Satellite Access Wait Timers for Discontinuous Coverage Signalling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In satellite access networks with discontinuous coverage, there is a spike in signaling when multiple UEs attempt to connect simultaneously upon re-entering coverage, leading to network congestion and inefficient resource allocation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a random wait timer for UEs to initiate signaling after re-entering coverage, based on priority and network configuration, to randomize the signaling process and prevent overload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple UEs attempt to connect simultaneously upon re-entering coverage, then connectivity is restored, but network congestion and signaling overload occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic action principle by introducing a wait timer mechanism that periodically delays signaling from UEs after coverage restoration. Instead of immediate simultaneous connection attempts, UEs are configured to wait for a randomized duration (e.g., 5-30 seconds) before initiating signaling, thereby distributing connection requests over time and preventing network congestion while ensuring eventual connectivity restoration.
2Speed
If immediate signaling is initiated upon coverage return, then connection speed is maximized, but network overload occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring UEs with wait timer parameters before they enter discontinuous coverage. When coverage is restored, UEs that have been waiting in discontinuous coverage for longer durations are prioritized to connect first, while others are delayed using the wait timer. This preliminary configuration enables controlled connection sequencing that balances connection speed with network load management.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If wait timer is implemented to randomize signaling, then network congestion is reduced, but connection delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by applying the wait timer mechanism selectively rather than universally. UEs are categorized based on their discontinuous coverage duration and priority levels: high-priority UEs or those in discontinuous coverage for extended periods may bypass or reduce their wait timer, while standard UEs apply the full wait period. This partial application reduces overall connection delay while still achieving congestion reduction for the majority of UEs.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. Embodiments herein provide a method for randomizing signalling during a discontinuous coverage area in a satellite access apparatus by a UE. The method includes registering the UE to the satellite access apparatus through a satellite access network. Further, the method includes receiving a discontinuous coverage wait range from the satellite access network. Further, the method includes detecting a discontinuous coverage in the satellite access apparatus. Further, the method includes determining a random wait time within the discontinuous coverage wait range. Further, the method includes starting a wait timer configured with the determined random wait time based on the determination, when the UE returns to coverage after being out of coverage on the satellite access apparatus and waiting for the expiry or stop of the wait timer to initiate an access stratum (AS) signalling or a Non-access stratum (NAS) signalling on the satellite access network.