Store-and-Forward Cell Prioritization for NTN Message Reception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems face challenges in efficiently handling store and forward operations in non-terrestrial networks, particularly in managing store and forward assistance information to prioritize network entities for seamless communication.
Innovation Solution
A device is configured to obtain store and forward assistance information, prioritize a second network entity based on this information, and apply cell selection biases to ensure efficient reception of downlink core network messages, suspending or initiating access procedures as needed to complete the communication process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device applies cell selection bias to prioritize the second network entity in store and forward mode, then the reliability of message reception is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional information processing and prioritization logic
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by obtaining store and forward assistance information before attempting to receive downlink messages, and by proactively prioritizing the second network entity based on this information. This advance preparation ensures reliable message reception without adding complexity during the actual message reception process.
2Productivity
If the device suspends AS functionality or initiates random access procedure while waiting for DL NAS message, then the productivity of communication is improved, but the loss of time increases due to suspension and waiting periods
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-service by autonomously suspending AS functionality or initiating random access procedures based on the store and forward assistance information it has obtained. This self-directed action improves communication productivity by ensuring the device is in the appropriate state to receive messages, while the timing is optimized to minimize waiting periods.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device obtains and processes store and forward assistance information from multiple network entities, then the adaptability of the communication system is improved, but the loss of information increases due to potential conflicts or inconsistencies in assistance information
Solution Approach 1:
The first network entity acts as an intermediary by providing store and forward assistance information that helps the device determine the appropriate second network entity for message reception. This intermediary role ensures information consistency by providing a single source of authoritative assistance information, preventing conflicts that would arise from processing multiple sources simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods may be provided for prioritizing neighboring cell(s) during store and forward operation, e.g., in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). One or more network entities (e.g., neighboring cell(s) or satellite(s) may be prioritized during store and forward operation based on at least remaining downlink (DL) non-access stratum (NAS) messages associated with an initiated procedure (e.g., a TAU procedure or an attach procedure) and/or network assistance information. Prioritizing a network entity may include determining whether the network entity is in store and forward mode. The WTRU as part of the prioritization may apply a cell selection bias to measurements associated with the network entity. The WTRU may send messages (e.g., RACH messages) to initiate a connection (e.g., a random access procedure) with the prioritized network entity. The WTRU (e.g., upon completion of the initiated procedure) may initiate neighbor cell measurements and/or mobility to determine the best available cell to continue connection.