Inter-Network Handover Signaling for Same Access Node Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing handovers between access and mobility management functions in different networks, particularly when the source and target access nodes are the same, leading to logistical complexities and potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and apparatus that includes determining the need for handover between access and mobility management functions, sending context update requests with an indication of the same source and target access nodes, and performing reconfiguration based on handover commands to ensure seamless transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If handover is performed between access and mobility management functions in different networks, then mobility management is achieved, but logistical complexities and potential service disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a context update mechanism as an intermediary process between source and target access and mobility management functions. This intermediary context update request/response system coordinates the handover process, managing the complexity of inter-network transitions and preventing service disruptions through structured information exchange.
2Adaptability or versatility
If handover is performed between access and mobility management functions in different networks, then mobility management is achieved, but service disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary context update requests before the actual handover execution. The source access and mobility management function sends context update requests to the target function in advance, preparing the target network resources and ensuring seamless service continuity during the handover process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism through context update responses. The target access and mobility management function responds to context update requests with confirmation messages, providing feedback that ensures the handover process proceeds correctly and maintains service reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If context update requests are sent between networks, then handover coordination is achieved, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the context update request and response messages as multi-functional signaling elements. These messages serve multiple purposes including handover coordination, context information transfer, and service continuity assurance, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated signaling messages and lowering overall signaling overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an apparatus comprising determining, by a first access and mobility management function in a first network, that handover of a user equipment from the first access and mobility management function to a second access and mobility management function in a second network is required; sending, to the second access and mobility management function, a context update request for the user equipment, wherein the context update request comprises an indication that the source and target access node are the same; and receiving, from the second access and mobility management function, a context update response based on the context update request, the context update response comprising the indication that the source and target access node are the same.