MBMS Group Communication via Session Identity Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LTE systems lack a specific solution for group communication based on the Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) network architecture, which is essential for transitioning from 2/3G networks to LTE without compromising end-to-end delay requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enable group communication by identifying and forwarding session start requests with group identities within the MBMS network architecture, allowing radio access network devices to allocate air interface identities for group communication sessions without modifying the existing MBMS network architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the existing MBMS network architecture is reused for group communication, then network complexity is reduced and smooth transition from 2/3G to LTE is enabled, but the end-to-end delay requirement of 300 ms or less cannot be satisfied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the session start request handling process by identifying different request types (group communication vs. MBMS communication) and routing them through different paths. The MBMS network device checks whether the request carries a group identity, and if so, forwards it to the radio access network device for air interface identity allocation, otherwise handles it as standard MBMS session. This segmentation enables the system to meet delay requirements for group communication while maintaining the existing MBMS architecture for other services.
2Loss of time
If the MBMS network architecture is modified to satisfy delay requirements, then end-to-end delay of 300 ms or less can be achieved, but network architecture complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the MBMS network device to automatically identify and handle group communication session start requests by checking for the presence of group identity in the request message. The system self-adapts by forwarding appropriate requests to the radio access network device for air interface identity allocation, without requiring external configuration or manual intervention. This self-service mechanism resolves the delay issue while maintaining architectural simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If group communication functionality is added to the MBMS network architecture, then group communication capability is enabled, but the existing MBMS session management process becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary checking mechanism at the MBMS network device that identifies group communication requests by detecting the presence of group identity in the session start request message. This intermediary function acts as a mediator between the existing MBMS session management process and the new group communication requirements, forwarding appropriate requests to the radio access network device for air interface identity allocation. This approach adds group communication capability while maintaining the reliability of the existing MBMS session management for non-group communications.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a group communication method, device and system. An MBMS network side method comprises: receiving a session start request message sent by a mobility management device of an MBMS network; judging whether the session start request message carries a group identifier of a communication group in which a session requested by the session start request message is located; and if the session start request message carries the group identifier, forwarding the session start request message to an access network device, so that the access network device allocates an air interface identifier to the session requested by the session start request message, thereby conducting group communication. In the embodiments of the present application, a session start message transferred by an MBMS network side carries a group identifier, thus realizing group communication based on an MBMS network.