Dual-Connectivity Radio Link Failure Handling via Secondary Node Data Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
In LTE dual-connectivity systems, radio link failures (RLF) lead to significant data transmission losses as existing methods require complete cessation of data transmission with both the MeNB and SeNB, even if the SeNB's radio link is intact, resulting in user data loss.
Innovation Solution
A method where a UE in dual-connectivity configuration receives a configuration message to continue data transmission through a secondary radio link when a failure occurs in the primary link, with a timer setting for maximum allowable time, allowing continued data transmission with the SeNB if no RLF is detected, thereby reducing data losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE stops all data transmission with both MeNB and SeNB when RLF occurs on Pcell, then radio link recovery can be performed, but user data is lost seriously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data transmission paths by allowing data transmission to continue through the SeNB's auxiliary bearer and split bearer even when RLF occurs on the MeNB's primary cell. This segmentation enables selective maintenance of data transmission through intact radio links while isolating the failed link for recovery procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent configures the UE in advance with dual-connectivity parameters including split bearer and auxiliary bearer configurations before RLF occurs. This preliminary configuration enables the UE to immediately switch to alternative data transmission paths when RLF happens, preventing data loss without waiting for recovery procedures.
2Loss of substance
If the UE continues data transmission through SeNB when RLF occurs on MeNB, then data loss is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the SeNB serve multiple functions: it acts as both a data transmission node during normal operation and as a backup data path during RLF conditions. The auxiliary bearer configured at the SeNB provides universal functionality that can handle data transmission regardless of the MeNB's status, reducing the need for additional dedicated backup infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If the UE monitors radio link quality on both MeNB and SeNB, then RLF detection accuracy improves, but measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different monitoring strategies to different radio links based on their roles. The MeNB's primary cell is monitored for control signaling integrity, while the SeNB's auxiliary bearer is monitored for data transmission continuity. This localized quality monitoring approach optimizes detection accuracy for each link's specific function while avoiding unnecessary monitoring of all possible parameters on all links.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a method for handling a radio link failure, including: a User Equipment (UE) in dual-connectivity configuration receiving a first configuration message; when a failure occurs in a first radio link of the UE, sending a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection re-establishment request; and, in an RRC connection re-establishment process, when the UE detects that no failure occurs in a second radio link, performing data transmission through the second radio link. Also disclosed are another four methods, user equipments, base stations and storage mediums for handling a radio link failure.