to the limited amount of space available within such small devices. It is a difficult task to achieve on a single device.

<p num="0005"> (Detailed explanation) Initially, exemplary implementations of one or more embodiments are provided below, but it is understood that the description should not be construed to limit the scope of the embodiments described herein. Should be. The present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or existing. The present disclosure should by no means be limited to exemplary implementations, drawings, and techniques exemplified and described herein, which, within the scope of the appended claims, by an equal overall scope. Can be modified. It should be understood that reference numbers can be repeated between drawings to refer to corresponding or similar elements, where appropriate for the sake of brevity and clarification of the illustration.</p><p num="0006"> According to an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication system comprises a radio frequency assistant, which is activated to convert and repeat a radio frequency signal in response to a command received wirelessly by the radio frequency assistant. Wireless communication systems include user equipment that configures and controls radio frequency assistants via wireless commands. The radio frequency assistant and user equipment are configured to work together as a single system.</p><p num="0007"> According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a wireless device that processes a radio frequency signal comprises a frequency converter, which is a first received in the first radio frequency band in response to a control signal. The radio frequency signal is configured to be converted into a second radio frequency signal in the second radio frequency band. The wireless device also includes a first antenna communicably coupled to the frequency converter, thereby responding to a wireless command received from the user equipment by the first radio in the first radio frequency band. The frequency signal is received, and the converted first radio frequency signal in the second radio frequency band is transmitted to the user equipment. The user equipment allows the control signal to control the configuration of the frequency converter.</p><p num="0008"> According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of assisting radio frequency transmission in a wireless communication system is disclosed. This method involves two actions, the two actions being to activate a radio frequency assistant with the user device, thereby the first in response to a command received from the user device. From converting the radio frequency signal of the above to a second radio frequency signal and transmitting the second radio frequency signal to the user equipment via the wireless link between the radio frequency assistant and the user equipment. Become.</p><p num="0009"> The present disclosure provides a user equipment assistant system with a plurality of antennas for wireless communication in a multi-input, multi-output wireless system. Multiple components of the user equipment assistant system include the user equipment and the radio frequency assistant, which is wirelessly coupled to the user equipment and configured to operate together with the user equipment as a single wireless system. Will be done. Each of the user equipment and the radio frequency assistant includes at least one antenna that is separated from each other at a distance (D). User devices include, but are not limited to, devices such as mobile stations, routers, handheld computers, digital assistants, mobile cellular devices, and similar devices recognized by those skilled in the art.</p><p num="0010"> The user equipment activates the radio frequency assistant to receive radio frequency signals via a number of commands, which also control the operation of the radio frequency assistant. The radio frequency assistant is actuated and controlled by the user equipment, thereby converting the received radio frequency signal into a different carrier frequency for transmission. The user equipment determines whether the radio frequency assistant retransmits or repeats the converted radio frequency signal to the base station or user equipment. The radio frequency assistant retransmits or repeats different carrier frequencies as determined by the user equipment. The user equipment communicates with the radio frequency assistant via a short-range wireless link, which can be actuated between the radio frequency assistant and the user equipment to receive or transmit radio frequency signals.</p><p num="0011"> In the technical field of communication systems, a wireless link is a communication connection between a large number of communication units that transmit and receive radio frequency signals. User equipment has the same meaning and functionality as the term "UE" as referred to herein. Radio frequency assistant has the same meaning and functionality as the term "assistant" as referred to herein. Also, in the present disclosure, short distance refers to a distance that can be within a range of about 10 meters in some embodiments. The short distance depends on the power of the transmitted signal and the strength of the signal required for transmission or reception.</p><p num="0012"> Radio frequency assistants can be transported over short distances from user equipment. For example, in some embodiments, the distance between the radio frequency assistant and the user equipment can be 10 meters or less. Radio frequency assistants can be transported in close proximity to user equipment through various implementations. For example, without limitation, the radio frequency assistant may be implemented within a keychain, keyring, or holster of the user equipment, which should be transported with or within a short range of distance from the user equipment. It is a mobile cellular device.</p><p num="0013"> For example, the present invention provides the following items. (Item 1) It is a wireless communication system A radio frequency assistant that translates and repeats radio frequency signals in response to commands received wirelessly by the radio frequency assistant. With a user device that configures and controls the radio frequency signal via the wireless command A wireless communication system comprising: The radio frequency assistant and the user equipment are configured to operate together as a single system. (Item 2) A wireless link between the user device and the radio frequency assistant is further provided, and the user device configures and controls the radio frequency assistant by transmitting a plurality of commands via the wireless link. The wireless communication system described in the item. (Item 3) The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the single system is a user equipment assistant system. (Item 4) A plurality of base stations including a plurality of antennas configured to transmit data to the user equipment assistant system at a first frequency via a plurality of paths are further provided, and the user equipment is the first. The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, which controls the radio frequency assistant of the user equipment assistant system in order to convert the frequency of the user equipment to a second frequency. (Item 5) The above user equipment A first transceiver that receives a first radio frequency signal at a first frequency through a first antenna coupled to the user equipment. A second transceiver that receives a second radio frequency signal from the radio frequency assistant, With a baseband and control processor processing the first radio frequency signal and the second radio frequency signal The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the second radio frequency signal is the first radio frequency signal converted by the radio frequency assistant. (Item 6) The first control channel modem in the user equipment is further provided, wherein the first control channel modem transmits the command from the baseband and the control processor to the radio frequency assistant according to any one of the above items. Wireless communication system. (Item 7) The above radio frequency assistant A frequency converter that converts the first radio frequency signal received in the first radio frequency band into the second radio frequency signal in the second radio frequency band, and With a second antenna communicatively coupled to the frequency converter The second antenna receives the first radio frequency signal in the first radio frequency band, and the converted first radio frequency signal in the second radio frequency band is used by the user. The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, which is transmitted to a device. (Item 8) The above radio frequency assistant A second control channel configured to communicate over a wireless link to the first control channel modem and receive commands transmitted wirelessly from the first control channel modem of the baseband and control processor. With a modem With a microprocessor that processes the command transmitted to the second control channel modem The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, further comprising. (Item 9) The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the microprocessor is communicably coupled to the frequency converter to process commands that control the frequency converter. (Item 10) The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the plurality of commands include a plurality of computer-executable instructions executed by a microprocessor in the radio frequency assistant. (Item 11) The above computer-executable instructions are A computer-executable program that enables frequency changes in the frequency converter of the radio frequency assistant, and With computer-executable programs that enable gain changes The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items. (Item 12) The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the user device is a mobile cellular device. (Item 13) The wireless communication system according to any one of the above items, wherein the single system is a multi-input multi-output wireless system. (Item 14) A wireless device that processes radio frequency signals With a frequency converter configured to convert the first radio frequency signal received in the first radio frequency band into a second radio frequency signal in the second radio frequency band in response to the control signal. , A first antenna communicably coupled to the frequency converter, the first antenna responding to a command wirelessly received from the user equipment in the first radio frequency band. With a first antenna that receives the first radio frequency signal and transmits the converted first radio frequency signal to the user equipment in the second radio frequency band. The user device is a wireless device that allows the control signal to control the configuration of the frequency converter. (Item 15) The wireless device according to any one of the above items, wherein the first antenna transmits the first radio frequency signal and also receives the second radio frequency signal. (Item 16) The wireless device according to any one of the above items, further comprising a microprocessor that allows the frequency converter to convert the first radio frequency signal into the second radio frequency signal. (Item 17) The item further comprises a control channel modem communicably coupled to the microprocessor and the user equipment, which controls the frequency converter and allows the transfer of commands from the user equipment. The wireless device described in any of. (Item 18) The wireless device according to any one of the above items, wherein the microprocessor adjusts a reference frequency of the frequency converter based on a command received via the control channel modem. (Item 19) The wireless device according to any one of the above items, wherein the first antenna receives the first radio frequency signal, and the second antenna transmits the second radio frequency signal. (Item 20) A method of supporting radio frequency transmission in a wireless communication system. Activating the radio frequency assistant by the user device to convert the first radio frequency signal to the second radio frequency signal in response to a command received from the user device. To transmit the second radio frequency signal to the user device via a wireless link between the radio frequency assistant and the user device. Including, methods. (Item 21) The method according to any of the above items, further comprising configuring the radio frequency assistant with the user equipment to receive the first radio frequency signal transmitted to the user equipment. (Item 22) The method of any of the above items, further comprising assigning a unique identification to the radio frequency assistant paired with the radio frequency assistant to work with the user equipment. (Item 23) The method according to any of the above items, wherein the radio frequency assistant is activated by the user equipment in response to the quality of the first radio frequency signal being less than a predetermined threshold. (Item 24) The method according to any of the above items, further comprising controlling the gain and frequency of the second radio frequency signal converted by the radio frequency assistant via a command transmitted by the user equipment. (Item 25) The method according to any one of the above items, wherein the above-mentioned configuration includes transmitting a plurality of commands from the above-mentioned user equipment for controlling the operation of the above-mentioned radio frequency assistant.</p><p num="0014"> (Summary) User equipment and wireless radio frequency assistants in communication systems that support multiple inputs and outputs. The wireless radio frequency assistant and user equipment work together as a single system. The user equipment controls and activates the wireless radio frequency assistant, converting the first frequency of the radio frequency signal transmitted to the user equipment system and the wireless radio frequency assistant to the second frequency. The wireless radio frequency assistant transmits a second frequency to the user equipment.</p><p num="0015"> References have been made to the following brief description, along with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, for a better understanding of the present disclosure and the various embodiments described herein, which are at least one exemplary. An embodiment is shown.</p>

0016<figref num="1">FIG. 1 is a top-level system diagram of a 2x2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="2">FIG. 2 is an upper level system diagram of a 1 × 2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system, which is a modification of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 3 is an upper level system diagram of a 2 × 2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system, which is a modification of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="4">FIG. 4 is an example of a communication system that can implement alternative embodiments according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="5">FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a user equipment assistant system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 6 is a detailed block diagram of the user equipment assistant system illustrated in FIG. 5, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="7">FIG. 7 is a diagram of a radio frequency assistant status machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="8">FIG. 8 is a status table diagram providing details of the radio frequency assistant of FIG. 7, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="9A">FIG. 9 is a flowchart comprising a partial view, FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, which details the operation of a user equipment assistant system in a wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="9B">FIG. 9 is a flowchart comprising a partial view, FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, which details the operation of a user equipment assistant system in a wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="9C">FIG. 9 is a flowchart comprising a partial view, FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, which details the operation of a user equipment assistant system in a wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="10">FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a user device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref>

0017Focusing here on FIG. 1, the top-level representation of the 2 × 2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system 100 is depicted according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The user equipment assistant system 102 receives a plurality of radio frequency signals of a single frequency f1 from the base station 120 via a plurality of communication channels or paths. In this embodiment, there are four routes: route 1_f1 112, route 2_f1 114, route 3_f1 116, and route 4_f1 118. Route 1_f1 112, route 2_f1 114, route 3_f1 116, and route 4_f1 118 may be transmitted between the user equipment assistant system 102 and base station 120 at a single frequency f1. The transmission may be uplink communication transmission from the user equipment 102 to the base station 120, or downlink communication transmission from the base station 120 to the user equipment 102. In the illustrated example, the number of routes is not limited to the illustrated routes and may include any number of communication routes as may be known to those of skill in the art.

0018As depicted, the user equipment assistant system 102 includes two antenna elements, the UA1 108C and the UA2 106C. Antennas UA1 108C and UA2 106C are spaced or separated from each other at distance D 104. The spacing between the UA1 108C and the UA2 106C is sufficient to provide independent transmit and receive transmission paths, and sufficiently reduce any correlation or interference between the UA1 108C and the UA2 106C. Should be. The spatial separation of distance D 104 represents the optimum separation distance of about λ / 2 or greater, where lambda λ is the wavelength of the carrier radio wave.

0019In downlink communication transmission, base station 120 may transmit radio signals of frequency f1 via base station antennas BA1 122 and BA2 124. The base station antenna 122 and the base station antenna 124 may be configured as a single antenna or a plurality of antennas or a group of antennas. The radio signal frequency f1 is received by the user equipment assistant system 102 via multiple paths and through the antennas UA1 108C and UA2 106C of the user equipment assistant system 102.

0020In one embodiment of downlink communication transmission, the radio frequency signal is transmitted directly from the antenna BA1 122 on the base station 120 to the antenna UA1 108C on the user equipment 108 via path 1_f1 112. The radio frequency signal is transmitted directly from the antenna BA1 122 on the base station 120 to the antenna UA2 106C on the radio frequency assistant 106 via path 3_f1 116. Further, the radio frequency signal is transmitted directly from the antenna BA2 124 to the antenna UA1 108C on the user equipment 108 via the path 2_f1 114. The radio frequency signal is transmitted directly from the antenna BA2 124 on the base station 120 to the antenna UA2 106C on the radio frequency assistant 106 via path 4_f1 118. The user equipment 108 may allow the operation of the radio frequency assistant 106 of the user equipment assistant system 102 to convert or convert the radio frequency signal via path 3_f1 116 to the second radio frequency signal f2. The second radio frequency signal f2 is antenna AM2 106B and antenna AM1. It communicates directly to the user device 108 via a short-range wireless link (path 5_f2 110) to and from 108B.

0021As depicted, the antenna AM1 108B is inside the user equipment assistant system 102 and functions to enable a wireless link (path 5_f2 110). In one embodiment, the antenna UA1 108C and the antenna AM1 108B can be a single antenna.

0022In the uplink communication transmission, the user equipment assistant system 102 may transmit a signal of frequency f1 to the base station antennas BA1 122 and BA2 124 of the base station 120 via multiple paths. In one embodiment, the user equipment assistant system 102 takes route 2_f1 114 and route 4_f1 118 to antenna BA2 124 on base station 120 and via route 3_f1 116 and route 1_f1 112 to the base station. A signal can be transmitted to antenna BA1 122 on 120. The user equipment 108 may allow the operation of the radio frequency assistant 106 to transmit multiple signals on path 3_f1 116 and path 4_f1 118. Assistant 106 translates the signal from the wireless short-range channel (path 5_f2 110) and transmits the signal over path 3_f1 116 and path 4_f1 118 at frequency f1.

0023Focusing here on FIG. 2, the top-level diagram of the 1 × 2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system 200 is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In a 1x2 multi-input multi-output communication system, there are two antennas on one side of transmission and one antenna on the other side of transmission. Multiple antennas are used for either receivers or transmitters, rather than both receivers and transmitters for bidirectional communication. In the multi-input multi-output wireless communication system 200, the downlink data transmission is a communication transmission from the base station 220 and is transmitted to the user equipment assistant system 202. The uplink data transmission is a communication transmission from the user equipment assistant system 202 to the base station 220.

0024In one exemplary embodiment, downlink data transmission uses one transmitting antenna (antenna BA1 222) at base station 220 and two receiving antennas (antenna UA1 208C and antenna UA2 206C) at user equipment assistant system 202. Can be done. The base station antenna BA1 222 can be a single antenna or a plurality of antennas or a group of antennas. Uplink data transmission may use one transmitting antenna (antenna UA1 208C) on the user equipment assistant system and one receiving antenna (antenna BA1 222) on the base station.

0025In another exemplary embodiment, uplink data transmission involves two transmitting antennas (antenna UA1 208C and antenna UA2 206C) on the user equipment assistant system and one receiving antenna (antenna BA1 222) on the base station. It can be used, thereby achieving some performance benefit from transmission diversity. Performance benefits can include, but are never limited to, lower error rates for wireless communication systems, increased data rates or capacities, increased propagation distances or ranges for wireless communication systems, and reduced signal interference. Not done.

0026For example, the antenna UA1 208C may transmit a signal via path 1_f1 212 and the antenna UA2 206C may transmit a signal via path 3_f1 214. Interference on one or both of the transmission paths, such as path 1_f1 212 and path 3_f1 214, causes fading on the selected path, or if only one path is transmitting the signal frequency, the efficiency of transmission is reduced. Can be reduced.

0027In one exemplary embodiment, the antenna UA1 208C and the antenna UA2 206C can be dynamically selected. In another exemplary embodiment, the antenna UA1 208C and the antenna UA2 206C can be used simultaneously. In another exemplary embodiment, switching or toggle between antenna UA1 208C and antenna UA2 206C, as needed, to overcome potential fading and increase signal frequency transmission. Is also possible.

0028In all referenced exemplary embodiments, the user equipment 208 may enable the operation of the antenna UA2 206C of the radio frequency assistant 206 for the transmission of signals across the signal path (path 3_f1 214). In uplink transmission, the radio frequency assistant 206 translates the signal and retransmits or repeats the translated signal over the wireless short-range link (path 5_f2 210). The radio frequency assistant 206 retransmits or repeats the converted signal at a different frequency via the signal path (path 3_f1 214).

0029In operation, base station 220 may transmit a single frequency over multiple independent paths to multiple antennas in the user equipment assistant system 202 in downlink transmission. The frequency signal f1 can be transmitted from the base station 220 to the antenna UA1 208C of the user equipment 208 and the antenna UA2 206C of the radio frequency assistant 206 via the path 1_f1 212 and the path 3_f1 214. The user equipment 208 may enable the operation of the radio frequency assistant 206 to convert the signal f1 received by the antenna UA2 206C into the signal f2. User device 208 retransmits or repeats the converted signal f2 over a short-range wireless link (path 5_f2 210). Radio frequency transmission over the wireless link (path 5_f2 210) between user equipment 208 and radio frequency assistant 206 is enabled by antenna AM1 208B and antenna AM2 206B, as depicted for illustrative purposes only. Will be done.

0030As depicted, the antenna AM1 208B is inside the user equipment assistant system 202 and functions to enable a wireless link (path 5_f2 210). In one embodiment, the antenna UA1 208C and the antenna AM1 208B can be a single antenna.

0031Focusing here on FIG. 3, a top-level system diagram 300 of a 2 × 2 multi-input multi-output wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. In the illustrated example, the user equipment assistant system 302 includes a user equipment 308 and a radio frequency assistant 306. The radio frequency assistant 306 may be present within the user equipment assistant system 302, but the radio frequency assistant 306 may optionally be activated by the user equipment 308. The user device 308 selectively enables the use of the radio frequency assistant 306.

0032In one embodiment, the user equipment 308 includes the functionality of the radio frequency assistant 306 and increases the diversity and power of the antennas by including a number of antennas such as the antennas UA1 308A and UA2 308C. It is possible to simultaneously transmit and receive multiple radio frequency signals across multiple routes such as, route 1_f1 312, route 2_f1 314, route 3_f1 316, and route 4_f1 318. As used in this disclosure, "many" refers to one or more items.

0033The user equipment 308 may selectively determine whether to activate or deactivate the use of the radio frequency assistant 306. In one exemplary embodiment, the user equipment 308 activates the radio frequency assistant 306 each time the user equipment 308 receives a radio frequency signal. In another embodiment, the user equipment 308 may activate and deactivate the radio frequency assistant 306 approximately every millisecond or on a subframe-by-frame basis. Other embodiments may be recognized by those skilled in the art.

0034The decision to selectively activate or deactivate the radio frequency assistant 306 may be based on whether the processing of the user equipment indicates that the assistant needs to be enabled, advantageous or possible. For example, without limitation, the user equipment 308 may use the radio frequency assistant 306 in the absence, the radio frequency assistant not functioning, or to increase the battery life of the user equipment 308 or the radio frequency assistant 306. The use of radio frequency assistant 306 may be stopped.

0035Conversely, if, for example, without limitation, the user equipment determines that the radio frequency signal is not being transmitted with sufficient power, or that battery life or battery savings are not important, then the user equipment 308 , Can activate the use of radio frequency assistant 306. Other scenarios or embodiments that result from the selective activation of radio frequency assistants will be recognized by those of skill in the art.

0036In one embodiment in which the user equipment 308 selectively activates the radio frequency assistant 306, the radio frequency assistant 306 receives a radio frequency signal via the antenna UA3 306C. The user equipment 308 controls a radio frequency assistant 306 with a command, which allows the radio frequency assistant 306 to convert the frequency of the radio frequency signal received on the antenna UA3 306C to a different frequency. .. The radio frequency assistant 306 retransmits or repeats the converted frequency to the user equipment 308. In an embodiment in which the radio frequency assistant 306 is not activated or used, the user equipment 308 implements the functionality of the radio frequency assistant 306 to receive and process all radio wave signals.

0037In one embodiment of the top-level system diagram 300, the radio frequency assistant 306 is stopped or disabled in the user equipment assistant system 302. Disabling the radio frequency assistant 306 disables the antenna UA3 306C. In downlink transmission, the antenna BA1 322 of the base station 320 transmits the radio wave of the first frequency f1 to the user equipment antenna UA1 308A via the path 1_f1 312 and the user equipment antenna UA2 308C via the path 3_f1 316. Send to. Similarly, base station antenna BA2 324 transmits radio waves of frequency f1 to user equipment antenna UA1 308A via path 2_f1 314 and to user equipment antenna UA2 308C across signal path 4_f1 318. The base station antenna BA1 322 and the base station antenna BA2 324 may transmit the same data to the user equipment antenna UA1 308A and the antenna UA2 308C, or different data may be transmitted.

0038In uplink transmission, the user equipment antenna UA1 308A transmits data in radio waves of frequency f1 to base station antenna BA1 322 via path 1_f1 312 and to base station antenna BA2 324 via path 2_f1 314. .. The user equipment antenna UA2 308C may transmit the same or different data as the user equipment antenna UA1 308A to the base station antenna BA1 322 via route 3_f1 316 and to the base station antenna BA2 324 via route 4_f1 318. ..

0039In one embodiment of the illustrated example of the top-level system diagram 300, the radio frequency assistant 306 is activated or activated within the user equipment system 302 by the user equipment 308. In downlink transmission, enabling Assistant 306 disables the user equipment antenna UA2 308C as a receiver for radio wave signals from base station 320 across the signal path (path 3_f1 316 and path 4_f1 318). It occurs as a result. Instead of the user equipment antenna UA2 308C receiving the radio wave signal, the enabled assistant 306 antenna UA3 306C is routed from base station antenna BA1 322 via route 6_f1 326 and from base station 320 BA2 324 to route 7_f1. The signal transmitted on the first radio frequency is received via the 328. The radio frequency assistant 306 converts the received signal to a second and different frequency f2 and transmits the converted signal to the user equipment 308 across the wireless links AM2 306B and AM1 308B.

0040Similarly, in uplink transmission, enabling radio frequency assistant 306 results in disabling the user equipment antenna UA2 308C as a transmitter for radio frequency signals to base station 320. Instead of the user equipment antenna UA2 308C transmitting the radio wave signal to base station 320, the radio wave signal is transmitted over a short range wireless link (path 5_f2 310) using a second frequency. Antenna AM1 308B and antenna AM2 306B function to enable the wireless link (path 5_f2 310). The radio frequency signal 306 then converts these signals to the first frequency f1 for transmission to base station 320 via path 6_f1 326 and path 7_f1 328.

0041The illustrations of FIGS. 1 to 3 are not meant to imply physical or structural limitations on aspects in which different advantageous embodiments may be implemented. Other components may be used in addition to or in place of the illustrated components. Some components may be unnecessary in some advantageous embodiments.

0042Here, with reference to FIG. 4, an example of communication system 400 is illustrated, which communication system 400 may implement an alternative embodiment of FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated example, the user equipment assistant system is extended to include a large number of user equipment and a single assistant, and the single assistant is configured over the network to work with many different user equipment. Can be done. The radio frequency assistant is configured to work with a single user device, but the radio frequency assistant can also be reconfigured to retransmit signals corresponding to other user devices. As used herein, as used herein, "many" refers to one or more items.

0043For example, in FIG. 4, a base station such as the base station 120 of FIG. 1 is represented by the wireless local area router 402. In this exemplary embodiment, two frequency bands, band 1 440 and band 2 450, are illustrated. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the number of bands is not limited to the number of illustrated bands. The number of bands can vary based on the implementation in alternative embodiments. A band is a continuous set of frequencies. For example, a contiguous set or range of frequencies from 1900 MHz (MHz) to 1980 MHz represents a contiguous set of frequencies in the 1900 MHz (MHz) band.

0044In the illustrated embodiment, band 1 440 includes a first frequency f1 and a second frequency f2. Band 2 450 includes a third frequency f3, a fourth frequency f4, and a control channel frequency. The wireless local area router 402 allocates frequency 1 of band 1 440 to user device 1, UE1 404, and frequency f2 of band 2 450 to user device 2, UE2 408.

0045In one exemplary embodiment, network 424 may assign a unique identification to radio frequency assistant 406 via wireless router 402, where wireless router 402 uses radio frequency assistant 406 in system 400 for operation. Pair with device 1, UE1 404. The unique identification can be, for example, without limitation, a number, a code, or any other identifier known to those of skill in the art. Commands and instructions are sent over the control channel between the user equipment UE1 404 and the paired radio frequency assistant 406, and the control channel is within each of the user equipment UE1 404 and the radio frequency assistant 406. Located and represented here as a single control channel 410.

0046The wireless router 402 signals at frequency 1 to user equipment 1 UE1 404 via signal path 1_f1 410 and signal path 2_f1 412, and to radio frequency assistant 406 via signal path 3_f1 416 and signal path 4_f1 426. Can be sent. Radio frequency assistant 406 uses band 2 450 to retransmit the signal. The radio frequency assistant 406 retransmits the first frequency f1 to the user equipment UE1 404 via signal path 5_f3 414.

0047In another exemplary embodiment, the wireless local area router 402 allocates frequency 2 of band 1 440 to user equipment 2 UE2 408. The wireless router 402 may also transmit frequency 2 to user equipment 2 UE2 408 via path 1_f2 422 and path 2_f2 420 of the signal, and to radio frequency assistant 406 via path 3_f2 417 and path 4_f2 427.

0048Network 424 may wirelessly send a request to user device UE1 404 over path 430, thereby configuring radio frequency assistant 406 to retransmit frequency 2 to user device 2, UE2 408. .. The radio frequency assistant 406 receives frequency 2 on path 3_f2 417 and path 4_f2 427 and retransmits the frequency 2 signal as a frequency 4 signal across path 6_f4 418.

0049These depicted examples illustrate the implementation of downlink transmission only from a base station, such as a wireless local area router 402, to a user device, such as a UE1 404. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, implementations are not limited to downlink transmissions, but may also be applicable to uplink transmissions, or transmissions from user equipment to base stations.

0050The illustration in FIG. 4 does not imply any physical or structural limitation on aspects in which different advantageous embodiments may be implemented. In an advantageous embodiment, for example, without limitation, the plurality of radio frequency assistants can be activated and controlled by one or more user devices.

0051In addition, other components may be used in addition to or in place of the illustrated components. Some components may be unnecessary in some advantageous embodiments. Blocks are also represented to illustrate functional components. One or more of these blocks, when implemented in different advantageous embodiments, can be combined with different blocks, divided into different blocks, or combined with different blocks and divided. Both can be done.

0052In FIG. 5, a detailed block diagram 500 of the user equipment assistant system is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the detailed block diagram 500, the user equipment assistant system 502 is an example of an implementation of the user equipment assistant system 102 as illustrated in the multi-input multi-output wireless communication system 100.

0053As illustrated, the user equipment assistant system 502 includes a plurality of components that act as terminal devices within a communication system, such as the communication system 100. In this exemplary embodiment, the user equipment assistant system 502 includes a user equipment 504 and a radio frequency assistant 540. User device 504 may include, for example, without limitation, wireless devices such as mobile phones, smartphones, laptop computers, personal digital assistants, or other such wireless mobile devices as may be known to those of skill in the art. ..

0054The user equipment assistant system 502 includes at least two antennas, the antenna UA1 504A and the antenna UA2 540A. Antenna UA1 504A is coupled to user equipment 504 to facilitate wireless communication, which transmits radio frequency signals from external networks (not shown) or base stations (not shown) and Including receiving. Antenna UA2 540A is coupled to Radio Frequency Assistant 540 to enable wireless communication, including transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals. Radio frequency signals can be received or transmitted via antenna UA1 504A and processed via primary transceiver 506. The primary transceiver 506 communicates with the external network via the antenna UA1 504A. In some embodiments, the external network is the Global System for Mobile. It can be a communications (GSM) network, or a cellular network such as another wireless communication network known to those of skill in the art. For example, the radio frequency signal may be transmitted from a base station such as base station 120 in FIG.

0055In downlink data transmission, the antenna UA1 504A of the user equipment 504 and the antenna UA2 540A of the radio frequency assistant 540 are configured to receive radio frequency signal transmission from the base station. The primary transceiver 506 processes the radio frequency signal received from the base station (not shown) via the UE baseband and control processor 510. The user equipment 504 may enable the radio frequency assistant 540 to process the radio frequency signal received via the antenna UA2 540A via the frequency converter 546.

0056The frequency converter 546 may include a frequency converter and amplifier 550 and a reference oscillator 548, which is an internal unit of the frequency converter 546. In some embodiments, an external reference oscillator 548 of frequency converter 546 may be used. The frequency converter and amplifier 550 convert the radio frequency signal into a second different radio frequency signal. The converted signal is transmitted wirelessly from the radio frequency assistant 540 to the secondary transceiver 508 of the user equipment 504. The secondary transceiver 508 of the user equipment 504 communicates with the radio frequency assistant 540 via the wireless link 520 between the antenna AM1 504B and the antenna AM2 540B. The secondary transceiver 508 is a radio frequency signal that is sent to the user equipment assistant system 502 and receives the radio frequency signal converted by the frequency converter 546 of the radio frequency assistant 540.

0057The control channel wireless link 530 between the antenna CC1 504C and the antenna CC2 540C is located inside the user equipment assistant system 502 and operates between the user equipment 504 and the radio frequency assistant 540, whereby the radio frequency assistant 540 Allows the user device 504 to send commands to control the operation of. The UE baseband and control processor 510 of the user equipment 504 may issue or send a number of operational commands to the radio frequency assistant 540 across the control channel wireless link 530, and these commands are processed by the microprocessor 544. To. The microprocessor 544 can process commands that enable the frequency converter and amplifier 550 and the reference oscillator 548, as required by the user equipment 504, thereby radio frequency that can be processed via the antenna UA2 540A. Convert frequency signals.

0058For example, user equipment 504 may send power_off signals or commands, which are processed by the UE baseband and control processor 510. The processed command is transmitted from the UE baseband and control processor 510 to the UE control channel modem 512. The UE control channel modem 512 wirelessly issues a power_off signal or command over the wireless link 530 between the antenna CC1 504C and the antenna CC2 540C, thereby turning on the radio frequency assistant 540. The assistant control channel modem 542 receives the power_off command and sends the power_off command to the microprocessor 544. The microprocessor 544 executes a command to turn off the frequency converter 546 and other operations of the radio frequency assistant 540.

0059In one or more advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure, the antenna CC1 504C and the antenna AM1 504B can function as a single antenna for receiving and transmitting signals. Alternatively, in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the antenna CC1 504C, the antenna AM1 504B, and the antenna UA1 504A may function as a single antenna for receiving and transmitting signals.

0060Further, in one or more advantageous embodiments of the present disclosure, the antenna CC2 540C and the antenna AM2 540B can function as a single antenna for receiving and transmitting signals. Alternatively, in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, the antenna CC2 540C, the antenna AM2 540B, and the antenna UA2 540A may function as a single antenna for receiving and transmitting signals.

0061In these depicted examples, the user equipment 504 may issue a number of different commands in addition to the power_off command to enable and control the radio frequency assistant 540. Commands are wirelessly communicated from the UE control channel modem 512 to the microprocessor 544 via the assistant control channel modem 542. The microprocessor 544 is coupled to the assistant control channel modem 542 to receive commands from the UE control channel modem 512 of the user equipment 504. As further described in the present disclosure, the microprocessor 544 controls a frequency converter and amplifier 550 to format and process commands and events, such commands and events changing frequency. , Changing the gain, turning it on, turning it off, and other such commands and events.

0062The assistant control channel modem 542 coordinates the communication transmission between the user equipment 504 and the radio frequency assistant 540. Communication transmission includes, without limitation, transmission and reception of information such as commands, radio frequency signals, and status messages between the user equipment 504 and the radio frequency assistant 540. The microprocessor 544 receives commands and radio frequency signals and adjusts the gain, frequency or power state of the frequency converter and amplifier 550. The microprocessor adjusts the reference frequency via the reference oscillator 548. The reference oscillator 548 provides the frequency converter and amplifier 550 with a reference frequency, and the frequency converter and amplifier 550 determines the conversion of the radio frequency signal from the first band to a different second band.

0063The frequency converter 546 may include a reference oscillator 548. In an advantageous embodiment, the frequency converter and amplifier 550 may function together with the reference oscillator 548 as a single physical unit such as frequency converter 546. In other embodiments, the reference oscillator 548 can be outside or outside the frequency converter 546. The microprocessor 544 adjusts the reference frequency via the reference oscillator 548. Frequency converter and amplifier 550 determine how gain and frequency are converted from one band to another.

0064With reference to FIG. 6, a detailed block diagram 600 of the user equipment assistant system 602 is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates the details of the user equipment assistant system 502 as illustrated in FIG. In FIG. 6, the user equipment system 602 details the communication of commands between the user equipment 604 and the radio frequency assistant 640.

0065In FIG. 6, the command control message is processed via the UE control channel modem 618 via a wireless link such as the wireless link 630 between antenna CC1 602C and antenna CC2 640C. The UE baseband and control processor 610 may issue commands, which are sent from the UE control channel modem 618 to the user equipment control channel modem 642 over the wireless link 630. In this exemplary example, the UE baseband and control processor 610 includes a communication module 612 and event logic 614.

0066Application module 616 may generate or enter commands or control messages to the UE baseband and control processor 610. Event logic 614 determines whether to receive commands, control messages, and radio frequency signals from communication module 612 and application module 616 and send commands or control messages to the UE control channel modem 618. The communication module 612 also receives data from the primary transceiver 606 and the secondary transceiver 608 and transmits the data to them. User equipment 604 receives and transmits data, commands, and radio frequency signals from the UE control channel modem 618 to the assistant control channel modem 642 over the wireless link 630 between antenna CC1 602C and antenna CC2 640C.

0067The microprocessor 644 receives a command signal from the assistant control channel modem 642 and processes the command signal via the command interpreter 648. The command determines which function of the frequency converter 650 is active. For example, the command may operate and control the frequency converter 650, thereby performing gain and frequency adjustments to the radio frequency assistant 640, which amplifies and modifies the frequency of the radio frequency signal. The microprocessor 644 may notify the receipt of processing of each command received from the user equipment 604 by transmitting a status message from the status logic 646 via the assistant control channel modem 642. The assistant control channel modem 642 wirelessly communicates status messages to the UE control channel modem 618, and the UE control channel modem 618 communicates information to the communication module for processing.

0068The status logic 646 may generate a status message in response to a status command request from user equipment 604. Status logic 646 can also automatically generate status messages based on triggers, such triggers, without limitation, an event that disables the frequency converter 650, a power-on or power-off event, or , Some other command, such as a command that the user device may need a receipt notification for.

0069The frequency converter 650 may include a number of components, such as the frequency converter and amplifier 550 and reference oscillator 548 as illustrated in FIG. The microprocessor 644 can control the operational status of the frequency converter 650. For example, microprocessor 644 turns frequency converter 650 on and off. The command from microprocessor 644 to frequency converter 650 can control the tuning of the reference oscillator inside the frequency converter, thereby modifying the channel, performing signal gain changes, and performing frequency changes. ..

0070Focusing now on FIG. 7, a state machine diagram 700 is depicted according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this illustrated example, the state machine 700 may be implemented for an assistant such as the radio frequency assistant (assistant) 640 in FIG.

0071As illustrated, the state machine 700 exemplifies multiple events, which can occur within the radio frequency assistant to transition, change, or maintain the state of the radio frequency assistant. In this exemplary example, the assistant has three states, shown as null 710, sleep 720 and active 730. The null 710 state is the basal state or the initial state from which all subsequent or additional actions occur. In the null 710 state, the assistant has no power and is not operational. In sleep 720 state, the assistant is operational and waits to execute a command. In the sleep 720 state, only the control channel modem and assistant microprocessor are on and operational. The assistant frequency converter is not powered on. The active 730 state indicates that the assistant is in operation and is responding to commands as instructed by a microprocessor such as microprocessor 544 in Figure 5. In the active 730 state, the frequency converter is operational and is actively converting radio frequency (RF) signals.

0072As illustrated, the arrows represent the transition from one state to another due to an event. An event is something that occurs that causes the assistant to transition from one state to another while an action is being performed, or is in the same state while an action is being performed. It can be defined as causing reentry.

0073First, focusing on the null 710 state of the state machine 700, the transition to the null 710 state, and the transition from the null 710 state, in one embodiment, the assistant is in the inoperable state or the null 710 state. An assistant in the null 710 state will not receive or process any commands because the assistant is off. The assistant becomes operational after being activated or powered on by the occurrence of a physical event.

0074For example, without limitation, an external switch on the assistant can be activated and the battery can be charged and physically installed in a radio frequency assistant or another such physical actuation part. The power_on 708 event transitions the assistant from the null 710 state to the sleep 720 state.

0075Similarly, the power_off event 706 or power_off 704 command can transition the assistant from sleep 720 state to null 710 state. In sleep 720 state, the assistant is on, waiting for an event to occur. During the sleep 720 state, the radio frequency assistant control channel modem may be transmitting and receiving commands and information. The power_off 704 command can be received by control channel mode. The power_off 704 command transitions the assistant from sleep 720 to null 710.

0076Similarly, power_off event 706 in sleep 720 state causes the assistant to transition from sleep 720 state to null 710 state. The power_off event 706 can be the occurrence of a physical event, which can toggle the power switch on the assistant, remove the battery to power off, or any other of that. It includes, but is not limited to, such actions. The power_off event 706 can also occur to move the assistant to the null 710 state if the assistant is in the active 730 state. In the active 730 state, the assistant is running and processing commands. A physical event, such as powering off the assistant through a switch or removing battery power in the assistant, causes the assistant's state machine to transition from an active 730 state to a null 710 state.

0077Focusing here on the sleep 720 state or mode of the state machine 700, the assistant control channel modem is operational and may respond to commands and information being received or transmitted. In the sleep 720 state, the assistant may receive a command to start processing from a user device such as the user device 604 of FIG. 6, and the assistant is configured to work with the user device.

0078The enable_assistant 724 command transitions the assistant from sleep 720 to active 730. In the active 730 state, the frequency converter is on and processes any signal transmitted. In some embodiments, the frequency converter processes the signal by converting the signal from a first frequency to a second frequency. In another embodiment, the frequency converter may process the signal by adjusting the gain of the signal. When the assistant receives the disable_assistant 726 command, it transitions from the active 730 state to the sleep 720 state.

0079The failure of the microprocessor in the assistant to activate the frequency converter, amplifier and reference oscillator causes the transformer_disabled 728 event, which causes the assistant to transition from sleep 720 state to active 730 state. The assistant notifies the receipt of all commands sent from the user device to the assistant. For example, without limitation, the user equipment may send the get_status 736 command to the assistant in the active 730 state. The assistant notifies the receipt of the get_status 736 command by sending a status message back to the user device and remaining in the assistant's existing active 730 state.

0080In sleep state 720, the assistant may also receive the get_status 722 command sent from the user device. In response to the get_status 722 command, the assistant provides its operational status to the user equipment and remains in sleep 720 state. The status message may contain information that may be useful to the user equipment, such information as, without limitation, the amount of battery power remaining for the assistant, the radio detected by the assistant's antenna. Frequency intensity or quantity, and other such information known to those of skill in the art.

0081Focusing here on the active 730 state, the assistant's control channel modem in this state receives and processes radio frequency signals, commands, and information via a microprocessor such as microprocessor 644 in FIG. Processing may include, without limitation, conversion of radio frequency signals by a frequency converter. In particular, the frequency converter and the amplifier block in the frequency converter convert the first frequency to the second frequency, adjust the gain level of the frequency converter, and other such actions known to those of skill in the art. Can be.

0082In the active 730 state, the change_channel 732 command can be sent to the assistant. Channels are specific frequency assignments in the band. The channel can also be referred to as a radio frequency signal. The user equipment changes the frequency channel as the case may be. The change_channel 732 command is sent by the user equipment, which sets the assistant's operating frequency to the same operating frequency and radio frequency band or channel as the user equipment. The change_channel 732 command is used for large frequency changes. For example, a large frequency change can refer to a step in channel frequency allocation for a given band, such a step can be an adjustment of about 200 kilohertz (kHz) or higher. The assistant remains in the active 730 state after processing the change_channel 732 command.

0083In the active 730 state, the user equipment may send a change_signal_gain 734 command to the assistant to adjust the capabilities of the frequency converter, amplifier and reference oscillator, thereby processing the incoming signal at a particular power level. This incoming signal is also processed by the user equipment. The assistant remains in the active 730 state after processing the change_signal_gain 734 command.

0084In the active 730 state, the change_frequency 738 command can also be sent by the user equipment to adjust the assistant's radio frequency. The assistant may maintain a reference frequency separate from the reference frequency of the base station and user equipment. The assistant reference frequency may need to be adjusted by the user equipment so that it is within the same frequency margin of error required by the user equipment. The assistant's reference frequency can be adjusted via a frequency converter.

0085The change_frequency 738 command is used for small frequency adjustments between the user equipment and the assistant. For example, a small frequency offset of about 500 Hz (Hz) or less between the assistant and the user equipment can be detected by the baseband and control processor. In response, the user equipment may send a change_frequency 738 command to the assistant to adjust the frequency. The assistant remains in the active 730 state after processing the change_frequency 738 command.

0086FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic of a state table 800 that provides details of the radio frequency assistant (assistant) state machine of FIG. 5 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this illustrated example, the assistant state table illustrates three major states, such as the null 810 state, the sleep 820 state, and the active 830 state.

0087The state table 800 describes 10 commands or events, which are the actions or procedures that occur to cause a change in the assistant's state. The Ignore 860 item indicates that the state is unaware of the command or event and therefore no state or action change associated with the state change occurs. In these illustrated examples, the number of states, the number of commands, and the number of events as illustrated in Figure 8 are implementations that depend on the number of illustrated states and events, and to such numbers. Not limited.

0088The commands are, without limitation, ENABLE_ASSISTANT 846, CHANGE_CHANNEL 848, GET_STATUS 852, POWER_OFF 840, CHANGE_SIGNAL_GAIN 850, CHANGE_FREQUENCY 854, DISABLE_ASSISTANT 856 and TRANSFORMER_DISABLED 858. The events are, without limitation, POWER_OFF event 842 and POWER_ON event 844.

0089In the null 810 state or mode, the assistant's control channel modem is off and cannot process or respond to any command. Therefore, any command that needs to be processed through the assistant control channel modem is not ignored or evaluated. In the null 810 state or mode, the assistant responds to POWER_ON event 844. POWER_ON event 844 can be a button or switch that is toggled or flipped on the assistant. POWER_ON event 844 can also occur, for example, when a fully charged battery is installed or equipped in the assistant. POWER_ON event 844 turns the assistant into an operational state where it can handle all commands and events through the assistant's control channel modem. POWER_ON event 844 puts the assistant into sleep 820 state.

0090Here, referring to the sleep 820 state, the power-off command, the POWER_OFF 840 and the power-off event, the POWER_OFF event 842 turns off the assistant and transitions the assistant's state machine from sleep 820 to null 810. In the sleep 820 state, the assistant microprocessor may be able to operate in a low, slow duty cycle mode. The microprocessor may check the assistant control channel modem at periodic intervals, thereby determining if there are any commands or messages that the assistant needs to initiate receiving and converting radio frequency signals.

0091For example, the ENABLE_ASSISTANT 846 command received by the assistant control channel modem activates the frequency converter 868, which allows the assistant to receive and convert radio frequency signals. The ENABLE_ASSISTANT 846 command transitions the assistant from sleep 820 to active 830.

0092The assistant may automatically send a receipt notification for each command received and processed by the assistant control channel modem. The user device can also send the GET_STATUS 852 command to check the status of the assistant. The GET_STATUS 852 command is processed through the assistant control channel modem and causes the microprocessor to perform the action of sending a status message 870. Send Status Message The 870 sends back the current status of the assistant state machine to the user equipment. The assistant remains in its current state after performing the action of sending a status message 870. For example, in sleep 820 state, the action of sending a status message 870 leaves the assistant in sleep 820 state. In the active 830 state, the action of sending a status message 870 leaves the assistant in the active 830 state.

0093In the active 830 state, the assistant control channel modem receives commands and information from the user equipment for processing by the assistant microprocessor. In the active 830 state, POWER_OFF event 842 causes the microprocessor to perform the action of turning off the assistant to turn it off. POWER_OFF event 842 transitions the assistant to the null 810 state. The action of the Assistant Off 864 disables the Assistant Channel Control Modem from receiving any command or information.

0094In the active 830 state, the CHANGE_CHANNEL 848 command causes the microprocessor to perform the action of adjusting the frequency converter channel 880. The microprocessor may change channels by adjusting the frequency of the frequency converter. The assistant remains in the active 830 state after completing the microprocessor action of the frequency converter 870.

0095The change_signal_gain 850 command causes the microprocessor to adjust the gain level of the frequency converter 876. Especially in frequency converters, the microprocessor adjusts the levels of frequency converters and amplifiers to transmit signals at a particular power level. The assistant remains in the active 830 state after the frequency converter is activated and the microprocessor operation of the 876 is complete.

0096The CHANGE_FREQUENCY 854 command causes the microprocessor to adjust the reference oscillator frequency of the frequency converter. The assistant remains in the active 830 state after the action of adjusting the reference oscillator frequency 872 is complete.

0097The DISABLE_ASSISTANT 856 command causes the microprocessor to turn off the frequency converter by performing the action of disabling the frequency oscillator 874. The assistant control channel modem remains ready to receive commands and information as the assistant transitions from active 830 to sleep 820.

0098In active state 830, the GET_STATUS 852 command can result in the user equipment receiving a status message providing information that the frequency converter is not enabled. For example, the ENABLE_ASSISTANT 846 command may be sent from the user equipment via an assistant control channel modem for processing by the microprocessor.

0099However, in some cases TRANSFORMER_DISABLED event 858 can occur. The TRANSFORMER_DISABLED event 858 occurs because the microprocessor fails to perform the action of the frequency converter 868. For example, without limitation, the action of the operating frequency converter 868 can occur because the battery level is too low for the converter to function. In response to this failure, the microprocessor sends a converter disable status message 878 to notify the user equipment of the failure to activate the frequency converter. The converter invalidation status message 878 may be automatically sent to the user equipment in response to the GET_STATUS 852 command or in response to the processing of TRANSFORMER_DISABLED event 858 by the microprocessor. The TRANSFORMER_DISABLED event 858 transitions the assistant from the sleep 820 state to the active 830 state.

0100FIG. 9 is a flowchart 900 comprising a partial view detailing the operation of a user assistant system in a wireless communication system, FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated partial views of FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, Flowchart 900 details the functional operation of the user equipment assistant system (eg, user equipment assistant system 502 of FIG. 5) and the user equipment. The assistant system includes a user device (UE) 504 and a radio frequency assistant (assistant) 540. Flowchart 900 details the control and management operations of the user equipment with respect to the assistant. The operating processes described in the blocks of Flowchart 900 are not intended to be limited to the illustrated processes. Other variations on the process may be possible to be recognized by those skilled in the art.

0101First referring to Figure 9A, the user equipment may continuously poll or check the assistant to determine the operational status of the assistant. The assistant may be inactive or may be in a null state (eg, null 710 state), where no commands are processed. The assistant can be in sleep state (eg, sleep 720 state) and is ready to process commands. The assistant can be in the active state (eg, the active 730 state), can operate, and can respond to commands. At block 902, the user equipment sends a GET_STATUS command to the assistant to determine if the assistant control channel modem is working and ready to accept the command and waits for a response from the assistant. At block 904, the user equipment determines whether the assistant has sent a status in response to the GET_STATUS command.

0102The user device may not receive status from the assistant. At block 906, the user equipment determines that communication between the user equipment and the assistant is not possible and may warn the user of the assistant's non-operation status. Communication may not be possible between the user device and the assistant because the assistant can be powered off or otherwise disabled. Manual user mediation may be required to perform the POWER_ON event to activate the assistant.

0103A check is made in block 908 to determine if the assistant is in sleep or mode in response to a status response received from the assistant. In sleep mode, the assistant behaves and is ready to accept commands and other information. The decision that the assistant is in sleep moves the process to block 912, where it is determined if there is a request for data transfer.

0104The determination that the assistant is not in sleep means that the assistant is active and the frequency converter is on and working. In the active state, the user equipment may send the DISABLE_ASSISTANT command to the assistant at block 910. The DISABLE_ASSISTANT command turns off or disables the frequency converter and puts the assistant to sleep. From sleep, the user equipment baseband and control processor check for data transfer requests in block 912.

0105A request for data transfer in block 912 checks the communication module (eg, communication module 612 in Figure 6) and a data transfer request is pending for the wireless network requesting the activation or activation of the assistant control channel modem. Determine if there is.

0106In response to the decision that the data transfer request is not pending, in block 914 it is determined whether the assistant should be turned off or powered down. The assistant can be turned off in connection with the user equipment being powered off or powered down. The assistant may be powered down via a command sent from the user equipment via the assistant's control channel modem. The microprocessor processes commands to turn off or power down the assistant.

0107For example, in response to a decision that the assistant should be powered down, at block 916, a POWER_OFF command is sent to the assistant, which is turned off. In another embodiment, the assistant may also be powered down by a power-off event.

0108It can be determined that the assistant is not required to power down. In block 914, in response to the decision that the assistant is not requested to power down, the process returns to block 902, sends a GET_STATUS command to the assistant, and monitors the assistant's status by waiting for a response.

0109At block 912, the user equipment may determine that there is an active radio request for data transfer requesting the activation of the assistant. Here, referring to FIG. 9B, in block 920, the criterion for the operation of the assistant is checked. Criteria for assistant activation include, but are not limited to, signal quality metrics, data throughput requirements and similar criteria.

0110For example, radio frequency signals can be actively transmitted over a wireless radio link between a user device and a base station, but the quality or strength of the radio frequency signals deteriorates below a predetermined threshold. For example, the quality of radio frequency signals can be adversely affected or degraded during transmission by noise, external interference, or other factors known to those of skill in the art. The user equipment may decide that the assistant is always used or enabled below this threshold of signal quality. The user equipment monitors the signal quality to determine if assistant activation is required.

0111A decision can be made by the user equipment to activate the assistant. The assistant may be activated by the user equipment and receive the same radio frequency signal transmitted to the user equipment. The assistant amplifies the radio frequency signal and converts the radio frequency signal into a second radio frequency for transmission to the user equipment. In one embodiment, the data transfer request may require the activation of an assistant. In such cases, the initiation of the data transfer triggers the request and activates the assistant.

0112Block 920's determination that the criteria for assistant activation are met provides additional verification in block 922 to determine whether the assistant is active or not. The user equipment's determination in block 922 that the assistant is active causes the operation regarding the request for data transfer to continue in block 928 with multiple checks and verifications. At block 930, the user equipment can verify that the assistant's channel settings are accurate and adjust the channel settings by sending a CHANGE_CHANNEL command to the assistant at block 936. At block 932, the user equipment may check the assistant's signal level setting. The CHANGE_SIGNAL_GAIN command can be sent to the assistant control channel model at block 940 to adjust the signal gain level. At block 934, the user equipment verifies whether the assistant frequency offset is within the reference frequency of the user equipment. A command to adjust the frequency offset, CHANGE_FREQUENCY, may be sent to the assistant in block 944.

0113The user equipment may check the assistant's processing after each command is processed by the microprocessor via the control channel modem. The user equipment may determine that status information from the assistant is required in Figure 9C (block 970). For example, the user equipment may request status information as to whether the command sent to the assistant control modem was successfully executed on the assistant.

0114The commands include a command to check the assistant's channel settings in block 930, a command to check the signal level from the assistant in block 932, and a command to determine if the frequency offset of the frequency converter is within a particular target. Obtain, but are not limited to these. The user device sends a GET_STATUS command to the assistant in block 972. Status can be received from the assistant at block 974. Whether a decision is made in block 980 and the data transfer can be terminated in block 982, or in block 920 the assistant is continuously polled or checked to meet the criteria for assistant activation. Can be determined.

0115The user equipment verifies whether the command to verify the operation of the assistant frequency converter was executed correctly in blocks 938, 942 and 946. Incorrect enforcement of the command can cause the user equipment to disable the assistant's processing. At block 948, the user device sends the DISABLE_ASSISTANT command to disable the frequency converter and put the assistant to sleep. The process follows Figure 9C in block 960, where the user equipment verifies whether the technology used requires the use of an assistant.

0116In FIG. 9B, the determination that the assistant is inactive in block 922 may attempt to activate the assistant in block 924 by sending the ENABLE_ASSISTANT command to the user equipment. The user equipment verifies the success of the ENABLE_ASSISTANT command in block 926 by determining whether the assistant is running. The assistant, which is a working assistant, allows the user equipment assistant system to continue data transfer at block 928.

0117In Figure 9C, an assistant activation failure causes the user equipment to verify in block 960 whether the technology being used requires the use of an assistant. The decision that the technology used requires an assistant results in the data transfer being completed in block 982. The decision that the technology used does not require an assistant causes data transfer to continue at block 962.

0118Returning to FIG. 9B, in block 920, the determination that the criteria for assistant activation are not met results in the process shifting to block 950. At block 950, additional validation is done to determine if the assistant is active or working. The determination that the assistant is active in block 950 causes the user equipment to send the DISABLE_ASSISTANT command to the assistant in block 952. At block 980, the user equipment either terminates the data transfer at block 982 or continuously polls or checks the assistant at block 920 to determine if the criteria for assistant activation are met. Decide whether or not.

0119At block 950, the decision that the assistant is inactive results in data transfer continuing at block 962. Whether to terminate the data transfer in block 982 or continuously poll or check the assistant in block 920 to determine if the criteria for assistant activation are met in block 980. decide.

0120Processing may be completed in block 982 by the end of the data transfer. Upon completion of processing in block 982, the user equipment returns in block 902 for the user equipment to check the status of the assistant.

0121Here, with reference to FIG. 10, a block diagram of the user device 1000 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The user device 1000 can be a mobile wireless communication device that can function as a smartphone (eg, a mobile cellular device, referred to herein as a mobile device), which device can be configured in accordance with information technology (IT) policies. The user equipment 1000 may be configured to include the full functionality of the user equipment assistant system (eg, the user equipment assistant system depicted in Example 102 of FIG. 1).

0122User equipment 1000 includes a communication element within communication subsystem 1022, which is configured to perform radio frequency translation functions similar to radio frequency assistants (eg, radio frequency assistant 106 in FIG. 1). Can be done. Antenna system 1024 can be configured to support multi-input, multi-output technology. Antenna system 1024 may include multiple antennas for simultaneous transmission of radio frequency signals.

0123The term "information technology" generally refers to a set of information technology rules, in which information technology policy rules are grouped or ungrouped, global or per-user. Can be defined as one of the things. The terms "grouping", "ungrouping", "global" and "per user" are further defined below. Examples of applicable communication devices are pagers, mobile cellular phones, cellular smartphones, wireless organizers, personal digital assistance, computers, laptops, handheld wireless communication devices, wirelessly capable notebook computers and other communication devices such as this. including.

0124Mobile devices are bidirectional communication devices with advanced data communication capabilities, including the ability to communicate over networks of other mobile devices, computer systems, assistants and transceivers. In FIG. 10, the mobile device includes a plurality of components (eg, the main processor 1034 that controls the entire operation of the user device 1000). The communication function is performed via the communication subsystem 1022. Communication subsystem 1022 receives a message from wireless network 1026 and sends the message to wireless network 1026 over wireless link 1050.

0125Communication subsystem 1022 provides communication between the mobile device 1000 and a different system or device (eg, antenna system 1024) without using the wireless network 1026. For example, communication subsystem 1022 may include infrared devices and related circuits and components for short-range communication. Examples of short-range communication standards include standards developed by the Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Bluetooth, and a set of 802.11 standards developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Short-range communications may include, for example, radio frequency signals within the 2.4 GHz band or 5.8 GHz band without limitation.

0126In an exemplary embodiment of a mobile device, the communication subsystem 1022 is configured according to the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) and General Packet Radio Services (GPRS) standards. GSM / GPRS wireless networks are used worldwide and these standards are, for example, Evolved Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EEDGE) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS), High Speed Packet Access, without limitation, in the end. It is expected to be superseded by (HSPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE) and other standards applicable to multi-input and multi-output technologies. Although the new standard is still defined, it is believed that the new standard will have similarities to the network behavior described herein, and any embodiment described herein will be developed in the future. Those skilled in the art understand that it is intended to use other suitable standards.

0127The wireless link 1050, which connects the communications subsystem to the wireless network 1026, represents one or more different radio frequency (RF) channels that operate according to defined protocols specific to GSM / GPRS communications. Newer network protocols allow these channels to support both circuit-switched voice and packet-switched data communications. The communication system (eg, the user equipment assistant system 502 of FIG. 5) is implemented by the antenna system 1024 of communication subsystem 1022. The user equipment assistant system 502 is implemented between the network 1026 and the main processor 1034, allowing mobile devices to have higher data rates and higher throughput.

0128The wireless network 1026 associated with the mobile device 1000 can be a GSM / GPRS / EDGE wireless network in one exemplary implementation, but other wireless networks can also be associated with the mobile device 1000 in a different implementation. Examples of these networks are Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or CDMA2000 networks, GSM / GPRS / EDGE networks (as described above), 3rd generation (3G) networks (eg UMTS, HSPA) and future numbers. Includes, but is not limited to, 4th generation (4G) networks such as LTE and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMax).

0129The main processor 1034 also has additional subsystems (eg, random access memory (RAM) 1020, flash memory 1018, display 1016, auxiliary input / output (I / O) 1038 subsystem, data port 1040, keyboard 1042, speakers. Interacts with 1044, microphone 1046 and other device subsystems 1036).

0130Some of the mobile device 1000 subsystems perform communication-related functions, while other subsystems may provide "resident" or on-device functions. As an example, display 1016 and keyboard 1042 are used for both communication-related functions (eg, entering text messages for transmission over network 1026) and device-resident functions (eg, computer or task list). obtain.

0131After completing the required network registration or operating procedure, the mobile device 1000 may send and receive communication signals over the wireless network 1026. Network access pertains to mobile device subscribers or users. To identify the subscriber, the mobile device 1000 requires a subscriber identification module or a removable user identification module (SIM / RUIM module 1014) that is inserted into the SIM / RUIM interface 1028 to communicate with the network. The SIM / RUIM module 1014 is a type of traditional "smart card" that can be used, in particular, to identify the subscribers of the mobile device 1000 and to personalize the mobile device 1000. Without the SIM / RUIM module 1014, the mobile device 1000 would not work perfectly to communicate with the wireless network 1026.

0132By inserting the SIM / RUIM module 1014 into the SIM / RUIM interface 1028, the subscriber can access all subscribed services. Services may include web browsing and message sending (eg, email, voice mail short message service (SMS) and multimedia messaging service (MMS)). More advanced services may include sales floor methods, local services and sales force automation. SIM / RUIM module 1014 includes a processor and memory for storing information. Once the SIM / RUIM module 1014 is inserted into the SIM / RUIM interface 1028, the SIM / RUIM module 1014 is coupled to the main processor 1034. To identify the subscriber, the SIM / RUIM module 1014 may include several user parameters (eg, International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)).

0133The advantage of using the SIM / RUIM module 1014 is that the subscriber is not necessarily tied to any single physical mobile device. The SIM / RUIM module 1014 may also store additional subscriber information for mobile devices, including notebook (or calendar) information and up-to-date call information. Alternatively, the user identification information can also be programmed into flash memory 1018. The mobile device 1000 is a battery-powered device that includes a battery interface 1032 for receiving one or more rechargeable batteries 1032. In at least some embodiments, the battery 1032 can be a small battery with an embedded microprocessor. The battery interface 1030 is connected to a regulator (not shown), which assists the battery 1032 in providing power V + to the mobile device 1000. Current technology utilizes batteries, but future technologies (eg, microfuel cells) may provide power to the mobile device 1000.

0134The mobile device 1000 also includes an operating system 1002 and software components 1004 to 1012, which are described in more detail below. The operating system 1002 and the software components 1004 to 1012 executed by the main processor 1034 are typically stored in a persistent storage device (eg, flash memory 1018), which is an alternative read-only memory (ROM). ) Or a similar storage element (not shown). Those skilled in the art recognize that parts of operating system 1002 and software components 1004-1012 (eg, specific device applications or parts thereof) may be temporarily loaded into a volatile containment device (eg, RAM 1020). .. Other software components may also be included as known to those of skill in the art.

0135A subset of software applications 1036, antenna systems 1024 and communication subsystem 1022 applications, which control basic device behavior (including data and voice communication applications), are typically installed on the mobile device 1000 during manufacturing. Other software applications include message application 1004, which can be any suitable software program that allows users of mobile device 1000 to send and receive electronic messages.

0136As is well known to those skilled in the art, various alternatives exist for the message application 1004. Messages sent and received by the user are typically stored in flash memory 1018 on the mobile device 1000 or some other suitable storage element on the mobile device 1000. In at least some embodiments, some of the messages sent and received may be stored remotely on the device 1000 (eg, in the data storage device of the associated host system with which the mobile device 1000 communicates).

0137The software application may further include a device state module 1006, a personal information manager (PIM) 1008 and other suitable modules (not shown). The device state module 1006 provides persistence, which ensures that the device state module 1006 stores important device data in persistent memory (eg, flash memory 1018), and as a result, the data. Means that even if the mobile device 1000 is turned off or loses power.

0138PIM 1008 includes the ability to edit and manage data items of interest to users, including but limited to email, contacts, calendar events, voicemail, appointments and task items. Not done. The PIM application has the ability to send and receive data items over the wireless network 1026. PIM data items can be seamlessly integrated, synchronized, and synchronized with data items that correspond to mobile device subscriber data items stored or associated with the host computer system via wireless network 1026. Can be updated. This feature creates a mirror computer on the mobile device 1000 for such items. This can be particularly advantageous if the host computer system is the mobile device subscriber's office computer system.

0139The mobile device 1000 also includes a connectivity module 1010 and an information technology (IT) policy module 1012. The connectivity module 1010 implements the communication protocol required of the mobile device 1000 to communicate with the wireless infrastructure and any host system (eg, corporate system) that the mobile device 1000 is authenticated to interface with.

0140Connection module 1010 includes a set of application programming interfaces (APIs) that integrate with the mobile device 1000 so that the mobile device 1000 uses any number of services associated with the corporate system. Can be made possible. The connectivity module 1010 allows the mobile device 1000 to establish a communication pipe with an authenticated host system that is secure end-to-end. A subset of the applications provided by connectivity module 1010 can be used to pass IT policies from the host system to the mobile device 1000. This can be done in a wireless or wired manner. These instructions are then passed to IT Policy Module 1012, which may modify the configuration of device 1000. Alternatively, in some cases, IT policy updates can also be made via wired connections.

0141The IT policy module 1012 receives IT policy data that encodes the IT policy. The IT policy module 1012 then ensures that the IT policy data is authenticated by the mobile device 1000. IT policy data can then be stored in flash memory 1018 in its original form. After the IT policy data is stored, global notifications can be sent by the IT policy module 1012 to all applications residing on the mobile device 1000. Applications to which IT policies may be applicable respond by reading IT policy data to look for applicable IT policy rules.

0142Other types of software applications may also be installed on the mobile device 1000. These software applications can be third party applications and they will be added after the mobile device 1000 is manufactured. Examples of third-party applications include games, computers, utilities, and other similar applications known to those of skill in the art.

0143Additional applications may be loaded onto the mobile device 1000 via wireless network 1026, auxiliary I / O 1038 subsystem, data port 1040, communication subsystem 1022, or any other suitable device subsystem 1036. This flexibility in application installation can enhance the capabilities of the Mobile Device 1000 to provide enhanced on-device capabilities, communication-related features, or both. For example, a secure communication application may enable such financial transactions to be made using the e-commerce function and the mobile device 1000.

0144Data port 1040 allows subscribers to set preferences via external devices or software applications, and the capabilities of mobile device 1000 by providing information or software downloads to mobile device 1000 outside of wireless communication networks. To extend. Alternative download paths are used, for example, to load the encryption key onto the mobile device 1000 over a direct, resulting reliable and trusted connection to provide secure device communication. obtain.

0145Data port 1040 can be any suitable port that allows data communication between the mobile device 1000 and another computing device. Data port 1040 can be a serial port or a parallel port. In some examples, the data port 1040 may include a USB port, which includes a data line for data transfer and a supply line that may provide a charging current to charge the battery 1032 of the mobile device 1000. ..

0146During operation, received signals such as text messages, email messages, and web page downloads are processed by the communication subsystem 1022 and input to the main processor 1034. The main processor 1034 then processes the received signal for output to display 1016 or optionally auxiliary I / O subsystem 1038. Subscribers may also organize data items (eg, email messages) using keyboard 1042 in association with display 1016 and possibly auxiliary I / O subsystem 1038. Auxiliary I / O subsystem 1038 may include a device (eg, a touch screen, mouse, trackball, infrared fingerprint detector, or roller wheel with dynamic button press capability). Keyboard 1042 is preferably an alphanumeric keyboard with or without a telephone keypad. However, other types of keyboards may also be used. The organized data items may be transmitted over the wireless network 1026 via the communication subsystem 1022.

0147For voice communication, the overall operation of the mobile device 1000 is substantially similar except that the received signal is output to the speaker 1044 and the signal for transmission is generated by the microphone 1046. Alternative voice or audio I / O subsystems (such as a voice message recording subsystem) also could be implemented on the mobile device 1000 over that. Voice or audio signal output is primarily achieved through the speaker 1044, but the display 1016 also provides additional information (eg, callee identification, voice call duration, or other voice call related information). Can be used to provide.

0148Although some embodiments are provided in the present disclosure, it is understood that the systems and methods of the present disclosure can be embodied in many other specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. It should be. This example is exemplary and should not be considered as limiting, and is not intended to be limited to the details given herein.

0149In one embodiment, implementations of the techniques described in the present disclosure may include computer-readable media of instructions that can be executed by a processor. Examples of computer-readable media include recordable media (eg, floppy (registered trademark) disks, optical disc drives, RAM, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs), and transmissive media (eg, digital and analog communication links, etc.). Includes wired or wireless communication links using transmission formats (eg, radio frequency and lightwave transmission). In another embodiment, the computer-readable medium may take the form of a complex, encoded format for practical use in a particular data processing system. For example, the instruction may include microcode, hardwired control or a combination thereof. Other implementations will be recognized by those skilled in the art.

0150One or more embodiments selected are chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiment, the practical application, and to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosures for the various embodiments. It will be explained and various modifications suitable for a particular use are hereby made. For example, various elements or components may be combined, integrated in another system, or certain features may be omitted or unintentional.

0151Also, the techniques, systems and subsystems described and exemplified in various embodiments may be combined with or integrated with other systems, modules or techniques without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. .. Other items that are shown or discussed to be combined or directly combined, or that communicate with each other, may have some other interface, device, or intermediate component, electrically, mechanically, or otherwise. Can be indirectly combined or communicated through. Examples of variants, exchanges, and alternatives can be identified by those skilled in the art and can be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein.

0152102 User Equipment Assistant System 108 User equipment 120 base station 122 Base station antenna 124 Base station antenna