Serving Cell Switching and Bearer Release in 5G Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G networks, existing mechanisms do not allow for simultaneous switching of a serving cell and release of a bearer, which hampers signaling transmission efficiency and resource management.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for switching a serving cell by transmitting a secondary node modification required message from a secondary node to a master node, enabling the master node to switch the serving cell and release the bearer, with confirmation messages ensuring efficient signaling and resource utilization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If existing mechanisms are used for serving cell switching, then the serving cell can be switched, but the bearer cannot be released simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignaling transmission efficiencyVSAvoidoperation constraint
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the serving cell switching operation and bearer release operation into a single unified procedure. The master node processes both operations simultaneously based on the secondary node modification required message, eliminating the need for separate sequential operations and thereby improving signaling transmission efficiency while reducing operational constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If serving cell switching and bearer release are performed separately, then each operation can be executed, but signaling resources are wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation completionVSAvoidsignaling resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the serving cell switching and bearer release into a single integrated procedure initiated by the secondary node modification required message. This combined approach ensures both operations are completed reliably while minimizing signaling resource consumption by avoiding duplicate messaging and processing overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The master node prepares and executes both the serving cell switching and bearer release operations in advance based on the received modification required message, rather than performing them sequentially after separate signaling exchanges. This preliminary combined action reduces overall signaling resource usage while maintaining operational reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11700552B2Method and device for switching a serving cell and method and device supporting on-demand system information message
Publication Date: 2023.07.11 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US11700552B2 patent drawing
  • US11700552B2 patent drawing
  • US11700552B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. The disclosure provides a method and device for switching a serving cell.