Methods and apparatus for providing an incentivized cooperative system for accessing radio access networks

摘要

Methods and apparatus are disclosed for providing improved service to wireless devices in a radio access network (RAN). This is accomplished through affording cooperative arrangements wherein a helper mobile device having a good link to the RAN assists another mobile device having a poorer quality link to access the RAN, thereby offering improved service. The arrangement includes an out of band link between the mobile devices that does not use the same radio access technology as the RAN. Additionally, an incentive scheme provides credit to users of the assisting devices that is configured to encourage and sustain future cooperative arrangements. Credit may be transferred from a user of the assisted device to the user of the helper device as compensation. Further, an operator of the RAN may also inject credit to users of helper devices to incentivize and sustain future cooperative arrangements.