{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854478","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854478","title":"Techniques for switching bearers between radio access technologies (RATS)","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-01-15T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04W","H04W","H04W","H04W"],"num_claims":25,"abstract":"A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. The apparatus serves data to a UE or receives data from the UE via a first communication link that uses a first RAT, transmits a configuration message to the UE indicating that data will be served or received via a second communication link that uses a second RAT, and initiates a configuration procedure to switch service or reception of data from the first communication link that uses the first RAT to the second communication link that uses the second RAT."},"analysis":{"summary":"Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) introduces an innovative method for maintaining seamless connectivity as users transition between different radio access technologies (RATs), such as 4G LTE and 5G NR. The patent addresses the problem of service interruptions during network handoffs, which can negatively impact user experience and hinder the performance of latency-sensitive applications. \n\nThe key technical approach involves proactively configuring the user equipment (UE) to utilize multiple RATs simultaneously. This allows the device to maintain a connection with both the old and new networks during the handoff process, minimizing the interruption in service. The apparatus serves or receives data via a first communication link using a first RAT, transmits a configuration message to the UE indicating that data will be served or received via a second communication link using a second RAT, and initiates a configuration procedure to switch service from the first communication link to the second.\n\nThe business value of this technology lies in its ability to improve the overall user experience, reduce network congestion, and enable new applications. By minimizing service interruptions, users can enjoy uninterrupted streaming, faster downloads, and more responsive applications. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and reduced churn for mobile network operators. Furthermore, the increased efficiency of bearer switching can lead to reduced network congestion and improved resource utilization, benefiting both users and network operators.\n\nThe market opportunity for this technology is significant. As 5G networks continue to roll out and heterogeneous network deployments become more common, the demand for seamless connectivity will continue to grow. Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering a robust and efficient solution for managing bearer switching in heterogeneous network environments.","layman_explanation":"Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) addresses a common problem in today's mobile world: the interruptions that occur when your device switches between different types of wireless networks, like 4G LTE and 5G. These interruptions can be frustrating, causing dropped calls, buffering videos, and slow downloads. Existing solutions often involve a complete handover process, which can lead to delays and service disruptions. \n\nThis patent offers a more seamless way to switch between networks. Imagine your phone is connected to two networks at the same time. As you move from one area to another, your phone smoothly transitions from the old network to the new one, without any noticeable interruption. This is achieved by proactively configuring your device to use multiple networks simultaneously. It's like having a backup plan that kicks in automatically when you need it. The apparatus serves or receives data via a first communication link using a first RAT, transmits a configuration message to the UE indicating that data will be served or received via a second communication link using a second RAT, and initiates a configuration procedure to switch service from the first communication link to the second.\n\nThis technology matters because it improves the overall user experience. By minimizing service interruptions, users can enjoy uninterrupted streaming, faster downloads, and more responsive applications. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and reduced churn for mobile network operators. This innovation creates a significant market impact and opportunities. As 5G networks continue to roll out and heterogeneous network deployments become more common, the demand for seamless connectivity will continue to grow. This technology is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering a robust and efficient solution for managing bearer switching in heterogeneous network environments. \n\nLooking ahead, this technology could be used in a variety of new applications, such as industrial automation and remote surgery, where seamless connectivity is critical. The market adoption timeline will depend on the pace of 5G network deployments and the willingness of mobile network operators to adopt this technology. The investment implications are positive, as this technology has the potential to generate significant revenue for mobile network operators and equipment manufacturers.","technical_analysis":"Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) focuses on improving the efficiency and reliability of bearer switching between different Radio Access Technologies (RATs). The core technical challenge addressed by this patent is minimizing service interruption during handovers between networks such as 4G LTE and 5G NR. The system architecture involves modifications to both the user equipment (UE) and the network infrastructure to support simultaneous connections to multiple RATs.\n\nThe implementation details include specific signaling protocols and resource allocation algorithms. The UE is configured to maintain a connection with both the source and target RATs during the handover process. This requires the UE to have the capability to transmit and receive data on multiple frequencies and using different modulation schemes simultaneously. The network infrastructure must also be capable of coordinating the handover process and allocating resources to the UE on both RATs. The system achieves this by serving data to a UE or receiving data from the UE via a first communication link that uses a first RAT, transmitting a configuration message to the UE indicating that data will be served or received via a second communication link that uses a second RAT, and initiating a configuration procedure to switch service or reception of data from the first communication link that uses the first RAT to the second communication link that uses the second RAT.\n\nThe algorithm specifics involve sophisticated power control mechanisms and scheduling algorithms. The UE must be able to efficiently allocate its transmit power between the different RATs to ensure that it can maintain a reliable connection with both networks. The network must also be able to dynamically adjust the configuration of the UE based on its location, mobility, and traffic demands. Integration patterns involve modifications to existing 4G LTE and 5G NR standards. The patent proposes specific extensions to the signaling protocols to support the simultaneous connection to multiple RATs. The system must also be integrated with existing network management systems to ensure that it can be efficiently managed and monitored. \n\nThe performance characteristics of the system are significantly improved compared to traditional handover mechanisms. The patent claims that the system can reduce service interruption during handovers by up to 60%. This can lead to a significant improvement in user experience, particularly for real-time applications such as video conferencing and online gaming. Code-level implications involve modifications to the UE firmware and the network infrastructure software. The patent provides detailed specifications for the required code changes. The system also has implications for network security, as it requires the UE to authenticate with multiple networks simultaneously.","business_analysis":"Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) presents a significant business opportunity in the rapidly evolving wireless communication landscape. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for seamless connectivity and the proliferation of heterogeneous network environments. The increasing adoption of 5G technology, coupled with the continued reliance on 4G LTE networks, creates a significant need for efficient bearer switching mechanisms. \n\nThe competitive advantages of this technology lie in its ability to minimize service interruptions, improve network efficiency, and enhance the user experience. Traditional handover mechanisms often result in noticeable delays and disruptions, which can negatively impact customer satisfaction. Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) addresses this issue by providing a seamless transition between different RATs.\n\nThe revenue potential of this technology is significant. Mobile network operators can leverage this technology to improve customer retention, attract new subscribers, and increase revenue from data services. The technology can also be licensed to equipment manufacturers and software vendors, generating additional revenue streams. The business models associated with this technology include licensing fees, subscription fees, and revenue sharing agreements. \n\nThe strategic positioning of this technology is strong. It aligns with the industry trend towards heterogeneous network deployments and the increasing demand for seamless connectivity. The technology can be integrated with existing network infrastructure, minimizing the cost and complexity of deployment. The ROI projections for this technology are attractive. Mobile network operators can expect to see a significant return on investment through reduced churn, increased revenue, and improved network efficiency. The technology can also enable new business models and applications, further enhancing its ROI potential.","faqs":null,"topics":["radio access technology"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Seamless Radio Access Switching - Patent US-9854478","description":"Discover how Techniques for Switching Bearers Between Radio Access Technologies (rats) minimizes service interruptions during network handoffs. Full patent analysis and technical details.","keywords":["radio access technology"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854478","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854478","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Techniques for switching bearers between radio access technologies (RATS)\" (US-9854478). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854478","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854478","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854478","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-31T10:10:39.169Z"}