RAN Node Interface Synchronization for LTE Handover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current LTE/SAE network handover methods are inefficient due to reliance on static configuration of interface information, leading to manual errors, resource wastage, and increased delays, particularly in determining whether an X2 interface is available for handover.

Innovation Solution

Implement an interface information synchronization method that dynamically updates and shares S1 and X2 interface information between RAN nodes, allowing for accurate and quick selection of the proper interface for handover based on available connections, reducing the need for manual configuration and minimizing futile operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If static configuration of interface information is used, then device complexity is reduced, but handover efficiency deteriorates due to manual errors and inability to reflect real-time interface availability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandover efficiencyVSAvoidinterface information management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static configuration approach into a dynamic one by enabling RAN nodes to automatically obtain and update interface information (S1 and X2 interfaces) in real-time. This allows the system to adapt to changing network conditions without manual intervention, thereby improving handover efficiency while managing complexity through automated processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements self-service by enabling RAN nodes to autonomously acquire and maintain interface information without requiring manual configuration. The nodes automatically query and update their interface information databases, eliminating manual errors and reducing the operational complexity associated with static configuration management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If X2 interface handover is attempted without verifying interface availability, then handover speed is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to futile operations when the interface is unavailable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandover success rateVSAvoidhandover delay
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by requiring RAN nodes to verify interface availability before initiating handover operations. The source RAN node checks whether the X2 interface is available and whether the target RAN node supports X2 handover in advance, preventing futile operations and ensuring handover reliability while minimizing delays through efficient pre-checks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If manual configuration of interface information is performed, then ease of operation is reduced, but manufacturing precision is improved through controlled configuration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterface configuration easeVSAvoidinterface information accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables RAN nodes to automatically obtain and maintain accurate interface information through self-service mechanisms. Nodes autonomously query the network to acquire up-to-date interface availability information, eliminating manual configuration efforts while ensuring information accuracy through automated validation and real-time updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10694430B2Synchronization method, communication handover method, radio network and node
Publication Date: 2020.06.23 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US10694430B2 patent drawing
  • US10694430B2 patent drawing
  • US10694430B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A synchronization method, a communication handover method, a radio network, and a RAN node are disclosed. The interface information synchronization method includes determining whether a condition for initiating interface information update is fulfilled. Information about the S1 interface between the RAN node and the core network node, is sent. In addition, or alternatively, information about the X2 interface between the RAN node and the neighboring RAN node is sent to the neighboring RAN node if the condition for initiating interface information update fulfilled.