BM-SC Segmentation for MBMS Network Sharing and Operator Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multimedia broadcast multicast services require all content, including operator-specific content, to be fed to a single shared Broadcast Multicast Service Centre (BMSC), which is undesirable due to commercial agreements, the need for higher layer service functions like access control and charging within the operator's network, and the reuse of existing BMSC platforms.
Innovation Solution
A remote station and method that detect when a device is out of coverage from the shared network and initiate a Real Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) request to a proprietary network's BMSC to maintain content delivery, allowing content to be received over a proprietary network, thereby decoupling the shared network and enabling operators to retain control and reuse existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all content is fed to a single shared BMSC, then network sharing is enabled, but operator control and commercial agreements are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the BMSC functionality into two separate entities: a shared BMSC for common content and operator-specific BMSCs for operator-controlled content. This segmentation allows operators to maintain control over their specific content while still sharing the infrastructure for common content delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a content switching function as an intermediary between the shared BMSC and operator networks. This mediator enables content routing decisions that allow operators to control which content is delivered through their network, balancing sharing benefits with operator control requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If operators use existing BMSC platforms, then infrastructure reuse is achieved, but network decoupling is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the BMSC function to allow operators to reuse their existing platforms for operator-specific content while maintaining a separate shared BMSC for common content. This reduces the need for complete network decoupling while still enabling infrastructure reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared BMSC is designed with multi-functionality to handle both common content delivery and coordinate with operator-specific BMSCs. This universal design allows operators to reuse existing platforms while maintaining a shared infrastructure for common services.
3Reliability
If content delivery switches from shared network to proprietary network, then coverage continuity is maintained, but service interruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the remote station detect shared network unavailability and proactively initiate a content switch to the proprietary network before complete service disruption occurs. This preparation minimizes the perceived interruption time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where the remote station monitors shared network coverage and triggers content switching based on detected unavailability. This feedback loop ensures seamless transition by activating the backup path when the primary path fails.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of providing multimedia broadcast multicast services (MBMS) over a communication system that comprises a shared network and a proprietary network comprises allocating a first portion of logic elements of a broadcast multicast service centre (BM-SC) to support MBMS content delivery over the shared network and allocating a second portion of logic elements of the BM-SC to support MBMS content delivery over the proprietary network.