Network Restart Signaling via Radio Access Node
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for signaling network restarts in wireless communication networks, particularly in core network nodes, are inefficient and bandwidth-intensive, especially when using IMSI-based paging, which can lead to significant delays and reduced paging capacity, especially with the introduction of Extended Discontinuous Receive (eDRX) cycles.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a radio access network node and wireless device configuration that signals network restarts using a processor and memory to perform signaling and receive operations, allowing for faster and more bandwidth-efficient communication through methods like 'in-band' signaling and super channel techniques, enabling wireless devices to detect network restarts and re-register efficiently without IMSI-based paging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IMSI-based paging is used to signal network restarts, then all wireless devices can be notified, but the paging capacity is significantly reduced and the notification time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new intermediary signaling mechanism (network restart indication signal) that mediates between the core network node and wireless devices. This signal is transmitted through the radio access network node and includes a network restart indication that directly notifies devices of the restart event, bypassing the traditional IMSI-based paging process and reducing notification delay while maintaining reliable delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the notification process into two parts: a general network restart indication signal sent to all devices in the service area, and then individual device re-registration handled separately. This segmentation allows the network restart notification to be broadcast efficiently without the overhead of individual IMSI-based paging for each device.
2Reliability
If IMSI-based paging is used to signal network restarts, then all wireless devices can be notified, but the bandwidth consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new intermediary signaling mechanism (network restart indication signal) that mediates between the core network node and wireless devices. This signal is transmitted through the radio access network node and includes a network restart indication that directly notifies devices of the restart event, bypassing the traditional IMSI-based paging process and reducing notification delay while maintaining reliable delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a broadcast-style network restart indication signal that can be copied and transmitted to multiple devices simultaneously through the radio access network node, rather than individually paging each device with their specific IMSI. This copying approach significantly reduces the total bandwidth consumption while ensuring all devices receive the notification.
3Reliability
If traditional signaling methods are used, then network restarts can be signaled, but the paging capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new intermediary signaling mechanism (network restart indication signal) that mediates between the core network node and wireless devices. This signal is transmitted through the radio access network node and includes a network restart indication that directly notifies devices of the restart event, bypassing the traditional IMSI-based paging process and reducing notification delay while maintaining reliable delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal network restart indication signal that serves multiple functions simultaneously: it notifies all wireless devices of the restart event, maintains paging capacity for other purposes, and enables efficient batch re-registration. This multi-functional signal resolves the contradiction between reliable restart notification and maintaining high paging capacity.
4Reliability
If frequent re-registrations are required, then network restarts are detected, but battery life is reduced due to unnecessary re-registrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network restart indication signal provides clear information to wireless devices about the actual restart state. Devices can detect the network restart through this signal and perform re-registration only when necessary, rather than frequently re-registering due to lack of clear restart indication. This feedback approach ensures reliable restart detection while minimizing unnecessary re-registrations that would consume battery life.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables wireless devices to autonomously detect network restarts through the network restart indication signal and self-manage their re-registration timing. Devices can intelligently determine when re-registration is actually needed based on the restart indication, rather than performing frequent automatic re-registrations. This self-service approach reduces unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining reliable restart detection.
Data Source
AI summary
A radio access network node and methods are described herein for signaling an indication of a network restart to wireless devices within a cellular network. In one embodiment, the radio access network node is operable to: (1) signal, to the wireless devices, an indication that a network restart has occurred in a core network node in a pool of core network nodes in the cellular network; and (2) receive, from at least one of the wireless devices, a re-registration message in response to the signaling of the indication that the network restart has occurred. The wireless device and methods implemented by the same are also described herein.