Hybrid Network Client Device Protocol Back-off Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid network operations, client devices experience data transmission time-outs due to periodic 'tune-out' periods from one network to perform maintenance on another, leading to TCP server back-offs and reduced throughput.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mitigation algorithm on client devices to delay packet acknowledgments or trigger false network trouble indications, allowing the server to extend timeout intervals and prevent data server back-offs during measurement gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the client device performs periodic tune-out from LTE network to perform CDMA 1X maintenance actions, then the device can maintain hybrid network operation capability, but the TCP server will experience data transmission time-outs and implement back-off
Solution Approach 1:
The client device delays packet acknowledgments (ACKs) just before entering the measurement gap period. This preliminary action anticipates the upcoming tune-out and proactively manages the TCP server's transmission behavior, preventing the server from initiating back-off procedures during the measurement gap when the device is temporarily unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The delayed ACK mechanism acts as an intermediary signal to the TCP server, indirectly communicating the device's upcoming unavailability without direct coordination. The delayed ACK serves as a subtle cue that causes the server to extend its retransmission timeout, thereby mediating between the device's hybrid operation needs and the server's data transmission requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the TCP server implements standard timeout mechanisms without awareness of device tune-out periods, then the server maintains simple operation, but data transmission throughput is reduced due to unnecessary back-offs
Solution Approach 1:
The client device autonomously manages the TCP transmission timing by delaying its own ACKs, eliminating the need for server-side modifications or complex coordination protocols. This self-service approach allows the server to maintain its simple standard timeout mechanisms while the client independently optimizes the transmission schedule to avoid throughput reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
By delaying ACKs in advance of the measurement gap, the client device preliminarily controls the server's transmission behavior without requiring the server to know about or coordinate with the device's hybrid operation schedule. This preliminary action maintains server simplicity while preventing throughput loss.
3Reliability
If the client device delays packet acknowledgments to prevent server time-outs, then data transmission continuity is improved, but the device must execute complex mitigation algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The delayed ACK serves as a simple intermediary mechanism that achieves complex coordination goals. Instead of implementing a complex algorithm that directly coordinates with the TCP server, the device uses the simple intermediary of delayed ACK timing to indirectly signal its measurement gap schedule, achieving reliable data transmission with minimal algorithmic complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device's TCP stack autonomously implements the delay logic based on its own measurement gap schedule, eliminating the need for complex external coordination algorithms. This self-service approach maintains data transmission reliability while keeping the device's operational complexity low.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for mitigating data server time-outs in e.g., a hybrid wireless network. In one exemplary embodiment, a client device operating in a hybrid network environment utilizes its knowledge about tune-away periods so as to minimally affect data network operation. For example, during periods of data downlink activity, the client device induces some delay in the acknowledgement packets sent back towards the network prior to entering into a tune away period. These delayed acknowledgement packets result in an increased retransmission time out period value thereby reducing the probability of encountering a data server time-out. Alternative embodiments are also discussed which preoccupy the network apparatus during these tune away periods so as to also mitigate time-outs during these periods. These mitigation algorithms are useful in both downlink and uplink data transmissions. Apparatus for implementing these methodologies are also disclosed.