Shortening VoLTE RTP Bearer Paths via Direct Tunnels
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Solution Overview
Problem
In communication systems, particularly LTE networks, the existing methods for managing VoLTE calls result in longer delay and increased network resource usage due to the length of RTP bearer paths, even when mobile devices are close to each other, leading to inefficient resource allocation and user experience issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that identify a nearest network element communicatively coupled to both mobile devices to activate a bridging bearer path, creating a direct tunnel and shortening the RTP bearer path, thereby reducing the number of required network elements and improving resource efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the existing VoLTE call management method is used, then the network can establish a bearer path for VoLTE calls, but the RTP bearer path becomes too long causing increased latency and network resource usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional long RTP bearer path into two separate paths: a signaling bearer path that remains long for network control, and a media bearer path that is shortened by creating a direct tunnel between eNodeBs. This segmentation allows the media path to be optimized for latency while the signaling path maintains network management capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a direct tunnel as an intermediary mechanism between the source eNodeB and destination eNodeB, allowing media traffic to bypass the traditional long path through the core network. This direct tunnel acts as a mediator that enables efficient media transmission while the existing core network elements continue to handle signaling and control functions.
2Productivity
If the existing VoLTE call management method is used, then the network can route calls through standard elements, but network resource usage increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the media transmission function from the traditional long bearer path and places it in a separate direct tunnel between eNodeBs. This extraction allows media traffic to be routed independently through the most efficient path, while other network resources are freed for other functions, thereby improving overall network resource efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic bearer path selection where the network can switch between traditional routing and direct tunneling based on real-time conditions. The system dynamically adjusts the media bearer path to use direct tunnels when available and appropriate, optimizing resource usage based on current network state and call requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, identifying, by a network device comprising a processor, a bearer path through a communication network for carrying internet protocol packets associated with a calling session between a first mobile device and a second mobile device and activating, by the network device, a bridging bearer path at a nearest network element to generate a direct tunnel for carrying the internet protocol packets associated with the calling session and to modify the bearer path to a shortest bearer path, where the nearest network element comprises a network element that is communicatively coupled to both the first mobile device and the second mobile device and that is closest to the first mobile device and the second mobile device. Other embodiments are disclosed.