5G RRC Message Segmentation for Large Control Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 5G NR systems face inefficiencies in handling large RRC messages, as they exceed the 9000-byte limit, leading to message segmentation challenges that are not optimized for the expanded requirements of Release 16, resulting in potential errors and discarding of messages, particularly affecting classes of SDUs regardless of their type.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a generic method and apparatus for downlink RRC segmentation in 5G NR systems, enabling the assembly and processing of segmented control messages using a 5G gNB and 5G-capable UE, which includes receiving and assembling message segments, identifying segment numbers, and handling link failures, allowing for efficient processing of RRC messages exceeding the 9000-byte limit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If RRC messages are segmented to exceed the 9000-byte PDCP limit, then the message size capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to segmentation and reassembly procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemessage size capabilityVSAvoidsegmentation processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing large RRC messages into multiple segments that fit within the 9000-byte PDCP limit. Each segment is transmitted separately and reassembled at the receiver, enabling support for messages exceeding the original size constraint while maintaining compatibility with existing PDCP protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent embeds segmentation information within the existing PDCP message structure. Segment identifiers, sequence numbers, and reassembly control data are nested within the PDCP protocol layers, allowing the segmentation mechanism to operate transparently within the existing protocol framework without requiring external processing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If generic segmentation methods are used for all SDU classes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to lack of message-type-specific optimization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesegmentation handling simplicityVSAvoidmessage assembly accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal segmentation mechanism that handles all SDU classes through a common segmentation and reassembly procedure. The same PDCP-layer segmentation logic applies regardless of message type, simplifying implementation while maintaining accuracy through standardized segment identification and reassembly protocols that work for all control message classes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter changes within the segmentation protocol to accommodate different message types. By dynamically adjusting segment identification parameters, sequence numbering schemes, and reassembly control flags based on message characteristics, the system maintains precise message reconstruction while using a single generic segmentation framework for all SDU classes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If message segmentation is implemented for large RRC messages, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of information increases due to potential segment loss or assembly errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for expanded UE capabilitiesVSAvoidmessage integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the receiver acknowledges receipt of segments and notifies the transmitter about reassembly status. This feedback loop enables error detection and retransmission of lost or corrupted segments, ensuring message integrity while supporting segmented transmission for expanded capability messages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates error protection measures beforehand in the segmentation process. Checksum fields, sequence numbers, and redundancy information are embedded in each segment during the segmentation phase, providing cushioning against potential data loss or corruption before transmission occurs, thereby protecting message integrity during segmented delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11497002B2Apparatus and methods for resource message segmentation in wireless networks
Publication Date: 2022.11.08 CHARTER COMM OPERATING LLC
  • US11497002B2 patent drawing
  • US11497002B2 patent drawing
  • US11497002B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Apparatus and methods for segmentation of resource/control messages in a wireless system. In one embodiment, the messages being segmented are radio resource control (RRC) messages used in a downlink direction for a 3GPP 5G New Radio (NR) system. In various implementations, RRC segmentation in the downlink direction is enabled in a generic manner when message size exceeds a prescribed limit. A container format is specified, and messaging exchanged between the UE and base station (gNB) indicates (i) the UE's capability for receiving segmented messages, and (ii) data related to the segmented message that the UE can utilize to receive and reassemble the message, as well as a protocol to be followed upon detection of link failure. In one variant, a 4G/4.5G LTE/LTE-A configuration is disclosed.