Dynamic Uplink Path Selection for Power-Efficient 5G NSA

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing telecommunication technologies face challenges in dynamically managing uplink paths for user equipment (UE) in 5G non-standalone deployments, leading to inefficient power consumption, poor uplink and downlink performance, and suboptimal user experience due to static and preset UL path configurations.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for dynamically determining optimal uplink paths by assessing LTE and NR UL path qualities in real-time, using threshold values and timer conditions to select the most suitable path, thereby optimizing power usage and performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If static and preset UL path configuration is used, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but power efficiency deteriorates and uplink performance worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveUL path configuration simplicityVSAvoidpower efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic UL path configuration that automatically adjusts the primary UL path between MCG and SCG based on real-time UL path quality measurements. The system transitions from static preset configuration to dynamic adaptive configuration, where the primary UL path is determined by comparing LTE and NR UL path qualities against thresholds and selecting the optimal path based on current network conditions, thereby improving power efficiency without significantly increasing operational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs feedback mechanisms where UL path quality is continuously measured and evaluated against predetermined thresholds. The system uses timer conditions and quality comparisons to determine when to switch primary UL paths, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing network conditions. This feedback-driven approach enables automatic optimization of power efficiency based on actual UL path performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Device complexity

If static and preset UL path configuration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but uplink performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveUL path configuration complexityVSAvoiduplink performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static to dynamic UL path configuration, automatically selecting the primary UL path based on real-time quality measurements. The patent implements dynamic path selection between MCG and SCG using timer conditions and quality thresholds, enabling the system to adapt to changing network conditions and optimize uplink performance without requiring complex manual configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the UL path configuration system to self-optimize by automatically measuring UL path quality, comparing it against thresholds, and selecting the optimal primary UL path without external intervention. The system uses embedded timer conditions and quality evaluation logic to autonomously manage path selection, improving uplink performance while keeping device complexity manageable through automated decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Use of energy by moving object

If dynamic UL path determination is implemented, then power efficiency is improved and uplink performance increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower efficiencyVSAvoidUL path management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the UL path management into distinct functional components: quality measurement, threshold comparison, timer condition evaluation, and path selection. By dividing the dynamic path determination process into modular segments with clear responsibilities, the system achieves sophisticated power optimization while managing complexity through structured organization of management functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent manages complexity by focusing on changing key parameters (UL path quality, threshold values, timer conditions) rather than redesigning the entire system. The dynamic determination mechanism adjusts specific parameters like primary UL path selection and quality thresholds while maintaining the overall architectural framework, thereby improving power efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Productivity

If dynamic UL path determination is implemented, then uplink performance is improved, but user of energy increases due to continuous monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuplink performanceVSAvoidenergy for path monitoring
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic UL path quality monitoring using timer conditions rather than continuous monitoring. The system evaluates UL path quality at predetermined intervals defined by timer thresholds, reducing the energy consumption associated with constant monitoring while maintaining effective uplink performance optimization. This periodic approach balances performance improvement with energy conservation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS12513665B2System, method, and computer program for managing uplink path
Publication Date: 2025.12.30 RAKUTEN MOBILE INC
  • US12513665B2 patent drawing
  • US12513665B2 patent drawing
  • US12513665B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are system, method, and device for managing uplink path. The system including: a network node including: a memory storing instructions; and at least one processor configured to execute the instructions to: determine one or more optimal uplink (UL) data paths for a user equipment (UE); and provide information associated with the optimal UL path to the UE.