Adaptive FEC Block Sizing for Single Encoder-Decoder Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional wireless systems employ a fixed forward error correction (FEC) code scheme, which can lead to inefficient communication due to changes in wireless network characteristics and channel conditions, resulting in reduced performance for some user equipment (UEs) and limited flexibility in adapting to varying conditions.

Innovation Solution

The system dynamically selects and uses multiple FEC codes based on wireless system parameters, such as channel quality indicators (CQI), allowing for concurrent use of different FEC codes among UEs and adapting to changes in communication channels by adjusting information block lengths through padding or segmentation, enabling efficient error correction across varying conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed FEC code scheme is employed, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying channel conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFEC code scheme complexityVSAvoidAdaptability to channel conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic FEC code selection where the system transitions from a static fixed code scheme to a dynamic adaptive scheme. The base station and user equipment continuously monitor channel conditions (CQI, RSRP, RSRQ) and adjust the FEC code selection in real-time, making the system flexible and responsive to varying wireless environments while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of FEC code selection from a fixed value to a dynamically adjustable parameter based on channel conditions. By modifying parameters such as code rate, block length, and code type (e.g., LDPC, Polar, Turbo codes) according to measured channel quality, the system achieves adaptability without requiring completely new system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple FEC codes are used dynamically, then adaptability to channel conditions is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAdaptability to channel conditionsVSAvoidFEC code selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the FEC code selection process into distinct components: channel measurement (CQI, RSRP, RSRQ), code selection based on segmented criteria, and separate encoding/decoding operations. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple codes through modular, manageable steps rather than requiring complex unified processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal FEC selection mechanism that can handle multiple code types (LDPC, Polar, Turbo) and multiple selection criteria (CQI thresholds, RSRP ranges, RSRQ levels) through a single standardized procedure. This multi-functional approach enables the system to adapt to various channel conditions using one unified selection framework rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each code type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If information block lengths are adjusted through padding or segmentation, then error correction efficiency is improved, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveError correction efficiencyVSAvoidProcessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs padding or segmentation of information blocks during the encoding phase at the base station before transmission. By preparing the information blocks in advance with appropriate lengths matching the selected FEC code requirements, the system avoids time-consuming operations at the receiving end, reducing overall processing time while maintaining error correction efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10270559B2Single encoder and decoder for forward error correction coding
Publication Date: 2019.04.23 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US10270559B2 patent drawing
  • US10270559B2 patent drawing
  • US10270559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Various embodiments disclosed herein provide for a transmitter that can adjust the size of an information block or segment the information block based on a forward error correction (FEC) code optimum efficiency. Certain FEC codes are more efficient at encoding and decoding longer information blocks and if an information block is shorter than a predetermined length, the transmitter can pad the information block with a group of null bits to lengthen the information block to increase the performance of encoding and decoding the information block. In some embodiments, the transmitter can segment the information block into a set of segments, and if the last segment is below the predetermined length, the transmitter can pad the last segment.