Control device, wireless communication device, and control method

Abstract

A control device includes a control unit. The control unit acquires, from a first wireless communication device that performs data communication of a first application via a first PLMN, information related to the first communication including location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying a process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN, acquires, from a second wireless communication device that performs data communication of a second application via a second PLMN, information related to the second communication including location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying a process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN, and determines to execute a handover process that switches the PLMN of one of the wireless communication devices to the PLMN of the other wireless communication device, based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to control devices, wireless communication devices, and control methods. Background Technology

[0002] Services using the fifth-generation mobile communication system (so-called 5G), characterized by ultra-high speed, low latency, high reliability, and multiple simultaneous connections, are about to begin. Even in the 4G generation, wearable devices compatible with virtual reality (VR) have emerged, primarily for gaming use cases; however, providing services via radio is not easy from a latency and throughput perspective.

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Non-patent literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: US 2013 / 0303203 A Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] As mentioned above, 5G features ultra-high speed, low latency, high reliability, and multiple simultaneous connections, thus anticipating the transmission of high-quality motion graphics such as 4K and 8K. Furthermore, the widespread adoption of wearable devices, as a post-smartphone technology, is also expected. Some use cases for wearable devices require consideration not only of ultra-high speed but also of low latency and high reliability. For example, in games where multiple users participate simultaneously, even if users are playing in the same area or space (e.g., a square, a room), if the network configurations differ between users, the communication quality (end-to-end (E2E) quality of experience (QoE)) may vary. Therefore, ensuring fairness among users is crucial for the game to function. That is, when providing services to multiple users, it is important to minimize the differences in communication quality caused by network configuration.

[0008] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a control device, wireless communication device, and control method that can suppress differences in communication quality caused by network configuration when providing services to multiple users.

[0009] Solution to the problem

[0010] The control device includes a control unit. The control unit obtains information related to the first communication from a first wireless communication device performing data communication for a first application via a first PLMN. This information includes the location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN. The control unit also obtains information related to the second communication from a second wireless communication device performing data communication for a second application via a second PLMN. This information includes the location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN. Based on the information related to the first and second communication, the control unit determines to perform a switching process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of the other wireless communication device.

[0011] Brief description of the attached figures

[0012] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the 5G architecture used for roaming.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a wireless communication device according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a base station device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a data processing device according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the signaling flow accompanying SIM handover processing in a communication system according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a data processing device according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control device according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a data processing device according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a control device according to the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0024] Furthermore, in this specification and accompanying drawings, multiple components with substantially identical functional configurations can be distinguished by appending different letters after the same reference numerals. For example, multiple components with substantially identical functional configurations may be distinguished as wireless communication devices 100A and 100B as needed. However, when it is not particularly necessary to distinguish each of the multiple components with substantially identical functional configurations, only the same reference numerals are appended. For example, when it is not necessary to specifically distinguish wireless communication devices 100A and 100B, they are simply referred to as wireless communication device 100.

[0025] In addition, this disclosure will be described in the following order.

[0026] 1. Introduction

[0027] 2. First Embodiment

[0028] 2-1. Overall Structure of a Communication System

[0029] 2-2. Composition of Wireless Communication Equipment

[0030] 2-3. Composition of base station equipment

[0031] 2-4. Composition of Data Processing Equipment

[0032] 2-5. Composition of Control Equipment

[0033] 2-6. Examples of Communication System Operation

[0034] 2-7. PLMN Switching Process

[0035] 3. Second Embodiment

[0036] 4. Third embodiment

[0037] 5. Variations

[0038] 6. Conclusion

[0039] <1. Introduction>

[0040] Radio access technologies such as LTE and NR have been studied within 3GPP. LTE and NR are cellular communication technologies that enable mobile communication for terminal devices by arranging base stations in a cellular pattern to cover multiple areas. Note that in the following description, "LTE" includes LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Advanced Pro (LTE-A Pro), and Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (EUTRA). Additionally, "NR" includes New Radio Access Technology (NRAT) and the further EUTRA (FEUTRA).

[0041] NR is the next-generation (fifth generation: 5G) radio access technology (RAT) for LTE. NR is a radio access technology capable of handling various use cases, including enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communications (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). This paper studies the technical framework corresponding to the use cases, requirements, and deployment scenarios of NR.

[0042] Note that in the following embodiments, as one of the use cases of NR, an example will be described in which multiple users participate in a game provided by a cloud server at the same time.

[0043] <2. First Embodiment>

[0044] <2-1. Overall Structure of a Communication System>

[0045] Reference Figure 1 The communication system according to the first embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication system according to the first embodiment. For example... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, the communication system S includes a first wireless communication device 100A, a second wireless communication device 100B, a first base station device 200A belonging to a first Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), a second base station device 200B belonging to a second PLMN, a first core network 300A, a second core network 300B, a data processing device 400, and a control device 500. Note that the communication system S can be a wireless communication system using a terrestrial network or a wireless communication system using a non-terrestrial network. Furthermore, the communication system S can be a wireless communication system that utilizes a non-terrestrial network as a backhaul route for a terrestrial network. Note that terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks are not limited to the radio access schemes defined by NR, but can be radio networks using radio access schemes other than NR, such as LTE, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), or Code Division Multiple Access 2000 (CDMA2000).

[0046] Notice, Figure 1The diagram illustrates a scenario where the first base station device 200A and the second base station device 200B each include one base station; however, in practice, two or more base stations may be included. Furthermore, the first base station device 200A and the second base station device 200B are connected to the first core network 300A and the second core network 300B respectively via, for example, routers 600A and 600B. Additionally, as... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, it is assumed that the area RA covered by the first base station device 200A and the area RB covered by the second base station device 200B at least partially overlap. Furthermore, the area covered by base station device 200 is also referred to as a cell.

[0047] The cell provided by the base station equipment is called the serving cell. The serving cell includes the primary cell (PCell) and the secondary cell (SCell). When providing dual connectivity to the UE (wireless communication equipment) (e.g., EUTRA-EUTRA dual connectivity, EUTRA-NR dual connectivity (ENDC), EUTRA-NR dual connectivity with 5GC, NR-EUTRA dual connectivity (NEDC), and NR-NR dual connectivity), the PCell provided by the primary node (MN) and 0 or more SCells are called the primary cell group. Furthermore, the serving cell can include primary and secondary cells or primary SCG cells (PSCell). That is, when providing dual connectivity to the UE (wireless communication equipment), the PSCell provided by the secondary node (SN) and 0 or more SCells are called the secondary cell group (SCG). Unless specifically configured (e.g., PUCCH on the SCell), the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) is transmitted in the PCell and PSCell, not in the SCell. Additionally, radio link failures are detected in the PScell ​​and PSCell, not in the SCell (and may not be detected at all). As mentioned above, PCells and PScells are also referred to as special cells (SpCells) because they play a special role in the serving cell. A downlink component carrier and an uplink component carrier can be associated with a cell. Furthermore, the system bandwidth corresponding to a cell can be divided into multiple bandwidth portions. In this case, one or more bandwidth portions can be set in the UE, and one bandwidth portion can be used as the active BWP for that UE (wireless communication device). Additionally, the radio resources (e.g., frequency bands, parameter sets (subcarrier spacing)) and time slot formats (time slot composition) that the UE (wireless communication device) can use may differ for each cell, each component carrier, or each BWP.

[0048] Furthermore, in the following description, the concept of base station equipment (hereinafter also referred to as a base station) may include relay equipment (hereinafter also referred to as a relay station (relay node)) and donor base stations that provide wireless interfaces to relay stations. Additionally, in the concept of a base station, a base station may be a base station with a function called Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB), which provides access lines to wireless communication equipment and backhaul lines to relay equipment. Furthermore, the concept of a base station includes not only the structure having base station functions but also the equipment installed within that structure. Such structures are, for example, buildings, such as high-rise buildings, houses, iron towers, station facilities, airport facilities, port facilities, or stadiums. Note that the concept of a structure includes not only buildings but also structures such as tunnels, bridges, dams, walls, or iron pillars (non-building structures) and equipment such as cranes, gates, or windmills. Furthermore, the concept of a structure includes not only above-ground (land-based) structures or underground structures but also above-water structures such as platforms or large floating bodies, and underwater structures such as marine observation facilities. Additionally, a base station may consist of a collection of multiple physical or logical devices. For example, in embodiments of this disclosure, a base station may be distinguished as multiple devices of baseband unit (BBU) and radio unit (RU), and may be interpreted as an aggregation of multiple devices. Alternatively or alternatively, in embodiments of this disclosure, the base station may be one or both of a BBU and an RU. The BBU and RU may be connected by a predetermined interface (e.g., eCPRI). Alternatively or alternatively, the RU may be referred to as a remote radio unit (RRU) or a radio point (RD). Alternatively or alternatively, the RU may correspond to the gNB-DU described later. Alternatively or alternatively, the BBU may correspond to the gNB-CU described later. Alternatively or alternatively, the RU may be a device integrally formed with an antenna. The antenna included in the base station (e.g., an antenna integrally formed with the RU) may employ an advanced antenna system and support MIMO (e.g., FD-MIMO) or beamforming. In an advanced antenna system, the antenna included in the base station (e.g., an antenna integrally formed with the RU) may, for example, include 64 transmit antenna ports and 64 receive antenna ports.

[0049] Furthermore, the base station can be a mobile base station. For example, the base station can be a device installed in a mobile body, or it can be the mobile body itself. The mobile body can be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a mobile body moving on land (e.g., a vehicle such as a car, bus, truck, train, or linear motor locomotive), or a mobile body moving underground (e.g., in a tunnel) (e.g., a subway). Additionally, the mobile body can be a mobile body moving on water (e.g., a vessel such as a passenger ship, cargo ship, or hovercraft), or a mobile body moving underwater (e.g., a submersible such as a submersible, submarine, or unmanned underwater vehicle). Furthermore, the mobile body can be a mobile body moving within the atmosphere (e.g., an aircraft such as an airplane, airship, or drone), or a mobile body moving outside the atmosphere (e.g., an artificial celestial body such as a satellite, spacecraft, space station, or space probe).

[0050] Note that multiple base stations can be interconnected. One or more base stations can be included in a radio access network (RAN). That is, a base station can simply be referred to as a RAN, RAN node, access network (AN), or AN node. The RAN in LTE is called Enhanced Universal Terrestrial RAN (EUTRAN). The RAN in NR is called NGRAN. The RAN in W-CDMA (UMTS) is called UTRAN. LTE base stations are called evolved Node Bs (eNodeBs) or eNBs. That is, EUTRAN includes one or more eNodeBs (eNBs). Furthermore, NR base stations are called gNodeBs or gNBs. That is, NGRAN includes one or more gNBs. Additionally, EUTRAN can include gNBs (en-gNBs) connected to the core network (EPC) in an LTE communication system (EPS). Similarly, NGRAN can include ng-eNBs connected to the core network 5GC in a 5G communication system (5GS). Additionally or alternatively, when base stations are eNBs, gNBs, etc., these base stations can be referred to as 3GPP access. Additionally or alternatively, when base stations are access points used in wireless LANs, etc., these base stations can be referred to as non-3GPP access. Alternatively, the base station may be an optical extension device called a Remote Radio Header (RRH) or a Remote Radio Unit (RRU), or may be configured to include an RRH or RRU. Alternatively, when the base station is a gNB, it may be referred to as a combination of the aforementioned gNB Central Unit (CU) and gNB Distributed Unit (DU), or any one thereof. The gNB CU (Central Unit) hosts multiple upper-layer access layer messages (e.g., RRC, SDAP, PDCP) for communication with the UE. On the other hand, the gNB-DU hosts multiple lower-layer access layer messages (e.g., RLC, MAC, PHY). That is, among the messages and information generated by the base station device 200, RRC messages may be generated by the gNB CU, while PHY messages (e.g., DCI) may be generated by the gNB-DU. Alternatively, in the RRC configuration (semi-static notification), some configurations such as IE:cellGroupConfig (e.g., configurations regarding RLC, MAC, and PHY) can be generated by the gNB-DU, while the remaining configurations (e.g., configurations regarding RRC, SDAP, and PDCP) can be generated by the gNB-CU. These configurations can be sent and received via the F1 interface described later. The base station can be configured to communicate with other base stations. For example, when multiple base station devices are eNBs or a combination of eNB and en-gNB, the base stations can connect via the X2 interface. Alternatively, when multiple base stations are gNBs or a combination of gn-eNB and gNB, these devices can connect via the Xn interface.Alternatively, in cases where multiple base stations are combinations of gNB Central Units (CUs) and gNB Distributed Units (DUs), these devices can be connected via the aforementioned F1 interface. Messages and information generated by the base station devices can be transmitted between multiple base stations (e.g., via the X2, Xn, and F1 interfaces).

[0051] Wireless communication device 100 is a user-operated terminal device, such as a mobile phone, smart device (smartphone or tablet), personal digital assistant (PDA), or personal computer. Furthermore, wireless communication device 100 can be a machine-to-machine (M2M) device or an Internet of Things (IoT) device (e.g., it can be referred to as an MTC UE, NB-IoT UE, Cat.M UE, or NR-light UE). Additionally, wireless communication device 100 can be a wireless communication device installed in a mobile body, or it can be the mobile body itself. Note that wireless communication device 100 can be a relay station for relaying satellite communications, or it can be a base station for receiving satellite communications. Wireless communication device 100 corresponds to both terrestrial networks and non-terrestrial networks. Thus, wireless communication device 100 can communicate not only with terrestrial station devices but also with non-terrestrial station devices.

[0052] Furthermore, in LTE and NR, the wireless communication device 100, as a terminal device, can be referred to as a user equipment (UE). Alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 can be referred to as a mobile station (MS) or a wireless transceiver unit (WTRU). Note that the wireless communication device 100 is also referred to as a mobile station, mobile station equipment, or terminal. In embodiments of this disclosure, the concept of a wireless communication device includes not only portable terminal devices such as mobile terminals, but also devices, for example, installed in a structure or mobile body.

[0053] The core network 300 is, for example, an evolved packet core (EPC) or a 5G core network (5GC). The core network 300 includes gateway devices, barrier exchanges, etc., and connects to public networks via the gateway devices. Public networks are, for example, public data networks such as the Internet, local IP networks, or telephone networks (mobile phone networks, fixed-line phone networks, etc.). Gateway devices are, for example, server devices connected to the Internet, local IP networks, etc. Barrier exchanges are, for example, switches connected to the telephone network of a telephone company.

[0054] Note that the core network 300 may include management equipment for the management network. For example, the management equipment may function as a Mobility Management Entity (MME) in LTE or an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) in NR. The MME connects to the EUTRAN via the S1 interface and controls non-access stratum (NAS) signaling with the UE and manages the UE's mobility. The AMF connects to the NGRAN via the NG interface and controls non-access stratum (NAS) signaling with the UE and manages the UE's mobility.

[0055] In addition, the management device is connected to each of the multiple base station devices. The management device manages the communications of the base station devices. Besides control plane (C-Plane) nodes such as the management device, the core network 300 may include user plane (U-Plane) nodes that transmit user data between the packet data network (PDN) or data network (DN) and the RAN. U-Plane nodes in the EPC may include serving gateways (S-GW) or PDN gateways (P-GW). U-Plane nodes in the 5GC may include U-Plane functions (UPF). For example, the management device 10 manages the location of each wireless communication device 100 (UE) in the communication system S, on a per-area basis (e.g., tracking area, RAN notification area), for each wireless communication device 100. Note that the management device may manage, on a per-cell basis, which base station (or cell) the wireless communication device 100 is connected to, which base station (or cell) the wireless communication device 100 is in, and so on, for each wireless communication device 100.

[0056] The data processing device 400 is, for example, a device in the form of a cloud server. Furthermore, the data processing device 400 can be installed in a logical network called a data network (DN) that contacts the first core network 300A. The DN can be a network function (NF). Alternatively, the data processing device 400 itself can be a network function. Similarly, the data processing device 400 can be installed in a DN that contacts the second core network 300B.

[0057] although Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a scenario where the data processing device 400 and the control device 500 are located outside the first core network 300A and the second core network 300B; however, the invention is not limited to this example.

[0058] For example, data processing device 400 can be implemented in the DN of a third core network managed by a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), and control device 500 can be implemented as an application function (AF) of the third core network.

[0059] Furthermore, the third core network can be the home PLMN (HPLMN), and the first core network 300A (or the second core network 300B) can be the visitor PLMN (VPLMN). This will be referenced... Figure 2 illustrate.

[0060] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the 5G architecture used for roaming. Figure 2 In the 5G architecture for roaming shown in the diagram (see 3GPP TS23.501 4.2.4 Roaming reference architectures), the third core network is the HPLMN, and the first core network 300A (or the second core network 300B) is the VPLMN (Visitor PLMN), so that the MVNO can provide wireless communication services via the first base station equipment 200A belonging to the first PLMN (or the second base station equipment 200B belonging to the second PLMN).

[0061] Note that in order for MNVO to have Figure 2 The configuration shown in the diagram typically requires prior signing of a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with each of the first Mobile Network Operator (MNO) of the first PLMN and the second MNO of the second PLMN.

[0062] pass Figure 2 The configuration shown in the diagram allows the AF of the control device 500 to communicate with each NF belonging to the control plane of the first core network 300A and each NF belonging to the control plane of the second core network 300B via a service-based interface (SBI).

[0063] Here, the various NFs belonging to the control plane of the core network 300 include, for example, Network Open Function (NEF), Network Storage Function (NRF), Policy Control Function (PCF), Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), etc.

[0064] Furthermore, users subscribed to by an MVNO can, for example, select and set a first or second PLMN as the destination PLMN providing basic services. Additionally, the MVNO can offer users the option to switch to a different PLMN than the one set as the destination PLMN for specific services or applications, such as multiplayer gaming. Here, the other PLMNs besides the designated PLMN can include independent non-public networks (SNPNs) operated by non-public network (NPN) operators. SNPNs can be identified by a combination of PLMN ID and Network Identifier (NID).

[0065] Furthermore, the physical configuration of the first core network 300A and the second core network 300B depends on the implementation. For example, the placement of the equipment corresponding to the network function NF (User Plane Function, or DN) relative to the first base station equipment 200A and the second base station equipment 200B corresponding to the Radio Access Network (RAN) depends on the implementation. Additionally, the number of routers 600 traversed between the first base station equipment 200A or the second base station equipment 200B and the equipment corresponding to the DN also depends on the PLMN.

[0066] In 5G, low-latency wireless communication services are expected to be provided through end-to-end (E2E). In such low-latency services, there are concerns that differences in physical implementation, such as the installation location of the device corresponding to the UPF or the device corresponding to the DN, the capacity of the fiber optic cable connecting the devices in the core network 300, or the number of routers traversed between the first base station device 200A or the second base station device 200B and the device corresponding to the DN, can significantly affect latency characteristics.

[0067] For example, even if the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are playing the same multiplayer game in a location close to each other, whether the first wireless communication device 100A receives the first wireless communication service via the first PLMN or the second wireless communication device 100B receives the second wireless communication service via the second PLMN will affect the outcome of the game. If so, the game would no longer be valid. That is, when playing multiplayer games under wireless communication networks belonging to different PLMNs, it is important to address the differences in communication quality, such as latency characteristics, caused by such differences in physical implementation. In other words, when providing services to multiple users, it is important to minimize the differences in communication quality caused by network configuration.

[0068] The following will describe the composition of each device in the communication system S.

[0069] <2-2. Composition of Wireless Communication Equipment>

[0070] First, let me explain the structure of the wireless communication device 100. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a wireless communication device 100 according to the first embodiment. The wireless communication device 100 includes a wireless communication unit 110, a control unit 120, a storage unit 130, a network communication unit 140, an input / output unit 150, and a SIM storage unit 160. Figure 3The configuration shown in the diagram is a functional configuration; the hardware configuration may differ from this functional configuration. Furthermore, the functionality of the wireless communication device 100 can be distributed across multiple physically separate configurations. Figure 3 The configuration shown in the diagram is an example, and the wireless communication unit 110, control unit 120, storage unit 130, network communication unit 140, and input / output unit 150 are not all essential components. For example, from the viewpoint of embodiments of this disclosure, at least the network communication unit 140 and the input / output unit 150 may not be essential components.

[0071] Wireless communication unit 110 is a wireless communication interface for communicating wirelessly with other wireless communication devices (e.g., base station device 200). Wireless communication unit 110 corresponds to one or more wireless access methods. For example, wireless communication unit 110 is compatible with both NR and LTE. In addition to NR or LTE, wireless communication unit 110 may also be compatible with W-CDMA or cdma2000. Wireless communication unit 110 includes a receiving processing unit 111, a transmitting processing unit 112, and an antenna 113. Wireless communication unit 110 may include multiple receiving processing units 111, multiple transmitting processing units 112, and multiple antennas 113. Note that when wireless communication unit 110 supports multiple wireless access methods, the individual units in wireless communication unit 110 can be configured separately for each wireless access method. For example, the receiving processing unit 111 and the transmitting processing unit 112 can be configured separately for LTE and NR.

[0072] The receiving processing unit 111 processes the downlink signal received via the antenna 113. The receiving processing unit 111 includes a wireless receiving unit 111a, a demultiplexing unit 111b, a demodulation unit 111c, and a decoding unit 111d.

[0073] The wireless receiving unit 111a performs down-conversion, removal of unnecessary frequency components, amplification level control, quadrature demodulation, digital signal conversion, guard interval removal, and frequency domain signal extraction via Fast Fourier Transform on the downlink signal. The demultiplexing unit 111b demultiplexes the downlink channel, downlink synchronization signal, and downlink reference signal from the signal output from the wireless receiving unit 111a. The downlink channel is, for example, a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH), or Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH). The demodulation unit 111c demodulates the received signal using modulation schemes such as BPSK, QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, or 256QAM. The decoding unit 111d decodes the coded bits of the demodulated downlink channel. The decoded downlink data and downlink control information are output to the control unit 120.

[0074] The transmission processing unit 112 performs transmission processing of uplink control information and uplink data. The transmission processing unit 112 includes an encoding unit 112a, a modulation unit 112b, a multiplexing unit 112c, and a wireless transmission unit 112d.

[0075] Encoding unit 112a encodes the uplink control information and uplink data input from control unit 120 using encoding methods such as block coding, convolutional coding, turbo coding, low-density parity-check (LDPC) coding, or polar coding. Modulation unit 112b modulates the coded bits output from encoding unit 112a using a predetermined modulation scheme such as BPSK, QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, or 256QAM. Multiplexing unit 112c multiplexes the modulation symbols and uplink reference signals of each channel and arranges the multiplexed symbols in predetermined resource elements. Wireless transmission unit 112d performs various signal processing on the signals from multiplexing unit 112c. For example, wireless transmission unit 112d performs processing such as conversion from time domain to frequency domain via inverse fast Fourier transform, addition of guard interval, generation of baseband digital signals, conversion to analog signals, quadrature modulation, up-conversion, removal of an additional frequency component, and power amplification. The signal generated by the transmission processing unit 112 is transmitted from the antenna 113.

[0076] Storage unit 130 is a storage device capable of reading and writing data, such as DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, or hard disk. Storage unit 130 serves as the storage unit of wireless communication device 100.

[0077] The network communication unit 140 is a communication interface used for communicating with other devices. For example, the network communication unit 140 is a LAN interface such as a NIC. The network communication unit 140 can be a wired interface or a wireless interface. The network communication unit 140 functions as the network communication unit of the wireless communication device 100. Under the control of the control unit 120, the network communication unit 140 communicates with other devices.

[0078] The input / output unit 150 is a user interface for exchanging information with the user. For example, the input / output unit 150 may be an operating device for various user operations, such as a keyboard, mouse, operation keys, touch panel, controller, and camera. Alternatively, the input / output unit 150 may be a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescent (EL) display. The input / output unit 150 may be a sound device such as a speaker, buzzer, or microphone. Furthermore, the input / output unit 150 may be a lighting device such as a light-emitting diode (LED). Additionally, the input / output unit 150 may be an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for detecting the user's motion. Here, inertial measurement devices include, for example, accelerometers, rotational angular acceleration sensors (gyroscopes), magnetic field sensors, barometric pressure sensors, temperature sensors, etc. The input / output unit 150 functions as an input / output unit (input unit, output unit, operation unit, or notification unit) of the wireless communication device 100.

[0079] The SIM storage unit 160 is, for example, a slot for storing a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). Here, the SIM is a module that stores information that identifies a subscriber to a wireless communication service provided by a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) or MVNO; for example, it could be a Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) used in LTE or a Next-Gen USIM for 5G. Furthermore, the SIM is not limited to a removable SIM card; it could be, for example, an embedded SIM (eSIM) or an integrated SIM constructed within a SoC. Additionally, eSIMs and integrated SIMs can be downloadable SIMs whose stored content can be written to or updated via external devices or wired or wireless networks. Downloadable SIMs can be, for example, referred to as soft SIMs or software SIMs.

[0080] Additionally, the SIM stores a list of PLMNs to which the wireless communication device 100 can connect (hereinafter referred to as the PLM list). The PLMN list includes, for example, IDs (PLMN IDs) used to identify multiple PLMNs to which the wireless communication device 100 can connect.

[0081] by Figure 1For example, the SIM of each of the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B includes a first PLMN ID that identifies the first PLMN and a second PLMN ID that identifies the second PLMN. Note that, in addition to the PLMNs owned by the MNO, the PLMN list may also include the PLMN IDs of PLMNs owned by MNOs with which the MNO has a roaming agreement.

[0082] Control unit 120 is a controller that controls the various units of wireless communication device 100. Control unit 120 is implemented, for example, by a processor such as a CPU or MPU. For instance, control unit 120 is implemented by the processor using RAM or the like as its working area to execute various programs stored in a memory device within wireless communication device 100. Note that control unit 120 can also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA. Any of a CPU, MPU, ASIC, and FPGA can be considered a controller.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown in the diagram, the control unit 120 includes at least a measurement unit 121 and a SIM switching unit 122. The various blocks constituting the control unit 120 (measurement unit 121 and SIM switching unit 122) are functional blocks that indicate the functions of the control unit 120. These functional blocks can be software blocks or hardware blocks. For example, each of the above functional blocks can be a software module implemented in software (including microprograms), or it can be a circuit block on a semiconductor chip (die). Of course, each functional block can be a processor or an integrated circuit. The configuration of the functional blocks is arbitrary. Note that the control unit 120 can be composed of functional units different from the functional blocks described above.

[0084] The operation of the various blocks constituting the control unit 120 (measurement unit 121 and SIM switching unit 122) will be described later.

[0085] <2-3. Composition of Base Station Equipment>

[0086] Next, the composition of the base station equipment 200 will be explained. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a base station device 200 according to the first embodiment. The base station device 200 includes a wireless communication unit 210, a control unit 220, and a storage unit 230. Note that... Figure 4 The configuration shown in the diagram is a functional configuration; the hardware configuration may differ from this functional configuration. Furthermore, the functions of the base station equipment 200 can be distributed across multiple physically separate configurations.

[0087] Wireless communication unit 210 is a wireless communication interface for communicating with other wireless communication devices (e.g., other base station devices 200 such as wireless communication device 100 or a relay station). Wireless communication unit 210 corresponds to one or more wireless access methods. For example, wireless communication unit 210 is compatible with both NR and LTE. In addition to NR or LTE, wireless communication unit 210 may also be compatible with W-CDMA or cdma2000. Wireless communication unit 210 includes a receiving processing unit 211, a transmitting processing unit 212, and an antenna 213. Wireless communication unit 210 may include multiple receiving processing units 211, multiple transmitting processing units 212, and multiple antennas 213. Note that when wireless communication unit 210 supports multiple wireless access methods, the individual units in wireless communication unit 210 can be configured separately for each wireless access method. For example, the receiving processing unit 211 and the transmitting processing unit 212 can be configured separately for LTE and NR.

[0088] The receiving processing unit 211 processes the uplink signal received via the antenna 213. The receiving processing unit 211 includes a wireless receiving unit 211a, a demultiplexing unit 211b, a demodulation unit 211c, and a decoding unit 211d.

[0089] The wireless receiving unit 211a performs down-conversion, removal of unnecessary frequency components, amplification level control, quadrature demodulation, conversion to digital signal, removal of guard interval, and extraction of frequency domain signal through fast Fourier transform on the uplink signal. The demultiplexing unit 211b demultiplexes the signal output from the wireless receiving unit 211a into uplink channels such as the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) or Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) and uplink reference signals. The demodulation unit 211c demodulates the received signal using modulation schemes such as Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK) or Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) for the modulation symbols of the uplink channels. The modulation scheme used by the demodulation unit 211c can be 16-QAM, 64QAM, 256QAM, etc. The decoding unit 211d decodes the coded bits of the demodulated uplink channels. The decoded uplink data and uplink control information are output to the control unit 23.

[0090] The transmission processing unit 212 performs transmission processing of downlink control information and downlink data. The transmission processing unit 212 includes an encoding unit 212a, a modulation unit 212b, a multiplexing unit 212c, and a wireless transmission unit 212d.

[0091] Encoding unit 212a encodes the downlink control information and downlink data input from control unit 23 using encoding methods such as block coding, convolutional coding, turbo coding, LDPC coding, or polar coding. Modulation unit 212b modulates the coded bits output from encoding unit 212a using a predetermined modulation scheme such as BPSK, QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, or 256QAM. Multiplexing unit 212c multiplexes the modulation symbols and downlink reference signals of each channel and arranges the multiplexed symbols in predetermined resource elements. Wireless transmission unit 212d performs various signal processing on the signals from multiplexing unit 212c. For example, wireless transmission unit 212d performs processing such as conversion from time domain to frequency domain via inverse fast Fourier transform, addition of guard interval, generation of baseband digital signals, conversion to analog signals, quadrature modulation, up-conversion, removal of extra frequency components, and power amplification. The signal generated by the transmission processing unit 212 is transmitted from the antenna 213.

[0092] Storage unit 230 is a storage device capable of reading and writing data, such as DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, or hard disk. Storage unit 230 serves as the storage unit of base station equipment 200.

[0093] Control unit 220 is a controller that controls the various units of base station equipment 200. Control unit 220 is implemented, for example, by a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor (MPU). For example, control unit 220 is implemented by a processor using random access memory (RAM) or similar memory as its working area to execute various programs stored in storage devices within base station equipment 200. Note that control unit 220 can also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Any of a CPU, MPU, ASIC, and FPGA can be considered a controller.

[0094] Note that the operation of the control unit 220 will be explained later.

[0095] <2-4. Composition of Data Processing Equipment>

[0096] Next, the composition of the data processing device 400 will be explained. Figure 5 This is an illustration illustrating an example of the configuration of the data processing device 400 according to the first embodiment. The data processing device 400 includes a communication unit 410, a control unit 420, and a storage unit 430. Note that... Figure 5 The configuration shown in the diagram is a functional configuration; the hardware configuration may differ from this functional configuration. Furthermore, the functions of the data processing device 400 can be distributed across multiple physically separate configurations.

[0097] Communication unit 410 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices. Communication unit 410 can be a network interface or a device connection interface. Communication unit 410 has the function of directly or indirectly connecting to network functions such as the DN of core network 300.

[0098] For example, communication unit 410 may include a local area network (LAN) interface such as a network interface card (NIC), or may include a USB interface, including a universal serial bus (USB) host controller, USB port, etc. Furthermore, communication unit 410 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface.

[0099] The communication unit 410 functions as the communication unit of the data processing device 400. Under the control of the control unit 420, the communication unit 410 communicates with the network function of the core network 300.

[0100] Storage unit 430 is a storage device capable of reading and writing data, such as DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, or hard disk. Storage unit 430 serves as the storage unit of data processing device 400.

[0101] Control unit 420 is a controller that controls the various units of data processing device 400. Control unit 420 is implemented, for example, by a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor (MPU). For example, control unit 420 is implemented by a processor using random access memory (RAM) or similar memory as its working area to execute various programs stored in storage devices within data processing device 400. Note that control unit 420 can also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Any of a CPU, MPU, ASIC, and FPGA can be considered a controller.

[0102] Note that the operation of the control unit 420 will be explained later.

[0103] <2-5. Composition of Control Equipment>

[0104] Next, the composition of the control device 500 will be explained. Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control device 500 according to the first embodiment. The control device 500 includes a communication unit 510, a control unit 520, and a storage unit 530. Note that... Figure 6 The configuration shown in the diagram is a functional configuration; the hardware configuration may differ from this functional configuration. Furthermore, the functions of the control device 500 can be distributed across multiple physically separate configurations.

[0105] The communication unit 510 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices (e.g., data processing device 400). The communication unit 510 can be a network interface or a device connection interface. The communication unit 510 has the function of being directly or indirectly connected to the data processing device 400.

[0106] For example, communication unit 510 may include a local area network (LAN) interface such as a network interface card (NIC), or may include a USB interface, including a universal serial bus (USB) host controller, USB port, etc. Furthermore, communication unit 510 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface.

[0107] The communication unit 510 serves as the communication unit of the control device 500. Under the control of the control unit 520, the communication unit 510 communicates with the data processing device 400.

[0108] Storage unit 530 is a storage device capable of reading and writing data, such as DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, or hard disk. Storage unit 530 serves as the storage unit for controlling device 500.

[0109] Control unit 520 is a controller that controls the various units of control device 500. Control unit 520 is implemented, for example, by a processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor (MPU). For example, control unit 520 is implemented by a processor using random access memory (RAM) or similar memory as its working area to execute various programs stored in a storage device within control device 500. Note that control unit 520 can also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Any of a CPU, MPU, ASIC, and FPGA can be considered a controller.

[0110] like Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, the control unit 520 includes at least an acquisition unit 521, a switching determination unit 522, and a switching decision unit 523. Each block constituting the control unit 520 (acquisition unit 521, switching determination unit 522, and switching decision unit 523) is a functional block that indicates the function of the control unit 520. These functional blocks can be software blocks or hardware blocks. For example, each of the above functional blocks can be a software module implemented in software (including microprograms), or it can be a circuit block on a semiconductor chip (die). Of course, each functional block can be a processor or an integrated circuit. The method of constructing the functional blocks is arbitrary. Note that the control unit 520 can be constructed from functional units different from the above functional blocks.

[0111] The operation of each block constituting the control unit 520 (acquisition unit 521, switching determination unit 522, and switching decision unit 523) will be described later.

[0112] <2-6. Examples of Communication System Operations>

[0113] Next, an operational example of the communication system S will be described. In the communication system S according to the first embodiment, although details will be described later, a PLMN switching process is performed so that the terminal devices (wireless communication devices 100) of multiple users participating in a multiplayer game simultaneously become the same PLMN. As a result, multiple users can use the same MNO (or MVNO) wireless communication service via the same PLMN, thereby, for example, suppressing differences in communication quality between users when playing a multiplayer game.

[0114] <Registration Processing>

[0115] The PLMN handover process will be described in detail below. First, the registration process performed before the PLMN handover process will be explained. The registration process is performed by the wireless communication device 100 (ME: mobile device). First, in the registration process, the wireless communication device 100 reads the PLMN list from the SIM stored in the SIM storage unit 160 and selects the home PLMN (HPLMN) from the PLMN list. Then, the wireless communication device 100 sends a registration request to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) belonging to the selected HPLMN via the wireless communication unit 110.

[0116] For example, Figure 1 The first wireless communication device 100A shown in the diagram sends a registration request to the AMF of the first core network 300A via the first base station device 200A, where the HPLMN is the first PLMN and belongs to the first PLMN.

[0117] Similarly, Figure 1 The second wireless communication device 100B shown in the diagram sends a registration request to the AMF of the second core network 300B via the second base station device 200B, in which the HPLMN is the second PLMN and belongs to the second PLMN.

[0118] Then, when a registration request is received from the wireless communication device 100 and registration is allowed, the AMF of the core network 300 sends a registration acceptance (acceptance) to the wireless communication device 100, and the registration process is completed.

[0119] When the registration process is complete, the wireless communication device 100 enters the communication range (registered state) relative to communication via the core network 300 belonging to the HPLMN. On the other hand, the wireless communication device 100 is outside the communication range (deregistered state) relative to communication via the core network 300 not belonging to the HPLMN.

[0120] Subsequently, after the registration process, the wireless communication device 100 establishes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session with the DN, which serves as the network function of the core network 300, in order to receive wireless communication services.

[0121] For example, Figure 1 The first wireless communication device 100A shown in the diagram establishes a PDU session with the DN belonging to the first core network 300A to receive the first wireless communication service.

[0122] Similarly, Figure 1 The second wireless communication device 100B shown in the diagram establishes a PDU session with the DN belonging to the second core network 300B to receive the second wireless communication service.

[0123] <2-7. PLMN Switching Process>

[0124] Next, the PLMN handover process will be described. The PLMN handover process is performed by the wireless communication device 100, while the decision-making process regarding whether to perform the handover process is performed by the control device 500. Specifically, the control device 500 makes its decision-making process based on various information received from the wireless communication device 100.

[0125] For example, the measurement unit 121 of the wireless communication device 100 measures various information based on various signals received via a base station device 200 belonging to an HPLMN. For example, the measurement unit 121 receives a reference signal RS (reference signal) transmitted from an eNB or ng-eNB corresponding to a first base station device 200A or a second base station device 200B, and measures the reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), or signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR).

[0126] Furthermore, the measurement unit 121 can receive the secondary synchronization signal (SSS) contained in the synchronization signal (SS) / physical broadcast channel (PBCH) block transmitted from the gNB or en-gNB corresponding to the first base station device 200A or the second base station device 200B, and measure RSRP, RSRQ, or SINR. Here, instead of SSS, the demodulation reference signal (DMRS) or channel state information (CSI) RS used for PBCH can be used for the measurement of RSRP, RSRQ, or SINR.

[0127] Furthermore, the measurement unit 121 measures the data rate when receiving data from the data processing device 400. Here, when measuring the data rate, statistical processing is performed to measure the maximum data rate, minimum data rate, average data rate, and variance.

[0128] Additionally, the measurement unit 121 measures the delay time relative to the target device. For example, the wireless communication device 100 sets the data processing device 400 as the target device and uses Ping to measure the round-trip time (RTT) with the data processing device 400 as the delay time.

[0129] Furthermore, the measurement unit 121 receives reference signals containing location information transmitted from multiple base station devices 200 and measures the location of the wireless communication device 100. Additionally, if the measurement unit 121 is equipped with a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver, represented by the Global Positioning System (GPS), the location of the wireless communication device 100 can be measured via GNSS.

[0130] Figure 1 The control device 500 shown in the diagram receives data rate measurement results, delay time measurement results, and position measurement results from the measurement unit 121 of each of the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B at fixed or variable intervals. For example, the measurement unit 121 actively or in response to a request from the control device 500 transmits the data rate measurement results, RTT measurement results, and position measurement results.

[0131] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the signaling flow accompanying SIM handover processing in the communication system S according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 In this case, it is assumed that the first wireless communication device 100A uses the first wireless communication service provided by the first PLMN via the first base station device 200A, and the second wireless communication device 100B uses the second wireless communication service provided by the second PLMN via the second base station device 200B (step S101).

[0132] First, the first wireless communication device 100A sends a report of information related to the first communication to the control device 500 (step S102). Here, the information related to the first communication includes identification information for identifying the first wireless communication service used by the first wireless communication device 100A, and information related to the location of the first wireless communication device 100A. The identification information may be, for example, a PLMN ID for identifying the first PLMN, or information for identifying an application (service) executed via the first wireless communication service, such as a process ID for identifying a process in a multiplayer game processed by the data processing device 400. Note that the process ID may be, for example, a process ID managed by the operating system (OS) of the data processing device 400. That is, the control device 500 can obtain the process ID from the identification information from the data processing device 400. Furthermore, the information related to the first communication may include data rate measurement results, latency measurement results, etc.

[0133] Additionally, the second wireless communication device 100B sends a report of information related to the second communication to the control device 500 (step S103). Here, the information related to the second communication includes identification information for identifying the second wireless communication service used by the second wireless communication device 100B, and information related to the location of the second wireless communication device 100B. The identification information may be, for example, a PLMN ID for identifying the second PLMN, or information for identifying an application (service) executed via the second wireless communication service, such as a process ID for identifying a process in a multiplayer game processed by the data processing device 400. Note that the process ID may be, for example, a process ID managed by the operating system (OS) of the data processing device 400. That is, the control device 500 can obtain the process ID from the identification information from the data processing device 400. Furthermore, the information related to the second communication may include data rate measurement results, latency measurement results, etc.

[0134] Instead of process IDs, IDs (task IDs, session IDs) used to identify tasks or sessions managed by the OS of data processing device 400 can be used.

[0135] Subsequently, the switching determination unit 522 of the control device 500 confirms the relative positional relationship between the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B based on the information related to the first communication obtained by the acquisition unit 542 from the first wireless communication device 100A and the information related to the second communication obtained from the second wireless communication device 100B (step S104). The relative positional relationship may be information indicating the distance between the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B, or it may be information indicating whether the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are located in the same building or the same room. Alternatively, in step S104, the switching determination unit 522 of the control device 500 may identify the positional information of each of the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B (e.g., positional information based on GNSS and GPS (e.g., latitude, longitude, altitude, etc.)) and confirm the relative positional relationship between the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B based on the positional information.

[0136] Then, the switching determination unit 522 of the control device 500 determines the necessity of switching the PLMN based on the information related to the first communication obtained from the first wireless communication device 100A and the information related to the second communication obtained from the second wireless communication device 100B (step S105). For example, if the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B, which are located relatively close to each other, use wireless communication services of different PLMNs and are using a multiplayer game with the same process ID (or, task ID, or session ID) or preparing to start (waiting to start) a multiplayer game with the same process ID (or, task ID, or session ID), the switching determination unit 522 determines that switching the PLMN is necessary. Note that when the distance between the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B is less than a predetermined distance, or when the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are located in the same building, the same room, or the same square, the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are located relatively close to each other. On the other hand, the fact that the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are located relatively close to each other may mean that when switching PLMN, at least the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B belong to the same cell (serving cell), or the serving cells are the same and the difference in radio quality (e.g., RSRP, RSRQ, SINR) or communication quality (e.g., throughput, latency) between the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B is less than a predetermined threshold.

[0137] Then, for example, when it is decided to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN for the first wireless communication device 100A (step S106), the switching decision unit 523 of the control device 500 instructs the first wireless communication device 100A to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN (step S107).

[0138] Subsequently, when the control device 500 receives an instruction to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN via the first base station device 200A, the SIM switching unit 122 of the first wireless communication device 100A switches the SIM to perform the switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN (step S108).

[0139] Subsequently, after the connection process with the second base station device 200B is completed, the first wireless communication device 100A sends a handover completion notification to the control device 500 via the second base station device 200B (step S109). The handover completion notification indicates that the handover from the first PLMN to the second PLMN has been completed.

[0140] Then, since the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B are able to perform the second wireless communication service provided by the same second PLMN, they are able to enjoy multiplayer games in a homogeneous wireless communication environment.

[0141] Notice, Figure 7 The diagram illustrates an example where control device 500 instructs first wireless communication device 100A to switch from a first PLMN to a second PLMN. However, for example, control device 500 could instruct second wireless communication device 100B to switch from a second PLMN to a first PLMN.

[0142] Here, the switching decision unit 523 of the control device 500 can arbitrarily select whether the first wireless communication device 100A performs the switching from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, or whether the second wireless communication device 100B performs the switching from the second PLMN to the first PLMN.

[0143] Alternatively, the handover decision unit 523 may provide each of the first PLMN and the second PLMN with information about the priority of the handover destination, and decide on the PLMN as the handover destination based on the priority.

[0144] Additionally, the handover decision unit 523 can determine the PLMN as the handover destination based on data rate measurements or latency measurements (however, these are not essential components for PLMN handover). Specifically, the handover decision unit 523 can determine whether to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN or vice versa, based on latency measurements obtained from a first wireless communication device 100A using the first wireless communication service provided by the first PLMN (the first latency measurement) and latency measurements obtained from a second wireless communication device 100B using the second wireless communication service provided by the second PLMN (the second latency measurement). For example, when the second latency is shorter than the first latency, the handover decision unit 523 decides to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN. That is, the handover decision unit 523 determines the PLMN with the shorter latency as the handover destination.

[0145] Furthermore, the control device 500 can determine whether to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN or from the second PLMN to the first PLMN based on a measurement result of the data rate obtained from the first wireless communication device 100A using the first wireless communication service provided by the first PLMN (the measurement result of the first data rate) and a measurement result of the data rate obtained from the second wireless communication device 100B using the second wireless communication service provided by the second PLMN (the measurement result of the second data rate). For example, when the second data rate is greater than the first data rate, the switching decision unit 523 decides to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN. That is, the control device 500 determines the PLMN with the higher data rate as the switching destination.

[0146] Alternatively, when the control device 500 decides to cause the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B to execute a multiplayer game with the same process ID (e.g., when in...), Figure 7 In step S105, when determining the necessity of switching PLMNs, both the first wireless communication device 100A belonging to the first PLMN and the second wireless communication device 100B belonging to the second PLMN can switch their home destination to the third PLMN. That is, a PLMN (third PLMN) for multiplayer games can be provided, and... Figure 7 If step S105 determines that a PLMN needs to be switched, the home location of the wireless communication device playing a multiplayer game can be switched to the third PLMN.

[0147] As described above, according to the first embodiment, even when multiple users (e.g., friends in adjacent areas) start the same multiplayer game service via wireless communication services from different communication companies, switching PLMNs to enable the use of wireless communication services from the same communication company helps ensure a consistent Quality of Experience (QoE) for multiple users. That is, when providing services to multiple users, it helps suppress differences in communication quality caused by network configuration.

[0148] <3. Second Embodiment>

[0149] Next, the communication system S according to the second embodiment will be described. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is, for example, that when multiple users participate in the same multiplayer game, the timing of data transmission from the data processing device 400 to each wireless communication device 100 is changed based on the delay time of each wireless communication device 100.

[0150] Note that each user's wireless communication device 100 among multiple users may be in a state of using wireless communication services through different PLMNs, or may be in a state of using wireless communication services through the same PLMN through the switching process described in the first embodiment.

[0151] The second embodiment will now be described focusing on its differences from the first embodiment. The configuration of the communication system S according to the second embodiment is different from... Figure 1 The communication system S shown in the diagram is identical to that of the first embodiment.

[0152] In the second embodiment, the functional configuration of the data processing device 400 and the control device 500 differs from that in the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the data processing device 400 according to the second embodiment. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control device 500 according to the second embodiment.

[0153] like Figure 8 As shown in the diagram, the control unit 420 of the data processing device 400 includes a timing control unit 421 and a data processing unit 422. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown in the diagram, the control unit 520 of the control device 500 includes an acquisition unit 521, a delay time calculation unit 524, and an output unit 525.

[0154] Next, an operational example of the communication system S according to the second embodiment will be described. First, the acquisition unit 521 of the control device 500 acquires communication-related information from the wireless communication device 100. Specifically, the acquisition unit 521 acquires information related to the first communication from the first wireless communication device 100A. This information includes identification information for identifying an application (service) corresponding to the first wireless communication service, and a measurement result indicating the first delay time (RTT1). Additionally, the acquisition unit 521 acquires information related to the second communication from the second wireless communication device 100B. This information includes identification information for identifying an application (service) corresponding to the second wireless communication service, and a measurement result indicating the second delay time (RTT2). Note that the identification information is, for example, the process ID (or task ID or session ID) of a multiplayer game being processed by the data processing device 400.

[0155] Subsequently, the delay time calculation unit 524 of the control device 500 calculates the difference in delay caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service (such as the difference in the position of the wireless communication device 100, the difference in network configuration, etc.) based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication. That is, when the difference in delay is Df, the difference is calculated by Df = |RTT1 - RTT2| / 2.

[0156] Subsequently, when the identification information for identifying the application (service) is the same, the output unit 525 of the control device 500 provides the information based on the calculation result of the delay time calculation unit 524 to the timing control unit 421 of the data processing device 400. Note that the information based on the calculation result of the delay time calculation unit 524 includes information related to the difference in delay caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service (such as Df), the magnitude relationship of the delays, etc.

[0157] The data processing unit 422 of the data processing device 400 processes the first data to be sent to the first wireless communication device 100A or the second data to be sent to the second wireless communication device 100B via the communication unit 410.

[0158] Here, for example, when the magnitude relationship is RTT1 > RTT2, the timing control unit 421 controls to delay the transmission timing of the second data to be sent to the second wireless communication device 100B by |RTT1 - RTT2| / 2. That is, the timing control unit 421 delays the transmission timing to the second wireless communication device 100B to match the delay time of the first wireless communication device 100A with a long delay time. On the other hand, when RTT1 < RTT2, the timing control unit 421 controls to delay the transmission timing of the first data to be sent to the first wireless communication device 100A by |RTT1 - RTT2| / 2. That is, the timing control unit 421 delays the transmission timing to the first wireless communication device 100A to match the delay time of the second wireless communication device 100B with a long delay time.

[0159] As a result, when multiple users use the same multiplayer game service via the wireless communication services of different communication companies, regarding the delay of data transmission / reception, a unified QoE can be ensured. That is, for example, when providing services to multiple users who are relatively far away from each other (not in adjacent areas), the difference in communication quality related to delay caused by differences in network configuration, location, etc. can be suppressed.

[0160] In addition, the data processing unit 422 of the data processing device 400 can send the same third data to the first base station device 200A and the second base station device 200B via the communication unit 410 in a broadcast manner, and the timing control unit 421 can notify the above Df (=|RTT1 - RTT2| / 2) to the first base station device 200A or the second base station device 200B.

[0161] For example, in the case where the size relationship is RTT1 > RTT2, the timing control unit 421 notifies Df to the second base station device 200B, and the second base station device 200B delays the third data received from the data processing unit 422 by Df, and then sends the third data to the second wireless communication device 100B. The first base station device 200A directly sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the first wireless communication device 100A.

[0162] On the other hand, for example, in the case where the size relationship is RTT1 < RTT2, the timing control unit 421 notifies Df to the first base station device 200A, and the first base station device 200A delays the third data received from the data processing unit 422 by Df, and then sends the third data to the first wireless communication device 100A. The second base station device 200B directly sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0163] Note that the second embodiment is suitable when the signals in the transmission direction including the uplink and the signals in the reception direction including the downlink between the wireless communication device 100 and the data processing device 400 have time symmetry.

[0164] Next, in the second embodiment, time symmetry of transmission and reception is assumed. However, in the following modification example of the second embodiment, it is more preferable when the symmetry of transmission and reception regarding delay is not necessarily ensured due to the asymmetry of transmission and reception traffic.

[0165] First, the communication unit 410 of the data processing device 400 broadcasts a reference signal to the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B at a fixed or variable period. Then, the first wireless communication device 100A receives the reference signal sent from the data processing device 400 via the first core network 300A and the first base station device 200A. At this time, the measurement unit 121 of the first wireless communication device 100A measures the timing T1 of receiving the reference signal.

[0166] Similarly, the second wireless communication device 100B receives the reference signal transmitted from the data processing device 400 via the second core network 300B and the second base station device 200B. At this time, the measurement unit 121 of the second wireless communication device 100B measures the timing T2 of the received reference signal.

[0167] Then, the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B report the information of the measured timings T1 and T2 as communication-related information to the control device 500.

[0168] For example, the acquisition unit 521 of the control device 500 receives the measurement result (T1) related to the reception timing of the reference signal from the first wireless communication device 100A, and receives the measurement result (T2) related to the reception timing of the reference signal from the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0169] Then, the delay time calculation unit 524 calculates the difference in delay caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service. That is, when the difference in delay is Df, Df = |T1 - T2| is calculated.

[0170] Then, the output unit 525 provides the timing control unit 421 of the data processing device 400 with information about the difference in delay caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service calculated by the delay time calculation unit 524, for example, information about the magnitude relationship of |T1 - T2|.

[0171] Then, for example, when T1 > T2, the timing control unit 421 controls to postpone the transmission timing of the second data to be sent to the second wireless communication device 100B by |T1 - T2|. On the other hand, for example, when T1 < T2, the timing control unit 421 controls to postpone the transmission timing of the first data to be sent to the first wireless communication device 100A by |T1 - T2|.

[0172] In addition, for example, when the magnitude relationship is T1 > T2, the timing control unit 421 notifies the second base station device 200B of Df, and the second base station device 200B transmits the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the second wireless communication device 100B with a delay of Df. The first base station device 200A directly transmits the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the first wireless communication device 100A.

[0173] On the other hand, for example, when the size relationship is T1 < T2, the timing control unit 421 notifies Df to the first base station device 200A, and the first base station device 200A transmits the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the first wireless communication device 100A with a delay of Df. The second base station device 200B directly transmits the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0174] <4. Third Embodiment>

[0175] Next, the communication system S according to the third embodiment will be described. Specifically, the difference between the third embodiment and the first and second embodiments is, for example, that when multiple users participate in the same multiplayer game, the data rate of the data transmitted from the data processing device 400 to each wireless communication device 100 is changed based on the data rate of each wireless communication device 100.

[0176] Note that the wireless communication device 100 of each user among the multiple users may be in a state of using wireless communication services through different PLMNs, or may be in a state of using wireless communication services through the same PLMN through the handover process described in the first embodiment.

[0177] Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first and second embodiments. The configuration of the communication system S according to the third embodiment is the same as Figure 1 the configuration of the communication system S according to the first embodiment shown in the diagram.

[0178] In the third embodiment, the functional configurations of the data processing device 400 and the control device 500 are different from those of the first and second embodiments. Figure 10 FIG. is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the data processing device 400 according to the third embodiment. Figure 11 FIG. is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the control device 500 according to the third embodiment.

[0179] As Figure 10 shown in the diagram, the control unit 420 of the data processing device 400 includes a data rate control unit 423 and a data processing unit 422. Further, as Figure 11 shown in the diagram, the control unit 520 of the control device 500 includes an acquisition unit 521, a data rate ratio calculation unit 526, and an output unit 525.

[0180] Next, an operational example of the communication system S according to the third embodiment will be described. The acquisition unit 521 of the control device 500 acquires communication-related information from the wireless communication device 100. Specifically, the acquisition unit 521 acquires information related to first communication from the first wireless communication device 100A. This information includes identification information for identifying an application (service) corresponding to the first wireless communication service and a measurement result of the first data rate (which may be referred to as DR1). Additionally, the acquisition unit 521 acquires information related to second communication from the second wireless communication device 100B. This information includes identification information for identifying an application (service) corresponding to the second wireless communication service and a measurement result of the second data rate (which may be referred to as DR2). Note that the identification information is, for example, the process ID (or task ID or session ID) of a multiplayer game being processed by the data processing device 400.

[0181] Subsequently, the data rate ratio calculation unit 526 of the control device 500 calculates the difference in data rate caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service (difference in the location of the wireless communication device 100, difference in network configuration, etc.) based on information related to the first communication and information related to the second communication. That is, when the difference between the data rates is DRf, the difference is calculated by DRf = DR1 / DR2 (or DR2 / DR1).

[0182] Subsequently, when the identification information used to identify the application (service) is the same, the output unit 525 of the control device 500 provides information based on the calculation result of the data rate ratio calculation unit 526 to the data rate control unit 423 of the data processing device 400. Note that the information based on the calculation result of the data rate ratio calculation unit 526 includes information related to the difference in data rates caused by the difference between the first wireless communication service and the second wireless communication service (e.g., DRf), data rate magnitude relationship, etc.

[0183] The data processing unit 422 of the data processing device 400 processes first data to be transmitted to the first wireless communication device 100A or second data to be transmitted to the second wireless communication device 100B via the communication unit 410.

[0184] Here, for example, when the size relationship is DR1 > DR2, the data rate control unit 423 changes the transmission parameters so that the transmission data rate of the first data to be sent to the first wireless communication device 100A becomes DR2. For example, the data rate control unit 423 controls the resource allocation rate of the scheduler to DR2 / DR1. That is, the data rate control unit 423 reduces the transmission data rate of the first wireless communication device 100A to match the data rate of the second wireless communication device 100B with a small data rate. On the other hand, for example, when the size relationship is DR1 < DR2, the data rate control unit 423 changes the transmission parameters so that the transmission data rate of the second data to be sent to the second wireless communication device 100B becomes DR1. For example, the data rate control unit 423 controls the resource allocation rate of the scheduler to DR1 / DR2. That is, the data rate control unit 423 reduces the transmission data rate of the second wireless communication device 100B to match the data rate of the first wireless communication device 100A with a small data rate.

[0185] In addition, the data processing unit 422 of the data processing device 400 can send the same third data to the first base station device 200A and the second base station device 200B via the communication unit 410 in a broadcast manner, and the data rate control unit 423 can notify the above DRf ( = DR1 / DR2 (or DR2 / DR1)) to the first base station device 200A or the second base station device 200B.

[0186] For example, in the case where the size relationship is DR1 < DR2, the data rate control unit 423 notifies DRf to the second base station device 200B, and the second base station device 200B controls the resource allocation rate of the scheduler to DR1 / DR2 and sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the second wireless communication device 100B. The first base station device 200A directly sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the first wireless communication device 100A.

[0187] On the other hand, for example, in the case where the size relationship is DR1 > DR2, the data rate control unit 423 notifies DRf to the first base station device 200A, and the first base station device 200A controls the resource allocation rate of the scheduler to DR2 / DR1 and sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the first wireless communication device 100A. The second base station device 200B directly sends the third data received from the data processing unit 422 to the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0188] As a result, when multiple users use the same multiplayer gaming service via wireless communication services from different communication companies, a consistent Quality of Experience (QoE) can be ensured regarding data rate. That is, for example, when providing services to multiple users who are relatively far apart (not in adjacent areas), differences in communication quality related to data rate caused by differences in network configuration, location, etc., can be suppressed.

[0189] Note that the above description illustrates examples of implementing the second and third embodiments individually; however, it goes without saying that it is possible to implement both the second and third embodiments simultaneously. That is, the data processing device 400 can be configured as a control unit 420 having the functions of both a timing control unit 421 and a data rate control unit 423. Furthermore, the control device 500 can be configured as a control unit 520 having the functions of a delay time calculation unit 524 and a data rate ratio calculation unit 526.

[0190] Furthermore, the control device 500 can control the buffering in the buffers contained in the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B, as well as the processing of the buffered data, based on information about delay and information about data rate obtained from the first wireless communication device 100A and the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0191] For example, if the delay for the first wireless communication device 100A is X1, the delay for the second wireless communication device 100B is X2 (where X2 > X1), the data rate for the first wireless communication device 100A is Y1, and the data rate for the second wireless communication device 100B is Y2, the control device 500 instructs the first wireless communication device 100A to buffer the time period "X2-X1" in a buffer contained in the first wireless communication device 100A, and to begin buffering data processing after the "X2-X1" time period has elapsed. Furthermore, if Y2 > Y1, the control device 500 controls to reduce the resolution of image and / or audio data included in the data to be transmitted to the first wireless communication device 100A compared to the second wireless communication device 100B. On the other hand, if Y1 > Y2, the control device 500 controls to increase the resolution of image and / or audio data included in the data to be transmitted to the first wireless communication device 100A compared to the second wireless communication device 100B.

[0192] <5. Variations>

[0193] The above PLMN switching instructions (e.g., Figure 7Step S107) can be sent as an application layer message to the first wireless communication device (or the second wireless communication device). In this case, a PLMN handover indication can be sent by encapsulating the application layer message as a lower-level SDU in the lower-level header (e.g., ...). Figure 7 (Step S107). When the underlying layer is the RRC layer, the RRC message (RRC PDU) encapsulating the PLMN handover indication can be an RRC release message. That is, the control device 500 can instruct the base station device to send an RRC release message via the core network. The base station device can send an RRC release message in response to receiving a transmission command. The RRC release message can include a cause value, which can indicate the handover of the PLMN.

[0194] The base station equipment, wireless communication equipment, data processing equipment, or control equipment in this embodiment can be implemented using a dedicated computer system or a general-purpose computer system.

[0195] For example, a communication program for performing the above operations (e.g., PLMN switching processing, etc.) is stored on and distributed on a computer-readable recording medium such as an optical disc, semiconductor memory, magnetic tape, or floppy disk. Then, for example, the program is installed in a computer, and the above processing is performed to constitute a control device. At this time, the control device can be a wireless communication device 100, a base station device 200, a data processing device 400, a control device 500, or other external devices (e.g., a personal computer). Furthermore, the control device can be a device (e.g., various control units) located within the wireless communication device 100, the base station device 200, the data processing device 400, and the control device 500.

[0196] Additionally, the communication program can be stored on a disk drive contained in a server device on a network such as the Internet, allowing it to be downloaded to the computer. Furthermore, the above functionality can be achieved through the collaboration of an operating system (OS) and application software. In this case, components other than the OS can be stored on media and distributed, or components other than the OS can be stored on a server device and downloaded to the computer.

[0197] In the various processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as automatically performed can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as manually performed can be performed automatically by known methods. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters illustrated in the specification and drawings can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the various information illustrated in the various drawings is not limited to the illustrated information.

[0198] Furthermore, the components of the various devices illustrated in the diagram are functional concepts and may not necessarily be physically configured as shown. That is, the specific form of distribution and integration of the various devices is not limited to the illustrated form, and all or part of them can be distributed and integrated functionally or physically as arbitrary units in semi-static or dynamic manner according to various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0199] Furthermore, the above embodiments can be appropriately combined within the scope where the processing content does not contradict each other. Additionally, the order of the steps illustrated in the flowcharts or sequence diagrams of the various embodiments above can be changed as appropriate.

[0200] <6. Conclusion>

[0201] As described above, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the control device 500 includes a control unit 520. The control unit 520 obtains information related to the first communication from a first wireless communication device 100A conducting data communication for a first application via a first PLMN. This information includes location information of the first wireless communication device 100A, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN. The control unit 520 also obtains information related to the second communication from a second wireless communication device 100B conducting data communication for a second application via a second PLMN. This information includes location information of the second wireless communication device 100B, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN. Based on the information related to the first and second communication, the control unit 520 determines to perform a handover process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device 100 to the PLMN of another wireless communication device 100. This enables the suppression of communication quality differences caused by network configuration when providing services to multiple users.

[0202] Although various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, components of different embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined.

[0203] Furthermore, the effects of the various embodiments described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting; other effects may be provided.

[0204] Note that this technology can also have the following configuration.

[0205] (1) A control device, comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit:

[0206] Information related to the first communication is obtained from a first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via a first PLMN. The information related to the first communication includes the location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN.

[0207] Information related to the second communication is obtained from a second wireless communication device that performs data communication for the second application via a second PLMN. This information includes the location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN.

[0208] Based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication, it is determined to perform a switching process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device.

[0209] (2) The control device according to (1) above, wherein

[0210] For the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device, when the location information is within an arbitrarily set range, the processes of the first application and the second application are the same, and the first PLMN and the second PLMN are different,

[0211] The control unit determines to perform a switching process that switches the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device.

[0212] (3) The control device according to (1) to (2) above, wherein

[0213] The control unit acquires information related to a first delay time in data communication with the first wireless communication device and information related to a second delay time in data communication with the second wireless communication device, and

[0214] Based on the information related to the first delay time and the information related to the second delay time, it is determined to perform a switching process.

[0215] (4) The control device according to (3) above, wherein

[0216] When the second delay time is shorter than the first delay time, the control unit determines to perform a switching process to switch the first PLMN to the second PLMN.

[0217] If the first delay time is shorter than the second delay time, it is determined that the switching process of switching the second PLMN to the first PLMN will be executed.

[0218] (5) The control device according to (3) to (4) above, wherein

[0219] The control unit controls the timing of data transmission to be sent to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device based on the difference between the first delay time and the second delay time.

[0220] (6) The control device according to (5) above, wherein

[0221] The control unit delays the transmission timing of the wireless communication device with the shorter delay time among the first and second wireless communication devices according to the difference.

[0222] (7) The control device according to (1) to (6) above, wherein

[0223] The control unit acquires information related to the first data rate in data communication with the first wireless communication device, and information related to the second data rate in data communication with the second wireless communication device; and

[0224] Based on the information related to the first data rate and the information related to the second data rate, a switching process is determined to be performed.

[0225] (8) The control device according to (7) above, wherein

[0226] When the second data rate is greater than the first data rate, the control unit determines to perform a switching process to switch the first PLMN to the second PLMN; and

[0227] When the first data rate is greater than the second data rate, a switching process is performed to switch the second PLMN to the first PLMN.

[0228] (9) The control device according to (7) to (8) above, wherein

[0229] The control unit controls the data rate of the data to be transmitted to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device based on the difference or ratio between the first data rate and the second data rate.

[0230] (10) The control device according to (9) above, wherein

[0231] The control unit limits the maximum data rate of the wireless communication device with the larger data rate of the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device.

[0232] (11) The control device according to (10) above, wherein

[0233] The control unit limits the maximum data rate to a data rate corresponding to the difference or ratio.

[0234] (12) The control device according to (1) to (11) above, wherein

[0235] When the control unit determines to perform a handover process to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, it instructs the first wireless communication device to perform the handover process via the first base station device belonging to the first PLMN.

[0236] When it is determined to perform a handover process to switch from the second PLMN to the first PLMN, the second wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via the second base station device belonging to the second PLMN.

[0237] (13) A wireless communication device, comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit:

[0238] The location information of the wireless communication device is sent to the control device, and the wireless communication device performs an application that communicates data via the first PLMN;

[0239] The system receives an instruction to switch from a first PLMN to a second PLMN, the instruction being determined by the control device using the location information, information for identifying the application's processes, and information for identifying the first PLMN; and

[0240] According to the received instructions, perform the switching process from the first PLMN to the second PLMN.

[0241] (14) The wireless communication device according to (13) above, wherein

[0242] When a command to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN is received, the control unit selects a PLMN from the list of PLMNs contained in the SIM information stored in the SIM storage unit and sets it as the second PLMN.

[0243] (15) The wireless communication device according to (13) to (14) above, wherein

[0244] The control unit receives information about the second PLMN along with an instruction to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, and switches from the first PLMN to the second PLMN based on the information.

[0245] (16) A control method, comprising:

[0246] Information related to the first communication is obtained from a first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via a first PLMN. The information related to the first communication includes the location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN.

[0247] Information related to the second communication is obtained from a second wireless communication device that performs data communication for the second application via a second PLMN. This information includes the location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN.

[0248] Based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication, it is determined to perform a switching process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device.

[0249] (17) The control method described in (16) above further includes, for the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device, when the location information is within an arbitrary set range, the process of the first application and the process of the second application are the same, and the first PLMN and the second PLMN are different, determining to perform a switching process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of the other wireless communication device.

[0250] (18) The control method described in (16) to (17) above further includes:

[0251] When determining to perform a handover process to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, the first wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via a first base station device belonging to the first PLMN; and

[0252] When it is determined to perform a handover process to switch from the second PLMN to the first PLMN, the second wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via the second base station device belonging to the second PLMN.

[0253] (19) A control device, comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit:

[0254] Information related to a first delay time in the data communication of the first wireless communication device is obtained from the first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via the first PLMN.

[0255] Information related to a second delay time in the data communication of the second wireless communication device is obtained from the second wireless communication device performing the second application via the second PLMN; and

[0256] Based on the information related to the first delay time and the information related to the second delay time, the timing of transmitting data to be sent to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device is controlled.

[0257] (20) A control device, comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit:

[0258] Information related to the first data rate in the data communication of the first wireless communication device is obtained from the first wireless communication device that performs the first application via the first PLMN.

[0259] Information related to the second data rate in the data communication of the second wireless communication device is obtained from the second wireless communication device performing the second application via the second PLMN; and

[0260] Based on the information related to the first data rate and the information related to the second data rate, the data rate of the data to be transmitted to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device is controlled.

[0261] (21) A control method, comprising:

[0262] Information related to a first delay time in the data communication of the first wireless communication device is obtained from the first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via the first PLMN.

[0263] Information related to a second delay time in the data communication of the second wireless communication device is obtained from the second wireless communication device performing the second application via the second PLMN; and

[0264] Based on the information related to the first delay time and the information related to the second delay time, the timing of transmitting data to be sent to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device is controlled.

[0265] (22) A control method, comprising:

[0266] Information related to the first data rate in the data communication of the first wireless communication device is obtained from the first wireless communication device that performs the first application via the first PLMN.

[0267] Information related to the second data rate in the data communication of the second wireless communication device is obtained from the second wireless communication device performing the second application via the second PLMN; and

[0268] Based on the information related to the first data rate and the information related to the second data rate, the data rate of the data to be transmitted to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device is controlled.

[0269] List of reference numerals

[0270] 100 Wireless communication devices

[0271] 110 Wireless Communication Unit

[0272] 111 Receiving and Processing Unit

[0273] 111a Wireless Receiver Unit

[0274] 111b Multipath Decomposition Unit

[0275] 111c demodulation unit

[0276] 111d decoding unit

[0277] 112 Transmission Processing Unit

[0278] 112a coding unit

[0279] 112b Modulation Unit

[0280] 112c Multiplexing Unit

[0281] 112d Wireless Transmitter Unit

[0282] 113 antenna

[0283] 120 Control Unit

[0284] 121 Measurement Unit

[0285] 122 SIM switching unit

[0286] 130 storage units

[0287] 140 Network Communication Units

[0288] 150 Input / Output Units

[0289] 160 SIM storage unit

[0290] 200 base station equipment

[0291] 210 Wireless Communication Unit

[0292] 211 Receiving and Processing Unit

[0293] 211a Wireless Receiver Unit

[0294] 211b Multipath Decomposition Unit

[0295] 211c demodulation unit

[0296] 211d decoding unit

[0297] 212 Transmission Processing Unit

[0298] 212a coding unit

[0299] 212b Modulation Unit

[0300] 212c Multiplexing Unit

[0301] 212d Wireless Transmitter Unit

[0302] 213 antenna

[0303] 220 Control Unit

[0304] 230 storage units

[0305] 300 core network

[0306] 400 Data Processing Equipment

[0307] 410 Communication Unit

[0308] 420 Control Unit

[0309] 421 Timing Control Unit

[0310] 422 Data Processing Unit

[0311] 423 Data Rate Control Unit

[0312] 430 storage units

[0313] 500 control equipment

[0314] 510 Communication Unit

[0315] 512 Transmission Processing Unit

[0316] 520 Control Unit

[0317] 521 Acquisition Unit

[0318] 522 Switching Decision Unit

[0319] 523 Switching Decision Unit

[0320] 524 Delay Time Calculation Unit

[0321] 525 Output Unit

[0322] 526 Data Rate Ratio Calculation Unit

[0323] 530 storage units

[0324] 542 Acquisition Unit

[0325] 600 router

Claims

1. A control device, comprising a control unit, wherein the control unit: Information related to the first communication is obtained from a first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via a first PLMN. The information related to the first communication includes the location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN. Information related to the second communication is obtained from a second wireless communication device that performs data communication for the second application via a second PLMN. This information includes the location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN. Based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication, it is determined that a handover process will be performed to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device. For the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device, when the location information is within a set range, the processes of the first application and the second application are the same, and the first PLMN and the second PLMN are different, The control unit determines to perform a switching process that switches the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit acquires information related to a first delay time in data communication with the first wireless communication device and information related to a second delay time in data communication with the second wireless communication device, and Based on information related to the first delay time and information related to the second delay time, a switching process is determined to be performed.

3. The control device according to claim 2, wherein When the second delay time is shorter than the first delay time, the control unit determines to perform a switching process to switch the first PLMN to the second PLMN. If the first delay time is shorter than the second delay time, it is determined that the switching process of switching the second PLMN to the first PLMN will be executed.

4. The control device according to claim 2, wherein The control unit controls the timing of data transmission to be sent to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device based on the difference between the first delay time and the second delay time.

5. The control device according to claim 4, wherein The control unit delays the transmission timing of the wireless communication device with the shorter delay time among the first and second wireless communication devices according to the difference.

6. The control device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit acquires information related to the first data rate in data communication with the first wireless communication device, and information related to the second data rate in data communication with the second wireless communication device; and Based on information related to the first data rate and information related to the second data rate, a switching process is determined to be performed.

7. The control device according to claim 6, wherein When the second data rate is greater than the first data rate, the control unit determines to perform a switching process to switch the first PLMN to the second PLMN; and When the first data rate is greater than the second data rate, a switching process is performed to switch the second PLMN to the first PLMN.

8. The control device according to claim 6, wherein The control unit controls the data rate of the data to be transmitted to either the first wireless communication device or the second wireless communication device based on the difference or ratio between the first data rate and the second data rate.

9. The control device according to claim 8, wherein The control unit limits the maximum data rate of the wireless communication device with the larger data rate of the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device.

10. The control device according to claim 9, wherein The control unit limits the maximum data rate to a data rate corresponding to the difference or ratio.

11. The control device according to claim 1, wherein When the control unit determines to perform a handover process to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, it instructs the first wireless communication device to perform the handover process via the first base station device belonging to the first PLMN. When it is determined to perform a handover process to switch from the second PLMN to the first PLMN, the second wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via the second base station device belonging to the second PLMN.

12. A control method, comprising: Information related to the first communication is obtained from a first wireless communication device that performs data communication for the first application via a first PLMN. The information related to the first communication includes the location information of the first wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the first application, and information for identifying the first PLMN. Information related to the second communication is obtained from a second wireless communication device that performs data communication for the second application via a second PLMN. This information includes the location information of the second wireless communication device, information for identifying the process of the second application, and information for identifying the second PLMN. Based on the information related to the first communication and the information related to the second communication, it is determined that a handover process will be performed to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of another wireless communication device. The control method further includes, for the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device, when the location information is within a set range, the process of the first application and the process of the second application are the same, and the first PLMN and the second PLMN are different, determining to perform a switching process to switch the PLMN of one wireless communication device to the PLMN of the other wireless communication device.

13. The control method according to claim 12 further includes: When it is determined to perform a handover process to switch from the first PLMN to the second PLMN, the first wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via the first base station device belonging to the first PLMN. and When it is determined to perform a handover process to switch from the second PLMN to the first PLMN, the second wireless communication device is instructed to perform the handover process via the second base station device belonging to the second PLMN.

Images