RRC Message Segmentation for PDCP Size Constraints

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Solution Overview

Problem

In next-generation mobile communication systems, Radio Resource Control (RRC) messages can exceed the maximum processing size supported by the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, leading to data processing failures.

Innovation Solution

A method is proposed to segment and reassemble RRC messages or user layer data using a new indicator, implemented by the RRC, PDCP, Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), or a newly defined layer, based on a 1-bit or 2-bit indicator, to manage data sizes exceeding the PDCP limit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If RRC message size is increased to include beam-related configuration information and multiple function configurations, then the capability and functionality of the eNB is improved, but the message size exceeds the maximum processing size supported by the PDCP layer device

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveeNB functionalityVSAvoidRRC message size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The RRC message is divided into multiple segments, each fitting within the PDCP layer's maximum processing size limit. The segmentation is achieved by introducing a segmentation indicator that identifies different parts of the original message, allowing the PDCP layer to process each segment separately while maintaining the完整性 of the overall message structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If RRC message size is increased to support more functions and beam configurations, then the service capability is improved, but the PDCP layer device cannot process the data when it exceeds the maximum size limit

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice capabilityVSAvoiddata processing reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The message is segmented into multiple processable units with segmentation indicators that ensure reliable reconstruction. This approach maintains data processing reliability by ensuring each segment conforms to PDCP layer limits while preserving the ability to recover the complete original message through reassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A segmentation indicator acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the large RRC message and the PDCP layer's processing constraints. This indicator enables the PDCP layer to handle segmented data correctly without losing information about the original message structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If segmentation is implemented to handle large RRC messages, then data transmission compatibility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for segmentation and reassembly operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission compatibilityVSAvoidsegmentation processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The segmentation mechanism is designed with minimal overhead by using compact segmentation indicators. The reassembly process leverages the structured nature of RRC messages and the information contained in the segmentation indicators to efficiently reconstruct the original message, reducing the overall complexity burden.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The segmentation and reassembly process is designed to be self-contained within the existing protocol stack, utilizing resources and mechanisms already present in the system. The segmentation indicators carry sufficient information for automatic reassembly without requiring additional complex processing or external assistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3895468B1Method and apparatus for segmenting radio resource control message in next-generation mobile communication system
Publication Date: 2025.08.13 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3895468B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3895468B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3895468B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a pre-5th-Generation (5G) or 5G communication system to be provided for supporting higher data rates Beyond 4th-Generation (4G) communication system such as Long Term Evolution (LTE). The present disclosure relates to a method of segmenting data by a transmitting side in a mobile communication system. The method includes: determining whether a size of a RRC (radio resource control) message exceeds a maximum PDCP (packet data convergence protocol) SDU (service data unit) size; when the size of the RRC message exceeds the maximum PDCP SDU size, performing a segmentation of the RRC message into a plurality of segments in a RRC layer; and transmitting, to a base station (BS), the plurality of segments of the RRC message.