UE Relay Path Switching for Reliable RRC Reconfiguration

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for efficient communication in wireless communication systems supporting UE-to-network relays, particularly in scenarios where a UE transitions from a source Uu link to a relay link.

Innovation Solution

A method involving receiving an RRC reconfiguration message with a path switch indication and responding by transmitting an RRC reconfiguration complete message to initiate a reestablishment procedure or fallback to the source Uu link, utilizing receiving and transmitting circuitries and computer-executable instructions to facilitate the path switch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a UE switches from a source Uu link to a relay link, then communication coverage is extended and relay functionality is enabled, but path switch complexity and procedure overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelay functionalityVSAvoidpath switch procedure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a target relay as an intermediary node between the UE and the network. The relay receives the RRC reconfiguration message from the source base station, processes the path switch indication, and forwards appropriate messages to complete the handover. This intermediary approach enables relay functionality while managing the complexity of path switching through structured message forwarding and processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple path switch options are provided (reconfiguration complete, reestablishment, fallback), then communication reliability is improved, but decision complexity and processing overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidpath switch decision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic path selection where the UE evaluates multiple path switch options (transmitting RRC reconfiguration complete message, initiating reestablishment procedure, or falling back to source Uu link) and selects the most appropriate path based on current communication conditions. This dynamic approach enhances reliability by adapting to changing network conditions while providing structured decision-making frameworks to manage complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the UE monitors the status of path switch operations and can trigger alternative paths if the initial path switch fails. The system provides feedback loops that allow the UE to report status to the network and receive further instructions, ensuring reliable communication while managing decision complexity through structured feedback-based adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If path switch procedures are enhanced with multiple response options, then communication efficiency during transitions is improved, but message overhead and protocol complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoidmessage overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the path switch procedure into distinct phases and message types. The RRC reconfiguration message is divided into specific information elements including path switch indication, and the UE responds with segmented options (reconfiguration complete, reestablishment initiation, or fallback indication). This segmentation improves communication efficiency by structuring information flow while managing message overhead through focused, purpose-specific messages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12557166B2Method and apparatus for path switch in a wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2026.02.17 EDGEWOOD IP
  • US12557166B2 patent drawing
  • US12557166B2 patent drawing
  • US12557166B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatuses for path switch in a wireless communication system. According to some embodiments of the disclosure, a method may include: receiving, at a UE, an RRC reconfiguration message from a BS via a source Uu link, wherein the RRC reconfiguration message includes a path switch indication indicating a switch to a target relay; and in response to the RRC reconfiguration message, transmitting an RRC reconfiguration complete message to the BS via the target relay, initiating a reestablishment procedure over a Uu interface, or falling back to the source Uu link. The method may further include: in response to the RRC reconfiguration message, detaching or maintain the source Uu link.