M2M Feature Selection via Usage Conditions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mobile communication networks face challenges in supporting a wide range of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication use cases due to lack of standardized provisions, inefficient resource usage, and inability to classify devices with unique characteristics, leading to high costs and limited migration of M2M devices to LTE networks.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow operators to select and utilize specific features based on usage conditions for M2M communication, enabling efficient resource management by identifying the appropriate feature for desired functionalities, such as small data transmission, power saving, and mobility, through access point names or service flow identifiers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standardized provisions for M2M architectures are not provided, then operators can implement custom solutions for specific use cases, but device classification becomes difficult and migration to LTE networks is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustom M2M solution implementationVSAvoiddevice classification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments M2M devices into different categories based on their characteristics and requirements. It introduces device classification mechanisms that divide the homogeneous M2M device population into distinct groups (e.g., based on data transmission patterns, power consumption profiles, mobility requirements), enabling targeted feature assignment and standardized management while preserving operator flexibility for custom implementations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes by introducing new device classification parameters and feature selection criteria. It dynamically adjusts network parameters and device features based on classified device characteristics, enabling operators to select appropriate features from standardized groups while maintaining adaptability for specific use cases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If operators pre-configure device trigger solutions for all devices in the same way, then implementation is simplified, but the solution cannot address different types of devices and applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolution implementationVSAvoiddevice type coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic feature selection mechanisms that allow the system to adapt to different device types and applications. Instead of static pre-configuration, the system dynamically selects appropriate features from standardized groups based on device classification, usage conditions, and application requirements, balancing implementation simplicity with device diversity support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different features from standardized groups to different device categories based on their specific requirements. Each device type receives a tailored configuration from the available feature groups, allowing operators to maintain simplified implementation processes while addressing the unique characteristics of various M2M applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If SMS is used for device triggering, then standard interface to SMSC is available, but it does not work for devices that do not support SMS and is disadvantageous for frequently transmitting small data

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestandard interface availabilityVSAvoiddevice compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a universal device triggering mechanism that provides multiple triggering methods within a standardized framework. Instead of relying solely on SMS, the system offers alternative triggering mechanisms (e.g., HTTP requests, SIP messages, other signaling protocols) that are compatible with diverse device types, while maintaining the reliability of standardized interfaces through a unified architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If EPS bearer establishment is frequent for small data transmission, then data can be transmitted, but network resources are inefficiently used

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission capabilityVSAvoidnetwork resource efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements mechanisms to maintain continuous or persistent data bearers for M2M devices that frequently transmit small data packets. Instead of repeatedly establishing and releasing EPS bearers, the system keeps bearers active or in a low-power state, enabling continuous data transmission without the overhead of frequent establishment procedures, thereby improving network resource efficiency while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentEP3155784B1Machine to machine capabilities in mobile communication networks
Publication Date: 2018.12.19 NOKIA SOLUTIONS & NETWORKS OY
  • EP3155784B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3155784B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3155784B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

There are provided measures for machine to machine capabilities in mobile communication networks. Such measures exemplarily comprise establishing a connection to obtain machine type communication related services identified by an APN or a service flow identifier from the network, receiving information indicative of a feature of a group of features assigned to a certain functionality, said feature being selected from said group of features based on usage conditions of said connection, and utilizing said feature for said certain functionality in relation to said connection.