MBMS Counting via Dedicated Path and RACH for Signaling Reduction

The patent implements probabilistic counting where UEs are selected with a certain probability (e.g., 1/N where N is the number of UEs) to respond to MBMS counting requests. This partial action approach obtains statistically accurate service user count while significantly reducing network signaling overhead compared to requesting responses from all UEs.

The patent segments the carrier functionality by implementing a standalone MBMS carrier that operates purely for downlink MBMS service transmission (achieving 100% resource allocation for MBMS), while maintaining separate primary carriers that handle uplink communications. This segmentation allows the MBMS-optimized carrier to focus exclusively on broadcast/multicast services without uplink overhead, while other carriers maintain full bidirectional capabilities.

The patent implements a universal MBMS carrier framework where standalone MBMS carriers can be shared across multiple networks and operators. These carriers provide multi-functional support for both broadcast and multicast services across different network infrastructures, enabling wide-area TV services and stadium-related services to be accessible by UEs regardless of their home network subscription, thereby reducing per-network coordination complexity through standardized shared resources.