Dynamic MPTCP Mode Switching for Power Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing Multipath Transmission Control Protocol (MPTCP) in wireless communication systems operates in static modes, which do not consider power and data consumption factors, leading to suboptimal performance and increased power drain when multiple interfaces are enabled, particularly in devices like mobile phones and tablets.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for dynamically controlling MPTCP interface modes based on monitored factors such as user activity, device events, and bandwidth requirements, allowing for adaptive power and data management by switching between interface modes during data transport.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If MPTCP creates subflows on all available network interfaces, then data throughput is improved, but power consumption increases exponentially

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching for MPTCP, transitioning from static preset modes to adaptive selection based on current network conditions and application requirements. The system monitors interface availability, data transport needs, and power consumption levels to dynamically adjust the number and configuration of active subflows, thereby optimizing the throughput-power tradeoff in real-time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes key operational parameters including the number of active interfaces, subflow configuration, and mode selection (full-MPTCP vs. backup mode) based on monitored factors such as network conditions, application type, and power consumption thresholds. This parameter adaptation allows the system to shift between aggressive throughput optimization and conservative power savings

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If MPTCP operates in full-MPTCP mode with all interfaces enabled, then data transport capability is improved, but device battery life deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transport capabilityVSAvoidbattery life
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts MPTCP operation mode based on real-time monitoring of battery status, network conditions, and application requirements. During high-activity periods with sufficient power, the system enables full-MPTCP for maximum throughput. During low-power states or when battery level drops, it transitions to backup mode or disables MPTCP, thereby preserving battery life while maintaining data transport capability when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic monitoring and evaluation of operational factors including battery status, network interface availability, and data transport patterns. This periodic assessment enables the system to adjust MPTCP mode at appropriate intervals, balancing continuous data transport needs with periodic power conservation to extend overall battery life

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Device complexity

If static MPTCP mode is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to current data transport needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to data transport needs
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors operational factors including network interface status, data transport requirements, application type, and power consumption levels. Based on this feedback, the MPTCP mode is automatically adjusted to match current needs, enabling the system to adapt to varying conditions while maintaining relatively simple operation through automated decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-configuration and self-optimization of MPTCP modes without requiring manual user intervention. The embedded logic automatically evaluates monitored factors and selects appropriate operational modes, making the system adaptable to changing conditions while keeping the user interface simple and the overall system ease of operation high

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3408975B1Method and apparatus for managing multipath transmission control protocol
Publication Date: 2020.04.29 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3408975B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2A
  • EP3408975B1 patent drawingFigure 2B~3B
  • EP3408975B1 patent drawingFigure 3C~3F

AI summary

Methods and systems for managing a Multipath Transmission Control Protocol (MPTCP) in an electronic device during data transport between the electronic device (client device) and other electronic device (host device) are described. The method includes monitoring one or more factors associated with the MPTCP implemented in the client device. Further, based on the one or more factors that are monitored, the method includes determining whether to enable the MPTCP in the electronic device for a current data transport. Thereafter, the method includes determining a mode, among a plurality of modes provided for the MPTCP, to control a plurality of subflows of the MPTCP when the MPTCP is enabled for the current data transport. The method further includes dynamically switching the mode of the MPTCP during the current data transport based on the one or more factors being monitored during the current data transport.