Methods and systems for maximizing throughput of devices operating in multi-rat mode

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method of selecting a frequency combination for a user equipment (UE) is disclosed. The method includes determining, by the UE, at least one of a bandwidth or multiple input multiple output (MIMO) layer information associated with each of a plurality of cells present in a network upon detecting the plurality of cells. The method includes identifying, by the UE, at least one cell combination among the plurality of cells that provides a maximum throughput based on the determined bandwidth and MIMO layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells. The method further includes latching, by the UE, onto the cell combination with the maximum throughput.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to network procedures performed by a user equipment (UE), and more particularly to network procedures performed by a UE operating in multi-radio access technology (RAT) mode. BACKGROUND

[0002] With advancements and evolution of wireless network technologies such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) (4G) and New Radio (NR) (5G), devices such as UEs capable of operating in multi-RAT and multi-carrier mode indicate supported bands and combinations and different radio capabilities to the network through a UECapabilitylnformation message. Different information elements in UECapabilitylnformation such as SupportedBandEUTRA, supportedBandCombination, MIMO-CapabilityDL indicate the bands, combinations and MIMO capabilities of the UE. Based on this capability information, the network decides whether to configure carrier aggregation or dual connectivity in certain bands in the device and in the support layers. Essentially, the throughput achieved by the device depends on how the network configures the device based on the information received in the UECapabilitylnformation message. The exchange of capability information is typically performed at the time of attach procedure or when the network asks after handover.

[0003] 3GPP specification (TS 24.301) provides another method to update the UE capability information using a tracking area update procedure. If the UE wants to update or modify its radio capabilities with the network, in the tracking area update (TAU) request message, the UE can set a flag corresponding to the "flag indicating the need for UE radio capability information update" based on which the UE capability information can be updated. When the UE reports the need for capability update in the TAU request, then the network (which can be interchangeably referred to as "NW") will ask for the UE radio capabilities based on which the UE will send the updated UE capability information to the network in the UECapabilitylnformation message.

[0004] The network deploys in a region different bandwidths of cells based on the spectrum available in different bands that can be utilized by the cells. Spectrum is generally a scarce resource, even more so in the case of lower spectrum bands, for which multiple operators compete due to their higher range and better penetration through walls and obstacles characteristics. (Lower spectrum bands use lower frequencies, and therefore, cells deployed in these bands have higher range, better coverage and better signal penetration through walls or obstacles capabilities). This results in limited bandwidth availability per operator, or sometimes in bandwidth available in chunks rather than in contiguous frequency ranges. On the other hand, due to the limited availability of space for multiple antennas, mobile devices cannot support multiple layers for some bands, or can not support some bands at all sometimes. At a given point in time, the network schedules a certain number of resource blocks (which translates basically to bandwidth) based on the number of users in the cells.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a solution that overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks. SUMMARY

[0006] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0007] There is a need for a method that maximizes the throughput of a device operating in a multi-radio access technology (RAT) mode.

[0008] TECHNICAL SOLUTION

[0009] This summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description of the application. This summary is neither

[0010] The present disclosure relates to a method of selecting a frequency combination for a user equipment (UE). The method includes determining, by the UE, at least one of bandwidth information or multiple input multiple output (MIMO) layer information associated with each of a plurality of cells upon detecting the plurality of cells present in a network. The method includes identifying, by the UE, at least one cell combination among the plurality of cells that provides a maximum throughput based on the at least one of the bandwidth information or the MIMO layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells. The method further includes connecting, by the UE, to the cell combination that provides the maximum throughput.

[0011] The present disclosure relates to a system for selecting a frequency combination for a user equipment (UE). The system includes a controller configured to determine at least one of bandwidth information or multiple input multiple output (MIMO) layer information associated with each of a plurality of cells upon detecting the plurality of cells present in a network. The controller is further configured to identify at least one cell combination among the plurality of cells that provides a maximum throughput based on the at least one of the bandwidth information or the MIMO layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells. The controller is further configured to connect to the cell combination that provides the maximum throughput.

[0012] For further illustration of the advantages and features of the application, the application will be more thoroughly described by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be understood that these drawings are only typical of the application and should not be considered limiting of its scope. The application will be described with additional specificity and detail by making reference to the drawings in which:

[0013] Before undertaking the detailed description below, it can be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document: the terms “include” and “comprise,” as well as derivatives thereof, mean “including, but not limited to”; the term “or” is inclusive, meaning and / or; the phrases “associated with” and “associated therewith,” as well as derivatives thereof, can mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have a property of, have, have a property of, or the like; and the term “controller” means any device, system or part thereof that controls at least one operation, such a device can be implemented in hardware, firmware or software, or some combination of at least two of the same. It should be noted that the functionality associated with any particular controller can be centralized or distributed, whether locally or remotely.

[0014] Moreover, various functions described below can be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is formed from computer readable program code. The term "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data, or a portion thereof adapted for implementation on a suitable computer readable program code. The phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer readable medium" includes any type of media capable of being accessed by a computer, such as read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of memory. A "non-transitory" computer readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links limiting a transitory signal or other signals. A non-transitory computer readable medium includes media where data is permanently stored and media where data is stored and later overwritten, such as a rewritable optical disc or an erasable memory device.

[0015] Definitions for certain words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and include the definitions below. The definition of such terms, however, can vary depending on the particular contextual use of the terms. It is, therefore, intended that the definitions contained herein be consulted in interpreting the meaning of such terms.

[0016] Advantages

[0017] The present disclosure provides a method for maximizing throughput of a device operating in a multi-radio access technology (RAT) mode. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present application will become better understood when the following detailed description is read, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0019] Figure 1 A method implemented in a user equipment (UE) for selecting a frequency combination for a UE in a multi-carrier connected mode in 4G and 5G RATs is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 2 A method implemented in a user equipment (UE) for selecting a frequency combination for a UE in a multi-carrier connected mode in 4G and 5G RATs is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 3 An operational flow diagram depicting a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 4 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 5 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 6 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 7 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 8 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 9 An operational flow diagram illustrating a process for modifying a UE capability is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a terminal (or UE) in a wireless communication system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, flow charts illustrate the functionality and the procedures described below in connection with one or more embodiments. The functions and procedures described can be implemented by various means, such as hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. However, the term "transmit" as used throughout this detailed description shall not be interpreted as limited to a hardware based mechanism. For example, it is possible that a "transmit" operation can be implemented by a software module executed by a processor, or a combination thereof. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more components of a device can have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures can show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present application so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this description. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The various embodiments discussed below are merely for illustration and should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Figures 1 to 10 The various embodiments of the principles of the present disclosure described in this patent document are only meant to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure and should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system or device.

[0031] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of the present application, an example will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and using specific language, where appropriate. It is to be understood, however, that the scope of the present application is not limited to the example shown, such variations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and further applications of the principles of the present application as illustrated and described are contemplated to be within the scope of the present application.

[0032] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the general description above and the detailed description below are merely intended to provide an understanding of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application.

[0033] Reference throughout this specification to "an aspect", "another aspect" or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present application. Accordingly, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment", "in another embodiment", and similar language in the specification, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0034] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not necessarily include only those steps in the list and can include additional steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other subsystems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional subsystems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0035] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The systems, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0036] Figure 1 A method 100 for selecting a frequency combination for a user equipment (UE) in a multi-carrier connected mode in 4G (e.g., LTE) and 5G (e.g., NR) RATs is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In an example, the method 100 can be implemented in a UE. The UE can be configured to operate in an E-UTRAN New Radio-Dual Connectivity (EN-DC) mode. In an embodiment, the UE can be configured to detect bandwidths associated with multiple cells present in a network in order to select a frequency combination for the UE in a multi-carrier connected mode in 4G and 5G RATs.

[0037] At step 102, the method 100 includes determining, by the UE, at least one of bandwidth information or multiple input multiple output (MIMO) layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells upon detecting the plurality of cells present in the network. For example, the bandwidth information associated with a cell can indicate a bandwidth of a frequency band used in the cell, and the MIMO layer information associated with a cell can indicate a number of MIMO layers supported by the UE in the frequency band.

[0038] At step 104, the method 100 includes identifying, by the UE, at least one cell combination providing a maximum throughput among the plurality of cells in the network based on the determined at least one of bandwidth information or MIMO layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells. In an embodiment, the method 100 includes determining another cell combination providing a throughput less than the maximum throughput (e.g., a cell combination providing a sub-optimal throughput) among the plurality of cells upon failing to determine the at least one cell combination providing the maximum throughput. In some embodiments, to determine such a sub-optimal combination, various possible cell combinations are ranked and the best combination (e.g., the highest ranked combination) is selected. If it is not possible to connect to any one cell from the best combination, then the next highest ranked combination is selected.

[0039] In an embodiment, the UE can be configured to scan a number of combinations of the plurality of cells, the number of combinations including the at least one cell combination providing the maximum throughput and the another cell combination providing the throughput less than the maximum throughput. In an embodiment, the scanning can be performed based on the throughput related to each of the number of combinations.

[0040] At step 106, the method 100 includes latching, by the UE, onto the cell combination having the maximum throughput (or connecting to the cell combination having the maximum throughput).

[0041] Figure 2 A method 200 implemented in a user equipment (UE) for selecting a frequency combination for the UE in a multi-carrier connected mode in 4G and 5G RATs according to an embodiment of the disclosure is shown. In an example, the method 200 can be implemented in the UE.

[0042] At step 202, the method 200 includes obtaining information related to a plurality of cells in a network that can be combined in a multi-carrier mode.

[0043] At step 204, the method 200 includes obtaining bandwidth information and MIMO layer information of each of the plurality of cells.

[0044] At step 206, the method 200 includes determining a result of a calculation of a throughput of each cell based on the bandwidth information and the MIMO layer information.

[0045] At step 208, the method 200 includes determining a selected cell combination among the plurality of cells based on the calculated throughput.

[0046] In an embodiment, obtaining the bandwidth information can be performed based on a determination that the network is configuring the UE to add an NR cell to a multi-carrier mode (e.g., EN-DC) cell combination (e.g., by configuring the UE to perform Bl measurements on the NR cell). In an embodiment, the NR cell can be a cell that exists among the plurality of cells in the network. In an embodiment, the UE configured by the network can be operating on a maximum component carrier. Subsequently, in response to determining that the network is configuring the UE to use the NR cell, the method 200 can include determining a bandwidth associated with the NR cell from among the plurality of cells that is being measured by the network.

[0047] In an embodiment, the UE can have been previously configured to include a LTE cell in a multi-carrier mode (e.g., LTE-CA) cell combination. In an embodiment, the method 200 can include comparing the bandwidth associated with the NR cell to a bandwidth associated with the LTE cell previously configured to the UE. For example, the bandwidth associated with the NR cell can be a bandwidth of an NR frequency band used by the NR cell, and the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell can be a bandwidth of a LTE frequency band used by the LTE cell.

[0048] In an embodiment, the method 200 can include determining a result of adding the NR cell to the cell combination in place of the LTE cell (e.g., whether the total bandwidth will increase or decrease as a result of adding the NR cell and removing the LTE cell). Subsequently, in an embodiment, in a case where it is determined that adding the NR cell in place of the LTE cell will result in a higher total bandwidth and maximum throughput, the method 200 can send Bl measurements associated with the NR cell to the network. In an embodiment, the UE can be configured to communicate data in an EN-DC mode after the NR cell is added. In another embodiment, in a case where it is determined that adding the NR cell in place of the LTE cell will result in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput, the method 200 can not send Bl measurements associated with the NR cell to the network, and can continue to operate using the previously configured cell combination.

[0049] In embodiments, the UE can be previously configured to include an NR cell in a multi-carrier mode (e.g., EN-DC) cell combination. In embodiments, the method 200 can include determining that an LTE cell is available in the network. The method 200 can include comparing a bandwidth associated with the previously configured NR cell to a bandwidth associated with the available LTE cell. In embodiments, the method 200 can include determining a result of adding the LTE cell to the cell combination (e.g., whether the total bandwidth will increase or decrease as a result of adding the LTE cell). This can include comparing the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell to the bandwidth associated with the NR cell. In embodiments, where it is determined that adding the LTE cell will result in a higher total bandwidth (e.g., it is determined that the bandwidth associated with the NR cell is less than the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell), the method 200 can include sending an SCGFailurelnfo message to the network for removal of the NR cell from the cell combination. In embodiments, the SCGFailurelnfo message can be sent by the UE to the network.

[0050] In embodiments, the measurement event is configured by the network for modifying or replacing one or more previously added cells in the cell combination. In embodiments, the measurement event can be measurement event A6. In embodiments, the one or more previously added cells can include an LTE cell. Continuing with the above embodiment, the method 200 can be configured to determine a bandwidth associated with a cell from the plurality of cells that is configured to be measured by the measurement event. Subsequently, the method 200 can include comparing the bandwidth associated with the cell to the bandwidth of the one or more previously added cells.

[0051] In embodiments, the method 200 can include determining a result of adding a cell to the cell combination in place of one of the previously added cells (e.g., whether the total bandwidth will increase or decrease as a result of adding the NR cell). Subsequently, in embodiments, where it is determined that adding the cell will result in a higher total bandwidth and higher throughput than provided by the previously configured cell combination, the method 200 can be configured to send a measurement result associated with the cell to the network. In another embodiment, where it is determined that adding the cell will result in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput than provided by the previously configured cell combination (i.e., compared to the maximum throughput provided by the possible cell combinations), the method 200 can continue to operate using the previously configured cell combination.

[0052] In embodiments, the UE can be operating in one of a LTE-cell aggregation (CA) mode or an E-UTRAN new radio-dual connectivity (EN-DC) mode. Further, the UE can be configured with a maximum number of MIMO layers. Continuing with the above embodiment, the method 200 can include determining that a MIMO layer is allocated to a cell with a lower bandwidth in a previously configured cell combination more than a MIMO layer allocated to a cell with a higher bandwidth in the previously configured cell combination. In embodiments, the determining can be performed by the UE. Subsequently, the method 200 can include transmitting a channel state information (CSI) report to the network.

[0053] In embodiments, the CSI report can be transmitted by the UE. Further, the CSI report can report a cell with a lower bandwidth having a lower rank index (RI) and a cell with a higher bandwidth having a higher rank RI. Continuing with the above embodiment, the network can be configured to increase the MIMO layer allocated to the cell with the higher bandwidth and decrease the MIMO layer allocated to the cell with the lower bandwidth.

[0054] Subsequently, in embodiments, the UE can be operating in the LTE mode and communicating data to the network. Continuing with this embodiment, the method 200 can include configuring NR measurements for adding NR cells to the cell combination for operating in the EN-DC mode. In embodiments, the configuring can be performed by the network. Further, the method 200 can include determining whether NR measurements are configured for one or more time division duplex (TDD) NR bands and one or more frequency division duplex (FDD) NR bands. In embodiments, the determining can be performed by the UE.

[0055] Continuing with the above embodiment, the method 200 can include transmitting, by the UE, a measurement report to the network for the one or more TDD bands. In embodiments, the measurement report can be transmitted by the UE. Further, the measurement report can be transmitted upon determining that the NR measurements are configured for the one or more TDD bands and the one or more FDD bands. In embodiments, the determining can be performed by the UE. Upon receiving the measurement report, the network can be configured to add NR cells associated with the one or more TDD bands to the cell combination configured to the UE. That is, the network can configure the UE to add the NR cells associated with the one or more TDD bands to the cell combination configured to the UE.

[0056] In an embodiment, the UE can be operating in a NR-EUTRA Dual Connectivity (NE-DC) mode. Continuing with this embodiment, the method 200 can include determining one or more EN-DC mode combinations for the plurality of cells. In an embodiment, this determination can be performed by the UE by reading a "SystemInformationBlockType26a." In an embodiment, the "SystemInformationBlockType26a" can be an information block associated with neighboring LTE cells among the plurality of cells.

[0057] In an embodiment, the "SystemInformationBlockType26a" can include a list of NR bands associated with EN-DC operation (e.g., a list of NR bands for which EN-DC operation can be performed). Subsequently, the method 200 can include determining that one or more EN-DC band combinations have a higher total bandwidth compared to a previous NE-DC band combination. In an embodiment, this determination can be performed by the UE.

[0058] Continuing with the above embodiment, the method 200 can include performing one or more of the following: sending a measurement report to the network for an inter-RAT handover to a LTE mode; or camping on a LTE cell among the plurality of cells that supports a higher bandwidth band combination without performing a handover by the network. In an embodiment, the measurement report can be sent by the UE and the UE can camp on the LTE cell.

[0059] In an embodiment, the UE can be sent information related to a cell combination configured by the network. In an embodiment, upon receiving the information related to the cell combination configured by the network, the UE can be configured to determine that the combination of cells configured by the network fails to provide a maximum throughput. Upon determining that the combination of cells fails to provide the maximum throughput, the UE can be configured to send a tracking area update (TAU) request to the network for indicating an update of UE capability information. In an embodiment, the TAU request can include a flag set by the UE to correspond to a "flag for UE radio capability information update needed." In response to sending the TAU request to the network, the UE can be configured to receive an inquiry associated with UE CA capability from the network. Upon receiving the inquiry, the UE can be configured to process the inquiry and send updated UE capability information to the network. In an embodiment, the updated UE capability information can include: a reduced MIMO capability on a band supporting a lower bandwidth compared to another available band of the cell combination configured by the network, removal of support for EN-DC, and removal of support for the band supporting the lower bandwidth. In an embodiment, the method 200 can include obtaining duplex mode information for each cell and determining the combination of cells based on the duplex mode information.

[0060] Figure 3 An operational flow diagram 300 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination to obtain a higher throughput is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The higher throughput can be related to transmitting data from the UE to the network. In an embodiment, the UE can be transmitting data to the network in LTE 3CA mode and the UE can be operating on a maximum component carrier. In an embodiment, the cell combination can be selected from a plurality of cells present in the network and at least one LTE cell previously added to the cell combination (i.e., at least one LTE cell configured for CA in the UE). In an embodiment, selecting the cell combination can include avoiding addition of an NR cell to the cell combination at the UE. In an embodiment, the NR cell can be an NR cell among the plurality of cells present in the network. In an embodiment, the addition of the NR cell can be avoided by not sending a Bl measurement report from the UE to the network. Further, the NR cell can be added by the network and can require removal of a previously added LTE cell.

[0061]

[0062]

[0063] At step 302, the process can include configuring a Bl measurement by the network to the UE for adding an NR cell and removing an LTE cell for EN-DC mode operation. In an embodiment, the UE can read SystemInformationBlockType xy to obtain a list of NR for EN-DC.

[0064] At step 304, the process can include determining a bandwidth of the measured NR cell by the UE. Further, the UE can be configured to compare the determined bandwidth of the NR cell with a bandwidth of a previously configured LTE cell in the cell combination. In an embodiment, more than one LTE cell can be configured in the previously UE's cell combination. Upon comparison, the process can proceed to one of step 306-a or step 306-b.

[0065] At step 306-a, the process includes avoiding sending a Bl measurement report and adding the NR cell to the cell combination in place of one of the LTE cells when it is determined that the previously configured LTE cell in the cell combination has a higher bandwidth compared to the NR cell can result in a lower overall throughput.

[0066] At step 306-b, the process includes sending a Bl measurement report to the network and adding the NR cell to the cell combination in place of one of the LTE cells when it is determined that the previously configured LTE cell in the cell combination includes a cell with a lower bandwidth compared to the NR cell can result in a higher overall throughput.

[0067] At step 308, the process can terminate.

[0068] Figure 4 An operational flow diagram 400 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination for higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an example, the higher throughput can be related to data transfer between the UE and the network and the data can be transferred in EN-DC mode.

[0069]

[0070]

[0071] At step 402, the process includes determining whether the UE is operating in EN-DC mode.

[0072] At step 404, the UE detects the presence of LTE cells available in the same PLMN.

[0073] At step 406, the process includes comparing the bandwidth of the NR cell (in the secondary cell group (SCG) of the EN-DC cell combination) with the bandwidth of the available LTE frequency band.

[0074] At step 408-a, the process includes declaring SCG failure and indicating the SCG failure to the network in the SCGFailurelnfo message, such that the NR cell is removed from the cell combination (e.g., SCG) upon determining that the NR cell has lower bandwidth compared to the LTE cell. The UE can ignore the Bl measurement and avoid sending the Bl measurement report to avoid SCG addition if the network again adds the reconfiguration Bl measurement report for the SCG of the NR cell.

[0075] At step 408-b, the process includes sending the Bl measurement report upon determining that the NR cell has higher bandwidth compared to the LTE cell.

[0076] At step 410, the process can terminate.

[0077] Figure 5 An operational flow diagram 500 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination for higher throughput is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the higher throughput can be related to data transfer between the UE and the network in EN-DC mode. In an embodiment, the network can configure the measurement for LTE b66 cell (10 MHz) for LTE CA mode.

[0078]

[0079]

[0080] At step 502, the process can include configuring, by the network, a measurement event A6 for replacing a current secondary cell (SCell) in a cell combination configured for EN-DC mode. In an embodiment, the UE can be operating under maximum CA support (i.e., operating on maximum component carriers).

[0081] At step 504, the process includes determining, by the UE, a bandwidth associated with the LTE cell for which the measurement event was previously configured.

[0082] At step 506, the process includes determining whether the measured bandwidth of the LTE cell is lower than the bandwidth of the current SCell.

[0083] At step 508-a, the process includes refraining from sending a measurement report in case it is determined that the measured bandwidth of the LTE cell is lower than the bandwidth of the current SCell.

[0084] At step 508-b, the process includes sending a measurement report for a cell change in case it is determined that the measured bandwidth of the LTE cell is higher than the bandwidth of the current SCell.

[0085] At step 510, the process can terminate.

[0086] Figure 6 An operational flow diagram 600 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination for higher throughput is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the higher throughput can be related to data transfer between the UE and the network. In an embodiment, the UE can be operating in EN-DC mode with different number of MIMO layers allocated on different carriers. In an embodiment, the N78 band can be operating in 4x4 MIMO (4 MIMO layers allocated) while the B5 band can be operating in 2x2 MIMO (2 MIMO layers allocated), however the N78 band has lower bandwidth compared to the B5 band.

[0087]

[0088]

[0089] At step 602, the process includes checking, by the UE, whether a LTE / NR cell in a cell combination has lower bandwidth compared to a cell with higher bandwidth but is allocated more MIMO layers.

[0090] At step 604, the process includes sending a CSI report indicating lower RI for a cell with lower bandwidth and higher RI for a cell with higher bandwidth in case it is determined that the LTE / NR cell with lower bandwidth is allocated more layers compared to the cell with higher bandwidth.

[0091] At step 606, the process includes increasing MIMO layers allocated on the higher bandwidth cell and decreasing MIMO layers allocated on the lower bandwidth cell by the network in response to the CSI report.

[0092] At step 608, the process includes continuing data transfer upon determining that the LTE / NR cell is not allocated more layers compared to the cell with higher bandwidth.

[0093] At step 610, the process can terminate.

[0094] Figure 7 An operational flow diagram 700 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination for higher throughput is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the higher throughput can be related to data transfer between the UE and the network. In an embodiment, the UE can be operating in LTE connected mode.

[0095]

[0096]

[0097] At step 702, the process includes configuring a plurality of NR measurements by the network for adding NR Scell in EN-DC connected mode.

[0098] At step 704, the process includes determining whether NR measurements are configured for many TDD bands and many FDD bands number.

[0099] At step 706-a, the process includes sending measurement report for many TDD bands based on TDD bands generally having higher available bandwidth compared to FDD bands upon determining that measurements are configured for both TDD bands and FDD bands.

[0100] At step 706-b, the process includes sending measurement report as usual upon determining that measurements are not configured for both TDD bands and FDD bands.

[0101] At step 708, the process can terminate.

[0102] Figure 8 An operational flow diagram 800 depicting a process for selecting a cell combination for higher throughput is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the higher throughput can be related to data transfer between the UE and the network. In an embodiment, the UE can be operating in NE-DC (limited band combination) mode, resulting in throughput limitation. In an embodiment, data can be transferred in NE-DC mode and the UE can check for neighboring LTE cells to determine whether EN-DC cell combination is possible.

[0103]

[0104]

[0105] At step 802, the process includes reading a "SystemInformationBlockType26a" associated with a neighboring LTE cell to determine possible EN-DC cell combinations.

[0106] At step 804, the process includes determining whether the possible EN-DC combination has a higher total bandwidth compared to the NE-DC combination.

[0107] At step 806, the process includes, upon determining that the possible EN-DC combination has a higher total bandwidth compared to the NE-DC combination, performing one of: sending a measurement report for inter-RAT handover to the LTE cell; or performing RRE in case the network does not perform handover.

[0108] At step 808, the process includes adding, by the network, an NR cell to the RRC- Reconfiguration.

[0109] At step 810, the process includes, upon determining that the possible EN-DC combination does not have a higher total bandwidth compared to the NE-DC combination, continuing data transfer in NE-DC mode.

[0110] At step 812, the process can terminate.

[0111] Figure 9 An operational flow diagram 900 depicting a process for modifying UE capabilities is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the UE can support a maximum of two component carriers (CCs). Data transfer can be ongoing between the UE and the network in EN-DC mode.

[0112]

[0113]

[0114] At step 902, the process includes activating, by the network, CA (e.g., multi-carrier mode) and allocating bandwidth based on the capabilities reported by the UE to the network.

[0115] At step 904, the process includes determining whether the current configuration (or combination) of multiple cells provided by the network for CA is the best configuration for maximum throughput.

[0116] At step 906, the process includes, upon determining that the current configuration does not provide maximum throughput, determining, by the network, which capability change can lead to a better configuration.

[0117] At step 908, the process can include transmitting, by the UE, a TAU message to the network in order to update the UE capability information. In the TAU message, the UE can set a flag corresponding to a "flag for the need of UE radio capability information update" based on which the capability information can be updated. The modified capability in the UE capability information can include a reduced MIMO capability on a frequency band supporting a lower bandwidth compared to another available frequency band combined by the network, removal of support for EN-DC, or removal of support for a frequency band supporting a lower bandwidth compared to another available frequency band.

[0118] At step 910, the process can include transmitting, by the network, a new configuration according to the updated UE capability information.

[0119] At step 912, the process includes continuing normal transmission of data upon determining that the current configuration provides maximum throughput.

[0120] At step 914, the process can terminate.

[0121] Figure 10 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a terminal 1000 in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The configuration of FIG. 1 can be understood as a part of the configuration of the terminal 1000. Hereinafter, it should be understood that a term including "unit" or "er" or "or machine" at the end can refer to a unit for processing at least one function or operation, and can be implemented with hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Figure 6

[0122] Referring to FIG. 1, Figure 10 The terminal 1000 can include a communication unit 1002 (e.g., a communicator or a communication interface or a transceiver), a storage unit 1004 (e.g., a storage), and a controller 1006 (e.g., at least one processor). As an example, the terminal 1000 can be a user equipment such as a cellular phone or other device that communicates over multiple cellular networks such as 4G, 5G, or quasi-5G networks or any future wireless communication networks.

[0123] The storage unit 1004 can store data such as a basic program for operating the terminal 1000, an application program, configuration information, and the like. The storage unit 1004 can be configured as a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, or a combination of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. In addition, the storage unit 1004 can provide data stored therein in response to a request from the controller 1006. In an example, the storage unit 1004 can store a BW database including bandwidths related to a plurality of cells.

[0124] ​The controller 1006 can control overall operations of the terminal 1000. For example, the controller 1006 can transmit and receive signals via the communication unit 1002. Also, the controller 1006 records data in and reads the recorded data from the storage unit 1004. The controller 1006 can perform the functions of a protocol stack required by a specific communication standard. To this end, the controller 1006 can include at least one processor or microprocessor or can be a part of the processor. In addition, a part of the communication unit 1002 and the controller 1006 can be referred to as a communication processor (CP).

[0125] The controller 1006 can be configured to determine a bandwidth associated with each of a plurality of cells present in a network upon detecting the plurality of cells. Further, the controller 1006 can be configured to identify, based on the bandwidth associated with each of the plurality of cells, at least one cell combination among the plurality of cells for providing a maximum throughput. Subsequently, the controller 1006 can be configured to latch to (or connect to) the cell combination having the maximum throughput. In an embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine, upon failing to determine the at least one cell combination having the maximum throughput, another cell combination among the plurality of cells having a throughput less than the maximum throughput. For such a best combination determination, various combinations are prepared to be ranked and the best combination is selected. If connection to any of the cells from the best combination fails, the next best combination in the ranking is selected. In an embodiment, the storage 1004 can be configured to store the bandwidths related to the plurality of cells, the maximum throughput, and the throughputs related to the at least one cell combination and the other cell combination. In an embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to scan a number of combinations of the plurality of cells, the number of combinations including the at least one cell combination and the other cell combination. In an embodiment, the scanning can be performed based on the throughput related to each of the number of combinations of cells.

[0126] Referring to Figure 2 , the controller 1006 can be configured to obtain bandwidth information and MIMO layer information of each of a plurality of cells. In an embodiment, the obtaining of the bandwidth information can be based on a determination that a network can be configuring a new radio (NR) cell for the UE. Subsequently, in response to determining that the network is configuring the NR cell for the UE, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine a bandwidth associated with the NR cell from the plurality of cells being measured by the network.

[0127] In an embodiment, the UE can be previously configured with a Long Term Evolution (LTE) cell. Further, in an embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to compare a bandwidth associated with the NR cell with a bandwidth associated with the LTE cell previously configured to the UE. Further, in an embodiment, upon comparing the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell with the bandwidth associated with the NR cell, the controller 1006 can be configured to send, by the communication unit 1002, an SCGFailurelnfo message to the network to remove the NR cell in response to determining that the bandwidth of the NR cell is less than the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell.

[0128] In an embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine a result of adding the NR cell. Subsequently, in an embodiment, upon determining that adding the NR cell results in a higher total bandwidth and maximum throughput, the controller 1006 can be configured to send, by the communication unit 1002, a Bl measurement associated with the NR cell to the network. Further, in an embodiment, upon determining that adding the NR cell results in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput, the controller 1006 can be configured to continue the cell combination.

[0129] In an embodiment, the network can be configuring a measurement event for modifying one or more previously added cells. In an embodiment, the one or more previously added cells can be LTE cells. Continuing the above embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine a bandwidth associated with a cell from the plurality of cells that is being measured by the network. Subsequently, the controller 1006 can be configured to compare the bandwidth associated with the cell with a bandwidth of the one or more previously added cells.

[0130] In an embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine a result of adding the cell. Subsequently, in an embodiment, upon determining that adding the cell results in a higher total bandwidth and higher throughput, the controller 1006 can be configured to send, by the communication unit 1002, a measurement result associated with the cell to the network. Further, in an embodiment, upon determining that adding the cell results in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput, the controller 1006 can be configured to continue the cell combination.

[0131] In an embodiment, the UE can be operating in one of a LTE-cell aggregation (CA) mode and an ENDC mode. Further, the UE can be configured with a maximum number of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) layers. Continuing the above embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine that a cell with a lower bandwidth among the plurality of cells is added with more MIMO layers as compared to a cell with a higher bandwidth. Subsequently, the controller 1006 can be configured to send, by the communication unit 1002, a channel state information (CSI) to the network.

[0132] Further, the CSI report can include a cell with a lower bandwidth having a lower rank index (RI) and a cell with a higher bandwidth having a higher RI. Continuing with the above example, the network can be configured to increase the MIMO layers on the cell with the higher bandwidth and decrease the MIMO layers on the cell with the lower bandwidth. In an embodiment, the communication unit 1002 can be configured to communicate data in EN-DC mode after adding the NR cell.

[0133] Subsequently, in an embodiment, the UE can be operating in LTE mode and communicating data to the network. Continuing with the above example, the method 200 can include configuring NR measurements for adding a NR cell in EN-DC. In an embodiment, the configuring can be performed by the network. Further, the method 200 can include determining whether NR measurements are configured for one or more time division duplex (TDD) bands and one or more frequency division duplex (FDD) bands. In an embodiment, the determining can be performed by the controller 1006.

[0134] Continuing with the above example, the controller 1006 can be configured to send, by the communication unit 1002, a measurement report to the network for the one or more TDD bands. Further, the measurement report can be sent upon determining that the NR measurements are configured for the one or more TDD bands and the one or more FDD bands. In an embodiment, the determining can be performed by the controller 1006. Upon receiving the measurement report, the network can be configured to add a NR cell associated with the one or more TDD bands.

[0135] In an embodiment, the UE can be in NE-DC mode. Continuing with the above example, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine one or more EN-DC mode combinations of a plurality of cells. In an embodiment, the determining can be performed by the controller 1006 by reading a “SystemInformationBlockType26a”. In an embodiment, the “SystemInformationBlockType26a” can be an information block associated with a neighboring LTE cell among the plurality of cells.

[0136] In an embodiment, the “SystemInformationBlockType26a” can include a list of NR bands associated with EN-DC operation upon determining that the one or more EN-DC combinations have a higher bandwidth compared to a previous NE-DC combination. Subsequently, the method 200 can include determining that the one or more EN-DC combinations have a higher bandwidth compared to a previous NR-E-UTRA dual connectivity (NE-DC) combination. In an embodiment, the determining can be performed by the controller 1006.

[0137] Continuing with the above embodiment, the controller 1006 can be configured to perform one or more of the following operations: send a measurement report for inter-RAT handover to LTE mode; and camp on an LTE cell having a higher bandwidth among the plurality of cells by performing RRC connection reestablishment (RRE) in case the network does not perform handover. In an embodiment, the measurement report can be sent by the communication unit 1002 and the UE can camp on the LTE cell by the controller 1006.

[0138] The controller 1006 can be configured to determine, by the controller 1006, a result of calculation of the throughput of each cell based on the bandwidth information and the layer information.

[0139] The controller 1006 can be configured to determine a combination of cells selected from among the plurality of cells based on the calculated throughput. In an embodiment, information related to the combination of cells determined by the network can be sent to the network. In an embodiment, upon receiving the information related to the combination of cells at the communication unit 1002, the controller 1006 can be configured to determine that the combination of cells configured by the network fails to provide the maximum throughput. Upon determining that the combination of cells fails to provide the maximum throughput, the controller 1006 can be configured to send a tracking area update (TAU) request to the network in order to indicate an update of the UE capability. In an embodiment, the TAU request can include a flag set by the UE to correspond to a flag of “Need UE radio capability information update”. In response to sending the TAU request to the network, the UE can be configured to receive an inquiry associated with the UE CA capability from the network through the communication unit 1002 in response to sending the TAU request. Upon receiving the inquiry, the controller 1006 can be configured to process the inquiry and send the updated UE capability to the network through the communication unit 1002. In an embodiment, the updated UE capability can include a reduction in MIMO capability on a frequency band supporting a lower bandwidth, removal of support for EN-DC, and removal of support for a frequency band having a lower bandwidth.

[0140] Although the present disclosure has been described using specific language, it is intended to cover any variations that fall within the spirit or broader scope of the invention. As would be obvious to one skilled in the art, certain features that are described can be utilized independently of other features that are described. The examples given are intended merely to facilitate description of the examples without intent to limit the scope of the disclosure. One skilled in the art will understand that one or more described elements can be combined into a single functional element. Or, certain elements can be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment can be added to another embodiment.

[0141] Although the present disclosure has been described with various embodiments, various changes and modifications can suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. It is intended that the present disclosure encompass any such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for selecting a frequency combination by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising: obtaining, upon detecting a plurality of cells present in a network, bandwidth information and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells, wherein the MIMO layer information indicates a number of MIMO layers within a frequency bandwidth corresponding to each of the plurality of cells; calculating, based on the bandwidth information and the MIMO layer information, a throughput for each of the plurality of cells; determining, based on the calculated throughput, a selected combination of cells from among the plurality of cells; determining that a first cell in the selected combination of cells has more MIMO layers and a lower bandwidth than a second cell in the selected combination of cells; and sending, to the network, a channel state information (CSI) report, wherein the CSI report indicates a lower rank index (RI) for the first cell and the CSI report indicates a higher RI for the second cell.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: upon failing to determine at least one combination of cells that provides a maximum throughput, determining, by the UE, another combination of cells from among the plurality of cells that provides a throughput less than the maximum throughput, wherein determining the other combination of cells comprises: ranking combinations of cells from among the plurality of cells; selecting a higher ranked combination from among the ranked combinations; and selecting a lower ranked combination from among the ranked combinations when failing to connect to any one cell from the higher ranked combination, wherein the lower ranked combination has a next highest rank among the ranked combinations.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: obtaining duplex mode information for each of the plurality of cells; and determining the combination of cells based on the duplex mode information.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: upon determining that a combination of cells configured by the network fails to provide a maximum throughput, sending, by the UE to the network, an updated tracking area update (TAU) request indicating UE capability information; in response to sending the TAU request, receiving, by the UE from the network, a query associated with UE carrier aggregation capability; and in response to receiving the query from the network, sending, by the UE to the network, updated UE capability information. the TAU request includes a flag set by the UE to a flag indicating a need for UE radio capability information update.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, the updated UE capability information includes a MIMO capability reduction on a lower bandwidth frequency band supported compared to another available frequency band from among frequency bands of the combination of cells configured by the network, removal of support for EN-DC, and removal of support for supporting the lower bandwidth frequency band.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein, determining the bandwidth information comprises:

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, in response to determining that Bl measurements of a new radio (NR) cell are configured by the network, determining, by the UE, a bandwidth associated with the NR cell from among the plurality of cells, wherein the UE operates on a maximum component carrier; ​ comparing, by the UE, the bandwidth associated with the NR cell to a bandwidth associated with a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) cell that is part of a previously configured cell combination for the UE; and performing, by the UE, one of: sending B1 measurements associated with the NR cell when it is determined that adding the NR cell to the previously configured cell combination in place of the LTE cell would result in a higher total bandwidth and maximum throughput than the previously configured cell combination; or continuing to operate using the previously configured cell combination when it is determined that adding the NR cell to the previously configured cell combination in place of the LTE cell would result in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput than the previously configured cell combination.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining the bandwidth information includes: determining, by the UE, a bandwidth associated with a New Radio (NR) cell that is part of a previously configured cell combination for the UE; determining, by the UE, a bandwidth associated with a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) cell among the plurality of cells; comparing, by the UE, the bandwidth associated with the NR cell to the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell; and sending, by the UE to the network, an SCGFailurelnfo message to remove the NR cell in response to determining that the bandwidth of the NR cell is less than the bandwidth associated with the LTE cell.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining the bandwidth information further includes: determining, by the UE, a bandwidth associated with a cell among the plurality of cells for which a measurement event is configured by the network, wherein the measurement event is configured by the network for modifying one or more cells that are part of a previously configured cell combination; comparing, by the UE, the bandwidth associated with the cell for which the measurement event is configured to a bandwidth associated with the one or more cells that are part of the previously configured cell combination; performing, by the UE, one of: sending, to the network, a measurement result associated with the cell for which the measurement event is configured when it is determined that adding the cell to the previously configured cell combination in place of the one or more cells that are part of the previously configured cell combination would result in a higher total bandwidth and higher throughput than the previously configured cell combination; and continuing to operate using the previously configured cell combination when it is determined that adding the cell for which the measurement event is configured to the previously configured cell combination in place of the one or more cells that are part of the previously configured cell combination would result in a lower total bandwidth and lower throughput than the previously configured cell combination.

10. The method of claim 1, the method further comprising: receiving, by the UE from the network, a configuration for New Radio (NR) measurements for adding an NR cell in an E-UTRAN New Radio - Dual Connectivity (EN-DC) mode, wherein the UE is operating in a LTE mode and communicating data; determining, by the UE, whether the NR measurements are configured for one or more time division duplex, TDD, bands and one or more frequency division duplex, FDD, bands; upon determining that the NR measurements are configured for the one or more TDD bands and the one or more FDD bands, transmitting, by the UE to the network, a measurement report for the one or more TDD bands.

11. The method of claim 1, determining, by the UE, one or more E-UTRAN New Radio-Dual Connectivity, EN-DC, mode combinations of cells among the plurality of cells by reading a SystemInformationBlockType26a associated with a neighboring Long Term Evolution, LTE, cell among the plurality of cells; upon determining that the one or more EN-DC combinations have a higher bandwidth compared to a previous NR-E-UTRA Dual Connectivity, NE-DC, combination of cells among the plurality of cells, performing, by the UE, one or more of: transmitting, by the UE, a measurement report for an inter-radio access technology, RAT, handover to LTE mode; and camping, by the UE, on an LTE cell among the plurality of cells that is part of the one or more EN-DC combinations and has a higher bandwidth by performing a RRC connection reestablishment, RRE, without the network performing a handover.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, the SystemInformationBlockType26a includes a list of NR bands associated with the EN-DC mode.

13. A user equipment, UE, selecting a frequency combination, the UE comprising: a communication unit; and a controller connected with the communication unit and configured to: upon detecting a plurality of cells present in a network, determine bandwidth information and multiple input multiple output, MIMO, layer information associated with each of the plurality of cells, wherein the MIMO layer information indicates a number of MIMO layers within a frequency bandwidth corresponding to each of the plurality of cells; based on the bandwidth information and the MIMO layer information, calculate a throughput of each of the plurality of cells, determine a selected combination of cells among the plurality of cells based on the calculated throughputs, determine that a first cell in the selected combination of cells has more MIMO layers and a lower bandwidth than a second cell in the selected combination of cells, and transmit, to the network, a channel state information, CSI, report, wherein the CSI report indicates a lower rank index, RI, of the first cell and the CSI report indicates a higher RI of the second cell.

14. The UE of claim 13, wherein, the controller is configured to control to: upon failing to determine at least one combination of cells that provides a maximum throughput, determine another combination of cells among the plurality of cells that provides a throughput less than the maximum throughput, wherein the controller is configured to: rank combinations of cells among the plurality of cells, select a higher ranked combination among the ranked combinations, and selecting a lower ranked combination among the ranked combinations when failing to connect to any one cell from the higher ranked combinations, wherein the lower ranked combination has a next highest rank among the ranked combinations.

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