RRC Entity Selection for Signaling Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems, particularly in new radio (NR) and 5G technologies, face challenges in efficiently managing radio resource control (RRC) messages due to limitations in link and entity selection, which can lead to delays and inefficiencies in data transmission, especially in dual connectivity scenarios.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a secondary RRC entity at both the user equipment (UE) and the network, along with the ability to select between multiple RRC links for transmitting RRC messages, allows for dynamic routing of signaling messages, reducing delays and improving flexibility in data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a single RRC entity and link are used for RRC message transmission, then device complexity is reduced, but transmission delays increase and efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRRC message transmission efficiencyVSAvoidRRC entity and link management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the RRC functionality by introducing multiple RRC entities (first RRC entity and second RRC entity) at both the network side and UE side. Each RRC entity is associated with a specific RRC link, allowing independent management and selection of communication paths. This segmentation enables parallel RRC message transmission through multiple links, improving transmission efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular entity design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple RRC entities and links are introduced, then transmission flexibility and efficiency improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRRC link selection flexibilityVSAvoidRRC entity configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic RRC link selection mechanisms where the UE can select between first and second RRC links based on current network conditions, message types, and entity availability. The system dynamically configures and activates appropriate RRC entities and links as needed, rather than maintaining all entities in a fixed state. This dynamic approach provides transmission flexibility while managing complexity through on-demand activation and conditional configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of time

If RRC messages are transmitted through the master link only, then entity management is simplified, but transmission delays increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRRC message transmission delayVSAvoidlink selection mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a second RRC link as an intermediary communication path alongside the traditional master link. The second RRC link serves as an alternative route for RRC message transmission, allowing messages to bypass congestion or delays on the master link. The system includes mechanisms to select between the master link and second link based on current conditions, adding minimal complexity while significantly reducing transmission delays through parallel path availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3602908B1Radio resource control (RRC) entity selection for RRC messages
Publication Date: 2022.09.07 QUALCOMM INC
  • EP3602908B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3602908B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3602908B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for radio resource control (RRC) entity selection for RRC messages using communications systems operating according to new radio (NR) technologies. Certain aspects provide a method for wireless communication. The method generally includes selecting an RRC entity from a plurality of RRC entities for communicating a RRC message, wherein the plurality RRC entities cooperate to manage radio resources of the UE. The method also includes selecting a link associated with the RRC entity for communicating the RRC message, and transmitting an uplink signaling transmission using the link to the RRC entity.