Reverse Link Data Rate Selection Based on Network Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
In cellular wireless networks, access terminals often start new data transmissions at a minimum reverse-link data rate, leading to unnecessarily decreased overall transmission rates, especially when the RF conditions remain static and the terminal has not moved.
Innovation Solution
Access terminals monitor the loading on the reverse link and adjust their data rate based on the loading conditions, selecting a higher data rate when the link is lightly loaded and remaining at a lower rate when heavily loaded, rather than starting at the minimum rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the access terminal automatically begins transmitting new data at a minimum available reverse-link data rate, then the transmission process is simple and reliable, but the overall reverse-link transmission data rate is unnecessarily decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the data rate adjustable rather than fixed. The access terminal dynamically selects the initial data rate based on current reverse-link loading conditions, transitioning from a static minimum rate approach to a dynamic rate selection approach that adapts to network conditions while maintaining transmission reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of initial data rate selection from a fixed minimum value to a variable value that depends on reverse-link loading conditions. By monitoring loading indications and adjusting the initial data rate accordingly, the system optimizes transmission efficiency without compromising reliability.
2Productivity
If the access terminal starts at a higher data rate when the reverse link is lightly loaded, then the transmission efficiency improves, but the risk of transmission failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the access terminal monitors reverse-link loading indications from the access network and adjusts its data rate selection accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that higher rates are selected only when conditions permit, maintaining both efficiency and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the access terminal monitor and assess reverse-link loading conditions before initiating data transmission. This preliminary assessment allows the terminal to pre-select an appropriate initial data rate that balances efficiency and reliability based on current network conditions.
3Productivity
If the access terminal continuously monitors and adjusts its data rate based on loading conditions, then the overall transmission rate is optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the access terminal to autonomously monitor its own transmission conditions and automatically adjust its data rate without external intervention. The terminal uses loading indications received from the access network to self-regulate its transmission parameters, optimizing performance while managing complexity through automated decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
An access terminal in a coverage area of an access network may be monitoring a level of loading on the coverage area's reverse link, such as by monitoring a series of reverse activity bits sent by the access network. The access terminal may then detect new data for transmission to the access network and responsively select a reverse-link data rate based on the monitored level of loading. In this respect, the access terminal may select (a) a first data rate (e.g., a reverse-link data rate at which the access terminal last transmitted data) if the access terminal detects a low load, and (b) a second data rate (e.g., a minimum available reverse-link data rate) if the access terminal detects a high load, where the second data rate is lower than the first data rate. The access terminal may also consider its location in selecting the reverse-link data rate.