5G MB Session Handover for Seamless Multicast Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multicast/Broadcast services are not supported on 5G NR, and there is a need for improved systems and methods to ensure session continuity during handovers in 5G networks, particularly for Mission Critical Services and V2X services, which require enhanced performance due to the characteristics of 5G NR.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution includes establishing MB Session resources in the target NG-RAN during the Xn and N2 handover preparation phases, utilizing new parameters in existing messages to optimize resource setup and release, and introducing a Temporary Mobile Group Identity (TMGI) to enhance session continuity during handovers in 5G NR radio access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing handover procedures (TS 23.502 v16.4.0 clauses 4.9.1.2 and 4.9.1.3) are used, then handover between NG-RAN nodes can be performed, but session continuity for MB Sessions is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing MB Session resources in the target NG-RAN during the handover preparation phase, before the actual handover execution. This ensures that when the handover is completed, the MB Session resources are already in place and session continuity is maintained without interruption.
2Reliability
If MB Session resources are established during handover preparation phase, then service continuity is improved, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the MB Session resource establishment procedure with the existing handover preparation signaling. By combining these operations, the patent avoids additional separate signaling exchanges and reduces overall signaling overhead while ensuring service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enhances existing handover messages to serve multiple functions: both the handover coordination and the MB Session resource establishment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated signaling for MB Session setup.
3Reliability
If MB services are added to 5G NR, then enhanced performance for Mission Critical Services and V2X is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic resource establishment for MB Sessions in the target NG-RAN, allowing the system to adaptively allocate and manage multicast/broadcast resources based on handover requirements. This dynamic approach enables enhanced service performance while managing system complexity through on-demand resource allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for session continuity of Multicast Broadcast (MB) Sessions are provided. In some embodiments, a method performed by a base station for session continuity of MB Sessions includes at least one of: providing at least one MB Session to a wireless device connected in 5G; determining that the wireless device is handed over to a target Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN); and providing session continuity of the at least one MB Session to the wireless device. In some embodiments, being handed over to the target NG-RAN comprises an Xn handover. In some embodiments, being handed over to the target NG-RAN comprises a N2 handover. Some embodiments of the current disclosure provide support for Multicast Broadcast Session continuity (aka “Handover”) at Inter-gNB Xn Handover and Inter-gNB N2 Handover in the 5G NR radio access.