Cell change method, master node and user equipment

Abstract

The disclosure provides a cell change method, a master node and a user equipment, and relates to the technical field of wireless communication. The master node respectively sends a secondary node addition request signaling to one or more secondary nodes, the secondary node addition request signaling carrying first continuous CPAC indication information; receives secondary node feedback secondary node addition request response signaling, the secondary node addition request response signaling carrying second continuous CPAC indication information; and sends a radio resource control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying continuous CPAC configuration information. The user equipment continuously performs CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information, reduces the signaling overhead and delay of the primary and secondary cell (PSCell) change process in the MR-DC scenario, and improves the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular to a cell switching method, a master node, and a user equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With the continued commercial deployment of 5G (5th Generation) mobile communication networks, low-frequency spectrum resources are nearing saturation, and network evolution is moving towards higher frequency bands. To ensure basic user coverage, operators will deploy large-scale MR-DC (Multi-Radio Access Technology Dual Connectivity) architectures, configuring high-frequency cells as secondary cell groups, taking into account the transmission characteristics of high-frequency millimeter waves. This approach fully utilizes the coverage characteristics of low frequencies and the capacity characteristics of high frequencies, ensuring network coverage while improving system capacity. For high-frequency cells (such as millimeter-wave cells) in the network, their coverage radius is relatively small. To ensure a good user service experience for emerging 5G applications and to guarantee reliable and consistent service, it is necessary to enhance MR-DC scenarios and mobility-related mechanisms in NR (New Radio) systems.

[0003] 3GPP introduced the CPAC (Conditional PScell ​​Addition or Change) mechanism, allowing the network to configure multiple candidate PSCells (Primary Secondary Cells) for User Equipment (UE). The UE then evaluates the conditions for PSCell change execution, and when one or more conditions are met, it directly initiates a random access procedure to the target PSCell. However, current standards stipulate that after a UE performs random access to the target PScell, the CPAC configuration needs to be released. This means that after completing one PSCell add or change, the UE must wait for the network to reconfigure before it can perform the next PSCell change. Considering the future deployment of high-frequency cells, frequent PSCell changes will lead to a decline in user experience and increased signaling overhead. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the master node sends continuous CPAC configuration information to the user equipment, enabling the user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information, thereby reducing the signaling overhead and latency of PSCell process changes in MR-DC scenarios and improving user experience.

[0005] This disclosure provides a cell changing method, executed by a master node, comprising:

[0006] Send a secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively, wherein the secondary node add request signaling carries first continuous CPAC indication information;

[0007] The auxiliary node add request response signaling is received from the auxiliary node, and the auxiliary node add request response signaling carries the second continuous CPAC indication information;

[0008] Send Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, wherein the RRC reconfiguration signaling carries continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0009] In some embodiments, before sending secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively, the method further includes:

[0010] The system receives a secondary node change request signaling sent by a source secondary node. This signaling carries continuous condition primary / secondary cell change CPC indication information, which includes at least one of the following:

[0011] The continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC request;

[0012] The target secondary node list contains one or more next-generation radio access network node IDs;

[0013] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0014] The maximum number of times CPC can be executed consecutively.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a secondary node change confirmation signaling to the source secondary node, the secondary node change confirmation signaling carrying a list of candidate PSCells accepting the request, specifically including one or more PScell ​​IDs.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0017] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request;

[0018] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0019] The maximum number of times CPAC can be executed consecutively.

[0020] In some embodiments, the second continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0021] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0022] The current secondary node reserves resources for the maximum time specified by the user equipment.

[0023] In some embodiments, the continuous CPAC configuration information includes one or more of the following:

[0024] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request;

[0025] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0026] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0027] Measurement configuration for each candidate PSCell;

[0028] The execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell.

[0029] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0030] Send a secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes, the secondary node modification request signaling carrying at least one of the following information: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current one is a continuous CPAC modification request; a candidate PCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; the maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0031] The system receives a secondary node modification request confirmation signaling from a secondary node. The secondary node modification request confirmation signaling includes at least one of the following information: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current feedback is a continuous CPAC modification; a candidate PScell ​​list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; the measurement configuration corresponding to each PSCell; and the execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0032] In some embodiments, the method further includes the following steps before sending the secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes:

[0033] Receive a secondary node modification request signaling sent by the source secondary node, wherein the secondary node modification request signaling includes at least one of the following: continuous CPC indication information, indicating that the current time is a continuous CPC modification request; the maximum number of consecutive CPC executions; and a candidate PSCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs.

[0034] After receiving the RRC reconfiguration completion message from the user equipment, a secondary node modification confirmation signaling is sent to the source secondary node. The secondary node modification confirmation signaling contains a list of candidate PSCells.

[0035] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0036] Sending RRC reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying at least one of the following information:

[0037] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC;

[0038] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0039] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0040] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0041] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0042] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0043] When one of the following conditions is met, a conditional primary / secondary cell change cancellation signaling is sent to one or more secondary nodes to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PSCell-related configuration or resources:

[0044] The user equipment has reached its maximum number of CPAC executions.

[0045] The current time is the maximum value of the resources reserved for the current user equipment at the secondary node;

[0046] The master node decides to release the current dual-connection architecture of the user device.

[0047] In some embodiments, the continuous CPAC configuration information is used to instruct the user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information, which is generated by integrating various second continuous CPAC indication information.

[0048] This disclosure provides a cell changing method, executed by a user equipment, comprising:

[0049] The system receives Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node. The RRC reconfiguration signaling carries continuous CPAC configuration information, which includes one or more of the following: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request; the maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; a candidate PSCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; the measurement configuration corresponding to each candidate PSCell; and the execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell.

[0050] CPAC is executed continuously according to the continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0051] In some embodiments, it also includes:

[0052] Receive RRC reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node, wherein the RRC reconfiguration signaling carries at least one of the following information: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration is a continuous CPAC modification; the maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; a candidate PSCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; the measurement configuration corresponding to each PSCell; and the execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0053] CPAC is executed continuously based on the modified continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0054] In some embodiments, the method further includes: if the number of consecutive CPAC executions reaches the maximum value, releasing the current consecutive CPAC configuration information and sending an indication message to the master node that the number of consecutive CPAC executions has reached the maximum value.

[0055] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a master node including: a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to execute a cell change method based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0056] Some embodiments of this disclosure propose a master node configured as a module to perform a cell change method.

[0057] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a user equipment including: a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to perform a cell changing method based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0058] Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a user equipment module configured to perform a cell changing method.

[0059] Some embodiments of this disclosure propose a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of a cell changing method. Attached Figure Description

[0060] The accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. This disclosure can be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0062] Figure 1 A schematic flowchart illustrating a cell changing method according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0063] Figure 2 A schematic flowchart illustrating a cell changing method according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0064] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell change method triggered by a master node according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0065] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell change method triggered by a secondary node according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0066] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a user equipment according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0067] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a user equipment according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0068] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a master node is shown for some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0069] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a master node is shown for some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0070] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a communication system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. For clarity and brevity, not all features of the embodiments are described in the specification. However, it should be understood that many implementation-specific settings must be made in carrying out the embodiments to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with constraints related to the device and business, and these constraints may vary depending on the implementation. Furthermore, it should be understood that while development work can be very complex and time-consuming, such development work is merely a routine task for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure.

[0072] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0073] Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the embodiments of this disclosure are only used to distinguish different steps, devices, or modules, and do not represent any specific technical meaning, nor do they indicate a necessary logical order between them.

[0074] It should also be understood that in the embodiments disclosed herein, "a plurality of" may refer to two or more, and "at least one" may refer to one, two or more.

[0075] It should also be understood that any component, data or structure mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure can generally be understood as one or more unless expressly defined or given to the contrary in the context.

[0076] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure will be explained below.

[0077] MCG: Master Cell group;

[0078] SCG: Secondary Cell group;

[0079] MCG and SCG are concepts under Dual connectivity (DC). The group (Group) of the cell that the UE first initiates random access to is in is the MCG.

[0080] PCell: Primary Cell;

[0081] SCell: Secondary Cell;

[0082] PSCell: Primary Secondary Cell;

[0083] Under an MCG (Multi-Cell Group), there may be many cells, one of which is used to initiate initial access; this cell is called the PCell (Primary Cell). As the name suggests, the PCell is the most "primary" cell in the MCG. The PCell under the MCG and the SCell (Secondary Cell) under the MCG are combined together using carrier aggregation (CA) technology.

[0084] Under SCG, there is also a primary cell, namely PSCell (Primary Secondary Cell), which can be understood as the cell that initiates the initial access under SCG. The PSCell under SCG and the SCell under SCG are combined through CA technology.

[0085] In MR-DC, DC refers to the operating mode where the UE is connected to two base stations, while MR refers to various RATs (Radio Access Technologies). For example, in one type of MR-DC technology, the UE is connected to an eNB (4G base station) and a gNB (5G base station).

[0086] In MR-DC, base station nodes whose control plane is directly connected to the core network are called MN (Master Node), and base station nodes whose control plane is not directly connected to the core network are called SN (Secondary Node).

[0087] Depending on the two base stations connected to the UE, MR-DC includes several specific modes such as EN-DC, NE-DC, and NR-DC. EN-DC, or LTE-NR DC, uses an LTE (Long Term Evolution) base station as the primary node and a 5G NR (New Radio) base station as the secondary node. NE-DC, or NR-LTE DC, uses an NR base station as the primary node and an LTE base station as the secondary node. NR-DC, or NR-NR DC, uses NR base stations as both the primary and secondary nodes. SgNB represents the secondary node in EN-DC, and SN represents the secondary node in either NE-DC or NR-DC.

[0088] This disclosure proposes a scheme for executing continuous CPAC in an MR-DC scenario. It supports the MN or SN to trigger the continuous CPAC mechanism, and coordinates and interacts between base stations for continuous CPAC configuration. Finally, it configures the configuration to the user equipment, so that the user equipment can continuously execute the PSCell change process in the pre-configured candidate PSCell set, thereby reducing the signaling overhead and latency of the PSCell change process in the MR-DC scenario and improving the user experience.

[0089] The continuous CAPC process referred to in the embodiments of this disclosure also refers to selective activation (such as Selective Activation), selective activation of primary and secondary cells (such as Selective Activation of PSCells), or selective activation of secondary cell groups (such as Selective Activation of SCGs). Essentially, these are all technical solutions for the UE to perform continuous changes in primary and secondary cells based on pre-configuration.

[0090] The solution disclosed in this embodiment can be applied to dual connectivity scenarios of high-frequency millimeter waves. The primary base station uses low frequency to ensure coverage, while the secondary base station uses high frequency to improve capacity. As the application frequency increases, the coverage radius of the secondary cell decreases. Users will frequently trigger the primary and secondary cell (PSCell) change process during movement. Applying this solution can effectively reduce the signaling overhead and latency of primary and secondary cell changes, improve the flexibility of primary and secondary cell changes, and enhance the user service experience.

[0091] This embodiment of the disclosure enables the MN and SN nodes to fully exchange the necessary information required for continuous CPAC configuration, assisting the MN in generating an RRC (Radio Resource Control) configuration containing continuous CPAC configuration information, so that the user equipment can quickly and flexibly continuously execute the PSCell change process, thereby saving signaling overhead and reducing PSCell change latency.

[0092] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell changing method according to some embodiments of this disclosure. This cell changing method is also known as a continuous condition primary / secondary cell addition or modification CPAC (or selective activation of secondary cell group, or selective activation of primary / secondary cell) method.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the cell changing method of this embodiment includes steps 110-130, and may also include one or more of steps 140 or 150 as needed.

[0094] In step 110, the master node sends a secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively. The secondary node add request signaling carries the first continuous CPAC indication information (or the first selective activation indication information).

[0095] For ease of description, the following uses selective activation to describe the selective activation of secondary cell groups or the selective activation of primary and secondary cell mechanisms.

[0096] The first continuous CPAC indication information (or first selective activation indication information) includes one or more of the following:

[0097] Continuous CPAC (or selective activation) indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPAC (or selective activation) request.

[0098] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0099] The maximum number of times CPAC (or selective activation) can be executed consecutively.

[0100] A primary or secondary node can trigger a continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration process. When the primary node triggers, the candidate PSCell list may be suggested by the primary node, for example; when the source secondary node triggers, the candidate PSCell list may be suggested by the source secondary node, for example. When the source secondary node triggers, before the primary node sends secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively, it receives secondary node change request signaling sent by the source secondary node. The secondary node change request signaling carries continuous condition primary / secondary cell change CPC (or selective activation) indication information. The continuous condition primary / secondary cell change CPC (or selective activation) indication information includes at least one of the following: continuous CPC (or selective activation) indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPC (or selective activation); a target secondary node list containing one or more Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) node IDs; a candidate PSCell list containing one or more PSCell IDs; and the maximum number of consecutive CPC (or selective activation) executions. Then, after the master node executes step 120, it also sends a secondary node change confirmation signaling to the source secondary node. The secondary node change confirmation signaling carries a list of candidate PSCells that accept the request, specifically including one or more PScell ​​IDs.

[0101] In step 120, the master node receives a secondary node add request response signaling from the secondary node, the secondary node add request response signaling carrying second continuous CPAC indication information (or second selective activation indication information).

[0102] The second continuous CPAC (or selective activation) indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0103] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PScell ​​IDs;

[0104] The current secondary node reserves resources for the maximum time specified by the user equipment.

[0105] The candidate PSCell list in the second continuous CPAC (or second selective activation) indication information is a list of PSCells that can accept continuous CPAC (or selective activation) requests.

[0106] In step 130, the master node sends Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information.

[0107] The continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information is used to instruct the user equipment to continuously execute the CPAC (or selective activation) process based on the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information. The master node generates the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information by integrating each second continuous CPAC (or second selective activation) instruction information.

[0108] The continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information includes one or more of the following:

[0109] Continuous CPAC (or selective activation) indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPAC (or selective activation) request.

[0110] The maximum number of times CPAC (or Selective Activation) can be executed consecutively;

[0111] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0112] Measurement configuration for each candidate PSCell;

[0113] The execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell.

[0114] The candidate PSCell list in the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information can be obtained, for example, by integrating the candidate PSCell lists in each second continuous CPAC (or selective activation) indication information.

[0115] In step 140, the user equipment continuously executes CPAC according to the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information.

[0116] If the number of times the user equipment executes the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) process does not reach the maximum value, it does not need to release the CPAC (or selective activation) configuration after each execution of CPAC (or selective activation). Instead, it saves the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information and continuously executes CPAC (or selective activation) according to the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information.

[0117] When a user device reaches the maximum number of consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) executions, it releases the current consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information and sends an indication message to the master node that the maximum number of consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) executions has been reached, so that the master node can notify the corresponding slave nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources.

[0118] In step 150, when one of the following conditions is met, the primary node sends a conditional primary / secondary cell change cancellation signaling to one or more secondary nodes to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources.

[0119] These situations include: the user device has reached its maximum number of CPAC (or selective activation) executions; the current time has reached the maximum number of resources reserved by the secondary node for the current user device; and the primary node has decided to release the user device's current dual-connection architecture.

[0120] In the above embodiments, the master node and the slave node exchange the information required for continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration, generate continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information, and send the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information to the user equipment, so that the user equipment continuously executes CPAC (or selective activation) based on the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information, reducing the signaling overhead and latency of PSCell changing the process in MR-DC scenarios, and improving the user experience.

[0121] Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell changing method according to some embodiments of this disclosure. This cell changing method is also known as a continuous condition primary / secondary cell addition or modification CPAC (or selective activation of secondary cell group, or selective activation of primary / secondary cell) method.

[0122] like Figure 2 As shown, the cell changing method of this embodiment includes the following steps 210-230, and may also include one or more of steps 240 or 250 as needed.

[0123] For ease of description, the following uses selective activation to describe the selective activation of secondary cell groups or the selective activation of primary and secondary cell mechanisms.

[0124] In step 210, the master node sends a secondary node modification request signaling to one or more secondary nodes.

[0125] The auxiliary node modification request signaling carries at least one of the following information:

[0126] Continuous CPAC (or selective activation) indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPAC (or selective activation) modification request.

[0127] A list of candidate PCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0128] The maximum number of times CPAC (or selective activation) can be executed consecutively.

[0129] The candidate PCell list in the auxiliary node modification request signaling is, for example, the PSCell involved in the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration modification, such as adding, modifying or canceling the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration of one or more PSCells.

[0130] The primary or secondary node can trigger a continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration modification process. When the primary node triggers it, the candidate PCell list in the secondary node's modification request signaling can be, for example, suggested by the primary node; when the secondary node triggers it, the candidate PCell list in the secondary node's modification request signaling can be, for example, suggested by the secondary node.

[0131] When a secondary node is triggered, before the primary node sends a secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes, it also receives a secondary node modification request signaling sent by the source secondary node. The secondary node modification request signaling includes at least one of the following: continuous CPC (or selective activation) indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPC (or selective activation) modification request; the maximum number of consecutive CPC (or selective activation) executions; a candidate PSCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; after receiving the RRC reconfiguration completion message from the user equipment, the primary node sends a secondary node modification confirmation signaling to the source secondary node, which includes the candidate PSCell list.

[0132] In step 220, the master node receives the confirmation signaling of the slave node's modification request from the slave node.

[0133] The secondary node's request for acknowledgment signaling includes at least one of the following:

[0134] Continuous CPC (or selective activation) indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPC (or selective activation) modification feedback;

[0135] A list of candidate PScells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0136] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0137] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0138] The candidate PSCell list in the secondary node request confirmation signaling is a PSCell that can accept continuous CPC (or selective activation) modifications.

[0139] In step 230, the master node sends an RRC reconfiguration signaling message to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling message carrying at least one of the following information:

[0140] Continuous CPAC (or Selective Activation) indication information indicates that the current configuration modification is a continuous CPAC (or Selective Activation) modification.

[0141] The maximum number of times CPAC (or Selective Activation) can be executed consecutively;

[0142] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0143] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0144] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0145] The candidate PSCell list in the RRC reconfiguration signaling can be obtained, for example, by integrating the candidate PSCell lists in the modification request confirmation signaling of each secondary node.

[0146] In step 240, the user equipment continuously executes CPAC (or selective activation) according to the modified continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information.

[0147] If the number of consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) executions by the user equipment has not reached the maximum value, each time CPAC (or selective activation) is executed, the CPAC (or selective activation) configuration does not need to be released. Instead, the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information is saved, and CPAC (or selective activation) is executed continuously according to the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information.

[0148] When a user device reaches the maximum number of consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) executions, it releases the current consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information and sends an indication message to the master node that the maximum number of consecutive CPAC (or selective activation) executions has been reached, so that the master node can notify the corresponding slave nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources.

[0149] In step 250, when one of the following conditions is met, the primary node sends a conditional primary / secondary cell change cancellation signaling to one or more secondary nodes to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources.

[0150] These situations include: the user device has reached its maximum number of CPAC (or selective activation) executions; the current time has reached the maximum number of resources reserved by the secondary node for the current user device; and the primary node has decided to release the user device's current dual-connection architecture.

[0151] In the above embodiments, the master node and the slave node interact to modify the information required for continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration, modify the continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information, and send it to the user equipment. This allows the user equipment to continuously execute CPAC (or selective activation) according to the modified continuous CPAC (or selective activation) configuration information, thereby reducing the signaling overhead and latency of PSCell change process in MR-DC scenarios and improving user experience.

[0152] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell change method triggered by a master node according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0153] like Figure 3 As shown, the cell change method triggered by the master node in this embodiment includes the following steps.

[0154] Step 310: The UE reports a measurement report to the MN.

[0155] Step 320: Based on the received measurement report, the actual deployment scenario, and the mobility characteristics of the UE, the MN decides whether to configure the UE to perform continuous CPAC mechanism. If so, it selects one or more candidate SNs according to the measurement report, such as C-SN1 and C-SN2 as shown in the figure, and sends auxiliary node addition request signaling to the candidate SNs respectively, such as SN / SgNBAddition Request signaling. This signaling carries the first continuous CPAC indication information, that is, continuous CPAC related information.

[0156] The first continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0157] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPAC request, such as Frequent CPAC information or selective activation information.

[0158] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs suggested by the MN. The MN filters the PSCell IDs based on the measurement reports reported by the UE, which helps the candidate SN select the final set of candidate PSCells.

[0159] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions, i.e., the number of consecutive CPAC executions recommended by the MN: such as 2, 4, 8, 16 or other empirical values, assists the candidate SN in making access control judgments. For example, when the number of consecutive CPAC executions recommended by the MN is large, it means that the candidate SN may need to reserve resources for the UE for a longer period of time. If the current candidate SN resources are relatively tight, the consecutive CPAC request can be rejected.

[0160] Step 330: The candidate SN decides whether to accept the current continuous CPAC request based on its own situation. If it accepts, it sends a request response signaling to the MN, such as SN / SgNB Addition Request Acknowledge signaling, and carries the following second continuous CPAC indication information in the feedback signaling.

[0161] The second continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0162] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PScell ​​IDs, that is, PSCell IDs that accept continuous CPAC requests. The candidate SN selects the PSCell IDs based on the suggestions given by the MN. For example, the candidate SN can directly accept the candidate PSCell IDs suggested by the MN.

[0163] The maximum time that the current secondary node can reserve resources for the user equipment is determined by the candidate SN based on its own resources and load. After feedback to the MN, the MN can assist the MN in adjusting the configuration of the number of consecutive CPAC executions. For example, when the candidate SN reports that the available time is long, the MN can appropriately increase the "maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions" configured for the UE, and vice versa.

[0164] Step 340: The MN aggregates and merges the received feedback information, and generates the final continuous CPAC configuration information based on the second continuous CPAC indication information carried in the feedback information. The MN then sends the final continuous CPAC configuration information to the UE through RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration signaling.

[0165] The RRC reconfiguration signaling includes the following consecutive CPAC configuration information:

[0166] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPAC request, instructing the UE to continuously perform CPAC;

[0167] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0168] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs obtained after MN integration;

[0169] The measurement configuration corresponding to each candidate PSCell is used to instruct the UE to perform measurements based on that measurement configuration;

[0170] The execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell are used to instruct the UE to initiate random access to the candidate PSCell.

[0171] Step 350: The UE sends an RRC reconfiguration completion signaling message to the MN, such as the RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration Complete signaling message, indicating that the UE has received the current configuration.

[0172] If you need to modify the continuous CPAC configuration information, you can proceed to steps 360-390; if you do not need to modify the continuous CPAC configuration information, you can proceed directly to step 3100.

[0173] Step 360: Based on network deployment and UE mobility information, the MN decides whether to modify the UE's continuous CPAC configuration. If so, it sends a secondary node modification request signaling, such as SgNB / SNModification Request, to the corresponding candidate SN, such as C-SN1 as shown in the figure.

[0174] The auxiliary node modification request signaling carries at least one of the following information:

[0175] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC modification request;

[0176] The candidate PCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs that MN recommends to be modified;

[0177] The maximum number of times CPAC can be executed consecutively.

[0178] Step 370: The MN receives the secondary node modification request confirmation signaling from the candidate SN, such as SgNB / SNModification Request Acknowledge.

[0179] The secondary node's request for acknowledgment signaling includes at least one of the following:

[0180] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPAC modification feedback indication information;

[0181] The candidate PScell ​​list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the candidate SN accepts modified PSCell IDs;

[0182] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0183] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0184] Step 380: MN sends RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC(Connection)Reconfiguration, to the user equipment.

[0185] The RRC reconfiguration signaling carries at least one of the following information:

[0186] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC;

[0187] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0188] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs of the continuously modified CPAC configurations in this modification;

[0189] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0190] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0191] Step 390: The UE sends an RRC reconfiguration completion signaling message to the MN, such as the RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration Complete signaling message, indicating that the UE has received the currently modified configuration.

[0192] Step 3100: The UE evaluates the CPAC execution conditions. When one or more execution conditions are met, the UE initiates a random access procedure to the target PSCell and reports the target PSCell information to the MN via RRC (Connection) ReconfigurationComplete signaling. After the UE successfully accesses the target PSCell or the access fails, the UE maintains / stores continuous CPAC configuration information and continues to evaluate the CPAC execution conditions. When one or more execution conditions are met, the UE initiates another random access procedure to the target PSCell and reports the target PSCell information to the MN via RRC (Connection) ReconfigurationComplete signaling.

[0193] The UE continuously executes CPAC according to the latest continuous CPAC configuration information. That is, if the continuous CPAC configuration information has not been modified, CPAC is continuously executed according to the initial continuous CPAC configuration information; if the continuous CPAC configuration information has been modified, CPAC is continuously executed according to the modified continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0194] Step 3110: If the number of consecutive CPAC executions reaches the maximum value, the UE releases the current consecutive CPAC configuration information and sends an indication message to the MN that the number of consecutive CPAC executions has reached the maximum value, so as to inform the MN.

[0195] The UE may send this indication information, for example, via RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC(Connection)Reconfiguration.

[0196] Step 3120: When one of the following conditions is met, the MN sends a Conditional Primary / Secondary Cell Change Cancel signaling message, such as Conditional Pscell Change Cancel, to one or more secondary nodes, such as C-SN1 and C-SN2, to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources. These conditions include: the user equipment's current CPAC execution count has reached the maximum value; the current time has reached the maximum value of resources reserved by the secondary nodes for the current user equipment; the primary node decides to release the user equipment's current dual-connectivity architecture.

[0197] In the above embodiments, the master node triggers continuous CPAC, and the master node interacts with the slave node to generate / modify continuous CPAC configuration information, enabling user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information, reducing the signaling overhead and latency of PSCell process changes in MR-DC scenarios, and improving user experience.

[0198] Figure 4The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a cell change method triggered by a secondary node according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0199] like Figure 4 As shown, the cell change method triggered by the secondary node in this embodiment includes the following steps.

[0200] Step 410: The UE reports a measurement report to the source-secondary node S-SN. In some cases, the UE first reports the measurement report to the primary node, and the primary node then forwards the measurement report to the source-secondary node.

[0201] Step 420: Based on the received measurement report, the actual deployment scenario, and the mobility characteristics of the UE, the S-SN decides whether to configure the UE to perform continuous CPC mechanism. If so, the S-SN sends a secondary node change request signaling to the MN, such as SN / SgNBChange Required.

[0202] The secondary node's change-of-demand signaling carries continuous CPC indication information, which includes at least one of the following:

[0203] The continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC request;

[0204] The target secondary node list contains one or more Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) node IDs, that is, one or more target secondary nodes selected by the S-SN based on the measurement report, such as T-SN1 and T-SN2 as exemplarily shown in the figure;

[0205] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs suggested by the S-SN;

[0206] The maximum number of times CPC can be executed consecutively.

[0207] Step 430: MN sends a secondary node add request signaling to the secondary nodes respectively, such as SN / SgNB AdditionRequest signaling. This signaling carries the first continuous CPAC indication information, that is, continuous CPAC related information.

[0208] The first continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0209] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPAC request, such as Frequent CPAC information or selective activation information.

[0210] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs suggested by the S-SN. The S-SN filters the candidates based on the measurement reports reported by the UE, which helps the SN select the final set of candidate PSCells.

[0211] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions, i.e., the number of consecutive CPAC executions recommended by the S-SN, such as 2, 4, 8, 16 or other empirical values, assists the candidate SN in making access control judgments. For example, when the number of consecutive CPAC executions recommended by the S-SN is large, it means that the candidate SN may need to reserve resources for the UE for a longer period of time. If the current candidate SN resources are relatively tight, the consecutive CPAC request can be rejected.

[0212] Step 440: The candidate SN decides whether to accept the current continuous CPAC request based on its own situation. If it accepts, it sends a request response signaling message to the MN, such as SN / SgNB Addition Request Acknowledge signaling, and carries the following second continuous CPAC indication information in the feedback signaling message.

[0213] The second continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following:

[0214] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PScell ​​IDs, that is, PSCell IDs that accept continuous CPAC requests. The candidate SN selects the PSCell IDs based on the suggestions given by the S-SN. For example, the candidate SN can directly accept the candidate PSCell IDs suggested by the S-SN.

[0215] The maximum time that the current secondary node can reserve resources for the user equipment is determined by the candidate SN based on its own resources and load. After feedback to the S-SN, the candidate SN can assist the S-SN in adjusting the configuration of the number of consecutive CPAC executions. For example, when the candidate SN reports that the available time is long, the S-SN can appropriately increase the "maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions" configured for the UE, and vice versa.

[0216] Step 450: MN sends a secondary node change confirmation signaling to the source secondary node. The secondary node change confirmation signaling carries a list of candidate PSCells that accept the request, specifically including one or more PScell ​​IDs.

[0217] Step 460: The MN aggregates and merges the received feedback information, and generates the final continuous CPAC configuration information based on the second continuous CPAC indication information carried in the feedback information. The MN then sends the final continuous CPAC configuration information to the UE through RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration signaling.

[0218] The RRC reconfiguration signaling includes the following consecutive CPAC configuration information:

[0219] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPAC request, instructing the UE to continuously perform CPAC;

[0220] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0221] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs obtained after MN integration;

[0222] The measurement configuration corresponding to each candidate PSCell is used to instruct the UE to perform measurements based on that measurement configuration;

[0223] The execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell are used to instruct the UE to initiate random access to the candidate PSCell.

[0224] Step 470: The UE sends an RRC reconfiguration completion signaling message to the MN, such as the RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration Complete signaling message, indicating that the UE has received the current configuration.

[0225] If you need to modify the continuous CPAC configuration information, you can proceed to steps 480-4130; if you do not need to modify the continuous CPAC configuration information, you can proceed directly to step 4140.

[0226] Step 480: Based on network deployment and UE mobility information, the S-SN decides whether to modify the UE's continuous CPAC configuration. If so, it sends a secondary node modification requirement signaling, such as SN Modification Required, to the MN.

[0227] The auxiliary node modification request signaling includes at least one of the following:

[0228] Continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC modification request;

[0229] The maximum number of consecutive CPC executions;

[0230] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs that the S-SN recommends modifying.

[0231] Step 490: MN sends a secondary node modification request signaling, such as SgNB / SN Modification Request, to the corresponding secondary node, such as T-SN1 as exemplarily shown in the figure.

[0232] The auxiliary node modification request signaling carries at least one of the following information:

[0233] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC modification request;

[0234] The candidate PCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs that the S-SN recommends modifying;

[0235] The maximum number of times CPAC can be executed consecutively.

[0236] Step 4100: The MN receives the secondary node modification request acknowledgment signaling from the candidate SN, such as SgNB / SNmodification Request Acknowledge.

[0237] The secondary node's request for acknowledgment signaling includes at least one of the following:

[0238] Continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPC modification feedback indication information;

[0239] The candidate PScell ​​list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the candidate SN accepts modified PSCell IDs;

[0240] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0241] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0242] Step 4110: MN sends a secondary node modification confirmation signaling SN / SgNB ModificationConfirm to the source secondary node. The secondary node modification confirmation signaling includes a candidate PSCell list.

[0243] Step 4120: MN sends RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC(Connection)Reconfiguration, to the user equipment.

[0244] The RRC reconfiguration signaling carries at least one of the following information:

[0245] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC;

[0246] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0247] The candidate PSCell list contains one or more PSCell IDs, that is, the PSCell IDs of the continuously modified CPAC configurations in this modification;

[0248] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0249] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0250] Step 4130: The UE sends an RRC reconfiguration completion signaling message to the MN, such as the RRC (Connection) Reconfiguration Complete signaling message, indicating that the UE has received the currently modified configuration.

[0251] Step 4140: The UE evaluates the CPAC execution conditions. When one or more execution conditions are met, the UE initiates a random access procedure to the target PSCell and reports the target PSCell information to the MN via RRC (Connection) ReconfigurationComplete signaling. After the UE successfully accesses the target PSCell or the access fails, the UE maintains / stores continuous CPAC configuration information and continues to evaluate the CPAC execution conditions. When one or more execution conditions are met, the UE initiates another random access procedure to the target PSCell and reports the target PSCell information to the MN via RRC (Connection) ReconfigurationComplete signaling.

[0252] The UE continuously executes CPAC according to the latest continuous CPAC configuration information. That is, if the continuous CPAC configuration information has not been modified, CPAC is continuously executed according to the initial continuous CPAC configuration information; if the continuous CPAC configuration information has been modified, CPAC is continuously executed according to the modified continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0253] Step 4150: If the number of consecutive CPAC executions reaches the maximum value, the UE releases the current consecutive CPAC configuration information and sends an indication message to the MN that the number of consecutive CPAC executions has reached the maximum value, so as to inform the MN.

[0254] The UE may send this indication information, for example, via RRC reconfiguration signaling, such as RRC(Connection)Reconfiguration.

[0255] Step 4160: When one of the following conditions is met, the MN sends a Conditional Primary / Secondary Cell Change Cancel signaling, such as Conditional Pscell Change Cancel, to one or more secondary nodes to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources. These conditions include: the user equipment's current CPAC execution count has reached the maximum value; the current time has reached the maximum value of resources reserved by the secondary nodes for the current user equipment; the primary node decides to release the user equipment's current dual-connectivity architecture.

[0256] In the above embodiments, the auxiliary node triggers continuous CPAC, and the primary node interacts with the auxiliary node to generate / modify continuous CPAC configuration information, enabling user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information. This reduces the signaling overhead and latency of PSCell process changes in MR-DC scenarios and improves user experience.

[0257] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a master node is shown for some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0258] like Figure 5 As shown, the master node 500 in this embodiment includes the following modules.

[0259] The transmitting module 510 is configured to send secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively, the secondary node add request signaling carrying first continuous CPAC indication information; and to send radio resource control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling to user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0260] The receiving module 520 is configured to receive a secondary node add request response signaling fed back by the secondary node, wherein the secondary node add request response signaling carries second continuous CPAC indication information.

[0261] The receiving module 520 is further configured to receive a secondary node change request signaling sent by the source secondary node before sending secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively. The secondary node change request signaling carries continuous condition primary and secondary cell change CPC indication information, which includes at least one of the following:

[0262] The continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC request;

[0263] The target secondary node list contains one or more next-generation radio access network node IDs;

[0264] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0265] The maximum number of times CPC can be executed consecutively.

[0266] The sending module 510 is also configured to send a secondary node change confirmation signaling to the source secondary node, the secondary node change confirmation signaling carrying a list of candidate PSCells accepting the request, specifically including one or more PScell ​​IDs.

[0267] The sending module 510 is further configured to send a secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes, the secondary node modification request signaling carrying at least one of the following information:

[0268] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC modification request;

[0269] A list of candidate PCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0270] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0271] The receiving module 520 is further configured to receive a secondary node modification request confirmation signaling fed back by the secondary node, wherein the secondary node modification request confirmation signaling includes at least one of the following information:

[0272] Continuous CPAC indication information indicates that the current situation is a continuous CPAC modification feedback indication information;

[0273] A list of candidate PScells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0274] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0275] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0276] The receiving module 520 is further configured to receive a secondary node modification request signaling sent by a source secondary node before sending a secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes, the secondary node modification request signaling containing at least one of the following information:

[0277] Continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC modification request;

[0278] The maximum number of consecutive CPC executions;

[0279] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0280] After receiving the RRC reconfiguration completion message from the user equipment, a secondary node modification confirmation signaling is sent to the source secondary node. The secondary node modification confirmation signaling contains a list of candidate PSCells.

[0281] The sending module 510 is also configured to send RRC reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying at least one of the following information:

[0282] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC;

[0283] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0284] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0285] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0286] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

[0287] The sending module 510 is also configured to send a conditional primary / secondary cell change cancellation signaling to one or more secondary nodes when one of the following conditions is met, to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release candidate PScell ​​related configurations or resources:

[0288] The user equipment has reached its maximum number of CPAC executions.

[0289] The current time is the maximum value of the resources reserved for the current user equipment at the secondary node;

[0290] The master node decides to release the current dual-connection architecture of the user device.

[0291] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a master node is shown for some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0292] like Figure 6 As shown, the master node 600 of this embodiment includes a memory 610 and a processor 620 coupled to the memory 610. The processor 620 is configured to execute the sequential CPAC method in any of the foregoing embodiments based on instructions stored in the memory 610.

[0293] The master node 600 may also include an input / output interface 630, a network interface 640, a storage interface 650, etc. These interfaces 630, 640, 650, as well as the memory 610 and the processor 620, can be connected, for example, via a bus 660.

[0294] The memory 610 may include, for example, system memory, fixed non-volatile storage media, etc. The system memory may store, for example, the operating system, application programs, boot loader, and other programs.

[0295] The processor 620 can be implemented using a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates, or transistors, or other discrete hardware components.

[0296] The input / output interface 630 provides a connection interface for input / output devices such as monitors, mice, keyboards, and touchscreens. The network interface 640 provides a connection interface for various networked devices. The storage interface 650 provides a connection interface for external storage devices such as SD cards and USB flash drives. The bus 660 can use any bus architecture from a variety of bus structures. For example, bus architectures include, but are not limited to, Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus.

[0297] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a user equipment according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.

[0298] like Figure 7 As shown, the user equipment 700 in this embodiment includes the following modules.

[0299] The receiving module 710 is configured to receive Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node. The RRC reconfiguration signaling carries continuous CPAC configuration information, which includes one or more of the following:

[0300] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request;

[0301] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0302] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0303] Measurement configuration for each candidate PSCell;

[0304] Execution conditions corresponding to each candidate PSCell;

[0305] The execution module 720 is configured to continuously execute CPAC according to the continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0306] The receiving module 710 is also configured to receive RRC reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying at least one of the following information:

[0307] Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC;

[0308] The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions;

[0309] A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more PSCell IDs;

[0310] Measurement configuration for each PSCell;

[0311] The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell;

[0312] The execution module 720 is also configured to continuously execute CPAC based on the modified continuous CPAC configuration information.

[0313] The sending module 730 is configured to release the current continuous CPAC configuration information and send an indication message to the master node that the number of consecutive CPAC executions has reached the maximum value when the number of consecutive CPAC executions reaches the maximum value.

[0314] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a master node is shown for some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0315] like Figure 8 As shown, the user equipment 800 of this embodiment includes a memory 810 and a processor 820 coupled to the memory 810. The processor 820 is configured to execute the sequential CPAC method in any of the foregoing embodiments based on instructions stored in the memory 810.

[0316] User equipment 800 may also include input / output interfaces 830, network interfaces 840, storage interfaces 850, etc. These interfaces 830, 840, 850, as well as the memory 810 and processor 820, can be connected, for example, via a bus 860.

[0317] The memory 810 may include, for example, system memory, fixed non-volatile storage media, etc. The system memory may store, for example, the operating system, application programs, boot loader, and other programs.

[0318] The processor 820 can be implemented using a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates, or transistors, or other discrete hardware components.

[0319] The input / output interface 830 provides a connection interface for input / output devices such as monitors, mice, keyboards, and touchscreens. The network interface 840 provides a connection interface for various networked devices. The storage interface 850 provides a connection interface for external storage devices such as SD cards and USB flash drives. The bus 860 can use any bus architecture from a variety of bus structures. For example, bus architectures include, but are not limited to, Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus.

[0320] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a communication system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0321] like Figure 9 As shown, the communication system 900 of this embodiment includes: master nodes 500 and 600 and user equipment 700 and 800. The master nodes 500 and 600 are communicatively connected to the user equipment 700 and 800. One master node can serve multiple user equipments.

[0322] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this disclosure can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this disclosure can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this disclosure can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer program code.

[0323] This disclosure is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create a machine for implementing the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0324] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0325] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0326] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A cell change method, executed by the master node, including: Send a secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively. The secondary node add request signaling carries the first continuous condition primary and secondary cell add or change CPAC indication information, which is used to indicate that the current one is a continuous CPAC request. The system receives a secondary node add request response signaling from the secondary node. The secondary node add request response signaling carries second continuous CPAC indication information, which includes one or more candidate PSCell IDs for continuous CPAC. A Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling message is sent to the user equipment. The RRC reconfiguration signaling message carries continuous CPAC configuration information, which is used to instruct the user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information. The continuous CPAC configuration information includes: one or more candidate PSCell IDs for continuous CPAC, and the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to each candidate PSCell.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising, before sending secondary node add request signaling to one or more secondary nodes respectively: The system receives a secondary node change request signaling sent by a source secondary node. This signaling carries continuous condition primary / secondary cell change CPC indication information, which includes at least one of the following: The continuous CPC indication information indicates that the current request is a continuous CPC request; The target secondary node list contains one or more next-generation radio access network node IDs; The candidate PSCell list contains one or more candidate PSCell IDs; The maximum number of times CPC can be executed consecutively.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: Send a secondary node change confirmation signaling to the source secondary node. The secondary node change confirmation signaling carries a list of candidate PSCells that accept the request, specifically including one or more candidate PSCell IDs.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the first continuous CPAC indication information includes one or more of the following: Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request; The candidate PSCell list contains one or more candidate PSCell IDs; The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; Alternatively, the second continuous CPAC indication information may also include: the maximum time that the current secondary node reserves resources for the user equipment; Alternatively, the continuous CPAC configuration information may also include one or more of the following: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request; the maximum number of times CPAC can be executed continuously; and the measurement configuration corresponding to each candidate PSCell.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising: Send a secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes, the secondary node modification request signaling carrying at least one of the following information: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current time is a continuous CPAC modification request; A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more candidate PSCell IDs; the maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions. The auxiliary node modification request confirmation signaling is received from the auxiliary node. The auxiliary node modification request confirmation signaling includes at least one of the following: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current situation is a continuous CPAC modification feedback. A list of candidate PSCells, containing one or more candidate PSCell IDs; the measurement configuration for each PSCell; and the execution conditions for each PSCell.

6. The method according to claim 5, further comprising, before sending the secondary node modification request signaling to the one or more secondary nodes: Receive a secondary node modification request signaling sent by the source secondary node, wherein the secondary node modification request signaling includes at least one of the following: continuous CPC indication information, indicating that the current time is a continuous CPC modification request; the maximum number of consecutive CPC executions; The candidate PSCell list contains one or more candidate PSCell IDs; After receiving the RRC reconfiguration completion message from the user equipment, a secondary node modification confirmation signaling is sent to the source secondary node. The secondary node modification confirmation signaling contains a list of candidate PSCells.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: Sending RRC reconfiguration signaling to the user equipment, the RRC reconfiguration signaling carrying at least one of the following information: Continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration modification is being performed by a continuous CPAC; The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; The candidate PSCell list contains one or more candidate PSCell IDs; Measurement configuration for each PSCell; The execution conditions corresponding to each PSCell.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising: When one of the following conditions is met, a conditional primary / secondary cell change cancellation signaling is sent to one or more secondary nodes to instruct the secondary nodes to cancel or release the candidate PSCell-related configuration or resources: The user equipment has reached its maximum number of CPAC executions. The current time is the maximum value of the resources reserved for the current user equipment at the secondary node; The master node decides to release the current dual-connection architecture of the user device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, The continuous CPAC configuration information is used to instruct the user equipment to continuously execute CPAC based on the continuous CPAC configuration information, and it is generated by integrating various second continuous CPAC instruction information.

10. A cell modification method, executed by a user equipment, comprising: The system receives Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node. The RRC reconfiguration signaling carries continuous condition primary and secondary cell CPAC configuration information for adding or changing configurations. The continuous CPAC configuration information includes: one or more candidate PSCell IDs for continuous CPAC, and the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to each candidate PSCell. The continuous execution of CPAC according to the continuous CPAC configuration information includes: the user equipment evaluating the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to each candidate PSCell; when the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to the first PSCell among the candidate PSCells are met, the user equipment initiates a random access procedure to the first PSCell and reports the first PSCell information to the master node via RRC signaling; when the user equipment successfully accesses the first PSCell or the access fails, the user equipment continues to evaluate the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to each candidate PSCell; when the execution conditions for continuous CPAC corresponding to the second PSCell among the candidate PSCells are met, the user equipment initiates a random access procedure to the second PSCell again and reports the second PSCell information to the master node via RRC signaling.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: Receive RRC reconfiguration signaling sent by the master node, wherein the RRC reconfiguration signaling carries at least one of the following information: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current configuration is a continuous CPAC modification; the maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; A candidate PSCell list, containing one or more PSCell IDs; the measurement configuration for each PSCell; and the execution conditions for each PSCell. CPAC is executed continuously based on the modified continuous CPAC configuration information.

12. The method according to any one of claims 10-11, wherein the continuous CPAC configuration information further includes one or more of the following: continuous CPAC indication information, indicating that the current request is a continuous CPAC request; The maximum number of consecutive CPAC executions; Measurement configuration for each candidate PSCell; Alternatively, the method may further include: if the number of consecutive CPAC executions reaches the maximum value, releasing the current consecutive CPAC configuration information and sending an indication message to the master node that the number of consecutive CPAC executions has reached the maximum value.

13. A master node, comprising: Memory; as well as A processor coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-9 based on instructions stored in the memory.

14. A master node comprising a module that performs the method of any one of claims 1-9.

15. A user equipment, comprising: Memory; as well as A processor coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to perform the method of any one of claims 10-12 based on instructions stored in the memory.

16. A user equipment comprising a module performing the method of any one of claims 10-12.

17. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-12.

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