Layer-2 U2U Relay Reselection Over PC5 for Stable UE Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing UE-to-UE relay communication, particularly in scenarios where traditional mobile voice communication networks are evolving to support high data throughput and multimedia services, necessitating improved methods for establishing and managing Layer-2 U2U relay connections.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for supporting UE-to-UE (U2U) relay communication by enabling a first UE to establish a PC5 connection with a second UE, utilizing a message to trigger a negotiated relay reselection process, including a relay reselection indication and specific link modification operation codes to optimize Layer-2 U2U relay connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional mobile voice communication networks are used, then basic voice communication is supported, but high data throughput and multimedia services cannot be provided

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidservice type limitation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic relay reselection mechanisms where UEs can negotiate and switch between different relay connections based on real-time communication conditions. The Link Modification Request/Accept messages enable dynamic adjustment of relay paths, allowing the network to adapt to varying data throughput requirements and service types by selecting optimal relay nodes differentially

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If relay reselection is implemented without standardized messages, then relay optimization is difficult, but communication efficiency is maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelay management complexityVSAvoidrelay reselection efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces specific parameter changes through standardized message elements: the Relay Reselection Indication IE triggers reselection procedures, while the Link Modification Operation Code IE with specific values (e.g., 0x01 for relay reselection) enables precise control of relay optimization. These parameterized messages transform complex relay management into standardized, efficient operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If Layer-2 U2U relay connections are established, then direct UE-to-UE communication is enabled, but connection management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedirect communication reliabilityVSAvoidconnection management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms through bidirectional Link Modification Request and Accept messages. The initiating UE sends requests with specific operation codes, and the target UE provides feedback through acceptance responses, enabling automated connection management that reduces manual intervention complexity while maintaining reliable Layer-2 U2U relay connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12610412B2Method and apparatus for supporting U2U relay communication via Layer-2 U2U relay in a wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2026.04.21 ASUS TECH LICENSING INC
  • US12610412B2 patent drawing
  • US12610412B2 patent drawing
  • US12610412B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and device for a first User Equipment (UE) are disclosed. In one embodiment, the first UE establishes a PC5 connection with a second UE for supporting a UE-to-UE (U2U) relay communication. The first UE also sends to the second UE a message to trigger a negotiated relay reselection, wherein the message includes a relay reselection indication information element (IE) and a link modification operation code IE set to a specific value.