Content and RAN aware network selection in multiple wireless access and small-cell overlay wireless access networks

摘要

Methods for steering the access technology selection by a mobile device in an overlay Small-Cell and Macro Network, such as UMTS, LTE, CDMA, or WIFI are disclosed. This selection determination is based on the observed, real-time correlated and estimated network congestion, content-awareness, application/service expectations, and other criteria. Methods and procedures to influence network selection or control currently selected networks by propagating real-time correlated and consolidated information on a plurality of Radio Access Technologies to Access Points, or modifying the list of alternative Radio Access Technologies available at a location using standards defined mechanisms and parameters are identified. Additionally, steering content access and delivery through alternative access technologies, based on anticipated network usage by user's service activation, and the knowledge of the type, state and resource usage of a plurality of access networks when a mobile device connects to multiple access technologies through in-band or out-of-band mechanisms is identified.

主权项

1. A RAN Transit network device (RIND) for use in a Radio Access Network (RAN), said RAN comprising a plurality of devices, each having one or more interfaces connecting it to an adjacent device, comprising:
an interface module to receive communications from one or more of said interfaces in said RAN, wherein said communications comprises control plane and user plane information; a communications module to export information to one of said plurality of devices; a processing unit; and a storage element, said storage element comprising instructions adapted to:
interpret said control plane and user plane information received from said interface module;determine one or more network and user performance metrics based on said interpreted control plane and user plane information;identify an appropriate network for use by a specific user device based on said determined performance metrics; andinfluence said specific user device to utilize said appropriate network.