UE Band Switching for LOLO and LOHI Carrier Aggregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current smartphone form factors do not adequately facilitate the simultaneous use of multiple low-frequency (LO) bands, limiting the aggregation of 5G bands such as n71+n29, n26+n66+n70, and preventing optimal throughput and frequency utilization.
Innovation Solution
Implementing intelligent band switching in user equipment (UE) to dynamically measure signal strength and switch between LOLO (low-low band aggregation) and LOHI (low-high band aggregation) modes based on signal thresholds, allowing UE to release or aggregate bands as needed to maintain link quality and optimize spectrum use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple LO bands are aggregated simultaneously to increase data rates, then spectrum utilization and throughput are improved, but device form factor constraints prevent adequate implementation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic band aggregation where the UE can flexibly aggregate different combinations of LO and HI bands based on real-time signal conditions. The system transitions between single-band, dual-band LOLO, and LOHI modes dynamically, allowing optimal spectrum utilization without requiring permanent hardware for all possible band combinations, thus working within form factor constraints while maximizing data rates when conditions permit.
2Productivity
If LOLO mode is used to aggregate multiple LO bands, then spectrum utilization is enhanced, but signal strength requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the UE continuously monitors signal strength and quality metrics for each band. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently determines whether to maintain LOLO aggregation or switch to alternative configurations. When signal conditions deteriorate below thresholds, the system releases bands or switches modes to maintain reliable connectivity, thus balancing spectrum utilization with link quality requirements.
3Productivity
If intelligent band switching is implemented to optimize spectrum use, then data rates are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages complexity by focusing on changing key operational parameters such as band aggregation mode (single, LOLO, LOHI), aggregation level (number of bands), and mode selection based on signal strength thresholds. Rather than implementing complex algorithms for all possible configurations, the system uses parameter-based decision-making with predefined thresholds and rules, simplifying the intelligence required while still achieving optimal data rates through dynamic adaptation to changing radio conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Intelligent band switching is disclosed. “LO” bands are those with frequencies of less than one gigahertz (GHz) and “HI” bands are those with frequencies of approximately 1.7 GHz or more. Two or more LO bands may be aggregated (“LOLO”) when the signal strength received by user equipment (UE) is above a minimum signal strength threshold, for example. A LO band and a HI band may be aggregated (“LOHI”) when the signal strength received by the UE is below the minimum signal strength threshold. The UE may prefer to use LOLO based on a policy, and switching from LOLO to LOHI, and vice versa, is based on the comparison of the received signal strength to the minimum signal strength threshold. Three, four, or more LO bands may be aggregated if the resultant drop in signal strength is still above the minimum signal strength threshold, for instance.