Multi-Path Uplink Switching Using Direct and Indirect Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

In multi-path scenarios, path switch is inefficient, QoS is not adequately satisfied, and wireless resource utilization is low.

Innovation Solution

A multi-path processing method and apparatus that enables a remote terminal equipment to transmit data using a direct path and/or an indirect path based on indication information from a network device, or based on remaining PDBs, uplink grants, SR transmissions, and loss timers, to efficiently manage path switching and resource utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If path switch is implemented in multi-path scenarios, then communication reliability is improved, but path switching efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidpath switching efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple paths (direct path and indirect path via relay UE) before actual data transmission. The network device configures both paths in advance, and the remote UE maintains readiness to switch between paths. When path switch is needed, the pre-established configuration allows rapid transition without reconfiguring the entire communication path, thus improving switching efficiency while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network device monitors the status of both direct and indirect paths, and provides indication information to the remote UE about which path to use. The remote UE reports its status and available paths to the network device, enabling intelligent path selection and switching decisions that balance reliability with switching efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If multiple paths are configured for data transmission, then QoS satisfaction is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQoS satisfactionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional path selection mechanism that can handle different data types and quality requirements through a unified framework. The same path selection logic works for both direct and indirect paths, and the network device can dynamically assign different paths to different QoS flows based on their requirements. This multi-functional approach improves QoS satisfaction without proportionally increasing device complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the data transmission function by separating direct path transmission and indirect path transmission into distinct but coordinated mechanisms. Each path has its own resource allocation and management, but both are controlled by a unified path selection entity. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each path while maintaining overall system manageability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If path switching is frequently performed, then adaptability is improved, but wireless resource utilization deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidwireless resource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing both direct and indirect paths with appropriate resource allocations before actual data transmission begins. This pre-configuration allows the system to adapt to changing conditions by simply switching between pre-ready paths rather than creating new paths dynamically, thereby improving adaptability while minimizing wireless resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network device continuously monitors path conditions and provides guidance to the remote UE. This feedback loop enables intelligent path selection that adapts to changing network conditions without causing frequent unnecessary path switches, thus improving adaptability while optimizing wireless resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250374161A1Multi-path processing method and apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.12.04 1FINITY INC
  • US20250374161A1 patent drawing
  • US20250374161A1 patent drawing
  • US20250374161A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-path processing apparatus, configured in a remote terminal equipment, includes: a receiver configured to receive indication information transmitted by a network device; and a transmitter configured to transmit data by using a direct path or an indirect path in the multi-path according to the indication information, wherein the indication information comprises a first threshold related to a data amount of a PDCP (packet data convergence protocol) layer.