Data Forwarding Optimization in LTE Dual Connectivity Handover
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Solution Overview
Problem
In LTE cellular networks, the small cell coverage range of Low Power Nodes (LPNs) is limited, leading to increased handover failure probabilities for medium-to-high speed mobile User Equipment (UE), affecting service continuity, and existing dual connectivity handover methods are inefficient in optimizing data forwarding.
Innovation Solution
A data transmission method where a first node directly transmits a forwarding address to a second node via specific messages (e.g., SeNB modification request, adding, or reconfiguration completion messages) when an X2 interface exists, enabling direct data forwarding between nodes during inter-MeNB handover scenarios, optimizing data forwarding paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If small cells are deployed to improve data rate and spectral efficiency, then system capacity and coverage are improved, but handover failure probability increases due to limited coverage range
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into macro eNBs for coverage and small cells (HeNB, pico eNB, RRH) for capacity enhancement. Each segment serves specific functions: macro eNB provides broad coverage and mobility management, while small cells provide high-speed data access in hotspots. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of high data rates and reliable handovers by distributing functions across different network layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The macro eNB acts as an intermediary between the core network and small cells during handover processes. It receives handover requests, coordinates with target small cells, and manages the handover execution. This intermediary role ensures that handovers are properly coordinated, reducing handover failure probability while maintaining the benefits of small cell deployment.
2Reliability
If dual connectivity architecture is implemented to improve mobility performance, then service continuity is improved, but data forwarding efficiency deteriorates due to indirect forwarding paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic data forwarding paths that adapt to handover scenarios. During inter-MeNB handover, the system dynamically switches from indirect forwarding (through source MeNB) to direct forwarding (between target MeNB and SeNB) when X2 interface availability is confirmed. This dynamic adjustment reduces forwarding delay while maintaining service continuity through dual connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the forwarding address parameter based on handover state and X2 interface availability. When X2 interface is available, the forwarding address is set to enable direct forwarding; when unavailable, it defaults to indirect forwarding through source MeNB. This parameter change optimizes data forwarding efficiency without compromising service continuity.
3Loss of time
If X2 interface checking is performed to enable direct data forwarding, then data forwarding efficiency is improved, but signaling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checking of X2 interface availability during the handover preparation phase, before actual data forwarding begins. The target MeNB checks whether X2 interface exists with the SeNB and determines the forwarding path in advance. This preliminary action enables direct forwarding to be established without complex runtime signaling, reducing both delay and signaling complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in the present invention are a data transmission method and device. In an embodiment of the present invention, in a condition in which a first node acquires whether an X2 interface is present between the first node and a second node, the first node directly transmits a forwarding address thereof to the second node, to address a problem in the related art regarding how to optimize data forwarding in a scenario of double connection switching, thereby improving flexibility and applicability of the data forwarding.