Access Terminal Battery Life via Dynamic Search Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Access terminals experience reduced battery life when continuously searching for WCDMA coverage on the edge of 3G network areas, as they are required to scan for WCDMA cells every 30 seconds, even if they are outside the coverage area, leading to unnecessary power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a search rate control mechanism that adjusts the frequency of searching for WCDMA cells based on criteria such as movement and signal strength, using back-off schemes like exponential or linear back-off, to reduce the power consumption and extend battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE continuously searches for WCDMA cells every 30 seconds according to the NCELL list, then the UE can detect WCDMA coverage and maintain network connectivity, but the battery life is significantly reduced due to unnecessary power consumption in areas outside WCDMA coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the search rate adjustable rather than fixed. The search rate is dynamically modified based on detected criteria such as signal strength thresholds and movement detection, allowing the system to adapt between aggressive searching (when coverage is likely) and conservative searching (when coverage is unlikely), thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining connectivity and conserving battery power
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of search rate from a static value to a dynamic variable that can be modified based on multiple criteria including signal strength measurements and movement detection. This parameter change allows the system to optimize battery consumption while maintaining adequate network connectivity by adjusting the search frequency according to environmental conditions
2Use of energy by moving object
If the UE reduces the search rate to conserve battery power, then battery life is extended, but the ability to detect WCDMA coverage and perform timely handovers is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the search rate parameter dynamically based on multiple criteria including signal strength thresholds and movement detection. When the UE detects movement or strong signal conditions, it increases the search rate to ensure timely coverage detection, while reducing the rate during stationary periods with weak signals to conserve battery, thus maintaining detection capability while extending battery life
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE continuously monitors signal strength and movement conditions, then uses this feedback to adjust the search rate. This closed-loop control ensures that the search rate is optimized based on real-time conditions, preventing both excessive battery consumption and missed coverage opportunities
Data Source
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AI summary
The method and apparatus as described are directed toward techniques and mechanisms to improve access terminal battery life through search rate control. Controlling the rate at which access terminals search for alternate networks in a cell, and more particularly reducing unnecessary attempts, significantly increases the battery life of the access terminal.