Shared Radio Node Operator-Specific Tracking Area Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coordinating tracking area plans between multiple cellular network operators using shared radio nodes is challenging due to differences in operator-specific schemes, making it difficult to broadcast a single tracking area code that fits all networks, especially when multiple shared radio nodes are involved.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus where a shared radio node broadcasts system information including network identities and multiple operator-specific tracking area codes, allowing each operator to use their own tracking area codes within their specific plans, with the option of using a predefined mapping scheme to associate these codes, enabling seamless integration and operation across different networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single tracking area code is broadcasted by a shared radio node, then all operators can use the same radio infrastructure, but it becomes difficult to accommodate operator-specific tracking area plans
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking area code space is segmented into operator-specific portions. Each operator is assigned a unique range of tracking area codes (e.g., operator 1 uses TACs 1-100, operator 2 uses TACs 101-200). The shared radio node broadcasts multiple tracking area codes simultaneously, each associated with a specific operator, allowing terminals to identify and use the appropriate TAC for their registered operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The shared radio node is designed to serve multiple operators simultaneously by broadcasting a unified set of system information that includes tracking area codes for all participating operators. This multi-functional approach allows a single radio node to perform the role of multiple operator-specific nodes, eliminating the need for separate infrastructure while maintaining operator-specific tracking area plans.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tracking area codes are broadcasted for different operators, then each operator can maintain their tracking area plans, but the system information becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The operator identification information and tracking area code mapping are extracted as separate, structured elements within the system information broadcast. Instead of embedding complex associations within the tracking area code fields themselves, the system uses dedicated information elements that clearly separate operator identities from their corresponding tracking area codes, making the structure more manageable and easier to process.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mapping mechanism is introduced between the broadcasted tracking area codes and the operators. The system information includes intermediate data structures that associate each tracking area code with its corresponding operator identity, serving as a mediator that allows terminals to resolve the correct operator-TAC relationship without direct complex encoding in the TAC fields themselves.
3Measurement precision
If a shared radio node broadcasts multiple operator-specific tracking area codes, then terminals can be accurately located in their respective networks, but terminals must process and identify the correct code for their network
Solution Approach 1:
Terminals are pre-configured with their registered operator's identity information before attempting to access the shared radio node. When receiving the broadcasted system information containing multiple tracking area codes, the terminal uses its pre-known operator identity to immediately identify and select the corresponding tracking area code without needing to process or analyze all available codes, significantly reducing processing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different operators are assigned tracking area codes with distinct identifying characteristics or patterns (analogous to color coding). For example, each operator's TAC range may have unique properties or be associated with specific broadcast identifiers that allow terminals to quickly recognize and filter the correct TAC for their operator, similar to how colored labels enable rapid identification without detailed examination.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a radio node (RN) shared by operators of separate cellular networks having operator specific tracking area plans. The radio node (RN) broadcasts (1:1) system information with network identities of the cellular networks (PLMN IDs) and multiple operator specific tracking area codes (TACs) valid in respective tracking area plans of the cellular networks, each tracking area code being associated with a corresponding network identity in the system information. Thereby, the operators are enabled to use their own operator specific tracking area codes for their respective operator specific tracking areas that include a cell (100) covered by the radio node.