Layer 2 UE to UE Relay Adaptation Headers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in providing efficient UE to UE relay functionalities, particularly in Layer 2 protocols, where existing solutions lack end-to-end security and quality of service guarantees, and are not scalable for multi-hop relaying.
Innovation Solution
Implementing Layer 2 UE to UE relay functionalities using a relay UE that connects two remote UEs directly, employing adaptation headers to manage data forwarding and quality of service, and establishing hop-by-hop path configurations for efficient data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Layer 2 UE to UE relay functionalities are implemented using existing solutions, then basic data forwarding is achieved, but end-to-end security and quality of service guarantees are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay functionality into distinct Layer 2 components including adaptation layer, MAC layer, and RLC layer operations. Each layer handles specific security and QoS functions independently, allowing complex relay operations to be managed through modular, layer-specific mechanisms rather than monolithic complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an adaptation layer as an intermediary between the upper layers and the relay MAC/RLC operations. This adaptation layer mediates security and QoS requirements by adding adaptation headers that carry necessary control information, enabling end-to-end security and QoS guarantees without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire relay stack.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional relay methods are used, then simple data forwarding is possible, but scalability for multi-hop relaying is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic relay operations where UEs can be dynamically selected as relays based on current network conditions, and relay paths can be dynamically established and modified. The adaptation layer enables dynamic routing decisions and QoS parameter adjustments for each hop, allowing the system to scale from single-hop to multi-hop relaying while maintaining transmission efficiency through adaptive path selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal Layer 2 relay mechanism that can function across single-hop and multi-hop scenarios using the same adaptation layer framework. The adaptation headers and relay operations are designed to be universally applicable regardless of the number of hops, enabling scalable deployment from simple two-UE relaying to complex multi-UE relay chains without requiring different mechanisms for different scenarios.
3Reliability
If direct UE to UE connection is established, then connectivity is achieved, but security and QoS guarantees are not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary security and QoS setup through the adaptation layer before actual data transmission occurs. The adaptation headers are pre-configured with security parameters and QoS information, and relay UEs are pre-authenticated and pre-configured with relay permissions. This preliminary action ensures security and QoS guarantees are in place before data flows through the direct UE-to-UE connection, avoiding the need for complex real-time security negotiations during transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for using a relay user equipment (UE) to transport data of interest received from a first remote UE to a second remote UE on a UE to UE relay within a wireless communication system are discussed herein. These methods may be performed at Layer 2 of a protocol stack of the wireless communication system. Data packets sent on the UE to UE relay may include an adaptation header including routing information (e.g., Layer 2 addresses, a bearer-specific index, etc.) for the UE to UE relay. An adaptation layer may accordingly be provided within Layer 2 to decode these adaptation headers. In some cases, a per-bearer approach may be used to map between individual direct bearers of a hop by hop path configuration of the UE to UE relay. Embodiments eschewing the adaptation header and instead using logical channel identifiers (LCIDs) to make routing indications are also described.