Multi-connection aware cell reselection

Abstract

Various described aspects and embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for supporting multi-connection aware cell reselection in a radio access network. In accordance with various but not necessarily all example embodiments, a method is provided that includes obtaining an indication that multi-connection aware cell reselection is to be applied by an apparatus; and obtaining an indication of one or more multi-connection conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell providing an indication of multi-connection support by the candidate cell to the device; measuring signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more further cells; determining whether one or more multi-connection conditions associated with the candidate cell for cell reselection are satisfied based on the measured signal from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signal from the one or more further cells; and performing cell reselection based on whether the one or more multi-connection conditions are satisfied. An apparatus and a computer program product configured to perform the method are also provided. The arrangement provides mechanisms according to which multi-connection aware cell reselection can be implemented within the network. Specifically, according to some arrangements, a cell reselection procedure may be provided, according to which a user equipment (UE) may be directed or encouraged to choose to camp on a cell on which the UE can establish dual connectivity or carrier aggregation. Such mechanisms may operate to support high throughput and / or robust communications for UEs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example embodiments relate to apparatus and methods for supporting multi-connection-aware cell reselection in radio access networks. Background Technology

[0002] In radio access networks, radio coverage is typically provided to user equipment (UE) on a geographical area basis. Network access nodes (e.g., base stations) are located in each geographical area to support one or more cells of radio coverage. UEs located in areas served or covered by network access nodes communicate with the radio access network via one or more radio links to the network access nodes.

[0003] User equipment (UE) can move between cells within the radio coverage area of ​​a radio access network. As UE moves between cells, maintaining efficient communication between the network and UE to ensure service continuity is beneficial. In other words, network nodes need to be configured to support UE mobility within the network.

[0004] Apparatus and methods are needed to support mobility within radio access networks. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The scope of protection sought by the various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is set forth in the independent claims. Exemplary embodiments and features (if any) described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims should be interpreted as examples helpful in understanding the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0006] According to various, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: obtain an indication to be applied by the apparatus to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection; and obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells providing an indication of multi-connectivity support for the apparatus by the candidate cells; measure signals received from the candidate cells for cell reselection and one or more other cells; determine, based on the measured signals from the candidate cells for cell reselection and the measured signals from the one or more other cells, whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells for cell reselection are satisfied; and perform cell reselection based on whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0007] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing dual connectivity communication between the device and the candidate cell.

[0008] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing carrier aggregation communication between the device and candidate cells.

[0009] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the cell list.

[0010] The device can be caused to: obtain a list of cells or an indication of a list of cells.

[0011] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: a list of cells associated with candidate cells and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the list of cells.

[0012] Radio condition thresholds may include indications of which cells in the cell list can communicate with the device.

[0013] The first cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for dual connectivity, and the second cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for carrier aggregation.

[0014] Indications to be applied by the device for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection may include: an indication of the frequency priority to be applied by the device in relation to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection.

[0015] Frequency priority can determine one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection.

[0016] One or more connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection may include: band support combination requirements, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more additional cells operating in one or more required bands.

[0017] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize carrier aggregation communication by the device.

[0018] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize dual-connection communication by the device.

[0019] The device can also be caused to provide an indication of the device's multi-connectivity capability.

[0020] If, based on measured signals from candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from one or more other cells, it is determined that one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection are satisfied, the apparatus may perform cell reselection for candidate cells that satisfy the multiple connectivity conditions.

[0021] If, based on measured signals from candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from one or more other cells, it is determined that one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells used for cell reselection are not met, the device may perform cell reselection based on selecting a candidate cell determined to have the best radio conditions received at the device.

[0022] The device can be caused to: assess whether the service or flow associated with the device requires multi-connection communication capabilities.

[0023] Based on an assessment of whether the services or flows associated with the device require multi-connection communication capabilities, the device can apply multi-connection-aware cell reselection.

[0024] Based on an assessment of whether the service or flow associated with the device requires multi-connection communication capabilities, the device may request multi-connection-aware cell reselection.

[0025] The apparatus may include: user equipment, which includes circuitry configured to receive and transmit radio frequency signals.

[0026] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components configured to obtain an indication of multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by the apparatus; and components configured to obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells provide an indication of multi-connectivity support of the apparatus by the candidate cells; components configured to measure signals received from the candidate cells for cell reselection and one or more other cells; components configured to determine, based on the measured signals from the candidate cells for cell reselection and the measured signals from one or more other cells, whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells for cell reselection are satisfied; and components configured to perform cell reselection based on whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0027] This component can perform the optional features described in relation to the aforementioned apparatus.

[0028] In an embodiment, the instruction to be applied by the device for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is received from a network access node, such as a RAN node.

[0029] In an embodiment, an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection is received from a network access node, such as a RAN node.

[0030] According to various, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: circuitry configured to obtain an indication of multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by the apparatus; and circuitry configured to obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support of the apparatus by the candidate cell; circuitry configured to measure signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more other cells; circuitry configured to determine, based on the measured signals from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signals from one or more other cells, whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell for cell reselection are satisfied; and circuitry configured to perform cell reselection based on whether the one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0031] The circuit can be configured to perform the aforementioned optional device-related features.

[0032] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided, comprising: obtaining an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied; obtaining an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; measuring signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more other cells; determining, based on the measured signals from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signals from the one or more other cells, whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell or cell reselection are satisfied; and performing cell reselection based on whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0033] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing dual connectivity communication between the device and the candidate cell.

[0034] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing carrier aggregation communication between the device and candidate cells.

[0035] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the cell list.

[0036] Methods may include obtaining a list of cells or an indication of a list of cells.

[0037] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: a list of cells associated with candidate cells, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the list of cells.

[0038] Radio condition thresholds may include an indication that cells in the cell list are able to communicate with the device.

[0039] The first cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for dual connectivity, and the second cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for carrier aggregation.

[0040] Indications to be applied by the device for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection may include: an indication of the frequency priority to be applied by the device in relation to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection.

[0041] Frequency priority can determine one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection.

[0042] One or more connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection may include: band support combination requirements, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more additional cells operating in one or more required bands.

[0043] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize carrier aggregation communication by the device.

[0044] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize dual-connection communication by the device.

[0045] The method may include: providing an indication of the device's multi-connectivity capability.

[0046] If, based on measured signals from candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from one or more other cells, it is determined that one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection are satisfied, the method may include performing cell reselection on candidate cells that satisfy the multi-connectivity conditions.

[0047] If, based on measured signals from candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from one or more other cells, it is determined that one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection are not met, the method may include performing cell reselection based on selecting a candidate cell determined to have the best radio conditions received at the device.

[0048] The method may include: assessing whether a service or stream associated with the device requires multi-connection communication capabilities.

[0049] Based on an assessment of whether a service or flow requires multi-connection communication capabilities, methods may include applying multi-connection-aware cell reselection.

[0050] Based on an assessment of whether a service or flow requires multi-connection communication capabilities, methods may include requesting multi-connection-aware cell reselection.

[0051] The method can be executed by a user equipment, which includes circuitry configured to receive and transmit radio frequency signals.

[0052] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being configured to perform at least the following: obtaining an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied; obtaining an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell providing an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; measuring signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more other cells; determining, based on the measured signals from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signals from one or more other cells, whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell or cell reselection are satisfied; and performing cell reselection based on whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0053] The instructions can be used to execute the optional features related to the methods mentioned above.

[0054] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a computer program product is provided that, when executed on a computer, is operable to perform the following steps: obtaining an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied; obtaining an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; measuring signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more other cells; determining, based on the measured signals from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signals from one or more other cells, whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell or cell reselection are satisfied; and performing cell reselection based on whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0055] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: transmit an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by a user equipment; and transmit an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cells.

[0056] Transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by the user equipment, and an indication that one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include transmitting dedicated signaling to the user equipment.

[0057] Transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by the user equipment, and an indication that one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include transmitting broadcast signaling to the user equipment.

[0058] The device can be caused to: determine the appropriate user equipment for the selection of multi-connectivity sensing cells.

[0059] The device can be caused to: determine the multi-connectivity capability of user equipment.

[0060] The device can be caused to: assess whether a service or flow associated with a user equipment requires multi-connection communication capabilities.

[0061] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing dual connectivity communication between user equipment and candidate cells.

[0062] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing carrier aggregation communication between user equipment and candidate cells.

[0063] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the cell list.

[0064] The device can be caused to provide a list of cells or an indication of a list of cells.

[0065] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: a list of cells associated with candidate cells, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the list of cells.

[0066] Radio condition thresholds may include an indication that a cell in the cell list is capable of communicating with a user equipment.

[0067] The first cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for dual connectivity, and the second cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for carrier aggregation.

[0068] Instructions to be applied by the user equipment for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection may include: an indication of frequency priority to be applied by the user equipment in relation to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection.

[0069] Frequency priority can determine one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection.

[0070] One or more connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection may include: band support combination requirements, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more additional cells operating in one or more required bands.

[0071] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize carrier aggregation communication by user equipment.

[0072] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize dual-connection communication by the user equipment.

[0073] The device can also be caused to receive instructions on the multiple connectivity capabilities of user equipment.

[0074] The apparatus may include a radio access node, which includes circuitry configured to receive and transmit radio frequency signals.

[0075] According to various, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components configured to transmit an indication of multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by a user equipment; and components configured to transmit an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

[0076] The component can perform the optional features related to the device mentioned above.

[0077] According to various, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus is provided, comprising: circuitry configured to transmit an indication of multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by a user equipment; and circuitry configured to transmit an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

[0078] The circuit can be configured to perform the aforementioned optional device-related features.

[0079] According to various, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a method is provided, comprising: transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by a user equipment; and transmitting an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cells.

[0080] Transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by the user equipment, and an indication that one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include transmitting dedicated signaling to the user equipment.

[0081] Transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by the user equipment, and an indication that one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include transmitting broadcast signaling to the user equipment.

[0082] The method may include: determining which multi-connectivity sensing cell is suitable for user equipment.

[0083] The method may include: determining the multi-connectivity capability of a user device.

[0084] Methods may include: assessing whether a service or stream associated with a user device requires multi-connection communication capabilities.

[0085] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing dual connectivity communication between user equipment and candidate cells.

[0086] Multiple connectivity conditions may include conditions associated with establishing carrier aggregation communication between user equipment and candidate cells.

[0087] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the cell list.

[0088] Methods may include providing a list of cells or an indication of a list of cells.

[0089] One or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection may include: a list of cells associated with candidate cells, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the list of cells.

[0090] Radio condition thresholds may include an indication that a cell in the cell list is capable of communicating with a user equipment.

[0091] The first cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for dual connectivity, and the second cell list and radio condition thresholds can be associated with candidate cells for carrier aggregation.

[0092] Instructions to be applied by the user equipment for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection may include: an indication of frequency priority to be applied by the user equipment in relation to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection.

[0093] Frequency priority can determine one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells used for cell reselection.

[0094] One or more connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection may include: band support combination requirements, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more additional cells operating in one or more required bands.

[0095] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize carrier aggregation communication by user equipment.

[0096] Frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions can be set to prioritize dual-connection communication by the user equipment.

[0097] The method may include: receiving an indication of the user equipment's multi-connectivity capability.

[0098] The method can be performed by a radio access node, which includes circuitry configured to receive and transmit radio frequency signals, or by a radio control node configured to communicate with the radio access node or user equipment.

[0099] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being configured to at least perform the following: transmitting an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by a user equipment; transmitting an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells providing an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cells.

[0100] The instructions can be used to execute the optional features related to the methods mentioned above.

[0101] According to various, but not necessarily all, exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a computer program product is provided that, when executed on a computer, is operable to transmit an indication of multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by a user equipment; and to transmit an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cells provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cells.

[0102] Further specific and preferred aspects are given in the appended independent and dependent claims. Features of the dependent claims may be appropriately combined with features of the independent claims, and may be combined in ways not expressly listed in the claims.

[0103] When a device feature is described as operable to provide a function, it should be understood that this includes device features that provide that function, or device features adapted or configured to provide that function. Attached Figure Description

[0104] Some exemplary embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 The diagram schematically illustrates some of the main components of a conventional wireless access network; Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the signaling method according to the specific implementation of the layout; Figure 3 The diagram schematically illustrates some components of a wireless communication network including nodes according to some arrangement; and Figure 4 The steps of a method performed at a node are illustrated schematically according to some arrangement. Detailed Implementation

[0105] Before discussing the example embodiments in more detail, an overview will first be provided.

[0106] Figure 1 Some key components of a conventional radio access network are schematically illustrated. In radio access network 1000, radio coverage is typically provided to user equipment (UE) 1100 by geographical area. Network access nodes 1200 (e.g., base stations) are located in each geographical area to support one or more cells of radio coverage. User equipment 1100 located in an area served or covered by network access nodes 1200 communicates with the radio access network via one or more radio links to network access nodes 1200.

[0107] User equipment 1100 can move between cells within the radio coverage area of ​​radio access network 1000. As user equipment moves between cells, it is desirable to maintain the ability to communicate efficiently between the network and the user equipment to provide service continuity. In other words, it is necessary to configure network nodes to support the movement of user equipment within the network.

[0108] Typically, network nodes within a wireless access network are configured to support a range of mobility events.

[0109] For example, for mobility between adjacent cells, idle-mode UEs rely on a cell reselection process [as described in 3GPP standard TS 38.304]. The purpose of the cell reselection process is to ensure that the idle-mode UE camps on the most suitable cell. The network can be configured to influence the cell reselection process, for example, by adjusting the broadcast information of individual cells in different System Information Blocks (SIBs) [3GPP TS 38.331]. The SIB may contain one or more configuration parameters that the UE can be configured to use to evaluate the radio quality experienced in relation to: its currently camped cell; and one or more adjacent cells (as candidates, which the UE can switch to if the radio conditions of the adjacent cells are more favorable). The cell reselection process allows the UE to switch its camped cell when moving across different cell boundaries [3GPP TS 38.304]. Typically, the cell reselection process is slice-agnostic. That is, the UE does not consider slice support of adjacent cells as part of the evaluation of adjacent cells.

[0110] Release 16 of the 3GPP standard introduced the Early Measurement Reporting feature. This feature configures the UE to provide one or more measurements that enable the network to prepare and establish the primary cell (PScell ​​for secondary nodes in dual connectivity) or the secondary cell (Scell) in dual connectivity (DC) or carrier aggregation (CA) as soon as possible after the UE establishes an active connection within the network. Early Measurement Reporting is highly relevant to user experience because it can achieve high throughput even after the user launches an application. Early Measurement Reporting allows the UE to perform measurement reporting as soon as it enters connected mode.

[0111] Network coverage includes overlapping areas of radio frequencies that provide radio coverage to UEs. 5G allows for the use of these overlapping radio coverage areas in several ways. Some of these ways improve throughput for UEs, for example, by employing carrier aggregation or dual connectivity.

[0112] The cell reselection algorithm described above generally takes into account the radio conditions of neighboring cells, but it is blind to, for example, the possibility of carrier aggregation or dual connectivity associated with the UE and these neighboring cells.

[0113] It should be understood that not all cells can establish carrier aggregation once a UE connects to that cell. For example, carrier aggregation is closely related to the MAC entity associated with the serving cell, and in some cases it is restricted to co-located sites. Similarly, dual connectivity requires an Xn interface between the primary and secondary nodes. Such an interface may not be available between some neighboring cells. Therefore, some primary cells cannot establish dual connectivity with other cells.

[0114] The deployment recognizes that implementing a cell reselection process where the UE camps on a cell without considering possible dual connectivity and carrier aggregation options may result in the network being unable to establish a DC or CA for the UE, because the UE may be configured to camp on a cell that may not support the higher throughput configuration provided by the DC or CA.

[0115] Therefore, the arrangement provides mechanisms that allow for consideration of options for establishing dual connectivity and / or carrier aggregation when the UE moves through the network.

[0116] The deployment provides mechanisms that enable multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection within the network. Specifically, some deployments may provide a cell reselection process under which a UE can be guided or encouraged to camp on a cell where it can establish dual connectivity or carrier aggregation. Such mechanisms can operate to support high throughput and / or robust communication for the UE.

[0117] The arrangement can be implemented via a new instruction from the RAN node to the UE. This instruction can be transmitted to the UE via dedicated signaling (e.g., when the UE is in connected mode) or via broadcast signaling.

[0118] This new instruction provides a mechanism by which a UE can evaluate which cell to select, based at least in part on the dual connectivity and / or carrier aggregation options available at the candidate cell. It should be understood that a potential cell to be selected at the end of the cell reselection process can be considered a “candidate cell.”

[0119] Example 1 Depending on the possible arrangement, the UE can be provided with a list of cells associated with candidate cells and conditions related to cell radio conditions.

[0120] In the example embodiment, the cell list and conditions related to cell radio conditions are received by the UE from the RAN node.

[0121] For example: Community 1: Community list: (Community 10, Community 11, Community 12) i.: If the cell has a reference signal received power (RSRP) greater than the selected threshold x, dual connectivity or carrier aggregation can be established.

[0122] In some configurations, dual connectivity and carrier aggregation options can be indicated to the UE via a separate cell list.

[0123] Example 2 According to one possible arrangement, at least one list can be provided to the UE indicating frequency priorities for dual connectivity and carrier aggregation. The frequency priorities can be provided to the UE along with one or more frequency-related conditions used to prioritize the frequency for dual connectivity and / or carrier aggregation.

[0124] For example, regarding dual connectivity, cell reselection priority can be set based on frequency as follows: Frequency 1 - High Priority To establish dual connectivity, only one such cell is required. If the UE measures at least one cell with a reference signal received power (RSRP) higher than the threshold X in frequency 2 (the frequency of the primary cell used as the secondary cell group), the frequency of the primary cell for dual connectivity is set to high.

[0125] For carrier aggregation, more than one such cell can be indicated. If the UE measures at least Z cells with RSRP higher than the threshold Y in frequency 3 (the frequency of the secondary cell of carrier aggregation), the frequency of the primary cell of carrier aggregation is set to high.

[0126] Depending on the configuration, the UE can be configured to use this type of measurement(s) and(s) and conditions(s) as part of an enhanced cell reselection mechanism.

[0127] Following an arrangement consistent with Example 1, the UE can be configured to perform multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection based on frequency priority (supplemented by a cell list). That is, for example, the UE can begin by considering a first-priority frequency and evaluating the received signal within that frequency. If, for the first-priority frequency, the UE determines that any cell in the allowed cell list conditionally indicates its ability to support dual-connectivity or carrier aggregation communication technologies—for example, in conjunction with the example given above, if the UE receives a signal from cell 1 and has already received the cell list (cell 10, cell 11, cell 12)—the UE can be configured to initiate one or more measurements to allow evaluation of whether the condition (if a cell in the cell list has a reference signal received power (RSRP) greater than a selected threshold x, then dual-connectivity or carrier aggregation can be established once the UE moves to connected mode) is met. This evaluation can be performed by the UE, for example, based on existing measurements or based on new measurement requirements. If the UE evaluates that the condition is met, the UE can be configured to consider that the cell (in this case, cell 1 plus cells in the cell list) to support dual-connectivity or carrier aggregation and begin camping on that cell.

[0128] If the UE assesses that the condition is not met, the UE can be configured to update frequency priority based on the determined multi-connectivity support. In other words, if the best cell ranked according to RSRP at a given frequency does not support multi-connectivity based on the selected condition, that frequency can be de-prioritized. If, after repeatedly performing the multi-connectivity-aware cell selection process across available frequencies, no cell meets the relevant condition, the UE can be configured to continue performing regular cell reselection.

[0129] Following an arrangement consistent with Example 2, the UE can be configured to perform multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection for conditional frequency priorities. Compared to Example 1, the UE can be configured to perform measurements evaluating the condition while performing standard cell reselection measurements; that is, while measuring frequency 1, the UE can be configured to also measure frequencies 2 and / or 3, and detect any cells with an RSRP higher than a threshold of X dB. If the UE determines that it cannot find any cells in frequency 2 or frequency 3, or that a particular cell has an RSRP higher than X dB, it can be configured to de-prioritize the given priority of frequency 1 and continue performing regular cell reselection.

[0130] After describing the implementation method based on the general arrangement, a specific implementation method is described in detail.

[0131] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram illustrating the signaling method according to the specific implementation of the arrangement.

[0132] like Figure 2 As shown, UE 100 is connected to a cell supported by RAN node 1 200.

[0133] In step S1, UE 100 is configured to indicate its dual connectivity and carrier aggregation capabilities to the network by communicating with RAN node 1 200. The carrier aggregation capability indication may include an indication of UE 100's frequency band combining capabilities.

[0134] According to the implementation of the mechanism conforming to the arrangement, the UE is configured to indicate that it supports dual connectivity / carrier aggregation (DCCA) aware cell reselection capability, which is also referred to as multi-connectivity aware cell reselection in this document.

[0135] In step S2, Figure 2 In the implementation shown, the network can be configured to determine, for example, based on historical data or other known characteristics associated with the UE, that the services or flows used by the UE require high throughput or high quality of service (QoS), and thus determine that the UE can beneficially use DCCA-aware cell reselection.

[0136] In step S3, the network signals to the UE that a DCCA-based cell reselection is to be performed by the UE. This signaling may occur, for example, via dedicated signaling when the UE is moving from connected mode to RRC idle mode or RRC inactive mode. Alternatively, as shown in step S4, the network may broadcast DCCA-based cell reselection information via system information, which the UE may receive while operating in RRC idle mode or RRC inactive mode.

[0137] The indications for a UE to implement DCCA-aware cell reselection include indications of a specific set of conditions to be applied by the UE. The general form of such conditions has been discussed above. Figure 2 In the implementation shown, the measurement and priority conditions for multi-connectivity sensing cell reselection are set as follows: Cell reselection conditions based on DCCA: Frequency 1: Priority 1 If frequency 2 has z cells (where z is greater than or equal to 1) at the UE whose received or measured signal quality (RSRP) is greater than a threshold x. Frequency 3: Priority 2 If frequency 4 has a cell where the signal quality (RSRP) received or measured at the UE is greater than the threshold x.

[0138] In step S5: The UE receives the DCCA-based cell reselection conditions and begins measurement according to the DCCA-based cell reselection frequency priority (this is possible because the UE has the capability and this feature is enabled). Figure 2 In the example shown, it should be understood that CA-based priority is higher than DC-based priority. This decision is made through the selection of appropriate conditions and is determined by the network. Carrier aggregation is a feature with low energy consumption at the UE, and its implementation typically makes the cell reselection condition based on DCCA operable as the preferred operation to select CA technology as the initial choice. The priority of CA over DC can be implicitly notified to the UE via signaling (e.g., Figure 2 (as in the example conditions), or it can be explicitly signaled. In this example, it is implicitly indicated by setting the frequency priority of the CA-supporting band to be higher than the frequency priority of the DC-supporting band.

[0139] In step S6, the UE is configured to measure the received signal in frequency band 1, as this band is indicated to have the highest priority for DCCA-based cell reselection. If the UE 100 finds a suitable cell, the UE continues by evaluating the conditions indicated in the DCCA-based cell reselection information. Figure 2In the example shown, in step S6, the UE determines, for example, based on the received Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), that cell 10 supported by RAN nodes 2 and 300 is operating in frequency 1 and meets the required RSRP threshold. Therefore, in Figure 2 In the example implementation shown: In steps S7 and S8: UE 100 determines, for example, that cells 20 and 21 supported by RAN nodes 2 and 300 are operating in frequency 2 based on the received synchronization signal block (SSB).

[0140] In step S9: UE 100 is shown evaluating DCCA-aware cell reselection conditions. The UE has already found cell 10 on frequency 1 and continues with measurement on frequency 2. The UE determines that only one cell operating on frequency 2 has an RSRP higher than the threshold x; therefore, the condition associated with frequency 1 (which has the highest priority in DCCA cell reselection conditions) is not met. As a result, the UE operates to de-prioritize frequency 1.

[0141] If the UE cannot find a cell operating in frequency 1, or if the conditions associated with frequency 1 are not met, the UE 100 is configured to continue by measuring the next priority frequency in the DCCA-aware cell reselection conditions.

[0142] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the UE measures frequency 2 and determines that only one cell matches the required criterion (RSRP higher than x dB). For this reason, the condition is not met (this condition could be used to meet the UE's throughput requirements, but a single cell with carrier aggregation might only add 20 MHz, which may not be sufficient for the UE). The UE does not camp on cell 10 but continues to perform DCCA-aware cell reselection measurements.

[0143] In steps S10 and S11: UE 100 determines, for example, based on the received synchronization signal block (SSB), that cell 30 supported by RAN node 3400 is operating in frequency 3, and cell 40 supported by RAN node 4500 is operating in frequency 4.

[0144] In step S12: UE 100 is configured to evaluate frequency band 3 according to the DCCA-aware cell reselection conditions indicated above, and find a suitable cell 30. UE measures the signal received in frequency 4 and finds that cell 40 is higher than RSRPx. Therefore, UE determines that the DCCA-aware cell reselection conditions are met, and UE is configured to select cell 30 as the result of cell reselection. UE 100 then takes steps to camp on cell 30.

[0145] In step S13: If or when UE 100 is paged, or if UE wishes to initiate service, then UE is configured to restore or establish an RRC connection with cell 30.

[0146] In step S14: As a result of using DCCA to sense cell reselection, after obtaining measurements from the UE, the network can establish dual connectivity for the UE (or, if the frequency 1 condition is met, establish carrier aggregation), and thus support high-throughput services.

[0147] Figure 3 The schematic diagram illustrates some components of a wireless communication network including nodes according to some arrangement; and Figure 4 The steps of a method performed at a network node are illustrated schematically according to some arrangement.

[0148] Figure 3 The diagram schematically illustrates some components of a network including nodes according to some arrangement. Network 1000 includes multiple network nodes 1200 communicating with user equipment 1100.

[0149] User equipment 1100 takes the form of an apparatus comprising: circuitry 1110 configured to obtain an indication to be applied by the apparatus to multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection; circuitry 1120 configured to obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the apparatus by the candidate cell; circuitry 1130 configured to measure signals received from the candidate cell for cell reselection and one or more other cells; circuitry 1140 configured to determine, based on the measured signals from the candidate cell for cell reselection and the measured signals from one or more other cells, whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell for cell reselection are satisfied; and circuitry 1150 configured to perform cell reselection based on whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions are satisfied.

[0150] Network access node 1200 takes the form of an apparatus including: circuitry 1210 configured to transmit an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection is to be applied by a user equipment; and circuitry 1220 configured to transmit an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

[0151] Figure 4 The steps of a method performed at some network nodes are illustrated schematically.

[0152] User equipment 1100 can be configured to execute a method comprising the following steps: 4110: Obtain (e.g., receive from the RAN node) an indication that multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection should be applied; 4120: Obtain (e.g., receive from a RAN node) an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; 4130: Measure the signals received from candidate cells used for cell reselection and one or more other cells; 4140: Based on (or according to) measured signals from candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from one or more other cells, determine whether one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells or cell reselection are satisfied; and 4150: Perform cell reselection based on (or according to) whether one or more multi-connectivity conditions are met.

[0153] For example, based on the determination that multiple connectivity conditions are met, cell reselection can be performed. For example, candidate cells that satisfy the multiple connectivity conditions can be reselected.

[0154] For example, based on the determination that the multi-connectivity conditions are not met, cell reselection may not be performed, or at least no candidate cell may be selected, since the conditions for the candidate cell are not met.

[0155] Network node 1200 can be configured to execute a method that includes the following steps: 4210: Instructions for user equipment to apply multi-connection sensed cell reselection.

[0156] 4220: Transmits an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

[0157] It should be understood that the mechanisms described in the arrangement typically allow the UE's cell reselection behavior to be directed to cells where the UE is likely to establish dual connectivity or carrier aggregation connections. Such direction helps ensure that the UE is more likely to connect within cells capable of supporting multiple high-throughput multi-connectivity connections. For example, this direction can be achieved if the network sets cell reselection conditions so that the cell information visible to the UE allows for some evaluation of whether candidate cells are suitable for DC and / or CA, without restricting cell reselection parameters to cells with active coverage, symmetric CA, or specific frequency band combinations.

[0158] According to the described arrangement, the mechanism on the UE side enables the multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection method to be implemented as follows: the UE can be configured to indicate its dual connectivity capability and carrier aggregation capability to the network. According to the arrangement, a UE with DC / CA capability can receive a message enabling DC / CA-aware cell reselection, as well as an indication of a measurement report or an indication of at least one cell reselection measurement and conditions that need to be met to achieve cell reselection. This message can be received via dedicated signaling or broadcast signaling. Based on the received indication(s), the UE can be configured to measure the received signal from the candidate cell. It should be understood that the priority of CA relative to DC can be implicitly or explicitly notified to the UE via the received indication(s).

[0159] If the UE determines that the DC / CA condition is met based on the measured received signal, the UE can be configured to select the appropriate cell and camp on that cell. If no DC / CA-aware cell reselection condition is met, the UE can be configured to revert to the standard cell reselection condition based on selecting the cell determined to have the best received radio quality (e.g., the highest RSRP) at the UE.

[0160] According to the described arrangement, the network-side mechanism enables the multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection method to be implemented as follows: The network can determine that the UE has dual connectivity and / or carrier aggregation capabilities. The network can determine that it is beneficial for the UE to operate in a high-throughput manner within the network. The network can be configured to signal to the UE that DC / CA-aware cell reselection is enabled. This signaling may include dedicated signaling or broadcast signaling. The signaling may include indications of DC / CA-aware cell reselection parameters / conditions to be applied to the UE. In some arrangements, the network can be configured to set the UE to RRC idle mode or RRC inactive mode, and as part of this process, signal to the UE that DC / CA-based cell reselection information is enabled. Once the UE has performed multi-connectivity cell reselection, the network can be configured to obtain multi-connectivity-related measurements from the UE when establishing an RRC connection with the UE, thereby allowing the network to quickly establish dual connectivity or carrier aggregation for the UE and thus provide high-throughput service.

[0161] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the steps of the various methods described above can be performed by a programmed computer. In this document, some embodiments are also intended to cover program storage devices, such as digital data storage media, which are machine- or computer-readable and encoded with a machine-executable or computer-executable program of instructions that perform some or all of the steps of the methods described above. Program storage devices can be, for example, digital memories, magnetic storage media such as disks and tapes, hard disk drives, or optically readable digital data storage media. Embodiments are also intended to cover computers programmed to perform the steps of the methods described above. As used herein, non-transitory refers to a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signal-based) rather than a limitation of data storage persistence (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0162] As used in this application, the term "circuit" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (e.g., implemented with purely analog and / or digital circuits) and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and (ii) Any part of a hardware processor having software (including (multiple) digital signal processors, software, and (multiple) memories, which work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions) and (c) The operation requires software (e.g., firmware) for the operation of (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or parts thereof, but the software may be absent when the operation does not require the software.

[0163] This definition of "circuit" applies to all uses of the term in this application. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuit" also covers only hardware circuitry or processors (or processors), or portions of hardware circuitry or servers and their accompanying software and / or firmware implementations. For example, where applicable to certain claim elements, the term "circuit" also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or networking devices.

[0164] Although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be understood that modifications may be made to the given examples without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.

[0165] The features described above may be used in combinations other than those explicitly described.

[0166] Although the functionality has been described with reference to certain features, these functions can be performed by other features regardless of whether they are described or not.

[0167] Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, these features may exist in other embodiments, whether or not they are described.

[0168] While efforts have been made in the foregoing description to draw attention to those features of the invention that are considered particularly important, it should be understood that the applicant claims protection for any patentable features or combinations thereof mentioned above and / or shown in the drawings, whether or not they have been given special emphasis thereon.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to: Obtain an indication that the device should apply multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection; as well as Obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the device by the candidate cell; Measure the signals received from the candidate cells and one or more other cells used for cell reselection; Based on measured signals from the candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from the one or more other cells, it is determined whether the one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells used for cell reselection are satisfied. as well as Cell reselection is performed based on whether one or more of the multiple connectivity conditions are met.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the multiple connection conditions include: Conditions associated with establishing dual-connectivity communication or carrier aggregation communication between the device and the candidate cell.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cell for cell reselection include: Radio condition thresholds associated with one or more cells in the cell list.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, causing: Obtain the cell list or an instruction to obtain the cell list.

5. The apparatus of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the radio condition threshold comprises: An indication that cells in the cell list can communicate with the device.

6. The apparatus of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first cell list and radio condition thresholds are associated with the candidate cells for dual connectivity, and the second cell list and radio condition thresholds are associated with the candidate cells for carrier aggregation.

7. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the instruction to be applied by the apparatus for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection includes: Indication of frequency priority to be applied by the device in relation to multi-connectivity sensing cell reselection.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the frequency priority determination is associated with the one or more multi-connectivity conditions for candidate cells used for cell reselection.

9. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells for cell reselection include: Frequency band support combination requirements, and radio condition thresholds associated with one or more additional cells operating in one or more required frequency bands.

10. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frequency priority and one or more multi-connection conditions are configured to allow the apparatus to preferentially perform carrier aggregation communication or dual-connection communication.

11. A method comprising: Obtain an indication of which multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection should be applied; Obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; Measure the signals received from the candidate cells and one or more other cells used for cell reselection; Based on measured signals from the candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from the one or more other cells, it is determined whether the one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells or cell reselection are satisfied; as well as Cell reselection is performed based on whether one or more of the multiple connectivity conditions are met.

12. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being configured to perform at least the following: Obtain an indication of which multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection should be applied; Obtain an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support provided by the candidate cell; Measure the signals received from the candidate cells and one or more other cells used for cell reselection; Based on measured signals from the candidate cells used for cell reselection and measured signals from the one or more other cells, it is determined whether the one or more multiple connectivity conditions associated with the candidate cells or cell reselection are satisfied; as well as Cell reselection is performed based on whether one or more of the multiple connectivity conditions are met.

13. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to: Instructions for user equipment to apply multi-connection-aware cell reselection; as well as Transmits an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein transmitting the indication for multi-connectivity-aware cell reselection to be applied by the user equipment and transmitting the indication for transmitting one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with candidate cells for cell reselection comprises: Transmit dedicated signaling to the user equipment or transmit broadcast signaling to the user equipment.

15. The apparatus of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the apparatus is caused to: determine the multi-connectivity capability of the user equipment, and determine multi-connectivity-aware cell selection suitable for the user equipment.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus causes: Assess whether the service or stream associated with the user equipment requires multi-connection communication capabilities.

17. A method comprising: Instructions for user equipment to apply multi-connection-aware cell reselection; Transmits an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being configured to perform at least the following: Instructions for user equipment to apply multi-connection-aware cell reselection; Transmits an indication of one or more multi-connectivity conditions associated with a candidate cell for cell reselection, wherein the one or more conditions associated with the candidate cell provide an indication of multi-connectivity support for the user equipment by the candidate cell.

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