Radio Bearer Management for Multi-Connectivity Coverage Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
The sub-terahertz band's strong linearity and signal attenuation pose challenges for communication systems, requiring advanced technologies like large-scale antenna arrays and multi-radio multi-connectivity to manage radio bearers effectively, especially in scenarios with frequent uplink coverage losses.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for managing radio bearers in multi-radio multi-connectivity systems, involving bearer switching rules to switch between different radio bearers based on uplink coverage loss, utilizing a split bearer structure that can temporarily suspend one data radio bearer and reconfigure power allocation, and perform bearer recovery procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-radio multi-connectivity is used to handle sub-terahertz band communication, then communication capacity is improved, but uplink coverage loss occurs more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of radio bearers dynamically based on uplink coverage conditions. When uplink coverage loss is detected in the second SN, the system switches from the first DRB to the second DRB, adjusting transmission parameters to maintain reliable communication despite the challenging sub-terahertz band characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic bearer management where the terminal can switch between different data radio bearers (first DRB and second DRB) based on real-time uplink coverage conditions. This dynamic switching mechanism allows the system to adapt to changing channel conditions in the sub-terahertz band, maintaining both high capacity and reliability.
2Reliability
If bearer switching is performed frequently to handle coverage loss, then communication reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the terminal autonomously monitors uplink coverage conditions and performs bearer switching decisions without requiring complex network coordination. The terminal independently identifies coverage loss, selects appropriate bearers based on pre-configured rules, and executes switching, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple data radio bearers (first DRB and second DRB) with different characteristics before communication begins. When coverage loss occurs, the terminal can immediately switch to the pre-configured second DRB without complex real-time decision-making, reducing the complexity of frequent switching operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If split bearer structure is used for flexible switching, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into multiple independent data radio bearers (first DRB and second DRB), each with distinct characteristics and termination points. This segmentation allows flexible switching between bearers to adapt to different channel conditions while keeping each bearer's configuration relatively simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal bearer management mechanism that can handle multiple scenarios (uplink coverage loss, downlink coverage loss, different frequency bands) using the same switching framework. The second DRB can serve multiple purposes including as a fallback for uplink coverage loss and as a primary bearer for downlink coverage loss, reducing the need for specialized configurations for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are radio bearer management method and apparatus for multi-radio multi-connectivity. A method of a terminal may comprise: transmitting UP data to at least one node among an MN or SN through a first DRB; and in response to identifying a UL coverage loss in the second SN, determining switching from the first DRB to a second DRB based on a bearer switching rule.