Inter-RAT Conditional Handover for User Plane Data Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inter-RAT handovers in mobile communication networks often result in data loss and discontinuity due to the inability to utilize the UE context of the previous source RAT during the transition to a target RAT.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a conditional handover (CHO) mechanism that prepares for handovers between nodes using different radio access technologies by providing configuration information and core network compatibility indications, allowing the user equipment to derive security keys and manage data continuity during the transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional handover procedure is used between different RATs, then core network routing is updated, but user plane data continuity is lost and data loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a target UE context in the target node before the actual handover occurs. The source node creates the target UE context in advance, including all necessary configuration parameters and security keys, so that when handover is triggered, the user plane data continuity is maintained without data loss. This pre-preparation of the target context eliminates the need for re-establishing connections during handover.
2Productivity
If conditional handover with configuration information is provided, then handover preparation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the handover process into distinct phases: context preparation phase (where the source node creates target UE context with configuration information), handover decision phase (where conditions are evaluated), and execution phase (where handover is triggered). This segmentation allows each phase to be managed independently, reducing overall system complexity while improving preparation efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If handover conditions are determined by the apparatus, then handover triggering is improved, but measurement and detection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a mechanism where the apparatus continuously monitors handover conditions (such as signal strength, quality metrics) and provides feedback to the decision-making process. The apparatus evaluates whether predetermined conditions are met based on real-time measurements, enabling autonomous handover triggering while managing measurement complexity through structured condition evaluation.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, configured to operate in a mode such that the apparatus is communicating with a first and second node using different radio access technologies RAT. The apparatus being configured to respond to receipt of conditional handover information from the first node, the conditional handover information comprising configuration information for the second node and a core network indication indicating whether the first and second node provide access to a same, a compatible or an incompatible core network; to determine whether at least one handover condition is fulfilled; and where so to generate a handover confirmation report comprising an indication of the at least one handover condition that was determined to be fulfilled; to transmit the report to the second node; and to perform a handover such that the apparatus is no longer connected to the first node and the apparatus is connected to the second node.