Multi-mode Modem Switching Between Cellular and NB-IoT Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices face challenges in maintaining communication due to limited cellular network coverage and high power consumption, especially in areas like basements and parking garages, and when battery power is low.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and apparatus that allows mobile devices to switch between cellular communication and Narrow Band-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) or Machine Type Communication (MTC) networks, using a multi-mode modem to extend coverage and reduce power consumption, by searching for NB-IoT cells when legacy RAT networks are not available, and switching to power-saving modes based on battery thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If cellular telephone network communication is used, then communication coverage is provided, but power consumption is high (4.5mW or more in LTE idle mode)
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the communication parameter by switching between different network modes (LTE/GSM vs. NB-IoT/MTC) based on battery power levels. When battery power is sufficient, the device operates on cellular networks for full functionality. When battery power drops below thresholds, the system transitions to NB-IoT/MTC mode which consumes significantly less power, thus resolving the contradiction between power consumption and communication availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system dynamically adapts its operating mode based on real-time battery power conditions. The device continuously monitors battery levels and automatically switches between cellular and NB-IoT/MTC networks, making the system flexible and responsive to changing power availability rather than being static.
2Area of stationary object
If cellular telephone network communication is used, then communication services are available, but coverage area is limited (cannot reach basements, parking garages, isolated locations)
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes different communication parameters for different network types. NB-IoT/MTC networks operate with different signal characteristics and power requirements that enable penetration into areas with poor cellular coverage. By switching network modes based on location and coverage needs, the system expands effective coverage area without proportionally increasing power consumption.
3Duration of action of moving object
If minimum power level is maintained for cellular communication, then communication link is maintained, but battery life is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic monitoring of battery power levels and periodically switches between communication modes. Instead of maintaining constant cellular connection, the device periodically assesses power conditions and transitions to low-power NB-IoT/MTC mode when appropriate, thereby extending battery life while maintaining essential communication capability throughout the device's operational life.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for a mobile communication device such as a mobile telephone includes a communication system that operates using narrow band-internet of things communication. The mobile communication device switches from communication using a mobile telephone communication system to communication using the narrow band-internet of things communication upon occurrence of a condition. The condition may include the mobile communication apparatus being out of range of a base station for the mobile telephone communication network or the battery level of the mobile communication device falling below a threshold. The mobile communication apparatus may switch from discontinuous reception to extended discontinuous reception If the battery power falls below a second threshold, or may switch to a power save mode if the battery power falls below a third threshold. Fewer services are available with the narrow band-internet of things communication, but the range is extended and power usage is less.