Relay UE Configuration for Remote Device Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication technologies face challenges in providing reliable data transmission between wireless devices and network infrastructure, especially in scenarios where network coverage is limited or unavailable, such as for public safety applications requiring direct device-to-device communication without relying on cellular network infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a ProSe (Proximity Services) UE-to-Network Relay feature, where a relay UE acts as an intermediary between an eNodeB and a remote UE, enabling unicast traffic relay in both uplink and downlink directions, even when the remote UE is out of network coverage, using system information blocks and specific configuration messages to manage relay operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a relay UE is introduced to enable communication for remote UEs outside network coverage, then coverage extension and service continuity are improved, but device complexity and network configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A relay UE is introduced as an intermediary device between the remote UE and the eNodeB. The relay UE establishes a Uu interface connection with the eNodeB and a PC5 interface connection with the remote UE, enabling indirect communication for UEs outside network coverage. This mediator approach extends coverage while maintaining standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay UE performs multiple functions: it acts as a remote UE when connected to the eNodeB via Uu interface, and simultaneously acts as a base station for remote UEs via PC5 interface. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve dual purposes, reducing the need for separate dedicated relay infrastructure.
2Productivity
If relay configuration parameters are broadcast to all UEs, then relay discovery efficiency is improved, but information overhead and network signaling increase
Solution Approach 1:
Relay configuration information is segmented into specific Information Elements (IEs) within System Information Blocks (SIBs). The configuration includes separate parameters for relay UE identification, resource allocation, and operational modes, allowing selective broadcasting of only necessary relay-related information rather than complete system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The eNodeB pre-configures relay parameters and broadcasts them in SIBs before relay operations begin. This preliminary configuration enables relay UEs to self-configure and start operations without requiring real-time negotiation, reducing signaling overhead during actual relay establishment.
3Ease of operation
If the relay UE autonomously determines to act as relay based on configuration parameters, then network control overhead is reduced, but relay selection reliability may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The relay UE dynamically evaluates configuration parameters received from the eNodeB and autonomously determines whether to act as a relay based on current conditions. The UE can transition between operating modes (remote UE, relay UE, or both) based on real-time assessment of configuration parameters and environmental conditions, providing flexible adaptive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where relay UEs report their operational status and performance to the eNodeB. The eNodeB uses this feedback to adjust configuration parameters and provide guidance, ensuring that autonomous relay selection maintains network-wide reliability and coordination.
Data Source
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AI summary
Technology for a relay user equipment (UE) operable to act as a relay between a remote UE and an eNodeB is disclosed. The relay UE can receive, from the eNodeB, a relay configuration message that includes one or more relay configuration parameters. The relay UE can identify relay UE information associated with one or more relay parameters of the relay UE. The relay UE can determine to act as the relay for the remote UE based on the one or more relay configuration parameters and the relay UE information. The relay UE can transmit a discovery message to the remote UE in order to establish a direct connection between the relay UE and the remote UE, wherein the relay UE is configured to relay data from the eNodeB to the remote UE via the direct connection between the relay UE and the remote UE.