Uplink Report Storage for NTN Store-and-Forward Connectivity Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems with non-terrestrial network (NTN) nodes operating in store and forward mode, UEs face challenges in transmitting minimization of drive test (MDT) reports and UE assistance information (UAI) due to intermittent connectivity, which can lead to outdated data and reduced utility, especially when moving or roaming, or during handover.
Innovation Solution
UEs store data during NTN node store and forward mode and transmit delayed report data to a terrestrial network node or NTN node when coverage is available, including location and coverage information to enhance network planning and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a UE transmits MDT reports and UAI to an NTN node operating in store and forward mode, then the UE can send data using available NTN coverage, but the data becomes outdated and utility is reduced due to intermittent connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The UE collects and stores location data and coverage information locally during the period when NTN node operates in store and forward mode, before connectivity to core network is available. This preliminary data collection ensures that when connectivity is restored, the most relevant and timely data can be transmitted, resolving the contradiction between being able to transmit data and maintaining data freshness.
2Loss of information
If a UE waits for core network connectivity to transmit report data, then data freshness is maintained, but transmission is delayed and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The UE performs preliminary data collection and storage during store and forward operation, so that when core network connectivity becomes available, the data is ready for immediate transmission. This eliminates the need to wait for connectivity while maintaining data relevance, thus resolving the contradiction between data freshness and transmission efficiency.
3Reliability
If a UE collects location data and coverage information during store and forward mode, then network planning utility is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UE utilizes its existing location tracking and coverage measurement capabilities, which are already part of standard mobile device functionality, to collect additional data during store and forward mode. By repurposing existing multi-functional components rather than adding dedicated hardware, the solution enhances network planning utility while minimizing increases in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Some wireless communication systems include one or more user equipments (UEs) and one or more non-terrestrial network (NTN) nodes (e.g., satellites). In some approaches, a UE may collect report data, such as a minimization of drive test report or UE assistance information. When a NTN node operates in a store and forward mode, the NTN node may have intermittent connectivity with a core network. In some examples of the techniques described herein, a UE may store data collected when the NTN node is operating in the store and forward mode. The UE may transmit delayed report data based on the collected data to a core network when the UE has coverage from a terrestrial network node or a NTN node. For example, the UE may transmit UE location data collected when the NTN node is operating in the store and forward mode.