Downlink RRC Segmentation With Timer Synchronization for Large Messages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems face challenges in transmitting and managing RRC messages that exceed the maximum transmittable size, leading to inefficiencies and latency issues due to unsupported segmentation and timer management.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for segmenting RRC messages and managing timers in a mobile communication system, allowing for the transmission of messages exceeding the maximum size by segmenting them and synchronizing timer operations with the reception of all segments, including the introduction of a new DL segmented RRC message format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RRC messages are transmitted without segmentation, then the transmission protocol is simple, but messages exceeding maximum size cannot be delivered causing communication failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides large RRC messages into multiple segments for transmission. The base station segments the downlink RRC message when its size exceeds the maximum transmittable size, and the terminal reassembles the segments in correct order using sequence numbers and total segment count information, enabling delivery of large messages while maintaining protocol simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a segmentation management mechanism as an intermediary layer between the RRC message and transmission channel. This intermediary handles segmentation, sequence tracking, and reassembly, allowing the underlying transmission protocol to remain simple while supporting large message delivery
2Adaptability or versatility
If segmentation is implemented for large RRC messages, then message delivery capability is improved, but timer management becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the timer management function from the general message processing flow and creates a dedicated timer management mechanism specific to segmented message transmission. This separate timer mechanism tracks the reception of all segments independently, simplifying the overall system by dedicating specific resources to specific functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the terminal reports reception status of segmented messages to the base station. This feedback enables the base station to understand which segments have been received and manage retransmission or completion procedures, reducing complexity by providing clear state information
3Loss of time
If segmented RRC messages are transmitted, then latency is reduced for large messages, but synchronization between segments and timer operations becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent includes preliminary information in the first segment of the RRC message, such as the total number of segments and sequence numbering scheme. This preliminary action enables the terminal to prepare for reassembly in advance, knowing how many segments to expect and how to order them, thereby reducing latency and simplifying synchronization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses distinct identifiers and markers (analogous to color changes) to differentiate between segments, mark the first and last segments, and indicate the total segment count. These visual-like markers make it easy for the terminal to identify and synchronize segment reception without complex protocols
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. Disclosed is a method for processing a segmented RRC message and operating a timer related thereto.