Inter-PLMN ProSe Configuration Data Exchange via Selective Device Reporting

The patent segments the mobile device population by selecting only a limited number of specific mobile devices (e.g., those in specific geographic locations, with specific capabilities, or in specific service states) to acquire and report ProSe configuration data. This segmentation allows the configuration data exchange function to be performed by a small subset of devices without impacting the reception capacity of the entire device population, thus resolving the contradiction between simplified data exchange and maintained reception capacity.

The patent introduces the serving PLMN network infrastructure as an intermediary that performs the selection and configuration of mobile devices for acquiring ProSe configuration data from other PLMNs. Instead of implementing complex selection logic in each mobile device, the network acts as a mediator that centrally manages the selection process based on predefined criteria (geographic location, device capabilities, service state). This transfers the complexity from the device side to the network side, reducing the effort required at the device level while maintaining manageable system complexity through centralized control.

The patent implements periodic action by having selected mobile devices acquire and report ProSe configuration data at specific intervals or under specific triggering events (e.g., when configuration changes are detected, when the device enters/leaves certain geographic areas, or at scheduled times). This periodic approach ensures that configuration data remains sufficiently up-to-date for ProSe services while avoiding continuous monitoring that would consume excessive energy and interfere with other services. The periodic updates strike a balance between information freshness and resource conservation.