Cellular Network Readiness Evaluation Using Churn and Coverage Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack a universal and accurate approach to evaluate network readiness across different radio access technologies (RATs), particularly in rural areas where 4G LTE is predominantly used, leading to inconsistent cellular network coverage and resource deployment inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that collect and correlate measured coverage data with churn data to determine network readiness, deploying additional resources to areas identified as not ready, using a normalized score that adjusts for varying coverage metrics and incorporates churn rate as a baseline to assess network performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If newer technologies such as 5G NR are increasingly deployed in urban and suburban areas, then network performance in urban areas is improved, but coverage in small town and rural areas deteriorates as these areas continue to be supported primarily through older technologies such as 4G LTE
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network evaluation process by separating different RATs (4G LTE and 5G NR) into distinct evaluation categories. This allows independent assessment of each technology's performance and coverage characteristics, enabling targeted resource allocation to specific areas and technologies rather than treating the network as a monolithic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by evaluating network readiness at specific geographical locations rather than providing a single aggregate score. The system determines network readiness status for individual locations based on their specific RAT availability, allowing differentiated resource deployment to urban versus rural areas with different technological infrastructures.
2Device complexity
If existing network evaluation metrics are used to score network performance as a whole, then overall network performance assessment is simplified, but the ability to score different RATs separately is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network evaluation into separate RAT-specific scores (4G LTE score and 5G NR score) while maintaining an overall network readiness determination. This segmentation allows the system to preserve the simplicity of aggregate evaluation while incorporating the versatility of technology-specific assessment through weighted combinations of individual RAT performances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal network readiness scoring framework that can evaluate multiple RATs simultaneously. The system uses a common evaluation methodology that adapts to different technologies, producing both individual RAT scores and an aggregated network readiness status that works across diverse network configurations.
3Productivity
If resources are deployed based on aggregate network performance metrics, then resource allocation is simplified, but efficient deployment to specific locations with network deficiencies is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables precise location-specific network readiness assessment by evaluating each geographical area's readiness status individually based on its specific RAT availability and performance characteristics. This allows resource deployment decisions to be tailored to local conditions, directing resources to specific locations with identified deficiencies rather than applying uniform allocation across the entire network.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for enhancing cellular network coverage. In order to enhance network coverage, churn data is correlated with the measured coverage data for the multiple locations in the cellular network. Based on the correlation, a network readiness status in the multiple locations is determined. Network resources are then deployed to any of the multiple locations determined to have a network readiness status of not ready.