Inter-System Handover Using MOCN PLMN Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular network handover technologies face challenges in seamlessly transitioning user equipment (UE) devices between different service providers' networks, particularly in maintaining continuous connectivity and preventing call drops or data interruptions during inter-system handovers, especially in areas with limited coverage or during emergency calls.
Innovation Solution
The technology enables UE devices to perform inter-system handovers between different cellular networks by identifying and using multi-operator core networks (MOCN) public land mobile network (PLMN) identifiers, allowing for smooth transitions between networks while preventing handovers during active emergency calls, and distinguishing between subscribed and roaming devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If inter-system handover is performed between different service provider networks, then network coverage is extended and service continuity is improved, but call drops or data interruptions may occur during the handover process
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing a target connection with the second network before releasing the source connection. The UE device is configured to establish the target connection first, then release the source connection, ensuring service continuity during inter-system handover between different service provider networks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If handover is performed during active emergency calls, then network flexibility is improved, but regulatory requirements may be violated and call quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting whether an active call is an emergency call before allowing handover. The method includes determining whether the active call is an emergency call, and only allowing handover if it is not an emergency call, thereby preventing regulatory violations and call quality deterioration.
3Measurement precision
If the UE device connects to networks broadcasting MOCN PLMN identifiers, then network identification accuracy is improved, but the complexity of distinguishing between subscribed and roaming devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary approach by introducing a network identifier matching step. The UE device identifies a target network based on broadcasting network identifiers, and the handover is performed to a network that broadcasts an identifier associated with the UE's home service provider, enabling accurate network identification while simplifying device discrimination through standardized identifier matching.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described that includes determining that a user equipment (UE) device connected to a first cellular radio access network is in an area covered by both the first cellular radio access network and a second cellular radio access network. The first cellular radio access network is operated by a first service provider and the second cellular radio access network is operated by a second service provider. The method also includes identifying, at the UE device, that the second cellular radio access network is broadcasting an identifier associated with the first service provider. The method further includes handing over the UE device from the first cellular radio access network to the second cellular radio access network using the identifier associated with the first service provider.