Dual-Connectivity Uplink PDCP Delay Reporting by Radio Leg

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for calculating uplink packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) delay in dual connectivity scenarios are inadequate, as a single D1 value may not provide sufficient information for the network, and it is challenging for the user equipment (UE) to calculate two separate delay measurements without enhancements.

Innovation Solution

The UE determines and transmits uplink PDCP delay associated with each radio network node it is connected to, reporting this delay to at least one of the nodes, along with the percentage of packets sent through each leg, allowing the network to understand which leg contributes most to the overall delay and make necessary adjustments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a single D1 value is reported for uplink PDCP delay in dual connectivity, then the reporting mechanism is simple, but the network cannot identify which leg contributes most to the overall delay

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelay information completenessVSAvoiddelay measurement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the delay measurement by introducing a granularity indicator that divides the delay into two components: D1 (PDCP layer delay) and D2 (RLC layer delay). This segmentation allows the network to identify which specific leg or layer contributes most to the overall delay while maintaining a structured reporting mechanism that balances information completeness with measurement complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Measurement precision

If the UE calculates separate delay measurements for each radio network node, then the network gains comprehensive delay information, but the UE implementation becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedelay measurement precisionVSAvoidUE implementation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by allowing different delay measurement and reporting behaviors based on the specific dual connectivity configuration and network requirements. The UE can calculate separate D1 and D2 measurements when needed, while the granularity indicator enables selective reporting that adapts to local network conditions, thereby achieving precise measurement without uniformly increasing complexity across all scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If the network receives detailed delay breakdown information, then it can make better optimization decisions, but the signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork optimization capabilityVSAvoidsignaling data volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial action by introducing an optional granularity indicator that provides detailed delay breakdown information only when required by the network. The network can request specific delay components (D1 or D2) based on its optimization needs, rather than always receiving complete detailed information. This approach enables adaptive optimization capability while controlling signaling overhead by transmitting only the necessary delay measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12507122B2User equipment, radio network node and methods for handling delay in dual connected mode
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US12507122B2 patent drawing
  • US12507122B2 patent drawing
  • US12507122B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, performed by a User Equipment (UE) in dual connected mode is provided. The method is for determining and transmitting an UpLink (UL) Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) delay. The UE is connected to at least two radio network nodes. The UE determines (430) the delay. The determined delay is associated with each of the radio network nodes to which the UE is connected. The UE then transmits (450), to at least one of the radio network nodes, the determined delay.