Postponed Path Switch for 5G Handover Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current handover processes in wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G networks using millimeter-wave frequencies, face challenges such as significant delay in data packet delivery and increased instances of 'ping-pong' effects due to rapid channel variations, which can lead to service disruptions and increased signalling overhead.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that postpones the initiation of a path switch during handover until specific conditions are met, such as an empty buffer, congested interface, or a predefined timer expiration, to minimize service disruptions and reduce 'ping-pong' effects by maintaining the connection with the source access node until these conditions are satisfied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If immediate path switch is initiated during handover, then handover speed is improved, but data packet delivery delay increases and service continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing the air interface connection with the target access node and completing path switch preparation before actually switching the data path. This allows the handover decision to be made in advance, and when the path switch is finally executed, the infrastructure is already ready, minimizing actual delivery delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the handover execution timing based on buffer status and channel conditions. Instead of rigid immediate switching, the system flexibly delays path switch execution until buffers are empty or congestion clears, optimizing the balance between handover speed and packet delivery continuity.
2Reliability
If frequent handovers are performed due to rapid channel variations, then connection quality is improved, but signalling overhead increases and ping-pong effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring buffer status, channel conditions, and handover timing. This feedback allows the system to recognize ping-pong patterns and adjust handover decisions, suppressing unnecessary handovers while maintaining connection quality through informed switching based on actual system state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary channel quality assessment and buffer status checking before triggering handovers. This preliminary evaluation prevents premature or unnecessary handovers caused by transient channel variations, reducing ping-pong effects and associated signalling overhead while maintaining reliable connections when truly needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary embodiment provides an apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause said apparatus to determine that a path switch can be initiated during a handover of a user equipment from a first access node to a second access node, determine at least one condition for initiating the path switch, postpone the initiation of the path switch until the at least one condition has been met, and in response to determining that the at least one condition has been met, indicate the initiation of the path switch to the first access node or the second access node.