Multi-RAT Network Node Simultaneous Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cellular telecommunication systems can only use one radio access technology (RAT) at a time, leading to inefficiencies in resource utilization and energy consumption, as they lack the ability to simultaneously transmit data across multiple RATs.
Innovation Solution
The integration of multiple RATs into a unified network by splitting the radio stream at the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, allowing simultaneous use of different RATs through a Radio Access Control (RAC) layer that coordinates and manages the activation/de-activation of RRC components, data distribution, and interference management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If only one RAT is active at a time, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but resource utilization efficiency and data throughput deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data stream at the PDCP layer, creating separate data flows for different RATs. This allows simultaneous transmission over multiple RATs while maintaining independent control planes for each, thereby increasing throughput without overwhelming device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a multi-RAT controller as an intermediary layer between the application layer and individual RAT protocols. This controller manages multiple RAT connections simultaneously, coordinating data distribution and control signaling, which enables high productivity while abstracting away the complexity from end applications
2Productivity
If multiple RATs are used simultaneously, then resource utilization efficiency and data throughput are improved, but energy consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic RAT selection and activation, where the system adaptively activates or deactivates specific RATs based on current network conditions, service requirements, and energy availability. This dynamic approach allows efficient resource utilization while managing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary RAT activations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters such as PDCP buffer sizes, scheduling intervals, and RAT activation thresholds to optimize the balance between resource utilization and energy consumption. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system achieves high productivity without excessive energy usage
3Reliability
If inter-RAT handover is used when active RAT cannot meet service demands, then service continuity is maintained, but loss of time and productivity occur due to handover delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes multiple RAT connections in advance before service demands arise, maintaining standby connections that can be immediately activated. This preliminary setup eliminates handover delays by having pre-configured alternative paths ready, thus maintaining service continuity without time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous data transmission across multiple RATs simultaneously, eliminating the interruptions inherent in handover-based approaches. By maintaining active data flows on multiple RATs at once, the system ensures uninterrupted service delivery and maximizes productivity without handover delays
4Adaptability or versatility
If site acquisition and maintenance costs for multiple RATs are considered, then device complexity and operational costs increase, but adaptability and service quality improve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal multi-RAT controller that can manage multiple different RAT types through a unified interface and common control logic. This multi-functional approach enables the system to adapt to various RATs without proportionally increasing coordination complexity, as the same controller architecture handles diverse RAT protocols
Data Source
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AI summary
A network node, method and non-transitory computer-readable medium for simultaneously utilizing at least two different radio access technologies (RATs). In one embodiment, the network node includes at least one processor configured to: activate a first radio resource control (RRC) component corresponding to a first RAT, wherein the first RAT is a default RAT of a mobile terminal configured to communicate with the network node; determine whether a second RAT is available to the mobile terminal based on at least one predetermined criterion; and if the second RAT is available, activate a second RRC component corresponding to the second RAT, wherein both the first RAT and the second RAT are active at the same time to communicate with the mobile terminal.