User equipment context

Abstract

The document describes a user equipment, a network node, a method, and a computer program, including: providing a module request from a first network node to a second network node of a mobile communication system, wherein the module request is related to a user equipment (UE) context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; providing a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; providing a UE capability query to the UE of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to the UE context structure and indicates one or more of the UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; and providing a UE capability module update from the UE, the UE capability module update providing information related to the UE capability module based on the UE capability query.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments may involve user equipment (UE), network node, method, or computer program for providing and / or using user equipment (UE) context information. Background Technology

[0002] With advancements in communication technologies, many UEs (User Equipment) can possess diverse capabilities and fulfill a wide range of services. Different UE types seek to meet varying performance metrics, such as high-speed data connectivity, enhanced energy efficiency, or ultra-low latency. In the 6G era, with the further development of applications with different characteristics, such as augmented / virtual reality (AR / VR), digital / massive twins, immersive smart cities, holographic communications, remote surgery, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, the market is expected to be introduced with more customized devices for these use cases. Factors such as the identification, interoperability, and coherent management of these diverse UE types present challenges. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The scope of protection sought by the various embodiments of the present invention is stated in the independent claims. Embodiments and features described in this specification that are not within the scope of the independent claims, if any, are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding the various embodiments of the invention.

[0004] In a first aspect, this specification describes a user equipment (UE) for a mobile communication system, the UE comprising: components (e.g., a radio receiver) for receiving a UE capability query from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the first network node, and includes a threshold related to parameters of the indicated UE capability components; components (e.g., a control module) for determining whether a change in one or more parameters of the UE capability components exceeds a corresponding threshold (e.g., above an upper threshold and / or below a lower threshold) included in the UE capability query; and components (e.g., an output) for sending a UE capability module update to the network node, the UE capability module update providing information related to a UE capability module having one or more UE capability components having parameter changes determined to exceed the corresponding thresholds.

[0005] UE capability modules may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability modules considered to be relevant. Alternatively or additionally, UE capability components may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability components considered to be relevant.

[0006] In some example embodiments, UE capability module updates include at least one of the following: a binary indication (e.g., a bitmap) indicating whether a change to a corresponding UE capability component parameter exceeds a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: the change to the UE capability component parameter is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; and new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of each UE capability module in the UE context, provided that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold.

[0007] In some example embodiments, each UE capability module is associated with UE functions or elements that can be grouped together based on functionality. For example, the functions may include one or more of the following: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters.

[0008] In a second aspect, this specification describes a first network node (e.g., a source node) of a mobile communication system, the node comprising: a component (e.g., an output) for providing a UE capability query to a user equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the first network node, and includes a threshold related to parameters of the indicated UE capability components; and a component (e.g., an input) for receiving UE capability module updates from the UE, the UE capability module updates providing information related to a UE capability module having one or more UE capability components having parameter changes determined to exceed corresponding thresholds (e.g., above an upper threshold and / or below a lower threshold).

[0009] UE capability modules may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability modules considered to be related. Alternatively or additionally, UE capability components may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability components considered to be related.

[0010] In some example embodiments, UE capability module updates include at least one of the following: a binary indication (e.g., a bitmap) indicating whether a change to a corresponding UE capability component parameter exceeds a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: the change to the UE capability component parameter is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; and new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of each UE capability module in the UE context, in the case that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold.

[0011] Nodes may also include components (e.g., control modules) for breaking down a complete UE capability into said UE capability modules, wherein each UE capability module is associated with a functional module or element that can be grouped together based on function or in some other way. For example, each UE capability module or component may contain a set of parameters that can be grouped together based on function.

[0012] In a third aspect, this specification describes a user equipment (UE) for a mobile communication system, the UE comprising: a component (e.g., radio input) for receiving a UE capability query from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system; and a component (e.g., output) for sending a UE capability module update to the first network node, the UE capability module update providing information related to the UE capability module based on the UE capability query. The UE may also include a component (e.g., input) for receiving a handover command from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0013] UE capability modules may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability modules that are considered relevant by the second network node. Alternatively or additionally, UE capability components may have identifiers, and UE capability queries may include identifiers of UE capability components that are considered relevant by the second network node.

[0014] In some example embodiments, each UE capability module is associated with UE functions or elements that can be grouped together based on functionality. For example, the functions may include one or more of the following: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters.

[0015] In some example embodiments, the UE capability query includes a threshold related to a parameter of the indicated UE capability component, and the UE also includes a component for determining whether a change in one or more parameters of the capability component exceeds a corresponding threshold included in the UE capability query. As discussed above with respect to the first and second aspects, a UE capability module update may include at least one of the following: a binary indication (e.g., a bitmap) of whether a change in a corresponding UE capability component parameter exceeds a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: for a UE capability component parameter change determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; and new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of each UE capability module in the UE context, provided that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change determined to exceed a corresponding threshold.

[0016] In a fourth aspect, this specification describes a first network node (e.g., a source node) of a mobile communication system, the first network node comprising: a component (e.g., an output) for providing a module request to a second network node (e.g., a target node) of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is associated with a user equipment (UE) context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; a component (e.g., an input) for receiving a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; a component (e.g., an output) for providing a UE capability query to the UE of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with the UE context structure and the UE capability query indicates one or more of the UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; and a component (e.g., an input) for receiving a UE capability module update from the UE, the UE capability module update providing information related to the UE capability module according to the UE capability query.

[0017] The first network node may also include components (e.g., output) for providing a handover request to the second network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0018] The first network node may also include components (e.g., output) for providing handover commands to the UE to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0019] In a fifth aspect, this specification describes a second network node (e.g., a target node) of a mobile communication system, the second network node comprising: means (e.g., input) for receiving a module request from a first network node (e.g., a source node) of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request relates to a user equipment, a UE, and a context structure including a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; and components (e.g., output) for providing a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node. The second network node may further include components (e.g., input) for receiving a handover request from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0020] In a sixth aspect, this specification describes a method comprising: receiving a UE capability query from a first network node of a mobile communication system at a user equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the first network node, and includes a threshold related to parameters of the indicated UE capability components; determining whether a change in one or more parameters of the UE capability components exceeds a corresponding threshold included in the UE capability query; and sending a UE capability module update to the network node, the UE capability module update providing information related to a UE capability module having one or more UE capability components having parameter changes determined to exceed the corresponding threshold.

[0021] In a seventh aspect, this specification describes a method comprising: providing a UE capability query from a network node of a mobile communication system to a user equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a first network node, and includes a threshold related to parameters of the indicated UE capability components; and receiving a UE capability module update from the UE, the UE capability module update providing information related to a UE capability module having one or more UE capability components having parameter changes determined to exceed corresponding thresholds. The method may further include splitting a complete UE capability into the UE capability modules, wherein each UE capability module is associated with a functional module or element that can be grouped together based on function or in some other way. For example, each UE capability module or component may contain a set of parameters that can be grouped together based on function.

[0022] In an eighth aspect, this specification describes a method comprising: receiving a UE capability query at a user equipment (UE) of a mobile communication system from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to a UE context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system; and sending a UE capability module update to the first network node, the UE capability module update providing information related to the UE capability modules according to the UE capability query. The method may further include receiving a handover command from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0023] In a ninth aspect, this specification describes a method comprising: providing a module request from a first network node (e.g., a source node) of a mobile communication system to a second network node (e.g., a target node) of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is associated with a user equipment (UE) context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; a component (e.g., input) for receiving a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; providing a UE capability query to the UE of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is associated with the UE context structure and the UE capability query indicates one or more of the UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node; and receiving a UE capability module update from the UE. The UE capability module update provides information related to the UE capability modules based on the UE capability query. The method may further include providing a handover request to the second network node to initiate a handover to the second network node. The method may further include providing a handover command to the UE to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0024] In a tenth aspect, this specification describes a method comprising: receiving, at a second network node (e.g., a target node) of a mobile communication system, a module request from a first network node (e.g., a source node) of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is related to a user equipment (UE) context structure comprising a plurality of UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; and providing a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the second network node. The method may further include receiving a handover request from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0025] Among the various methods outlined above, UE capability module updates may include at least one of the following: a binary indication (e.g., a bitmap) of whether a change to a corresponding UE capability component parameter exceeds a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: the change to the UE capability component parameter is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; and new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of each UE capability module in the UE context, provided that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change determined to exceed the corresponding threshold.

[0026] In the eleventh aspect, this specification describes computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to perform (at least) any of the methods described herein (including the methods described in the sixth to tenth aspects above).

[0027] In a twelfth aspect, this specification describes a computer-readable medium (such as a non-transitory computer-readable medium) including program instructions stored thereon for performing (at least) any of the methods described herein (including the methods described in the sixth to tenth aspects above).

[0028] In a thirteenth aspect, this specification describes a computer program product including program instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform (at least) any of the methods described herein (including the methods described in aspects six through ten above).

[0029] In a fourteenth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform (at least) any of the methods described herein (including the methods described in aspects six through ten above). Attached Figure Description

[0030] Exemplary embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a block diagram of the example system; Figure 2 An example message stream sequence is shown; Figure 3 A message stream sequence according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 4 The data structure according to the example embodiment is shown; Figure 5 A flowchart according to an example embodiment is shown; Figures 6 to 8 A message stream sequence according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 9 These are schematic diagrams that can be used to implement one or more systems in the example embodiments; and Figure 10 A tangible medium for storing computer-readable code is shown, which, when run by a computer, can perform methods according to the example embodiments described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an example system, generally indicated by reference numeral 10. System 10 includes a user equipment (UE) 12 and a network node 14 of a mobile communication system. Figure 1 As shown, UE 12 provides UE context information to network nodes.

[0032] In 3GPP specifications, UE context typically refers to information about a specific UE that the network can maintain. Stored UE context enables the network to manage and optimize radio connections for the corresponding UE. Information included in the UE context may include UE capabilities, such as features supported by the UE, operating frequency bands, and MIMO capabilities, and may also include parameters such as the UE's authentication credentials and security parameters, the UE's QoS requirements, the UE's session management data, the IP address assigned to the UE, the services used by the UE, and device location details.

[0033] Figure 2 An example message flow sequence, generally indicated by reference numeral 20, is shown. Sequence 20 illustrates messages transmitted between UE 12 of system 10 and network node 14.

[0034] Sequence 20 begins with network node 14 sending a UE capability query message 22 to UE 12. In response, the UE provides the requested UE context in message 24. The UE context can then be stored at network node 14.

[0035] The storage of the UE context at network node 14 (such as the gNB) or at another entity (e.g., the Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF) that the gNB has access to and can retrieve when necessary) helps the relevant network allocate resources to UE 12 based on the UE's capabilities and the services being used (or available). The UE context also enables the network to provide better quality of service, with faster data rates, lower latency, and improved reliability. Additionally, the UE context can be referenced to provide personalized services such as targeted advertising and location-based recommendations.

[0036] The UE context may be completely known to UE 12, but it is a large dataset. Storing the complete UE context dataset for each UE communicating with the network node could consume a large portion of the network node's storage capacity; this is generally impractical. However, it may not always be necessary to send the complete dataset from UE 12 to network node 14 via the wireless channel.

[0037] Figure 3 A message flow sequence, generally indicated by reference numeral 30, is shown according to an example embodiment. Sequence 30 illustrates messages transmitted between UE 32 (similar to UE 12 described above) and network node 34 (similar to network node 14 described above). Network node 34 may be the source node of a mobile communication system.

[0038] Message sequence 30 begins with a UE capability query 36 sent from the first network node 34 to the UE 32. The UE capability query 36 is associated with a UE context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by the first network node, and includes thresholds related to parameters of the indicated UE capabilities and / or UE capability components.

[0039] Upon receiving a UE capability query 36, the UE 32 determines whether a change in one or more parameters of a plurality of capability components exceeds a corresponding threshold included in the UE capability query. For example, step 37 may include determining whether any parameter change among those parameter changes is higher than a relevant upper limit threshold or lower than a relevant lower limit threshold.

[0040] Message sequence 30 ends when UE 32 sends UE capability module update 38 to network node 34. UE capability module update 38 provides information related to a UE capability module that has one or more UE capability components whose parameter changes are determined to exceed a corresponding threshold.

[0041] Therefore, a UE capability module update 38 is provided in response to the detection of a trigger at UE 32. Note that other triggers (other than or in lieu of the threshold arrangement described above) are possible.

[0042] Figure 4 The data structure, generally indicated by reference numeral 40, according to an example embodiment is shown. Data structure 40 can be used in the UE capability query 36 above.

[0043] Data structure 40 divides the UE context information into multiple modules, each with an identifier; modules ID1, ID2, and IDT are located in... Figure 4As shown in the diagram. Data structure 40 further subdivides each module into sub-modules (often referred to herein as UE capability components). For example, the first module (with identifier ID1) has sub-modules (or UE capability components) ID1.1, ID1.2 through ID1.P. Each UE capability component includes multiple parameters.

[0044] Data structure 40 enables UE capability module update message 38 to transmit at least the parameters of the updated UE capability components (instead of sending the complete UE context as in message 24).

[0045] Data structure 40 can be used to break down a complete UE capability into UE capability modules or UE capability components, where each UE capability module or component is associated with a functional module (or can be grouped together based on function). Example UE functions include: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data aggregation protocol (PDCP) parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters.

[0046] Alternatively or otherwise, different UE capability modules can provide different module versions. For example, different versions may involve the same parameters of the same module but with different thresholds. The version used may be configured, for example, by the gNB (or some other network node); alternatively or otherwise, (multiple) versions may be configured by a standards body (e.g., 3GPP). For example, a module with "ID1" may involve MIMO parameters of 3GPP release 21, while a module with "ID20" may involve MIMO parameters of 3GPP release 22. Therefore, when operating under 3GPP release 21, the relevant network node (e.g., gNB) may request the version with ID1, and when operating under 3GPP release 22, it may request the version with ID20.

[0047] Figure 5 A flowchart, generally indicated by reference numeral 50, is shown according to an example embodiment. Flowchart 50 can be implemented at the UE 32 described above.

[0048] At step 52 of flowchart 50, the UE (e.g., UE 32) receives a UE capability query from a first network node of the mobile communication system (e.g., network node 34, such as gNB); this is the aforementioned message 36. The UE capability query may include UE capability modules and / or UE capability components with identifiers, wherein the query includes identifiers of the UE capability modules / components considered to be relevant.

[0049] At step 54 of flowchart 50, the UE determines whether any capability parameters (e.g., those stored with the corresponding UE capability components) have changed to the extent that they exceed a corresponding threshold. If not, flowchart 50 ends at step 58.

[0050] If it is determined in step 54 that the relevant UE capability parameter has changed by an amount exceeding the indicated threshold (e.g., by being above the upper threshold or below the lower threshold), the UE notifies the network in step 56 of flowchart 50.

[0051] Step 56 can take many forms. For example, the UE can send an update with new values ​​for at least one or more capability parameters, the change for which is determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; this could be all parameters, only those exceeding the corresponding threshold, or somewhere in between. In some example implementations, the UE provides a binary indication of whether a change to a corresponding UE capability component parameter exceeds a corresponding threshold. Such a binary indication can also be used to indicate that a UE capability component parameter that previously exceeded a corresponding threshold (e.g., below an upper threshold or above a lower threshold) is now within the threshold.

[0052] Other variations of step 56 include sending: new values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: the change for the UE capability component parameter exceeding what has been determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters for a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change that has been determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters for a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change that has been determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; and new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters for each UE capability module of the UE context, in the case that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change that has been determined to exceed a corresponding threshold.

[0053] As shown in the message sequence 30 above, network node 34 (e.g., source node) provides UE capability query 36 to UE 32 (a message received by the UE in step 52 of flowchart 50) and receives UE capability module update 38 from the UE (a message sent by the UE in step 56).

[0054] Figure 6 The diagram illustrates a general message flow sequence indicated by reference numeral 60 according to an example embodiment. Sequence 60 shows messages transmitted between UE 62 and network 64. Network 64 includes a next-generation Node B, gNB 64a, and Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 64b (of course, network 64 will generally have more than...). Figure 6(More elements are shown). Sequence 60 is an example RRC message sequence used for UE capability queries performed by gNB64a.

[0055] The sequence begins with gNB 64a sending a UE capability query D-1 to UE 62, which includes details of the relevant UE capability module ID. In response, at step D-2, the UE provides a UE capability response.

[0056] In some example embodiments, the partitioning of the UE context to UE capability modules is performed before steps D-1 and D-2. In this configuration, if the partitioning has not been transmitted previously, the gNB can also use request D-1 to send specific module details, and the UE 62 can respond in step D-2 by sending only updates to the modules that the network has already requested. The network 64 can then make the necessary changes only to the specific modules (e.g., the corresponding UE capability modules).

[0057] In an alternative embodiment, after step D-2, gNB 64a performs the partitioning of the UE context into UE capability modules. In this case, an additional step D-3 can be provided, wherein after receiving the UE capability response D-2 from UE 62, gNB 64a analyzes the complete UE capabilities and breaks them down into UE capability modules (e.g., MIMO, carrier aggregation configuration, RLC, PDCP, security context, mobility context, application context, etc.).

[0058] At step D-4, gNB 64a sends a UE capability module update message to UE 62. This message (which may be message 36 of sequence 30 above) informs UE 62 of the capabilities that network 64 is interested in and provides or updates thresholds to indicate any changes to specific parameters. The network may also include a UE capability module ID, which the UE can later use to indicate to the network that it still supports the previously defined set of modules if needed.

[0059] At step D-5, if the UE determines that it needs to provide updated UE capabilities to the network (e.g., if a relevant trigger has occurred, such as exceeding a threshold), these updates are included together with an acknowledgment message.

[0060] UE 62 continues to monitor the threshold defined in the UE capability module update message, and if the threshold is subsequently exceeded, the UE sends another UE capability module update message (see example step D-6).

[0061] If network 64 decides to reconfigure the group and the module to be updated, then in step D-7 another UE capability module update request is sent (similar to the request sent in step D-4), and in step D-8 a UE capability module update response is sent (similar to step D-5 above).

[0062] Note that the threshold-based UE capability update process can be used with at least some existing non-modular UE capability structures.

[0063] Figure 7 A message flow sequence, generally indicated by reference numeral 70, is shown according to an example embodiment. Sequence 70 illustrates messages between UE 71, a first network node 72, and a second network node 73. The first network node 72 may be a source node of the mobile communication system, and the second network node 73 may be a target node of the mobile communication system.

[0064] Message sequence 70 begins with the first network node 72 providing a module request 74 to the second network node. The module request 74 is associated with a UE context structure that includes multiple UE capability modules, each of which has a set of one or more UE capability components.

[0065] The second network node 73 provides a module request response 75 (in response to request 74) to the first network node 72. The module request response 75 indicates one or more UE capability modules / components that the second network node deems relevant. As discussed elsewhere, UE capability modules / components may relate to UE functions (e.g., one or more of the following: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data convergence protocol PDCP parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters).

[0066] The first network node 72 provides a UE capability query 76 to the UE 71. The UE capability query is related to the UE context structure mentioned above. For example, UE capability modules / components may have identifiers, and the UE capability query 76 may include identifiers of UE capability modules / components considered relevant. Query 76 may identify some or all modules to which the update requested by the second network node in the module request response 75 is targeted; this may help create a better configuration for the UE 71 after a switchover to the second network node 73.

[0067] UE 71 provides UE capability module update 78 to the first network node 72 (in response to query 76). UE capability module update 78 provides information related to the UE capability module based on UE capability query 76. Update 78 may be sent in response to the detection of a trigger event 77 at the UE. The trigger may be related, for example, to whether a change in one or more capability component parameters exceeds a corresponding threshold (e.g., as defined in UE capability query 76), as discussed in detail above. Therefore, messages 76 and 78 may be similar to messages 36 and 38 described above.

[0068] Finally, a handover 79 may occur from the first network node 72 to the second network node 73 (e.g., causing the second network node to take over as the source node for UE 71). The handover 79 may include a handover command provided from the first network node to initiate the handover to the second network node, as discussed further below.

[0069] Figure 8 The overall message flow sequence, indicated by reference numeral 80, according to an example embodiment is shown. Sequence 80 provides further details of the example implementation of sequence 70 described above.

[0070] Sequence 80 illustrates messages between UE 82, first network node gNB 84 (an example of the first network node 72 described above), and second gNB 86 (an example of the second network node 73 described above). Core network 88 is also shown. First gNB 84 includes a user plane (U plane) 84a and a control plane (C plane) 84b. Similarly, second gNB 86 includes a U plane 86a and a C plane 86b. First gNB 82 can be a source node, and second gNB 86 can be a destination node.

[0071] In step 1, the first gNB 84 and the second gNB 86 reach an agreement on the inter-gNB level modules that need to be updated. As part of this process, a module request is sent from the C-plane 84b of the first gNB to the C-plane 86b of the second gNB.

[0072] In step 2, the C-plane 86b of the second gNB 86 provides a module request response to the C-plane 84b of the first gNB 84. The module request response provides a trigger for UE capability module updates (such as threshold levels, as described above). In this way, the second gNB 86 can define UE parameters of interest to the second gNB (optionally with relevant thresholds).

[0073] In step 3, the C-plane 84b of the first gNB 84 sends an RRC reconfiguration message to the UE 82. The RRC reconfiguration message includes information about the UE's capability modules and measurement configuration. The RRC reconfiguration message thus informs the UE 82 that the UE needs to update its capabilities along with the measurement results.

[0074] UE 84 confirms the RRC configuration used for measurement and UE capability update by sending an RRC reconfiguration complete response to the second gNB 84 (step 4).

[0075] In step 5, the measurement and UE capability update trigger occurs at UE 82. As discussed in detail above, the trigger can be a parameter change that exceeds a defined threshold (e.g., above an upper threshold level or below a lower threshold level).

[0076] In step 6, UE 82 sends the measurement results. First gNB 84 receives the measurement results at its C-plane 84b (e.g., UE capability module update). First gNB 84 may deliver the updated UE capability module to second gNB 86 (e.g., in a handover request from first gNB to second gNB).

[0077] In step 7, the handover request, along with the updated UE capability module, is sent from the C-plane of the first gNB 84 to the C-plane of the second gNB 86. The handover request can initiate a handover to the second gNB 86.

[0078] At step 8, the C-plane 86b of the second gNB 86 confirms the handover request and uses UE capability module information to optimize the UE configuration.

[0079] At step 9, the C-plane 84b of the first gNB 84 sends a handover command to the UE 82 as part of an RRC reconfiguration message, thereby initiating a handover to the second gNB. The handover command may include rules for updating the UE capability modules associated with the target cell module (second gNB 86). Measurement configuration may be performed at the UE prior to the handover.

[0080] In step 10, the switch to the second gNB 86 is performed.

[0081] Note that in some example embodiments, UE capability modules may be stored in a separate database (or AMF), and the gNB can access the module's contents from the database. The gNB can then request the UE to update the current values ​​of the UE capabilities associated with a specific module.

[0082] Example device Figure 9An apparatus according to some example embodiments is shown, which may include a user terminal 100. The apparatus may be configured to perform operations described herein, such as those described with reference to any disclosed process. The apparatus includes at least one processor 102 and at least one memory 104 directly or closely connected to the processor. The memory 104 may include at least one random access memory (RAM) and at least one read-only memory (ROM). Computer program code (software) 105 may be stored in the ROM. The apparatus may be connected to a transmitter (TX) and a receiver (RX) (see radio interface 106). The apparatus may optionally be connected to a user interface (UI) 108 for instruction means and / or for output data. At least one processor 102 having at least one memory 104 and computer program code 105 is arranged to cause the apparatus to perform at least the methods according to any of the foregoing processes, such as those described above. Figure 2 , 3 The flowcharts and message sequences of 5, 6, 7, and 8, and their associated characteristics are disclosed.

[0083] Figure 10 A non-transitory medium 150 according to some embodiments is shown. The non-transitory medium 150 is a computer-readable storage medium. It may be, for example, a CD, DVD, USB stick, Blu-ray disc, etc. The non-transitory medium 150 stores computer program code that causes a device to perform a method, such as any of the aforementioned processes disclosed with respect to the flowchart and its related features.

[0084] The names of network elements, protocols, and methods are based on current standards. In other versions or other technologies, the names of these network elements and / or protocols and / or methods may differ, as long as they provide the corresponding functionality. For example, embodiments may be deployed in 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G networks and another generation of 3GPP, or in non-3GPP radio networks such as WiFi.

[0085] The memory can be volatile or non-volatile. It can be, for example, RAM, SRAM, flash memory, FPGA block RAM, DCD, CD, USB stick, and Blu-ray disc.

[0086] Unless otherwise stated or clearly understood from the context, two entities being distinct statements means that they perform different functions. It does not necessarily mean they are based on different hardware. That is, each entity described in this specification may be based on different hardware, or some or all entities may be based on the same hardware. It does not necessarily mean they are based on different software. That is, each entity described in this specification may be based on different software, or some or all entities may be based on the same software. Each entity described in this specification may be embodied in the cloud.

[0087] As a non-limiting example, implementations of any of the foregoing boxes, devices, systems, techniques, or methods include implementations as hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof. Some embodiments may be implemented in the cloud.

[0088] It should be understood that the above content is what is currently considered to be the preferred embodiment. However, it should be noted that the description of the preferred embodiment is given by way of example only, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope defined by the appended claims.

[0089] Clause 1. A user equipment (UE) for a mobile communication system, the UE comprising: At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions, wherein when executed by at least one processor, the instructions cause the UE to at least: A UE capability query is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to a UE context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, and wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system; and Send a UE capability module update to the first network node. The UE capability module update provides information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

[0090] Clause 2. The UE pursuant to Clause 1, wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Receive a handover command from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0091] Clause 3. A UE according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the UE capability module has an identifier, and wherein the UE capability query includes the identifier of the UE capability module that is considered relevant by the second network node.

[0092] Clause 4. A UE pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the UE capability component has an identifier, and wherein the UE capability query includes the identifier of the UE capability component that is considered relevant by the second network node.

[0093] Clause 5. A UE pursuant to any of the preceding clauses, wherein each UE capability module is associated with a UE function or element that can be grouped together based on function.

[0094] Clause 6. A UE pursuant to Clause 5, wherein the functions include one or more of the following: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data aggregation protocol (PDCP) parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters.

[0095] Clause 7. A UE pursuant to any of the clauses, wherein the UE capability query includes a threshold related to the parameters of the indicated UE capability component, and wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Determine whether changes to one or more parameters of a capability component exceed the corresponding thresholds included in the UE capability query.

[0096] Clause 8. For a UE pursuant to Clause 7, where the UE capability module update includes at least one of the following: A binary indication of whether changes to the parameters of the corresponding UE capability components exceed the corresponding threshold; New values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: changes to UE capability component parameters are determined to exceed the corresponding thresholds; New values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change that is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; New values ​​for UE capability component parameters of a UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change that is determined to exceed a corresponding threshold; and If any UE capability component parameter in the UE context is determined to have changed beyond the corresponding threshold, the new values ​​for all UE capability component parameters for each UE capability module in the UE context.

[0097] Clause 9. A first network node of a mobile communication system, the first network node comprising: At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause the node to at least: A module request is provided to a second network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is related to a user equipment UE context structure that includes multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; Receive a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that are considered relevant by the second network node; Provide a UE capability query to the UE of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to the UE context structure, and the UE capability query indicates one or more of the UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that are considered relevant by the second network node; and The system receives UE capability module updates from the UE, which provide information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

[0098] Clause 10. According to Clause 9, the first network node, wherein the instruction also causes the UE to at least: Send a handover request to the second network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0099] Clause 11. The first network node pursuant to Clause 9 or 10, wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Provide the UE with a handover command to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0100] Clause 12. A second network node of a mobile communication system, the second network node comprising: At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by at least one processor, cause the node to at least: A module request is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is related to a user equipment (UE) context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; and Provide a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that are considered relevant by the second network node.

[0101] Clause 13. The second network node pursuant to Clause 12, wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Receive a handover request from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

[0102] Clause 14. A method comprising: At the User Equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, a UE capability query is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system. The UE capability query is related to a UE context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components. The UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system. Send a UE capability module update to the first network node. The UE capability module update provides information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

[0103] Clause 15. A computer program product comprising program instructions that, when executed by a computing device, cause the computing device to: At the User Equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, a UE capability query is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system. The UE capability query is related to a UE context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components. The UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components deemed relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system. Send a UE capability module update to the first network node. The UE capability module update provides information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

Claims

1. A user equipment (UE) for a mobile communication system, the UE comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the UE to at least: A UE capability query is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to a UE context structure including multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components, and wherein the UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that are considered relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system. as well as Send a UE capability module update to the first network node. The UE capability module update provides information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

2. The UE according to claim 1, wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Receive a handover command from the first network node to initiate a handover to the second network node.

3. The UE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the UE capability module has an identifier, and wherein the UE capability query includes the identifier of the UE capability module considered relevant by the second network node.

4. The UE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the UE capability component has an identifier, and wherein the UE capability query includes the identifier of the UE capability component considered relevant by the second network node.

5. The UE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each UE capability module is associated with a UE function or element that can be grouped together based on function.

6. The UE according to claim 5, wherein the functions include one or more of the following: MIMO parameters, carrier aggregation configuration parameters, radio link control parameters, packet data aggregation protocol (PDCP) parameters, security parameters, mobility parameters, and application parameters.

7. The UE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the UE capability query includes a threshold related to a parameter of the indicated UE capability component, and wherein the instruction further causes the UE to at least: Determine whether the change of one or more parameters of the capability component exceeds the corresponding threshold included in the UE capability query.

8. The UE according to claim 7, wherein the UE capability module update includes at least one of the following: A binary indication of whether changes to the parameters of the corresponding UE capability components exceed the corresponding threshold; New values ​​for at least the following UE capability component parameters: the change for the UE capability component parameter is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; New values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of a UE capability component, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability component has a change that is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; New values ​​for all UE capability component parameters of the UE capability module, wherein any UE capability component parameter of the corresponding UE capability module has a change that is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold; as well as In the event that any UE capability component parameter in the UE context has a change that is determined to exceed the corresponding threshold, the new values ​​of all UE capability component parameters for each UE capability module in the UE context.

9. A first network node of a mobile communication system, the first network node comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the node to at least: A module request is provided to a second network node of the mobile communication system, wherein the module request is related to a user equipment UE context structure comprising multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components; Receive a module request response to the first network node, wherein the module request response indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that the second network node considers relevant; Provide a UE capability query to the UE of the mobile communication system, wherein the UE capability query is related to the UE context structure, and the UE capability query indicates one or more of the UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that the second network node considers to be relevant; as well as The UE receives UE capability module updates, which provide information related to the UE capability module that can be queried based on the UE capability.

10. A method for communication, comprising: At the user equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system, a UE capability query is received from a first network node of the mobile communication system. The UE capability query is related to a UE context structure that includes multiple UE capability modules, each UE capability module having a set of one or more UE capability components. The UE capability query indicates one or more UE capability modules and / or UE capability components that are considered relevant by a second network node of the mobile communication system. as well as A UE capability module update is sent to the first network node, the UE capability module update providing information related to the UE capability module as queried based on the UE capability.

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