Private RAN Handover Scanning for Dynamic CBRS Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cellular networks face challenges in efficiently performing handover and cell reselection between macro and private RANs, particularly in the context of CBRS bands, due to dynamic frequency allocation and limited inter-frequency measurement capabilities, which hinder seamless transitions in shared or unlicensed spectra.
Innovation Solution
Implementing intelligent probable channel scanning, progressive scanning, broad bandwidth scanning, dynamic adaptation, and network collaboration to optimize UE scanning for CBRS ARFCNs, allowing efficient handover and cell reselection by prioritizing likely channels and iteratively scanning the spectrum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE scans all CBRS ARFCNs in the shared spectrum, then comprehensive frequency coverage is achieved, but the scanning time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the CBRS frequency spectrum into multiple priority groups or tiers. Instead of scanning all ARFCNs uniformly, the UE first scans high-priority frequencies that are more likely to be allocated, then progressively scans lower-priority frequencies if needed. This segmentation reduces initial scanning time while maintaining the ability to achieve comprehensive coverage when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary scanning of frequently allocated CBRS frequencies before attempting to scan the entire spectrum. By pre-identifying and prioritizing commonly used ARFCNs based on historical data or network configuration, the UE can quickly establish connectivity on probable frequencies without immediately scanning all possible frequencies, thus reducing scanning time while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If the UE performs inter-frequency measurements on licensed spectrum, then network connectivity is maintained, but no capacity remains for scanning CBRS frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of measurement priorities between licensed and CBRS frequencies. The UE can dynamically switch measurement resources based on handover conditions, network instructions, and CBRS frequency availability. When CBRS handover is required, the UE dynamically reallocates measurement capacity from licensed inter-frequency measurements to CBRS frequency scanning, enabling adaptability without sacrificing overall connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the UE's measurement mechanism to serve multiple functions: it can perform inter-frequency measurements on licensed spectrum for general mobility management, and simultaneously or alternatively scan CBRS frequencies for shared spectrum access. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware and processing resources to adaptively serve both licensed and unlicensed spectrum requirements without dedicated separate scanning mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If CBRS frequencies are added to the inter-frequency measurement list, then handover capability is enabled, but the measurement list capacity is exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts CBRS frequency scanning from the traditional inter-frequency measurement list framework. Instead of adding CBRS ARFCNs to the existing limited measurement list, the UE performs dedicated CBRS frequency scanning through separate measurement procedures or physical layer scanning mechanisms. This extraction allows CBRS handover capability without expanding or complicating the licensed spectrum measurement list management.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the UE scans CBRS frequencies dynamically, then handover to current CBRS allocations is enabled, but the dynamic nature of CBRS allocation makes reliable handover difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE reports detected CBRS frequency measurements and signal quality to the network, and the network provides instructions on which CBRS frequencies to prioritize for handover. This closed-loop feedback allows the system to adapt to dynamic CBRS allocations while maintaining reliable handover through coordinated decision-making between the UE and network based on real-time spectrum conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, maintaining a list of ARFCNs within a shared spectrum; receiving a measurement configuration message from a base station that includes at least one ARFCN within the shared spectrum; initiating a scanning process comprising scanning a set of ARFCNs within the shared spectrum resulting in scanned ARFCNs; detecting energy on one or more of the scanned ARFCNs within the shared spectrum; and/or engaging in a handover or cell reselection to the shared spectrum of a private cellular network based on the detecting of the energy. Other embodiments are disclosed.