PC5 to Uu Path Switching for Wireless Communication Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently supporting direct communication path switching between PC5 and Uu reference points, particularly in minimizing ProSe service disruption and ensuring quality of service (QoS) during path switching, especially in scenarios involving commercial and public safety services.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method that allows User Equipment (UE) to switch communication paths between PC5 and Uu based on pre-configured or provisioned path switching policies, using the 'make-before-break' mechanism to reduce interruption, and negotiating QoS parameters to ensure consistent service experience during the switch, with the option to share IP addresses for seamless transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct communication path switching between PC5 and Uu is implemented, then service disruption is minimized and QoS is ensured, but system complexity increases due to path switching policies and negotiations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing the Uu path before breaking the PC5 path through the make-before-break mechanism. The target UE prepares the Uu communication path in advance, negotiates QoS parameters beforehand, and only then switches from the PC5 path, ensuring service continuity while managing complexity through structured preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the communication path flexible and adaptable. The system dynamically selects between PC5 and Uu paths based on real-time conditions, with configurable switching policies that allow the network to adapt to changing service requirements, signal levels, and QoS needs, thereby maintaining reliability without rigid complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If path switching from PC5 to Uu is performed, then communication flexibility is improved, but service interruption occurs during the switching process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces service interruption by performing preliminary actions during path switching. The target UE prepares the Uu path in advance, including resource allocation and QoS parameter negotiation, before the actual switch occurs. This make-before-break approach ensures minimal service interruption while maintaining path selection flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action during path switching by ensuring that communication services continue uninterrupted. The make-before-break mechanism keeps the service active on the old PC5 path while the new Uu path is being prepared, and only switches after the Uu path is ready, thus eliminating gaps in service delivery.
3Reliability
If QoS parameters are negotiated during path switching, then service quality is maintained, but switching procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a multi-functional path switch request message that combines multiple operations into a single procedure. The message simultaneously triggers QoS parameter negotiation, Uu path preparation, and path switching execution, thereby maintaining QoS consistency while reducing overall procedure complexity through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple procedures into a unified path switching mechanism. QoS negotiation, resource allocation, and path switching are combined into a single coordinated process initiated by the path switch request message, reducing the number of separate interactions required while ensuring QoS is maintained throughout the transition.
4Reliability
If make-before-break mechanism is used for path switching, then service disruption is minimized, but switching time increases due to preparation overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent balances preliminary action with efficiency by preparing the Uu path in advance through the make-before-break mechanism while optimizing the preparation process. The target UE performs essential setup tasks such as resource allocation and QoS configuration before the switch, but only to the extent necessary to ensure service continuity, thereby minimizing unnecessary delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies skipping by rapidly executing the critical path switching operations once preparation is complete. The actual switch from PC5 to Uu is performed quickly after the Uu path is ready, minimizing the time the system spends in transition and reducing overall switching duration while maintaining service continuity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device are disclosed for supporting a communication path switching from PC5 to Uu. In one embodiment, the method includes a second User Equipment (UE) communicating with a first UE via a PC5 unicast link established between the first UE and the second UE. The method also includes the second UE receiving a path switch request message from the first UE, wherein the path switch request message indicates a path switching to Uu. The method further includes the second UE determining to accept the path switch request message according to at least a Uu signal level. In addition, the method includes the second UE transmitting a path switch accept message to the first UE.