First next generation radio access network (ng-ran) and wireless communication method thereof

Abstract

A first next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) and its wireless communication method are provided. The method of the first next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) includes: the first NG-RAN performing non-public network (NPN) cell identification at the access layer (AS) level for downlink (DL), wherein the first NG-RAN performing NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​includes at least one of the following: wherein the NPN cell can transmit a synchronization sequence for NPN in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on the initial bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN identifier (ID) is present in NPN access-related information elements (IEs) in broadcast system information about the DL BWP, wherein the DL BWP for NPN is used to transmit SSBs and related system information, or wherein access level permission is transmitted in the system information on the DL BWP for NPN access permission.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of communication systems, and more particularly to a wireless communication device and method capable of providing good communication performance and / or high reliability, such as cell identification in non-public networks. Background Technology

[0002] 5G networks promise to provide high-speed, low-latency, and ultra-reliable communication capabilities to meet the needs of various industries and users. To meet the low-latency and high-reliability requirements of vertical industries and support 5G LAN services, private wireless networks, i.e., non-public networks, are attracting significant attention. 5G non-public networks will elevate Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) to a new level. To implement these non-public network functions on the Radio Access Network (RAN) side, features such as network identification, selection and / or reselection, and access control are required.

[0003] When a User Equipment (UE) attaches to a non-public network, the UE can indicate the selected non-public network identifier and the corresponding Public Land Mobile Network ID (PLMN ID) to the Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). The NG-RAN can then forward the received selected non-public network identifier to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) for service-based subscription authentication. The AMF then notifies the NG-RAN of the authentication result. That is, the NG-RAN does not know whether the UE is a non-public network user or a regular PLMN user until the UE reports the selected non-public network identifier and the AMF notifies the NG-RAN of the authentication result. The NG-RAN can wait for the authentication result while establishing a connection. The NG-RAN does not know when or which neighboring cells are suitable for configuration for the UE. If neighboring cells belonging to the non-public network are far away, or even if there are no cells supporting the non-public network around the UE, blind testing may waste the UE's power. If the NG-RAN is configured with a measurement configuration that lacks non-public network information, an inappropriate measurement configuration may result in longer cell (re)selection times and increased connection failure rates (e.g., handover, connection recovery, dual connectivity establishment, etc.).

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a wireless communication device and method that can address the problems in the prior art, provide cell / subscription identification at the access stratum (AS) level, provide efficient UE mobility restriction switching, provide lower power consumption, provide better resource management, provide service continuity due to mobility, provide lower latency for non-public network membership identification, provide higher reliability for non-public network connections, and / or provide good communication performance. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide a wireless communication device and method that can solve the problems in the prior art, provide cell / subscription identification at the access layer (AS) level, provide efficient UE mobility restriction switching, provide lower power consumption, provide better resource management, provide service continuity due to mobility, provide lower latency for non-public network membership identification, provide higher reliability for non-public network connections, and / or provide good communication performance.

[0006] In a first aspect of the invention, a method for a first next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) includes: the first NG-RAN performing a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access layer (AS) level for a downlink (DL), wherein the first NG-RAN performing the NPN cell identification at the AS level for the DL includes at least one of the following: wherein the NPN cell can transmit a synchronization sequence for the NPN in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on an initial bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN identifier (ID) is present in an NPN access-related information element (IE) in a broadcast system information about a DL BWP, wherein the DL BWP for the NPN is used to transmit an SSB and an associated system information, or wherein an access level license is transmitted in a system information on the DL BWP for NPN access license.

[0007] In a second aspect of the invention, a wireless communication method for a user equipment (UE) includes: the UE receiving from a base station a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access stratum (AS) level for a downlink (DL), and the UE subscribing to a non-public network (NPN) cell at an access stratum (AS) level for an uplink (UL), wherein the UE subscribing to the NPN cell at the AS level for the UL includes at least one of the following: wherein the UE can transmit a preamble sequence for the NPN in a random access channel (RACH) on a UL bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN connection reason is transmitted in a radio resource control (RRC) signaling on the UL BWP, wherein a pre-configured ULBWP for the NPN is used to transmit a normal preamble sequence, or wherein an access class of the UE's NPN is stored in a subscriber identity module (SIM) or universal subscriber identity module (USIM).

[0008] In a third aspect of the invention, a first next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) includes: a memory, a transceiver, and a processor coupled to the memory and the transceiver. The processor is configured to perform non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access layer (AS) level for a downlink (DL), wherein the first NG-RAN performing NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​includes at least one of the following: wherein the NPN cell can transmit a synchronization sequence for NPN in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on an initial bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN identifier (ID) is present in an NPN access-related information element (IE) in a broadcast system information regarding a DL BWP, wherein the DL BWP for NPN is used to transmit an SSB and related system information, or wherein an access level license is transmitted in a system information on the DL BWP for NPN access licensing.

[0009] In a fourth aspect of the invention, a user equipment (UE) includes: a memory, a transceiver, and a processor coupled to the memory and the transceiver. The transceiver is configured to receive from a base station a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access stratum (AS) level for a downlink (DL). The processor is configured for the UE to subscribe to a NPN cell at an access stratum (AS) level for an uplink (UL), wherein the UE subscribing to the NPN cell at the AS level for the UL includes at least one of the following: wherein the UE can transmit a preamble sequence for the NPN in a random access channel (RACH) on a UL bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN connection reason is transmitted in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling on the UL BWP, wherein a pre-configured UL BWP for the NPN is used to transmit a normal preamble sequence, or wherein an access class of the UE's NPN is stored in a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM).

[0010] In a fifth aspect of the invention, thereon a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the above-described method.

[0011] A sixth aspect of this application provides a chip including a processor configured to invoke and run a computer program stored in a memory to cause a device on which the chip is mounted to perform the methods described above.

[0012] A seventh aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, wherein the computer program causes a computer to perform the above-described method.

[0013] An eighth aspect of this application provides a computer program product including a computer program that causes a computer to perform the methods described above.

[0014] A ninth aspect of this application provides a computer program that causes a computer to perform the above-described method. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or related technologies, the accompanying drawings are briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings are only some embodiments of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any prerequisites.

[0016] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a communication control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 1B This is a block diagram of a communication control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a wireless communication method performed by a first NG-RAN according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a wireless communication method performed by a UE according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram of a novel radio mobile communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 9A This is a schematic diagram of a novel radio mobile communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 9B This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of non-public network cell identification according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a block diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The technical aspects, structural features, objectives, and effects of the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specifically, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is only used to describe the purpose of a particular embodiment and is not intended to limit the present invention.

[0031] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A communication control system 1 according to embodiments of the present invention is shown in some embodiments. The communication control system 1 includes a user equipment 10 and a base station 20. The user equipment 10 and the base station 20 can communicate with each other wirelessly or via a wired connection. The base station 20 (e.g., a first next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN)) and the next-generation core network 30 can also communicate with each other wirelessly or via a wired connection. When the communication control system 1 conforms to the New Radio (NR) standard of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the next-generation core network 30 is a back-end service network system and may include Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF), User Plane Functions (UPF), and Session Management Functions (SMF). The user equipment 10 may be a device with non-public network (NPN) capability or a device without NPN capability, but the invention is not limited thereto. The user equipment 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, and a transceiver 13. The processor 11 is coupled to the memory 12 and the transceiver 13. The transceiver 13 of the user equipment 10 is used to transmit signals to the base station 20 so that the user equipment 10 can communicate with the base station 20. Base station 20 may include processor 21, memory 22, and transceiver 23. Processor 21 is coupled to memory 22 and transceiver 23. Processor 11 or 21 may be configured to implement the functions, processes, and / or methods described herein. A layer of the radio interface protocol may be implemented in processor 11 or 21. Memory 12 or 22 is operatively coupled to processor 11 or 21 and stores various information to operate processor 11 or 21. Transceiver 13 or 23 is operatively coupled to processor 11 or 21, and transceiver 13 or 23 transmits and / or receives radio signals.

[0032] Processor 11 or 21 may include application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), other chipsets, logic circuits, and / or data processing devices. Memory 12 or 22 may include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, memory cards, storage media, and / or other storage devices. Transceiver 13 or 23 may include baseband circuitry for processing radio frequency signals. When embodiments are implemented as programs, the techniques described herein can be implemented using modules (e.g., processes, functions, etc.) that perform the functions described herein. Modules may be stored in memory 12 or 22 and executed by processor 11 or 21. Memory 12 or 22 may be implemented within or outside processor 11 or 21, in which case they may be communicatively coupled to processor 11 or 21 via various means known in the art.

[0033] In some embodiments, processor 21 is configured to perform non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access stratum (AS) level for a downlink (DL), wherein the first NG-RAN performing NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​includes at least one of the following: wherein the NPN cell can transmit a synchronization sequence for NPN in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on an initial bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN identifier (ID) is present in an NPN access-related information element (IE) in a broadcast system information about a DL BWP, wherein the DL BWP for NPN is used to transmit an SSB and an associated system information, or wherein an access class license is transmitted in a system information on the DL BWP for NPN access license. This addresses the problems in the prior art by providing cell / subscription identification at the access stratum (AS) level, providing efficient UE mobility restriction switching, providing lower power consumption, providing better resource management, providing service continuity due to mobility, providing lower latency for NPN membership identification, providing higher reliability for NPN connections, and / or providing good communication performance.

[0034] In some embodiments, transceiver 13 is configured to receive from a base station a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access stratum (AS) level for a downlink (DL). Processor 11 is configured for the UE to subscribe to a non-public network (NPN) cell at an access stratum (AS) level for an uplink (UL), wherein the UE subscribing to the NPN cell at the AS level for the UL includes at least one of the following: wherein the UE can transmit a preamble sequence for the NPN in a random access channel (RACH) on a UL bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN connection reason is transmitted in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling on the UL BWP, wherein a pre-configured UL BWP for the NPN is used to transmit a normal preamble sequence, or wherein an access class of the UE's NPN is stored in a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM). This addresses the problems in existing technologies, provides access layer (AS) level cell / subscription identification, provides efficient UE mobility-restricted switching, provides lower power consumption, provides better resource management, provides service continuity due to mobility, provides lower latency for non-public network membership identification, provides higher reliability for non-public network connections, and / or provides good communication performance.

[0035] Figure 2This is a flowchart of a wireless communication method 200 performed by a first NG-RAN according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, method 200 includes: block 202, wherein the first NG-RAN performs a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access layer (AS) level for downlink (DL), wherein the first NG-RAN performing the NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​includes at least one of the following: wherein the NPN cell can transmit a synchronization sequence for NPN in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on an initial bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN identifier (ID) is present in an NPN access-related information element (IE) in a broadcast system information about a DLBWP, wherein the DL BWP for NPN is used to transmit an SSB and an associated system information, or wherein an access level license is transmitted in a system information on the DL BWP for NPN access license. Further, method 200 includes: block 204, receiving an NPN cell subscription at the AS level for uplink (UL) from a user equipment (UE). This addresses the problems in existing technologies, provides access layer (AS) level cell / subscription identification, provides efficient UE mobility-restricted switching, provides lower power consumption, provides better resource management, provides service continuity due to mobility, provides lower latency for non-public network membership identification, provides higher reliability for non-public network connections, and / or provides good communication performance.

[0036] Figure 3This is a flowchart of a wireless communication method 300 performed by a UE according to an embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, method 300 includes: block 302, in which the UE receives from a base station a non-public network (NPN) cell identification at an access stratum (AS) level for a downlink (DL); and block 304, in which the UE subscribes to a non-public network (NPN) cell at an access stratum (AS) level for an uplink (UL), wherein the UE subscribes to the NPN cell at the AS level for the UL, comprising at least one of the following: wherein the UE can transmit a preamble sequence for the NPN in a random access channel (RACH) on a UL bandwidth portion (BWP), wherein an NPN connection reason is transmitted in a radio resource control (RRC) signaling on the UL BWP, wherein a pre-configured UL BWP for the NPN is used to transmit a normal preamble sequence, or wherein an access class of the UE's NPN is stored in a subscriber identity module (SIM) or universal subscriber identity module (USIM). This addresses the problems in existing technologies, provides access layer (AS) level cell / subscription identification, provides efficient UE mobility-restricted switching, provides lower power consumption, provides better resource management, provides service continuity due to mobility, provides lower latency for non-public network membership identification, provides higher reliability for non-public network connections, and / or provides good communication performance.

[0037] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving an NPN cell subscription from a user equipment (UE) at the AS level of the uplink (UL). In some embodiments, the system information includes an NPN access-related information IE, which is a System Information Block 1 (SIB1). In some embodiments, the system information also includes a cell usage IE. In some embodiments, at least one of the NPN access-related information IE and the cell usage IE includes a 1-bit indication for NPN access grant. In some embodiments, cell selection and / or reselection is determined by detecting that the NPN access-related information IE and / or the cell usage IE are set to true.

[0038] In some embodiments, a non-public network (NPN) (also referred to as a non-public network) is a physical or virtual cellular system deployed for the private use of subscribers. NPN is the term used by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) for such networks. NPN is a 5G system (5GS) deployed in two types: Standalone Non-Public Network (SNPN) and Public Network Integrated Non-Public Network (PNI-NPN). SNPNs are operated by NPN operators and do not rely on network functionality provided by a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN). A combination of a PLMN identifier (ID) and a Network Identifier (NID) identifies an SNPN. Optionally, a human-readable network name for each NID can be used for manual NPN selection. PNI-NPNs are integrated with PLMN support. A combination of a PLMN ID and a Closed Access Group Identifier (CAG ID) identifies a PNI-NPN. Optionally, a human-readable network name for each CAG ID can be used for manual NPN selection.

[0039] In some embodiments, to facilitate network (re)connection, the UE may perform measurements for cell (re)selection purposes. Several mechanisms allow NPN cells to impose cell identification at the AS level: 1. NPN cells can transmit a pre-configured synchronization sequence for NPN in the SSB on the Initial Bandwidth Part (BWP). 2. In the broadcast system information (e.g., SIB1) on the downlink (DL) BWP, the NPN ID is present in the NPN access-related information IE (e.g., npn-IdentityInfoList, onboardingAllowed) and the optional cell usage IE (e.g., reservedForOtherUse, reservedForOperatorUse)) set to TRUE. When the cell usage IE is set to TRUE, it indicates that the cell is only for normal service to NPN users. 3. A pre-configured NPN DL BWP is used to transmit normal SSB and related system information. 4. Access class authorization is transmitted in the system information on the DL BWP used for NPN access authorization.

[0040] In some embodiments, the UE can indicate the selected NPN ID and corresponding PLMN ID to the NG-RAN. The NG-RAN can then notify the AMF of the selected NPN ID and PLMN ID. The AMF is responsible for verifying whether the UE is a member of the NPN. This is helpful if NPN membership is initially checked by the RAN node and then used by the AMF for verification. In the case of CAG, the CAG ID is not required to be included in the RRC connection setup. There are several mechanisms to reveal a UE's NPN subscription at the AS level: 1. The UE can transmit a pre-authorized or pre-configured preamble sequence for NPN in the RACH channel on the UL BWP. The RAN node first checks the specific preamble to identify UEs with NPN capability and configures appropriate measurement configurations for UEs with NPN capability. 2. The NPN connection reason is transmitted in the RRC signaling (e.g., RRCSetupRequest, RRCResumeRequest) on the UL BWP. The RAN node first checks the establishment reason based on the NPN information received from the upper layer to identify UEs with NPN capability and configures appropriate measurement configurations for UEs with NPN capability. 3. The UL BWP pre-configured for NPN is used to transmit the normal preamble sequence. The DL BWP for NPN is paired with the pre-configured UL BWP during RACH. When the RAN node receives a specific preamble to identify a UE supporting NPN, it then replies the RACH response on the paired DL NPN BWP. The UE scans the paired DL NPN BWP as cell (re)selection candidates. 4. The UE's NPN access class is stored in the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM), such as a USIM-like module (e.g., the UE SIM card). When the access class license in the received DL BWP system information matches the stored NPN access license access class, the UE attempts to select an NPN cell.

[0041] In some embodiments, based on the NPN subscription identifier described above, the RAN node and UE can quickly identify NPN operations. Regardless of when the AMF notifies the RAN node of the verification results, the RAN node can configure an appropriate measurement configuration for a UE with NPN capabilities. Furthermore, if mobility restrictions are received from the AMF in advance (i.e., before UE handover), the RAN node can configure a more suitable measurement configuration based on the NPN subscription identifier described above. This will help conserve UE resources (e.g., battery power) and improve mobility (e.g., handover, Tracking Area Update (TAU), dual connectivity, etc.). Note that mobility restrictions include a list of allowed CAG / NIDs and an optional CAG-only indication. The list of allowed CAG / NIDs is a list of CAG / NID identifiers that the UE is allowed to access. The RAN node can configure the list of allowed CAG / NIDs to the UE for measurement and cell (re)selection. The CAG-only indication indicates whether the UE is only allowed to access 5GS via CAG cells. When the CAG-only indication is set to true, the RAN node can only configure CAG cells for the UE for measurement and cell (re)selection.

[0042] Figure 4 This is cell identification in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 Note that in some embodiments, under SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources can achieve various services with optimal coverage. See reference... Figure 4 Based on the cell identification mechanism proposed above, UEs with NPN capabilities are configured to camp on SNPN cells or PNI-NPN cells. NPN membership can first be checked by the serving RAN node based on the subscription identifier mechanism proposed above, and then verified by the NG-Core (e.g., AMF). Based on the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier, the serving RAN node and the UE with NPN capabilities can quickly identify NPN operations. Regardless of when the NG-Core notifies the RAN of the verification result, the serving RAN node can configure a suitable measurement configuration with a pre-configured list of NPN cells for the UE with NPN capabilities. This will be beneficial for use cases involving fast cell reselection under low power. Furthermore, if mobility restrictions are received in advance (i.e., before measurement) from the NG-Core, the serving RAN node can use the received list of NPN cells to configure a more suitable measurement configuration. With faster NPN subscription identifiers, the measurement configuration can better reflect the characteristics of the requested service.

[0043] UEs with NPN capabilities that support ultra-reliable and low-latency communication can identify frequently monitored neighboring cells based on the NPN cells described above. Optional manual cell reselection is highly attractive for NPN-enabled UEs in ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) scenarios. For manual cell (re)selection, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the pre-configured NPN cell list but not in the allowed NPN cell list, the NPN-capable UE cannot consider this cell as a cell reselection candidate, but can continue to consider other cells on the same frequency for cell reselection. If the RAN node does not receive any mobility restrictions from the NG-Core due to core network (CN) overload or other reasons, the NPN-capable UE can first consider the cell as a cell reselection candidate, and then the serving RAN node checks the NG-Core's status. In another scenario involving manual cell (re)selection by the UE, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list but not in the pre-configured NPN cell list, then the NPN cell—a capable UE—can consider this cell as a candidate for cell reselection. The NPN-capable UE reports the candidate NPN cell along with the HRNN (if broadcast) for serving RAN node handover triggering and decision-making. Inter-node message exchange is performed between the serving RAN node and the target RAN node. Handover preparation information with UE mobility restrictions (e.g., HandoverPreparationInformation) and a handover command with the proposed NPN cell identification (e.g., HandoverCommand) can be sent during the handover preparation phase. A network-based handover operation with the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier can be applied to the NPN-capable UE, placing the serving NPN cell in the RRC_CONNECTED state.

[0044] Figure 4The illustration depicts cell reselection for network-based intra-core (HO) handover in an NPN in some embodiments. The serving RAN node and the target RAN node can be one of a normal cell, a CAG cell, or an SNPN cell. It is reasonable to allow UEs with SNPN capability to move only between SNPN cells. PNI-NPN-only-capable UEs are only allowed to move between CAG cells. Cell reselection for network-based inter-core (inter-core) HO in an NPN is similar to the description in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference is that the serving NG-Core can transmit the UE's mobility restrictions to the target NG-Core (not shown). Furthermore, if the target NG-Core has the UE's mobility restrictions before receiving them from the serving NG-Core, the target NG-Core can select one of them according to preference.

[0045] Figure 5 The illustration shows cell identification in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 Note that in some embodiments, in the case of SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources will enable various services with optimal coverage. See reference... Figure 5 Based on the cell identification mechanism proposed above, UEs with NPN capabilities are configured to camp on SNPN cells or PNI-NPN cells. NPN membership can first be checked by the serving RAN node based on the proposed subscription identifier mechanism, and then verified by the NG-Core (e.g., AMF). Based on the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier, the serving RAN node and the UE with NPN capabilities can quickly identify NPN operations. Whenever the NG-Core notifies the RAN of the verification result, the serving RAN node can use a pre-configured list of NPN cells to configure appropriate measurement settings for the UE with NPN capabilities. This will be beneficial for use cases involving fast cell reselection under low power conditions.

[0046] Furthermore, if mobility restrictions are received from the NG-Core in advance (i.e., before measurement), the serving RAN node can utilize the received NPN cell list to configure a more suitable measurement configuration. This measurement configuration can be identified through faster NPN subscriptions, better reflecting the characteristics of the requested service. UEs with NPN capabilities supporting ultra-reliable and low-latency communication can frequently monitor neighboring cells based on the aforementioned NPN cell identification configuration. Manual cell reselection by the UE is highly attractive as a URLLC scenario for NPN-enabled UEs. For manual cell (re)selection, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the pre-configured NPN cell list but not in the allowed NPN cell list, the NPN-enabled UE cannot consider this cell as a candidate for cell reselection, but can continue to consider other cells on the same frequency for cell reselection. If the RAN node does not receive any mobility restrictions from the NG-Core due to core network (CN) overload or other reasons, the NPN-enabled UE can first consider the cell as a candidate for cell reselection, and then the serving RAN node checks the NG-Core status later.

[0047] In another scenario involving manual cell (re)selection by the UE, if the optimal cell according to the (re)selection priority rule is an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list but not in the pre-configured NPN cell list, the NPN-enabled UE can consider that cell as a candidate for cell reselection. The NPN-enabled UE triggers the HO procedure and reports the selected target NPN cell along with the HRNN (if broadcast) to the serving RAN node for HO decision-making. Inter-node message exchange occurs between the serving RAN node and the target RAN node. Handover preparation information with UE mobility restrictions (e.g., HandoverPreparationInformation) and a handover command with the proposed NPN cell identification (e.g., HandoverCommand) can be sent during the handover preparation phase. A UE-based handover operation with the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier can be applied to the NPN-enabled UE, placing the serving NPN cell in the RRC_CONNECTED state. Figure 5Cell reselection based on the UE's intra-core HO in an NPN is illustrated in some embodiments. The serving and target RAN nodes can be one of ordinary, CAG, or SNPN cells. It is reasonable to allow only SNPN-capable UEs to move between SNPN cells. PNI-NPN-only-capable UEs are only allowed to move between CAG cells. Cell reselection based on the UE's inter-core HO in an NPN is similar to the description in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference is that the serving NG-Core can transmit the UE's mobility restrictions to the target NG-Core (not shown). Furthermore, if the target NG-Core has the UE's mobility restrictions before receiving them from the serving NG-Core, the target NG-Core can select one of them according to preference.

[0048] Figure 6 The illustration shows cell identification in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 Note that in some embodiments, under SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources can achieve various services with optimal coverage. See reference... Figure 6 Based on the cell identification mechanism proposed above, UEs with NPN capabilities are configured to camp on SNPN or PNI-NPN cells. NPN membership can first be checked by the original RAN node based on the proposed subscription identifier mechanism, and then verified by the NG-Core (e.g., AMF). Based on the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier, the original RAN node and the UE with NPN capabilities can quickly identify NPN operations. Whenever the NG-Core notifies the RAN of the verification result, the original RAN node can use a pre-configured list of NPN cells to configure appropriate measurement settings for the UE with NPN capabilities. This will be beneficial for use cases involving fast cell reselection under low power conditions.

[0049] Furthermore, if mobility restrictions are received from the NG-Core in advance (i.e., before measurement), the serving RAN node can utilize the received NPN cell list to configure a more suitable measurement configuration. The measurement configuration can be identified through faster NPN subscriptions, better reflecting the characteristics of the requested service. UEs with NPN capabilities in the RRC_INACTIVE state, supporting ultra-reliable and low-latency communication, can frequently monitor configured neighboring cells based on the aforementioned NPN cell identifiers. Manual cell reselection by the UE is highly attractive as a URLLC scenario for NPN-enabled UEs. For manual cell (re)selection, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the pre-configured NPN cell list but not in the allowed NPN cell list, the NPN-capable UE cannot consider this cell as a candidate for cell reselection, but can continue to consider other cells on the same frequency for cell reselection.

[0050] For other cases of manual cell (re)selection by the UE, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rule is an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list but not in the pre-configured NPN cell list, the NPN-enabled UE can consider the cell as a candidate for cell reselection. NPN-enabled UEs in the RRC_INACTIVE state send a connection restoration request (e.g., RRCResume) along with a restoration ID, the original NPN cell ID, and a restoration reason. The restoration reason indicates NPN access, thus enabling seamless connection restoration in low-latency communication networks. Inter-node message interaction between the original RAN node and the new RAN node is performed according to at least one of the following: 1. A UE context retrieval request with a restoration ID (e.g., RETRIEVE UE CONTEXT REQUEST) to request the UE context. 2. A UE context retrieval response with the UE context and mobility restrictions (e.g., RETRIEVE UE CONTEXT RESPONSE). Here, the original RAN node can transmit the UE's mobility restrictions to the new RAN node. Furthermore, if the new RAN node has UE mobility restrictions prior to receiving them from the original RAN node, the new RAN node can choose one of them based on preference. 3. UE context release (e.g., UE CONTEXT RELEASE) is used to notify the original RAN node of the UE context release.

[0051] In some embodiments, connection restoration with the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier can be applied to NPN-capable UEs in the RRC_INACTIVE state. Figure 6The illustration shows cell reselection for intra-core connectivity recovery in NPN in some embodiments. The original and new RAN nodes can be one of ordinary, CAG, or SNPN cells. It is reasonable to allow UEs with SNPN capability to recover only between SNPN cells. PNI-NPN-only-capable UEs are only allowed to recover between CAG cells. Cell reselection for inter-core connectivity recovery in NPN is similar to that described in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference is that the original NG-Core may transfer the UE's mobility restrictions to the new NG-Core (not shown). Furthermore, if the new NG-Core had the UE's mobility restrictions before receiving them from the original NG-Core, the new NG-Core can select one of them according to preference.

[0052] Figure 7A A novel radio mobile communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 7A As shown, in some embodiments, the RAN function split architecture allows for network coordination for load management, ultra-reliability and low-latency optimization, and enables network function virtualization / program-defined networking (NFV / SDN) applications. Figure 7A In some embodiments, the new wireless mobile communication system conforms to the specifications of fifth-generation mobile communication technology, including NG-RAN (NG-RAN may be referred to as gNB) and / or NG-core (not shown). The gNB includes a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). A separate F1 interface is established between the CU and the DU, where the F1 interface is a logical interface defined in the fifth-generation mobile communication technology specifications. In some embodiments, the protocol stack of the CU includes an RRC layer, an SDAP layer, and a PDCP layer, while the protocol stack of the DU includes an RLC layer, a MAC layer, and a PHY layer. The F1 interface between the CU and the DU is established between the PDCP layer and the RLC layer of the protocol stack.

[0053] In the case of SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources will ensure optimal coverage for various services. As in the aforementioned embodiments, UEs with NPN capabilities are configured to camp on SNPN or PNI-NPN cells with RAN function splitting based on the cell / subscription identification mechanism proposed above. During mobility and connectivity restoration, cell reselection connectivity restoration via Xn (i.e., intra-core HO, intra-core connectivity restoration) and via NG (i.e., inter-core HO, inter-core connectivity restoration) and gNB-CU is similar to the description in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference lies in the F1 signaling transmission. Taking the network-based Inter-gNB-CU HO via Xn as an example, in... Figure 7A and Figure 7B In this process, the UE context modification request / response handles measurement configuration transmission, while the uplink RRC transmission carries measurement reports between the serving gNB-DU and the serving gNB-CU. Handover preparation information with UE mobility restrictions (e.g., HandoverPreparationInformation) is transmitted from the serving gNB-CU to the target gNB-CU. Furthermore, if the target gNB-CU has UE mobility restrictions prior to receiving them from the serving gNB-CU, it can select one based on preference. After a cell load check between the target gNB-CU and gNB-DU (e.g., UE context setting request / response), the handover command (e.g., HandoverCommand) is transmitted from the target gNB-CU to the serving gNB-CU. For rapid NPN cell / subscription identification during cell load check, a CAG / NID list can be sent via F1 messages. If necessary, downlink RRC transmissions can be used to carry DL RRC messages.

[0054] Figure 8 The illustration shows a cell identifier in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 Note that in some embodiments, in the case of SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources will enable various services with optimal coverage. See reference... Figure 8 Based on the cell identification mechanism proposed above, UEs with NPN capabilities are configured to camp on SNPN or PNI-NPN cells. NPN membership can first be checked by the master node (MN) based on the subscription identification mechanism proposed above, and then verified by the NG-Core (e.g., AMF). Based on the proposed NPN cell / subscription identification, the MN and UEs with NPN capabilities can quickly identify NPN operations. Whenever the NG-Core notifies the RAN of the verification results, the MN can use a pre-configured list of NPN cells to configure a suitable measurement configuration for UEs with NPN capabilities. This is beneficial for use cases that rapidly establish NR multi-connectivity under low power. Furthermore, if mobility restrictions are received from the NG-Core in advance (i.e., before measurement), the MN can use the received list of NPN cells to configure a more suitable measurement configuration. The measurement configuration can better reflect the characteristics of the requested service through faster NPN subscription identification.

[0055] UEs with NPN capabilities that support ultra-reliable and low-latency communication can frequently monitor configured neighboring cells based on the NPN cell identifiers mentioned above. The optional manual cell reselection for UEs is particularly attractive in URLLC scenarios. For manual cell (re)selection, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the pre-configured NPN cell list but not in the allowed NPN cell list, the NPN-capable UE cannot consider this cell as a candidate for measurement reporting, but can continue to consider other cells on the same frequency for cell selection. If the MN is not receiving any mobility restrictions from the NG-Core due to CN overload or other reasons, the NPN-capable UE can first consider this cell as a candidate for measurement reporting, and then the MN checks the NG-Core's status. In another case of manual cell (re)selection, if the best cell according to the (re)selection priority rules is an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list but not in the pre-configured NPN cell list, the NPN-capable UE can consider this cell as a candidate for measurement reporting. The UE supporting the NPN reports candidate NPN cells and the HRNN (if broadcast) to add the SN. Inter-node message exchange occurs between the MN and SN nodes. An SN add request (e.g., CG-ConfigInfo) with UE mobility restrictions and an SN add request acknowledgment (e.g., CG-Config) with the proposed NPN cell identification can be sent for SN addition. Upon receiving the SN add request acknowledgment, the MN sends an RRC connection reconfiguration (e.g., RRCReconfiguration) with the NPN cell ID for SN addition. The UE then sends the RRC connection reconfiguration complete (e.g., RRCReconfigurationComplete) along with an optional SN NPN cell ID to the NAS level. When the NPN SN addition is under the same PLMN, the SN NPN cell ID may not need to be transmitted to the NAS layer. Otherwise, the SN NPN cell ID needs to be transmitted to the NAS level, even if via the MN, SN, or UE. The SN add operation with the proposed NPN cell / subscription identifier can be applied to UEs with NPN capability to establish NR multiple connections in the RRC_CONNECTED state.

[0056] Figure 8The illustration shows cell selection for SN addition in an NPN in some embodiments. The MN and SN nodes can be one of ordinary, CAG, or SNPN cells. It is reasonable to only allow UEs with SNPN capability to establish NR multi-connections between SNPN cells. PNI-NPN-only-capable UEs are only allowed to establish NR multi-connections between CAG cells. SN addition for different PLMNs in an NPN is similar to the description in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference is that the serving PLMN can send the UE's mobility restrictions to the target PLMN (not shown). Furthermore, if the target PLMN has the UE's mobility restrictions before receiving them from the serving PLMN, the target PLMN can select one according to preference. The above scenario will benefit RAN sharing.

[0057] Figure 9A The illustration depicts a novel radio mobile communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 9B The illustration shows cell identification in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, in some embodiments, the RAN function split architecture allows for network coordination for load management, ultra-reliability and low-latency optimization, and enables NFV / SDN applications. For example... Figure 9A As shown, the new wireless mobile communication system conforms to the fifth-generation mobile communication technology specification, including NG-RAN (NG-RAN can be referred to as gNB) and / or NG-Core (5GC). The gNB includes one centralized unit (CU) and multiple distributed units (DUs). An F1 interface is established between the CU and the DU, where the F1 interface is a logical interface defined in the fifth-generation mobile communication technology specification. In some embodiments, the protocol stack of the CU includes an RRC layer, an SDAP layer, and a PDCP layer, while the protocol stack of the DU includes an RLC layer, a MAC layer, and a PHY layer. The F1 interface between the CU and the DU is established between the PDCP layer and the RLC layer of the protocol stack.

[0058] In the case of SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources enables various services with optimal coverage. As described in the above embodiments, a UE with NPN capability is configured to camp on an SNPN or PNI-NPN cell with RAN function splitting based on the cell / subscription identification mechanism proposed above. From the RAN's perspective, the process of adding an NPN SN is similar to the process described in the above embodiments, and therefore will not be repeated. The difference lies in the F1 signaling transmission. See [link to documentation]. Figure 9BThe UE context modification request / response handles measurement configuration and NPN SN add transmissions, while uplink RRC transmissions carry measurement reports between the MN's gNB-DU and gNB-CU. SN add requests with UE mobility restrictions (e.g., CG-ConfigInfo) are sent from the MN's gNB-CU to the SN's gNB-CU. Furthermore, if the SN's gNB-CU has UE mobility restrictions prior to receiving them from the MN's gNB-CU, the SN's gNB-CU can choose one based on preference. After a cell load check (e.g., UE context setting request / response) between the gNB-CU and the SN's gNB-DU, an SN add request acknowledgment (e.g., CG-Config) is sent from the SN's gNB-CU to the MN's gNB-CU. For rapid NPN cell / subscription identification during cell load check, a CAG / NID list can be sent via F1 messages. Downlink RRC transmissions can carry DL RRC messages if needed.

[0059] Figure 10 The illustration shows cell identification in a non-public network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the RAN function split architecture allows for network coordination for load management, ultra-reliability, and low-latency optimization, and supports NFV / SDN applications. For example... Figure 9AAs shown, the new wireless mobile communication system conforms to the fifth-generation mobile communication technology specifications, including NG-RAN (NG-RAN can be referred to as gNB) and / or NG-Core (5GC). The gNB includes a centralized unit (CU) and multiple distributed units (DUs, such as DU1 and DU2). An F1 interface is established between the CU and DU, where the F1 interface is a logical interface defined in the fifth-generation mobile communication technology specifications. In some embodiments, the protocol stack of the CU includes an RRC layer, an SDAP layer, and a PDCP layer, while the protocol stack of the DU includes an RLC layer, a MAC layer, and a PHY layer. The F1 interface between the CU and DU is established between the PDCP layer and the RLC layer of the protocol stack. In the case of SNPN or PNI-NPN, dynamic use of available resources will ensure optimal coverage for various services. As in the aforementioned embodiments, a UE with NPN capability is configured to camp on an SNPN or PNI-NPN cell with RAN function splitting based on the cell / subscription identification mechanism proposed above. In the cases of intra-cell mobility within a gNB-DU via F1 and inter-cell mobility within a gNB-DU via F1 (i.e., HO within a gNB-CU), cell reselection is similar to that described in the above embodiments, and therefore will not be repeated. The difference lies in the F1 signaling transmission.

[0060] Reference Figure 10 The UE context modification request / response handles measurement configuration and RRC connection reconfiguration transmissions, while uplink RRC transmissions carry measurement reports and RRC connection reconfiguration completions between serving gNB-DU1 and serving gNB-CU. A UE context setting request with UE mobility restrictions is sent from serving gNB-CU to target gNB-DU2. The UE context setting response is transmitted from target gNB-DU2 to serving gNB-CU. For fast NPN cell / subscription identification during the HO process, the CAG / NID list can be transmitted via F1 messages. If needed, downlink RRC transmissions can be used to carry DLRRC messages. Upon receiving the UE context setting response, serving gNB-CU sends a UE context modification request with an RRC connection reconfiguration (e.g., RRCReconfiguration) using the NPN cell ID for HO. The UE then sends an RRC connection reconfiguration completion (e.g., RRCReconfigurationComplete) with an optional SN NPN cell ID to the NAS level in an ULRRC transmission. The gNB-CU intra-HO operation with proposed NPN cell / subscription identification can be applied to seamless handover of DU connection for UEs with NPN capability in RRC_CONNECTED state. Figure 10 The illustration shows cell reselection for HO within a gNB-CU in an NPN in some embodiments. gNB-DU1 and gNB-DU2 can be one of ordinary, CAG, or SNPN cells. It is reasonable to allow UEs with SNPN capability to move only between SNPN cells. PNI-NPN-only-capable UEs are only allowed to move between CAG cells. The description of PLMNs with multiple DU connection handovers in an NPN is similar to that in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here. The difference is that the serving PLMN's gNB-CU can transmit the UE's mobility restrictions to the target PLMN's gNB-CU (not shown). In addition, if the target PLMN's gNB-CU has the UE's mobility restrictions before receiving them from the serving PLMN's gNB-CU, the target PLMN's gNB-CU can select one of them according to preference. The above scenario will be beneficial for RAN sharing.

[0061] Some embodiments of the invention offer the following commercial benefits: 1. They address problems in the prior art. 2. They provide access stratum (AS) level cell / subscription identification. 3. They provide efficient UE mobility-restricted switching with lower power consumption. 4. They provide better resource management. 5. They provide service continuity due to mobility. 6. They provide lower latency for non-public network membership identification. 7. They provide higher reliability for non-public network connections. 8. They provide good communication performance. 9. Some embodiments of the invention are applicable to 5G-NR chipset suppliers, V2X communication system development suppliers, automobile manufacturers (including cars, trains, trucks, buses, bicycles, motorcycles, helmets, etc.), drone manufacturers, smartphone manufacturers, public safety communication equipment manufacturers, and AR / VR device manufacturers (e.g., for gaming, conferences / seminars, educational purposes). Some embodiments of the invention are combinations of "technologies / processes" that can be adopted in 3GPP specifications to create the final product. Some embodiments of the invention can be adopted in 5G NR licensed and unlicensed or shared spectrum communications. Some embodiments of the invention propose technical mechanisms.

[0062] Figure 11 This is a block diagram of a system 700 for wireless communication according to an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiments described herein can be implemented in the system using any suitably configured hardware and / or program. Figure 11An example system 700 for one embodiment is shown, comprising radio frequency (RF) circuitry 710, baseband circuitry 720, application circuitry 730, memory / storage device 740, display 750, camera 760, sensor 770, and input / output (I / O) interface 780, all of which are coupled to each other at least as shown. The application circuitry 730 may include, for example, but not limited to, circuitry of one or more single-core or multi-core processors. The processor may include any combination of a general-purpose processor and a dedicated processor such as a graphics processor, application processor, etc. The processor may be coupled to the memory / storage device and configured to execute instructions stored in the memory / storage device to enable various applications and / or operating systems running on the system.

[0063] The baseband circuit 720 may include, for example, but not limited to, circuitry of one or more single-core or multi-core processors. The processor may include a baseband processor. The baseband circuitry can handle various radio control functions that enable communication with one or more radio networks via RF circuitry. Radio control functions may include, but are not limited to, signal modulation, encoding, decoding, RF shifting, etc. In some embodiments, the baseband circuitry can provide communication compatible with one or more radio technologies. For example, in some embodiments, the baseband circuitry may support communication with the Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (EUTRAN) and / or other Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks (WMAN), Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN), and Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPAN). Embodiments in which the baseband circuitry is configured to support radio communication with more than one radio protocol may be referred to as a multi-mode baseband circuitry.

[0064] In various embodiments, the baseband circuit 720 may include circuitry that operates with a signal not strictly considered to be at the baseband frequency. For example, in some embodiments, the baseband circuitry may include circuitry that operates with a signal having an intermediate frequency (IF) between the baseband frequency and the radio frequency (RF). The RF circuitry 710 may use modulated electromagnetic radiation transmitted through a non-solid-state medium to achieve communication with a wireless network. In various embodiments, the RF circuitry may include switches, filters, amplifiers, etc., to facilitate communication with a wireless network. In various embodiments, the RF circuitry 710 may include circuitry that operates with a signal not strictly considered to be at the radio frequency (RF). For example, in some embodiments, the RF circuitry may include circuitry that operates with a signal having an intermediate frequency (IF) between the baseband frequency and the RF.

[0065] In various embodiments, the transmitter circuitry, control circuitry, or receiver circuitry discussed above with respect to user equipment, eNB, or gNB may be wholly or partially embodied in one or more of the RF circuitry, baseband circuitry, and / or application circuitry. As used herein, “circuit” may refer to, be part of, or include: a special-purpose integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuitry, a processor (shared, dedicated, or grouped) and / or memory (shared, dedicated, or grouped), combinational logic circuitry, and / or other suitable hardware elements that provide the described functionality. In some embodiments, the electronic device circuitry may be implemented in one or more program or firmware modules, or the functionality associated with the circuitry may be implemented by one or more program or firmware modules. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the baseband circuitry, application circuitry, and / or memory / storage device may be implemented together on a system-on-a-chip (SOC). The memory / storage device 740 may be used to load and store, for example, messages and / or instructions for the system. The memory / storage device used in one embodiment may include any combination of suitable volatile memory such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and / or non-volatile memory such as flash memory.

[0066] In various embodiments, I / O interface 780 may include one or more user interfaces designed to enable user interaction with the system, and / or peripheral interface designed to enable peripheral components to interact with the system. User interfaces may include, but are not limited to, physical keyboards or keypads, touchpads, speakers, microphones, etc. Peripheral interface may include, but are not limited to, non-volatile memory ports, universal serial bus (USB) ports, audio jacks, and power interfaces. In various embodiments, sensor 770 may include one or more sensing devices to determine environmental conditions and / or location information related to the system. In some embodiments, the sensor may include, but is not limited to, a gyroscope sensor, an accelerometer, a proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor, and a positioning unit. The positioning unit may also be part of or interact with baseband and / or RF circuitry to communicate with components of a positioning network, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites.

[0067] In various embodiments, display 750 may include displays such as liquid crystal displays and touch screen displays. In various embodiments, system 700 may be a mobile computing device, such as, but not limited to, laptop computing devices, tablet computing devices, netbooks, ultrabooks, smartphones, etc. In various embodiments, the system may have more or fewer components and / or different architectures. Where appropriate, the methods described herein may be implemented as computer programs. Computer programs may be stored on storage media such as non-transitory storage media.

[0068] Those skilled in the art will understand that each of the units, algorithms, and steps described and disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure is implemented using electronic hardware or a combination of a program and electronic hardware for a computer. Whether the function is executed in hardware or program depends on the conditions of the application and the design requirements of the technical plan. Those skilled in the art can implement the functionality for each specific application in different ways, and such implementations should not exceed the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that they can refer to the operation of the systems, devices, and units in the embodiments mentioned above, as the operation of the systems, devices, and units mentioned above is substantially the same. For ease of description and simplicity, these operation processes will not be described in detail.

[0069] It should be understood that the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in other ways. The above embodiments are merely exemplary. The division of units is based solely on logical function, while other divisions may exist in practice. It is possible for multiple units or elements to be combined or integrated in another system. Certain features may also be omitted or skipped. On the other hand, the mutual coupling, direct coupling, or communication coupling shown or discussed operates through some ports, apparatuses, or units, whether indirectly or communicatively by means of electrical, mechanical, or other kinds of means. Units used for illustration as separate elements may or may not be physically separate. Units used for display may or may not be physical units, i.e., located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units are used according to the purpose of the embodiments. Furthermore, each functional unit in each embodiment may be integrated into a processing unit, physically independent, or integrated into a processing unit together with two or more units.

[0070] If a program functional unit is implemented and used and sold as a product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium in a computer. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure can be implemented substantially or partially as a program product. Alternatively, a portion of a technical solution that is advantageous to conventional technology can be implemented as a program product. The program product in the computer is stored in a storage medium containing multiple commands for a computing device (e.g., a personal computer, server, or network device) to execute all or some of the steps disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure. The storage medium includes a USB flash drive, a portable hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a floppy disk, or other types of media capable of storing program code.

[0071] While this disclosure has been described in conjunction with embodiments considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover various arrangements made without departing from the broadest interpretation of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A wireless communication method for accessing and activating a non-public network NPN via a first next-generation wireless access network (NG-RAN), characterized in that, include: The first NG-RAN sends an NPN cell identification at the access layer AS level to the user equipment (UE), wherein the NPN cell identification at the AS level includes at least one of the following: The synchronization sequence of the NPN is sent by the NPN cell in one or more synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) on the initial BWP; In the broadcast system information about DL BWP, the NPN identifier ID exists in the NPN access related information element IE, and the NPN access license exists in the cell usage IE; The DL BWP used for NPN is used to transmit SSB and related system information; or The access level license is transmitted in the system information on the DL BWP used for NPN access licensing.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, When the first NG-RAN receives a mobility restriction from the NG-Core before the UE handover, the first NG-RAN can configure the measurement configuration based on the UE's NPN cell subscription at the AS level for uplink UL.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, It also includes controlling a UE with NPN capability to identify the NPN cell and configure measurement settings according to the NPN cell identification as indicated by the NPN cell list.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, It also includes controlling UEs with NPN capabilities to camp in independent non-public network SNPN cells or public network integrated non-public network PNI-NPN cells based on UE manual cell selection and / or reselection.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, For UE manual cell selection and / or reselection, if the best cell according to the selection and / or reselection priority rules is an NPN cell in the NG-RAN pre-configured NPN cell list and is not an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list, then the UE with NPN capability excludes the best cell as a candidate for cell reselection and continues to perform cell reselection on the same frequency.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, For UE manual cell selection and / or reselection, if the best cell determined according to at least one selection priority rule and reselection priority rule is an NPN cell in the allowed NPN cell list and not an NPN cell in the NG-RAN pre-configured NPN cell list, then the UE with NPN capability will regard the best cell as a candidate for cell reselection.

7. The method of claim 4, wherein, When the UE is a UE with only SNPN capability, the UE with only SNPN capability moves between SNPN cells, and / or when the UE is a UE with only PNI-NPN capability, the UE with only PNI-NPN capability moves between CAG cells.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, NPN membership is checked by one or more RAN nodes, including the first NG-RAN, and verified by NG-Core.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, Cell selection and / or reselection is determined by detecting the NPN access-related information element (IE) and / or the setting of the cell's IE usage to true.

10. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first NG-RAN controls the UE with NPN capability to report one or more candidate NPN cells and / or human-readable network names (HRNNs), and the first NG-RAN is configured to trigger and decide on handover based on the one or more candidate NPN cells and / or the HRNNs.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first NG-RAN is configured to perform inter-node message exchange, and the inter-node message exchange occurs between the first NG-RAN and the second NG-RAN.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Handover preparation information with the UE's mobility restrictions and a handover command with the NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​can be sent during the handover preparation phase.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first NG-RAN is configured to control the NPN-capable UE in an RRC inactive state to send an RRC message with a recovery ID, original NPN cell ID and / or recovery reason.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, For a UE with NPN capability that is in the RRC inactive state, connection recovery of the NPN cell subscription at the AS level for UL can be applied.

15. The method of claim 2, wherein, The first NG-RAN used as a gNB includes a centralized unit (CU) and one or more distributed units (DUs), and an F1 interface is defined between the CU and the one or more DUs.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, During mobility and connectivity restoration, cell reselection between gNB-CUs via the Xn interface and between gNB-CUs via the NG interface is based on the NPN cell identification at the AS level used for DL.

17. The method of claim 3, wherein, The first NG-RAN is configured to control the NPN-capable UE to camp on an SNPN cell or a PNI-NPN cell with RAN function splitting based on the AS level of UL.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, After the cell load check process between the target gNB-CU and the target gNB-DU, a handover command is sent from the target gNB-CU to the serving gNB-CU.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The CAG list and / or NID list can be transmitted via the F1 interface during cell load check for the NPN cell identification at the AS level used for DL, and / or downlink RRC transmission can be used to carry DL RRC information.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein, Inter-node message exchange is performed between the master node MN and the auxiliary node SN, which serves as the second NG-RAN.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein, It can send an SN add request with the mobility restrictions of the UE and an SN add request confirmation with the NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​for SN add.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein, Upon receiving confirmation of the SN addition request, the MN sends an RRC connection reconfiguration with the NPN cell ID used for SN addition.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein, The MN is configured to control the UE to send an RRC connection reconfiguration completion message with NPN cell subscription and / or an SN NPN cell ID to the non-access stratum (NAS) level.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein, The SN addition can be applied to establish new radio NR multiple connections in the RRC connection state of the UE with NPN capability.

25. The method of claim 21, wherein, The SN add request with the mobility restriction of the UE is sent from the gNB-CU of the MN to the gNB-CU of the SN.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein, The gNB-CU intra-handover operation and the NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL ​​can be applied to UEs with the NPN capability to switch DU connections in RRC connection state, and / or between PLMNs with multiple DU connection handovers in the NPN based on the NPN cell identification at the AS level for DL.

27. A first Next Generation Radio Access Network NG-RAN, characterized by, include: Memory; transceiver; as well as The processor is coupled to the memory and the transceiver; The processor is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 26.

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