VoLTE Codec Inference Using SID-Based Header Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing eNBs struggle to accurately determine the audio codec used by user equipment during a VoLTE session due to dynamic packet sizes and network headers, making it difficult to make informed decisions about codec changes and resource allocation.

Innovation Solution

The method involves using the Silence Insertion Descriptor (SID) to calculate the VoLTE packet header size by inspecting downlink packet sizes, setting factors, and subtracting the header overhead to determine the codec.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the eNB allocates downlink resources based on VOLTE packet sizes, then resource allocation can be performed, but the codec cannot be accurately determined due to variable packet sizes and network headers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecodec determination accuracyVSAvoidpacket inspection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the VOLTE packet into distinct components: network headers (UDP, IP, RTP) and the actual voice codec payload. By separating these elements and independently analyzing their size characteristics, the system can subtract the known header overhead from the total packet size to accurately determine the codec type, thereby resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary analysis layer that inspects packet size patterns and uses Silence Insertion Descriptor (SID) packets as reference points. This intermediary process acts as a mediator between the raw packet data and the codec determination, enabling accurate codec identification without requiring complex deep packet inspection of every packet

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the eNB makes codec change decisions without accurate codec information, then resource allocation continues, but informed decisions on codec changes cannot be made

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecodec change decision capabilityVSAvoidcodec information availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the eNB continuously monitors downlink packet sizes, compares them against known codec characteristics, and uses this information to make informed codec change decisions. The SID packets provide reference feedback points that help maintain accurate codec information, enabling the system to adaptively adjust codecs based on actual usage rather than assumptions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary analysis of packet size patterns and header structures before making codec determination decisions. By pre-establishing the relationship between packet size components and codec types, and using SID packets as preliminary reference points, the system prepares the necessary codec information in advance, enabling timely and informed codec change decisions without information loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20260019871A1Dynamic VoLTE Allocation (DVA)
Publication Date: 2026.01.15 PARALLEL WIRELESS INC
  • US20260019871A1 patent drawing
  • US20260019871A1 patent drawing
  • US20260019871A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, computer readable media and a system for determining a Voice over LTE (VOLTE) codec is presented. In one embodiment a method includes discovering a packet header size used in a session using a Silence Insertion Descriptor (SID); inspecting downlink packet sizes coming into a receive buffer; determining when three consecutive packet sizes are greater than zero, then setting a first factor, a second factor, and a third factor equal to zero; calculating a header size; and determining a voice encoding codec by subtracting a header overhead value from the packet size.