RAN Initial BWP Configuration for Reduced-Capability UE Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reduced capability NR devices face challenges in accessing 5G networks due to initial BWPs configured for higher capability UEs, which are too wide for their limited bandwidth, leading to inefficiencies in initial access and resource utilization.
Innovation Solution
A Radio Access Network node broadcasts separate initial BWP configurations for UEs with different capabilities, including a narrower BWP specifically tailored for reduced capability devices, enabling them to perform contention-based random access using cell-specific common parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single initial BWP configuration is broadcast for all UEs, then high capability UEs can access the network efficiently, but reduced capability UEs cannot properly access due to bandwidth mismatch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the initial BWP configuration into multiple distinct configurations (first initial BWP and second initial BWP) with different bandwidth parameters. Each configuration is tailored for specific UE capability types, allowing the system to serve both high capability and reduced capability UEs simultaneously through differentiated initial access parameters.
2Reliability
If a narrower BWP is used for reduced capability devices, then bandwidth requirements are met, but resource utilization efficiency decreases compared to wider BWPs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different BWP configurations to different UE capability groups. Reduced capability UEs receive a narrower second initial BWP matched to their bandwidth constraints, while high capability UEs receive a wider first initial BWP for optimal resource utilization. This localized optimization ensures each UE type operates at peak efficiency within its capability boundaries.
Data Source
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AI summary
A RAN node (1) broadcasts a first initial bandwidth part (BWP) configuration via system information, and broadcasts a second initial BWP configuration via the system information or transmits it via radio terminal dedicated signaling. The first initial BWP configuration includes cell-specific common parameters of a first initial BWP of a cell, while the second initial BWP configuration includes cell-specific common parameters of a second initial BWP of the cell. The second initial BWP is not used by a first type of radio terminal, but is used by a second type of radio terminal. The bandwidth of the second initial BWP is equal to or narrower than of the first initial BWP. This allows the second type of radio terminal, which has a limited capability compared to the first type of radio terminal, to use an initial BWP suitable for its capability.