Cell Selection via Network Type Indications in eLTE Base Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the context of 5G wireless communications, there is a need for a method to facilitate cell selection and reselection in areas covered by eLTE base stations connected to both EPC and next-generation core networks, which support multiple network slices, to efficiently manage different access and core network types.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating and broadcasting system information that includes cell state indications for different network types and core network functions, allowing user equipment to determine whether to use a cell for selection or reselection based on these indications, which can be 'Allowed,' 'Prohibited,' or 'Not Supported,' enabling prioritization and exclusion of cells accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If eLTE base stations are upgraded to support both EPC and next-generation core networks, then network versatility and service capabilities are improved, but device complexity and cell selection difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cell information by introducing separate indication fields for different network types (E-UTRAN and 5G-RAN). The base station divides the cell state information into multiple indicators corresponding to different network access types, allowing UE to selectively process only the relevant network type information for its capabilities and service requirements, thus reducing selection complexity while maintaining multi-network support
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to cell information representation by introducing network type-specific state indicators. Instead of a single cell state field, the system now includes multiple dimensions of information (E-UTRAN cell state, 5G-RAN cell state, etc.), enabling UE to navigate the complex network environment by selecting appropriate dimensions based on its network type and service needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network slices are supported in the next-generation core, then service diversity and QoS capabilities are improved, but information processing complexity and cell determination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments cell state information by network slice type, introducing separate indication fields for different core network function types (EPC, 5G-Core, etc.). Each network slice has its own state indicator, allowing UE to process only the relevant slice information needed for its service requirements, reducing overall information processing complexity while supporting diverse services
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing differentiated cell state information for different network slices and access types. Each cell broadcasts tailored state indicators specific to its supported network types and core functions, allowing UE to make locally optimized cell selection decisions based on its specific service needs and capabilities without being overwhelmed by global network complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for determining a candidate cell, corresponding user equipment, and a corresponding base station. The method comprises: receiving system information of a cell, wherein the system information comprises at least a first network type cell state indication and a second network type cell state indication; and determining, according to a network type cell state indication in the received system information, whether to use the cell as a candidate cell for cell selection/reselection.