Fast Scan Algorithm for Wireless Network Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices often remain or alternate between lower priority wireless communication technologies and networks, leading to unnecessary delays in switching back to higher priority networks, especially after a circuit-switched fallback (CSFB) call, which can result in suboptimal data traffic experiences due to ongoing applications running in the background.
Innovation Solution
A fast scan algorithm is implemented to quickly identify and switch to higher priority networks, such as LTE, by suspending data traffic on lower priority networks and periodically scanning for better options based on device and network conditions, including location and application states, using timers to manage the scanning process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the mobile device remains on lower priority network after CSFB call to maintain data traffic continuity, then data traffic experience is maintained, but switching delay to higher priority network increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic scanning at defined RRC states (IDLE, URA_PCH, PCH) to detect higher priority networks. The device periodically checks for LTE networks while maintaining connectivity on lower priority networks, enabling timely switching when better networks become available without continuous monitoring that would consume excessive resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-defining scan triggers based on RRC state transitions and location changes. When specific conditions are met (entering IDLE state, location update, cell reselection), the device proactively scans for higher priority networks before data traffic is affected, reducing switching delay while maintaining efficiency.
2Speed
If the device continuously scans for higher priority networks, then switching speed improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic scanning at defined RRC states (IDLE, URA_PCH, PCH) to detect higher priority networks. The device periodically checks for LTE networks while maintaining connectivity on lower priority networks, enabling timely switching when better networks become available without continuous monitoring that would consume excessive resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts scanning behavior based on current RRC state and network conditions. Scanning is activated only at appropriate states (IDLE, URA_PCH, PCH) rather than continuously, and can be triggered by specific events like location updates or cell reselections, optimizing the balance between switching speed and energy consumption.
3Productivity
If the device switches to higher priority network immediately after CSFB call, then data traffic efficiency improves, but connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-defining scan triggers based on RRC state transitions and location changes. When specific conditions are met (entering IDLE state, location update, cell reselection), the device proactively scans for higher priority networks before data traffic is affected, reducing switching delay while maintaining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms by monitoring RRC state transitions and network conditions to determine optimal switching moments. The device receives feedback from the network about available higher priority networks and user location, using this information to make informed switching decisions that maintain connection stability while improving data traffic efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
In a wireless communication system, techniques and devices are presented that can perform fast scan algorithms from a lower priority service, e.g., following a circuit-switched fallback (CSFB) voice call, to search for a higher priority network or technology to select. The higher priority network might be an LTE technology network or a high priority PLMN.