Direct NTN UE Discovery for Feeder-Link Bypass Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems, particularly 5G NR, face challenges in efficiently handling direct non-terrestrial network (NTN) communications due to the complexity and resource consumption caused by mobile NTN nodes, which can lead to increased latency and load on feeder links, especially in areas with limited or no terrestrial network coverage.
Innovation Solution
A configuration for an initial end-to-end discovery procedure in direct NTN communication that allows UEs to determine if an intended peer UE is reachable via direct NTN communication, bypassing ground-based feeder links, by receiving an indication of support for direct NTN communication from a network entity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If direct NTN communication is implemented between UEs, then latency is reduced and feeder link load is decreased, but device complexity and initial connection setup complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network entity pre-configures UEs with direct NTN communication parameters and capabilities before actual communication occurs. The network entity provides indication information about supported direct NTN communication modes, allowing UEs to prepare for direct communication in advance without complex real-time setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The network entity acts as an intermediary that facilitates direct NTN communication by providing configuration information and coordination services. Rather than UEs directly negotiating complex connection parameters, the network entity mediates the initial setup by providing pre-configured parameters that simplify the direct communication establishment.
2Reliability
If UEs establish direct NTN communication bypassing ground-based feeder links, then network reachability is enhanced, but the complexity of managing multiple communication paths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is segmented into distinct modes: traditional feeder link communication and direct NTN communication. The network entity provides indication information that helps UEs determine which mode to use based on their specific situation, allowing simple selection between predefined communication paths rather than complex dynamic management of multiple paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts between different communication modes (feeder link vs. direct NTN) based on network conditions and UE capabilities. The network entity provides indication information that enables UEs to dynamically select the appropriate communication mode without requiring complex path management logic.
3Productivity
If direct NTN communication is enabled, then resource utilization is optimized, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring communication quality increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network entity provides feedback through indication information about direct NTN communication support and capabilities. This feedback mechanism allows UEs to understand the communication quality and suitability of direct NTN modes without requiring complex autonomous measurement and detection procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for direct NIN communication. The apparatus receives, from a network entity, an indication indicating support for a direct NTN communication. The direct NTN communication between the first UE and at least a second UE bypasses ground-based feeder links. The apparatus transmits, to the network entity, a communication request for the direct NTN communication with at least the second UE based on the indication indicating support for the direct NTN communication. The communication request is transmitted to the second UE via the direct NTN communication. The apparatus receives, from the second UE, a communication request feedback message indicating that the second UE is reachable over the direct NTN communication. The communication request feedback message is received from the second UE via the direct NTN communication.