KR20070017544A - Method and apparatus for controlling transmission of broadcast-multicast service in packet data communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

The communication system 100 provides one or more of congestion information and subscriber information to the broadcast application server 22 when the server receives a request to start a broadcast-multicast service within the coverage area 109. . By providing the server with one or more of congestion information and subscriber information, the server is required to transmit to the communicable area via the service base station 110 a number of broadcast-multicast flows currently being transmitted to the communicable area. Make a known intelligent decision about blocking, unblocking, downgrading or upgrading one of the broadcast-multicast flows and / or the new broadcast-to broadcast-multicast flows transmitted to the coverage area. Known intelligent decisions can be made regarding whether to add multicast flows.

Broadcast-Multicast Flow, Blocking, Unblocking, Downgrading, Upgrading

Description

Method and apparatus for regulating a delivery of a broadcast-multicast service in a packet data communication system

This application claims the priority of Provisional Application No. 60 / 576,319, filed June 2, 2004, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Regulating Transmission of Multimedia Broadcast-Multicast Service in Packet Data Communication System", This application is incorporated herein by reference.

The present invention generally relates to the transmission of a Broadcast-Multicast Service (BCMCS) or a Multimedia Broadcast / Multicast Service (MBMS) in a packet data communication system, particularly a packet data communication system. It is about.

The Third Generation Partnership Project Two (3GPP2) standard provides a compatibility standard for cellular mobile telecommunication systems. The 3GPP2 standard is manufactured in accordance with standards by a mobile station (MS) or an access terminal (AT) (hereinafter collectively referred to as MS) operating in a cdma2000 (code division multiple access 2000) communication system (e.g., 1X system or DO system). Ensures that communication services can be obtained when operating on an established system. To ensure compatibility, wireless system parameters and data transmission procedures are specified by standards including protocols for managing bearer traffic and digital control messages exchanged over the air interface.

The 3GPP2 standards are provided in the X.P0022, A.S00019 and S.R0083 specifications for sending broadcast-multicast service (BCMCS) by cdma2000 communication system to MSs serviced and subscribed to by the system. For example, the BCMCS can transmit broadcast-multicast flows of audio, video and / or data associated with multimedia programs such as cable news network (CNN) newscasts or home box office (HBO) shows. When the MS is activated in a communication system that provides BCMCS, the MS instructs the communication system and in particular the BCMCS controller to intentionally receive multicast data associated with the BCMCS flow for one or more broadcast-multicast flows associated with the BCMCS. You can request access. By registering BCMCS and especially broadcast-multicast flows, the MS associates a broadcast / multicast group associated with these flows.

In response to receiving an access request from the MS during the broadcast-multicast flow, the BCMCS controller is responsible for the flow, i.e. multiple identifiers (BCMCS_FLOW_ID and BAK_ID) associated with the particular program, such as a CNN or HBO subscribed by the MS. Sends an encryption key (EncrBAK) used to encrypt the audio, video and / or data associated with the MS. When the BCMCS controller receives the BCMCS data associated with the flow, the BCMCS controller sends data through the base station (BS) or access network (AN) (hereinafter collectively referred to as BS) where the data is encrypted using the EncrBAK key and serves the MS. Can be broadcast. Each subscribed MS can use the provided key to decrypt broadcast audio, video and / or data and display the audio, video and / or data to the user of the MS. When the MS subscribes to multiple BCMCS flows, the MS is provided with a flow ID and encryption key associated with each of these flows. The user of the MS can then choose at any time which of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows the broadcast-multicast flow is decrypted to listen to or monitor.

Currently, the 3GPP2 standards do not adjust the quantity or quality of broadcast-multicast flows that are sent to the BS by the BCMCS controller and subscribed to the MSs served for the BS. That is, when providing broadcast-multicast flows associated with broadcast-multicast services to the BS, the BCMCS controller subscribes by all MSs served by the BS regardless of the bandwidth or channel conditions available at the BS. It may be necessary to provide all the flows that have been specified. Unregulated transmission of these flows can cause congestion at the BS because of the lack of available bandwidth for the broadcast of all received flows. As a result, the BS may optionally block some of the received flows and / or optionally reduce the quality of service (QoS) of one or more concurrently received flows. Moreover, the BS subscribes to these one or more flows and does not know the subscription information associated with each MS serviced by the BS. For example, when an MS subscribes to a BCMCS, it can be understood that the MS can, for example, specify a particular QoS for the service in a gold, silver or bronze plan or that a particular BCMCS can be provided with a predetermined QoS. When the BS arbitrarily blocks received flows or arbitrarily reduces QoS, the BS will block broadcast-multicast flows subscribed by multiple subscribers while broadcasting broadcast-multicast flows with a small number of subscribers. QoS may be reduced to a lower level, which may or may not be allowed. The result is frustrating subscribers and upset system operators.

Therefore, a need exists for a method and apparatus for coordinating the transmission of BCMCS by a BCMCS controller to a BS.

1 is a block diagram of a wireless toe-in system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a block diagram of the mobile station of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

3 is a logical flow diagram illustrating how the communication system of FIG. 1 regulates transmission of a broadcast-multicast service in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

4 is a logical flow diagram illustrating how the communication system of FIG. 1 regulates transmission of a broadcast-multicast service according to another embodiment of the present invention.

5 is a logical flow diagram illustrating how the communication system of FIG. 1 regulates transmission of a broadcast-multicast service in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In order to meet the need for a method and apparatus for coordinating the provision of broadcast-multicast services (BCMCS) to a base station (BS) by a BCMCS controller, a communication system is provided in which a server broadcasts within a coverage area. When receiving a request to start a multicast service, the broadcast application server provides one or more of congestion information and subscriber information. By providing one or more of the congestion information and the subscriber information to the server, the server is capable of transmitting one of a number of broadcast-multicast flows required for transmission to the coverage area through the service base station or currently transmitted to the coverage area. Knowing intelligent decisions about blocking, unblocking, downgrading, or upgrading broadcast-multicast flows and / or adding new broadcast-multicast flows to broadcast-multicast flows sent to the coverage area. Known intelligent decisions about whether can be made.

In general, embodiments of the present invention include a method for providing a broadcast-multicast service. The method includes receiving at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows in a coverage area of the same base station, and receiving information regarding congestion in the coverage area. do. The method includes blocking the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, based on the received congestion information. Unblocking the multicast flow, downgrading the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, and broadcast-multicast of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows Determining one or more of upgrading the flow and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area.

In response to the decision to block the broadcast-multicast flow, the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow is blocked in the communicable area. In response to the decision to unblock the broadcast-multicast flow, the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow is unblocked in the communicable area. In response to the decision to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, downgrading is that the broadcast-multicast flow is downgraded before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the broadcast-multicast flow is upgraded before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to add a new broadcast-multicast flow, the new broadcast-multicast flow is added to the coverage area.

Another embodiment of the present invention includes a method for providing a broadcast-multicast service. The method includes receiving at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area of the same base station, and receiving preference information associated with the multiple broadcast-multicast flows. It includes a step. The method includes blocking the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, based on the received preference information. Unblocking the multicast flow, downgrading the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, and broadcast-multicast of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows Determining one or more of upgrading the flow and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area.

In response to the decision to block the broadcast-multicast flow, the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow is blocked in the communicable area. In response to the decision to unblock the broadcast-multicast flow, the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow is unblocked in the communicable area. In response to the decision to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the broadcast-multicast flow is downgraded before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the broadcast-multicast is upgraded before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the coverage area. In response to the decision to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, a new broadcast-multicast flow is added to the broadcast-multicast flows transmitted in the coverage area.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes a broadcast application server including a processor. The processor receives at least one request to start service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area of the same base station. The processor receives information regarding congestion in the communicable area. Based on the received congestion information, the processor blocks the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast-multi of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows. Unblocking the cast flow, downgrading the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, and broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows Determine one or more of upgrading and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area.

In response to determining to block the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor blocks the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to unblock the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor unblocks the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor downgrades the broadcast-multicast flow prior to the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor upgrades the broadcast-multicast flow prior to the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area.

Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes a broadcast application server including a processor. The processor receives at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area of the same base station. The processor receives preference information associated with multiple broadcast-multicast flows. Based on the received preference information, the processor blocks the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast-multicast of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows. Unblocking the flow, downgrading the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, and removing the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows. Upgrading or unblocking one of the multiple broadcast-multicast flows and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the coverage area. Determine one or more.

In response to determining to block the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor blocks the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to unblock the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor unblocks the transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor downgrades the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area. In response to the decision to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the processor upgrades the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area.

The invention may be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1-5. 1 is a block diagram of a wireless communication system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Communication system 100 includes at least one base station (BS), access network (AN), or radio access network (RAN) (hereinafter collectively referred to as BS) 110. BS 110 operates on at least one transceiver 112, such as a base transceiver station (BTS), a base station controller (BSC), a radio network controller (RNC), or a network controller 114, such as a packet control function (PCF). Possibly including a connected access point (AP) or node (B). BS 110 is a mobile station (MS), access terminals (AT) or user equipments (UE) located in a communicable area 10, such as a cell or sector, serviced by the BS via air interface 106. Providing communication services to mobile communication devices, such as: The air interface 106 includes a downlink 107 and an uplink 108 that each include a plurality of radio frequency (RF) resources, namely RF communication channels. The downlink 107 includes a paging channel, at least one downlink pilot channel, at least one downlink control channel and at least one downlink bearer channel. Uplink 108 includes an uplink access channel and at least one uplink control channel. In general, when not associated with a broadcast, the uplink further includes at least one uplink bearer channel.

The communication system 100 resides within a plurality of mobile stations (MS), access terminals (AT), or a communicable area 109 of the BS 110 and is serviced by a BS 102-104. ) (Three shown) (hereinafter collectively referred to as MSs). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that each MS 102, 104 provides an RF interface to a digital terminal equipment (DTE) such as a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA) with radio frequency (RF) capabilities, a laptop computer. It may be part of a modem (but not limited to). Each MS 102-104 may receive and display audio, video, and / or data associated with the broadcast-multicast service provided by the communication system 100, and the service subscribes to the broadcast-multicast service. Broadcast-multicast service data to distributed MSs.

The communication system 100 may include a packet data service node (PDSN) operably connected to the BS 110 and / or a gateway such as a broadcast service node (BSN) or a service GPRS support node (SGSN) and a gateway GPRS support node. 116, a broadcast-multicast service (BCMCS) controller in communication with the network controller 114 and / or other servers such as a BCMCS content server or a broadcast multicast service center (BM-SC) and a user support server. And a subscriber profile database 128 operatively connected to the same broadcast application server 122 and each of the broadcast application server and gateway. In various embodiments of the present invention, subscriber profile database 128 may include authentication, authorization, account entity (AAA) (not shown), home location register (HLR) (not shown), or home subscriber server (HSS) (shown). Not distributed), or may be distributed between them, or may be separate entities from them. Each of BS 110, gateway 116, broadcast application server 122, and subscriber profile database 128 includes the network components of wireless network 132.

The communication system 100 further includes a number of broadcast-multicast (BM) content providers 136, 138 (two are shown). Each BM content provider 136, 138 is connected to a wireless network 132, in particular a server 122, via a data network 134. As part of a broadcast-multicast service provided by the communication system 100 and capable of subscribing by each MS 102-104, each BM content provider 136, 138 is a server 122, a gateway. Send broadcast-multicast service data to subscribed MSs, such as MSs 102-104, via 116 and BS 110.

The communication system 100 provides a broadcast-multicast service that can send multiple broadcast-multicast flows to MSs 102-104 subscribed to the service. For example, a broadcast-multicast flow may be used to broadcast audio, video and / or data associated with multimedia programs such as cable news network (CNN) newscasts, home box office (HBO) shows or sports events such as soccer or baseball games. It may include. Preferably, communication system 100 is a code division multiple access (CDMA) 2000 communication system operating in accordance with 3GPP2 (3rd Generation Partnership Project 2) standards. The 3GPP2 standards provide a compatibility standard for CDMA 2000 air interfaces (1X and DO), and provide the wireless system parameters, call processing procedures, and broadcast-multicast service, namely the broadcast-multicast service (BCMCS). Specifies wireless telecommunications system operating protocols including providing. BCMCSs are described in detail in the 3GPP2 (3rd Generation Partnership Project 2) X.P0022, A.S00019, C.S0054, and SR0083 specifications, which are incorporated herein by reference, copies of which are incorporated from 3GPP2 via the Internet Or from the 3GPP2 Secretariat with a management office located at 22201 Arlington Suite 300 Wilson Boulevard, Virginia, USA.

In other embodiments of the present invention, communication system 100 may be a GPRS communication system or a Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS) operating in accordance with 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) standards. The 3GPP standards define wireless telecommunication system operating protocols and are broadcast-multicast services, namely multimedia broadcast / multicast, in 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) TS (Technical Specifications) 23.246, TS 22.146, TS25.346 and TS 29.846. It specifies the transmission of a service (MBMS), which specifications are incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment of the present invention, communication system 100 may be any other radio such as, but not limited to, a time division multiple access (TDMA) communication system, or an orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDM) communication system. It can operate according to the communication system.

1 and 2, each of MSs 102-104, gateway 116 and server 122 may include one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), combinations thereof, or those skilled in the art. Each of the processors 206, 118, 124, such as other devices known to the art. Each MS 102-104, gateway 116, and server 122 may be a MS gateway or server, such as a static or dynamically assigned identifier or a dynamic or statically assigned routing address, such as an Internet Protocol (IP) address. Random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and / or read-only memory that stores an identifier associated with the processor and other data and programs that may be executed by the processor and that cause the processor to operate in the communication system 100. And at least one memory device (208, 120, 126) associated with each processor, such as a ROM) or equivalent thereof.

At least one memory device 126 of server 122 may include one or more identifiers associated with each broadcast-multicast flow provided by the server, such as the flow identifier BCMCS_FLOW_ID and the broadcast access key identifier associated with the flow ( BAK_ID), and an encryption key used to encrypt data associated with the broadcast-multicast flow, such as EncrBAK. Moreover, at least one memory device 126 of server 122 may include service transmission parameters of the broadcast-multicast flow, such as the recommended data rate or bandwidth with respect to each broadcast-multicast flow provided by the server. Recommended quality of service (QoS), class of service associated with the flow, an indication of whether the flow can be a premium (high or excess subscription fee) flow, and BSs such as gateway 116, BS 110, and And / or maintain a list of MSs, such as MSs 102-104 subscribed to the broadcast-multicast flow.

In various embodiments of the present invention, at least one memory device 208 of each MS 102-104 may be removed by a permanent memory device removed from the MS by a service technician, and / or by the user of the MS. Removable memory device, such as a memory stick, subscriber identifier module (SIM), or user identifier module (UIM). Each MS 102-104 includes a receiver 202 and a transmitter 204 operably connected to the processor 206 and receiving and sending messages by the MS. Unless otherwise specified herein, all of the functions described as performed herein by the MS 102-104, the gateway 116, or the server 122 are performed by the respective processor 206 of the MS, gateway, and server. 118, 124).

The subscriber profile database 128 maintains a mobile identifier (mobile ID) associated with each MS, such as the MS 102 that subscribes to the services of the communication system 100, and when the MS activates in the communication system 100. Maintain and track provisioning and mobility information associated with each MS, including registration of the MS. The subscriber profile database 128 maintains a subscriber profile for the MS in relation to the mobile ID. The subscriber profile includes services such as broadcast-multicast service and specific broadcast-multicast flows transmitted by the communication system 100 and subscribed to the MS and the capabilities of the MS and the applications supported by the MS. do. Each subscriber profile maintains a subscription description for a flow, such as a price, which is the subscription fee of a flow subscribed by the subscriber with respect to each broadcast-multicast flow.

Each subscriber profile maintained in subscriber profile database 128 may further include any service plans subscribed by the user or service preferences provided by the user. For example, users of MS can join a Gold Plan, Silver Plan or Bronze Plan at an additional cost. Gold plan subscribers can guarantee higher QoS than guaranteed quality of service (QoS) for silver and bronze plan subscribers. Gold plans can be given higher preference than silver and bronze plan subscribers. For example, when bandwidth is limited, a gold plan subscriber may be assigned a bearer channel before the bearer channels are assigned to silver or bronze plan subscribers. Similarly, silver plan subscribers can be guaranteed higher QoS and preferences than bronze plan subscribers and bronze plan subscribers can be given higher QoS and preferences than non-plan subscribers.

With respect to any broadcast-multicast service subscribed by the user of each MS 102-104, the subscriber profile for the MS maintained in the subscriber profile database 128 is subscribed to by the MS, that is, the user of the MS. One or more of a listing of listed broadcast-multicast flows, a preference order of broadcast-multicast flows, such as a CNN's preference for an HBO, and QoS associated with one or more of the listed broadcast-multicast flows. The QoS may be a QoS recommended, desired, or subscribed to. The desired or subscribed QoS or bandwidth may correspond to the minimum QoS or bandwidth subscribed by the MS or the QoS or bandwidth associated with the gold, silver or bronze plan subscribed by the MS.

The subscriber profile associated with each MS 102-104 may be maintained at at least one memory device 208 of the MS. By maintaining the subscriber profile in the removable memory device, the subscriber for the broadcast-multicast service can send a list of subscribed services, preferences, and service plans for the MS that the subscriber uses simultaneously.

In order to receive broadcast-multicast flows associated with the broadcast-multicast service provided by communication system 100, a user of MS 102-104, such as MS 102, must subscribe to services and flows. . In one embodiment of the present invention, a user may pre-register for services and flows by signing a contract with an operator of system 100 to provide services and flows at an approved price, such as a subscription fee. The operator of the system 100 may then store this subscription information in the subscriber's profile maintained in the subscriber profile database 128 and assign the identifier associated with the flow to at least one memory device 208 of the user's MS. Can be stored. When the MS is activated in the communication system 100, the MS simultaneously subscribes to the broadcast-multicast flow by having a registration request sent to the broadcast application server 122 via the BS 100 and the gateway 116. Can be received. The registration request includes an identifier associated with the flow, thereby notifying the server 122 of the registered flow.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the user may subscribe to the broadcast-multicast service and the broadcast-multicast flow based on the ad hoc. In such an embodiment, the network 132 and in particular the broadcast application server 122 may send a service announcement or message of service availability that includes an identifier associated with the flow and information such as work, time, program title and price associated with the flow. The broadcast may inform the MS of the broadcast-multicast flow. In response to receiving the service announcement or message, the user of the MS sends a registration request via the gateway to a communication system, in particular gateway 116 or broadcast, indicating a willingness to receive broadcast-multicast service data associated with the flow. The subscription request may be subscribed to the broadcast-multicast flow by sending to the application server 122. Again, the registration request may include an identifier associated with the flow, thereby informing the server 122 of the registered flow.

In response to receiving a request to register a broadcast-multicast flow from an MS, such as MS 102, or a gateway, such as gateway 116, the broadcast application server 122 may request one or more memory devices 126 of the server. ), The identifier associated with the gateway, the serviced BS and / or the subscribing MS. The broadcast server 122 may retrieve the subscriber profile associated with the MS from the subscriber profile database 128 and set up an account system and account records, such as AAA (not shown), to charge the MS to provide services. have. Optionally, accounting may be performed at gateway 116.

Moreover, in response to receiving the registration request, the broadcast application server 122 may transmit one or more identifiers uniquely associated with the broadcast-multicast flow, such as a BCMCS flow identifier (BCMCS_FLOW_ID) and a broadcast access key associated with the BCMCS flow. The identifier (BAK_ID) is transmitted to the MS through the gateway serving the MS. Broadcast application server 122 may include data associated with the broadcast-multicast flow, such as the start time of the flow, compression algorithms such as decoding information such as MPEG4 used to compress the data, and encryption used to encrypt the data. Information can be sent to the MS that can be used by the MS to receive, decode and display the key or EncrBAK. By using the encryption key to encrypt and decrypt the broadcast-multicast flow, only subscribed MSs can receive, decrypt and decode the flow. When a user of an MS subscribes to multiple flows of a broadcast-multicast service, the MS distinguishes between broadcast-multicast flow identifiers, such as subscribed flows, and allows the user of the MS to select and listen to or monitor the flow. You can use the BCMCS_FLOW_ID associated with each flow. The MS can then use the associated encryption key, such as EncrBAK, to decrypt and display the flow through the MS's user interface 210 when the data is received in an encrypted format.

The broadcast application server 122 provides a central point for distributing multiple broadcast-multicast flows associated with the broadcast-multicast service provided by the communication system 100 to subscribed MSs. When the broadcast application server 122 receives data associated with the broadcast-multicast flow from the broadcast-multicast content providers 136 and 138, the broadcast application server receives a BS, i. Sends data to each subscribed MS, such as MSs 102-104, via 110, and the BS broadcasts or multiplexes the data over the bearer channel of the associated air interface downlink, i.e., downlink 107. Send data by casting. Before transmitting the data, the broadcast application server 122 may have the data encrypted using an encryption key such as EncrBAK distributed to subscribing MSs. Each subscribed MS can then decrypt the broadcast audio, video and / or data using the provided key and display the audio, video and / or data to the user of the MS via the user interface 210. Can be.

When multiple MSs 102-1-4_ served by BS 110 subscribe to multiple broadcast-multicast flows, the provision of each flow to each subscribed MS is associated with the BS. A congestion may occur at the air interface 106 of the coverage area 109. That is, the allocation of bearer channels to each broadcast-multicast flow of a plurality of broadcast-multicast flows may result in multiple broadcasts-. It may generate unacceptable interference levels for other broadcast-multicast flows of multicast flows, or may generate unacceptable interference levels for other users of the air interface 106. Furthermore. BS 110 is equal to the amount of bearer channel sufficient to generate all broadcast-multicast flows subscribed by MSs 102-104. Available bandwidth may be lacking or the channel conditions of the air interface 106 may be too poor to support the provision of all broadcast-multicast flows subscribed by the MSs. The system 100 provides the broadcast-multicast provided by the BS when the amount or quality of the broadcast-multicast services provided by the BS may be constrained by bandwidth restrictions or channel conditions or may congest the air interface. A method and apparatus for regulating flows and transmission of a broadcast-multicast service to subscribed MSs is provided.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a logic flow diagram 300 describes a method by which communication system 100 regulates the transmission of a broadcast-multicast service in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Logic flow diagram 300 illustrates a number of requests for communication system 100 and in particular BS 110 to start service for a number of broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area, that is, in communicable area 109 of BS. Receive Each request of the plurality of requests is associated with the MS of the plurality of MSs 102-104 serviced by the BS 110 and is one of a number of broadcast-multicast flows associated with the broadcast-multicast service. And indicate the MS's desire to receive the broadcast-multicast flow of the UE and include a flow identifier associated with the desired broadcast-multicast flow and a mobile ID associated with the MS. For example, each request may include a BCMCS registration message. For example, the MS may send a request when the MS is activated in the communication system 100 or handed off to the BS 110. As another example, the MS may send a request in response to receiving a message from the network 132 indicating the usefulness of the flow or a guide of the broadcast-multicast flow. When BS 110 receives a number of requests, the BS may provide in advance one or more of the requested broadcast-multicast flows or provide other broadcast-multicast flows to the MS in the communicable area 109. Can provide them.

In response to receiving each request to start the service, BS 110 transmits to the broadcast application server serving the BS, that is, broadcast application server 122, which broadcast service starts from the BS. A response request is received (304). In one embodiment of the present invention, the BS may send a request to start a service received by the BS. In another embodiment of the present invention, in response to receiving each request to start the service, the BS may assemble another request to start the service and send the assembled request to the broadcast application server 122. And the assembled request includes a flow identifier and a mobile ID included in the request received by the BS.

Moreover, in response to receiving each request to start the service, BS 110 transmits to broadcast application server 122, which broadcast application server receives from BS 306, and the availability of RF resources. Similarly, information about congestion at the BS may be stored in at least one memory device 126 of the server 308 or may transmit power at the BS and / or channel conditions at the BS. In one embodiment of the present invention, BS 110 may attach congestion information as an information component to a request for a service received by BS and may transmit the information with the request. In other embodiments of the invention, in response to receiving the service request, BS 110 may include congestion information in a request to start a service assembled by the BS, or may include congestion information. Individual messages may be assembled, and congestion information may be sent to the broadcast application server 122 in an assembled message or individual message to start a service.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, BS 110 makes RF resources, or communication channels available at the BS, and power allocated to each communication channel currently transmitted by the BS. Accordingly, BS 110 may generate congestion information, ie, information regarding RF resource availability and / or available or allocated transmission power, to broadcast application server 122. MSs serviced by the BS, such as MSs 102-104 serviced by BS 110, monitor the pilot channels transmitted by the BS and perform signal strength measurements or signal-to-signal in relation to the monitored pilot channels. Channel conditions can be monitored by determining signal quality metrics, such as noise ratios, and sending the determined signal quality metrics back to the BS when the uplink is established. BS 110 may send the received signal quality metrics to broadcast application server 122.

BS 110 may determine signal to noise ratios, bit error rates (BER) or frame error rates (FER) with respect to signals received from each MS 102-104 served by the BS when uplinks are available. It is possible to determine the channel conditions by itself by determining. For example, signal quality metrics are determined by the BS with respect to frames of data received from the MS in soft handoff operation. BS 110 may send the determined signal quality metrics to broadcast application server 12.

Transmission of congestion information, such as RF resource availability, power availability or channel condition information, by the BS 110 to the broadcast application server 122 may be once or periodically or intermittently. For example, BS 110 may send RF resource availability information to broadcast application server 122 whenever a new broadcast or multicast bearer channel is released or allocated or periodically sends updates of RF resource availability. As another example, MSs, such as MSs 102-104, report pilot channel measurements periodically or only report the measurements when they change from previous measurements by more than a predetermined amount or the measurements are below a predetermined threshold. The measurements can only be reported when decreasing to or rising above a predetermined threshold. BS 110 may send the measurements whenever the measurements execute an algorithm stored in controller 114 to determine whether to send the measurements. Multiple algorithms may be made by those skilled in the art to determine when BS 110 sends the measurements to broadcast application server 122. Such as storing received measurements and periodically sending the most recently received measurements from each received MS and sending periodically received measurements only when a predetermined number of measurements decreases below or rises above a threshold. Any one algorithm is designed by the designer of system 100 and is not critical to the invention.

Furthermore, the transmission of the congestion information may be performed by the BS 110 by the broadcast application server 122 in response to the BS determining the information described herein or requesting information from each MS 102-104. It can generate a request from the information sent to. In response to receiving the congestion information request from the BS, each MS may send the congestion information to the requesting BS as described herein.

Based on the congestion information received from the BS 110, the broadcast application server 122 is requested to provide to the coverage area 109 or a number of broadcasts currently being provided to the coverage area 109. Determine 310 whether to block or unblock the broadcast-multicast flow of the multicast flows. The broadcast application server 122 may additionally or selectively determine whether to downgrade or upgrade the transmission parameters for a number of requests or one of the currently provided broadcast-multicast flows. Furthermore, or alternatively again, the broadcast application server 122 adds the broadcast-multicast flow to the broadcast-multicast flows provided to the coverage area 109, that is, a new flow is broadcast in the coverage area. It may be determined 310 whether to request the broadcast-multicast content provider 136, 138 to be available below.

In one embodiment of the present invention, step 310 may include the following steps. The broadcast application server 122 may determine based on the received congestion information whether the transmission of all broadcast-multicast services requested by the MSs 102-104 causes congestion at the BS 110. . For example, broadcast application server 122 may determine whether BS 110 lacks sufficient bandwidth or sufficient unallocated power to transmit all requested broadcast-multicast services. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may have power required for transmitting all broadcast-multicast services requested by MSs 102-104 for each service or other at BS 110. It may be determined whether it causes an unacceptable level for ongoing communications. For example, the broadcast application server 122 may compare the signal quality metric threshold with each signal quality metric received from the BS 110 to perform the comparison. Based on the comparisons, such as the threshold and the amount of difference between each metric, the broadcast application server 122 determines that the transmission of all broadcast-multicast services requested by the MSs 102-104 and these metrics and / or the like. Or determine if it causes an unacceptable degradation of the comparisons.

In response to determining that all broadcast-multicast service examples requested by MSs 102-104 cause congestion at BS 110, broadcast application server 122 may request the requested number of broadcasts. Send fewer flows than cast-multicast flows, i.e., determine whether to block one or more of the requested or currently provided broadcast-multicast flows, or one or more of the requested or currently provided flows It may be determined to downgrade one or more of the requested or currently provided flows by adjusting the transmission parameters of or down or by adjusting the service class of one or more of the requested or currently provided flows. For example, broadcast application server 122 may determine to adjust the transmission parameters for one or more of the requested flows by sending one or more flows with reduced bandwidth or reduced QoS. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may determine to send one or more of the flows in another service class by delaying the broadcast of the live streaming service, such as by switching the service to a non-real-time background download.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the broadcast application server 12 may determine in step 310, where the BS 110 adds an upgraded version or addition of one or more requested or currently provided broadcast-multicast flows. Have received congestion information, RF resource availability, transmit power availability or channel conditions based on the congestion information received to support broadcast-multicast flows. For example, congestion information may indicate that sufficient bandwidth or power is available at BS 110 or channel conditions are sufficiently improved, such that the broadcast application server frees the currently blocked broadcast-multicast flow. Blocking or adjusting the transmission parameters of the requested or currently provided flows upward or requesting the broadcast-multicast content provider 136, 138 so that a new flow is available for broadcasting in the communicable area 109.

In response to determining to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade, or add the broadcast-multicast flow at BS 110, the broadcast application server 112 blocks, or unblocks, respectively. Select the broadcast-multicast flow to add, downgrade, upgrade or add. When selecting a broadcast-multicast flow to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade, or add, the broadcast application server 122 considers one or more of the priorities assigned to each of these flows. The flow may be selected by executing a class of algorithms, recommended bandwidths of the flow and / or QoS or service requirements of the flow. For example, considering a single factor, the broadcast application server 122 blocks the bandwidth or QoS for the service class of the few described MSs or the requested or currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flow with low priority. Can be decided or reduced or changed. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may determine to reduce the data rate of a high data rate flow, such as broadcasting the flow at an associated data rate of 64 kilobits per second (kbps) instead of a data rate of 32 kbps. have. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may provide bandwidth, QoS, and multiple bandwidths of multiple broadcast-multicast flows provided through BS 110 such that all requested and currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flows may be provided. Or you can decide to reduce the class of service. Optionally, if the broadcast application server determines that high bandwidth is available, the broadcast application server may increase or restore previous service levels.

In other embodiments of the present invention, when selecting a broadcast-multicast flow to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade or add, the algorithm executed by the broadcast application server 122 may be broadcast-based. At BS 110 of each broadcast-multicast flow, such as maximizing the number of MSs receiving the multicast flows, maximizing the number of provided flows, or maximizing the revenue generated by the provision of flows. Additional or optional considerations may be made of the operational objectives associated with the provision of the For example, when the broadcast application server 122 selects a broadcast-multicast flow to block or downgrade, the server may be a flow with a few subscribed MSs, a flow that is a non-premium flow, or a high data rate or high. You can select flows with QoS requirements. When the server selects a broadcast-multicast flow to unblock, upgrade, or add, the server may select a flow with multiple requesting MSs or a premium broadcast-multicast flow subscribed to the MSs or in bulk It is possible to select flows with a low data rate or low QoS so that flows of may be unblocked or added.

The broadcast application server 122 then blocks, unblocks, downgrades, upgrades, or adds 312 the selected broadcast-multicast flow. Then, the broadcast application server 122 then unblocks each of the plurality of requested or in-progress broadcast-multicast flows, including any downgraded or upgraded broadcast-multicast flows. Send a multicast flow to BS 110. BS 110 broadcasts broadcast-multicast flows received from broadcast application server 122 to subscribed MSs.

In other embodiments of the present invention, with the support of converged networks and next-generation networks, the broadcast is only blocked by blocking the broadcast-multicast flow to a destination and unblocking the broadcast-multicast flow to another destination. The application server may redirect from one network to another (same or different type) or from one device to another based on user preferences and congestion situations.

By providing congestion information to the broadcast application server 122 when the server receives a request to start a service, the server is responsible for blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast flows. Relevant intelligent decisions can be made. For example, broadcast application server 122 may block or reduce bandwidth or QoS, or may change the class of broadcast-multicast flows with a small number of subscribed MSs or low priority or high. It is possible to reduce the data rate of the data rate flow. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may reduce bandwidth or QoS, or multiple broadcast-provided through BS 110 such that all requested and currently transmitted broadcast flows may be provided. It is possible to change the service class of multicast flows. When the broadcast application server 122 determines that high bandwidth is available, the server may increase or restore previous service levels.

Moreover, when blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast flows, broadcast application server 122 maximizes the number of MSs that receive broadcast-multicast flows or One or more operational objectives associated with the provision at BS 110 of each broadcast-multicast flow may be optimized, such as to maximize the revenues generated by the provision. As a result, by having the broadcast application server 122 make known decisions, the overall efficiency of the communication system 100 is enhanced compared to the prior art, and subscriber complaints and disappointments associated with system performance and standard services are reduced, The goals of the operator of the communication system 100 may be implemented and executed.

4 shows a logical flow diagram 400 describing how communication system 100 regulates the provision of broadcast-multicast services by BS 110 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the logical flow diagram 300, the logical flow diagram 400 is similar to the step 304 with the BS 110 where the communication system 100 and in particular the broadcast application server 122 are serviced by the broadcast application server. Begin 402 when receiving a plurality of requests to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area, such as the communicable area 109 of the same BS. Similar to step 304, each request of the plurality of requests includes a mobile ID associated with the MS for which the start of the broadcast-multicast flow is requested and further includes an identifier associated with the requested broadcast-multicast flow. .

The broadcast application server 122 further receives 406 MS-related subscription information related to each received request. The broadcast application server may store the received MS-related subscription information in at least one memory device 126 of the server in association with the received mobile ID and the received broadcast-multicast flow identifier. In one embodiment of the present invention, an MS, such as MS 102, or a BS, such as BS 110, which sends a request to start a service, subscribes to the request, for example attaching subscription information as an information component to the request. You can insert information. For example, a request to start a service may be granted to a broadcast-multicast service associated with each requested broadcast-multicast service, a QoS associated with each requested broadcast-multicast service, and respective requested services. Priority and / or preference rank associated with each requested broadcast-multicast service. The order of preference is, for example, an absolute order of preference, such as a value between "10" (high) and "1" (low) assigned to broadcast-multicast, or a relative order of preference, such as prioritization of CNNs above HBO. Can be. The request to start the service containing the preference information is sent to the broadcast application server 122 via the gateway 116. In another embodiment of the present invention, BS 110 may send subscription information to broadcast application server 122 via gateway 116 in a message separate from the request to start the service.

In another embodiment of the invention, the broadcast application server 122 may receive subscription information by retrieving information from the network component. That is, in response to receiving each request and based on the mobile ID, the broadcast application server 122 may access the subscriber profile database 128 for information about broadcast-multicast services subscribed by the associated MS. You can ask questions. In response to the query, the subscriber profile database 128 may request a listing of broadcast-multicast service identifiers associated with the MS, a preference order of the broadcast-multicast services, a listed broadcast-multicast desired or subscribed by the user. Broadcast application server 122 provides one or more of QoS associated with one or more of the services, and any priority to be given to services subscribed to by the MS, such as an indication of a gold, silver, or bronze plan subscribed by the MS. Can be returned to The broadcast application server 122 stores subscription information received in association with the mobile service ID and the broadcast service identifier of at least one memory device 126 of the server.

Based on the subscription information received, the broadcast application server 122 broadcasts one of a number of broadcast-multicast flows requested to provide to the communicable area 109 or currently present in the communicable area. Determine to block, unblock, downgrade, and / or upgrade the multicast flow (410). Furthermore or alternatively, the broadcast application server 122 may add the broadcast-multicast flow to the broadcast-multicast flows provided in the communicable area 109, ie a new flow within the communicable area may be added. It may be determined 410 to request the broadcast-multicast content provider 136, 138 to make it available.

In one embodiment of the invention, based on the subscription information, the broadcast application server 122 may, for example, subscribe to a flow and exist in a coverage area (although not all subscribed MSs request the flow). Service due to MS's, or due to low preferences associated with one or more flows, or due to low MS subscription to bandwidth or QoS associated with one or more flows, or with bandwidth or QoS associated with a non-plan or bronze plan subscriber. May decide to block or downgrade one or more requested or currently being offered broadcast-multicast flows due to the low bandwidth or QoS associated with the service plan subscribed by the MSs requesting or receiving.

In another embodiment of the present invention, based on the subscription information, broadcast application server 122 may, for example, subscribe to a flow and reside in a communicable area (although not all subscribed MSs may request the flow). Due to MSs, or due to high preferences associated with one or more flows, or due to high MS subscription to bandwidth or high QoS associated with one or more flows, or to request a service such as bandwidth or QoS associated with a Gold Plan subscriber Or unblock or upgrade one or more requested or currently being provided broadcast-multicast flows due to high bandwidth or high QoS associated with the service plan subscribed by the receiving MSs and / or the coverage area New broadcast-multi on flows sent to 109 It may decide to add a host flow.

 Blocking, unblocking, downgrading, or upgrading one or more requested or currently provided broadcast-multicast flows or assigning a new broadcast-multicast flow to flows sent to the communicable area 109 In response to adding, the broadcast application server 122 blocks, unblocks, downgrades, or ups the broadcast-multicast flow of one of a number of requested or currently being provided broadcast-multicast flows. Grade. Furthermore or alternatively, the broadcast application server 122 may add a new broadcast-multicast flow to the broadcast-multicast flows sent to the communicable area 109. When the broadcast application server 122 decides to downgrade or upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, the server downgrades or upgrades the flow by adjusting the service class of the flow or one or more transmission parameters of the flow. can do. When the broadcast application server 122 decides to add the broadcast-multicast flow, the server broadcasts the broadcast-multicast content provider 136, 38 so that a new flow is available for broadcasting in the coverage area 109. ), Where the new flow may be assigned a new flow by the server based on the received subscription information. The broadcast application server 122 adds the requested flow to the flows to be sent to the communicable area 109. Broadcast application server 122 then unblocks broadcast-multicast of each of the plurality of requested or ongoing broadcast-multicast flows, including any adjusted flows and any added flows. Send the flow to BS 110 (414). BS 110 broadcasts broadcast-multicast flows received from broadcast application server 122 to subscribed MSs.

In one embodiment of the invention, when selecting a broadcast-multicast flow to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade, or add, the broadcast application server 122 is associated with each MS and received by the server. The subscription information and / or service transfer parameters maintained by the server in association with each flow may be taken into account and the algorithm maintained in the at least one memory device 126 may be executed. In particular, broadcast application server 122 may consider the order of preference assigned to each requested service by an associated MS or by an operator of communication system 100. In one such embodiment of the invention, the broadcast application server 122 may block or downgrade the low preference broadcast-multicast service (eg, reduce the bandwidth or QoS of the service or Change classes). In other embodiments of the invention, the broadcast application server 122 may unblock, upgrade (or increase the bandwidth or QoS of, or change the class of service) the high-preferred broadcast-multicast service. Or add it. In another embodiment of the present invention, the algorithm executed by the broadcast application server 122 may take into account the cumulative order of preference assigned to each requested service by all requesting MSs. For example, assume that the order of preference is in the range of "10" (high) to "1" (low). In addition, MS 102 requests to start service for CNN and assigns "8" to CNN, while MS 103 and MS 104 respectively request to start service for HBO and "3". Assume that "2" is assigned to HBO, respectively. The cumulative order of preference is "8" for CNN and "5" for HBO. As a result, when transmission of services causes congestion at BS 110, broadcast application server 122 may block or adjust the transmission parameters of the HBO. As another example, when the transmission of services causes congestion at BS 110, broadcast application server 122 is assigned a preference assigned to each requested broadcast-multicast service by each MS, i.e., only MS. The preferences assigned to each of the CNN and HBO by each of the MSs 102-104, rather than the service requested by it, may be taken into account.

In other embodiments of the invention, when selecting a broadcast-multicast flow to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade, or add, the algorithm executed by the broadcast application server 122 may be broadcast-multiple. Each broadcast-multicast flow at BS 110, such as maximizing the number of MSs receiving cast flows, or maximizing the number of flows provided, or maximizing the revenue generated by the provision of flows. Further or alternatively, consideration may be given to the operational objectives associated with providing a. For example, when the broadcast application server 122 retrieves the subscriber profile of each MS 102-104 that is serviced by the BS 110 and requests to start a broadcast-multicast service, the profile is retrieved by the MS. It may include the price of each broadcast-multicast service subscribed to. When the broadcast application server 122 decides to block, transmit with reduced bandwidth, transmit reduced QoS, or send one or more broadcast-multicast services to another class of service, the broadcast application server at the BS It is possible to block or adjust the transmission parameters of the services in the reverse order of the revenues to be generated by providing the services of.

By providing subscriber information to the broadcast application server 122 when the server receives a request to start a service, the server is responsible for blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast flows. Make intelligent decisions. For example, the broadcast application server 122 may be subscribed to a flow due to a small number of MSs that are subscribed to and present in the coverage area, or due to low preferences associated with one or more flows, or that of a subscribed MS associated with one or more flows. Broadcast-multi because of low bandwidth or QoS, or low bandwidth or QoS associated with a service plan subscribed by MSs requesting or receiving services, such as low bandwidth or QoS associated with non-plan or bronze plan subscribers The bandwidth or QoS of the cast flow can be blocked or reduced or the service class of the broadcast-multicast flow can be changed. As another example, broadcast application server 122 may be subscribed to a flow due to multiple MSs that are subscribed to and present in the communicable area, or due to high preferences associated with one or more flows, or associated with one or more flows. Due to the high bandwidth or high QoS of the MS, or due to the high bandwidth or high QoS associated with the service plan subscribed by the MSs requesting or receiving the service, such as the high bandwidth or high QoS associated with the Gold Plan subscriber -May decide to unblock, upgrade or add multicast flows. Again, by having the broadcast application server 122 make known decisions, the overall efficiency of the communication system 100 is enhanced compared to the prior art, and subscriber dissatisfaction and disappointment with respect to system performance and substandard services is reduced. The goal of the operator of the communication system 100 can be achieved.

5 shows a logical flow diagram 500 illustrating a method by which communication system 100 regulates the provision of broadcast-multicast services by BS 100 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Similar to the logical flow diagrams 300, 400, the logical flow diagram 500 is capable of communication of a BS, such as the BS 110, in which the communication system 100 and in particular the broadcast application server 122 are serviced by a broadcast application server. A plurality of requests are received 504 to start a service for a number of broadcast-multicast flows in a communicable area, such as area 109. Similar to steps 304 and 404, the broadcast-multicast flow includes a mobile ID associated with the requested MS and further includes an identifier associated with the requested broadcast-multicast flow and from the MS sending the request or May be received from a network component.

The broadcast application server 122 receives 506 MS-related subscription information associated with each received request and receives congestion information from the BS 110 508, which has been described in detail above. The broadcast application server 122 may store subscription information and congestion information received in the at least one memory device 126. Based on the subscription information received and the congestion information received, the broadcast application server 122 is requested to provide to the coverage area 109 or a number of broadcast-multiple currently present in the coverage area 109. Decide to block, unblock, downgrade, and / or upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the cast flows or broadcast-multicast new to the broadcast-multicast sent to the communicable area 109 A cast flow may be added (510).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the broadcast application server 122 transmits all requested broadcast-multicast flows to the coverage area 109 as described in detail above with respect to step 310. It may be determined based on the congestion information whether to congest the communicable area and whether one or more of the requested and / or currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flows are blocked or downgraded. Optionally, the broadcast application server 122 may determine whether BS 110 can support additional broadcast-multicast flows and unblock one or more of the broadcast-multicast flows requested and / or currently being transmitted. Or may be determined based on the congestion information whether it may be upgraded or a new flow may be added. The broadcast application server 122 may block subscriptions, congestion information and service information to block, unblock, downgrade or upgrade one or more requested or currently provided broadcast-multicast flows or add new flows. Decisions can be made based on one or more of the following. For example, broadcast application server 122 may rank the broadcast-multicast flows based on the received subscription information and congestion information, and below the ranking threshold, the ranked flows are blocked and the reduced bandwidth is transmitted and reduced. One or more ranking thresholds may be determined to be sent in a specified QoS and / or in another class of service. For example, low preference broadcast-multicast flows that fall below a low threshold may be blocked, and mid-level preference broadcast-multicast flows that fall below a high threshold may be sent with reduced bandwidth or reduced QoS. Can be.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the broadcast application server 122 may block, unblock, downgrade, and / or block the one or more requested or currently transmitted broadcast flows as described above with respect to step 410. Or based on the subscription information whether it can be upgraded and / or a new flow can be added, and then one or more broadcast-multicast based on one or more of the subscription information, congestion information and service information. It may be determined to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade and / or add flows.

The broadcast application server 122 then performs a BS (unblocked broadcast-multicast flow of each of a number of requested or ongoing broadcast-multicast flows, such as any adjusted and added flows. 110, and transmits to (110). BS 110 broadcasts the broadcast-multicast flows received from broadcast application server 122 to subscribed MSs, and then logic flow 500 ends (518).

By providing congestion information and subscriber information to the broadcast application server 122 when the server receives a request to start a service, the server blocks, unblocks, downgrades and / or upgrades the broadcast-multicast flow. It is possible to make a known intelligent decision regarding and / or to decide to add a new broadcast-multicast flow to the broadcast-multicast flow to be sent to the communicable area 109. Once again, by allowing broadcast application server 122 to make known decisions in contrast to arbitrary blocking and downgrading of broadcast-multicast flows performed by conventional base stations, the overall efficiency of communication system 100 is enhanced. Subscriber dissatisfaction and disappointment with regard to system performance and substandard services is reduced, and the goal for the operator of the communication system 100 can be achieved.

Although the invention has been described in particular with respect to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various changes, modifications and alternatives can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all changes and alternatives are included within the scope of the present invention.

Advantages, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the advantages, solutions to problems and any component (s) that can achieve the advantages and solutions are not constituted as essential features or components of some or all of the claims. As used herein, “comprises” includes a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of components, not just including the components, but explicitly listing the process, method, article, and apparatus. It may include other components that are not. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated herein, the use of relationship terms such as first and second, top and bottom, etc., if any, must necessarily be any actual relationship or order between these objects or operations. It is used to distinguish one object or action from another object or action without requiring or meaning.

Claims (25)

In the method for providing a broadcast-multicast service, Receiving at least one request to start a service for a plurality of broadcast-multicast flows within a communicable area of the same base station; Receiving information regarding congestion in the communicable area; Based on the received congestion information, blocking a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows Unblocking a broadcast-multicast flow, downgrading a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, the plurality of broadcast-multi Determining one or more of upgrading the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the cast flows, and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area. ; In response to determining to block a broadcast-multicast flow, blocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the coverage area; In response to determining to unblock a broadcast-multicast flow, unblocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the coverage area; In response to determining to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, downgrading the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to upgrade a broadcast-multicast flow, upgrading the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; And In response to determining to add a new broadcast-multicast flow, adding a new broadcast-multicast flow within the coverage area. 2. The method of claim 1, in response to a decision to add a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the coverage area, requesting a new broadcast-multicast flow from a broadcast-multicast content provider. Further comprising, broadcast-multicast service providing method. 2. The broadcast of claim 1 further comprising assigning a bandwidth different from the bandwidth associated with the broadcast-multicast flow to one broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows. How to provide multicast service. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising blocking, unblocking, downgrading, and upgrading a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows based on the received congestion information and a new broadcast. Determining the one or more of adding a multicast flow is based on the received congestion information and in a transmission parameter associated with each broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows. Determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, and upgrading the broadcast-multicast flow based on the method. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: adjusting a transmission parameter of one or more currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flows in response to receiving information regarding congestion in the communicable area; -Performing at least one of blocking the transmission of the multicast flow, and unblocking the transmission of the one or more currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flows. . 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving preferences associated with each broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, blocking, unblocking, down the broadcast-multicast flow. Determining at least one of grading, upgrading and adding comprises: blocking, unblocking, downgrading, and / or broadcasting a broadcast-multicast flow based on the received congestion information and based on the received preferences. Determining one or more of upgrading and adding. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining at least one of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading and adding one broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows comprises: receiving Determining one or more of unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast based on the congested congestion information and maximizing an operational goal. How to Provide. A method for providing a broadcast-multicast service, the method comprising: Receiving at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows within a communicable area of the same base station; Receiving preference information associated with the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows; Blocking the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast-multi of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, based on the received preference information Unblocking a cast flow, downgrading a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, and broadcast-multi of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows Determining one or more of upgrading a cast flow and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area; In response to a blocking decision, blocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to an unblocking determination, unblocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to a downgrading decision, downgrading a broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to an upgrade decision, upgrading a broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow; And In response to the further determination, adding a new broadcast-multicast flow within the coverage area. 9. The method of claim 8, in response to determining to add a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the coverage area, requesting a new broadcast-multicast flow from a broadcast-multicast content provider. Further comprising, the broadcast-multicast service providing method. 9. The method of claim 8, wherein receiving at least one request to start a service comprises receiving at least one request from a mobile station to start a service, wherein receiving preference information from the mobile station. Receiving information comprising the step of receiving information. 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising maintaining a preference order of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows associated with a mobile station in a network component, wherein receiving preference information is applied to the preference information identifying the mobile station. Sending a request to the network component, and receiving an indication of a preference order of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows in response to sending the request. . 9. The method of claim 8, wherein determining at least one of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding a broadcast-multicast flow is based on the received preference information and maximizes an operation goal. Determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding a broadcast-multicast flow based on the method. A broadcast application server comprising a processor, comprising: The processor, Receive at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows within a communicable area of the same base station; Receive information regarding congestion in the communicable area; Blocking the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, based on the received congestion information; Unblocking a multicast flow, downgrading a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, broadcast of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows Determine one or more of upgrading a multicast flow and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area; In response to determining to block a broadcast-multicast flow, blocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to unblock a broadcast-multicast flow, unblocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to upgrade a broadcast-multicast flow, upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to add a new broadcast-multicast flow, adding a new broadcast-multicast flow within the coverage area. 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: answer a new broadcast-multicast flow from a broadcast-multicast content provider in response to determining to add a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area. A broadcast application server for sending requests for. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the processor requests information about one or more of the availability and channel conditions of the RF resources and in response to the request for information provides a plurality of broadcast-multicast flows of the RF resource of the communicable area. Receiving congestion information in the communicable area within the communicable area by receiving information about one or more of usability and channel conditions of the communicable area. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the processor receives information about one or more of bandwidth availability and congestion levels of a communicable area where the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows are provided. A broadcast application server that receives information about congestion. 14. The broadcast application of claim 13, wherein the processor further assigns a bandwidth different from the bandwidth associated with the broadcast-multicast flow to a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows. server. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to determine the plurality of broadcasts based on the received congestion information and based on a quality of service associated with each broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows. Block, unblock, down, broadcast-multicast flows by determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the cast-multicast flows. A broadcast application server that determines one or more of grading, upgrading, and adding. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: in response to receiving congestion information in the communicable area, adjusting a transmission parameter of one or more currently transmitted broadcasts, one or more currently transmitted broadcasts. And at least one of blocking transmission of multicast flows and unblocking transmission of one or more currently transmitted broadcast-multicast flows. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the processor receives preferences associated with each broadcast-multicast flow of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, the processor based on the received congestion information and the Broadcast by determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows based on received preferences The broadcast application server determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding the multicast. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to block, unblock, downgrade, upgrade, and add a broadcast-multicast flow based on the received congestion information and based on maximizing an operation goal. And determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast by determining the above. A broadcast application server comprising a processor, comprising: The processor, Receive at least one request to start a service for multiple broadcast-multicast flows within a communicable area of the same base station; Receive preference information associated with the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows; Blocking the broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, the broadcast-multi of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, based on the received preference information Unblocking a cast flow, downgrading a broadcast-multicast flow of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows, and broadcast-multi of one of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows Determine one or more of upgrading a cast flow, and adding a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area; In response to determining to block a broadcast-multicast flow, blocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to unblock a broadcast-multicast flow, unblocking transmission of the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, downgrade the broadcast-multicast flow before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow within the communicable area; In response to determining to upgrade the broadcast-multicast flow, upgrading the broadcast-multicast flow in the communicable area before transmitting the broadcast-multicast flow. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the processor responds to a decision to add a new broadcast-multicast flow for transmission within the communicable area, from the broadcast-multicast content provider to the new broadcast-multicast flow. Send a request for a broadcast application server. 23. The broadcast application server of claim 22, wherein the at least one request includes a listing of the plurality of broadcast-multicast flows and also includes an indicator for a preference order of the listed broadcast-multicast flows. . 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the processor determines one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast based on the received preference information and based on maximizing an operation goal. Thereby determining one or more of blocking, unblocking, downgrading, upgrading, and adding broadcast-multicast.

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