Inter-System Handover Data Forwarding in 5G LTE Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 5G communication systems face challenges in supporting seamless handover between LTE and 5G networks, particularly in data forwarding during UE movement, due to differences in data bearer modes and architectures between the two systems.
Innovation Solution
A method involving base stations in both systems acquiring and transmitting EPS bearer information through intra-system handover processes, with AMF and MME entities facilitating data forwarding tunnel information to ensure continuous data transmission across systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If handover between LTE and 5G systems is implemented, then service continuity is improved, but data forwarding delays increase due to architectural differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing data forwarding tunnels before the handover is actually executed. The source base station configures data forwarding paths to the target base station in advance, so that when handover occurs, data can immediately flow through the pre-established tunnels without delay. This resolves the contradiction by preparing the data path beforehand, ensuring both service continuity and minimizing forwarding delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the core network entities (AMF, MME) as intermediaries to coordinate the handover process between LTE and 5G systems. These intermediaries facilitate the exchange of handover commands and data forwarding information, enabling seamless transition despite architectural differences. The intermediary mechanism ensures service continuity while managing the complexity of inter-system data forwarding.
2Reliability
If EPS bearer information is transmitted through intra-system handover processes, then data continuity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the handover mechanism to handle multiple scenarios (intra-system and inter-system handovers) through a unified framework. The same data forwarding tunnel establishment process is used whether the handover is within 5G, within LTE, or between the two systems. This multi-functional approach ensures data continuity across different handover types while avoiding the need for separate complex mechanisms for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the handover process into distinct phases: data forwarding tunnel establishment, handover command transmission, and data path switching. By dividing the complex inter-system handover into manageable segments, the system can handle EPS bearer information transmission systematically. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by making each phase independent and manageable while ensuring data continuity throughout the process.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. The present disclosure provides a method of a base station for supporting an inter-system handover from an evolved packet system (EPS) system to a 5th generation (5G) system. The method solves the data forwarding problem during the movement of a UE between an LTE system and a 5G system, so that the loss of data is avoided and the continuity of services is ensured.