BWP Alignment for L1/L2 Inter-Cell Mobility Handovers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G NR systems face challenges in optimizing inter-cell mobility by efficiently switching between source and target cells due to variations in bandwidth parts (BWP) and frequency locations, which can lead to suboptimal handover processes, especially in high-frequency transmissions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining whether a source cell and a target cell have at least one BWP within the same bandwidth range and configuring the user equipment (UE) and radio access network (RAN) to switch between cells based on matching or overlapping BWPs, allowing for seamless handovers by selecting appropriate configurations for intra-frequency or inter-frequency scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE switches between source cell and target cell with different bandwidth parts (BWP) and frequency locations, then inter-cell mobility is enabled, but handover efficiency deteriorates due to misaligned frequency configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting BWP configurations and frequency locations to ensure alignment between source and target cells during handover. The network configures the UE with specific BWP parameters (bandwidth, frequency offset, subcarrier spacing) that are optimized for the target cell, transforming the static frequency configuration into a dynamic one that adapts to mobility requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the target cell's BWP parameters before the actual handover occurs. The network provides the UE with advance information about the target cell's frequency location and BWP settings, allowing the UE to prepare for the frequency transition and execute the handover more efficiently without configuration delays.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the network configures multiple BWP options for UE, then adaptability to different frequency scenarios is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional configuration management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making BWP configurations conditional and scenario-based. Instead of static configurations, the network dynamically selects and activates specific BWP settings based on the current frequency scenario (intra-frequency or inter-frequency handover). This allows the system to adapt to different conditions while maintaining a manageable configuration structure through clear scenario differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the BWP configuration space into distinct scenarios: intra-frequency handover configurations and inter-frequency handover configurations. Each scenario has its own set of predefined parameters and rules, which simplifies the overall configuration management by breaking down the complex problem into manageable, scenario-specific segments rather than requiring a single universal configuration approach.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to configuring, restricting, and/or setting bandwidth part (BWP) or frequency locations for switching from source to target cells in a Layer 1 (L1)/Layer 2 (L2)-Centric Inter-Cell Mobility communication systems. Switching may be allowed for either same, overlapping, or non-overlapping BWPs within an intra-frequency bandwidth shared by the source and target cells.