LTE WLAN Handover Preparation via Pre-Scanning and Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless device mobility between LTE and WLAN networks is inefficient due to lengthy handover procedures, resulting in unpredictable network behavior and delayed user plane transmission, as the handover process is not adequately controlled by the network, leading to suboptimal load balancing and user experience.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a preparatory access selection method within wireless devices and radio access nodes that includes generating and processing handover prepare messages to select and prepare for access points in WLAN networks, reducing the time for handover by enabling proactive scanning, authentication, and association, allowing for real-time user plane transmission initiation and reevaluation of handover decisions based on shifting radio conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional handover procedures are used between LTE and WLAN networks, then wireless devices can switch networks, but the handover time is lengthy and unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preparatory phase where the wireless device performs scanning, authentication, and association with target WLAN access points before the actual handover is triggered. This preliminary action includes receiving handover prepare messages, performing measurements, and establishing preliminary connections, so that when handover is actually needed, the device can switch networks rapidly without performing these time-consuming operations during the critical handover moment.
2Ease of operation
If wireless devices autonomously select WLAN networks based on signal strength, then connection establishment is simple, but network control and load balancing are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network (eNodeB and WLAN network) provides information to the wireless device about suitable access points, load conditions, and handover recommendations. The device uses this feedback information to make informed access selection decisions rather than purely autonomous choices, enabling the network to maintain control for load balancing while still allowing device participation in the selection process.
3Reliability
If handover procedures are extended to include preparatory scanning and authentication, then handover reliability improves, but procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the handover procedure into distinct phases: a preparatory phase involving scanning, authentication, and association with target access points, and an execution phase where the actual handover occurs. This segmentation allows the complex operations to be performed in advance when time is not critical, while the execution phase remains simple and rapid. The procedure is further divided into measurable steps with specific messages and conditions for transitioning between phases.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to methods, a wireless device, a radio access node and computer programs for improving wireless device mobility between a first radio access network arranged to operate according to a first radio access technology and a second radio access network arranged to operate according to a second radio access technology. In particular, the disclosure relates to handover preparation procedure to improve handover of a wireless device (20) connected to a first radio access network (11) arranged to operate according to a first radio access technology to a second radio access network (12) arranged to operate according to a second radio access technology. The handover preparation procedure includes the sending of a handover prepare message (S47) from an access node (30) of a first radio access network to a connected wireless device (20). The wireless device prepares for handover by means of preparation signaling (S48) to access points of one or more second radio access networks indicated in the handover prepare message. The wireless device (20) informs the access node (30) upon concluding the handover preparation. Actual handover is ordered by means of a handover message (S52).