Measurement Gap Configuration in CU-DU Networks for Faster Handover

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Solution Overview

Problem

In the 5G CU-DU networking architecture, the configuration of measurement gaps between network elements is not efficiently managed, leading to inefficiencies in inter-frequency and inter-system handovers due to lacking coordination processes and parameter decisions.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for measurement gap configuration involving network elements that determine frequency information, calculate gap patterns, and interact through interface signaling to manage gap configurations, including UE notifications and master/secondary node interactions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If measurement gap configuration is not coordinated between network elements in CU-DU architecture, then network elements can operate independently, but measurement efficiency deteriorates and switching delays increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement efficiencyVSAvoidcoordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the CU (Centralized Unit) as an intermediary that coordinates measurement gap configurations between multiple DUs (Distributed Units). The CU receives measurement requirements from UEs, determines appropriate gap patterns, and distributes configuration information to relevant DUs through F1 interface signaling, thereby improving measurement efficiency while managing coordination complexity centrally

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The measurement gap configuration mechanism designed in the patent is applicable to multiple dual-connectivity scenarios (EN-DC, NGEN-DC, NE-DC, NN-DC) and various CU-DU architectures, providing a universal solution that improves measurement efficiency across different network configurations without requiring scenario-specific coordination mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If measurement gap configuration is not coordinated between master node and secondary node, then each node can configure independently, but handover performance deteriorates and switching time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandover performanceVSAvoidswitching time delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary coordination between master node and secondary node by having the master node determine measurement gap patterns before handover execution and notify the secondary node in advance through inter-node signaling. This allows the secondary node to prepare its configuration in advance, improving handover reliability while reducing actual switching time delays

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes feedback mechanisms where measurement results and configuration status are reported between master node, secondary node, and UE. The master node receives measurement reports from UE, evaluates handover conditions, and adjusts measurement gap configurations dynamically based on feedback, thereby improving handover performance while optimizing switching timing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Manufacturing precision

If detailed measurement gap interaction processes are not defined between network elements, then implementation flexibility is maintained, but configuration precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration precisionVSAvoidinteraction process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the measurement gap configuration process into distinct functional stages: UE measurement requirement submission, master node gap pattern determination, inter-node signaling for configuration coordination, and DU configuration execution. Each stage has defined input-output interfaces through F1 and X2/Xn signaling, achieving configuration precision while managing interaction complexity through structured segmentation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3780710B1Measurement interval configuration method and device, storage medium, and electronic device
Publication Date: 2025.11.19 ZTE CORP
  • EP3780710B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3780710B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3780710B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

Provided are a measurement gap configuration method and device, a storage medium, and an electronic device. The method includes: determining, by a first network element, frequency information of a measurement target; and notifying, by the first network element, a second network element of the frequency information through first interface signaling; where the first network element and the second network element are configured on the same node. The problem in the related art of being unable to configure a measurement gap is solved.