Multi-RAT Interface Configuration via Geographical Zone Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-RAT terminals cannot simultaneously transmit and receive data across different radio access technologies (RATs) and lack an efficient interface configuration method for network entities from various RATs, limiting their multi-RAT capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method for configuring and updating interfaces between network entities of different RATs involves transmitting and receiving geographical zone coverage lists to establish and manage interfaces with access points, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration based on area overlaps and changes, and requesting handovers when necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a terminal has multi-RAT capability, then the terminal can support both cellular network and wireless LAN, but the terminal is unable to transmit and receive data at the same time through different RATs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network architecture into multiple independent network entities (first RAT network entity and second RAT network entity), each capable of independent operation. This allows the terminal to simultaneously communicate with different RATs through separate network paths, resolving the contradiction between multi-RAT capability and simultaneous data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new interface configuration mechanism as an intermediary between different RAT network entities. This interface enables coordination and data exchange between cellular network and wireless LAN, allowing simultaneous data transmission through different RATs while maintaining network management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an interface is configured between network entities of different RATs, then multi-RAT terminal capability is supported, but the interface configuration and updating process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal interface configuration method that can be applied to different RAT combinations (cellular network and various wireless LAN standards). The interface uses standardized message structures and procedures that work across different RAT types, reducing the complexity of configuring and updating interfaces for multi-RAT terminals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary interface configuration where network entities exchange capability information and establish interface parameters in advance. This preliminary setup includes defining supported RATs, interface characteristics, and operational parameters before actual multi-RAT operation begins, simplifying runtime configuration and updates.
3Ease of manufacture
If geographical zone coverage lists are exchanged for interface configuration, then interface setup becomes systematic, but the configuration process requires multiple message exchanges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple configuration parameters and capability information into single composite messages exchanged between network entities. Instead of separate messages for each parameter, the interface configuration consolidates geographical zone coverage, supported RATs, and interface capabilities into unified message structures, reducing the number of exchanges required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary exchange of geographical zone coverage lists and interface capabilities during initial network setup or registration phases. By completing this information exchange in advance, the system prepares configuration data that can be quickly applied when multi-RAT operation is initiated, reducing actual configuration time during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring an interface with APs of a second radio access technology (RAT) by an entity of a first RAT in a mobile communication system supporting multiple RAT according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: transmitting a first message including a list of entity zones covered by the entity among a plurality of geographical zones; receiving a second message including a list of AP zones covered by the APs of the second RAT among the plurality of geographical zones in response to the first message; and configuring an interface with at least one AP among the APs of the second RAT on the basis of the list of AP zones.