Multi-Connectivity QoE Reporting Path Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies lack effective mechanisms for handling upper layer indications and QoE reports in multi-connectivity scenarios, particularly when one path in multi-connectivity cannot be used due to node overload or radio link failure.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves methods and systems that enable a UE Access Stratum operating in multi-connectivity to send upper layer indications and QoE reports to the RAN, even when one path is unavailable, by transmitting these reports to another network node in the multi-connectivity configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If QoE reports are sent only through a single network path in multi-connectivity, then the signaling overhead is reduced, but the reliability of reporting deteriorates when that path becomes unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignaling overheadVSAvoidreporting reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the reporting function by allowing different QoE reports to be sent through different network paths (master node and secondary node). When one path is unavailable, the UE can segment the reporting task and use the alternative path, thus maintaining reliability without significantly increasing overall signaling overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a spatial dimension to reporting by enabling multi-path reporting through different network nodes. Instead of a single-dimensional reporting path, the system now operates in multiple dimensions (different nodes and paths), allowing reports to reach the network through alternative routes when one path fails.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of information

If the UE switches reporting paths when one becomes unavailable, then the completeness of QoE data improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQoE data completenessVSAvoidUE processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple reporting paths and their associated parameters before reporting is needed. The UE is provided with configuration information for both master node and secondary node reporting, including when and how to switch paths. This eliminates the need for complex real-time decision-making during actual reporting operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the network provides configuration information to the UE about available reporting paths and their status. Based on this feedback, the UE can automatically select appropriate paths without complex internal processing, reducing device complexity while maintaining data completeness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Stability of the object's composition

If QoE reporting is paused due to node overload, then the network stability is improved, but the timeliness of QoE data deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork stabilityVSAvoidQoE data timeliness
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the secondary node serves as an alternative reporting path when the master node is overloaded. Instead of pausing all reporting, the system uses the intermediary secondary node to continue receiving QoE reports, thus maintaining both network stability and data timeliness simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes reporting parameters based on network conditions. When the master node is overloaded, the UE changes the reporting destination parameter to the secondary node, or adjusts the reporting frequency and timing parameters. This allows the system to maintain network stability while minimizing delays in QoE data collection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20250039714A1Systems and methods for reporting upper layer indications and quality of experience in multi connectivity
Publication Date: 2025.01.30 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20250039714A1 patent drawing
  • US20250039714A1 patent drawing
  • US20250039714A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method (1000) by a user equipment, UE (412), having multi-connectivity to a plurality of network nodes (410) includes receiving (1002), from at least a first network node (410A) of the plurality of network nodes, a Quality of Experience (QoE) measurement configuration comprising an indication to send an application layer indication and/or QoE report. The UE determines (1004) that the application layer indication and/or QoE report cannot be sent to the network node from which the QoE measurement configuration was received. The UE transmits (1006), to another network node (410B) of the plurality of network nodes, the application layer indication and/or QoE report.