Method and apparatus for designing a radio access network control plane in a communication system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G communication system or a 6G communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4G communication system such as long term evolution (LTE). Embodiments herein provide a method and system for designing a RAN control plane in a communication system. The method includes establishing a radio connection for a UE (602) through an EPS (200). Further, the method includes enabling the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection. Further, the method includes configuring different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE. The different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200).

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DESIGNING A RADIO ACCESS NETWORK CONTROL PLANE IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

[0001] This application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application202441065695filed on 30thAugust 2024 the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The present disclosure is related to the field of wireless communication. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to a method and system for designing a radio access network (RAN) control plane in a communication system.

[0002] Considering the development of wireless communication from generation to generation, the technologies have been developed mainly for services targeting humans, such as voice calls, multimedia services, and data services. Following the commercialization of 5G (5th generation) communication systems, it is expected that the number of connected devices will exponentially grow. Increasingly, these will be connected to communication networks. Examples of connected things may include vehicles, robots, drones, home appliances, displays, smart sensors connected to various infrastructures, construction machines, and factory equipment. Mobile devices are expected to evolve in various form-factors, such as augmented reality glasses, virtual reality headsets, and hologram devices. In order to provide various services by connecting hundreds of billions of devices and things in the 6G (6th generation) era, there have been ongoing efforts to develop improved 6G communication systems. For these reasons, 6G communication systems are referred to as beyond-5G systems.

[0003] 6G communication systems, which are expected to be commercialized around 2030, will have a peak data rate of tera (1,000 giga)-level bit per second (bps) and a radio latency less than 100μsec, and thus will be 50 times as fast as 5G communication systems and have the 1 / 10 radio latency thereof.

[0004] In order to accomplish such a high data rate and an ultra-low latency, it has been considered to implement 6G communication systems in a terahertz (THz) band (for example, 95 gigahertz (GHz) to 3THz bands). It is expected that, due to severer path loss and atmospheric absorption in the terahertz bands than those in mmWave bands introduced in 5G, technologies capable of securing the signal transmission distance (that is, coverage) will become more crucial. It is necessary to develop, as major technologies for securing the coverage, Radio Frequency (RF) elements, antennas, novel waveforms having a better coverage than Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), beamforming and massive Multiple-input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Full Dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and multiantenna transmission technologies such as large-scale antennas. In addition, there has been ongoing discussion on new technologies for improving the coverage of terahertz-band signals, such as metamaterial-based lenses and antennas, Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM), and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS).

[0005] Moreover, in order to improve the spectral efficiency and the overall network performances, the following technologies have been developed for 6G communication systems: a full-duplex technology for enabling an uplink transmission and a downlink transmission to simultaneously use the same frequency resource at the same time; a network technology for utilizing satellites, High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), and the like in an integrated manner; an improved network structure for supporting mobile base stations and the like and enabling network operation optimization and automation and the like; a dynamic spectrum sharing technology via collision avoidance based on a prediction of spectrum usage; an use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in wireless communication for improvement of overall network operation by utilizing AI from a designing phase for developing 6G and internalizing end-to-end AI support functions; and a next-generation distributed computing technology for overcoming the limit of UE computing ability through reachable super-high-performance communication and computing resources (such as Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), clouds, and the like) over the network. In addition, through designing new protocols to be used in 6G communication systems, developing mechanisms for implementing a hardware-based security environment and safe use of data, and developing technologies for maintaining privacy, attempts to strengthen the connectivity between devices, optimize the network, promote softwarization of network entities, and increase the openness of wireless communications are continuing.

[0006] It is expected that research and development of 6G communication systems in hyper-connectivity, including person to machine (P2M) as well as machine to machine (M2M), will allow the next hyper-connected experience. Particularly, it is expected that services such as truly immersive eXtended Reality (XR), high-fidelity mobile hologram, and digital replica could be provided through 6G communication systems. In addition, services such as remote surgery for security and reliability enhancement, industrial automation, and emergency response will be provided through the 6G communication system such that the technologies could be applied in various fields such as industry, medical care, automobiles, and home appliances.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to method and apparatus for designing a radio access network control plane in a communication system in a wireless communication system.

[0008] According to an aspect of an exemplary embodiment, there is provided a communication method in a wireless communication system.

[0009] Aspects of the present disclosure provide efficient communication methods in a wireless communication system.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0011] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram that illustrates a schematic of a network apparatus implemented to carry out the disclosed subject matter according to anembodimentas disclosed herein.

[0012] Figs. 2A-B are block diagrams that illustrate an architecture of the EPS according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0013] Figs. 3A-B are block diagrams that illustrate architecture differences between limited capability UEs and enhanced capability UEs according an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0014] Figs. 4A-B are block diagrams that illustrate different architectures of the RAN control plane when the EPS is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0015] Fig. 5 is a block diagram that illustrates an architecture of the RAN control plane when the EPS is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0016] Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram that illustrates an adoption of a mobility service when the EPS is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0017] Fig. 7 is a sequence diagram that illustrates an adoption of a minimization of drive tests (MDT) service when the EPS is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0018] Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram that illustrates the adoption of the mobility service when the EPS is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0019] Fig. 9 is a sequence diagram that illustrates the adoption of the MDT service when the EPS is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0020] Figs. 10A-B are flow diagrams that illustrates a method for designing the RAN control plane in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment as disclosed herein.

[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a user equipment, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of a base station, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of a network entity, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] In an aspect, the objectives are achieved by providing a method for designing a RAN control plane in a communication system. The method includes establishing a radio connection for a UE through an EPS. Further, the method includes enabling the UE to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS, upon establishment of the radio connection. Further, the method includes configuring different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE. The different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS.

[0025] In another aspect, the objectives are achieved by providing a network apparatus for designing a RAN control plane in a wireless communication system. The network apparatus includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and a RAN controller communicatively coupled to the processor and the memory. The RAN controller establishes a radio connection for a UE through an EPS. Further, the RAN controller enables the UE to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS, upon establishment of the radio connection. Further, the RAN controller configures different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE. The different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS.

[0026] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood,however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications be made within the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0027] Hereinafter, embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] In describing the embodiments, descriptions related to technical contents well-known in the art and not associated directly with the disclosure will be omitted. Such an omission of unnecessary descriptions is intended to prevent obscuring of the main idea of the disclosure and more clearly transfer the main idea.

[0029] For the same reason, in the accompanying drawings, some elements may be exaggerated, omitted, or schematically illustrated. Further, the size of each element does not completely reflect the actual size. In the drawings, identical or corresponding elements are provided with identical reference numerals or different reference numerals.

[0030] The advantages and features of the disclosure and ways to achieve them will be apparent by making reference to embodiments as described below in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to the embodiments set forth below, but may be implemented in various different forms. The following embodiments are provided only to completely disclose the disclosure and inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure, and the disclosure is defined only by the scope of the appended claims. Throughout the specification, the same or like reference numerals designate the same or like elements. Furthermore, in describing the disclosure, a detailed description of known functions or constitution incorporated herein will be omitted in the case that it is determined that the description may make the subject matter of the disclosure unnecessarily unclear. The terms which will be described below are terms defined in consideration of the functions in the disclosure, and may be different according to users, intentions of the operators, or customs. Therefore, the definitions of the terms should be made based on the contents throughout the specification.

[0031] Herein, it will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations, may be performed based on computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded collectively onto at least one processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which perform through any one of, or in any combination of, the at least one processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for performing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s). These computer program instructions may also be stored in a non-transitory computer usable or computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer usable or computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means that perform the function specified in the flowchart block(s). The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a computer executed process such that the instructions that perform on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus provide steps for executing the functions specified in the flowchart block(s).

[0032] Further, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which includes one or more executable instructions for executing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order. For example, two blocks(or functions) shown in succession may in fact be performed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be performed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

[0033] As used in embodiments of the disclosure, a “~unit” may refer to a software element or a hardware element, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which performs a predetermined function. However, the term including the word “~unit” does not always have a meaning limited to software or hardware. The “~unit” may be constructed either to be stored in an addressable storage medium or to execute one or more processors. Therefore, the “~unit” includes, for example, software elements, object-oriented software elements, components such as class elements and task elements, processes, functions, properties, procedures, sub-routines, segments of a program code, drivers, firmware, micro-codes, circuits, data, database, data structures, tables, arrays, and parameters. The components and functions provided by the “~unit” may be either combined into a smaller number of components and a “~unit,” or divided into additional components and a “~unit.” Moreover, the components and “~units” may be implemented to reproduce one or more central processing units (CPUs) within a device or a security multimedia card. Further, in the embodiments, the “~unit” may include one or more processors.

[0034] It should be appreciated that the blocks in each flowchart and combinations of the flowcharts may be performed by one or more computer programs which include instructions. The entirety of the one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device or the one or more computer programs may be divided with different portions stored in different multiple memory devices.

[0035] Any of the functions or operations described herein can be processed by one processor or a combination of processors. The one processor or the combination of processors is circuitry performing processing and includes circuitry like an application processor (AP, e.g. a CPU), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth® chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or the like.

[0036] It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure according to the claims and description in the specification can be realized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0037] Any such software may be stored in non-transitory computer readable storage media. The non-transitory computer readable storage media store one or more computer programs (software modules), the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device individually or collectively, cause the electronic device to perform a method of the disclosure.

[0038] Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage such as, for example, a storage device like read only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory such as, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, device or integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readable medium such as, for example, a compact disk (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), magnetic disk or magnetic tape or the like. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a computer program or computer programs comprising instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a program comprising code for implementing apparatus or a method as claimed in any one of the claims of this specification and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing such a program.

[0039] Hereinafter, the determination of priority between A and B in the present disclosure may refer to various actions such as selecting the one having a higher priority based on a predefined priority rule and performing an operation corresponding thereto, or omitting or dropping an operation corresponding to the one having a lower priority.

[0040] Hereinafter, "A or B" as described in the present disclosure may be understood as "A and / or B," which may include A, or B, or both A and B.

[0041] In addition, "at least one of A, B, and C" as described in the present disclosure may be understood to include A, or B, or C, or any combination of A, B, and C.

[0042] In addition, "at least one of A, B, or C" as described in the present disclosure may be understood to include A, or B, or C, or any combination of A, B, and C.

[0043] Furthermore, "A / B" as described in the present disclosure may be understood as "A and / or B," which may include A, or B, or both A and B.

[0044] Furthermore, "A, B" as described in the present disclosure may be understood as "A and / or B," which may include A, or B, or both A and B.

[0045] Furthermore, "A and B" as described in the present disclosure may be understood as "A and / or B," which may include A, or B, or both A and B.

[0046] Furthermore, “if condition A and condition B are satisfied,” as described in the present disclosure, may not be limited to a case where both condition A and condition B are satisfied, but may be understood to include a case where either condition A or condition B is individually satisfied, both condition A and condition B are satisfied, or one or more additional conditions are satisfied in combination.

[0047] Furthermore, throughout this disclosure, ordinal terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc., (and similar qualifiers) are used merely to distinguish between different instances, occurrences, configurations, messages, stages, or aspects of elements, operations, or information as described herein. Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the use of such ordinal terms does not itself require that the elements, operations, or information distinguished by these terms be structurally different, numerically distinct, or substantively dissimilar. For example, a "first signal" and a "second signal" may refer to instances of the same signal transmitted at different times or containing the same core information despite minor variations, or they may refer to signals with different content or characteristics, depending on the specific context. Similarly, a "first value" and a "second value" may represent the same magnitude but measured or applied in different circumstances, or they may represent different magnitudes. The interpretation should be guided by the specific technical context, function, and relationship described in the relevant portion of the specification and claims.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms “first ~”, “second ~”, etc., as described in the present disclosure with respect to various elements (e.g., information, objects, operation, sequences, or the like), should not limit those elements. These terms may only be intended to distinguish one element from another, and may not be intended to indicate a specific order. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element.

[0049] Furthermore, even if “first ~” and “second ~” are described in the present disclosure, it may be understood that element(s) referred to by “first ~” and “second ~” may be the same or different. For example, in case of element(s) being information, first information and second information may both be same information and, in some cases, are separate and different information.

[0050] In addition, the terms “if ~” and “in case that ~” as used in the disclosure or claims may be interpreted to include the meanings of “when (or upon) ~,” “in response to ~,” “based on ~,” or “according to ~,” and may be used interchangeably with these expressions. In addition, expressions other than those exemplified herein may also be used, as long as they have substantially the same meaning and do not impair the technical features of the present disclosure.

[0051] For example, the physical layer signaling may be referred to as Layer 1 (L1) signaling and may include downlink control information (DCI). In addition, the higher layer signaling may include a medium access control (MAC) control message, a radio resource control (RRC) signaling message, a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling message, or an application layer message. The RRC signaling message may be referred to as L3 (layer 3) signaling. It should be noted, however, that the higher layer signaling is not limited to the aforementioned examples.

[0052] In addition, the term "not perform" as used in the present disclosure or claims may, in context, be understood to mean that the corresponding step is omitted or skipped. Such a term may be replaced with other terms having the same or substantially equivalent meaning.

[0053] In addition, "transmitting a message including A and B" as described in the present disclosure, may be understood as encompassing both (i) transmitting A and B in a single message, and (ii) transmitting A and B separately via multiple messages (e.g., transmitting a first message including A and a second message including B). This interpretation may also apply to messages that include two or more items (e.g., A, B, C), transmitted either together or separately.

[0054] In addition, "transmitting a message including A and transmitting a message including B" may also be interpreted as transmitting a message including A and B in a single message.

[0055] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described below, terms or components included in the disclosure may be expressed in singular or plural form depending on the specific embodiments presented. However, such singular or plural expressions are selected appropriately for convenience of description, and the present disclosure is not limited to a singular or plural number of components. A component expressed in the plural form may be implemented as a single component, and a component expressed in the singular form may be implemented as multiple components.

[0056] The drawings or flowcharts described below illustrate exemplary methods that may be implemented according to the principles of the present disclosure, and various modifications may be made to the methods illustrated in the flowcharts of the present disclosure. For example, although illustrated as a series of steps, various steps in each drawing or flowchart may overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or be repeated. In other examples, any step may be omitted or replaced with another step.

[0057] The methods and apparatuses proposed in the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to each embodiment individually, but may also be applied in combination of all or some of the embodiments proposed in the disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be modified and applied without significantly departing from the scope of the present disclosure, as would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0058] In this case, even if certain wordings are described differently across embodiments, they may be used interchangeably or in substitution or in combination if their underlying concepts are equivalent. For example, for the same or equivalent concept, even if one embodiment uses the expression "A" and another embodiment uses the expression "B", such expressions may be understood interchangeably, in substitution, or in combination.

[0059] The terms used in the following description to refer to access nodes, network entities, messages, interfaces between network entities, various types of identification information, and the like, are provided merely for the convenience of explanation by way of example. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms having equivalent technical meanings may also be used. Such terms may also be interchangeable with terms defined in any 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) technical specifications (TS) where appropriate.

[0060] Hereinafter, a base station is an entity that allocates resources to terminals, and may be at least one of a gNode B, an eNode B, a Node B, a base station (BS), a wireless access unit, a BS controller, or a node on a network.

[0061] Furthermore, the base station of the present disclosure may include a split architecture comprising a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). In this structure, the CU is configured to process the higher layers of the control and user planes, while the DU is configured to process lower-layer radio resource functions. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be equally applicable to 5G base station architectures in which such CU and DU functional splits are implemented.

[0062] A terminal may include a UE, a mobile station (MS), a cellular phone, a smartphone, a computer, or a multimedia system capable of performing communication functions.

[0063] In the disclosure, a downlink (DL) refers to a radio link through which a BS transmits a signal to a UE, and an uplink (UL) refers to a radio link through which a UE transmits a signal to a BS.

[0064] Furthermore, hereinafter, 5th generation (5G) mobile communication technologies (e.g., 5G new radio (NR)), 6th generation (6G) mobile communication technologies may be described by way of example, but the embodiments of the present disclosure may also be applied to other communication systems having similar technical backgrounds or channel types. For example, newly evolved mobile communication systems developed after 5G and 6G may be included. Furthermore, based on determinations by those skilled in the art, the embodiments of the present disclosure may also be applied to other communication systems (e.g., Wi-Fi systems) through some modifications without significantly departing from the scope of the present disclosure

[0065] In the following description, the terms physical channel and signal may be used interchangeably with data or control signal. For example, the term physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) refers to a physical channel through which data is transmitted, but the term PDSCH may also be used to refer to the data itself. That is, in the present disclosure, the expression "transmit a physical channel" may be interpreted as being equivalent to the expression "transmit data or a signal via a physical channel."

[0066] Hereinafter, in the context of the present disclosure, higher layer signaling may refer to signaling corresponding to at least one or any combination of the following: master information block (MIB), system information block (SIB) or SIB M (M = 1, 2, ...), radio resource control (RRC), or medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling message, or an application layer message. The RRC signaling message may be referred to as L3 (layer 3) signaling.

[0067] In addition, L1 signaling may refer to signaling corresponding to at least one or any combination of signaling techniques using the at least one or any combination of the following physical layer channels or signaling: physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), downlink control information (DCI), user equipment (UE)-specific DCI, group-common DCI, common DCI, scheduling DCI (e.g., DCI used for scheduling downlink or uplink data), non-scheduling DCI (e.g., DCI not used for scheduling downlink or uplink data) physical uplink control channel (PUCCH), or uplink control information (UCI). The L1 signaling message may be referred to as a physical layer signaling.

[0068] Hereinafter, the expression that information is configured by the BS, as used in the present disclosure or claims, may, in context, be understood to mean that the terminal receives the corresponding information from the BS via a physical layer signaling or a higher layer signaling. Such an expression may be replaced with other terms having the same or substantially equivalent meaning.

[0069] Hereinafter, the operational principle of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] The following specification particularly describes theinventionand the manner in which it is to be performed:

[0071] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. Also, the various embodiments described herein are not necessarily mutuallyexclusive, as some embodiments can be combined with a plurality of other embodiments to form new embodiments. The term “or” as used herein, refers to a non-exclusive or, unless otherwise indicated. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein can be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples are not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0072] As is existing in the field, embodiments are described and illustrated in terms of blocks that carry out a described function or functions.　These blocks, which referred to herein as managers, units, modules, hardware components or the like, are physically implemented by analog and / or digital circuits such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuits, and the like, and optionally be driven by firmware and software. The circuits, for example, be embodied in a plurality of semiconductor chips, or on substrate supports such as printed circuit boards, and the like.　The circuits constituting a block be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., a plurality of programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry), or by a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions of the block and a processor to perform other functions of the block.Eachblock of the embodiments be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks without departing from the scope of the proposed method.　Likewise, the blocks of the embodiments be physically combined into more complex blockswithoutdeparting from the scope of the proposed method.

[0073] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it is understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the proposed method is construed to extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings. Although the terms first, second, etc. used herein to describe various elements, these elements are not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally used to distinguish one element from another.

[0074] In the prior art, the current RAN control plane is fundamentally monolithic and overly complicated, posing significant challenges as the device ecosystem continues to grow and diversify. The existing RAN control plane is a single, large entity with tightly coupled components. This design makes it difficult to manage, modify, or extend, leading to increased development and testing efforts. The lack of modularity results in high interdependencies making it challenging to add new features or services without affecting the entire system. To address these challenges, there is an urgent need to develop a simplified, scalable, and modular control plane. Such a design would allow for easier management, faster feature addition, and more efficient handling of multiple devices and services.

[0075] The proposed solution provides a method and system for designing a RAN control plane in a communication system. A radio connection is established for a UE through the EPS. Once the radio connection is established, the UE can request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS. Different EPS instances are configured for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, where the different EPS instances include operating the EPS in a static mode and a scalable mode. In the static mode, the EPS is operated by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages without modifying a functionality of the EPS. In the scalable mode, the EPS is operated by enabling services through separate messages. Hence, the proposed solution enables the EPS to support different services or features for different device / UE types in a modular manner.

[0076] Protocol stacks (for example, 5G radio access network (RAN) protocol stack)) refer to a set of communication protocols used to implement computer networking services. The protocol stack is organized into layers, with each layer offering different or various functionalities and interacting with neighboring layers to facilitate smooth data transmission. Each layer within the protocol stack undertakes specific responsibilities, including data encapsulation, error detection, routing, data presentation, and the like. These layers collaborate to ensure that data is transmitted reliably and efficiently between the devices. The layered architecture of the protocol stack enables various devices and networks to communicate effectively. The 5G RAN protocol stack is designed to accommodate a wide spectrum of applications and services, ranging from high-speed data transfer for enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) to ultra-low latency for ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and extensive connectivity for massive machine-type communications (mMTC). It builds on the 4G long-term evolution (LTE) stack while incorporating new layers and enhancements to address the diverse needs of 5G use cases.

[0077] The 5G network ecosystem supports a wide selection of devices, ranging from simple wearables and IoT devices to complex smartphones and XR (Extended Reality) devices. Each device type has unique requirements, such as power efficiency, bandwidth, and latency. The current RAN protocol stack is not optimized for heterogeneous environments. Designed with a monolithic and complicated control plane, the protocol stack struggles to efficiently handle the diverse requirements of multiple device types. As the ecosystem grows, this complexity intensifies, thus leading to challenges in scalability, modularity, and service enablement. Currently, the 5G protocol stack can only handle few use-case, but in a complex way. With different device types, the protocol stack needs to be modified to meet the requirements. This may lead to a highly complex re-design of the protocol stack along with difficult implementations and deployments. Therefore, it is essential to redesign the protocol stack to handle complex to diverse devices in an efficient manner.

[0078] Hence, isdesirableto address the above mentioned problems and disadvantages or at least provide a useful alternative.

[0079] The principal object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method and system for designing a RAN control plane in a communication system.

[0080] Another object of the embodiments herein is to establish a radio connection for a user equipment (UE) through an essential protocol stack (EPS).

[0081] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to enable the UE to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS, upon establishment of the radio connection.

[0082] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to configure different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, where the different EPS instances include designing the EPS in a static mode and a scalable mode.

[0083] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to operate the EPS in the static mode by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages without modifying a functionality of the EPS.

[0084] Yet another object of the embodiments herein is to operate the EPS in the scalable mode by enabling services through separate messages.

[0085] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram that illustrates a schematic of a network apparatus (100) implemented to carry out the disclosed subject matter according to anembodimentas disclosed herein. The network apparatus (100) includes various hardware and software components that facilitate communication between user equipment and network infrastructure. Examples of the network apparatus (100) can include, but is not limited to Base Stations (such as macro cells, small cells, femtocells, Pico cells) for wireless communication, Antennas and RF Units (e.g., MIMO, beamforming) to enhance signal coverage and data throughput, Core Network Equipment (e.g., MMEs, S-GWs, P-GWs in 4G; AMFs, UPFs in 5G) for data routing, mobility, and session control, Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) for dynamic resource allocation and scalability, Edge Computing Nodes (e.g., MEC servers) for low-latency processing,　 Backhaul and Transport Equipment (e.g., fiber-optic links, microwave relays, Ethernet switches) to connect base stations to the core network, Network Management Systems (NMS) and Operation Support Systems (OSS) for network configuration, fault management, and optimization, Radio Network Controllers (RNCs) in 3G, Distributed Units (DUs), and Centralized Units (CUs) in 5G, Network Slicing Components for virtualized resource allocation, Security elements (e.g., Firewalls, IDS, AAA Servers) for secure communication.

[0086] In anembodiment, in Fig. 1, the network apparatus (100) includes a processor (102), a memory (104), an I / O interface (106), and a RAN controller (108) coupled to the processor (102) and the memory (104). The components are explained in further detail below.

[0087] The processor (102) communicates with the memory (104), the I / O interface (210), and the RAN controller (108). The processor (102) is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory (104) and to perform various processes. The processor (102) includes one or a plurality of processors, is a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU), an application processor (AP), or the like, a graphics-onlyprocessing unit such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a visual processing unit (VPU), and / or an Artificial Intelligence (AI) dedicated processor such as a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0088] The memory (104) includes storage locations to be addressable through the processor (102). The memory (104) stores the EPS message corresponding to the EPS and additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE. The memory (104) is not limited to a volatile memory and / or a non-volatile memory. Further, the memory (104) includes a plurality of computer-readable storage media. The memory (104) includes non-volatile storage elements. For example, non-volatile storage elements includes magnetic hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, flash memories, or forms of electrically programmable memories (EPROM) or electrically erasable and programmable (EEPROM) memories.

[0089] The I / O interface (106) transmits the information between the memory (104) and external peripheral devices. The peripheral devices are the input-output devices associated with the network apparatus (100). Further, the RAN controller (108) communicates with the I / O interface (106) and the memory (104). The RAN controller (108) is coupled to the memory (104) and the processor (102). This coupling allows for efficient data transfer and communication between the components, ensuring that the RAN controller (108) can operate the RAN control plane in a wireless communication system.

[0090] The RAN controller (108) is an innovative integrated circuit that is implemented in the network apparatus (100). In an embodiment, the structure of such innovative integrated circuit include a multi-core architecture that enables operation of the RAN control plane in the wireless communication system. Each core is optimized for specific tasks, such as establishing a radio connection for the UE, enabling the UE to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane, configuring different EPS instances, and the like. The innovative integrated circuit for the above-mentioned points is made of a combination of analog and digital components designed to enable operation of the RAN control plane in the wireless communication system. The analog components include a low-noise amplifier and a high-precision analog-to-digital converter to ensure accurate signal processing. The digital components consist of a microcontroller unit (MCU) and a digital signal processor (DSP) that work in tandem to enable operation of the RAN control plane in the wireless communication system

[0091] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) establishes a radio connection for the UE through the EPS. Examples of the UE can include, but are not limited to, Consumer Electronics (such as Mobile Phones and Smartphones), Tablets, Wearable Devices, Computing Devices (such as Laptops, Notebooks, Desktops, Workstations, etc.), IoT Devices, Automotive Systems (such as connected cars, Autonomous Vehicles, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication devices, etc.), Enterprise Devices such as robotics, Specialized Equipment (such as Medical Devices, Public Safety Devices, etc.), Media Devices (such as Gaming Consoles, Streaming Devices, etc.). The radio connection refers to a communication path or wireless link between the UE and the EPS. The radio connection is established and maintained using radio resources (for example, frequencies, time slots, etc.). The radio connection once established allows the UE to send and receive data to / from the RAN control plane.

[0092] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) enables the UE to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS, upon establishment of the radio connection. The RAN control plane refers to a set of protocols and signaling procedures used to manage and control the radio connection between the UE and the EPS including within the RAN control plane. For instance, the RAN control plane performs functions such as, radio resource control (RRC) signaling, radio admission control, mobility management support, security control, measurement and reporting control, and the like. For example, the additional services that the UE can request upon establishment of the radio connection include, but not limited to a RRC connection extension, a post quantum cryptography (PQC) security, a system information (SI)_extension, channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS) measurements, mobility services, bearer configurations, and the like.

[0093] The RRC connection extension refers to a mechanism to prolong or reconfigure an existing RRC connection between the UE and the RAN control plane. The RRC connection extension reduces signaling overhead by avoiding frequent reconnections. The PQC security refers to cryptographic techniques designed to secure the RAN control plane against quantum attacks. The SI_extension refers to additional or future-oriented broadcast messages that supplement standard SIBs sent by the RAN control plane. The SI-extension can be used to deliver information like network slicing support,non-terrestrial network support,broadcasting PQC capabilities, and the like. The CSI-RS measurements special downlink reference signals transmitted by the 5RAN control plane to help the UE assess channel quality. For instance, the CSI-RS measurements can include a channel quality indicator (CQI), a precoding matrix indicators (PMI), a rank indicator (RI), and the like. The mobility services refer to network functionalities that allow the UE to move across cells, tracking areas, or access networks without service interruptions. Further, the bearer configurations refer to a logical data path with specific quality of service (QoS) parameters between the UE and the RAN control plane. The bearer configurations are mapped to radio bearers and maintained through PDCP / RLC / MAC layers.

[0094] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) receives a request message from the UE upon establishment of the radio connection. The request message includes the request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS. The request message can be placed from at least one of a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE.

[0095] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) determines whether the UE is the limited capability UE or the enhanced capability UE upon receiving the request for the additional services. The RAN controller (108) evaluates the capabilities of the UE to determine whether it is a limited capability UE or an enhanced capability UE. For instance, the capabilities can include UE capability information, device model, 3GPP UE categories, and the like.

[0096] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) transmits data over the radio connection established through the EPS instances between the UE (limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE) and the RAN control plane. The limited capability UE has limited capabilities and supports basic connectivity features. The enhanced capability UE is equipped with advanced features such as carrier aggregation, higher-order MIMO, and enhanced throughput. The data is transmitted by maintaining consistent network behavior and supporting service continuity between the UE and the RAN control plane.

[0097] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) configures different EPS instances for different types of UEs upon receiving the request for the additional services. The different EPS instances include operating the EPS in a static mode and a scalable mode. The different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS. For instance, the different types of UEs include a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE. The limited capability UE (for example, IoT devices) may not even need more services as a current device connectivity of the UE is sufficient. The limited capability UE has limited storage, computation abilities, and radio capabilities. The enhanced capability UE (for example, smartphones) may need multiple other services. Hence, the EPS needs to be extended to support these type of UEs. The enhanced capability UE has advanced storage, computation abilities, radio capabilities, and can perform multiple tasks. Smartphones are enhanced capability UEs that can perform multiple complex tasks such as video streaming, gaming, and the like.

[0098] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) is operated in the static mode for the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE. The EPS operates in the static mode by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages. The fixed basic services include discovery of the RAN control plane, creating and maintaining the radio connection, and enabling minimal data transfer. Discovery of the RAN control plane enables the UE to identify and connect to the appropriate control infrastructure within the RAN. Minimal data transfer is essential for limited capability UEs or applications that require minimum connectivity where maintaining efficiency and conserving power are key operational goals.

[0099] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) generates additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE. The additional service messages are generated when the network apparatus (100) is in the static mode. The additional service messages can include, but not limited to RRC reconfiguration messages, PQC security command messages, SI-extension messages, and measurement messages (CSI-RS configuration, measurement reports). Here, the EPS remains static and does not change with the addition of new functionality. The new functionalities are added as separate elementswith new messages. Only basic control of user access and connection setup remains with EPS, and other functionalities have their own capabilities and depend less on EPS.

[0100] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) adds the additional service messages as separate messages along with an EPS message corresponding to the EPS. For instance, the EPS message includes a SIB1 / MIB message, a RRC setup message, and a security command message when the EPS is in the static mode. These messages are fixed within the EPS message when the EPS is operating in the static mode.

[0101] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) generates a main message by combining the EPS message and the additional service messages. Here, the additional service messages are each added along with the EPS message in the main message. This prevents modification in a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS within the RAN control plane.

[0102] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) is operated in the scalable mode for the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE. In the scalable mode, the EPS changes with the extension of new functionalities. To facilitate modularity, additional functionalities can be added through distinct messages and by enabling functionality-based containers within the current messages. The management of core functionalities will be handled by EPS, and vertical services must rely on EPS to deliver system information and measurement-related services.

[0103] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) generates additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE. These additional service messages are generated when the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode. For instance, the additional service messages can include mobility messages, measurement messages, and the like.

[0104] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) determines whether to add the additional service messages within the EPS message corresponding to the EPS or as separate messages. For example, measurement messages including new types of measurements like CSI-RS, different measurement configurations can be added within the EPS message. This will have minimal impact on the existing EPS message since its functionality will not get modified. On the other hand, mobility messages can be introduced or added as separate messages and not along with the EPS message.

[0105] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) generates the main message by adding the additional service messages within the EPS message. The main message is added without modifying the EPS message. For example, the measurement messages can be added within the EPS message without impacting its functionality. Unlike in the static mode, the scalable mode operation of the EPS allows some services to be added within the EPS message. Thus, operation of the EPS within the scalable mode is more flexible when compared to operation in the static mode.

[0106] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) generates the main message by adding the additional service messages as separate messages along with the main EPS message. Here, the additional service messages are added in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS within the RAN control plane. This is similar to generation of the main message in the static mode. The scalable mode of the supports a dynamic adjustment of the additional services based on service requirements associated with the UE.

[0107] In an embodiment, the RAN controller (108) performs a transmission of data between the UE and the RAN control plane upon operating the network apparatus (100) in the static mode or the scalable mode. In the static mode, the RAN controller (108) operates with a fixed configuration, suitable for environments with predictable traffic loads and minimal variation in user demand. In the scalable mode, the RAN controller (108) dynamically adjusts its resources and configurations based on real-time traffic conditions, user density, or service requirements. Regardless of the mode, the RAN controller (108) ensures seamless and reliable data transmission between the UE and the RAN control plane.

[0108] Figs. 2A-B are block diagrams that illustrate an architecture of the EPS (200) according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. Fig. 2A illustrates a protocol stack layer architecture of the EPS (200). As shown, the EPS (200) includes a non-access stratum (NAS) (200A), a RRC (200B), a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) (200C), a radio link control (RLC) (200D), a medium access control (MAC) (200E), and a physical layer (PHY) (200F). The NAS (200A) handles mobility management, session management, authentication, protocol data unit (PDU) sessions, and EPS bearers. The RRC (200B) manages radio bearers, mobility, measurement reporting, security, connection states (for example, idle, connected, etc.). The RRC (200B) coordinates how and when the UE is in communication with the RAN control plane. The PDCP (200C) is a security and optimization layer that ensures that the data communicated via the radio connection is compact, secure, and correctly ordered. The RLC (200D) breaks down the data transmitted via the radio connection into data packets having suitable sizes to prevent re-transmissions and data loss. The MAC (200E) determines a time and order in which the data packets are transmitted via the radio connection. The PHY (200F) is the layer that converts the data into radio signals when transmitted via the radio connection.

[0109] The EPS (200) sets up a basic radio connection with the RAN control plane. The UE can use this radio connection to ask for other services provided by the RAN control plane. In some situations, minimal data can also be transmitted via this radio link. The EPS (200) can be characterized as a simplified version of the existing RRC Specification. For example, features such as mobility can be eliminated since not all device types require it. Additionally, other features like RRC reconfiguration, primarily utilized to activate various functionalities, can also be omitted. Consequently, features can be minimized to accommodate only essential messages. For instance, connection management may facilitate RRC setup to establish a signalling radio bearer (SRB) or a single low-rate data radio bearer (DRB).

[0110] Fig. 2B illustrates a functionality architecture of the EPS (200). As shown, the EPS (200) includes a system information block (202), a connection management block (204), a measurement block (206), and a security block (208). The system information block (202) enables the UE to discover the RAN control plane. The EPS (200) provides basic radio functionality that enables connectivity with the RAN control plane. System information is needed to get the network related information. The connection management block (204) handles the connection request of the UE while establishing the radio connection with the RAN control plane. The connection management block (204) receives and evaluates the request to ensure that the necessary conditions for establishing the radio connection are met. This includes verifying resource availability, prioritizing requests based on service type, UE category (limited capability vs. enhanced capability), and coordinating with other functional components to allocate the required radio resources. Once validated, the connection management block (204) facilitates the setup of the radio connection, enabling the UE to communicate with the RAN control plane.

[0111] The measurement block (206) performs basis measurements to perform cell selection / reselection. When the UE powers on or loses connection, the measurement block (206) identifies the most suitable cell to connect to. The measurement block (206) evaluates key radio parameters such as signal strength (RSRP), signal quality (RSRQ), signal-to-interference noise ratio (SINR), and the like. These measurements are taken across multiple neighboring cells to determine which one offers the best radio conditions. The security block (208) is needed if small data transmission is needed or performed. The security block (208) activates appropriate encryption and integrity protection mechanisms before any data is transmitted over the radio connection.

[0112] Figs. 3A-B are block diagrams that illustrate architecture differences between limited capability UEs and enhanced capability UEs according an embodiment as disclosed herein. Fig. 3A illustrates the architecture for limited capability UEs and Fig. 3B illustrates the architecture for enhanced capability UEs. As shown, Fig. 3A includes the system information block (202), the connection management block (204), the measurement block (206), and the security block (208). Fig. 3B includes the system information block (202), the connection management block (204), the measurement block (206), the security block (208), and an additional services block (210). The additional services block (210) includes the messages generated corresponding to additional services requested by the user, without which the EPS (200) will not be able to function. The additional services block (210) allows the EPS (200) to further extend its services and functionalities.

[0113] Figs. 4A-B are block diagrams that illustrate different architectures of the RAN control plane when the EPS (200) is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In Fig. 4A, the RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) along with additional function blocks corresponding to the additional services requested by the user. Here, the additional function blocks include RRC connection extension, PQC security, SI_extension, measurement CSI-RS, and mobility services. The RAN control plane in Fig. 4B also includes the EPS (200) along with the additional function blocks corresponding to the additional services requested by the user. Here, the measurement CSI-RS is part of the mobility services.

[0114] The essential functions utilized by various services and device types are included in EPS (200). The EPS (200) is kept unchanged and remains static. There are no modifications to message definitions and no message extensions are introduced with new releases. To enhance the RAN control plane, new functions are incorporated / added instead of altering the EPS (200). For example, to introduce DRB configuration, an RRC connection extension is employed. In another example, to broaden measurement capabilities, a separate component is developed without affecting the fundamental measurements. The static nature of the EPS (200) simplifies the definition of the RAN control plane for limited capability UEs. The addition of extensions in distinct components facilitates easy plug-and-play enhancements on the device / UE side. Below is an example of the main message generated when the EPS (200) is in the static mode and one or more additional services (RRC connection_ext, PQC security, SI_ext, and measurement) are requested:

[0115] [Rectified under Rule 91, 14.10.2025][Main Message]- EPS messages-- SIB1 / MIB-- RRC Setup-- Security Command- RRC Connection_Ext-- RRC Reconfiguration- PQC Security-- PQC SEcurity Command- SI_ext-- SIB 2-21- Measurement-- CSI-RS_Config-- Measurement Report

[0116] Fig. 5 is a block diagram that illustrates an architecture of the RAN control plane when the EPS (200) is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown, the RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) along with additional function blocks corresponding to the additional services requested by the user. Here, the additional function blocks include mobility. When the additional features are incorporated into the network apparatus (100), the EPS (200) may undergo changes, but in a restricted manner. The introduction of additional features allows for the addition of new messages specific to that functionality, independent of previous messages. For instance, with the introduction of new measurement types such as CSI-RS, distinct measurement configurations can be implemented. This approach will minimally affect the existing messages. Likewise, mobility can be implemented as an independent component instead of relying on RRCReconfig for mobility.

[0117] The EPS (200) experiences changes, but these are limited. The messages can be easily expanded, facilitating development. A separate message for each additional service / functionality will result in a reduced energy footprint, as the network apparatus (100) will not need to examine all fields in a large message before processing it. This approach eliminates redundancies across the different components within the RAN control plane. Below is an example of the main message generated when the EPS (200) is in the scalable mode and one or more additional services (RRC connection_ext, PQC security, SI_ext, measurement, and mobility) are requested. Here, the RRC connection_ext, PQC security, SI_ext, measurement are added within the EPS messages without modifying a functionality of the EPS (200). The mobility additional service is added as a separate message along with the EPS messages to form the main messages.

[0118] [Rectified under Rule 91, 14.10.2025][Main Messages]- EPS messages-- SI +--- SIB1 / MIB--- SIB 2-20-- RRC Connection +--- SRB config (RRC setup)--- DRB config-- Security--- Security command--- PQC security command-- Measurement--- CSI-RS_Config--- Measurement Report- Mobility-- HO decision-- HO config

[0119] Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram that illustrates an adoption of a mobility service when the EPS (200) is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown in the sequence diagram, a UE (602), a distributed unit 1 (DU1) (604), a DU2 (606), and the RAN control plane are in communication with each other. The RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) and the additional services block (210), which includes mobility service (210A), CSI-RS measurements (210B), and bearer configurations (210C). Each step is explained in further detail below.

[0120] At step 1, the mobility service (210A) configures measurements and shared the configured measurements to the CSI-RS measurements (210B). At step 2, the CSI-RS measurements (210B) transmits a CSIRS_MeasConfig [SRBx] to the UE (602). At step 3, the UE (602) transmits a CSIRS_MeasReport [SRBx] to the CSI-RS measurements (210B). At step 4, the CSI-RS measurements (210B) transmits a measurement report to the mobility service (210A). The mobility service (210A) then performs a handover decision once the measurement report is received. At step 5, the DRB configuration occurs between the mobility service (210A) and the bearer configurations (210C). At step 6, a security key update occurs between the EPS (200) and the mobility service (210A). At step 7, the UE (602) receives a handover config [SRBx] from the mobility service (210A). At step 8, the UE (602) transmits a handover complete [SRBx] to the mobility service.

[0121] Currently, the CSI-RS measurements (210B) are included as an independent element. They can also be combined with the mobility service (210A), provided that other services do not rely on them. The bearer configurations (210C) continue to function as a distinct service since it is required by various components. The responsibilities of the mobility service (210A) include making decisions, serving as the anchor for mobility, coordinating with the bearer configurations (210C), security, and measurements, etc., and transmitting the configuration to the UE (602).

[0122] Fig. 7 is a sequence diagram that illustrates an adoption of a MDT service when the EPS (200) is operated in the static mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown in the sequence diagram, the UE (602), the DU1 (604), the DU2 (606), and the RAN control plane are in communication with each other. The RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) and the additional services block (210), which includes the MDT (210D). Each step is explained in further detail below.

[0123] At step 1, the RRC Setup [SRB1] occurs between the UE (602) and the EPS (200). At step 2, the MDT (210D) transmits a LoggedMeasurementConfig [SRBx] to the UE (602). At step 3, the RRC Reestablishment [SRB1] occurs between the UE (602) and the EPS (200). At step 4, a Get UE status is performed between the EPS (200) and the MDT (210D). At step 5, a Get measurement logs [SRBx] is performed between the UE (602) and the MDT (210D).

[0124] Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram that illustrates the adoption of the mobility service when the EPS (200) is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown in the sequence diagram, the UE (602), the DU1 (604), the DU2 (606), and the RAN control plane are in communication with each other. The RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) and the additional services block (210), which includes the mobility service (210A). Each step is explained in further detail below.

[0125] At step 1, the mobility service (210A) places a 'measurement required' request to the EPS (200). At step 2, the EPS (200) transmits a CSIRS_MeasConfig [SRB1] to the UE (602). At step 3, the UE (602) transmits a CSIRS_MeasReport [SRB1] to the EPS (200). At step 4, the EPS (200) transmits a Measurement report [transfer] to the mobility service (210A). The mobility service (210A) then performs a handover decision. At step 5, a Get SRB / DRB Config is performed between the EPS (200) and the mobility service (210A). At step 6, a Get Security Keys is performed between the EPS (200) and the mobility service (210A). At step 7, the mobility service (210A) transmits a handover config to the EPS (200). At step 8, the EPS (200) transmits a Handover config [SRB1] to the UE (602). At step 9, the UE (602) transmits a Handover complete [SRB1] to the EPS (200) and the mobility service (210A).

[0126] The EPS (200) is capable of transmitting information to the UE (602) via SRB1. The mobility service (210A) can interact directly with the UE (602) using a separate bearer designated for SRBx. This service can consolidate several messages for transmission to the UE (602). Receiving messages in a single bundle simplifies synchronization for the UE (602). Additionally, the mobility service (210A) can initiate the bearer entity and security protocols to dispatch messages, which may introduce certain synchronization challenges. SSB measurements are essential for connectivity in idle mode, whereas CSI-RS is set up for mobility in connected mode.

[0127] Fig. 9 is a sequence diagram that illustrates the adoption of the MDT service when the EPS (200) is operated in the scalable mode according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. As shown, the sequence diagram includes the UE (602), the DU1 (604), the DU2 (606), and the RAN control plane in communication with each other. The RAN control plane includes the EPS (200) (including a Bearer config (200A)), a UE context (902), and the additional services block (210). The additional services block (210) includes a MDT + TCE (210E). Each step is explained in further detail below.

[0128] At step 1, the UE (602) establishes a RRC Setup [SRB1] with the EPS (200). At step 2, the MDT + TCE (210E) transmits a LoggedMeasurementConfig [SRB1] to the UE (602). At step 3, a RRC Reestablishment [SRB1] occurs between the EPS (200) and the UE (602). At step 4, a Get UE status is performed between the UE context (902) and the MDT + TCE (210E). At step 5, measurement logs are obtained between the UE (602) and the UE context (902). For instance, the measurement logs include a radio link failure (RLF) report, mobility history, location information, and the like.

[0129] Figs. 10A-B are flow diagrams that illustrates a method for designing the RAN control plane in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. The method includes steps (1002-1032). Each step is explained in further detail below.

[0130] At step (1002), the network apparatus (100) establishes a radio connection for the UE (602) through the EPS (200). The radio connection refers to a communication path or wireless link between the UE (602) and the EPS (200). The radio connection is established and maintained using radio resources (for example, frequencies, time slots, etc.). The radio connection once established allows the UE (602) to send and receive data to / from the RAN control plane.

[0131] At step (1004), the network apparatus (100) enables the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection. The RAN control plane refers to a set of protocols and signaling procedures used to manage and control the radio connection between the UE (602) and the EPS (200) including within the RAN control plane. For instance, the RAN control plane performs functions such as, RR) signaling, radio admission control, mobility management support, security control, measurement and reporting control, and the like. For example, the additional services that the UE (602) can request upon establishment of the radio connection include, but not limited to a RRC connection extension, a PQC security, a SI_extension, CSI-RS measurements, mobility services, bearer configurations, and the like.

[0132] At step (1006), the network apparatus (100) receives a request message from the UE (602) upon establishment of the radio connection. The request message includes the request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200). The request message can be placed from at least one of a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE.

[0133] At step (1008), the network apparatus (100) determines whether the UE (602) is the limited capability UE or the enhanced capability UE upon receiving the request for the additional services. The RAN controller (108) evaluates the capabilities of the UE (602) to determine whether it is a limited capability UE or an enhanced capability UE. For instance, the capabilities can include capability information associated with the UE (602), device model, 3GPP UE categories, and the like.

[0134] At step (1010), the network apparatus (100) transmits data over the radio connection established through the EPS instances between the UE (602) (limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE) and the RAN control plane. The limited capability UE has limited capabilities and supports basic connectivity features. The enhanced capability UE is equipped with advanced features such as carrier aggregation, higher-order MIMO, and enhanced throughput. The data is transmitted by maintaining consistent network behavior and supporting service continuity between the UE (602) and the RAN control plane.

[0135] At step (1012), the network apparatus (100) configures different EPS instances for different types of UEs upon receiving the request for the additional services. The different EPS instances include operating the EPS (200) in a static mode and a scalable mode. The different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200). For instance, the different types of UEs include a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE. The limited capability UE (for example, IoT devices) may not even need more services as a current device connectivity of the UE (602) is sufficient. The limited capability UE has limited storage, computation abilities, and radio capabilities. The enhanced capability UE (for example, smartphones) may need multiple other services. Hence, the EPS (200) needs to be extended to support these type of UEs. The enhanced capability UE has advanced storage, computation abilities, radio capabilities, and can perform multiple tasks. Smartphones are enhanced capability UEs that can perform multiple complex tasks such as video streaming, gaming, and the like.

[0136] At step (1014), the network apparatus (100) operates the EPS (200) in the static mode for the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE. The EPS (200) operates in the static mode by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages. The fixed basic services include discovery of the RAN control plane, creating and maintaining the radio connection, and enabling minimal data transfer. Discovery of the RAN control plane enables the UE (602) to identify and connect to the appropriate control infrastructure within the RAN control plane. Minimal data transfer is essential for limited capability UEs or applications that require less connectivity where maintaining efficiency and conserving power are key operational goals.

[0137] At step (1016), the network apparatus (100) generates additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602). The additional service messages are generated when the network apparatus (100) is in the static mode. The additional service messages can include, but not limited to RRC reconfiguration messages, PQC security command messages, SI-extension messages, and measurement messages (CSI-RS configuration, measurement reports). Here, the EPS (200) remains static and does not change with the addition of new functionality. The new functionalities are added as separate elementswith new messages. Only basic control of user access and connection setup remains with the EPS (200), and other functionalities have their own capabilities and depend less on the EPS (200).

[0138] At step (1018), the network apparatus (100) adds the additional service messages as separate messages along with an EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200). For instance, the EPS message includes a SIB1 / MIB message, a RRC setup message, and a security command message when the EPS (200) is in the static mode. These messages are fixed within the EPS message when the EPS (200) is operating in the static mode.

[0139] At step (1020), the network apparatus (100) generates a main message by combining the EPS message and the additional service messages. Here, the additional service messages are each added along with the EPS message in the main message. This prevents modification in a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane.

[0140] At step (1022), the network apparatus (100) operates the EPS (200) in the scalable mode for the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE. In the scalable mode, the EPS (200) changes with the extension of new functionalities. To facilitate modularity, additional functionalities can be added through distinct messages and by enabling functionality-based containers within the current messages. The management of core functionalities will be handled by the EPS (200), and vertical services must rely on the EPS (200) to deliver system information and measurement-related services.

[0141] At step (1024), the network apparatus (100) generates additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602). These additional service messages are generated when the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode. For instance, the additional service messages can include mobility messages, measurement messages, and the like.

[0142] At step (1026), the network apparatus (100) determines whether to add the additional service messages within the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) or as separate messages. For example, measurement messages including new types of measurements like CSI-RS, different measurement configurations can be added within the EPS message. This will have minimal impact on the existing EPS message since its functionality will not get modified. On the other hand, mobility messages can be introduced or added as separate messages and not along with the EPS message.

[0143] At step (1028), the network apparatus (100) generates the main message by adding the additional service messages within the EPS message. The main message is added without modifying the EPS message. For example, the measurement messages can be added within the EPS message without impacting its functionality. Unlike in the static mode, the scalable mode operation of the EPS (200) allows some services to be added within the EPS message. Thus, operation of the EPS (200) within the scalable mode is more flexible when compared to operation in the static mode.

[0144] At step (1030), the network apparatus (100) generates the main message by adding the additional service messages as separate messages along with the main EPS message. Here, the additional service messages are added in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane. This is similar to generation of the main message in the static mode. The scalable mode of the supports a dynamic adjustment of the additional services based on service requirements associated with the UE (602).

[0145] At step (1032), the network apparatus (100) performs a transmission of data between the UE (602) and the RAN control plane upon operating the network apparatus (100) in the static mode or the scalable mode. In the static mode, the RAN control plane operates with a fixed configuration, suitable for environments with predictable traffic loads and minimal variation in user demand. In the scalable mode, the RAN control plane dynamically adjusts its resources and configurations based on real-time traffic conditions, user density, or service requirements. Regardless of the mode, the EPS (200) ensures seamless and reliable data transmission between the UE (602) and the RAN control plane.

[0146] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a terminal or user equipment (UE) 1100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0147] The terminal is an electronic device capable of wireless communication, may include a User Equipment (UE), a portable phone, a smartphone, a tablet, an Internet of things (IoT) device, etc., having various form factors, and may perform wireless communication with a base station (BS) through a wireless channel.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 11, the UE 1100 may include at least one transceiver (hereinafter, referred to as simply “transceiver”) 1101, at least one processor (hereinafter, referred to as simply “processor”) 1102, and at least one memory (hereinafter, referred to as simply “memory”) 1103. According to at least one or a combination of methods corresponding to the embodiments described in the present disclosure, the transceiver 1101, the processor 1102, and the memory 1103 of the UE 1100 may operate. However, components of the UE 1100 are not limited to the exemplary components illustrated in FIG. 11. In another embodiment, the UE 1100 may further include additional components in addition to the above-mentioned components, or some components may be omitted. Further, in some embodiments, any combination of the transceiver 1101, the processor 1102, or the memory 1103 may be integrated in the form of one component.

[0149] The transceiver 1101 may be a communication circuit or communication circuitry that enables the UE 1100 to perform wireless communication with a node or an entity of a network. For example, the transceiver 1101 may enable the UE 1100 to transmit or receive a signal to or from a BS through cellular communication, or to transmit or receive a signal to or from another UE through cellular communication. For example, the transceiver 1101 may support at least one of various cellular communication technologies including 3rd generation (3G), 4th generation (4G), long term evolution (LTE), 5th generation (5G) NR, 6th generation (6G), and various cellular wireless communication technologies supported by the transceiver (1101) may include all subsequent generations of evolved wireless communications.

[0150] According to an embodiment, the UE 1100 may include a plurality of transceivers. For example, in the case of supporting evolved-universal terrestrial radio access-new radio (E-UTRA-NR) sual connectivity (EN-DC), the UE 1100 may include a first transceiver supporting the 4G LTE wireless communication and a second transceiver supporting the 5G NR wireless communication. According to another embodiment, in the case of supporting NR-dual connectivity (NR-DC), the UE 1100 may include a plurality of transceivers supporting the 5G NR wireless communication. According to still another embodiment, in the case of supporting near field wireless communication, the UE 1100 may separately include a transceiver supporting at least one standard in the group of wireless communication protocol standards as defined in the protocol standards for Bluetooth®, wireless local area network (WLAN) network (including institute of electrical and electronics engineers (IEEE) 802.11-2016 standard or its amendments, e.g., 802.11ah, 802.11ad, 802.11ay, 802.11ax, 802.11az, 802.11ba, and 802.11be, without being limited thereto).

[0151] According to an embodiment, the transceiver 1101 may include various circuit structures used to transmit or receive signals to or from a BS through a wireless channel. The signals may include control information and data. For example, the transceiver 1101 may include a radio frequency (RF) transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of a transmitted signal and an RF receiver for low-noise-amplifying a received signal and down-converting the frequency thereof. The transceiver 1101 may output a signal received through a wireless channel to the processor 1102 and may transmit, through a wireless channel, a signal output from the processor 1102.

[0152] The processor 1102 may control general operations of the UE 1100 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The processor 1102 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuit (or circuitry) (IC) chips and may execute various data processings. The processor 1102 may include at least one electric circuit, and may execute instructions (or a program, codes, data, etc.) stored in the memory 1103, individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. Further, the processor 1102 may include a single-core processor or multi-core processor, and may include a processor assembly including a plurality of processing circuits (circuitry) according to a specific implementation scheme.

[0153] The processor 1102 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the transceiver 1101 to control the transceiver 1101.

[0154] The processor 1102 may include at least one processor (or processing circuitry), and the at least one processor may perform the following operations individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. For example, the processor 1102 may include a communication processor (CP) configured to control communication operations and an application processor (AP) configured to control execution of an upper layer (for example, an application layer) . In a specific embodiment, at least a part of the processor 1102 may be included in one chip and the other part of the processor 1102 may be included in another chip. Otherwise, at least one processor may be included in another component, for example, the transceiver 1101 or the memory 1103.

[0155] The processor 1102 may perform or control or cause an operation of the UE 1100 for executing at least one or a combination of methods according to embodiments of the disclosure. For example, the processor 1102 may control operations of the UE 1100 for processing a downlink signal received from a BS or generating and transmitting an uplink signal to a BS. To this end, the processor 1102 may execute a computer program, codes, or instructions stored in the memory 1103, so as to control other components of the UE 1100 to enable execution of various operations.

[0156] The memory 1103 corresponds to a hardware storage device capable of temporarily or permanently storing information and may include one or more storage media. For example, the memory 1103 may include a memory assembly including one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include permanent memory, such as a hard drive, flash memory, or read-only memory (ROM), semipermanent memory, such as random access memory (RAM), cache memory, or a combination thereof.

[0157] The memory 1103 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the processor 1102 and may be accessed by the processor 1102.

[0158] The memory 1103 may store a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1102. According to an embodiment, a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1102 may be either stored in a single memory device or separated and distributedly stored in two or more memory devices. By executing the instructions stored in the memory 1103, the processor 1102 may perform various functions according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0159] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, operations of the UE 1100 may be caused to be performed based on execution of instructions (or a computer program or codes) stored in the memory 1103 by at least one processor (or processing circuitry) configured to execute the same individually, collectively, or in any combination thereof, based on processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions, and / or based on components of processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions.

[0160] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a base station (BS) 1200 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, the base station of FIG. 12 may correspond to the base station of FIG. 1.

[0161] The BS 1200 may perform wireless communication with at least one user equipment (UE) located within the area of the BS 1200 through a wireless channel.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 12, the BS 1200 may include at least one transceiver (hereinafter, referred to as simply “transceiver”) 1201, at least one processor (hereinafter, referred to as simply “processor”) 1202, and at least one memory (hereinafter, referred to as simply “memory”) 1203. According to at least one or a combination of methods corresponding to the embodiments described in the present disclosure, the transceiver 1201, the processor 1202, and the memory 1203 of the BS 1200 may operate. However, components of the BS 1200 are not limited to the exemplary components illustrated in FIG. 12. In another embodiment, the BS 1200 may further include additional components in addition to the above-mentioned components, or some components may be omitted. Further, in some embodiments, any combination of the transceiver 1201, the processor 1202, or the memory 1203 may be integrated in the form of one component.

[0163] The transceiver 1201 may be a communication circuit or communication circuitry that enables the BS 1200 to perform wireless communication with a node or an entity of a network. For example, the transceiver 1201 may enable the BS 1200 to transmit or receive a signal to or from the UE 1100 through cellular communication, or to transmit or receive a signal to or from another network entity through wireless communication. For example, the transceiver 1201 may support various cellular communication technologies including 3rd generation (3G), 4th generation (4G), long term evolution (LTE), 5th generation (5G) NR, 6th generation (6G), and various cellular wireless communication technologies supported by the transceiver (1201) may include all subsequent generations of evolved wireless communications. According to an embodiment, the transceiver 1201 may include various circuit structures used to transmit or receive signals to or from a UE through a wireless channel. The signals may include control information and data. For example, the transceiver 1201 may include a radio frequency (RF) transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of a transmitted signal and an RF receiver for low-noise-amplifying a received signal and down-converting the frequency thereof. The transceiver 1201 may output a signal received through a wireless channel to the processor 1202 and may transmit, through a wireless channel, a signal output from the processor 1202.

[0164] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the BS 1200 may perform communication with a node or an entity of a network through wired or wireless communication. For example, the BS 1200 may perform wired or wireless communication with an adjacent BS, or a node or an entity of a core network through a backhaul network. Although not illustrated in FIG. 12, when the BS 1200 performs wired communication, the BS 1200 may further include a separate network interface for wired communication in addition to the transceiver 1201. The network interface may be referred to as network interface circuitry or communication interface circuitry.

[0165] The processor 1202 may control general operations of the BS 1200 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The processor 1202 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuit (or circuitry) (IC) chips and may execute various data processings. The processor 1202 may include at least one electric circuit, and may execute instructions (or a program, codes, data, etc.) stored in the memory 1203, individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. Further, the processor 1202 may include a single-core processor or multi-core processor, and may include a processor assembly including a plurality of processing circuits (circuitry) according to a specific implementation scheme.

[0166] The processor 1202 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the transceiver 1201 to control the transceiver 1201.

[0167] The processor 1202 may include at least one processor (or processing circuitry), and the at least one processor may perform the following operations individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. In a specific embodiment, at least a part of the processor 1202 may be included in one chip and the other part of the processor 1202 may be included in another chip. Otherwise, at least one processor may be included in another component, for example, the transceiver 1201 or the memory 1203.

[0168] The processor 1202 may perform or control or cause an operation of the BS 1200 for executing at least one or a combination of methods according to embodiments of the disclosure. For example, the processor 1202 may control operations of the BS 1200 for generating and transmitting a downlink signal to a UE or processing an uplink signal received from a UE. Otherwise, the BS 1200 may transmit or receive a signal to or from a neighboring BS, transfer a signal received from a UE to an upper node of the network, or transmit a signal transferred from an upper node of the network to a UE. To this end, the processor 1202 may execute a computer program, codes, or instructions stored in the memory 1203, so as to control other components of the BS 1200 to enable execution of various operations.

[0169] The memory 1203 corresponds to a hardware storage device capable of temporarily or permanently storing information and may include one or more storage media. For example, the memory 1203 may include a memory assembly including one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include permanent memory, such as a hard drive, flash memory, or read-only memory (ROM), semipermanent memory, such as random access memory (RAM), cache memory, or a combination thereof.

[0170] The memory 1203 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the processor 1202 and may be accessed by the processor 1202.

[0171] The memory 1203 may store a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1202. According to an embodiment, a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1202 may be either stored in a single memory device or separated and distributedly stored in two or more memory devices. By executing the instructions stored in the memory 1203, the processor 1202 may perform various functions according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0172] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, operations of the BS 1200 may be caused to be performed based on execution of instructions (or a computer program or codes) stored in the memory 1203 by at least one processor (or processing circuitry) configured to execute the same individually, collectively, or in any combination thereof, based on processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions, and / or based on components of processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions.

[0173] The UE or the base station may perform various communication procedures related to the control plane or the user plane by cooperating with one or more network entities based on wireless communication. For example, the UE may communicate with network entity such as an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) or a Session Management Function (SMF) via the base station, or the base station may perform at least one communication procedure by directly transmitting and receiving signals to / from, or relaying signals between, the network entities.

[0174] The structure of the above-described network entity will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0175] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a network entity 1300 according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0176] The network entity 1300 may include an entity (apparatus, device, or server, etc.) that performs one or more network functions (NFs) or a part of a network function constituting a core network (e.g., a 5th generation (5G) core (5GC)) in a communication system. In this case, multiple NFs may be implemented within a single network entity, or a single NF may be distributed and implemented across a plurality of network entities. In addition, when an NF is implemented within the network entity, the NF may be implemented in the form of software, and in such a case, a program for operating the NF may be stored in memory of the network entity 1300.

[0177] A single NF may be implemented by one or more instances, which may be deployed on the same network entity or distributed across multiple network entities to operate. The instance may be a software unit that logically executes a specific network function, and may be implemented in a form that is decoupled from physical hardware resources. Further, one or more NFs may be implemented in the form of one network slice to operate to satisfy specifications required by a particular service.

[0178] The NF may include at least one of an access and mobility management function (AMF), a session management function (SMF), a local session management function (L-SMF), a user plane function (UPF), a local user plane function (L-UPF), a policy control function (PCF), a unified data management (UDM), a unified data repository (UDR), a network exposure function (NEF), a network repository function (NRF), an application function (AF), a network slice selection function (NSSF), a network data analytics function (NWDAF), a network slice admission control function (NSACF), an authentication server function (AUSF), or a data network (DN).

[0179] Referring to FIG. 13, the network entity 1300 may include at least one network interface 1301, at least one processor 1302 (hereinafter, “processor”), and at least one memory 1303 (hereinafter, “memory”). As described above, a NF may be implemented in the form of a physical device such as the network entity 1300, or may be virtualized and executed in the form of an instance. When implemented as an instance, the NF need not necessarily include physical components as illustrated in FIG. 13. In such a case, the instance may be logically represented as comprising one or more logical functional elements.

[0180] According to at least one or a combination of methods corresponding to the embodiments described in the present disclosure, the network interface 1301, the processor 1302, and the memory 1303 of the network entity 1300 may operate. However, components of the network entity 1300 are not limited to the exemplary components illustrated in FIG. 13. In another embodiment, the network entity 1300 may further include additional components in addition to the above-mentioned components, or some components may be omitted. Further, in an embodiment, the network interface 1301, the processor 1302, or the memory 1303 may be integrated in the form of one component.

[0181] The network interface 1301 is a collective term for a transmitter part of the network entity 1300 and a receiver part of the network entity 1300, and may be a communication circuit for transmitting or receiving a signal to or from a user equipment (UE), a base station (BS), or another network entity. Here, the communication circuit may include both a communication circuit for wireless communication and a communication circuit for a wired communication. For example, the network interface 1301 may include a circuit, logic, hardware, etc., configured to exchange a control plane message or a user plane message with a UE, a BS, or other core network entities through wireless communication or wired communication. The network interface 1301 may operate using various protocols (e.g., non-access stratum (NAS) protocol). The network interface 1301 may also be referred to, for convenience of description or depending on implementation, as communication circuitry, network interface circuitry, or a communication interface circuitry.

[0182] The processor 1302 may control general operations of the network entity 1300 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The processor 1302 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuit (or circuitry) (IC) chips and may execute various data processings. The processor 1302 may include at least one electric circuit, and may execute instructions (or a program, codes, data, etc.) stored in the memory 1303, individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. Further, the processor 1302 may include a single-core processor or multi-core processor, and may include a processor assembly including a plurality of processing circuits (circuitry) according to a specific implementation scheme. Further, it should be noted that, according to another embodiment, in a case where NF is implemented in the form of an instance, the network function may be not necessarily configured by physical hardware.

[0183] According to an embodiment, the processor 1302 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the network interface 1301 to control the network interface 1301.

[0184] The processor 1302 may include at least one processor (or processing circuitry), and the at least one processor may perform the following operations individually, collectively or in any combination thereof. In a specific embodiment, at least a part of the processor 1302 may be included in one chip and the other part of the processor 1302 may be included in another chip. Otherwise, at least one processor may be included in another component, for example, the network interface 1301 or the memory 1303.

[0185] The processor 1302 may perform or control or cause an operation of the network entity 1300 for executing at least one or a combination of methods according to embodiments of the disclosure. For example, the processor 1302 may control operations of the network entity 1300 for exchanging a control plane message or a user plane message with a UE, a BS, or other core network entities through wireless or wired communication, using various protocols (e.g., NAS protocol). To this end, the processor 1302 may execute a computer program, codes, or instructions stored in the memory 1303, so as to control other components of the network entity 1300 to enable execution of various operations.

[0186] The memory 1303 corresponds to a hardware storage device capable of temporarily or permanently storing information and may include one or more storage media. For example, the memory 1303 may include a memory assembly including one or more storage media. For example, the one or more storage media may include permanent memory, such as a hard drive, flash memory, or read-only memory (ROM), semipermanent memory, such as random access memory (RAM), cache memory, or a combination thereof.

[0187] The memory 1303 may be electrically, operatively, or communicatively coupled to the processor 1302 and may be accessed by the processor 1302.

[0188] The memory 1303 may store a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1302. According to an embodiment, a computer program, codes, or instructions executable by the processor 1302 may be either stored in a single memory device or separated and distributedly stored in two or more memory devices. By executing the instructions stored in the memory 1303, the processor 1302 may perform various functions according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0189] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, operations of the network entity 1300 may be caused to be performed based on execution of instructions (or a computer program or codes) stored in the memory 1303 by at least one processor (or processing circuitry) configured to execute the same individually, collectively, or in any combination thereof, based on processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions, and / or based on components of processing circuitry that is not configured to execute instructions.

[0190] In one embodiment, a method for designing a radio access network (RAN) control plane in a communication system is provided, which comprises: establishing, by a network apparatus (100), a radio connection for a user equipment (UE) (602) through an essential protocol stack (EPS) (200); enabling, by the network apparatus (100), the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection; and configuring, by the network apparatus (100), different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, wherein the different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200).

[0191] In another embodiment, the method is provided, wherein configuring, by the network apparatus (100), different EPS instances for different types of UEs comprises: operating, by the network apparatus (100), the EPS (200) in a static mode for at least one of the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE, wherein the EPS (200) operates in the static mode by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages; and operating, by the network apparatus (100), the EPS (200) in a scalable mode for at least one of the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE by enabling services through separate messages.

[0192] In another embodiment, the method is provided, wherein the fixed basic services comprises maintaining a radio connection for a UE (602) through the EPS (200), and wherein the distinct messages are generated for the additional services added while the EPS (200) is in the static mode or the scalable mode.

[0193] The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein enabling, by the network apparatus (100), the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200) comprises: receiving, by the network apparatus (100), a request message from the UE (602) requesting for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection; determining, by the network apparatus (100), whether the UE (602) is the limited capability UE or the enhanced capability UE upon receiving the request for the additional services; and transmitting, by the network apparatus (100), data over the radio connection established through the EPS instances including the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE.

[0194] In another embodiment, the method is provided, operating, by the network apparatus (100), the network apparatus (100) in the static mode comprises: generating, by the network apparatus (100), additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602), when the network apparatus (100) is in the static mode; adding, by the network apparatus (100), the additional service messages as separate messages along with a EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200); and generating, by the network apparatus (100), a main message by combining the EPS message and the additional service messages, wherein the additional service messages are each added along with the EPS message in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane.

[0195] In another embodiment, the method is provided, wherein the EPS message comprises a measurement block (206), a connection management block (204), and a security block (208).

[0196] In another embodiment, the method is provided, wherein operating, by the network apparatus (100), the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode comprises: generating, by the network apparatus (100), additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602), when the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode; determining, by the network apparatus (100), whether to add the additional service messages within a EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) or as separate messages; performing, by the network apparatus (100), one of: generating, by the network apparatus (100), a main message by adding the additional service messages within the EPS message, wherein the main message is added without modifying the EPS message; and generating, by the network apparatus (100), the main message by adding the additional service messages as separate messages along with the main EPS message, wherein the additional service messages are added in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane.

[0197] In another embodiment, the method is provided, comprising: performing, by the network apparatus (100), a transmission of data between the UE (602) and the RAN control plane upon operating the network apparatus (100) in the static mode or the scalable mode.

[0198] In another embodiment, the method is provided, wherein the scalable mode of the network apparatus (100) supports a dynamic adjustment of the additional services based on service requirements associated with the UE (602).

[0199] In one embodiment, a network apparatus (100) for designing a RAN control plane in a wireless communication system is provided, which comprises: a processor (102); a memory (104) coupled to the processor (102); and a RAN controller (108) communicatively coupled to the processor (102) and the memory (104), wherein the RAN controller (108): establishes a radio connection for a UE (602) through an EPS (200); enables the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection; and configures different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, wherein the different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200).

[0200] Meanwhile, although specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims

1.A method for designing a radio access network (RAN) control plane in a communication system, comprising:establishing, by a network apparatus (100), a radio connection for a user equipment (UE) (602) through an essential protocol stack (EPS) (200);enabling, by the network apparatus (100), the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection; andconfiguring, by the network apparatus (100), different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, wherein the different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200).2.The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein configuring, by the network apparatus (100), different EPS instances for different types of UEs comprises:operating, by the network apparatus (100), the EPS (200) in a static mode for at least one of the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE, wherein the EPS (200) operates in the static mode by maintaining fixed basic services and adding the additional services separately with distinct messages; andoperating, by the network apparatus (100), the EPS (200) in a scalable mode for at least one of the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE by enabling services through separate messages.3.The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the fixed basic services comprises maintaining a radio connection for a UE (602) through the EPS (200), and wherein the distinct messages are generated for the additional services added while the EPS (200) is in the static mode or the scalable mode.4.The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein enabling, by the network apparatus (100), the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200) comprises:receiving, by the network apparatus (100), a request message from the UE (602) requesting for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection;determining, by the network apparatus (100), whether the UE (602) is the limited capability UE or the enhanced capability UE upon receiving the request for the additional services; andtransmitting, by the network apparatus (100), data over the radio connection established through the EPS instances including the limited capability UE and the enhanced capability UE.5.The method as claimed in claim 2, operating, by the network apparatus (100), the network apparatus (100) in the static mode comprises:generating, by the network apparatus (100), additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602), when the network apparatus (100) is in the static mode;adding, by the network apparatus (100), the additional service messages as separate messages along with a EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200); andgenerating, by the network apparatus (100), a main message by combining the EPS message and the additional service messages, wherein the additional service messages are each added along with the EPS message in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane.6.The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein the EPS message comprises a measurement block (206), a connection management block (204), and a security block (208).7.The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein operating, by the network apparatus (100), the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode comprises:generating, by the network apparatus (100), additional service messages corresponding to the additional services received from the UE (602), when the network apparatus (100) in the scalable mode;determining, by the network apparatus (100), whether to add the additional service messages within a EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) or as separate messages;performing, by the network apparatus (100), one of:generating, by the network apparatus (100), a main message by adding the additional service messages within the EPS message, wherein the main message is added without modifying the EPS message; andgenerating, by the network apparatus (100), the main message by adding the additional service messages as separate messages along with the main EPS message, wherein the additional service messages are added in the main message without modifying a functionality of the EPS message corresponding to the EPS (200) within the RAN control plane.8.The method as claimed in claim 1, comprising:performing, by the network apparatus (100), a transmission of data between the UE (602) and the RAN control plane upon operating the network apparatus (100) in the static mode or the scalable mode.9.The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scalable mode of the network apparatus (100) supports a dynamic adjustment of the additional services based on service requirements associated with the UE (602).10.A network apparatus (100) for designing a RAN control plane in a wireless communication system, comprising:a processor (102);a memory (104) coupled to the processor (102); anda RAN controller (108) communicatively coupled to the processor (102) and the memory (104), wherein the RAN controller (108):establishes a radio connection for a UE (602) through an EPS (200);enables the UE (602) to request for additional services provided by the RAN control plane via the EPS (200), upon establishment of the radio connection; andconfigures different EPS instances for different types of UEs including a limited capability UE and an enhanced capability UE, wherein the different EPS instances supports transmission of data over the radio connection established through the EPS (200).

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