MBSFN Pointer Mechanism for Seamless Service Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multicast and broadcast services in wireless communication systems face service continuity issues when a user moves from one Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) to another, requiring disconnecting and reconnecting to access the same service, which leads to disruptions and inefficiencies in handoff processes.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating pointers in the data transmission by base stations within MBSFNs to direct User Equipment (UE) to the location of Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) control channels or data in adjacent MBSFNs, allowing seamless handoff without disconnecting and reconnecting, by storing pointers in MBMS control channels or system information blocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional transmission schemes are used when a user moves from one MBSFN to another, then the base station can transmit MBMS data in each cell independently, but service continuity problems occur requiring disconnect and handoff procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the source MBSFN transmit pointer information to the UE in advance before the handoff occurs. The pointer in the MCCH or system information block points to the target MBSFN's MCCH location, enabling the UE to prepare for seamless service continuation without interrupting the current reception.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a pointer as an intermediary element that bridges the source and target MBSFNs. This pointer, stored in the MCCH or system information block of the source MBSFN, provides the UE with the location information of the target MBSFN's MCCH, facilitating smooth transition without direct complex interaction between MBSFNs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a user moves across the boundary of one MBSFN to a new MBSFN, then the UE can access new coverage area, but the handoff process requires stopping reception, disconnecting, searching for service information, and reconnecting
Solution Approach 1:
The source MBSFN provides pointer information to the UE in advance through the MCCH or system information block, pointing to the target MBSFN's MCCH location. This preliminary provision of location information eliminates the time the UE would otherwise spend searching for service information after handoff.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by enabling the UE to maintain MBMS service reception without interruption during handoff. The pointer mechanism allows the UE to continue receiving service data while seamlessly transitioning between MBSFNs, eliminating gaps in service delivery.
3Ease of operation
If conventional handoff procedures are implemented, then the UE can switch between cells, but service disruptions and delays occur during the disconnect and reconnect process
Solution Approach 1:
The source MBSFN transmits pointer information to the UE in advance through the MCCH or system information block, pointing to the target MBSFN's MCCH location. This preliminary information provision enables the UE to perform cell switching without service disruption, as the target location is already known.
Solution Approach 2:
The pointer serves as an intermediary that facilitates seamless cell switching. By providing the target MBSFN's MCCH location through this intermediary element, the UE can switch cells without the disruptions that would otherwise occur during conventional disconnect and reconnect procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing service among a plurality of Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Networks (MBSFNs) that are providing multimedia broadcast services, includes storing a pointer in data to be transmitted by a base station corresponding to a serving of a first MBSFN. The pointer points to either a location of a multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS) control channel or a location of MBMS data in a second MBSFN.