U.S. patent application number 13/240981 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-12 for signaling and management of broadcast-multicast waveform embedded in a unicast waveform.
This patent application is currently assigned to QUALCOMM Incorporated. Invention is credited to Parag A. Agashe, Ragulan Sinnarajah, Fatih Ulupinar.
Application Number | 20120008625 13/240981 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40293857 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120008625 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ulupinar; Fatih ; et
al. |
January 12, 2012 |
SIGNALING AND MANAGEMENT OF BROADCAST-MULTICAST WAVEFORM EMBEDDED
IN A UNICAST WAVEFORM
Abstract
Embodiments describe overlaying a broadcast multicast channel on
top of a unicast network. Messages can be generated by protocols in
a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and tunneled through an IRTP of
a serving access node. These messages can be transmitted on a BCMC
channel and/or a unicast channel. Other messages can be generated
by protocols in a unicast stack and tunneled to a B-IRTP of a BCMC
Access node and transmitted on a BCMC channel to an access
terminal.
Inventors: |
Ulupinar; Fatih; (San Diego,
CA) ; Agashe; Parag A.; (San Diego, CA) ;
Sinnarajah; Ragulan; (Markham, CA) |
Assignee: |
QUALCOMM Incorporated
San Diego
CA
|
Family ID: |
40293857 |
Appl. No.: |
13/240981 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12053583 |
Mar 22, 2008 |
|
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13240981 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
370/390 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 28/065 20130101;
H04L 1/0009 20130101; H04W 4/06 20130101; H04L 12/189 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
370/390 |
International
Class: |
H04L 12/56 20060101
H04L012/56 |
Claims
1. A method for tunneling multi-user packets of a unicast waveform
over a broadcast-multicast waveform, comprising: generating a
message though protocols in a unicast stack associated with an
access node; tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast
(BCMC) Access Node; and transmitting the message on a BCMC channel
to an access terminal for output to a user, wherein the access node
and the BCMC Access Node communicate over an IOS interface.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: routing the message
through a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access Node before
transmitting the message.
3. The method of claim 1, transmitting the message is based on an
AN-centric model, wherein a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained per access node.
4. The method of claim 1, transmitting the message is based on a
region-centric model, wherein a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained regionally.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the message is transmitted on a
broadcast physical channel.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: setting a type field
in a Broadcast Packet Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header to
indicate that the message is a BCMC signaling message, wherein the
B-PCP performs framing of higher layer packets.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: setting a begin field
of the B-PCP to indicate a first fragment of the higher layer
packet; and setting an end field of the B-PCP to indicate a last
fragment of the higher layer packet.
8. A wireless communications apparatus, comprising: a memory that
retains instructions related to generating a message though
protocols in a unicast stack associated with an access node,
tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route
Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access
Node, and transmitting the message on a BCMC channel to an access
terminal for output to a user, wherein the access node and the BCMC
Access Node communicate over an IOS interface; and a processor,
coupled to the memory, configured to execute the instructions
retained in the memory.
9. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, the memory
further retains instructions related to routing the message through
a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access Node before transmitting the
message.
10. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein
transmitting the message is based on an AN-centric model, wherein a
MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained per access node.
11. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein
transmitting the message is based on a region-centric model,
wherein a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained
regionally.
12. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein the
message is transmitted on a broadcast physical channel.
13. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, the memory
further retains instructions relating to setting a type field in a
Broadcast Packet Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header to indicate
that the message is a BCMC signaling message, wherein the B-PCP
performs framing of higher layer packets.
14. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 13, the memory
further retains instructions relating to setting a begin field of
the B-PCP to indicate a first fragment of the higher layer packet
and setting an end field of the B-PCP to indicate a last fragment
of the higher layer packet.
15. A wireless communications apparatus that tunnels multi-user
packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast waveform,
comprising: means for generating a message though protocols in a
unicast stack associated with an access node; means for tunneling
the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol
(B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access Node; and means for
transmitting the message on a BCMC channel to an access terminal
for output to a user, wherein the access node and the BCMC Access
Node communicate over an IOS interface.
16. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 15, further
comprising: means for routing the message through a
B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access Node before transmitting the
message.
17. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 15, the means
for transmitting the message transmits the message based on an
AN-centric model, wherein a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained per access node.
18. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 15, the means
for transmitting the message transmits the message based on a
region-centric model, wherein a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained regionally.
19. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 15, wherein the
message is transmitted on a broadcast physical channel.
20. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 15, further
comprising: means for setting a type field in a Broadcast Packet
Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header to indicate that the message
is a BCMC signaling message, wherein the B-PCP performs framing of
higher layer packets; means for setting a begin field of the B-PCP
to indicate a first fragment of the higher layer packet; and means
for setting an end field of the B-PCP to indicate a last fragment
of the higher layer packet.
21. A machine-readable medium having stored thereon
machine-executable instructions for tunneling multi-user packets of
a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast waveform, comprising:
generating a message though protocols in a unicast stack associated
with an access node; tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast
(BCMC) Access Node; routing the message through a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY
of the BCMC Access Node; and transmitting the message on a BCMC
channel to an access terminal for output to a user, wherein the
access node and the BCMC Access Node communicate over an IOS
interface.
22. The machine-readable medium of claim 21, wherein transmitting
the message is based on an AN-centric model, wherein a
MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained per access node.
23. The machine-readable medium of claim 21, wherein transmitting
the message is based on a region-centric model, wherein a
MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained regionally.
24. The machine-readable medium of claim 21, the instructions
further comprising: setting a type field in a Broadcast Packet
Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header to indicate that the message
is a BCMC signaling message, wherein the B-PCP performs framing of
higher layer packets; setting a begin field of the B-PCP to
indicate a first fragment of the higher layer packet; and setting
an end field of the B-PCP to indicate a last fragment of the higher
layer packet.
25. In a wireless communications system, an apparatus comprising: a
processor configured to: generate a message though protocols in a
unicast stack associated with an access node; tunnel the message to
a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access Node; route the message through a
B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access Node; and transmit the message
on a BCMC channel to an access terminal for output to a user,
wherein the access node and the BCMC Access Node communicate over
an IOS interface.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present Application for Patent is a divisional of patent
application Ser. No. 12/053,583 entitled "Signaling and management
of broadcast-multicast waveform embedded in a unicast waveform"
filed Mar. 22, 2008 and assigned to the assignee hereof and
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] I. Field
[0003] The following description relates generally to communication
systems and more particularly to communicating broadcast-multicast
waveforms.
[0004] II. Background
[0005] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to
provide various types of communication content such as voice, data,
and so on. These systems may be multiple-access systems capable of
supporting communication with multiple users by sharing the
available system resources (e.g., bandwidth and transmit power).
Examples of such multiple-access systems include code division
multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access
(TDMA) systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems,
orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems, and
other systems.
[0006] Wireless communication systems have become a prevalent means
by which majority of people worldwide have come to communicate.
Wireless communication devices have become smaller and more
powerful in order to meet consumer needs, improve portability and
convenience. The increase in processing power in mobile devices
such as cellular telephones has lead to an increase in demands on
wireless network transmission systems.
[0007] A typical wireless communication network (e.g., employing
frequency, time, and code division techniques) includes one or more
base stations that provide a coverage area and one or more mobile
(e.g., wireless) terminals that can transmit and receive data
within the coverage area. A typical base station can concurrently
transmit multiple data streams for broadcast, multicast, and/or
unicast services, wherein a data stream is a stream of data that
can be of independent reception interest to a mobile terminal. A
mobile terminal within the coverage area of that base station can
be interested in receiving one, more than one, or all the data
streams carried by the composite stream. Likewise, a mobile
terminal can transmit data to the base station or another mobile
terminal.
SUMMARY
[0008] The following presents a simplified summary in order to
provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed
embodiments. This summary is not an extensive overview and is
intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate
the scope of such embodiments. Its purpose is to present some
concepts of the described embodiments in a simplified form as a
prelude to the more detailed description that is presented
later.
[0009] In accordance with one or more embodiments and corresponding
disclosure thereof, various aspects are described in connection
with signaling and management of broadcast-multicast waveform
embedded in a unicast waveform.
[0010] An aspect relates to a method for tunneling multi-user
packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast waveform.
The method includes generating a message though protocols in a
unicast stack associated with an access node. The method also
includes tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route
Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access
Node and transmitting the message on a BCMC channel to an access
terminal for output to a user. The access node and the BCMC Access
Node can communicate over an IOS interface.
[0011] Another aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that includes a memory and a processor. The memory can
retain instructions related to generating a message though
protocols in a unicast stack associated with an access node and
tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route
Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access
Node. The memory can also retain instructions relating to
transmitting the message on a BCMC channel to an access terminal
for output to a user. The access node and the BCMC Access Node can
communicate over an IOS interface. The processor can be coupled to
the memory and can be configured to execute the instructions
retained in the memory.
[0012] A further aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that tunnels multi-user packets of a unicast waveform
over a broadcast-multicast waveform. The apparatus can include a
means for generating a message though protocols in a unicast stack
associated with an access node and a means for tunneling the
message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol
(B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access Node. Also included
can be a means for transmitting the message on a BCMC channel to an
access terminal for output to a user. The access node and the BCMC
Access Node can communicate over an IOS interface.
[0013] Yet another aspect relates to a machine-readable medium
having stored thereon machine-executable instructions for tunneling
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform. The instructions can include generating a message though
protocols in a unicast stack associated with an access node and
tunneling the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route
Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access
Node. The instructions can also include routing the message through
a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access Node and transmitting the
message on a BCMC channel to an access terminal for output to a
user. The access node and the BCMC Access Node can communicate over
an IOS interface.
[0014] In a wireless communications system, an aspect relates to an
apparatus comprising a processor. The processor can be configured
to generate a message though protocols in a unicast stack
associated with an access node and tunnel the message to a
broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) of a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) Access Node. The processor can also be
configured to route the message through a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the
BCMC Access Node and transmit the message on a BCMC channel to an
access terminal for output to a user. The access node and the BCMC
Access Node can communicate over an IOS interface.
[0015] In a related aspect is a method for receiving tunneled
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform. The method includes receiving a message over a
broadcast-multicast waveform and tunneling the message though a
broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP). The
method also includes routing the message though a unicast stack and
outputting the message to a user.
[0016] Another aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus comprising a memory and a processor. The memory can
retain instructions relating to receiving a message over a
broadcast-multicast waveform and tunneling the message though a
B-IRTP. The memory can also retain instructions relating to routing
the message though a unicast stack and outputting the message to a
user. The processor can be coupled to the memory and can be
configured to execute the instructions retained in the memory.
[0017] Still another aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that receives multi-user packets of a unicast waveform
over a broadcast-multicast waveform. The apparatus can include a
means for receiving a message over a broadcast-multicast waveform
and a means for tunneling the message though a B-IRTP. The
apparatus can also include a means for routing the message though a
unicast stack and a means for outputting the message to a user.
[0018] A further aspect relates to a machine-readable medium having
stored thereon machine-executable instructions for receiving
tunneled multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a
broadcast-multicast waveform. The instructions include receiving a
message over a broadcast-multicast waveform and tunneling the
message though a B-IRTP. The instructions can also include routing
the message though a unicast stack and outputting the message to a
user.
[0019] In a wireless communications system, another aspect relates
to an apparatus that includes a processor. The processor can be
configured to receive a message over a broadcast-multicast waveform
and tunnel the message though a B-IRTP. The processor can also be
configured to review a type field in a Broadcast Packet
Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header. Further, the processor can
be configured to route the message though a unicast stack and
output the message to a user. The type field can indicate whether
the message is a BCMC signaling message.
[0020] In a related aspect is a method for tunneling out of band
signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast
waveform. The method includes generating a message through
protocols in a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and transmitting
the message over a unicast waveform for rendering on a mobile
device.
[0021] Another aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that includes a memory and a processor. The memory can
retain instructions relating to generating a message through
protocols in a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and transmitting
the message over a unicast waveform for rendering on a mobile
device. The processor can be coupled to the memory and can be
configured to execute the instructions retained in the memory.
[0022] A further aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that tunnels out of band signaling of a
broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast waveform. The apparatus
includes a means for generating a message through protocols in a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and a means for transmitting the
message over a unicast waveform for rendering on a mobile
device.
[0023] Still another aspect relates to a machine-readable medium
having stored thereon machine-executable instructions for tunneling
out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a
unicast waveform. The instructions include generating a message
through protocols in a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack. The
instructions also include transmitting the message over a unicast
waveform for rendering on a mobile device.
[0024] In a wireless communications system, another aspect relates
to an apparatus comprising a processor. The processor can be
configured to generate a message through protocols in a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and tunnel the message though an
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (IRTP) of a serving access node. The
processor can also be configured to transmit the message over a
unicast waveform for rendering on a mobile device.
[0025] In a related aspect is a method for receiving a tunneled out
of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast
waveform. The method includes receiving a message over a unicast
waveform and processing the message through a unicast stack. The
method also includes routing the message to a broadcast/multicast
(BCMC) stack and outputting the message to a user.
[0026] Another aspect relates to a wireless communications
apparatus that includes a memory and a processor. The memory can
retain instructions relating to receiving a message over a unicast
waveform and processing the message through a unicast stack. The
memory can also retain instructions relating to routing the message
to a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and outputting the message to
a user. The processor can be coupled to the memory and can be
configured to execute the instructions retained in the memory.
[0027] Still another aspect relates to wireless communications
apparatus that receives a tunneled out of band signaling of a
broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast waveform. The apparatus
includes a means for receiving a message over a unicast waveform
and a means for processing the message through a unicast stack. The
apparatus can also includes a means for routing the message to a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and a means for outputting the
message to a user.
[0028] Yet another aspect relates to a machine-readable medium
having stored thereon machine-executable instructions for tunneling
out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a
unicast waveform. The instructions include receiving a message over
a unicast waveform and processing the message through a unicast
stack. The instructions also include routing the message to a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and outputting the message to a
user.
[0029] In a wireless communications system, another aspect relates
to an apparatus that includes a processor. The processor can be
configured to receive a message over a unicast waveform and process
the message through a unicast stack. The processor can also be
configured to tunnel the message though an Inter-Route Tunneling
Protocol (IRTP) and transmit the message through a PHY MAC of the
unicast stack. Further, the processor can be configured to route
the message to a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and output the
message to a user.
[0030] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, one
or more embodiments comprise the features hereinafter fully
described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following
description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain
illustrative aspects and are indicative of but a few of the various
ways in which the principles of the embodiments may be employed.
Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the
following detailed description when considered in conjunction with
the drawings and the disclosed embodiments are intended to include
all such aspects and their equivalents.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates a system that facilitates signaling and
management of a broadcast-multicast waveform embedded in a unicast
waveform.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a system for managing broadcast-multicast
waveforms embedded in a unicast waveform.
[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates a BCMC Protocol Stack.
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a BCMC Packet Consolidation Protocol
(B-PCP).
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates a system with exemplary BCMC data paths
for signaling and management of a broadcast-multicast waveform
embedded in a unicast waveform.
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates a system that facilitates tunneling of
out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a
unicast waveform.
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates a system that facilitates tunneling
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform.
[0038] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of BCMC
content.
[0039] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic representation of BCMC
messages transmitted on a BCMC channel.
[0040] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a unicast message
transmitted on a BCMC channel.
[0041] FIG. 11 illustrates a method to tunnel multi-user packets of
a unicast waveform over a broadcast waveform.
[0042] FIG. 12 illustrates a method for receiving messages
generated by protocols in the unicast stack that are transmitted on
a BCMC channel.
[0043] FIG. 13 illustrates a method to tunnel out of band signaling
of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast waveform.
[0044] FIG. 14 illustrates another method to tunnel an out of band
signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast
waveform.
[0045] FIG. 15 illustrates a system that facilitates signaling and
management of a broadcast-multicast waveform embedded in a unicast
waveform in accordance with one or more of the disclosed
aspects.
[0046] FIG. 16 illustrates a system that facilitates transmission
of messages in accordance with various aspects presented
herein.
[0047] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary wireless communication
system.
[0048] FIG. 18 illustrates an example system that tunnels
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform.
[0049] FIG. 19 illustrates an example system that receives
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform.
[0050] FIG. 20 illustrates an example system that tunnels out of
band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast
waveform.
[0051] FIG. 21 illustrates an example system that receives a
tunneled out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform
over a unicast waveform.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0052] Various embodiments are now described with reference to the
drawings. In the following description, for purposes of
explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of one or more aspects. It may be
evident, however, that such embodiment(s) may be practiced without
these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures
and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate
describing these embodiments.
[0053] As used in this application, the terms "component",
"module", "system", and the like are intended to refer to a
computer-related entity, either hardware, firmware, a combination
of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For
example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process
running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a
thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of
illustration, both an application running on a computing device and
the computing device can be a component. One or more components can
reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component
may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or
more computers. In addition, these components can execute from
various computer readable media having various data structures
stored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local
and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having
one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting
with another component in a local system, distributed system,
and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems by
way of the signal).
[0054] Furthermore, various embodiments are described herein in
connection with a wireless terminal A wireless terminal can also be
called a system, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile
station, mobile, mobile device, remote station, remote terminal,
access terminal, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication
device, user agent, user device, or user equipment (UE). A wireless
terminal may be a cellular telephone, a cordless telephone, a
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a wireless local loop
(WLL) station, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a handheld
device having wireless connection capability, computing device, or
other processing device connected to a wireless modem. Moreover,
various embodiments are described herein in connection with a base
station. A base station may be utilized for communicating with
wireless terminal(s) and may also be referred to as an access
point, Node B, or some other terminology.
[0055] Various aspects or features will be presented in terms of
systems that may include a number of devices, components, modules,
and the like. It is to be understood and appreciated that the
various systems may include additional devices, components,
modules, etc. and/or may not include all of the devices,
components, modules etc. discussed in connection with the figures.
A combination of these approaches may also be used.
[0056] Referring now to FIG. 1, a system 100 that facilitates
signaling and management of a broadcast-multicast waveform embedded
in a unicast waveform is illustrated. The unicast waveform can be a
multi-route unicast waveform. It should be noted that various
aspects will be presented with respect to Ultra Mobile Broadband
(UMB) however; the disclosed aspects are not limited to UMB.
[0057] System 100 includes a mobile device 102 that is in
communication with a serving access node 104 and a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) access node 106. The serving access node
104 includes broadcast channel transmission capability. The serving
access node 104 and BCMC access node 106 can be interfaced though
an IOS (Inter Operability Specification) interface, for example.
Although a number of mobile devices(s) 102 and access node(s) 104
can be included in system 100, as will be appreciated, a single
terminal that communicates with a single access node 104 is
illustrated for purposes of simplicity.
[0058] It should also be noted that the serving access 104 node can
be changed (e.g., a different access node can become the serving
access node) during operation of mobile device 102. For example,
the access point 104 covers a geographic range or cell and, as the
mobile device 102 is operated, it may be moved in and out of these
geographic cells. To achieve uninterrupted communication the mobile
device 102 deregisters with the cell it is exiting and registers
with the cell it has entered. The access point 104 might also
change depending on various circumstances including the location of
mobile device 102, signal strength, quality of the signal,
interference within the communications network, as well as other
factors.
[0059] Mobile device 102 can include one or more unicast stack(s)
108, of which only one is illustrated, and a BCMC stack 110. The
number of unicast stack(s) 108 included can be a function of the
number of access nodes from which mobile device 102 can be in
contact with at any point. For example, if there are three access
nodes, the mobile device 102 can include three unicast stacks.
However, any number of unicast stacks can be included in mobile
device and the determined number is not dependent on the number of
access nodes included in any wireless communications network.
[0060] The unicast stack(s) 108 and/or BCMC Stack 110 facilitate
communication tunneling of out of band signaling of
broadcast-multicast waveforms over a unicast waveform.
Alternatively or additionally, the unicast stacks 108 can
facilitate tunneling multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over
a broadcast multicast waveform.
[0061] The BCMC Stack 110 can be configured to receive a
broadcast/multicast waveform that can be transmitted by serving
access node 104 and/or BCMC access node 106. In accordance with
some aspects, multiple broadcast/multicast waveforms can be
received from multiple access nodes (e.g., serving access nodes and
other access nodes whose transmission can be received by mobile
device 102). These multiple broadcast/multicast waveforms can be
received at the BCMC Stack 108 and combined, increasing signal
strength.
[0062] A unicast waveform includes a packet destined for a single
user or mobile device 102. A multicast waveform includes a packet
destined for multiple users, such as all mobile devices within a
communications network. However, there might be situations when a
serving access node 104 desires to send a packet that is not part
of the BCMC protocol to the multiple mobile devices in the network
that have BCMC capability (e.g., a BCMC stack). For example, if
there is an emergency in the area, access node 104 can be
configured to transmit an emergency message to the multiple users
at substantially the same time.
[0063] System 100 utilizes the multi-route nature of a UMB system
or other system. In multi-route, the BCMC protocol has its own
route, even though the waveform can be emitted from a similar
unicast waveform. Multi-route can provide tunneling of unicast
messages though the BCMC waveform, which provides Single Frequency
Network (SFN) gains on multi-user packets, such as overhead
messages. Multi-route can also facilitate tunneling BCMC message
through the unicast waveform.
[0064] Further information relating to overlaying a broadcast
multicast channel on top of a unicast cellular network is provided
with references to the following figures and detailed
description.
[0065] FIG. 2 illustrates a system 200 for managing
broadcast-multicast waveforms embedded in a unicast waveform.
System 200 can facilitate broadcast/multicast (BCMC) operation in a
cellular network. Thus, while some packets can be destined to a
single terminal or user, other packets can be sent to multiple
users by overlaying a broadcast multicast channel on top of the
unicast cellular network. There are at least four types of message
exchange data made possible by system 200. These types of message
exchange data are: the exchange of BCMC higher layer packets;
messages generated by protocols in the BMC stack that should be
sent on a BCMC channel; messages generated by protocols in the BMC
stack that should be sent on a unicast channel; and/or messages
generated by protocols in the unicast stack that should be sent on
a BCMC channel.
[0066] In further detail, system 200 includes a terminal 202 that
is in wireless communication with one or more access nodes. It
should be noted that multiple terminals 202 can be included in
system 200, however only one is shown for purposes of simplicity.
Illustrated are three access nodes, labeled AN.sub.A 204, AN.sub.B
206, and AN.sub.C 208, however, it should be noted that more (or
fewer) access nodes can be utilized with the disclosed techniques
and three are illustrated for purposes of simplicity. Each access
node can have unicast and/or broadcast channel transmission
capability.
[0067] Also included in system 200 are a content server (CS) 210
and a Broadcast Multicast Server (BMS) 212. The CS 210 and BMS 212
are co-network entities that facilitate transmission of a
broadcast-multicast waveform embedded in a unicast waveform. The CS
210 sends content (e.g., movie file, audio track, and so forth) to
the BMS 212. The BMS 212 multiplies the received content and
transmits the multiple content streams to the access nodes 204,
206, 208 (all access network elements) located in (or near) system
200. In turn, each access node 204, 206, 208 transmits the content,
which can be selectively received at terminal 202 depending on the
entity that sent the content (e.g., the access node identification)
and/or the type of content (e.g., unicast, broadcast), the sending
node information, as well as other information.
[0068] Terminal 202 can include multiple unicast stacks and a
single BCMC stack. The content transmitted by AN.sub.A can be
received at terminal 202 by Unicast Stack.sub.A 214 though
RouteID=A 216. The content transmitted by AN.sub.B 206 can be
received by Unicast Stack.sub.B 218 though RouteID=B 220.
Similarly, the unicast content transmitted by AN.sub.C 208 can be
received by Unicast Stack.sub.C 222 though RouteID=C 224.
[0069] Since AN.sub.C 208 is the current serving node, RouteID=C
224 is illustrated in bold. Although AN.sub.C 208 is the serving
node for the time captured in FIG. 2, at a next moment in time, the
serving node can be switched to another entity and terminal 202 can
include a fast switching mechanism to facilitate the switching so
that the broadcast stream can be received at the terminal 202.
[0070] Each Unicast Stack 214, 218, 222 can be dedicated to receive
content from a specific access node 204, 206, 208. Thus, there can
be more (or fewer) than three unicast stacks included in terminal
202, which can be considered the sub-entities within the terminal
202 that communicate with the network elements (AN.sub.A 204,
AN.sub.B 206, and AN.sub.C 208). There can be one unicast stack for
each open route, however, in accordance with some aspects, a
unicast stack can receive packets from multiple routes (or access
nodes). Thus, terminal 202 can communicate (e.g., transfer packets)
with any of the nodes 204, 206, 208 at any time.
[0071] In the illustrated example, AN.sub.C 208, while acting as
the serving node, can be transmitting two different waveforms. One
waveform is the regular unicast waveform, which is received by
Unicast Stack.sub.C 222. The other waveform is the
broadcast-multicast (BCMC) waveform that appears at a different
network entity to the terminal 202. The entity that receives the
BCMC packet is the BCMC Stack 226. The BMC stack 226 corresponds to
the BCMC Route 228 and can be assigned special RouteID=0xe.
[0072] It should be noted that each access node (AN.sub.A 204,
AN.sub.B 206, and AN.sub.C 208) can be transmitting a BCMC waveform
over the air. However, in this example, terminal 202 receives the
information from AN.sub.C 208. In accordance with some aspects,
terminal 202 receives multiple BCMC waveforms from two or more
access nodes. The multiple BCMC waveforms are received at the BCMC
Stack 226. Each access node is sending a similar BCMC signal, which
are combined at the BCMC Stack 226. Thus, the terminal 202 can
recognize or receive a stronger signal.
[0073] The BMS 212 is the central controller and its functionality
can be dependent on the deployment-model, which can be AN-centric
and/or region-centric. In either deployment-model the BMS 212
utilizes a Broadcast Multicast Protocol (BMP) to communicate with
the terminal(s) 202. In AN-centric mode every access node sends its
own BCMC signal. A multicastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID can be maintained
per access node. In this model BMC 212 is not L2 aware. The
AN-centric model does not allow for Single Frequency Network (SFN)
operation but does allow for demand based channel lineup at each
terminal 202.
[0074] In a region-centric model, the
multicastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained regionally. The BMS is
L2 aware and can create BCMC Overhead Messages and BCMC data
frames. Broadcast Overhead Messages contain static configuration of
Broadcast Logical Channels and can be sent as overhead on a unicast
stack. The Broadcast Logical Channels can include one or more
Broadcast Physical Channels. The region-centric model allows for
Space Frequency Network (SFN) operation. Additionally, channel
lineup is fixed under the BMS serving area.
[0075] FIG. 3 illustrates a BCMC Protocol Stack 300. The BCMC
Protocol Stack 300 can be included on a terminal or other
communications devices to facilitate communication of a
Broadcast-Multicast waveform in accordance with the disclosed
aspects. Included in the stack 300 is a BCMC Physical Channel
Protocol (B-PHY) 302. The B-PHY can include the F-PICH (Broadcast
Pilot Channel) and the F-BCMCSCH (Broadcast/Multicast Services
Channel). Also included in the BCMC Protocol Stack 300 is a BCMC
MAC Channel Protocol (B-MAC) 304. A BCMC Packet Consolidation
Protocol (B-PCP) 306 is also included. The B-PCP 306 facilitates
framing and multiplexing of higher layer packets. The B-PCP 306 can
also perform encryption of BCMC content packets, which can be
facilitated by a B-Security module 308.
[0076] The BCMC Protocol Stack 300 also includes a BCMC Inter-Route
Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP) 310 that tunnels packets generated by
the unicast stack on the BCMC Physical Channel. Also included is a
BCMC Control Protocol 312, which defines control procedures, such
as BCMC Flow Registration.
[0077] With reference now to FIG. 4, illustrated is the BCMC Packet
Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) 400. The concept behind the BCMC
Packet Consolidation Protocol (PCP) is that there might be a number
of messages or packets that are to be sent over the BCMCS waveform.
The BCMC generally transmits the messages or packets at
predetermined intervals. Therefore, a packet is not sent whenever
the data is available but is sent at the next sending interval.
Thus, more than one packet should be included in the BCMCS PHY
packet to mitigate wasting resources. The PCP can facilitate
inclusion of multiple packets in a MAC packet.
[0078] Two different B-PCP are illustrated at 400 and 402, each
having a different header. The B-PCP 400, 402 performs framing of
higher layer packets and can perform fragmentation, if necessary.
The B-PCP 400 can indicate a boundary of higher layer packets
though utilization of a Begin Flag 404 and an End Flag 406. The
Begin Flag 404 indicates whether it is a first fragment of a higher
layer packet. The End Flag 406 indicates whether it is a last
fragment of a higher layer packet.
[0079] The B-PCP 400 can be multiplexed into three types of packets
by an indication provided in the Type Field 408. These packet types
are: Broadcast Content Packets; Unicast Packets; and Signaling
Messages. Broadcast Content Packets can call a security function to
encrypt Broadcast Content Packets. Unicast Packets to be tunneled
can be received from Broadcast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol
(B-ITRP). Signaling Messages can be generated by protocols in the
BCMC Suite that are destined for transmission on the Broadcast
Physical Channel. The Type Field 408 can indicate 00: Broadcast
Content Packet (in the clear); 01: Broadcast Content Packet
(encrypted); 10: Broadcast IRTP Packet; and/or 11: Message of a
Broadcast Protocol. Also included in the B-PCP 400 is one or more
Reserved Blocks 410. Another field 412 indicates the Length of the
PCP payload 414.
[0080] B-PCP 402 illustrates a different header that can be
utilized with the disclosed aspects. B-PCP 402 includes a
HeaderType Field 414 and a Reserved Field 416. These fields 414 and
416 can be approximately one byte in length. Also included is a
Payload 418.
[0081] The BCMC MAC protocol can include an Error Control Block
that can consist entirely of the Broadcast Packet Consolidation
Protocol Packet, which can mitigate the need for a Block Header.
The First B-PCP packet in each Error Control Block should be the
packet containing the SecurityParameters message from the Broadcast
Security Protocol. This packet contains the RandomSeed utilized to
generate the Short Term Key. Each Error Control Bock should begin
with a new B-PCP packet.
[0082] In accordance with some aspects, a Broadcast Overhead
Channel can be transmitted as overhead on each Error Control Block.
The Broadcast Overhead Channel can provide finer multiplexing of
different BCMC content data.
[0083] BCMC Signaling Messages can be generated by BCMC Protocols.
The BCMC Signaling Messages can be transmitted on the Broadcast
Physical Channel and/or the Physical Channel of the Unicast Stack.
If transmitted on the Physical Channel of the Unicast Stack, the
BCMC Signaling Messages can be tunneled through IRTP of the serving
unicast Route.
[0084] Forward Link (FL) Messages can be transmitted using either
the Broadcast Physical Channel method or the Physical Channel of
the Unicast Stack method. The actual method to be utilized for each
method can be predetermined, such as by a standard or other means.
Reverse Link (RL) Messages can be tunneled through the Unicast
Stack.
[0085] A MessageID space can be shared among all protocols in the
BCMC Suite. A SNP header with Type field to specify the protocol
might not be needed. The Type filed in the B-PCP header can
indicate whether it is a BCMC signaling message. Messages/packets
generated by the unicast stack can also be transmitted on the
Broadcast Physical Channel. These messages/packets can be tunneled
through a B-IRTP of the BCMC stack.
[0086] FIG. 5 illustrates a system 500 with exemplary BCMC data
paths for signaling and management of a broadcast-multicast
waveform embedded in a unicast waveform. The data paths illustrate
how packets are exchanged between an access terminal 502 and an
access node 504, which is the access node 504 serving the access
terminal 502 at this time. System 500 also includes a BCMC Access
Node 506, which is similar to the BMS 212 illustrated in FIG. 2.
The Access Node 504 and BCMC Access Node 506 can be connected
through an IOS interface.
[0087] A BCMC Data Path for BCMC higher layer packets is
illustrated at 508. A BCMC content generator 510, located in the
BCMC Access Node 506, sends the BCMC higher layer packets. The
packets are sent through the B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY 512 of the BCMC
Access Node 506 and over the air to the access terminal (e.g., air
interface). The packets are received at the B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY 514
located in the BCMC Stack 516 of the Access Terminal 502 and
forwarded to a BCMC content receiver 518 of the terminal 502. A
path similar to the BCMC Data Path for BCMC higher layer packets
508 is utilized for wireless communications.
[0088] A BCMC Data Path for messages generated by protocols in the
BCMC stack that are to be sent on a BCMC channel is illustrated at
520. This path 520 is the protocol for generating a signaling
message, which can be one of multiple types of signaling messages.
Thus, the protocol creates a signaling messages that is intended
for all access terminals within a region, and therefore, should be
transmitted over the BCMC channel. A BCMC protocol X 522 of the
BCMC Access Node 506 sends the packet over the B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY
512 of the BCMC Access Node 506 and over the air. The packet is
received at the B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY 514 located in the BCMC Stack 516
of the Access Terminal 502 and forwarded to a BCMC protocol X 524
of the terminal 502. The access terminal 502 performs the necessary
functions depending on the information contained in the signal.
[0089] Thus, the BCMC Data Path for BCMC higher layer packets 508
and the BCMC Data Path for messages generated by protocols in the
BCMC stack that are to be transmitted on a BCMC channel 520 are
transmitted over the air interface from the BCMC Access Node 506
directly to the Access Terminal 502. Thus, these Data Paths 508 and
520 can bypass the (Serving) Access Node 504.
[0090] FIG. 6 illustrates a system 600 that facilitates tunneling
of out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a
unicast waveform. The BCMC protocol messages sent over the BCMC
Data Path 608 are those messages that are to be sent to and/or from
a single access terminal 602. A BCMC protocol X 622 located in a
BCMC Access Node 606 and/or a BCMC protocol X 624 located in the
Access Terminal 602 can be configured to generate messages that
need to be sent on a unicast channel. These messages are
specifically directed to/from individual access terminals 602 and
can include information such as that an access terminal (e.g.,
user) wants to listen to a particular channel and has registered
for that channel. Even though these messages are sent using the
unicast stack, the messages can be sent using Broadcast MACID to
facilitate multiple users receiving the same message. These
messages can contain information about the structure of the BCMCS
waveform, which can allow the Access Terminal to receive the BCMCS
physical channel.
[0091] A BCMC protocol X 624, located in the Access Terminal 602
can generate a packet. Since BCMC physical layer cannot be used in
a reverse direction, such packets are sent over an AN.sub.A Unicast
Stack 626, located in the Access Terminal 602. The BCMC protocol X
624 generates the packet and sends the packet though a BCMC
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (IRTP) 628. The message is then
transmitted though the PCP/MAC/PHY.sub.B 630 of the AN.sub.A
Unicast Stack 626 and transmitted over the air as unicast. The
message is received at the PCP/MAC/PHY.sub.B 632 of Access
Node.sub.A (serving node) 604. The message is processed though an
RLP 634 and an IRTP 636 of Access Node.sub.A 604. The message is
recognized as belonging to the BCMC protocol X 622 of the BCMC
access node 606, where the message is received over an IOS
interface. If the messages are generated by the BCMC AN 606, a
similar path, in the reverse order, is utilized.
[0092] FIG. 7 illustrates a system 700 that facilitates tunneling
multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast-multicast
waveform. There might be situations when a serving access node
wants to send a packet that is not a BCMC packet to multiple
terminals in the network. The multiple terminals that have a BCMC
stack can receive this packet. An example of a message that might
be sent in this manner is a message indicating that there is an
emergency (e.g., flash flood in the area) and everyone within the
area should receive the message.
[0093] The BCMC Data Path for messages generated by protocols in
the unicast stack that should be sent on the BCMC channel is
illustrated at 708. The message is generated by an application 738
associated with the (Serving) Access Node 704. The application can
be an SMS application or other application. The message is sent
though the protocol (RIP 740) of the (Serving) Access Node 704 and
though the B-IRTP 734 of the BCMC access node 706. The message is
routed through the B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY 712 and all access terminals
in the region receive the message over an air interface.
[0094] A header included in the message contains information
indicating that, the message should go to the B-IRTP 736 of the
Access Terminal. The B-IRTP 736 recognizes that the message should
be routed to the unicast stack 726. The message arrives at the
application 738 of the access terminal 702, which can be an SMS
application or another application that receives the packets and
presents the packets in a perceivable format.
[0095] With reference now to FIG. 8, illustrated is a schematic
representation of BCMC content 800. The figure on the left
illustrates a High Level (HL) BCMC data 802 that can be fragmented
if the entire packet does not fit in the MAC payload 804. The
figure on the left illustrates the packet traversing the BCMC
Protocol Stack 806. The BCMC content for higher layers 808
traverses through B-Security 810, then B-MAC 812, then B-PHY
814.
[0096] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic representation of BCMC
messages transmitted on a BCMC channel 900. BCMC messages can
include a MessageID 902 and Message Content 904. A message
generated by protocols in the BCMC stack that should be sent on the
BCMC channel is illustrated at 908. An example of this type of
message is a BCMCSecurityParameters message. The messages 908
traverse trough B-PCP 910, B-MAC 912, and B-PHY 914 of the BCMC
Stack 906. This message does not go though B-Security (not
illustrated).
[0097] Illustrated in FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a
unicast message transmitted on a BCMC channel 1000. Messages
generated by protocols in the unicast stack that should be send on
a BCMC channel are illustrated at 1008. These messages 1008
traverse the B-IRTP 1016, B-PCP 1010, B-MAC 1012, and B-PHY
1014.
[0098] In view of the exemplary systems shown and described above,
methodologies that may be implemented in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter, will be better appreciated with reference
to the following flow charts. While, for purposes of simplicity of
explanation, the methodologies are shown and described as a series
of blocks, it is to be understood and appreciated that the claimed
subject matter is not limited by the number or order of blocks, as
some blocks may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with
other blocks from what is depicted and described herein. Moreover,
not all illustrated blocks may be required to implement the
methodologies described hereinafter. It is to be appreciated that
the functionality associated with the blocks may be implemented by
software, hardware, a combination thereof or any other suitable
means (e.g. device, system, process, component). Additionally, it
should be further appreciated that the methodologies disclosed
hereinafter and throughout this specification are capable of being
stored on an article of manufacture to facilitate transporting and
transferring such methodologies to various devices. Those skilled
in the art will understand and appreciate that a methodology could
alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states or
events, such as in a state diagram.
[0099] FIG. 11 illustrates a method 1100 to tunnel multi-user
packets of a unicast waveform over a broadcast waveform. These
packets can include information that is not normally included in a
broadcast waveform but should be sent to as many devices as
possible within a communications network. Examples of such packets
can include emergency messages or other messages that would be
beneficial to a large group of users within a particular geographic
area. It should be noted that these messages can be received by any
device that has a BCMCS stack (e.g., capability of receiving BCMC
waveform) within the serving area (e.g., communications
network).
[0100] At 1102, a message that should be transmitted over a BCMC
channel is generated though utilization of protocols in a unicast
stack of the serving access node. These messages can be identified
as having a priority level that exceeds a threshold level or based
on some other criteria (e.g., key words or key phrases within a
subject or body of a message). After the message is generated, at
1104, it is process through a protocol stack of the serving access
node.
[0101] The message is sent over the air, at 1106, to a B-IRTP of a
BCMC access node serving the communications network. The B-IRTP
tunnels packets generated by the unicast stack on the BCMC Physical
Channel. At the BCMC Access Node, method 1100 continues, at 1108,
with the message being routed through the BMCC B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY.
The message is transmitted over the air, at 1110, to the mobile
devices within the communications network.
[0102] FIG. 12 illustrates a method 1200 for receiving messages
generated by protocols in the unicast stack that are transmitted on
a BCMC channel. These messages can be transmitted utilizing the
method of the above figure.
[0103] At 1202, messages are received from a BCMC Access Node.
These messages can include information that is usually included in
a broadcast waveform but should be sent to as many devices as
possible within a communications network. The messages can be
received at a B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY of the access terminal.
[0104] At 1204, a header included in the messages is identified
and, based on the header information, the messages are routed
through the B-IRTP protocol of the access terminal. The B-IRTP
protocol can review information contained within the message and
recognize that the message should be routed through the unicast
stack of the access terminal, at 1206.
[0105] The message is output to the user, at 1208. The message can
be output though an application, such as an SMS application or
other applications that can receive the packet and present the
packet to the user. The packet can be presented on a screen display
or though other readily perceivable means, such as audio, for
example.
[0106] With reference now to FIG. 13, illustrated is a method 1300
to tunnel out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform
over a unicast waveform. Method 1300 can facilitate transmitting
BCMC protocol messages to a single access terminal Since all the
devices in the communications network do not need to receive the
messages, it does not need to be sent over the BCMC PHY layer.
[0107] Method 1300 starts, at 1302, when a message is generated in
the BCMC protocol X of a BCMC Access Mode. This message, instead of
being routed though the B-PCP/B-MAC/P-PHY, is routed over the air
to the serving access node, at 1304.
[0108] The serving access node receives the packet at the IRTP.
Method 1300 continues, at 1306, when the access node routes the
message though the PCP/MAC/PHY.sub.B. The message is sent over the
air, as a unicast message to the mobile device that is to receive
the message.
[0109] FIG. 14, illustrates another method to tunnel an out of band
signaling of a broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast
waveform. Method 1400 starts, at 1402, when a message is received
from the serving access node. This message can be received at a
PCP/MAC/PHY.sub.B. The message is routed through the Unicast Stack,
at 1404. Even though the message includes a broadcast-multicast
waveform, it is routed through the unicast stack because the
message was tunneled over the unicast waveform, as described with
reference to FIG. 13. Based on a header contained in the message,
it is routed to the BCMC protocol X, at 1406. The message is output
to the user, at 1406, in any perceivable manner.
[0110] With reference now to FIG. 15, illustrated is a system 1500
that facilitates signaling and management of a broadcast-multicast
waveform embedded in a unicast waveform in accordance with one or
more of the disclosed aspects. System 1500 can reside in an access
point and/or in a user device. All the sub-blocks of system 1500
can be present in both the access point and the user device for the
unicast waveform. However, for the BCMC waveform, the user device
can contain transmitter related sub-blocks (1508 and 1512) and the
access point can contain receiver related sub-blocks (1502 and
1504). System 1500 comprises a receiver 1502 that can receive a
signal from, for example, a receiver antenna. The receiver 1502 can
perform typical actions thereon, such as filtering, amplifying,
downconverting, etc. the received signal. The receiver 1502 can
also digitize the conditioned signal to obtain samples. A
demodulator 1504 can obtain received symbols for each symbol
period, as well as provide received symbols to a processor
1506.
[0111] Processor 1506 can be a processor dedicated to analyzing
information received by receiver component 1502 and/or generating
information for transmission by a transmitter 1508. In addition or
alternatively, processor 1506 can control one or more components of
user device 1500, analyze information received by receiver 1502,
generate information for transmission by transmitter 1508, and/or
control one or more components of user device 1500. Processor 1506
may include a controller component capable of coordinating
communications with additional user devices.
[0112] User device 1500 can additionally comprise memory 1508
operatively coupled to processor 1506 and that can store
information related to coordinating communications and any other
suitable information. Memory 1510 can additionally store protocols
associated with coordinating communication. It will be appreciated
that the data store (e.g., memories) components described herein
can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory, or can include
both volatile and nonvolatile memory. By way of illustration, and
not limitation, nonvolatile memory can include read only memory
(ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM
(EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory.
Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM), which acts
as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not
limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM
(SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data
rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM
(SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). The memory 1508 of the
subject systems and/or methods is intended to comprise, without
being limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.
User device 1500 can further comprise a symbol modulator 1512 and a
transmitter 1508 that transmits the modulated signal.
[0113] In accordance with some aspects, memory 1510 can be
configured to retain and processor 1506 can be configured to
execute instructions relating to receiving a message over a
broadcast-multicast waveform and tunneling the message though a
B-IRTP. The instructions can also relate to routing the message
though a unicast stack, and outputting the message to a user. In
accordance with other aspects, memory 1510 can be configured to
retain and processor 1506 can be configured to execute instructions
relating to receiving a message over a unicast waveform and
processing the message through a unicast stack. The instructions
can also relate to routing the message to a broadcast/multicast
(BCMC) stack and outputting the message to a user.
[0114] FIG. 16 is an illustration of a system 1600 that facilitates
transmission of messages in accordance with various aspects
presented herein. System 1600 comprises a base station or access
point 1602. As illustrated, base station 1602 receives signal(s)
from one or more user devices 1604 by a receive antenna 1606, and
transmits to the one or more user devices 1604 through a transmit
antenna 1608.
[0115] Base station 1602 comprises a receiver 1610 that receives
information from receive antenna 1606 and is operatively associated
with a demodulator 1612 that demodulates received information.
Demodulated symbols are analyzed by a processor 1614 that is
coupled to a memory 1616 that stores information related to
broadcast-multicast waveforms embedded in a unicast waveform. A
modulator 1618 can multiplex the signal for transmission by a
transmitter 1620 through transmit antenna 1608 to user devices
1604.
[0116] In accordance with some aspects, memory 1616 can be
configured to retain and processor 1614 can be configured to
execute instructions relating to generating a message through
protocols in a unicast stack associated with base station 1602. The
instructions can also relate to tunneling the message to a
broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (B-IRTP), and
transmitting the message on a BCMC channel. The access node and the
BCMC Access Node can communicate over an IOS interface. In
accordance with other aspects, memory 1616 can be configured to
retain and processor 1614 can be configured to execute instructions
relating to generating a message through protocols in a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack and transmitting the message over
a unicast waveform for rendering on a mobile device.
[0117] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary wireless communication
system 1700. Wireless communication system 1700 depicts one base
station and one terminal for sake of brevity. However, it is to be
appreciated that system 1700 can include more than one base station
or access point and/or more than one terminal or user device,
wherein additional base stations and/or terminals can be
substantially similar or different from the exemplary base station
and terminal described below. In addition, it is to be appreciated
that the base station and/or the terminal can employ the systems
and/or methods described herein to facilitate wireless
communication there between.
[0118] Referring now to FIG. 17, on a downlink, at access point
1705, a transmit (TX) data processor 1710 receives, formats, codes,
interleaves, and modulates (or symbol maps) traffic data and
provides modulation symbols ("data symbols"). A symbol modulator
1715 receives and processes the data symbols and pilot symbols and
provides a stream of symbols. A symbol modulator 1715 multiplexes
data and pilot symbols and obtains a set of N transmit symbols.
Each transmit symbol may be a data symbol, a pilot symbol, or a
signal value of zero. The pilot symbols may be sent continuously in
each symbol period. The pilot symbols can be frequency division
multiplexed (FDM), orthogonal frequency division multiplexed
(OFDM), time division multiplexed (TDM), frequency division
multiplexed (FDM), or code division multiplexed (CDM).
[0119] A transmitter unit (TMTR) 1720 receives and converts the
stream of symbols into one or more analog signals and further
conditions (e.g., amplifies, filters, and frequency upconverts) the
analog signals to generate a downlink signal suitable for
transmission over the wireless channel. The downlink signal is then
transmitted through an antenna 1725 to the terminals. At terminal
1730, an antenna 1735 receives the downlink signal and provides a
received signal to a receiver unit (RCVR) 1740. Receiver unit 1740
conditions (e.g., filters, amplifies, and frequency downconverts)
the received signal and digitizes the conditioned signal to obtain
samples. A symbol demodulator 1745 obtains N received symbols and
provides received pilot symbols to a processor 1750 for channel
estimation. Symbol demodulator 1745 further receives a frequency
response estimate for the downlink from processor 1750, performs
data demodulation on the received data symbols to obtain data
symbol estimates (which are estimates of the transmitted data
symbols), and provides the data symbol estimates to an RX data
processor 1755, which demodulates (i.e., symbol demaps),
deinterleaves, and decodes the data symbol estimates to recover the
transmitted traffic data. The processing by symbol demodulator 1745
and RX data processor 1755 is complementary to the processing by
symbol modulator 1715 and TX data processor 1710, respectively, at
access point 1705.
[0120] On the uplink, a TX data processor 1760 processes traffic
data and provides data symbols. A symbol modulator 1765 receives
and multiplexes the data symbols with pilot symbols, performs
modulation, and provides a stream of symbols. A transmitter unit
1770 then receives and processes the stream of symbols to generate
an uplink signal, which is transmitted by the antenna 1735 to the
access point 1705.
[0121] At access point 1705, the uplink signal from terminal 1730
is received by the antenna 1725 and processed by a receiver unit
1775 to obtain samples. A symbol demodulator 1780 then processes
the samples and provides received pilot symbols and data symbol
estimates for the uplink. An RX data processor 1785 processes the
data symbol estimates to recover the traffic data transmitted by
terminal 1730. A processor 1790 performs channel estimation for
each active terminal transmitting on the uplink.
[0122] Processors 1790 and 1750 direct (e.g., control, coordinate,
manage, . . . ) operation at access point 1705 and terminal 1730,
respectively. Respective processors 1790 and 1750 can be associated
with memory units (not shown) that store program codes and data.
Processors 1790 and 1750 can also perform computations to derive
frequency and impulse response estimates for the uplink and
downlink, respectively.
[0123] For a multiple-access system (e.g., FDMA, OFDMA, CDMA, TDMA,
and the like), multiple terminals can transmit concurrently on the
uplink. For such a system, the pilot subbands may be shared among
different terminals. The channel estimation techniques may be used
in cases where the pilot subbands for each terminal span the entire
operating band (possibly except for the band edges). Such a pilot
subband structure would be desirable to obtain frequency diversity
for each terminal The techniques described herein may be
implemented by various means. For example, these techniques may be
implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For a
hardware implementation, the processing units used for channel
estimation may be implemented within one or more application
specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors
(DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable
logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs),
processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors, other
electronic units designed to perform the functions described
herein, or a combination thereof. With software, implementation can
be through modules (e.g., procedures, functions, and so on) that
perform the functions described herein. The software codes may be
stored in memory unit and executed by the processors 1790 and
1750.
[0124] With reference to FIG. 18, illustrated is an example system
1800 that tunnels multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a
broadcast-multicast waveform. System 1800 can be utilized in a
situation when there is an emergency or another reason why all
users within a communication network should receive a similar
message (e.g., message that a tornado has been sighted in the area,
message that a bank robbery is in process, message that a child has
gone missing, and so forth). These messages can be sent as a packet
that is not a BCMC packet but can be received by multiple terminals
in the network. System 1800 may reside at least partially within a
base station. It is to be appreciated that system 1800 is
represented as including functional blocks, which may be functional
blocks that represent functions implemented by a processor,
software, or combination thereof (e.g., firmware).
[0125] System 1800 includes a logical grouping 1802 of electrical
components that can act separately or in conjunction. Logical
grouping 1802 can include an electrical component for generating a
message through protocols in a unicast stack 1804. The unicast
stack can be associated with an access node. Further, logical
grouping 1802 can comprise an electrical component for tunneling
the message to a broadcast/multicast Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol
(B-IRTP) 1806. The B-IRTP can be included in a broadcast/multicast
(BCMC) Access Node. The access node and the BCMC Access Node can
communicate over an IOS interface.
[0126] Logical grouping 1802 can also include an electrical
component for transmitting the message on a BCMC channel 1808. The
message can be transmitted to an access terminal for output to a
user. In accordance with some aspects, the message can be
transmitted by electrical component 1808 based on an AN-centric
model. In an AN-centric model, a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained per access node. In accordance with some aspects, the
message can be transmitted based on a region-centric model. In a
region-centric model a MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained
regionally. According to some aspects, the message is transmitted
on a broadcast physical channel. In according to some aspects,
logical grouping 1802 can include an electrical component for
routing the message through a B-PCP/B-MAC/B-PHY of the BCMC Access
Node before transmitting the message.
[0127] Additionally, system 1800 can include a memory 1810 that
retains instructions for executing functions associated with
electrical components 1804, 1806, and 1808 or other components.
While shown as being external to memory 1810, it is to be
understood that one or more of electrical components 1804, 1806,
and 1808 can exist within memory 1810.
[0128] With reference to FIG. 19, illustrated is an example system
1900 that receives multi-user packets of a unicast waveform over a
broadcast-multicast waveform. System 1900 can be configured to
receive messages that can be received by multiple terminals as if
the message was sent as a BCMC packet. System 1900 can reside at
least partially within a mobile device. It is to be appreciated
that system 1900 is represented as including functional blocks,
which can be functional blocks that represent functions implemented
by a processor, software, or combination thereof (e.g.,
firmware).
[0129] System 1900 includes a logical grouping 1902 of electrical
components that can act separately or in conjunction. Logical
grouping 1902 can include an electrical component for receiving a
message over a broadcast-multicast waveform 1904. The message
received over the broadcast-waveform can be an AN-centric
deployment-model, wherein the MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is
maintained per access node. In accordance with some aspects, the
message received over the broadcast-waveform can be a
region-centric deployment-model, wherein the
MulticastIP/Port-to-BCMCFlowID is maintained regionally. In some
aspects, the message is received on a broadcast physical
channel.
[0130] Logical grouping 1902 can also comprise an electrical
component for tunneling the message though a B-IRTP 1906 and an
electrical component for routing the message though a unicast stack
1908. Moreover, logical grouping 1902 can include an electrical
component for outputting the message to a user 1910.
[0131] In accordance with some aspects, logical grouping 1902 can
include an electrical component for reviewing a type field in a
Broadcast Packet Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header of the
message before routing the message though the unicast stack. The
type field can indicate whether the message is a BCMC signaling
message. According to some aspects, logical grouping 1902 can
include an electrical component for reviewing a type field in a
Broadcast Packet Consolidation Protocol (B-PCP) header to determine
if the message is a BCMC signaling message. The B-PCP can perform
framing of higher layer packets. In accordance with some aspects,
logical grouping 1902 can include an electrical component for
analyzing a begin filed of the B-PCP to ascertain a first fragment
of the higher layer packet and an electrical component for
analyzing an end field of the B-PCP to ascertain a last fragment of
the higher layer packet.
[0132] Additionally, system 1900 can include a memory 1912 that
retains instructions for executing functions associated with
electrical components 1904, 1906, 1908 and 1910 or other
components. While shown as being external to memory 1912, it is to
be understood that one or more of electrical components 1904, 1906,
1908 and 1910 can exist within memory 1912.
[0133] With reference to FIG. 20, illustrated is an example system
2000 that tunnels out of band signaling of a broadcast-multicast
waveform over a unicast waveform. System 2000 can reside at least
partially within a base station. It is to be appreciated that
system 2000 is represented as including functional blocks, which
can be functional blocks that represent functions implemented by a
processor, software, or combination thereof (e.g., firmware).
[0134] System 2000 includes a logical grouping 2002 of electrical
components that can act separately or in conjunction. Logical
grouping 2002 can include an electrical component for generating a
message 2004. The message can be generated through protocols in a
broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack. Generating the message can be
performed by a BCMC Access Node that communicates with a serving
access node through an IOS interface. Further, logical grouping
2002 can comprise an electrical component for transmitting the
message over a unicast waveform 2006. The message can be
transmitted so that the message can be rendered (e.g., audio,
visual, and so forth) on a mobile device. The message can be
transmitted to a unicast stack of a mobile device, for example.
[0135] In accordance with some aspects, logical grouping 2002 can
include an electrical component for tunneling the message though an
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (IRTP) of a serving access node
before transmitting the message over the unicast channel. In
accordance with some aspects, logical grouping 2002 can include an
electrical component for transmitting the message on a physical
channel of a unicast stack and/or an electrical component for
transmitting the message using a Broadcast MACID to allow a
plurality of mobile devices to receive the generated message.
Additionally, logical grouping 2002 can include an electrical
component for including a structure of a BCMC waveform in the
generated message.
[0136] Additionally, system 2000 can include a memory 2008 that
retains instructions for executing functions associated with
electrical components 2004 and 2006 or other components. While
shown as being external to memory 2008, it is to be understood that
one or more of electrical components 2004 and 2006 can exist within
memory 2008.
[0137] With reference to FIG. 21, illustrated is an example system
2100 that receives a tunneled out of band signaling of a
broadcast-multicast waveform over a unicast waveform. System 2100
can reside at least partially within a mobile device. It is to be
appreciated that system 2100 is represented as including functional
blocks, which can be functional blocks that represent functions
implemented by a processor, software, or combination thereof (e.g.,
firmware).
[0138] System 2100 includes a logical grouping 2102 of electrical
components that can act separately or in conjunction. Logical
grouping 2102 can include an electrical component for receiving a
message over a unicast waveform 1204. The message can be received
on a unicast channel and can be from a serving access node. The
received message can be a BCMC protocol message that was sent with
a Broadcast MACID. In accordance with some aspects, the received
message contains information about a structure of a BCMCS waveform.
Additionally or alternatively, the received message is from a
serving access node that communicates with a BCMC Access Node
though an IOS interface.
[0139] Logical grouping 2102 can comprise an electrical component
for processing the message through a unicast stack 2106. Further,
logical grouping 2102 can comprise an electrical component for
routing the message to a broadcast/multicast (BCMC) stack 2108.
Additionally, logical grouping 2102 can include an electrical
component for outputting the message to a user 2110.
[0140] Additionally, logical grouping 2102 can include an
electrical component for tunneling the message though an
Inter-Route Tunneling Protocol (IRTP) before routing the message to
the BCMC stack. Additionally or alternatively, logical grouping
2102 can include an electrical component for transmitting the
message through a PHY MAC of the unicast stack before routing the
message to the BCMC Stack.
[0141] Further, system 2100 can include a memory 2112 that retains
instructions for executing functions associated with electrical
components 2104, 2106, 2108, and 2110 or other components. While
shown as being external to memory 2112, it is to be understood that
one or more of electrical components 2104, 2106, 2108, and 2110 can
exist within memory 2112.
[0142] It is to be understood that the embodiments described herein
may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware,
microcode, or any combination thereof. When the systems and/or
methods are implemented in software, firmware, middleware or
microcode, program code or code segments, they may be stored in a
machine-readable medium, such as a storage component. A code
segment may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a
program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a
class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or
program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code
segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving
information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.
Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed,
forwarded, or transmitted using any suitable means including memory
sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission,
etc.
[0143] For a software implementation, the techniques described
herein may be implemented with modules (e.g., procedures,
functions, and so on) that perform the functions described herein.
The software codes may be stored in memory units and executed by
processors. The memory unit may be implemented within the processor
or external to the processor, in which case it can be
communicatively coupled to the processor through various means as
is known in the art. Further, at least one processor may include
one or more modules operable to perform the functions described
herein.
[0144] Moreover, various aspects or features described herein may
be implemented as a method, apparatus, or article of manufacture
using standard programming and/or engineering techniques. The term
"article of manufacture" as used herein is intended to encompass a
computer program accessible from any computer-readable device,
carrier, or media. For example, computer-readable media can include
but are not limited to magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disk,
floppy disk, magnetic strips, etc.), optical disks (e.g., compact
disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), etc.), smart cards, and
flash memory devices (e.g., EPROM, card, stick, key drive, etc.).
Additionally, various storage media described herein can represent
one or more devices and/or other machine-readable media for storing
information. The term "machine-readable medium" can include,
without being limited to, wireless channels and various other media
capable of storing, containing, and/or carrying instruction(s)
and/or data. Additionally, a computer program product may include a
computer readable medium having one or more instructions or codes
operable to cause a computer to perform the functions described
herein.
[0145] What has been described above includes examples of one or
more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every
conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes
of describing the aforementioned embodiments, but one of ordinary
skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and
permutations of various embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the
described embodiments are intended to embrace all such alterations,
modifications and variations that fall within scope of the appended
claims. To the extent that the term "includes" is used in either
the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be
inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as
"comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in
a claim. Furthermore, the term "or" as used in either the detailed
description of the claims is meant to be a "non-exclusive or".
* * * * *