Measurement Configuration in NR-DC via Segmented Node Roles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems lack a standardized solution for measurement configuration and reporting in NR-DC, where both the master node (MN) and secondary node (SN) can configure UE measurements, and there is no clear procedure for correctly reporting measurements in NR-DC, leading to complexity and ambiguity in measurement configuration and coordination.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced where measurement configurations can be generated by either the MN, SN, or Central Unit (CU) in the form of a specified NR measurement configuration information element (IE), encapsulated in defined fields within RRC messages, allowing flexibility in configuration and clear indication of measurement reporting through associated Signaling Radio Bearers (SRBs), thus decoupling configuration from specific nodes and enabling inter-node message transfer for accurate reporting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If centralized measurement configuration (MN only) is used, then coordination is simplified, but measurement speed and node autonomy are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoordination complexityVSAvoidmeasurement speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The measurement configuration function is segmented between MN and SN, with each node capable of independently configuring measurements according to its own capabilities and requirements. This segmentation allows SN to perform measurements directly without MN intervention, reducing coordination complexity while maintaining measurement speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Both MN and SN are equipped with universal measurement configuration capabilities, allowing either node to independently perform measurement configuration and reporting. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling distributed autonomy (improving speed) while maintaining standardized procedures (controlling complexity).

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Speed

If decentralized measurement configuration (SN only) is used, then measurement speed increases, but coordination and control complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement speedVSAvoidcoordination complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A standardized feedback mechanism is established where SN reports measurement configurations and results to MN, and MN provides feedback on configuration validity. This feedback loop allows SN to operate autonomously at high speed while MN maintains overall coordination control, resolving the complexity-speed contradiction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the control parameter from centralized authority to distributed capability, allowing both MN and SN to configure measurements independently. This parameter change enables high-speed decentralized measurement while standardized reporting procedures control coordination complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If both MN and SN configure measurements, then measurement flexibility and node autonomy improve, but configuration ambiguity and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement flexibilityVSAvoidconfiguration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Measurement configuration is segmented into distinct functional areas: MN handles inter-node coordination and overall policy, while SN handles local measurement execution. This segmentation provides flexibility in measurement selection while reducing configuration ambiguity through clear role division.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Standardized measurement reporting procedures act as intermediaries between MN and SN, providing clear rules for configuration exchange and validation. This intermediary mechanism enables both nodes to configure measurements independently (improving flexibility) while the standardized reporting protocol prevents ambiguity (controlling complexity).

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If measurement reporting goes through MN only, then control is centralized, but reporting delay and backhaul congestion impact increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol structureVSAvoidreporting delay

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Measurement reporting is segmented into direct reporting (SN to UE for local measurements) and indirect reporting (through MN for coordinated measurements). This segmentation enables fast local reporting while maintaining centralized control for measurements requiring MN involvement, resolving the delay-control contradiction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

SRB3 serves as an intermediary direct communication channel between SN and UE, bypassing MN for measurement reporting. This intermediary channel enables fast reporting (reducing delay) while MN remains the control intermediary for configuration decisions, maintaining appropriate control structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240276574A1Measurement configuration and reporting in NR-dc

Publication Date: 2024.08.15 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

A method in a communication network that supports dual connectivity includes generating a measurement configuration information element, IE, for measurement of a wireless channel between a user equipment, UE, and a secondary cell group that provides dual connectivity services to the UE, and transmitting the measurement configuration IE to the UE in a radio resource control, RRC, message.