Manual PLMN Selection for User Equipment Beyond CAG-Only Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems do not allow users to manually select a public land mobile network (PLMN) without being restricted to closed access group (CAG) cells, limiting user flexibility and access options.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable user equipment (UE) to determine availability of non-closed access group cells in a PLMN, display PLMN identities, receive user input for selection, and transmit registration requests, allowing access via closed access group cells if permitted, with options to update access indications based on registration responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users are restricted to closed access group (CAG) cells for accessing a public land mobile network (PLMN), then network security and access control are improved, but user flexibility and access options deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts access control based on user selection and registration outcomes. The UE transitions from a static restricted state (only CAG cells) to a dynamic state where access permissions can change based on manual selection and network registration responses, allowing flexibility while maintaining security protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the access control parameter from a fixed restriction (CAG-only) to a variable state where the UE can attempt registration on non-CAG cells. The access permission parameter is modified based on registration accept/reject messages, transforming the rigid access control into an adaptive system
2Reliability
If users are restricted to closed access group (CAG) cells for accessing a PLMN, then access control is improved, but access options and user choice deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system becomes dynamic by allowing users to manually select PLMNs and attempt registrations beyond CAG cells. The system adapts its behavior based on registration outcomes, transforming from a static restricted access model to a dynamic one that responds to user actions and network responses
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where registration accept or reject messages from the network directly influence future access behavior. The UE uses this feedback to determine whether to retain CAG-only restrictions or allow broader access, creating a closed-loop control system that balances security with user choice
3Reliability
If the system automatically restricts access to CAG cells only, then network security is improved, but system complexity and configuration management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The UE performs self-service by automatically managing its own access permissions based on registration outcomes. When a registration is accepted on a non-CAG cell, the UE autonomously updates its configuration to allow broader access, eliminating the need for complex manual configuration management while maintaining security
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprising: determining, by a user equipment, that a non-closed access group cell is available to the user equipment in a public land mobile network, wherein the public land mobile network is identified by a public land mobile network identity and the user equipment is only allowed to access the public land mobile network via one or more closed access group cells; displaying the public land mobile network identity to a user; receiving user input selecting the public land mobile network identity; and transmitting a registration request to the public land mobile network identified by the public land mobile network identity.