Wireless Rate Models for Dynamic Frequency Band Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems lack flexibility in frequency band usage, leading to rate plans that do not match subscriber needs, as frequency bands are either unavailable when needed or mandated unnecessarily, affecting user experience and network performance.

Innovation Solution

The development of wireless rate models that allow users to select and pay for specific frequency bands based on their usage patterns, utilizing combinations of LTE, Sub-6 GHz, and mmWave bands, enabling dynamic resource allocation and pricing adjustments based on network conditions and user requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single unified rate plan is used for all frequency bands, then implementation complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different subscriber needs and network conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverate plan structureVSAvoidfrequency band selection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the unified rate plan into multiple frequency band-specific rate plans (e.g., LTE-only, Sub-6 GHz, mmWave, and combination plans). Each rate plan is associated with specific frequency bands and has customized pricing structures, allowing subscribers to select plans that match their preferred frequency bands and usage patterns. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining simplicity within each segment while providing versatility across multiple segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic rate plan selection where subscribers can choose different rate plans based on their real-time needs, location, and network conditions. The system dynamically assigns rate plans to subscribers based on their selected frequency bands, enabling flexibility without increasing overall system complexity through standardized selection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If all frequency bands are made available to all subscribers, then service coverage and reliability are improved, but resource allocation efficiency and cost optimization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice availabilityVSAvoidnetwork resource allocation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing different rate plan configurations to different subscribers based on their specific needs and preferences. Each frequency band has customized rate plans with specific pricing structures, data allowances, and service priorities tailored to the characteristics of that band (e.g., mmWave for high-speed data, LTE for voice services). This ensures that each subscriber receives optimized service for their local needs while maintaining overall network efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes key parameters of the rate plans including data allowances, pricing structures, and service priorities based on the specific frequency band characteristics. Each frequency band has customized parameters that optimize resource allocation for that band's capabilities (e.g., higher data allowances for mmWave, voice-focused parameters for LTE), thereby improving both service reliability and resource allocation efficiency simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If frequency bands are mandated for all subscribers, then network coverage is ensured, but subscriber choice and customization options are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork coverageVSAvoidsubscriber control over frequency band selection
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal rate plan framework that works across all frequency bands while allowing individual customization. The standardized rate plan structure provides universal coverage and service guarantees, while subscribers can select specific frequency band combinations and customize their plans according to their preferences. This multi-functional approach ensures network coverage reliability while maintaining subscriber control and choice.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If flexible frequency band selection is allowed, then subscriber satisfaction and network efficiency are improved, but rate plan complexity and pricing structure complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork efficiencyVSAvoidrate plan structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex rate plan structure into manageable frequency band-specific components (LTE, Sub-6 GHz, mmWave, and their combinations). Each segment has standardized pricing structures and service parameters, making the overall complex system easier to manage and implement while still providing flexible frequency band selection for optimized network efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11051142B2Using wireless rate models based on utilized frequency resources
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US11051142B2 patent drawing
  • US11051142B2 patent drawing
  • US11051142B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Usage rates for user equipments (UEs) in a peer to peer wireless network are disclosed. For instance, a network device communicates via a first wireless connection with the network device, wherein the first wireless connection employs a first frequency band, and wherein the first frequency band corresponds to a first rate model. Then, a request is received to change the first frequency band to a second frequency band. A second wireless connection is established with the network device, wherein the second wireless connection employs the second frequency band, and wherein the second frequency band corresponds to a second rate model different than the first rate model.