Relay Node Configuration Distribution for Cellular Handover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Efficient distribution of configuration information among relay nodes in cellular radio access networks is challenging, particularly in preparing for user equipment handovers between access nodes without redundant signaling.
Innovation Solution
A method where a donor access node receives identification of neighboring access nodes from a relay node via a wireless interface and sends configuration information to those nodes before a user equipment detects them, excluding nodes already detected by other relay nodes or user equipment, to set up communication interfaces bypassing the core network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If configuration information is sent to all detected access nodes, then handover preparation is complete, but redundant signaling occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by sending configuration information to access nodes in advance of actual handover needs. The donor eNB proactively distributes configuration information about the relay node to neighboring access nodes before any user equipment actually needs to hand over, so that when handover is required, the configuration is already in place and no additional signaling is needed at the critical moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by selectively distributing configuration information based on local detection capabilities. Each relay node detects neighboring access nodes in its specific geographic location and reports them to the donor eNB, which then sends configuration information only to those specific neighboring access nodes that actually need it, rather than broadcasting to all nodes in the network.
2Speed
If configuration information is sent in advance, then handover speed improves, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by sending configuration information to access nodes in advance of actual handover needs. The donor eNB proactively distributes configuration information about the relay node to neighboring access nodes before any user equipment actually needs to hand over, so that when handover is required, the configuration is already in place and no additional signaling is needed at the critical moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by sending configuration information to only those access nodes that have detected the relay node and reported it to the donor eNB. This is a selective subset of all possible access nodes, providing just the right amount of configuration distribution without the excess of broadcasting to every node in the network.
3Reliability
If all access nodes receive configuration information, then handover reliability is ensured, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by using the relay node as a mediator in the configuration distribution process. The relay node actively detects neighboring access nodes and reports their identities to the donor eNB, which then uses this information to determine which nodes should receive configuration information. This intermediary detection and reporting mechanism simplifies the overall system by using the relay node's local knowledge rather than requiring complex centralized discovery protocols.
4Loss of energy
If configuration information is distributed selectively, then signaling overhead is reduced, but some nodes may lack necessary configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by establishing a two-way communication mechanism where relay nodes detect and report neighboring access nodes to the donor eNB, and the donor eNB uses this feedback information to make intelligent decisions about configuration distribution. The system continuously adapts based on the detected network topology and actual neighboring relationships, ensuring configuration information reaches the right nodes without waste.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, including receiving, at a donor access node from a relay node associated with the donor access node, an identification of one or more other access nodes detected at the relay node and sending configuration information about said relay node from said donor access node to at least one of said one or more other access nodes in advance of an indication that a user equipment associated with the relay node has detected said at least one other access node, without at the same time sending said configuration information to at least one further access node that is detected by one or more other relay nodes or user equipments associated with the donor access node but not detected by said relay node. Wherein said configuration information includes information for setting up a communication with the relay node other than via a core network associated with the donor access node.