Dual Connectivity Band Selection Using MN-SN Throughput Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing MR-DC CA configurations do not maximize throughput due to insufficient coordination between the master and secondary nodes, leading to suboptimal selection of band combinations and feature sets, which affects network efficiency.

Innovation Solution

Implement a method for MR-DC CA configuration that includes signaling additional information about achievable throughput and feature sets between the master and secondary nodes to optimize band combination selection, allowing for a more efficient network operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If MR-DC CA configuration is performed with traditional MN or SN preferred methods, then the configuration process is simple, but the total throughput is not maximized

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveMR-DC CA throughputVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the secondary node evaluates the configured band combination and feature set, then provides feedback to the master node about whether the configuration achieves optimal throughput. Based on this feedback, the master node can adjust the configuration to maximize total MR-DC throughput while maintaining manageable complexity through iterative optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If additional coordination information is signaled between MN and SN, then band combination selection is optimized, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveband combination selection efficiencyVSAvoidsignaling overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential coordination information needed for optimization - specifically the secondary node's evaluation of whether the current band combination and feature set configuration achieves optimal throughput. By taking out only this critical feedback rather than exchanging all possible configuration parameters, the patent reduces signaling overhead while maintaining selection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If MR-DC is configured with multiple band combinations and feature sets, then adaptability to different scenarios is improved, but configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescenario adaptabilityVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic configuration where the master node and secondary node can adjust band combinations and feature sets based on current network conditions and throughput requirements. Rather than statically configuring all possible combinations, the system dynamically selects and adjusts configurations, maintaining high adaptability to different scenarios while reducing complexity through on-demand configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4238342B1Method and apparatus for dual connectivity
Publication Date: 2025.12.03 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP4238342B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP4238342B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP4238342B1 patent drawingFigure 1C

AI summary

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for dual connectivity. The method which may be performed by a first network node comprises determining a first configuration for dual connectivity of a terminal device supported by the first network node and a first performance evaluation of the first configuration. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises transmitting a first message to a second network node. The first message may indicate the first configuration and the first performance evaluation.