Adaptive PLMN Scanning for Discontinuous Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless communication systems face challenges in managing and optimizing finite wireless channel resources due to signal attenuation or blocking in complex and dynamic environments, particularly for user equipment (UE) connected to public land mobile networks (PLMNs) with discontinuous coverage (DC), where traditional scanning techniques may lead to inefficient power usage and missed connection opportunities.
Innovation Solution
The UE performs a PLMN scan according to a first schedule when associated with a preferred PLMN having DC and a second schedule when not associated with DC, adjusting the scanning frequency based on expected coverage periods and gaps to ensure timely connection and conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional PLMN scanning techniques are used for PLMNs with discontinuous coverage, then the UE may miss connection opportunities during coverage gaps, but increasing scanning frequency continuously consumes excessive power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the scanning behavior adaptive rather than static. The UE dynamically adjusts its scanning schedule based on the detected coverage pattern of the PLMN. When coverage is continuous, scanning follows a standard periodic schedule. When discontinuous coverage is detected, the UE dynamically modifies scanning timing to align with expected coverage periods, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining connection success and reducing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by establishing regular scanning intervals that are synchronized with the PLMN's coverage pattern. Instead of continuous scanning, the UE performs scans at periodic intervals that match the expected coverage periods. This periodic approach ensures the UE scans during available coverage windows while avoiding scans during coverage gaps, thus improving connection success without excessive power consumption.
2Reliability
If the UE performs frequent PLMN scans to ensure connection to PLMNs with DC, then connection opportunities are captured, but power expenditure increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the UE perform an initial scanning phase to detect and characterize the PLMN's coverage pattern before establishing normal scanning operations. During this preliminary phase, the UE identifies coverage periods and gaps, storing this information for use in subsequent scanning decisions. This preliminary characterization enables the UE to perform scans only when beneficial, avoiding wasted energy on scans during coverage gaps while maintaining high scan success rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the results of initial scanning to inform and adjust subsequent scanning behavior. The UE scans for PLMNs, detects coverage patterns from these scans, and then uses this feedback information to optimize future scanning schedules. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures scanning resources are allocated efficiently, capturing connection opportunities while minimizing unnecessary power expenditure on scans during coverage gaps.
3Device complexity
If the UE uses a fixed scanning schedule for all PLMNs, then implementation is simple, but it cannot adapt to the specific coverage patterns of PLMNs with DC
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing PLMN scanning into distinct phases: an initial scanning phase to detect coverage patterns, and a normal scanning phase that adapts to the detected pattern. The scanning process is segmented based on the type of coverage (continuous vs. discontinuous), with different scanning strategies applied to different PLMNs based on their characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity for continuous coverage PLMNs while adapting to discontinuous coverage PLMNs without significantly increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques for a UE to select a public land mobile network (PLMN). In general, the present disclosure provides methods for PLMN scanning and selection of a PLMN with discontinuous coverage. In certain aspects, a UE may perform a PLMN scan according to a first schedule when a preferred PLMN of the UE is associated with discontinuous coverage (DC) and perform the PLMN scan according to a second schedule when the preferred PLMN of the UE is not associated with DC.