Handover of satellite in fixed radio cell
By optimizing satellite selection and handover in fixed radio cell networks through user equipment and satellite network entities, interference and congestion problems in satellite networks are resolved, and communication quality and reliability are improved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2021-08-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-24
AI Technical Summary
In wireless communication networks, especially satellite networks, existing technologies struggle to effectively manage interference and congestion, leading to a decline in communication performance, particularly during satellite handover.
By selecting and switching satellites in the fixed radio cell network through user equipment (UE), performing cell reselection and establishing radio connections, and utilizing satellite network entities for satellite handover management, the satellite selection and handover process is optimized.
It improves communication quality and reliability in satellite networks, reduces interference and congestion, and enhances user experience.
Smart Images

Figure CN116134902B_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-reference to related applications
[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 444,559, filed August 5, 2021, entitled “SWITCHING SATELLITES IN FIXED RADIO,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 062,351, filed August 6, 2020, entitled “SWITCHING SATELLITES IN FIXED RADIO,” the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0003] This disclosure generally relates to wireless communication systems, and more specifically to satellite and non-terrestrial networks. Certain embodiments of the techniques discussed below can implement and provide enhanced satellite selection and handover. Background Technology
[0004] Wireless communication networks are widely deployed to provide various communication services such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, and broadcasting. These wireless networks can be multiple access networks capable of supporting multiple users by sharing available network resources. Typically, such networks are multiple access networks that support communication for multiple users by sharing available network resources.
[0005] A wireless communication network may include multiple base stations or nodes B that can support communication between multiple user equipments (UEs). UEs can communicate with base stations via downlinks and uplinks. A downlink (or forward link) refers to the communication link from the base station to the UE, and an uplink (or reverse link) refers to the communication link from the UE to the base station.
[0006] The base station can send data and control information to the UE on the downlink and / or receive data and control information from the UE on the uplink. On the downlink, transmissions from the base station may be interfered with by transmissions from neighboring base stations or other radio frequency (RF) transmitters. On the uplink, transmissions from the UE may encounter interference from uplink transmissions from other UEs communicating with neighboring base stations or from other RF transmitters. This interference may degrade downlink and uplink performance.
[0007] With the increasing demand for mobile broadband access, and with more and more user units (UEs) accessing long-range wireless communication networks and more and more short-range wireless systems deployed in communities, the possibility of network interference and congestion is also increasing. Research and development to continuously advance wireless technologies is not only to meet the growing demand for mobile broadband access, but also to improve and enhance the user experience of mobile communications. Summary of the Invention
[0008] The following summarizes some aspects of this disclosure to provide a basic understanding of the techniques discussed. This overview is not a comprehensive summary of all anticipated features of this disclosure, and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of all aspects of this disclosure, nor to describe the scope of any or all aspects of this disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects of this disclosure in summary form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.
[0009] In one aspect of this disclosure, a wireless communication method includes operation by a user equipment (UE) in a network having fixed radio cells. The method further includes the UE determining a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite. The method includes the UE performing cell reselection to select a cell associated with a second satellite using selection criteria. The method also includes the UE establishing a connection with the second satellite for paging surveillance or wireless communication.
[0010] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to operate in a network having fixed radio cells; determine a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; perform cell reselection to select a cell associated with a second satellite using selection criteria; and establish a connection with the second satellite for paging surveillance or wireless communication.
[0011] In another aspect, a wireless communication method includes a satellite network entity operating and serving a first cell ID and a first tracking area code (TAC) ID in a fixed radio cell network together with a specific user equipment (UE); the satellite network entity sending a satellite handover message to the specific UE based on determining to hand over the specific UE to a second satellite; and the satellite network entity handing over the specific UE to the second satellite.
[0012] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to operate with a specific user equipment (UE) and serve a first cell ID and a first tracking area code (TAC) ID in a fixed radio cell network; to send a satellite handover message to the specific UE based on a determination to hand over the specific UE to a second satellite; and to hand over the specific UE to the second satellite.
[0013] In another aspect, a wireless communication method includes a user equipment (UE) operating in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells; the UE determining a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; the UE performing cell reselection to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and the UE establishing a wireless connection with the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0014] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes units for operation by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state within a network having fixed radio cells; units for determining by the UE a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; units for the UE to perform cell reselection to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and units for the UE to establish a wireless connection with the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0015] In another aspect of this disclosure, there is a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program code recorded thereon. The program code further includes code for performing the following operations: by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells; by the UE determining a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; by the UE performing cell reselection to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and by the UE establishing a radio connection with the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0016] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to operate by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells; to determine by the UE a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; to perform cell reselection by the UE to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and to establish a wireless connection between the UE and the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0017] In one aspect of this disclosure, a wireless communication method includes: a user equipment (UE) operating in an RRC idle state in a network having fixed radio cells; the UE determining a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; the UE performing cell reselection to select a second satellite using selection conditions; and the UE establishing a wireless connection with the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0018] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes units for operation by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state within a network having fixed radio cells; units for determining by the UE a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; units for performing cell reselection by the UE to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and units for establishing a wireless connection between the UE and the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0019] In another aspect of this disclosure, there is a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program code recorded thereon. The program code further includes code for performing the following operations: by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells; by the UE determining a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; by the UE performing cell reselection to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and by the UE establishing a radio connection with the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0020] In another aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus configured for wireless communication is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to operate by a user equipment (UE) in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells; to determine by the UE a plurality of potential satellites for selecting a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; to perform cell reselection by the UE to select a second satellite using selection criteria; and to establish a wireless connection between the UE and the second satellite for wireless communication.
[0021] In another aspect of this disclosure, a wireless communication method includes a user equipment (UE) operating with a first satellite in an RRC connection state, the UE operating in a fixed radio cell network, in a first cell ID and with a first TAC ID; the UE receiving a satellite handover message for the first satellite; the UE determining a second satellite based on the satellite handover message; and the UE handing over to the second satellite.
[0022] In another aspect of this disclosure, a wireless communication method includes: a satellite network entity operating in an RRC connection state with a specific user equipment (UE) and serving a first cell ID and a first TACID in a fixed radio cell network; the satellite network entity determining to hand over the specific UE to a second satellite; the satellite network entity sending a satellite handover message to the specific UE based on the determination to hand over the specific UE to the second satellite; and the network entity handing over the specific UE to the second satellite.
[0023] Other aspects, features, and embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reviewing the following description of specific exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. While features may be discussed with respect to certain aspects and the drawings below, all embodiments may include one or more advantageous features discussed herein. In other words, while one or more aspects may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more such features may also be used depending on the aspects. Similarly, while exemplary aspects may be discussed below as aspects of an apparatus, system, or method, exemplary aspects may be implemented in various apparatuses, systems, and methods. Attached Figure Description
[0024] The nature and advantages of this disclosure can be further understood with reference to the following figures. In the figures, similar components or features may have the same reference numerals. Furthermore, various components of the same type can be distinguished by adding a dash after the reference numeral and a second label to differentiate similar components. If only the first reference numeral is used in the description, the description applies to any similar component having the same first reference numeral, regardless of the second reference numeral.
[0025] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating the details of a wireless communication system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 2 This is a conceptual block diagram illustrating the design of a base station and a UE configured according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0027] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a satellite coverage of a fixed radio cell.
[0028] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system (with a UE and a base station) that has satellite selection operation.
[0029] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating example blocks performed by a UE configured according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0030] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another example of a block performed by a UE configured according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0031] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating example blocks performed by a base station configured according to aspects of this disclosure.
[0032] Figure 8 This is a conceptual block diagram illustrating the design of a UE configured to perform a precoded information update operation according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0033] Figure 9 This is a conceptual block diagram illustrating the design of a base station configured to perform precoded information update operations according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation
[0034] The detailed description given below, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, is intended to describe various configurations and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Rather, the detailed description includes specific details in order to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details are not necessary in every case, and in some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form for clarity of expression.
[0035] This disclosure generally relates to providing or participating in authorized shared access between two or more wireless devices in one or more wireless communication systems (also referred to as wireless communication networks). In various embodiments, these techniques and apparatuses can be used in wireless communication networks such as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) networks, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) networks, Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) networks, Orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA) networks, Single Carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA) networks, LTE networks, GSM networks, 5th Generation (5G) or New Radio (NR) networks (sometimes referred to as “5G NR” networks / systems / devices), and other communication networks. As described herein, the terms “network” and “system” are used interchangeably.
[0036] For example, CDMA networks can implement radio technologies such as Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) and CDMA2000. UTRA includes Wideband CDMA (W-CDMA) and Low Chip Rate (LCR). CDMA2000 covers the IS-2000, IS-95, and IS-856 standards.
[0037] For example, TDMA networks can implement radio technologies such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM). The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) defines the standard for the GSM EDGE (Enhanced Data Rate for GSM Evolution) Radio Access Network (RAN) (also referred to as GERAN). GERAN is the radio component of GSM / EDGE, along with the network connecting base stations (e.g., Ater and Abis interfaces) and base station controllers (A interface, etc.). The radio access network represents a component of the GSM network through which telephone calls and packet data are routed to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and the Internet, and then to the subscriber's mobile phone, also known as the user terminal or user equipment (UE). A mobile phone operator's network may include one or more GERANs, which, in the case of UMTS / GSM networks, may be coupled to the Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN). Additionally, an operator's network may include one or more LTE networks, and / or one or more other networks. Different network types can use different Radio Access Technologies (RATs) and Radio Access Networks (RANs).
[0038] OFDMA networks can implement radio technologies such as evolved UTRA (E-UTRA), IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.16, IEEE 802.20, and flash-OFDM. UTRA, E-UTRA, and GSM are part of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). Specifically, Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a version of UMTS using E-UTRA. UTRA, E-UTRA, GSM, UMTS, and LTE are described in documents provided by an organization called the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), while cdma2000 is described in documents provided by an organization called the 3rd Generation Partnership Project 2 (3GPP2). These different radio technologies and standards are known or under development. For example, 3GPP is a collaboration between telecommunications associations aimed at defining globally applicable third-generation (3G) mobile phone specifications. 3GPP Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a 3GPP project aimed at improving the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) handphone standard. 3GPP defines specifications for next-generation mobile networks, mobile systems, and mobile devices. This disclosure may refer to LTE, 4G, or 5G NR technologies to describe certain aspects; however, this description is not intended to be limited to any particular technology or application, and one or more aspects described with reference to one technology may be understood to be applicable to another technology. In fact, one or more aspects of this disclosure relate to shared access to radio spectrum between networks using different radio access technologies or radio air interfaces.
[0039] 5G networks consider multiple deployments, multiple spectrums, and multiple services and devices, which can be achieved using a unified air interface based on OFDM. To achieve these goals, in addition to developing new radio technologies for 5G NR networks, further enhancements to LTE and LTE-A are also considered. 5G NR will be able to extend to provide coverage (1) to ultra-high densities (e.g., approximately 1 meganode / km). 2 (1) Ultra-low complexity (e.g., approximately 10 bits / second), ultra-low power consumption (e.g., battery life of approximately 10 years or more), and deep coverage capable of reaching challenging locations; (2) Mission-critical controls with robust security to protect sensitive personal, financial, or confidential information, ultra-high reliability (e.g., ~99.9999% reliability), ultra-low latency (e.g., approximately 1 millisecond (ms)), and a wide range of users, whether mobile or not; and (3) Enhanced mobile broadband, including extremely high capacity (e.g., approximately 10 Tbps / km). 2 Extreme data rates (e.g., multi-Gbps rates, 100+Mbps user experience rates), and deep awareness through advanced discovery and optimization.
[0040] 5G NR devices, networks, and systems can be implemented using optimized OFDM-based waveform characteristics. These characteristics may include scalable digital schemes and transmission time intervals (TTIs); a general, flexible framework for efficiently multiplexing services and functions through dynamic, low-latency Time Division Duplex (TDD) / Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) designs; and advanced wireless technologies such as massive MIMO, robust millimeter-wave (mmWave) transmission, advanced channel coding, and device-centric mobility. The scalability of digital schemes in 5G NR, along with the expansion of subcarrier spacing, can effectively address operational challenges across different spectrums and deployments for different services. For example, in various outdoor and macro coverage deployments implemented with FDD / TDD below 3 GHz, subcarrier spacing may occur at 15 kHz, such as over bandwidths of 1, 5, 10, and 20 MHz. For other various outdoor and small cell coverage deployments with TDD above 3 GHz, subcarrier spacing may occur at 30 kHz over an 80 / 100 MHz bandwidth. For various other indoor broadband implementations using TDD in the unlicensed portion of the 5 GHz band, subcarrier spacing may occur at 60 kHz over a 160 MHz bandwidth. Finally, for various deployments using millimeter-wave components for TDD transmission at 28 GHz, subcarrier spacing may occur at 120 kHz over a 500 MHz bandwidth.
[0041] 5G NR's scalable digital schemes facilitate scalable TTIs to meet diverse latency and Quality of Service (QoS) requirements. For example, shorter TTIs can be used for low latency and high reliability, while longer TTIs can be used for higher spectral efficiency. Efficient multiplexing of long and short TTIs allows transmissions to begin at symbol boundaries. 5G NR also considers a self-contained integrated subframe design, containing uplink / downlink scheduling information, data, and acknowledgments within the same subframe. This self-contained integrated subframe supports communication in unlicensed or contention-based shared spectrum, and adaptive uplink / downlink can be flexibly configured on a per-cell basis to dynamically switch between uplink and downlink to meet current traffic demands.
[0042] For clarity, certain aspects of the devices and technologies may be described below with reference to example 5G NR implementations or in a 5G-centric manner, and 5G terminology may be used as illustrative examples in the sections described below; however, this description is not intended to be limited to 5G applications.
[0043] Furthermore, it should be understood that, in operation, wireless communication networks adapted according to the concepts herein can operate in any combination of licensed or unlicensed spectrum, depending on load and availability. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be applied to other communication systems and applications besides the specific examples provided.
[0044] While aspects and implementations are described herein by way of example, those skilled in the art will understand that additional implementations and use cases may arise in many different arrangements and scenarios. The innovations described herein can be implemented across many different platform types, devices, systems, shapes, sizes, and package arrangements. For example, embodiments and / or uses may be implemented through integrated chip embodiments and / or other devices based on non-modular components (e.g., end-user devices, vehicles, communication devices, computing devices, industrial devices, retail / purchasing devices, medical devices, artificial intelligence devices, etc.). While some examples may or may not be specific to a particular use case or application, broad applicability of the described innovations is possible. Implementations can range from chip-level or modular components to non-modular, non-chip-level implementations, and further to aggregated, distributed, or OEM devices or systems incorporating one or more of the described aspects. In some practical settings, devices incorporating the described aspects and features may also necessarily include additional components and features for implementing and practicing the claimed and described embodiments. The innovations intended to be described herein can be practiced in a wide range of implementations, including large / small devices of different sizes, shapes, and constructions, chip-level components, multi-component systems (e.g., RF chains, communication interfaces, processors), distributed arrangements, end-user devices, etc.
[0045] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating details of an example wireless communication system. The wireless communication system may include a wireless network 100. Wireless network 100 may, for example, include a 5G wireless network. As those skilled in the art will understand, Figure 1 The components appearing in this may have corresponding counterparts in other network arrangements, including, for example, cellular network arrangements and non-cellular network arrangements (e.g., device-to-device, peer-to-peer, or self-organizing network arrangements).
[0046] Figure 1 The wireless network 100 shown includes multiple base stations 105 and other network entities. Base stations can be stations communicating with UEs and can also be referred to as evolved Node Bs (eNBs), next-generation eNBs (gNBs), access points, etc. Each base station 105 can provide communication coverage for a specific geographic area. In 3GPP, the term "cell" can refer to this specific geographic coverage area of the base station and / or the base station subsystem serving that coverage area, depending on the context in which the term is used. In the implementation of the wireless network 100 herein, base stations 105 can be associated with the same operator or different operators (e.g., the wireless network 100 may include multiple operator wireless networks). Additionally, in the implementation of the wireless network 100 herein, base stations 105 can use one or more of the same frequencies (e.g., licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or combinations thereof) as neighboring cells to provide wireless communication. In some examples, a single base station 105 or UE 115 can be operated by more than one network operating entity. In some other examples, each base station 105 and UE 115 can be operated by a single network operating entity.
[0047] Base stations can provide communication coverage for macro cells or small cells (e.g., pico cells or femto cells, and / or other types of cells). Macro cells typically cover a relatively large geographic area (e.g., a radius of several kilometers) and can allow unrestricted access for UEs with service subscriptions to a network provider. Small cells, such as pico cells, typically cover a relatively small geographic area and can allow unrestricted access for UEs with service subscriptions to a network provider. Small cells, such as femto cells, will also typically cover a relatively small geographic area (e.g., a home) and, in addition to unrestricted access, can provide restricted access for UEs associated with the femto cell (e.g., UEs in a Closed Subscriber Group (CSG), UEs of home users, etc.). A base station used for a macro cell can be called a macro base station. A base station used for a small cell can be called a small cell base station, pico base station, femto base station, or home base station. Figure 1In the example shown, base stations 105d and 105e are conventional macro base stations, while base stations 105a-105c are macro base stations supporting one of 3D, full-dimensional (FD), or massive MIMO. Base stations 105a-105c utilize their higher-dimensional MIMO capabilities to increase coverage and capacity through 3D beamforming in elevation and azimuth beamforming. Base station 105f is a small cell base station that can be a home node or a portable access point. A base station can support one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) cells.
[0048] Wireless Network 100 can support synchronous or asynchronous operation. For synchronous operation, base stations can have similar frame timings, and transmissions from different base stations can be roughly aligned in time. For asynchronous operation, base stations may have different frame timings, and transmissions from different base stations may not be aligned in time. In some cases, the network can be enabled or configured to handle dynamic switching between synchronous and asynchronous operation.
[0049] UE 115 is distributed throughout the wireless network 100, and each UE can be fixed or mobile. It should be understood that while mobile devices are generally referred to as User Equipment (UE) in 3GPP standards and specifications, such devices may additionally or otherwise be referred to by those skilled in the art as mobile station (MS), user station, mobile unit, user unit, radio unit, remote unit, mobile device, radio device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile user station, access terminal (AT), mobile terminal, radio terminal, remote terminal, handphone, terminal, user agent, mobile client, client, gaming device, augmented reality device, vehicle component device / module, or some other suitable term. In this document, a “mobile” device or UE does not necessarily have mobility capabilities and may be stationary. Some non-limiting examples of mobile devices may include implementations of one or more UE 115, including mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, laptop computers, personal computers (PCs), netbooks, smartbooks, tablets, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Mobile devices can also be “Internet of Things” (IoT) or “Internet of Everything” (IoE) devices, such as automobiles or other vehicles, satellite radios, Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, logistics controllers, drones, multi-rotor aircraft, quadcopters, smart energy or security devices, solar panels or solar arrays, municipal lighting, water or other infrastructure; industrial automation and enterprise equipment; consumer and wearable devices, such as glasses, wearable cameras, smartwatches, health or fitness trackers, mammalian implantable devices, gesture tracking devices, medical devices, digital audio players (e.g., MP3 players), cameras, game consoles, etc.; and digital home or smart home devices, such as home audio, video and multimedia equipment, appliances, sensors, vending machines, smart lighting, home security systems, smart meters, etc. On one hand, a UE can be a device that includes a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC). On the other hand, a UE can be a device that does not include a UICC. In some respects, a UE that does not include a UICC can also be referred to as an IoE device. Figure 1 The UEs 115a-115d shown are examples of mobile smartphone-type devices accessing the wireless network 100. The UE can also be a machine specifically configured for connectivity communications, including Machine Type Communication (MTC), Enhanced MTC (eMTC), Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), and so on. Figure 1 The UE 115e-115k shown is an example of various machines configured for accessing communications on the wireless network 100.
[0050] Mobile devices such as the UE 115 can communicate with any type of base station, whether it's a macro base station, pico base station, femto base station, or relay. Figure 1 In this context, a communication link (represented by a lightning bolt) represents a wireless transmission between the UE and a serving base station. The serving base station is designated to serve the UE on the downlink and / or uplink, or it represents the expected transmission between base stations, as well as backhaul transmission between base stations. In some cases, the UE may operate as a base station or other network node. Backhaul communication between base stations of the wireless network 100 can occur using wired and / or wireless communication links.
[0051] In the operation of wireless network 100, base stations 105a-105c use 3D beamforming and coordinated spatial technologies (such as Coordinated Multipoint (CoMP) or multiple connections) to provide services to UEs 115a and 115b. Macro base station 105d performs backhaul communication with base stations 105a-105c and small cell base station 105f. Macro base station 105d also transmits multicast services subscribed to and received by UEs 115c and 115d. Such multicast services may include mobile TV or streaming video, or may include other services for providing community information, such as weather emergencies or alerts, such as Amber Alerts or Grey Alerts.
[0052] Wireless network 100 implements mission-critical communication with highly reliable and redundant links for mission-critical equipment such as UE 115e, which is a drone. Redundant communication links with UE 115e include those from macro base stations 105d and 105e, and small cell base station 105f. Other machine-type devices such as UE 115f (thermometer), UE 115g (smart meter), and UE 115h (wearable device) can communicate directly with base stations such as small cell base station 105f and macro base station 105e via wireless network 100, or in a multi-hop configuration by communicating with another user equipment that relays its information to the network (e.g., UE 115f transmits temperature measurement information to smart meter UE 115g, which then reports it to the network via small cell base station 105f). Wireless network 100 can also provide additional network efficiency through dynamic, low-latency TDD / FDD communication, such as in vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) mesh networks between UEs 115i-115k communicating with macro base station 105e.
[0053] Figure 2 A block diagram illustrating a conceptual design of base station 105 and UE 115 is shown, which can be Figure 1 One of any base station and UE. For restricted association scenarios (as described above), base station 105 can be Figure 1In the small cell base station 105f, UE 115 can be UE 115c or 115D operating within the service area of base station 105f. To access small cell base station 105f, UE 115 will be included in the accessible UE list of small cell base station 105f. Base station 105 can also be some other type of base station. For example... Figure 2 As shown, base station 105 may be equipped with antennas 234a to 234t, and UE 115 may be equipped with antennas 252a to 252r to facilitate wireless communication.
[0054] At base station 105, transmit processor 220 can receive data from data source 212 and control information from controller / processor 240. The control information can be used for Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), Physical Control Format Indicator Channel (PCFICH), Physical Hybrid Channel ARQ (Automatic Repeat Request) Indicator Channel (PHICH), Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), Enhanced Physical Downlink Control Channel (EPDCCH), MTC Physical Downlink Control Channel (MPDCCH), etc. Data can be PDSCH, etc. Additionally, transmit processor 220 can process (e.g., encode and symbol mapping) data and control information to obtain data symbols and control symbols respectively. Transmit processor 220 can also generate reference symbols, such as for primary synchronization signal (PSS) and secondary synchronization signal (SSS), as well as cell-specific reference signals. Transmit (TX) Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) processor 230 can perform spatial processing (e.g., precoding) on data symbols, control symbols, and / or reference symbols, if applicable, and can provide output symbol streams to modulators (MODs) 232a to 232t. For example, spatial processing performed on data symbols, control symbols, or reference symbols may include precoding. Each modulator 232 may process a corresponding output symbol stream (e.g., for OFDM, etc.) to obtain an output sample stream. Each modulator 232 may additionally or alternatively process (e.g., convert to analog, amplify, filter, and up-convert) the output sample stream to obtain a downlink signal. The downlink signal from modulators 232a to 232t may be transmitted via antennas 234a to 234t, respectively.
[0055] At UE 115, antennas 252a to 252r can receive downlink signals from base station 105 and can respectively provide the received signals to demodulators (DEMODs) 254a to 254r. Each demodulator 254 can adjust (e.g., filter, amplify, downconvert, and digitize) the corresponding received signal to obtain an input sample. Each demodulator 254 can further process the input sample (e.g., for OFDM, etc.) to obtain received symbols. MIMO detector 256 can obtain the received symbols from demodulators 254a to 254r, perform MIMO detection on the received symbols if applicable, and provide the detected symbols. Receiver processor 258 can process (e.g., demodulate, deinterleave, and decode) the detected symbols, provide decoded data for UE 115 to data receiver 260, and provide decoding control information to controller / processor 280.
[0056] On the uplink, at UE 115, the transmitting processor 264 can receive and process data from data source 262 (e.g., for the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH)) and control information from controller / processor 280 (e.g., for the Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH)). Furthermore, the transmitting processor 264 can generate reference symbols for reference signals. If applicable, the symbols from the transmitting processor 264 can be pre-encoded by the TX MIMO processor 266, further processed by modulators 254a to 254r (e.g., for SC-FDM, etc.), and transmitted to base station 105. At base station 105, the uplink signal from UE 115 can be received by antenna 234, processed by demodulator 232, detected by MIMO detector 236 (if applicable), and further processed by receiving processor 238 to obtain decoded data and control information transmitted by UE 115. Processor 238 can provide decoded data to data receiver 239 and decoded control information to controller / processor 240.
[0057] Controllers / processors 240 and 280 can respectively direct the operation of base station 105 and UE 115. Controllers / processors 240 and / or other processors and modules at base station 105 and / or controllers / processors 280 and / or other processors and modules at UE 115 can perform or direct various processes that perform the techniques described herein, such as performing or directing... Figure 5-7 The execution shown herein, and / or other processes of the techniques described herein. Memory 242 and 282 may store data and program code for base station 105 and UE 115, respectively. Scheduler 244 may schedule the UE for data transmission on the downlink and / or uplink.
[0058] Wireless communication systems operated by different network operating entities (e.g., network operators) may share spectrum. In some cases, a network operating entity may be configured to use the entire designated shared spectrum for at least a certain period before another network operating entity uses the entire designated shared spectrum for a different time period. Therefore, in order to allow network operating entities to use the entire designated shared spectrum and to mitigate interference communications between different network operating entities, certain resources (e.g., time) may be allocated and distributed to different network operating entities for certain types of communication.
[0059] For example, specific time resources can be allocated to a network operating entity, reserved for its proprietary communication using the entire shared spectrum. A network operating entity can also be allocated additional time resources, whereby it is given higher priority than other network operating entities for using the shared spectrum for communication. If the prioritized network operating entity does not use these resources, those time resources can be opportunistically used by other network operating entities. Additional time resources can be allocated to any network operator for opportunistic use.
[0060] Arbitration of access to shared spectrum and time resources between different network operating entities can be centrally controlled by a single entity, determined autonomously by a predefined arbitration scheme, or dynamically determined based on the interaction between wireless nodes of the network operator.
[0061] In some cases, UE 115 and base station 105 may operate in a shared radio frequency spectrum band, which may include licensed or unlicensed (e.g., contention-based) spectrum. In the unlicensed frequency portion of the shared radio frequency spectrum band, UE 115 or base station 105 may conventionally perform a medium sensing procedure to compete for access to the spectrum. For example, UE 115 or base station 105 may perform a Listen-Before-Speak (LBT) procedure, such as a Free Channel Assessment (CCA), before communication to determine if a shared channel is available. In some implementations, CCA may include an energy detection procedure to determine if any other active transmissions are present. For example, the device may infer changes in the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of a power meter indicating channel occupancy. Specifically, a signal power concentrated in a certain bandwidth and exceeding a predetermined noise floor may indicate another wireless transmitter. CCA may also include detecting a specific sequence indicating channel usage. For example, another device may transmit a specific preamble before transmitting a data sequence. In some cases, the LBT process may involve a wireless node adjusting its backoff window based on the energy detected on the channel in response to a collision and / or as a proxy the acknowledgment / negative acknowledgment (ACK / NACK) feedback on packets it sends for itself.
[0062] Figure 3 The illustration shows an example of satellite coverage area in a fixed radio cell network. In a fixed radio cell network, such as a terrestrial network, a UE receives a specific cell ID for a specific location. Even if the network entity serving the UE may change, the UE still receives the same cell ID. For example, a first UE (UE1) can always select a first cell identifier (cell ID 1) and a first tracking area code (TAC1) for a given location. However, when satellites (e.g., non-geostationary satellites) are used to serve fixed radio cells, satellite movement causes satellites to move into and out of different cells. Therefore, satellites serve different cells at different times. This satellite handover results in device handover, such as an additional handover compared to terrestrial network entities.
[0063] Figure 3 The image shows an example of a satellite serving a radio cell. (Reference) Figure 3 , Figure 3 The image depicts satellites providing service to two communities at three different times. Figure 3 The image shows four satellites.
[0064] At the first time point (t1), the first satellite (S1) is providing services to the first cell (cell ID 1) and the first tracking area code (TAC1), while the second satellite (S2) is providing services to the second cell (cell ID 2) and the second tracking area code (TAC2). Figure 3 In the example, the first and second satellites move from left to right and are at the forefront of serving the first cell at the first moment.
[0065] Similarly, at the second time (t2), the first satellite (S1) is providing service to the first cell (cell ID 1) and the first tracking area code (TAC1), while the second satellite (S2) is providing service to the second cell (cell ID 2) and the second tracking area code (TAC2). The first and second satellites are positioned at the trailing edge of the service area for the first and second cells at the second time.
[0066] From the first time point to the second time point, the first satellite belongs to cell ID 1 and TAC1 and provides services to cell ID 1 and TAC1, while the second satellite (S2) belongs to cell ID 2 and TAC2 and provides services to cell ID 2 and TAC2.
[0067] At the third time (t3), the first and second satellites may no longer provide services to the first and second cells; the third satellite (S3) and the fourth satellite (S4) may provide services to the first and second cells respectively.
[0068] However, during such operation, the edge of a single beam will change due to beam "stretching," and UEs near or at the cell edge may move back and forth between cells and satellites. For example, at a first time t1, the first UE (UE1) can select a second cell (cell 2 and the second satellite), and at a second time t2, the first UE can select a first cell (cell 1 and the first satellite). Furthermore, at a third time t3, the first UE (UE1) can again select a second cell (cell 2).
[0069] From time t1 to t2 and / or t2 to t3, the RTD in a cell may change abruptly. For example, for UE1, at the second time, there is a round-trip delay difference between the first and second satellites. Therefore, when the first UE switches from the second cell to the first cell (and thus from the second satellite to the first satellite), the UE experiences a drastic change in RTD. This may cause the UE to miss transmissions and / or experience delayed transmissions.
[0070] However, if the first UE selects the first cell at the first time and possibly not until the third time, the first UE can reduce handover, i.e., eliminate the handover from the second cell to the first cell at the second time. Reducing handover can prevent back-and-forth between cell and network entities, and can also reduce the adjustments made by the UE. Therefore, power consumption, latency, and faults can be reduced.
[0071] In some implementations, the first satellite can provide service to the second cell. For example, at some point between a second time and a third time, the second satellite can cease providing service to the second cell and the first satellite can begin providing service to the second cell.
[0072] Figure 4 An example of a wireless communication system 400 supporting satellite selection operation according to aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. In some examples, the wireless communication system 400 may implement aspects of the wireless communication system 100. For example, the wireless communication system 400 may include a UE 115, a first network entity 105, and a second network entity 405. Network entities 105 and 405 may include or correspond to a satellite network entity. The enhanced satellite selection operation described herein can reduce power consumption and network handover by increasing the time the UE can remain attached to a satellite, and can reduce satellite handover operations. Therefore, network and device performance can be improved.
[0073] Network entities 105, 405, and UE 115 can be configured to communicate via frequency bands, such as FR1 with frequencies from 410 to 7125 MHz, FR2 with frequencies from 24250 to 52600 MHz for millimeter waves, and / or one or more other frequency bands. Note that for some data channels, the SCS may be equal to 15, 30, 60, or 120 kHz. Network entities 105, 405, and UE 115 can be configured to communicate via one or more component carriers (CCs), such as the representative first CC 481, second CC 482, third CC 483, and fourth CC 484. Although four CCs are shown, this is for illustration only, and more or fewer CCs may be used. One or more CCs can be used to communicate control channel transmissions, data channel transmissions, and / or sidelink channel transmissions.
[0074] Such transmissions may include the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH), Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH), Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH), Physical Sidelink Control Channel (PSCCH), Physical Sidelink Shared Channel (PSSCH), or Physical Sidelink Feedback Channel (PSFCH). Such transmissions can be scheduled using aperiodic granting and / or periodic granting.
[0075] Each periodic license can have a corresponding configuration, such as configuration parameters / settings. The periodic license configuration can include configured license (CG) configurations and settings. Alternatively or additionally, one or more periodic licenses (e.g., their CGs) can have or be assigned a CC ID, such as an expected CC ID.
[0076] Each CC can have a corresponding configuration, such as configuration parameters / settings. This configuration may include bandwidth, bandwidth portion, Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ) procedure, TCI status, RS, control channel resources, data channel resources, or a combination thereof. Alternatively or additionally, one or more CCs may have or be assigned a cell ID, a bandwidth portion (BWP) ID, or both. The cell ID may include a unique cell ID for the CC, a virtual cell ID, or a specific cell ID for a particular CC among multiple CCs. Alternatively or additionally, one or more CCs may have or be assigned a HARQ ID. Each CC may also have corresponding management functions, such as beam management, BWP handover functionality, or both. In some implementations, two or more CCs are quasi-co-located, such that the CCs have the same beam and / or the same symbol.
[0077] In some implementations, control information can be transmitted via network entities 105, 405, and UE 115. For example, control information can be transmitted using Media Access Control (MAC) Control Element (MAC CE) transmission, Radio Resource Control (RRC) transmission, Downlink Control Information (DCI) transmission, another transmission, or a combination thereof.
[0078] UE 115 may include various components (e.g., architecture, hardware components) for performing one or more of the functions described herein. These components may include, for example, a processor 402, a memory 404, a transmitter 410, a receiver 412, an encoder 413, a decoder 414, an RRC idle manager 415, an RRC connection manager 416, and antennas 252a-r. Processor 402 may be configured to execute instructions stored in memory 404 to perform the operations described herein. In some embodiments, processor 402 includes or corresponds to controller / processor 280, and memory 404 includes or corresponds to memory 282. Memory 404 may also be configured to store cell information data 406, satellite information data 408, beam information data 442, setting data, or combinations thereof, as further described herein.
[0079] Cell information data 406 includes or corresponds to data associated with a fixed radio cell. Cell information data 406 may include cell identifier data (e.g., cell ID), cell boundary data, tracking area code identifier data (e.g., TAC ID), cell frequency data, or a combination thereof.
[0080] Satellite information data 408 includes or corresponds to data indicating or corresponding to satellites providing service / coverage to the cell. For example, satellite information data 408 may include possible satellites that UE 115 can connect to. For illustration, satellite information data 408 may indicate multiple satellites that can provide coverage to the cell where UE 115 is located or to a cell it may soon reach. Satellite information 408 may include satellite identifiers (e.g., satellite IDs), cell service information (e.g., associated cell IDs), round-trip delay (RTD) information, timing advance (TA) information, elevation angle, angle of arrival, time-to-departure, satellite movement information, satellite location information, quality information, or combinations thereof.
[0081] Beam information data 442 includes or corresponds to data associated with beams and beam parameters. Beam information data 442 may include beam identifier data (e.g., beam ID), direction data, frequency data, beam quality data (e.g., reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), signal-to-interference ratio plus noise ratio (SINR), etc.) or combinations thereof. Beam information 442 may include beam parameters for multiple satellites and / or cells, as well as information on rapid switching between cells and / or satellites.
[0082] Selection condition data 444 includes or corresponds to data associated with or corresponding to cell and / or satellite selection (e.g., reselection) condition information. For example, selection condition data 444 may indicate one or more possible selection conditions or preferences. Selection condition data 444 may also include thresholds or data for evaluating selection conditions, such as conditions or formulas for determining thresholds.
[0083] UE 115 may optionally include setup data. Setup data includes or corresponds to data associated with satellite selection operations. Setup data may include one or more types of satellite connection and / or release operation modes and / or thresholds or conditions for switching between cells, satellites, or both. For example, setup data may have data indicating different thresholds for different satellite selection modes.
[0084] Transmitter 410 is configured to transmit data to one or more other devices, and receiver 412 is configured to receive data from one or more other devices. For example, transmitter 410 may transmit data, and receiver 412 may receive data via a network, such as a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination thereof. For example, UE 115 may be configured to transmit and / or receive data via a direct device-to-device connection, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a modem-to-modem connection, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a cable transmission system, a cellular communication network, any combination thereof, or any other communication network now known or developed hereafter that allows two or more electronic devices to communicate therein. In some implementations, transmitter 410 and receiver 412 may be replaced by transceivers. Additionally or alternatively, transmitter 410, receiver 412, or both may include or correspond to references. Figure 2 One or more components of the UE 115 described.
[0085] Encoder 413 and decoder 414 can be configured to encode and decode data for transmission. RRC Idle Manager 415 can be configured to determine and perform RRC idle management operations, such as satellite selection (e.g., reselection) operations. For example, RRC Idle Manager 415 is configured to determine and reside on a first cell and satellite. As another example, RRC Idle Manager 415 is configured to determine whether to switch to another cell and satellite.
[0086] RRC Connection Manager 416 can be configured to determine and perform RRC connection management operations. For example, RRC Connection Manager 416 can be configured to determine the satellite to connect to based on network indications. Such satellites may include or correspond to satellites that are taking over coverage of a specific cell or area because the previous satellite is moving out of range and will serve a new area or cell.
[0087] Network entities 105 and 405 include a processor 430, a memory 432, a transmitter 434, a receiver 436, an encoder 437, a decoder 438, an RRC idle manager 439, an RRC connection manager 440, and antennas 234a-t. The processor 430 can be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 432 to perform the operations described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 430 includes or corresponds to a controller / processor 240, and the memory 432 includes or corresponds to a memory 242. The memory 432 can be configured to store cell information data 406, satellite information data 408, beam information data 442, setting data, or combinations thereof, similar to UE 115 and as further described herein.
[0088] Transmitter 434 is configured to transmit data to one or more other devices, while receiver 436 is configured to receive data from one or more other devices. For example, transmitter 434 may transmit data, and receiver 436 may receive data via a network, such as a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination thereof. For example, network entities 105, 405 may be configured to transmit and / or receive data via a direct device-to-device connection, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a modem-to-modem connection, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a cable transmission system, a cellular communication network, any combination thereof, or any other communication network now known or developed hereafter that allows two or more electronic devices to communicate therein. In some embodiments, transmitter 434 and receiver 436 may be replaced by a transceiver. Additionally or alternatively, transmitter 434, receiver 436, or both may include or correspond to references. Figure 2 One or more components of network entities 105 and 405 are described.
[0089] Encoder 437 and decoder 438 may include the same functionality as described with reference to encoder 413 and decoder 414, respectively. RRC idle manager 439 may include similar functionality as described with reference to RRC idle manager 415. RRC connection manager 440 may include similar functionality as described with reference to RRC connection manager 416.
[0090] During operation of the wireless communication system 400, the first network entity 105 may determine that the UE 115 has satellite selection capability. For example, the UE 115 may send a message 448 including a satellite selection indicator 490 (e.g., a cell selection indicator). The indicator 490 may indicate satellite selection operation capability or a specific type or mode of satellite selection operation. In some implementations, the first network entity 105 sends control information to instruct the UE 115 to use satellite selection operation and / or a specific type of satellite selection operation. For example, in some embodiments, message 448 (or another message, such as configuration transmission 450) is sent by the first network entity 105. Configuration transmission 450 may include or instruct settings for using satellite selection operation or adjusting or implementing a specific type of satellite selection operation.
[0091] During operation, the devices of the wireless communication system 400 perform satellite selection operations. For example, the first network entity 105 and UE 115 exchange transmissions to set specific satellite and / or cell configurations. Such transmissions may include or correspond to System Information Block (SIB) transmissions. Figure 4 In this example, the first network entity 105 sends (e.g., broadcasts) one or more SIB messages 452. The UE 115 may receive one or more SIB messages 452. The SIB message 452 may include or correspond to an SIB1 or SIB2 message. The SIB message 452 may include information enabling the UE 115 to select the first network entity 105 and reside on it. The UE 115 may be in or may enter an RRC idle state.
[0092] When in RRC idle state, UE 115 monitors for short messages or paging messages. For example, first network entity 105 may broadcast or send short messages or paging messages to UE 115. Short messages or paging messages can keep UE 115 in its RRC idle state and / or keep it camped on the cell associated with first network entity 105.
[0093] If UE 115 has data to send to the network or another device, UE 115 may optionally enter the RRC connected state. For example, UE 115 may perform a RACH operation with the first network entity 105 and transition to the RRC connected state. The RACH operation may include a 2-step RACH operation, a 4-step RACH operation, or other types of RACH operation. In such an implementation, if UE 115 stops having data to send and / or receive, UE 115 may transition back to the RRC idle state.
[0094] After UE 115 has camped on a network entity, UE 115 can perform a cell reselection operation. UE 115 can use one or more selection conditions (such as cell / satellite reselection conditions) of selection condition data 444 to select another cell and / or satellite to connect to.
[0095] For example, when operating in an RRC-unconnected state or mode such as RRC idle, UE 115 can select a specific incoming satellite from multiple satellites in an overlapping coverage area. When selecting a satellite to connect to, one or more of the following conditions may be considered: expiry time condition, satellite movement condition, elevation difference condition (e.g., time and distance difference), angle of arrival difference condition, frequency information condition, quality increment condition, network trigger signal condition, or a combination thereof. In such an implementation, a satellite can take over a new cell that is one or more cell diameters away from the old cell it previously served.
[0096] Expiration time conditions can include conditions or preferences for selecting a satellite with the latest or later entry time into the future expiration (or maturity) period, i.e., the time during which the satellite will no longer serve a specific cell. This expiration time condition corresponds to the longest or longer duration of service for the specific cell where the UE resides. This time duration can be referred to as the service duration or expiration duration. If the UE attaches to a cell and satellite with the latest expiration time, the UE may reduce handover activity and extend the duration of connection to the satellite. Therefore, operation and efficiency are improved.
[0097] For example, each cell broadcasts a satellite ID and its corresponding expiration time. The UE then compares the expiration times and selects the latest time or the longest duration. For example, if the UE is near a cell boundary and / or in a coverage area served by two or more cells and / or satellites, the UE receives multiple messages including satellite information and expiration time information. The UE then compares the expiration times to select the satellite with the latest or longest duration. Optionally, the UE may receive information indicating the expiration time (e.g., satellite location, speed, direction of movement, etc.), and the UE calculates the expiration time for each satellite. Similarly, the UE then compares the expiration times to select the satellite with the latest or longest duration.
[0098] The UE can perform such expiration determination on a per-satellite or per-cell basis. For example, the UE can compare the expiration times of multiple satellites within a single cell. As another example, the UE can compare one (or more) satellites across multiple cells. If two optimal cells belong to different satellites, the UE selects the cell based on its expiration time, i.e., choosing the cell / satellite with the longer expiration time. The expiration time condition can be used in conjunction with one or more of the following conditions. Furthermore, the expiration time can be a preference used in weighted calculations or threshold conditions. For example, only satellites with a latest expiration time within X seconds based on one or more of the following conditions are considered.
[0099] Satellite movement conditions may include conditions or preferences for selecting satellites based on beam control patterns, which are determined based on satellite movement information such as satellite position, speed, and direction of movement. For example, the UE receives a message with satellite information or tracks satellite movement from past transmissions. The UE then determines the elevation angle of the satellite and the cell. The UE can then manipulate its antenna to move back and forth between the two satellites to connect to one or more cells.
[0100] Quality increment conditions (changes in quality conditions) can include conditions or preferences for selecting a cell or remaining (maintaining connection) in the current serving cell as long as the serving cell's metrics are not worse than another cell's, reaching a threshold (i.e., increment). Quality metrics can include or correspond to RSRP, RSRQ, SINR, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, quality metrics can include or correspond to RTD, TA, elevation angle, or combinations thereof. For example, if the current or previous serving cell's metric value is 10, and another cell (the other highest-performing cell) has a value of 14, then with an increment value of 5, the UE will maintain attachment or attempt to connect to the serving cell. The increment value or threshold can be set by the network and indicated to the UE via an RRC message.
[0101] Prior knowledge conditions may include conditions or preferences for cell selection based on the UE's location and frequency. The UE may have previously received frequency information about the cell or a specific portion of a cell. For example, the UE may receive frequency information (e.g., a frequency map or supported frequency range) in system messages such as SIBs (e.g., SIB1 or SIB2). Alternatively, system messages may indicate which cell IDs and frequencies can be selected, regardless of the UE's location within the cell's coverage area.
[0102] In such an implementation, the UE can determine whether it has moved. For example, the UE can track its position and / or speed and direction to determine if a location change has occurred. If the UE has changed its location, for example, if the change exceeds a threshold, the UE can select a cell of a different satellite than the one currently serving it.
[0103] Last cell priority conditions may include conditions or preferences for selecting a cell (and satellite) based on the cell ID of the satellite the UE last connected to (e.g., in an RRC connection state). This preference for cell selection may also involve threshold or incremental conditions. For example, the UE may select a cell as long as it is not significantly worse than another cell (another highest-performing cell) by a threshold. Quality metrics may include similar metrics as described above regarding quality increment conditions.
[0104] The conditions for network indications may include conditions or preferences for selecting a cell, satellite, or both based on network signaling. For example, a UE receives a paging indication (e.g., a paging message or short message) from a current or previous satellite, instructing the UE to monitor or connect to a new satellite at a specific (e.g., a new or different elevation angle). The UE can then use this new elevation angle (e.g., elevation information) to connect to or track the satellite. The paging indication can be transmitted via DCI. This DCI can be sent without a corresponding PDSCH transmission (i.e., the DCI may not signal the PDSCH transmission).
[0105] In some implementations, UE 115 determines a first expiration time for a first satellite among a plurality of potential satellites, determines a second expiration time for a second satellite among a plurality of potential satellites, and compares the first expiration time and the second expiration time to determine the longest expiration time, wherein the selected satellite has the longest expiration time.
[0106] In some implementations, UE 115 determines a first satellite position and a first satellite velocity of a first satellite, determines the elevation angle, RTD, or both of the first satellite based on the first satellite position and the first satellite velocity, and determines a first beam control mode of the first satellite based on the elevation angle, RTD, or both. UE 115 also determines a second satellite position and a second satellite velocity of a second satellite, determines the elevation angle, RTD, or both of the second satellite based on the second satellite position and the second satellite velocity, and determines a second beam control mode of the second satellite based on the elevation angle, RTD, or both. The first and second beam control modes can then be used to switch between the first and second satellites to monitor paging messages prior to cell reselection.
[0107] In some implementations, UE 115 determines a first satellite position and a first satellite velocity of a first satellite, determines the angle of arrival (Angle of Arrival), RTD, or both of the first satellite based on the first satellite position and the first satellite velocity, and determines a first beam control mode of the first satellite based on the angle of arrival, RTD, or both. UE 115 also determines a second satellite position and a second satellite velocity of a second satellite, determines the angle of arrival (Angle of Arrival), RTD, or both of the second satellite based on the second satellite position and the second satellite velocity, and determines a beam control mode of the second satellite based on the angle of arrival, RTD, or both. The beam control mode of the satellite can then be used to switch between the first and second satellites to monitor paging messages prior to cell reselection.
[0108] In some implementations, UE 115 determines a first quality metric for a first satellite, where the first satellite corresponds to the UE's current serving cell, determines a second quality metric for a second satellite, and compares the difference between the first and second quality metrics with a quality threshold. Quality metrics include RSRP, RSRQ, SINR, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the value of the quality threshold (e.g., an increment) may be based on the difference in elevation or arrival angle of the satellite during the cell coverage period. Based on the comparison result, UE 115 selects a satellite. For example, if the first quality metric is not less than the second quality metric reaching the threshold, UE 115 remains on the first satellite. If the first quality metric is less than the second quality metric reaching a value greater than the threshold, UE 115 switches to the second satellite.
[0109] In some implementations, UE 115 receives SIB messages including multiple frequencies of the cell from a first satellite, determines the UE's current location, and determines a frequency from the multiple frequencies acquired by the first satellite. UE 115 also determines changes in the UE's location or velocity and determines whether the UE has changed location (left the cell or a sub-cell of the cell). In response to determining that the UE's location change is less than a threshold, UE 115 selects / holds the first satellite, or in response to determining that the UE's location change is greater than a threshold, UE 115 selects / holds the second satellite.
[0110] In some implementations, UE 115 determines a first quality metric for the cell of a first satellite, where the first satellite corresponds to the last satellite with which the UE is in an RRC connection state, determines a second quality metric for the cell of a second satellite, and compares the difference between the first and second quality metrics with a priority threshold. UE 115 also determines to select the second satellite as the selected satellite based on the difference being greater than or equal to the priority threshold. Alternatively, UE 115 may select / maintain the first satellite based on the difference being less than or equal to the priority threshold.
[0111] In some implementations, UE 115 receives a network-triggered message to connect to the second satellite. UE 115 then connects to the second satellite. Alternatively, UE 115 monitors the second satellite to receive paging messages but does not connect to the second satellite.
[0112] During or before some such selection and handover operations, UE 115 may exchange transmissions with multiple network entities (e.g., 105, 405) to obtain information used during the cell reselection process. For example, UE 115 may determine cell information 406, satellite information 408, and / or beam information 442 from the transmissions. For illustration, UE 115 may receive short messages or paging messages 456 from multiple network entities 105 and 405, which may indicate cell information (e.g., cell ID) and satellite information (e.g., satellite ID). UE 115 may determine beam information from the short message or paging message 456, such as which beam each satellite uses, the timing of each satellite, etc.
[0113] When monitoring such short messages or paging messages 456, UE 115 may need to adjust its beam parameters and timing settings. For example, when monitoring a first network entity 105 and another specific beam, UE 115 may use one specific beam (e.g., direction, frequency, and / or shape) and / or timing, and / or when monitoring a second network entity 405, UE 115 may use another specific beam and / or timing. UE 115 may monitor each network entity during a paging timing or window. In some implementations, paging timings or windows may overlap or occur, making it impossible for UE 115 to adjust its beam settings and timing quickly enough to listen for sequential paging timings from two network entities. In such implementations, UE 115 and one or more network entities may adjust their operations to accommodate UE 115 adjustments for monitoring paging messages 456 from two network entities.
[0114] For example, when a new satellite takes over a cell or when UE 115 performs cell reselection, UE 115 may be adjusting its beam, uplink / downlink timing due to changes in RTD or beam reselection.
[0115] If the paging opportunity falls within that time period (e.g., a time slot), the paging message 456 can be delayed by the network to prevent UE 115 from missing the paging opportunity. The paging message 456 can be delayed in one or more ways. The paging message 456 can be delayed and sent by a specific satellite and cell at the next paging opportunity, the paging message 456 can be retransmitted by the specific satellite and cell, and / or the paging can be sent by two satellites covering the same cell. In such an implementation, for example, if both satellites are sending, if UE 115 cannot complete the handover to the paging opportunity, UE 115 will complete monitoring of the paging opportunity of the first satellite before switching to the new satellite.
[0116] In some implementations, UE 115 receives a paging instruction from a first satellite to monitor a new satellite at a different elevation angle, the new satellite corresponding to a second satellite.
[0117] In some implementations, UE 115 adjusts the beam (e.g., modifies or selects), uplink timing, downlink timing, RTD, or a combination thereof.
[0118] In some implementations, UE 115 determines that beam selection or adjustment with the second satellite will cease before the first paging opportunity with the first satellite, and monitors paging messages during the first paging opportunity with the second satellite.
[0119] In some other implementations, UE 115 determines that beam selection or adjustment with a second satellite will occur during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite, and monitors paging messages during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite before selecting the cell of the second satellite.
[0120] In some other implementations, UE 115 monitors the first paging message during a first paging event and monitors the second paging message during a second paging event, different from the first paging event. UE 115 can receive the first paging message from a first satellite and the second paging message from a second satellite.
[0121] After determining the cell and satellite to connect to, UE 115 performs RACH operation 454 with the satellite, i.e., the second network entity 405, and transitions to the RRC connection state with the second network entity 405. RACH operation 454 may include a two-step RACH operation, a four-step RACH operation, or other types of RACH operation.
[0122] When the UE is in an RRC connection state with the second network entity 405, a new network entity (e.g., a third network entity, such as a third satellite) can take over the cell, which can change the RTD and TA of the UE 115. The UE 115 can hand over or "transfer" from the second network entity 405 to the new network entity. This handover may occur due to satellite movement or a satellite ceasing service in one cell and starting service in another. The UE 115 and the second and third network entities can perform handover operations, such as handover operation 458. Handover operation 458 may include conventional handover operations, such as the transmission of one or more RRC reconfiguration messages.
[0123] In such a switchover or handover implementation, the BWP configuration may or may not change. For example, the active BWP for the second network entity 405 may be different from or the same as the active BWP for the new network entity.
[0124] In such an implementation where the BWP configuration remains unchanged, UE 115 can receive a message from the second network entity 405 to switch to a new satellite. This message can be a UE-specific signal or a group-specific signal. The message indicates that it is time for UE 115 to use the new satellite. This message (e.g., a satellite handover indication) can be DCI-based or MAC CE-based. The message may indicate or include new RTD and / or TA values for the new / next satellite.
[0125] For example, an instruction with a new TA command MAC CE can be sent to UE 115. This MAC CE can be carried by DL data via an outgoing satellite, namely the second network entity 405. As another example, when the message is a group-specific signal, a DCI can be sent using the Common Search Space (CSS) to indicate handover and / or information for handover.
[0126] In other implementations, UE 115 receives a beam switching command to indicate a switch to a new satellite (e.g., the new satellite will take over the cell's coverage). In either case (i.e., a handover message or a beam switching command), UE 115 may receive the transmission as early as Msg2 or Msg4 during the RRC connection setup procedure or RA procedure.
[0127] In some implementations, one or more HARQ processes can continue when operating with a new satellite. Additionally or alternatively, one or more timers and uplink and / or downlink scheduling can be adjusted with an offset. This offset can be used to address potential interruptions during satellite handover or due to changes in the beam direction or pointing angle of the UE 115.
[0128] In some other implementations, the BWP configuration changes when a new satellite takes over the cell. For example, when a new satellite takes over, the active BWP can be changed via a BWP handover command. The BWP handover command can be sent via the output satellite (e.g., Figure 4 The example in the second network entity 405) sends the BWP handover command (e.g., BWP handover message). The BWP handover command may further indicate or include a specific beam, RTD value, and / or TA value.
[0129] After connecting to the second network entity 405, if UE 115 stops having data to send and / or receive, or if UE 115 can choose to connect to another cell and satellite, UE 115 can transition back to the RRC idle state. For example, UE 115 can perform (e.g., re-encode) a cell reselection operation similar to that described when UE 115 switches from the first network entity 105 (and its cells) to the second network entity 405 (and its cells).
[0130] Therefore, UE 115 and network entities 105 and 405 can perform satellite selection operations more efficiently. Figure 4 Enhanced satellite and cell selection operations are described. Using enhanced satellite and cell selection operations can improve performance when operating in fixed radio cell networks. Performing enhanced satellite and cell selection operations enables reduced power consumption and network overhead during cell selection and handover operations, and thus enhances UE and network performance by increasing throughput and reducing latency.
[0131] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating example blocks performed by a UE configured according to aspects of this disclosure. It will also cover aspects such as... Figure 8 The example box is described using UE 115 shown. Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating a UE 115 configured according to one aspect of this disclosure. UE 115 includes, as follows: Figure 2 The UE 115 illustrates the structure, hardware, and components. For example, the UE 115 includes a controller / processor 280 that operates to execute logical or computer instructions stored in memory 282, and components that control the UE 115 to provide its features and functions. Under the control of the controller / processor 280, the UE 115 transmits and receives signals via radio units 800a-r and antennas 252a-r. Radio units 800a-r include various components and hardware, such as… Figure 2 As shown in UE 115, it includes a modulator / demodulator 254a-r, a MIMO detector 256, a receive processor 258, a transmit processor 264, and a TX MIMO processor 266. Figure 8As shown in the example, memory 282 stores RRC idle logic 802, RRC connection logic 803, satellite selection logic 804, satellite switching logic data 805, data 806, and setting data 807.
[0132] In block 500, wireless communication devices such as a UE operate in a network with fixed radio cells. For example, UE 115 operates in an RRC idle state in a network with fixed radio cells, as referenced. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described, a radio cell has a fixed area and / or location. In some implementations, the radio cell is fixed (e.g., permanently fixed). In other implementations, the radio cell is temporarily fixed. That is, the cell is fixed for a period of time, and then can be moved and fixed for another period of time. As another example, UE 115 operates in RRC connected state in a network with fixed radio cells, as described in Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described.
[0133] In block 501, UE 115 identifies multiple potential satellites for selecting a first cell to camp on, the first cell being associated with a first satellite. For example, UE 115 identifies multiple potential satellites to connect to a first cell and selects the first cell to camp on, as shown in reference [reference missing]. Figure 3 and 4 The first satellite is associated with a first cell. UE 115 can camp on the first satellite and monitor paging messages in an RRC idle state with the first satellite. In some implementations, UE 115 can also enter an RRC connected state with the first satellite. For example, UE 115 may have data to send (and / or receive) and can enter an RRC connected state. UE 115 can receive or signal a paging message (e.g., DCI) instructing the UE to send a transmission. When the transmission ends, UE 115 can return to or change to an RRC idle state.
[0134] In block 502, UE 115 performs cell reselection to select a cell associated with the second satellite using selection criteria. For example, UE 115 uses one or more selection criteria to select a cell associated with the second satellite to which it wants to connect, as referenced. Figure 3 and Figure 4As described. For illustration, UE 115 may employ one or more of the following conditions: satellite coverage expiry time condition, satellite movement condition, elevation difference condition (e.g., time and range difference), angle of arrival condition, frequency information condition, quality increment condition, or network trigger signal condition. The second satellite may have a different cell ID than the first satellite or the same cell ID as the first satellite. In a particular implementation, UE 115 uses the expiry time to determine which cell (and corresponding satellite) to select. The expiry time may be received from the network, for example, from the first or second satellite, or the expiry time may be determined by UE 115 (e.g., calculated).
[0135] In block 503, UE 115 establishes a connection with the second satellite for paging surveillance or wireless communication. Establishing a connection with the second satellite may include camping on the second satellite (different from the first satellite) for paging surveillance operations when the UE is in an RRC idle state. The UE can then use information determined from the paging message to connect to the second satellite and enter an RRC connected state. For example, UE 115 performs a RACH operation to connect to the second satellite, as referenced. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described, establishing a connection with the second satellite may also include restoring the connection to the second satellite for uplink transmission, downlink transmission, or both when the UE is in an RRC connection state. The UE 115 can restore the connection and send or receive data independently of sending or receiving paging messages.
[0136] In other implementations, UE 115 may perform additional blocks (or UE 115 may be configured to perform additional operations). For example, UE 115 may perform the operations described above or referenced above. Figure 6 One or more operations are described. As another example, UE 115 may operate according to one or more aspects described below.
[0137] In the first aspect, the selection condition indicates the timing information of the cell stop time, which indicates when the serving radio cell will stop serving a specific area, and the UE 115 further switches to the cell associated with the second satellite before the cell stop time.
[0138] In the second aspect, establishing a connection, either alone or in combination with the first aspect, includes: when in an RRC idle state, residing on a second satellite to perform paging and monitoring operations; and when in an RRC connected state, restoring uplink transmission, downlink transmission, or both.
[0139] In the third aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, before performing cell reselection, UE 115 further performs the following operations: monitors a first paging message from a first satellite; receives the first paging message; adjusts beam settings, round-trip delay (RTD) settings, timing advance (TA) settings, or combinations thereof; monitors a second paging message from a second satellite; and receives the second paging message.
[0140] In the fourth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the second satellite is associated with a second cell, wherein the first and second cells are the same cell.
[0141] In the fifth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the second satellite is associated with a second cell, wherein the first and second cells are different.
[0142] In a sixth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the foregoing aspects, a fixed radio cell includes a temporary fixed radio cell, wherein the temporary fixed radio cell has an operational duration in a specific area and is a quasi-earth fixed cell. In some other embodiments, a fixed radio cell includes a permanent fixed radio cell.
[0143] The seventh aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, includes the following selection conditions: satellite coverage termination time condition, satellite movement condition, elevation difference condition, angle of arrival condition, frequency information condition, signal quality change condition, network-triggered short message condition, or a combination thereof.
[0144] Eighth aspect, individually or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, selecting a cell associated with a second satellite based on selection conditions includes: the UE determining a first expiration time for a cell associated with a first potential satellite among a plurality of potential satellites; the UE determining a second expiration time for a cell associated with a second potential satellite among a plurality of potential satellites; and the UE comparing the first expiration time and the second expiration time to determine the longest expiration time, wherein the cell associated with the second satellite has the longest expiration time.
[0145] The ninth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, determines the first expiry time by: calculating the first expiry time based on the satellite and beam information of the first potential satellite.
[0146] In the tenth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, UE 115 further performs the following operation: determining when to perform measurement operations on neighboring cells based on the expiration time information of the cell associated with the second satellite.
[0147] In the eleventh aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, UE 115 further performs the following operation: receiving a system information message or a dedicated radio resource control message that indicates the expiration time information of one or more cells associated with at least one of the potential satellites.
[0148] In the twelfth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, before selecting a cell associated with the second satellite, UE 115 performs the following operation: receiving a paging instruction from the cell associated with the first satellite, the paging instruction being used to instruct monitoring of the cell associated with the new satellite, the new satellite corresponding to the second satellite.
[0149] In the thirteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, selecting the cell associated with the second satellite includes: determining that beam selection or adjustment with the second satellite will be completed before the first paging opportunity with the first satellite; and monitoring paging messages with the second satellite during the first paging opportunity.
[0150] In the fourteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the foregoing aspects, selecting a cell for the second satellite includes: determining that beam selection or adjustment with the second satellite will occur during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite; and monitoring paging messages during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite prior to selecting a cell for the second satellite.
[0151] In the fifteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, UE 115 further performs the following operations: operating in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection state with a first satellite, the UE operates in a first cell ID and with a first Tracking Area Code (TAC) ID; receiving a satellite handover message for the first satellite, the satellite handover message indicating a second satellite; and handing over to the second satellite based on satellite handover information, wherein the second satellite is selected based on the satellite handover information.
[0152] In a sixteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the foregoing aspects, the satellite handover message includes downlink control information (DCI), media access control (MAC) control element (MAC CE), or beam switching command.
[0153] In the seventeenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the satellite handover message is Msg2 (e.g., RAR message) of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure or random access (RA) procedure.
[0154] In the eighteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the satellite handover message is Msg4 (e.g., contention resolution message) of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure or random access (RA) procedure.
[0155] In the nineteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the satellite handover message is Msg2 or Msg4 of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Establishment Procedure or Random Access (RA) Procedure, and is received from the cell associated with the second satellite.
[0156] In the twentieth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, after switching to the second satellite, the hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) process of the cell associated with the first satellite continues in the cell associated with the second satellite.
[0157] In the twentieth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the foregoing aspects, the satellite handover message includes a beam switching command message, wherein the beam switching command message is a UE-specific or group-specific indication for continuing the bandwidth portion configuration in the cell associated with the second satellite.
[0158] Therefore, the UE and the base station can perform satellite selection operations. By performing satellite selection operations, throughput and reliability can be increased, and such operations can be compatible with fixed radio networks and / or equipment with reduced capabilities (e.g., less advanced).
[0159] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example block executed by a UE configured according to aspects of this disclosure. It will also cover, for example... Figure 8 The example block is described in UE 115 shown.
[0160] In block 600, a wireless communication device such as a UE operates in an RRC connection state with a first satellite, and the UE operates in a first cell ID and with a first TAC ID in a fixed radio cell network. For example, UE 115 and the first satellite are connected to each other and UE 115 is in RRC connection mode.
[0161] In block 601, UE 115 receives a satellite handover message from the first satellite. For example, UE 115 receives a message instructing the UE to connect to another satellite, as shown in reference [reference needed]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described. To illustrate, the first satellite sends a paging message, DCI transmission, or RRC message to notify of the handover via signaling.
[0162] In block 602, UE 115 determines the second satellite based on a satellite handover message. For example, UE 115 determines the handover to the second satellite based on a paging message or a handover request message, as referenced. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described, paging messages or handover request messages can indicate a satellite, cell, or both.
[0163] In box 603, UE 115 switches to the second satellite. For example, UE 115 switches to or is switched to another satellite, as referenced. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described. For illustration, the first satellite can send a paging message or an RRC reconfiguration message to the UE to facilitate the UE's connection to the second satellite. The other satellite can be associated with another cell or the same cell as the first satellite.
[0164] In other implementations, UE 115 may execute additional blocks (or UE 115 may be configured to perform additional operations). For example, UE 115 may perform one or more of the operations described above.
[0165] Therefore, the UE and the base station can perform satellite selection operations. By performing satellite selection operations, throughput and reliability can be increased, and such operations can be compatible with fixed radio networks and / or equipment with reduced capabilities (e.g., less advanced).
[0166] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example block executed by a wireless communication device configured according to another aspect of this disclosure. The example block will also relate to, as... Figure 9 The base station 105 shown is used for description. (e.g., gNB) Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating a base station 105 configured according to one aspect of this disclosure. Base station 105 includes, as shown below... Figure 2 The base station 105 illustrates the structure, hardware, and components. For example, base station 105 includes a controller / processor 240 that operates to execute logical or computer instructions stored in memory 242, and components that control the base station 105 to provide its features and functions. Under the control of the controller / processor 240, base station 105 transmits and receives signals via radio unit 901a-t and antenna 234a-t. Radio unit 901a-t includes various components and hardware, such as… Figure 2 As shown in base station 105, it includes modulator / demodulator 232a-t, MIMO detector 236, receiver processor 238, transmitter processor 220, and TX MIMO processor 230. Figure 9 As shown in the example, memory 242 stores RRC idle logic 902, RRC connection logic 903, satellite selection logic 904, satellite switching logic data 905, data 906, and setting data 907. One or more of 902-907 may include or correspond to one of 802-807.
[0167] In block 700, a wireless communication device, such as a satellite base station, operates in an RRC connection state with a specific user equipment (UE) and serves a first cell ID and a first TAC ID in a fixed radio cell network. For example, base station 105 and the UE are interconnected and the UE is in RRC connection mode, as shown in reference... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described.
[0168] In block 701, base station 105 determines to switch a specific UE to the second satellite. For example, base station 105 determines to switch a specific UE to the second satellite based on the location of the first satellite, as shown in reference [reference needed]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described. To illustrate, base station 105 can determine coverage for one or more cells based on satellite location and optional satellite mobility information.
[0169] In block 702, base station 105 sends a satellite handover message to a specific UE based on a determination to switch the UE to a second satellite. For example, base station 105 sends a message instructing the UE to connect to another satellite, as shown in reference [reference needed]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described. To illustrate, the first satellite sends a paging message, DCI transmission, or RRC message to notify of the handover via signaling.
[0170] In block 703, base station 105 switches a specific UE to a second satellite. For example, base station 105 switches or transfers a UE to another satellite, as shown in reference [reference needed]. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As described. For illustration, the first satellite can send a paging message or an RRC reconfiguration message to the UE to facilitate the UE's connection to the second satellite. The other satellite can be associated with another cell or the same cell as the first satellite.
[0171] In other implementations, base station 105 may execute additional blocks (or base station 105 may be configured to perform additional operations). For example, base station 105 may perform one or more of the operations described above, including such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 Such actions are described and attributed to UE 115. As another example, base station 105 (e.g., a satellite network entity or satellite base station) may operate according to one or more aspects described below.
[0172] In the first aspect, switching a specific UE to a second satellite includes switching the specific UE to a cell associated with the second satellite and maintaining the active bandwidth portion (BWP) of the satellite network entity, maintaining the hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) process of the satellite network entity, or both.
[0173] In a second aspect, either alone or in conjunction with the first aspect, base station 105 also performs the following operation: sends a bandwidth portion (BWP) handover command to the UE, the BWP handover command being configured to change the active BWP of the satellite network entity and the UE.
[0174] In the third aspect, switching to a second satellite, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, includes: adjusting one or more timers based on an offset interrupt, the offset interrupt being determined based on the switching of the satellite or the switching pointing angle or beam angle of the UE.
[0175] In the fourth aspect, switching to a second satellite, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, includes: adjusting uplink scheduling, downlink scheduling, or both based on offset interruption, wherein the offset interruption is determined based on satellite switching or switching of the UE's pointing angle or beam angle.
[0176] In the fifth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the above aspects, the satellite switching message indicates the target beam, a new round-trip delay (RTD) value, a new timing advance (TA) value, or a combination thereof.
[0177] Therefore, the UE and the base station can perform satellite selection operations. By performing satellite selection operations, throughput and reliability can be increased, and such operations can be compatible with fixed radio networks and / or equipment with reduced capabilities (e.g., less advanced).
[0178] Those skilled in the art will understand that information and signals can be represented using any of a variety of different techniques and skills. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced in the above description can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.
[0179] The components, functional blocks, and modules described in this article (e.g., Figure 2 The components, functional blocks, and modules (in this context) may include processors, electronic devices, hardware devices, electronic components, logic circuits, memory, software code, firmware code, etc., or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the satellite handover-related features discussed herein can be implemented via dedicated processor circuitry, executable instructions, and / or combinations thereof.
[0180] Those skilled in the art will further understand that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described herein (e.g., Figure 5-7The logic blocks (in this document) can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been generally described above in accordance with their functions. Whether this function is implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functions in different ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as causing a departure from the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will also readily recognize that the order or combination of components, methods, or interactions described herein is merely illustrative, and that components, methods, or interactions of various aspects of this disclosure can be combined or performed in ways other than those described herein.
[0181] The various illustrative logic blocks, modules, and circuits described herein can be implemented or executed using a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.
[0182] The steps of the methods or algorithms described herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of both. The software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium can be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in the user terminal. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can reside as discrete components in the user terminal.
[0183] In one or more exemplary designs, the described functionality may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, these functions may be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media and communication media, encompassing any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium accessible to a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store required units of program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor. Furthermore, a connection may be appropriately referred to as computer-readable media. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or digital subscriber line (DSL), then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or DSL are all included in the definition of medium. The disks and optical discs used in this article include compact optical discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital multifunction discs (DVDs), hard disks, solid-state drives (SSDs), and Blu-ray discs. Disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations of these should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.
[0184] As used herein, including in the claims, the term “and / or” when used in a list of two or more items means that any one of the listed items may be used alone, or any combination of two or more items may be used. For example, if a composition is described as comprising components A, B, and / or C, the composition may comprise A alone; B alone; C alone; a combination of A and B; a combination of A and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B, and C. Furthermore, as used herein, including in the claims, the “or” used in a list of items beginning with “at least one” indicates a separate list, such as a list of “at least one of A, B, or C” meaning A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C) or any combination of these.
[0185] The prior description of this disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use this disclosure. Various modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples and designs described herein, but is accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.
Claims
1. A method for wireless communication, comprising: Operated by user equipment (UE) in a network with fixed radio cells; The UE determines multiple potential satellites to select a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; The UE monitors the first paging message from the first satellite; The UE receives the first paging message; The UE adjusts the beam settings, round-trip delay (RTD) settings, timing advance (TA) settings, or combinations thereof; The UE monitors the second paging message from the second satellite; The UE receives the second paging message; The UE performs cell reselection to select the cell associated with the second satellite using selection criteria; as well as The UE establishes a connection with the second satellite for paging surveillance or wireless communication. The selection of the cell associated with the second satellite based on the selection criteria includes: The UE determines a first expiration time for the cell associated with a first potential satellite among the plurality of potential satellites; The UE determines a second expiration time for the cell associated with a second potential satellite among the plurality of potential satellites; and The UE compares the first expiration time and the second expiration time to determine the longest expiration time, wherein the cell associated with the second satellite has the longest expiration time.
2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, The selection criteria indicate timing information for the cell stop time, which indicates when the serving radio cell will cease service in a specific area, and also includes: The UE switches to the cell associated with the second satellite before the cell stop time.
3. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, Establishing the connection includes: When in RRC idle state, it resides on the second satellite to perform paging and monitoring operations; or When in RRC connection state, restore connection for uplink transmission, downlink transmission, or both.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The second satellite is associated with a second cell, wherein the first cell and the second cell are the same cell.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The second satellite is associated with a second cell, wherein the first cell and the second cell are different.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The fixed radio cell includes a temporary fixed radio cell, wherein the temporary fixed radio cell has an operating duration in a specific area and is a quasi-earth fixed cell.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The selection criteria include satellite coverage expiration time, satellite movement, elevation difference, angle of arrival, frequency information, signal quality change, network-triggered short message, or a combination thereof.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining the first expiration time includes: The UE calculates the first expiration time based on satellite and beam information for the first potential satellite.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The UE determines when to perform measurement operations on neighboring cells based on the expiration time information for the cell associated with the second satellite.
10. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The UE receives system information messages or dedicated radio resource control messages that indicate expiration time information for one or more cells associated with at least one of the potential satellites.
11. An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: processor; as well as A memory coupled to the processor stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations: Operate in networks with fixed radio cells; Multiple potential satellites are identified to select a first cell for camping, the first cell being associated with a first satellite; Receives a paging instruction from the first cell associated with the first satellite for instructing the monitoring of a cell associated with a new satellite, the new satellite corresponding to the second satellite; Perform cell reselection to select the cell associated with the second satellite using selection criteria; as well as Establish a connection with the second satellite for paging surveillance or wireless communication. The selection of the cell associated with the second satellite based on the selection criteria includes: Determine the first expiration time for the cell associated with the first potential satellite among the plurality of potential satellites; Determine a second expiration time for the cell associated with a second potential satellite among the plurality of potential satellites; and The first expiration time and the second expiration time are compared to determine the longest expiration time, wherein the cell associated with the second satellite has the longest expiration time.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein, Selecting the cell associated with the second satellite includes performing the following operations: The determination or adjustment of the beam selection with the second satellite will be completed before the first paging opportunity with the first satellite; as well as Monitor paging messages during the first paging opportunity with the second satellite.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein, Selecting the cell for the second satellite involves the following operations: The determination of beam selection or adjustment with the second satellite will occur during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite; and Before selecting the cell of the second satellite, the paging message is monitored during the first paging opportunity with the first satellite.
14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein, When executed by the processor, the instruction also causes the processor to perform the following operations: Operating in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection state with the first satellite, the UE operates in the first cell ID and with a first Tracking Area Code (TAC) ID; Receive a satellite handover message for the first satellite, the satellite handover message indicating the second satellite; as well as The system switches to the second satellite based on the satellite handover message, wherein the second satellite is selected based on the satellite handover message.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The satellite handover message includes downlink control information (DCI), media access control (MAC) control element (MAC CE), or beam switching command.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The satellite handover message is Msg2 of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure or the Random Access (RA) procedure.
17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The satellite handover message is Msg4 of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure or the Random Access (RA) procedure.
18. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The satellite handover message is Msg2 or Msg4 of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Establishment Procedure or Random Access (RA) Procedure, and is received from the cell associated with the second satellite.
19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, After the switch to the second satellite, the Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request (HARQ) process for the cell associated with the first satellite continues in the cell associated with the second satellite.
20. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The satellite handover message includes a beam switching command message, wherein the beam switching command message is a UE-specific or group-specific indication for continuing the bandwidth portion configuration in the cell associated with the second satellite.
21. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The first cell ID and first tracking area code (TAC) ID are operated and served by the satellite network entity together with the specific user equipment (UE) in the fixed radio cell network; The satellite network entity sends a satellite handover message to the specific UE based on a determination to switch the specific UE to the second satellite; as well as The satellite network entity will switch the specific UE to the second satellite. Switching to the second satellite includes: One or more timers are adjusted based on offset interrupts, wherein the offset interrupts are determined based on satellite handover or switching the pointing angle or beam angle of the specific UE; and Switching the specific UE to the cell associated with the second satellite and maintaining the active bandwidth portion (BWP) of the satellite network entity, maintaining the hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) process of the satellite network entity, or both.
22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: The satellite network entity sends a Bandwidth Part (BWP) switching command to the UE, the BWP switching command being configured to change the active BWP of both the satellite network entity and the UE.
23. An apparatus for wireless communication at a satellite network entity, comprising: processor; as well as A memory coupled to the processor stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following operations: The first cell ID and first tracking area code (TAC) ID that operate and serve in a fixed radio cell network together with a specific user equipment (UE); Based on the determination to switch the specific UE to the second satellite, a satellite switching message is sent to the specific UE; as well as Switch the specific UE to the second satellite. Switching to the second satellite includes: One or more timers are adjusted based on offset interrupts, wherein the offset interrupts are determined based on satellite handover or switching the pointing angle or beam angle of the specific UE; and Switching the specific UE to the cell associated with the second satellite and maintaining the active bandwidth portion (BWP) of the satellite network entity, maintaining the hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) process of the satellite network entity, or both.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein, Switching to the second satellite includes performing the following operations: adjusting uplink scheduling, downlink scheduling, or both based on an offset interruption, wherein the offset interruption is determined based on satellite switching or switching the pointing angle or beam angle of the UE.
25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein, The satellite switching message indicates the target beam, a new round-trip delay (RTD) value, a new timing advance (TA) value, or a combination thereof.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Handoff for satellite communication
CN109075853A
KR20200086217A