Dual-Mode A-GPS Module for C-Plane U-Plane Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite position location systems, such as GPS, face challenges in processing location service messages due to the need for extensive network infrastructure and compatibility issues between control-plane (C-plane) and user-plane (U-plane) signaling protocols, leading to limitations in receiving necessary location service messages when an A-GPS device supports one protocol but enters a network using the other.
Innovation Solution
A mobile receiver with satellite signal reception capabilities and wireless circuitry, equipped with a module providing both user-plane and control-plane interfaces, enabling the processing of location service messages regardless of the signaling protocol used, allowing communication through either C-plane or U-plane signaling mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If A-GPS devices are manufactured to support only one signaling protocol (C-plane or U-plane), then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different network infrastructures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-mode signaling module that provides both C-plane and U-plane interfaces within a single A-GPS device. This multi-functional design enables the device to operate with either signaling protocol, making it universally compatible with different network infrastructures without requiring separate devices for each protocol type.
2Reliability
If extensive network infrastructure is deployed to support C-plane signaling, then the reliability of location service messages is improved, but the ease of manufacture and deployment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary module that translates between C-plane and U-plane signaling protocols. This mediator component allows the system to maintain reliability by supporting both protocols while avoiding the need for extensive C-plane infrastructure deployment, as U-plane can leverage existing IP-based network infrastructure.
3Ease of operation
If A-GPS devices use U-plane signaling to leverage existing IP infrastructure, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision of location services deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic signaling selection mechanism that can switch between C-plane and U-plane protocols based on network conditions and service requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to use U-plane for general operations leveraging IP infrastructure while switching to C-plane when higher measurement precision is required, optimizing both ease of operation and measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for processing location service messages in a satellite position location system is described. In one example, a mobile receiver includes a satellite signal receiver, wireless circuitry, and at least one module. The satellite signal receiver is configured to receive satellite positioning system signals, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) signals. The wireless circuitry is configured to communicate location service messages between the mobile receiver and a server through a cellular communication network. The location service messages may include any type of data related to A-GPS operation, such as assistance data, position data, request and response data, and the like. The at least one module is configured to provide a user-plane interface and a control-plane interface between the satellite signal receiver and the wireless transceiver. The at leat one module is capable of processing location service messages communicated using either the control-plane signaling or user-plane signaling mechanisms.