Dual Connectivity MDT Measurement Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing minimization of drive tests (MDTs) methods are inadequate for accurately assessing network performance in dual-connectivity configurations, as measurements taken in single-connectivity configurations do not reflect the performance in dual-connectivity scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of improved methods and apparatuses that enable MDTs to be performed concurrently with a UE connected to two base stations in a dual-connectivity configuration, allowing for accurate quality of service measurements and reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MDT measurements are performed in single-connectivity configuration, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates because it does not reflect dual-connectivity network performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the MDT measurement process into distinct components: single-connectivity measurements, dual-connectivity measurements, and handover measurements. Each component has its own configuration parameters and reporting requirements, allowing the system to selectively enable dual-connectivity MDT when needed while maintaining simple single-connectivity MDT for basic scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configuration where MDT measurement parameters are adjusted based on the current connectivity state. The network can dynamically switch between single-connectivity and dual-connectivity measurement modes, and between immediate and logged MDT types, allowing the measurement system to adapt to changing network conditions and requirements.
2Reliability
If MDT measurements are performed while UE is connected to two base stations, then network performance assessment accuracy improves, but measurement and reporting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates dual-connectivity MDT into distinct measurement components for the first base station (master node) and second base station (secondary node). Each base station's measurements are configured and reported independently, allowing the system to capture dual-connectivity performance without creating an intractably complex monolithic measurement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the concept of a master node as an intermediary that coordinates the dual-connectivity MDT process. The master node receives configuration, manages the measurement process, and handles reporting, thereby simplifying the overall complexity by providing a centralized control point for dual-connectivity measurements.
3Loss of time
If immediate MDT is used to reduce latency, then responsiveness improves, but energy consumption increases compared to logged MDT
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic selection between immediate MDT and logged MDT based on network conditions and requirements. The network can configure the UE to use immediate MDT when rapid performance assessment is needed (accepting higher energy consumption), or switch to logged MDT when energy efficiency is prioritized and latency is less critical, allowing flexible trade-off management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic logged MDT measurements as a lower-energy alternative to continuous immediate MDT. Instead of constantly measuring and reporting, the UE performs measurements at scheduled intervals and stores them locally, reducing energy consumption while still providing periodic performance assessment capability.
4Productivity
If comprehensive MDT measurements are collected in dual-connectivity mode, then network optimization capability improves, but information processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and separates the measurement data from different connectivity modes (single-connectivity, dual-connectivity, handover) into distinct data sets. This extraction allows the network to selectively process only the relevant measurement data for specific optimization tasks, rather than processing all possible measurement data uniformly, thereby reducing unnecessary information processing load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different processing and reporting configurations to different measurement types based on their specific requirements. For example, certain measurements may be reported immediately while others are logged, or different reporting granularities are applied to measurements from different base stations, allowing the system to optimize information processing by treating different data with appropriate local quality rather than uniform processing.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. A user equipment (UE) may identify that the UE is operating in a dual-connectivity configuration with a master node (MN) and a secondary node (SN). The UE may receive at least one request that the UE report MDT measurements. The UE may perform a first portion of measurements associated with the first base station and perform a second portion of measurements associated with the second base station. The UE may perform the measurements while the UE is operating in the dual-connectivity configuration. The UE may transmit one or more reports including information indicative of the first portion of measurements, information indicative of the second portion of measurements, or both.