AMF Neighbor Mapping for Terrestrial-NTN Coverage Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G communication networks face challenges in providing comprehensive coverage due to fluctuating terrestrial network conditions and satellite availability, with no established coordination between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, leading to inefficiencies in managing network resources and user connectivity.
Innovation Solution
Integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks within the 5G architecture by maintaining a comprehensive list of neighboring nodes with GPS coordinates in the AMF, using the RAN Coverage Map Footprint Coordinator to adjust network coverage dynamically, and orchestrating radio base stations based on satellite availability to ensure seamless connectivity and traffic management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If terrestrial networks are used to provide coverage, then network infrastructure is established, but coverage gaps occur in challenging geographical terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges terrestrial networks and non-terrestrial networks (satellites, drones) into a unified 5G network architecture. The AMF maintains a comprehensive neighbor list that includes both terrestrial gNBs and non-terrestrial gNBs, enabling seamless integration and joint operation of different network types to provide comprehensive coverage across various geographical terrains.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces non-terrestrial network elements (satellites in space, drones in air) that operate in different spatial dimensions compared to traditional terrestrial networks. This dimensional expansion allows coverage in areas that are difficult or impossible to reach with ground-based infrastructure alone, such as remote regions, oceans, and mountainous areas.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of satellite coverage is implemented, then coverage can be customized, but responsiveness to changing network conditions is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms where the AMF continuously monitors network conditions, satellite availability, and traffic patterns. Based on this real-time feedback, the system automatically adjusts satellite coverage areas and traffic routing without manual intervention, enabling rapid adaptation to changing conditions while maintaining optimized coverage configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automation where the network automatically manages its own coverage optimization. The AMF autonomously processes neighbor lists, determines optimal satellite coverage areas, and coordinates with non-terrestrial gNBs to adjust beams and coverage dynamically, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention while maintaining adaptability.
3Device complexity
If terrestrial networks operate independently from non-terrestrial networks, then network management is simplified, but coordination for seamless connectivity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal neighbor list structure at the AMF that serves multiple functions: it stores both terrestrial and non-terrestrial gNB information, enables handover coordination, supports coverage optimization, and facilitates traffic routing decisions. This multi-functional data structure allows the system to manage diverse network types through a unified approach, balancing complexity management with seamless connectivity coordination.
4Reliability
If comprehensive neighbor lists with GPS coordinates are maintained, then network coordination is improved, but data storage and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-generating and storing comprehensive neighbor lists at the AMF before they are needed for coordination. These lists include GPS coordinates, gNB identifiers, and other essential information for both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. By preparing this data in advance, the system enables rapid coordination and decision-making during actual network operations without incurring real-time processing delays or requiring excessive on-demand data storage.
Data Source
AI summary
Presented herein are techniques through which an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) may obtain location information for a plurality of terrestrial radio base stations and a plurality of non-terrestrial network (NTN) radio base stations. The AMF may obtain an indication of neighboring NTN radio base stations for each of the plurality of terrestrial radio base stations and store an NTN neighbor list that includes the indication of the neighboring NTN radio base stations for each of the plurality of terrestrial radio base stations. The AMF may perform one or more actions with respect to the NTN neighbor list and the GPS coordinates.