Logical Network Node Identity for Satellite Tracking Area Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-geo satellite networks face challenges in managing network identities and tracking areas due to the rapid movement of satellites, which complicates handovers and paging procedures, especially when satellite beams move over geographical regions, disrupting connectivity and requiring efficient management of logical and physical network node identities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where network nodes determine the coverage areas of satellites based on orbit information, generate lists of tracking area identifiers (TAIs) for each satellite, and transmit RAN configuration messages to Access Mobility Function (AMF) to manage the switch between logical and physical network nodes, ensuring seamless service across satellite beam transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If satellite beams move over geographical regions to provide coverage, then connectivity to moving RAN is improved, but network identity management becomes complex and handovers are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network identity management by introducing a logical network node identifier that is separate from the physical network node identifier. This allows the physical satellite beam to move and change while the logical network node identity remains stable, simplifying management for moving RAN scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a logical network node as an intermediary between the physical satellite beam and the terminal. This logical layer mediates the connection, allowing terminals to communicate through a stable logical identity even as physical satellites move, thus resolving the complexity of tracking area management.
2Productivity
If physical network nodes switch due to satellite movement, then coverage is maintained, but tracking area management is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the physical network node to change while maintaining a stable logical network node identity. The logical node dynamically adapts to different physical satellites while presenting a consistent identity to terminals, ensuring reliable tracking area management during satellite transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a logical copy of the network node identity that persists across physical satellite changes. This logical copy maintains the tracking area information stable even as physical satellites switch, ensuring continuous and reliable tracking area management.
3Ease of operation
If logical network node identifiers are used, then handovers become smoother, but network configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network identity management into a separate logical layer, taking out the complexity of physical satellite tracking from the handover process. Terminals only need to manage logical node identities, simplifying their operation while the network handles physical satellite coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a network node (160) includes serving a cell area by a first physical network node for a first time duration. The first physical network node uses an identifier of a logical network node. For a second time duration, the cell area is served by a second physical network node. The second physical network node uses the identifier of the logical network node. The first physical network node serves the cell area with a first frequency band and the second physical network node serves the cell area with a second frequency band.