eNB-Assisted VoLTE Codec Rate Negotiation

The patent implements dynamic codec rate adaptation where the base station and UE negotiate and adjust codec rates in real-time based on current radio conditions and network capacity. The system transitions from static codec rate selection to dynamic adjustment, allowing the codec rate to be optimized continuously according to changing conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining high voice quality and conserving network capacity.

The patent changes the operational parameter of codec rate from a fixed value to a dynamically adjustable parameter. By introducing application layer signaling that enables negotiation and adaptation of codec rates based on radio conditions and network capacity, the system can select appropriate codec rates (e.g., switching between higher rates for good conditions and lower rates for poor conditions), thereby optimizing the balance between voice quality and network capacity consumption.

The patent extends the existing application layer signaling mechanism, which is already used for other purposes in VoLTE communications, to also carry codec rate negotiation and adaptation information. By making the signaling mechanism multi-functional, the patent avoids creating entirely new signaling protocols and procedures, thereby improving user experience through codec adaptation while minimizing the increase in signaling complexity.

The patent enables the base station and UE to autonomously negotiate and adapt codec rates through application layer signaling without requiring complex centralized control or additional network infrastructure. The entities themselves perform the adaptation function using existing signaling capabilities, reducing the need for additional complex signaling mechanisms while still achieving improved user experience.