PDCP Duplication RLC Entity Switching via MAC CE

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G NR IIoT, there is a challenge in dynamically switching Radio Link Control (RLC) entities for PDCP duplication in bearers configured with multiple RLC entities, which affects data transmission reliability and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for user equipment and base stations to receive and transmit switching MAC Control Elements (CEs) that activate or deactivate RLC entities and logical channels associated with PDCP duplication, using specific fields to indicate the bearer and RLC entities or logical channels, allowing dynamic switching based on the received CE.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple RLC entities are configured for PDCP duplication, then data transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between RLC entities based on transmission conditions. The system configures multiple RLC entities but activates only one at a time, switching between them dynamically based on data volume, channel conditions, and quality of service requirements. This dynamic approach maintains reliability through multiple configured entities while managing complexity by activating only what is needed at each moment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters (which RLC entity is active, duplication activation state) based on transmission conditions. By monitoring data volume, channel quality, and QoS parameters, the system adjusts the configuration state and switches between RLC entities accordingly, optimizing the balance between reliability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If dynamic switching of RLC entities is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission efficiencyVSAvoidswitching control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service through automatic switching based on pre-configured criteria. The UE autonomously monitors transmission conditions and switches between RLC entities without requiring continuous network intervention. The network only provides initial configuration and occasional switching commands via MAC CE, reducing the complexity of centralized control while maintaining high productivity through autonomous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The network performs preliminary configuration of multiple RLC entities and their parameters in advance. This pre-configuration includes setting up data volumes, quality thresholds, and association relationships between RLC entities and logical channels. When switching is needed, the system only needs to activate pre-configured entities rather than establishing new connections, improving productivity while reducing switching complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If PDCP duplication is activated, then data transmission reliability is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidtransmission delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies PDCP duplication partially rather than continuously. Instead of duplicating all traffic, the system activates duplication only when transmission reliability requirements demand it, based on monitored conditions such as channel quality and QoS requirements. This partial application reduces the time overhead of duplicate transmissions while maintaining reliability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system periodically evaluates transmission conditions and adjusts duplication activation accordingly. Rather than maintaining duplication continuously, the system monitors channel conditions, data volume, and QoS parameters at regular intervals, activating or deactivating duplication based on current needs. This periodic adjustment reduces time loss from unnecessary duplication while ensuring reliability when conditions require it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS11963257B2User equipment that configures PDCP duplication, and PDCP duplication configuration method thereof, and base station that configures PDCP duplication, and PDCP duplication configuration method thereof
Publication Date: 2024.04.16 SHARP KK
  • US11963257B2 patent drawing
  • US11963257B2 patent drawing
  • US11963257B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided in the present invention are user equipment and a method thereof, and a base station and a method thereof. The method in user equipment comprises: receiving a switching MAC CE from a base station; and activating and/or deactivating an RLC entity and/or a logical channel associated with a bearer that supports the PDCP duplication based on the switching MAC CE.