Link Quality Reporting for EN-DC Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G NR networks, existing technologies face challenges in efficiently managing link quality metrics across dual connectivity configurations, particularly in non-ideal backhaul connections, which affects user throughput and resource utilization across different radio access technologies.
Innovation Solution
Implementing mechanisms for evaluating and reporting link quality metrics (LQMs) independently for each radio access technology on a per-component carrier basis, using weights associated with different links, and dynamically adjusting data flow based on LQM evaluations to optimize resource allocation and prioritize foreground data transfers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If link quality metrics are managed using existing technologies in dual connectivity configurations, then basic connectivity is maintained, but user throughput and resource utilization are suboptimal due to inefficient link quality management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments link quality management by introducing separate LQM evaluation mechanisms for each RAT (LTE and NR) and per component carrier. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each link's quality metrics, enabling better throughput by selectively routing data through the optimal RAT/CC combination while maintaining manageable complexity through structured organization of evaluation criteria.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic LQM evaluation where weights and criteria are adjusted based on current network conditions, link state, and data flow requirements. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to respond to changing channel conditions in real-time, maximizing user throughput while the structured framework keeps complexity manageable through automated adjustments.
2Productivity
If link quality metrics are evaluated independently for each RAT and component carrier with dynamic weighting, then resource utilization and throughput are improved, but the complexity of evaluation and reporting mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the evaluation mechanism into segmented components: separate LQM evaluators for each RAT, per-component-carrier assessment, and distinct weight sets for different link types. This segmentation improves resource utilization by enabling precise, granular control over quality metrics while managing complexity through modular architecture that can be implemented incrementally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting weights and evaluation criteria based on link conditions, traffic type, and network state. This allows the system to optimize resource utilization for different scenarios (e.g., foreground vs. background data) while the structured parameter management keeps the reporting mechanism complexity manageable through standardized procedures.
3Productivity
If data flow is dynamically adjusted based on LQM evaluations to prioritize foreground transfers, then user experience and throughput are enhanced, but the complexity of data flow management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic data flow adjustment where foreground and background data transfers are prioritized based on real-time LQM evaluations. This dynamic approach enhances data transfer efficiency by routing time-sensitive foreground traffic through optimal paths while maintaining simpler managed flows for background traffic, with the structured framework managing complexity through automated decision-making rules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where LQM evaluation results directly influence data flow routing decisions. This closed-loop feedback system enhances transfer efficiency by continuously adapting to link conditions, while the structured feedback procedures and standardized reporting keep management complexity manageable through systematic rather than ad-hoc control.
4Reliability
If existing link quality management approaches are used in non-ideal backhaul connections, then basic dual connectivity is maintained, but mobility performance and coverage are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the dual connectivity management by introducing separate LQM evaluation paths for LTE and NR connections with independent weighting criteria. This segmentation improves mobility performance by enabling independent optimization of each connection's reliability metrics, while the structured segmented approach manages complexity through organized separation of evaluation functions rather than monolithic management.
Data Source
AI summary
A user equipment (UE), or other network component can operate to configure a plurality of new radio (NR) links of a E-UTRAN new radio (NR) dual connectivity (EN-DC) comprising a first radio access technologies (RAT) and a second, different RAT. A first link quality metric (LQM) evaluation of the first RAT is generated independently of generating a second LQM evaluation of the second RAT. A radio frequency (RF) interface, is configured to provide, to RF circuitry, data for a transmission of the first LQM evaluation and the second LQM evaluation based on a data split at a protocol layer so that a network component of base station can utilize the data to configure a data flow over the links based on link quality metrics provided.