In-band signaling reliability via static de-jitter buffering

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communication systems, particularly in LTE networks, the transfer of telematics data and metadata via in-band signaling over voice channels is unreliable due to voice processing functions and adaptive de-jitter buffering, leading to interference and reduced data throughput, especially in scenarios where out-of-band signaling is not supported by the service center.

Innovation Solution

The method involves modifying the decoding process by disabling or adjusting the adaptive de-jitter buffer and using a transcoding module to alter the decoding of input signals in response to in-band signaling indications, ensuring reliable transfer of data by employing a static de-jitter buffer and optimizing codec settings for better data integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If adaptive de-jitter buffering is used for voice processing in LTE networks, then voice quality and network adaptability are improved, but reliability of in-band data transfer deteriorates due to interference and processing delays

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliability of in-band data transferVSAvoidvoice processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the harmful adaptive de-jitter buffering function from the voice processing chain during in-band data transfer. By detecting when in-band signaling is present and temporarily disabling adaptive buffering, the system isolates the data transfer process from the interfering voice processing functions, allowing reliable data transmission without the complexity of adaptive buffering adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between adaptive de-jitter buffering mode (for normal voice communication) and static buffering mode (for in-band data transfer). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize voice quality during normal operation while ensuring data reliability during emergency signaling, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity through temporal separation of functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If voice processing functions are applied to in-band signaling channels, then network resource utilization is improved, but data throughput and signal integrity deteriorate due to interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidsignal interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the harmful effect of voice processing interference into a beneficial detection mechanism. By monitoring for the presence of in-band signaling patterns, the system identifies when data transfer is occurring and automatically adjusts buffering behavior. This transforms the interference problem into a triggering signal for protective actions, ensuring data integrity while maintaining network resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Adaptability or versatility

If in-band signaling is used for emergency data transfer, then service center compatibility is improved, but transfer reliability deteriorates due to interference from voice processing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice center compatibilityVSAvoiddata transfer reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary detection and control mechanism between the in-band signaling transmitter and receiver. This intermediary layer monitors for in-band signal presence and coordinates buffering behavior across the network path. By acting as a mediator that detects signaling conditions and triggers appropriate buffering modes, the system ensures reliable data transfer while maintaining compatibility with legacy service centers that require in-band signaling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3993295B1Enhanced fallback to in-band mode for emergency calling
Publication Date: 2023.10.04 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP3993295B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3993295B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3993295B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Techniques are disclosed for increasing the reliability of transferring data via in-band signaling in a audio channel of a communication network. Techniques include causing an audio decoding process to modify the decoding of audio signals for the audio channel based on obtaining an indication of in-band signaling. The modified decoding may replace an adaptive de-jitter buffer by a static de-jitter buffer or increase the buffering time of an adaptive de-jitter buffer. The decoded audio signals may be provided to an in-band message detector, an audio encoder or an audio playback device based on the indication of in-band signaling. The techniques may be employed by a user equipment, a media gateway control function or a media gateway to improve the reliability of in-band transfer of a minimum set of data (MSD) for a Next Generation eCall.