Random Access Ciphering for RRC Inactive State Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in wireless communication systems is to efficiently manage the increased number of user equipments and data transmission while minimizing latency and optimizing resource utilization, particularly in transitioning between RRC INACTIVE and RRC CONNECTED states.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for performing a random access procedure in wireless communication systems, where a user equipment generates data in the RRC INACTIVE state, triggers a first random access procedure, and transitions to the RRC CONNECTED state based on contention resolution success, applying ciphering to RRC messages as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the UE transmits RRC message without ciphering in the first RA procedure, then the transmission is faster and latency is reduced, but the security is compromised and decoding problems may occur in the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic ciphering application based on the state of the random access procedure. Ciphering is conditionally applied - not applied during the first RA procedure's contention resolution phase to minimize latency, but applied when transitioning to the second RA procedure or when contention resolution succeeds. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt security measures to the current procedural stage, resolving the contradiction between speed and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the ciphering parameter (whether to apply ciphering) based on the procedural context. The decision to apply ciphering is not fixed but varies depending on whether the UE is in the first RA procedure or has transitioned to the second RA procedure. This parameter change allows optimization of both latency (by not ciphering initially) and security (by ciphering when appropriate).
2Reliability
If the UE applies ciphering to the RRC message, then the security is improved, but the processing complexity increases and may cause decoding problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by establishing the first RA procedure without ciphering, allowing the network to decode the initial message successfully. This preliminary unciphered transmission sets up the connection before applying ciphering in subsequent procedures. This preliminary action reduces processing complexity while maintaining security for critical communications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the random access procedure into two distinct phases: the first RA procedure without ciphering for initial contact and contention resolution, and the second RA procedure with ciphering for secure communication. This segmentation allows each phase to be optimized independently - the first for speed and simplicity, the second for security - thereby reducing overall processing complexity while maintaining security where needed.
3Loss of time
If the UE transitions directly to RRC CONNECTED state, then the latency is reduced, but the security and reliability of data transmission is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic state transition mechanism where the UE can quickly transition to RRC CONNECTED state when conditions permit (reducing latency), but can also initiate a second RA procedure with ciphering when security requirements demand. The system dynamically adjusts the transition path based on whether the first RA procedure's contention resolution succeeds and whether secure communication is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the first RA procedure's contention resolution as an intermediary step that enables fast state transition. When contention resolution succeeds, it acts as a mediator that allows the UE to transition to RRC CONNECTED state without full security setup, reducing latency. When it fails or security is required, it triggers the second RA procedure with ciphering, ensuring transmission reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of performing data transmissions in a Radio Resource Control (RRC) INACTIVE state by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system. Especially, the method includes the steps of generating a first data that can be transmitted in the RRC_INACTIVE state; triggering a first random access (RA) procedure for transmitting the first data in the RRC_INACTIVE state; generating a second data that cannot be transmitted in the RRC_INACTIVE state while the first RA procedure is ongoing; and transmitting a RRC message for transitioning to a RRC CONNECTED state, wherein applying ciphering to the RRC message is determined based on whether the second data being generated after a contention resolution succeeds related to the first RA procedure or not.