Handover Control in Hybrid Cell Configurations
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In virtualized Radio Access Network (vRAN) architectures, there is a challenge in managing radio access to ensure seamless handovers between cells operating in different modes, such as shared cell and unique cell configurations, which can lead to disruptions in service for user equipment (UE) as it moves between cells.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of techniques that allow the network to assist UE during handovers by determining the operating mode of neighboring cells and facilitating handovers to cells operating in the same mode as the source cell, using methods such as RRC measurement control and conditional handover mechanisms to ensure continuous service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If handovers are performed between cells in hybrid cell configuration environments, then UE mobility is enabled, but service continuity is disrupted when transitioning between different operating modes (shared cell and unique cell)
Solution Approach 1:
The network performs preliminary actions by identifying the operating mode of the source cell (shared or unique) and pre-determining the target cell's operating mode before handover execution. The network assistant proactively selects a target cell that matches the source cell's operating mode, preventing service disruption before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The network utilizes feedback mechanisms where the network assistant receives information about the source cell's operating mode and uses this feedback to determine the appropriate target cell. This closed-loop approach ensures that handovers maintain consistent operating modes, preserving service continuity while enabling UE mobility.
2Reliability
If the network assists UE during handovers by determining operating modes of neighboring cells, then service continuity is maintained, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A network assistant is introduced as an intermediary component that handles the complexity of operating mode determination and target cell selection. This dedicated assistant simplifies the overall network architecture by centralizing the handover decision-making logic, reducing the complexity burden on other network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The network assistant performs self-service by autonomously determining the operating modes of neighboring cells and selecting appropriate target cells without requiring extensive manual configuration. This automated self-service approach maintains service continuity while minimizing the operational complexity for network administrators.
Data Source
AI summary
Presented herein are techniques to support handovers in hybrid cell configuration environments. In one example, a method may include determining that a user equipment (UE) is connected to a first shared cell or a first unique cell of a radio access network; and causing a handover for the UE to a second shared cell or a second unique cell of the radio access network based on whether the UE is connected to the first shared cell or the first unique cell, wherein the handover is performed between one of the first shared cell and the second shared cell or the first unique cell and the second unique cell.