Feature-Based Cell Access Control for NES-Capable 5G UEs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G NR networks face challenges in efficiently managing network access and load balancing for UEs with varying levels of Network Energy Saving (NES) capabilities, leading to inefficiencies and potential load imbalances due to the need for fine-grained control over UE access based on feature support.
Innovation Solution
Implementing enhanced fields in MIB/SIB signals to control network access based on feature support, allowing UEs to prioritize or deprioritize cells based on supported features, and enabling load balancing through dynamic cell reselection and feature coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If Network Energy Saving (NES) features are implemented in 5G NR networks, then energy efficiency is improved, but access control complexity increases due to the need for fine-grained control over UE access based on feature support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments UE access control into distinct categories based on NES feature support: NES-capable UEs and legacy UEs. This segmentation enables the network to apply different access control policies to different UE groups, resolving the contradiction by simplifying the control logic through clear categorization while maintaining fine-grained control where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enabling individual cells to configure their own access control policies based on local conditions. Each cell can independently decide whether to bar legacy UEs or allow both NES-capable and legacy UEs, allowing optimized energy saving in specific locations without affecting the entire network.
2Loss of energy
If cells bar legacy UEs to enable NES techniques, then energy saving is improved, but load balancing deteriorates due to potential concentration of legacy UEs in fewer cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic access control where cells can change their barring policies based on real-time conditions. Cells may dynamically switch between barring legacy UEs and allowing them, enabling the network to optimize energy saving when conditions permit while maintaining load balancing when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network monitors UE capabilities and network conditions to adjust access control policies. This feedback loop enables the system to respond to changing load patterns and optimize both energy saving and load balancing dynamically.
3Measurement precision
If enhanced fields are added to MIB/SIB signals for feature indication, then access control precision is improved, but signal structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the enhanced fields in MIB/SIB universal by designing them to serve multiple purposes: indicating NES feature support, providing access control information, and maintaining backward compatibility with legacy UEs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated fields, thereby limiting the increase in signal structure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding complex new fields from scratch, the patent repurposes existing field structures and uses enhancement techniques that leverage current signal formats. This approach achieves precise access control without proportionally increasing signal structure complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A First transceiver, especially transceiver of a user equipment, UE, is configured to receive a signal comprising one or more enhanced fields carrying an information for access control based upon feature support and/or feature activation, wherein the transceiver is configured to control its own access to the cell dependent on the one or more enhanced fields.