NCAP Multi-Operator Control for Flexible UE Connectivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 5G networks limit UE connectivity to specific network operators, restricting flexibility and accessibility in network configurations, particularly with the introduction of Network Controlled Access Points (NCAPs) installed by subscribers.

Innovation Solution

A communication device (NCAP) equipped with multiple communication units and a control unit that facilitates connections with both network operator networks and local area networks, allowing it to accommodate various types of UEs under the control of one or more mobile communication networks, including support for dual connectivity and Massive MIMO.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If UE connectivity is limited to specific network operators in 5G networks, then network control and management is simplified, but network flexibility and accessibility are restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoidnetwork control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the network control function by introducing a dedicated control unit within the communication device that independently manages multiple mobile communication networks. This segmentation allows the device to handle different network operators separately, maintaining simplified control for each operator while enabling flexible connectivity across multiple networks simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The communication device is designed with universal functionality to operate under multiple mobile communication networks. The control unit enables the device to accommodate terminals from different network operators, making the device multi-functional in terms of network compatibility while maintaining organized control through the dedicated control unit.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If NCAP is installed by subscribers in local places, then network deployment flexibility is enhanced, but network security and control management may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment flexibilityVSAvoidnetwork control reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the locally deployed communication device and multiple network operators. This intermediary maintains reliable control by managing connections to multiple networks, ensuring that local deployment does not compromise network control reliability. The control unit acts as a mediator that preserves security and control while enabling flexible local installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple communication networks are integrated in one device, then network connectivity options increase, but device complexity and processing load increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnectivity optionsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple communication network interfaces and their control functions into a single integrated communication device. The control unit combines the management of multiple networks within one device, providing diverse connectivity options while consolidating complexity rather than multiplying it across separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication device achieves multi-functionality by integrating support for multiple mobile communication networks within a single device architecture. This universal design provides various connectivity options without requiring separate specialized devices for each network, thereby reducing overall system complexity.

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

Data Source

PatentEP4665083A1Communication device, wireless base station, and communication method
Publication Date: 2025.12.17 NTT DOCOMO INC
  • EP4665083A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4665083A1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP4665083A1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A communication device performs a communication with a first communication network and a second communication network, and a radio communication with a terminal; and performs a specific operation as a radio base station that accommodates the terminal under the control of at least any one of a specific mobile communication network including the first communication network and another mobile communication network other than the specific mobile communication network.