Core Network Throughput Measurement for Path Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for switching communication paths between mobile communication networks and wireless LANs lack effective throughput measurement and notification mechanisms, leading to inefficient path switching decisions.
Innovation Solution
A network apparatus and radio terminal equipped with controllers that measure and notify throughput information to a base station, allowing for informed decisions on switching communication paths based on measured throughput, thereby optimizing path selection between mobile communication networks and wireless LANs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If communication path switching is performed based on conventional determination parameters (RSRP, RSRQ, channel utilization), then path switching capability is provided, but throughput measurement and notification mechanisms are lacking leading to inefficient switching decisions
Solution Approach 1:
The radio terminal autonomously measures its own throughput when connected to the wireless LAN and generates notification messages containing this measurement data. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external measurement infrastructure, achieving accurate throughput measurement without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the radio terminal measures throughput, notifies the base station of this measurement, and the base station uses this feedback information to make informed path switching decisions. This closed-loop feedback system enables efficient switching by providing accurate throughput data back to the network controller.
2Productivity
If throughput measurement and notification is implemented, then path switching efficiency is improved, but additional measurement and communication overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The radio terminal performs throughput measurement in advance while connected to the wireless LAN, before the actual path switching decision is made. This preliminary measurement ensures that accurate throughput data is available when needed for switching decisions, improving efficiency without causing time loss during the critical switching moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements selective throughput measurement - the radio terminal measures throughput only when specific conditions are met (e.g., when connected to wireless LAN and switching is considered). This partial action approach avoids continuous measurement overhead while ensuring measurements are taken when they will be most useful for switching decisions.
3Reliability
If accurate throughput data is provided for switching decisions, then service quality is maintained, but suboptimal transitions are prevented requiring better decision mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The base station receives throughput notification from the radio terminal and uses this feedback information to evaluate whether path switching would maintain or improve service quality. By incorporating real throughput measurements into the decision mechanism, the system avoids suboptimal transitions without requiring overly complex decision algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces throughput as an additional parameter to the existing path switching decision framework (which traditionally used RSRP, RSRQ, etc.). By adding this new parameter, the decision mechanism becomes more informed and reliable, enabling better switching decisions while building upon existing infrastructure rather than requiring complete system redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
A network apparatus according to a first aspect includes a controller configured to measure a throughput of communication which is performed by a radio terminal via a wireless LAN. The controller is configured to give a notification of throughput information indicating the throughput, to a base station constituting a mobile communication network.