QUALCOMM Incorporated
Relay for enhanced machine type communication and narrow band-internet of things

Abstract:

Coverage enhancement of an eMTC system may be limited if an MTC device switches from transmission mode to reception mode using subframes that may be utilized for transmissions or receptions. The present disclosure provides a mechanism by which a device may determine a set of valid subframes for use in communicating via a backhaul link, an access link, and/or a direct link. The present disclosure also provides a mechanism by which a device may switch between different communication link operations using subframes unavailable for transmitting and/or receiving data. The apparatus may receive repetition configuration information from a base station in direct communication with a UE. The apparatus may determine whether the base station is a relay node. The apparatus may determine a repetition configuration for communication between the base station and the UE based at least on the repetition configuration information and whether the base station is a relay node.