Patent ID: 8259637
Filing Date: 2012-09-04
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
1. A method for extending the coverage and/or improving the capacity of wireless communication networks comprising: inserting a Relay Node (RN) in the Radio Access Network (RAN) where the RN relays the signal between a Base Station node (eNB) and a User Equipment (UE); wirelessly connecting the RN to the eNB; wherein the eNB uses the same radio access technology (RAT) for a radio link between the eNB and the UE and a radio link between the eNB and the RN; wherein the RN uses the same RAT for a radio link between the eNB and the RN and a radio link between the RN and the UE; and wherein the RN supports at least a Physical Layer (PHY), a Medium Access Control (MAC) sub-layer and a Radio Link Control (RLC) sub-layer protocol.