Hybrid Access Network Traffic Partitioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
In geographic areas with existing DSL or slower fixed access networks, upgrading to fiber is costly and challenging, especially in rural areas, while deploying high-speed mobile access like city-wide WiFi is more feasible and cost-effective, leading to the need for hybrid access solutions that efficiently utilize both fixed and mobile networks to provide improved bandwidth and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A method is implemented in hybrid access systems where requests, such as HTTP GET requests, are partitioned into subrequests based on the relative throughputs of available access networks, allowing them to be transmitted over multiple networks simultaneously, enhancing bandwidth utilization and reliability by leveraging both fixed and mobile access networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fiber access networks are deployed to upgrade existing fixed access networks, then bandwidth is improved, but deployment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple access networks (fixed and mobile) into a hybrid access system that provides unified broadband service. The CPE device aggregates connections from both fixed access network and mobile access network (such as WiFi, 3G, 4G, LTE) to deliver enhanced bandwidth without requiring complete fiber deployment in every location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the access network into multiple heterogeneous connections (fixed and mobile) that operate independently but are coordinated by the CPE device. This allows the system to divide traffic across multiple paths, achieving high bandwidth where fiber is available while maintaining service in areas where only mobile access is feasible.
2Reliability
If hybrid access systems transmit data over multiple heterogeneous networks, then reliability is improved, but path selection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CPE device autonomously manages path selection and traffic distribution across multiple access networks without requiring complex external control systems. The device monitors the status of each network connection and dynamically routes traffic based on current network conditions, achieving high reliability through self-adaptive path selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic path selection where the CPE device continuously monitors network status and adjusts traffic routing in real-time. When one access network degrades or fails, the system automatically redistributes traffic through alternative paths, maintaining service reliability without manual intervention.
3Productivity
If multiple access networks are bundled together, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but traffic distribution complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CPE device implements simplified traffic distribution by initially attempting to use the fixed access network for all traffic, then progressively engaging mobile access networks only when needed (e.g., when fixed network capacity is insufficient or unavailable). This partial action approach maximizes bandwidth utilization while avoiding the complexity of continuously balancing traffic across all available networks.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving at a first network node a request to obtain data from a second network node, wherein the first and second network nodes are connected via n access networks; partitioning the request into n subrequests proportionally based on relative throughputs of the n access networks; and transmitting each of the n subrequests to the second network node via a respective one of the n access networks.