Intra-gNodeB Handover Clustering Across Terrestrial and NTN Cells

The network is segmented into multiple clusters, each with a dedicated central unit. Terrestrial cells are grouped into clusters (e.g., cluster 114a, 114b, 114c) with each cluster managed by a specific central unit (e.g., central unit 106a, 106b, 106c). This segmentation allows handovers to be localized within clusters, reducing the need for network-wide connection anchor changes and thereby decreasing computing resource usage while maintaining service continuity.

Connection anchors are pre-established at central units for each cluster before handovers occur. When a user device moves between terrestrial cells within the same cluster, the connection is already anchored at the appropriate central unit, eliminating the need for dynamic connection anchor changes. This preliminary setup reduces computing resource usage during handovers while ensuring seamless service continuity.

The network is divided into clusters with dedicated central units, so connection management is segmented and localized. Each central unit manages connections for its associated terrestrial cells and non-terrestrial cell independently. This segmentation simplifies connection management by limiting the scope of handover operations to within clusters, reducing device complexity while ensuring service continuity through localized anchor management.

Central units act as intermediaries between user devices and the core network. During handovers, the central unit manages the connection anchor locally within its cluster, eliminating the need for complex end-to-end connection reestablishment. This intermediary role simplifies the handover process and reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable service continuity through centralized local management.

The boundary area is segmented into multiple clusters, each with a dedicated central unit. Terrestrial cells in the boundary area (e.g., cells 112a-112d) are grouped into specific clusters (e.g., cluster 114a, 114b) with clear geographical boundaries. This segmentation enables precise determination of which central unit should manage handovers, improving handover accuracy when users move between terrestrial and non-terrestrial areas while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

Different clusters in the boundary area have specialized central units optimized for local handover management. Each central unit (e.g., central unit 106a, 106b) is responsible for specific terrestrial cells and their associated non-terrestrial cells, allowing for localized optimization of handover accuracy. This local quality approach ensures that handover decisions are made with precise knowledge of local coverage conditions, improving measurement precision while maintaining broad coverage.