TETRA-LTE Gateway Protocol Transposition for Direct Interconnection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for connecting TETRA networks with 3rd or 4th generation radio networks, such as those based on 3GPP LTE technology, require complete terminal fleet changes, high-level service gateways, and do not allow direct links between LTE and TETRA radio terminals, limiting mobility and spectrum optimization.

Innovation Solution

A method that integrates a transposition layer into the protocol stack of narrow-band TETRA networks, enabling IP connections to broadband 3GPP EPS and LTE networks, with standardized interfaces like S1, X2, and M1, allowing direct communication and reuse of radio frequency channels, while ensuring mobility and economical optimization across different network environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If TETRA networks are connected to 3rd or 4th generation radio networks using existing methods, then network interconnection is achieved, but terminal fleet must be completely changed and high-level service gateways are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork interconnection capabilityVSAvoidterminal fleet complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a gateway device as an intermediary between TETRA and LTE networks. This gateway implements protocol translation and mapping functions, allowing TETRA terminals to communicate over LTE infrastructure without requiring terminal modification. The gateway acts as a mediator that handles the complexity of inter-network communication while keeping terminal devices simple and unchanged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the network integration function into separate components: the TETRA radio access network, the LTE transport network, and the gateway device. This segmentation allows each component to operate independently with its own optimized protocols, while the gateway handles the interface complexity. The control plane and user plane are also segmented and handled separately through different protocol mappings.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If TETRA networks are connected to 3rd or 4th generation radio networks using existing methods, then network interconnection is achieved, but direct links between LTE and TETRA radio terminals are not allowed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork interconnection capabilityVSAvoidterminal communication capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The gateway device serves as an intermediary that enables direct communication between TETRA and LTE terminals. It translates TETRA signaling protocols into LTE-compatible protocols, allowing terminals to communicate directly without requiring complex multi-hop routing through multiple gateways or network layers. The gateway handles protocol conversion transparently, making direct links possible.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If TETRA networks are connected to 3rd or 4th generation radio networks using existing methods, then network interconnection is achieved, but mobility management is not ensured

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork interconnection capabilityVSAvoidmobility management

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The gateway device implements universal mobility management functions that work across both TETRA and LTE networks. It maintains subscriber profiles, handles handover decisions, and manages session continuity regardless of which network the terminal is currently accessing. This multi-functional approach ensures consistent mobility management whether terminals are on TETRA, LTE, or moving between networks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If TETRA networks are connected to 3rd or 4th generation radio networks using existing methods, then network interconnection is achieved, but spectrum optimization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork interconnection capabilityVSAvoidspectrum efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The gateway enables universal access to LTE spectrum resources for TETRA terminals. Instead of being confined to dedicated TETRA frequency bands, terminals can dynamically access LTE spectrum through the gateway, optimizing spectrum utilization. The gateway manages resource allocation and radio bearer mapping to efficiently use available spectrum in both networks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2741560B9Method for integrating a base station or management switch, and devices implementing such a method

Publication Date: 2016.12.21 MINOT PIERRE

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AI summary

Method for connecting a first device belonging to a first narrowband mobile communication network to a second broadband mobile communication network, said device implementing a protocol layer to communicate with a first plurality of mobile terminals according to a first mobile communication standard, characterized in that it comprises a modification of said first device by integration of a transposition layer into said protocol layer and is connected to said second broadband communication network via an "Internet Protocol" (IP) type link.