SCG Split Bearer Configuration for 5G-LTE Interworking

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Solution Overview

Problem

The evolution from 4G to 5G wireless communication systems requires a method to prevent user equipment (UE) from accessing 5G base stations, establish a horizontal interface between LTE and 5G base stations, and ensure 5G base stations can function as secondary base stations, while setting up a split bearer for efficient data transmission.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the configuration of a Secondary Cell Group (SCG) split bearer, where a primary base station transmits a secondary base station addition request message carrying SCG split bearer information, and negotiates bearer quality requirements, including QoS parameters and aggregation rates, to establish a split bearer on the secondary base station, ensuring proper data transmission and network utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If UE is allowed to access 5G base station directly, then 5G terminal can utilize advanced features, but network complexity increases and core network cannot be reused effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improve5G terminal advanced features utilizationVSAvoidnetwork complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an LTE base station as an intermediary between the 5G base station and the core network. The 5G terminal connects to the 5G base station for advanced features, while the LTE base station mediates the connection to the existing 4G core network, avoiding direct 5G core network integration and reducing overall network complexity during transition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the network into distinct functional layers: the 5G base station handles advanced terminal features and radio access, while the LTE base station handles core network connectivity. This segmentation allows 5G capabilities to be added without replacing the entire core network infrastructure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If 5G base station serves as secondary base station with split bearer, then data transmission efficiency improves, but bearer configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission efficiencyVSAvoidbearer configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the data transmission path into multiple bearers: a default bearer handled by the LTE base station and dedicated bearers handled by the 5G base station. This segmentation allows efficient data transmission through specialized paths while managing complexity through clear separation of functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The LTE base station acts as a mediator that coordinates the split bearer configuration between the 5G base station and the core network. It manages the interaction and information exchange required for split bearer operation, simplifying the overall configuration process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If horizontal interface is established between LTE and 5G base stations, then network flexibility improves, but interface management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoidinterface management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a horizontal interface (X2 interface) between LTE and 5G base stations that provides multiple functions: bearer management, data forwarding, and coordination. This universal interface reduces the need for multiple specialized interfaces, managing complexity while providing network flexibility

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

Data Source

PatentUS11589262B2Method and apparatus for data transmission in wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2023.02.21 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11589262B2 patent drawing
  • US11589262B2 patent drawing
  • US11589262B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pre-5th-Generation (5G) or 5G communication system is provided for supporting higher data rates beyond 4th-Generation (4G) communication system such as long term evolution (LTE). The method for operating a primary base station in a wireless communication system is provided. The method includes transmitting, to a secondary base station, an addition request message. The addition request message carries information of a secondary cell group (SCG) split bearer. The method further includes receiving, from the secondary base station, a response message of the addition request message.