CN101189899B

CN101189899B - A method of supporting handover in a multi-mode mobile station

Info

Publication number: CN101189899B
Application number: CN2006800151698A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 金龙浩; 郭龙源; 李�真
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2005-05-02
Filing date: 2006-05-02
Publication date: 2013-01-23
Anticipated expiration: 2026-05-02
Also published as: KR20060114606A; CN101189899A; IL186575A; MX2007013246A; KR101084137B1; TW200718126A; TWI367009B; IL186575A0

Abstract

A method of discovering at least one of a homogeneous and a heterogeneous network module to perform handover with in a wireless mobile communication network is disclosed. More specifically, the method includes establishing a network handover module for converging information from at least one network interface module associated with at least one of a homogeneous and a heterogeneous network handover module into a unified presentation and transmitting a broadcast request message from a mobile station (MS) to a source point of attachment (PoA) which transmits the broadcast request message to at least one interface module to identify whether the at least one interface module supports at least one of the homogeneous and the heterogeneous network handover module and a capability of the at least one of the homogeneous and the heterogeneous network handover module. The method further includes initiating a timer for a specified time period when the broadcast request message is transmitted and receiving at least one response message from the at least one interface module via the source PoA prior to expiration of the timer, wherein the response message indicates that the at least one interface module supports at least one of the homogeneous and the heterogeneous network handover module and the capability of the at least one of the homogeneous and the heterogeneous network handover module.

Description

In multi-mode mobile station, support the method for switching

Technical field

The present invention relates to support the method switched especially, relate to the method for in multi-mode mobile station, supporting to switch (handover).Although the present invention is applicable to wide range of application, it is applicable to support the switching of multi-mode mobile station in particular in mobile radio system.

Background technology

Normally, the purpose of the IEEE 802.21 of the International standardization well afoot that independently switches for media between heterogeneous network is to strengthen the facility that the user is used for mobile radio station (MS) equipment by seamless switching and service continuity are provided.Here primary demand comprises MIH function, event trigger (perhaps Event Service), command service (CS) and the information service (IS) that is defined as primary demand.

Mobile radio station (MS) can also be called mobile subscriber station (MSS) or portable terminal, and it is the multi-mode node of supporting at least two interface types.Here, this interface for example can be wired style interface, such as based on 802.3 Ethernet, wireless interface type based on IEEE 802.XX, such as, IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, IEEE 802.16 etc., by cellular standards mechanism, the interface type that defines such as third generation collaborative project (3GPP) and 3GPP2 etc. is admissible.

Fig. 1 is the schematic diagram of the protocol stack structure of multimodal MS.With reference to figure 1, multimodal MS comprises physics (PHY) layer of each pattern and media interviews controls (MAC) layer of each pattern.In addition, the MIH layer is placed on below Internet protocol (IP) layer.

MIH will be limited between IEEE 802 series interfaces, perhaps is limited between 802 series interfaces, such as, by cellular standards mechanism, such as above-mentioned non-802 series interfaces of 3GPP and 3GPP2 definition.In addition, support the mobility of upper-layer protocol, should support the seamless switching service such as Mobile IP and SIP (session initiation protocol).

This MIH function is arranged on below the IP layer.In addition, this MIH function passes through to use the input value from layer 2, such as, the information of trigger event information and other network is convenient to hand-off process.In addition, this MIH function can comprise input value (for example, user's policy and structure), and it can affect switch step.In addition, conventional interface (for example, Mobile IP and SIP) is defined between layer 3 entity and the MIH function.These interfaces provide the information relevant with the management of layer 2 (that is, MAC layers) and mobility with layer 1 (that is, PHY layer).This MIH function use case service (ES) obtains the information of relevant lower floor and network.

Upper management entity (UPE) is arranged in the upper strata, with the state of the various links of monitoring and controlling in MS.In addition, this UPE is used for carrying out switching control function and equipment Management Function.Here, this switching control function and equipment manager be the position independently, perhaps can be included in the upper management entity.

In the present invention, this term " on " and " height " upper strata/top management entity, upper strata/high level etc. be used for to be described interchangeably.

Fig. 2 illustrates the MS with MIH function and has the network of functional entity and host-host protocol.In Fig. 2, dotted line represents service, such as primitive and ES.

As in Fig. 2 illustrated, for faster switching, this network layer use connects in order to promptly rebuild from the information of link layer.This link layer event can be used for the motion of predictive user, and also is used for preparing to switch between portable terminal and network.The trigger that is used for switch step can start from PHY layer and MAC layer.In addition, the information source of this trigger can be local stack or remote stack.

Fig. 3 illustrates the structure of trigger model.Event trigger provides the information relevant with current signal condition, in other the variation of network state, predictable variation, and the variation in PHY layer and MAC layer, and the variation aspect the characteristic of certain network.

This event type can be divided into PHY layer event, MAC layer event, Admin Events, L3 event and application affairs.Basic trigger event is as described below.

When setting up layer 2 connection at the LI(link interface) of appointment, and when other upper strata can send the high level data grouping, the Link_Up notice was transmitted.All layer 2 actions in setting up link-attached process are determined at this time point to be finished.Here, the information source of this Link_Up event is local mac and remote mac.Table 1 illustrates the parameter of Link_Up notice.

[table 1]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacOldAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of previous access router
			MacNewAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of new access router
Networkldentifier	Media are specific	For detection of the network identifier that in subnet, changes

When interrupting layer on the link in appointment 2 connects, and when no longer can send packet on specific link when, the Link_Down notice is transmitted.Here, the information source of this Link_Down event is local mac.Table 2 illustrates the parameter of Link_Down notice.

[table 2]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacOldAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of previous access router
			ReasonCode		The reason of disconnecting link

When expectation (prediction) disconnected 2 connection of (Link_Down) layer within certain time interval when, the Link_Going_Down notice was transmitted.The Link_Going_Down event can be the indication that starts switch step.Here, the information source of this Link_Going_Down event is local mac and remote mac.Table 3 illustrates the parameter of Link_Going_Down notice.

[table 3]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacOldAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of previous access router
			MacNewAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of new access router
TimeInterval	With the time of millisecond note	The time that is used for the Link_Down prediction
			ConfidenceLevel	％	The specific time that is used for the Link_Down prediction
UniqueEventIdentifier		When occuring, uses Event_Rollback

When 2 connection of (Link_Up) layer set up in expectation (prediction) within certain time interval when, the Link_Going_Up notice was transmitted.In addition, in the process of initialization network, when too much time quantum was extended, this notice was used.Here, the information source of this Link_Going_Up event is local mac and remote mac.Table 4 illustrates the parameter of Link_Going_Up notice.

[table 4]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER_TYPE	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacNewAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of new access router
			TimeInterval	With the time of millisecond note	The time that is used for the Link_Down prediction
ConfidenceLevel	％	The specific time that is used for the Link_Down prediction
			UniqueEventIdentifier		When occuring, uses Event_Rollback

The Link_Event_Rollback indication is used with Link_Going_Down.That is to say that its combination Link_Going_Up and Link_Going_Down are in order to can use.More particularly, be established (Link_Up) or disconnect (Link_Down) if no longer expect this link in the time interval of appointment, so, Link_Event_Rollback message is sent to event target.Here, the information source of this Link_Event_Rollback event is local mac and remote mac.Table 5 illustrates the parameter of Link_Event_Rollback indication.

[table 5]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacNewAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of new access router
			UniqueEventIdentifier		When occuring, uses Event_Rollback

Link_Available represents new available link.That is to say that Link_Available represents that new base station or point of contact (PoA) can provide the possibility that is connected to its better link-quality of PoA (it also can be called access point, base station or network entity) than MS.Here, the information source of this Link_Available event is local mac and remote mac.Table 6 illustrates the parameter of Link_Available.

[table 6]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER	The target of event
			MacMobileTerminal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacNewAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of new access router
			MacOldAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of previous access router

Link_Parameters_Change represents when the threshold level of appointment intersects, the variation aspect link parameter.This can comprise link layer parameter, such as, the speed of link, service quality (QoS), error rate (BER) etc.The threshold level that is used for each above-mentioned parameter can be configured to link layer via independent order.Here, the information source of this Link_Parameters_Change event is local mac and remote mac.Table 7 illustrates the parameter of Link_Parameters_Change.

[table 7]

Title	Type	Explanation
			EventSource	EVENT_LAYER	The information source of event
EventDestination	EVENT_LAYER	The target of event
			MacMobileTermmal	MAC Address	The MAC Address of MSS
MacAccessRouter	MAC Address	The MAC Address of access router
			oldValueOfLinkParameter		The value of previous link parameter
oldValueOfLinkParameter		The value of new link parameter

Fig. 4 illustrates the triggering signal when setting up new link owing to the reduction quality of current link.

Information service (IS) provide a kind of frame structure, can find and obtain the network information by it at portable terminal and the MIH function in network in geographic region, so that switch.Here, the addressable any network of this IS.This IS comprises following information element, such as, cost and provider and other visit informations of link-access parameter, security mechanism, neighbours' mapping, location, link.

Conventional technology limiting is used for ES, CS and the IS of MIH.But, when ES, CS and IS based on MIH message between local stack and remote stack, transmit/when receiving, unqualified MIH protocol steps, MIH header and message format.

Summary of the invention

Accordingly, the present invention proposes a kind of method of supporting switching in multi-mode mobile station, it has basically eliminated one or more because the restrictions of correlation technique and the problem that shortcoming causes.

An object of the present invention is to provide a kind of at least one isomorphism and heterogeneous network module method to switch with its execution of in mobile radio networks, finding.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of for find at least one isomorphism and the heterogeneous network module device to switch with its execution at mobile radio networks.

To set forth to a certain extent extra advantage of the present invention, purpose and characteristics in the following description, when consulting following content or can learn from the practice of the present invention, will become apparent for those this areas those skilled in the art to a certain extent.Structure by especially pointing out in the specification of book and claim herein and appended accompanying drawing can realize and obtain purpose of the present invention and other advantage.

In order to realize these purposes and other advantage, with according to purpose of the present invention, as implementing herein and describing widely, a kind of method of in mobile radio networks, being found at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of support media independent handover function MIHF at least by the mobile radio station MS as the multi-mode node of supporting two type of network interface, the method is characterised in that at least one media independent handovers MIH service that the method is carried out simultaneously at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of finding support MIHF and found to be supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module, the method comprises: the MIH_Capability_Discover.request that will comprise MIHF source identifier field and MIHF object identifier field is sent to mixed-media network modules mixed-media from MS, in order to whether support MIHF by same MIH_Capability_Discover.request discovering network module, and find at least one service of being supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module; Only at least one the MIHF network enabled module from the mixed-media network modules mixed-media that has received MIH_Capability_Discover.request receives at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response in response to MIH_Capability_Discover.request at the MS place, wherein this at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response comprises MIHF source identifier field and at least one service list, this MIHF source identifier field has the identifier of the MIHF of MIHF network enabled module, the service list that this at least one service list indicates this MIHF network enabled module to support.

In another aspect of the present invention, a kind of method, comprise: set up a network handover module, be used for to be converted into unified expression from the information of at least one Network Interface Module, at least one of this at least one Network Interface Module and isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module is relevant, and request message is sent to object module from mobile radio station (MS), whether support at least one of isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module with the identification object module, and at least one performance of isomorphism and heterogeneous module, wherein said request message comprises the address of object module.The method further comprises: when request message is transmitted, start the time cycle of a timer appointment; With before timer expiration, receive a response message from object module, wherein this response message represents that object module supports at least one of isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module, and at least one performance of isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module.

Of the present invention aspect another in, a kind of device of the multi-mode node as supporting at least two type of network interface, this device is configured to find at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of support media independent handover function MIHF in mobile radio networks, this device characteristic is to carry out simultaneously at least one media independent handovers MIH service of finding to support at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of MIHF and finding to be supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module by this device, this device comprises: transmitter, and the media independent handovers MIH_Capability_Discover.request that is suitable for comprising MIHF source identifier field and MIHF object identifier field is sent to mixed-media network modules mixed-media from this device; Receiver, be suitable for only at least one MIHF network enabled module reception from the mixed-media network modules mixed-media that has received MIH_Capability_Discover.request in response at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response of MIH_Capability_Discover.request, wherein this at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response comprises MIHF source identifier field and at least one service list, this MIHF source identifier field has the identifier of the MIHF of MIHF network enabled module, the service list that this at least one service list indicates this MIHF network enabled module to support; And controller, be functionally connected to this transmitter and receiver, and use this transmitter and receiver in order to find by same MIH_Capability_Discover.request whether in these a plurality of mixed-media network modules mixed-medias at least one supports MIHF, and find at least one service of being supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module.

Should be understood that above general introduction and following detailed description of the present invention are exemplary and illustrative, and be intended to the desired further instruction that the invention provides.

Description of drawings

This accompanying drawing is included to provide further to be understood the present invention, and is incorporated into and consists of the part of the application's book, and it illustrates embodiments of the invention, and can work to explain the principle of the invention with this specification.In the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 is the schematic diagram of the protocol stack structure of multi-mode MS;

Fig. 2 illustrates the MS with MIH function and has the network of functional entity and host-host protocol;

Fig. 3 illustrates the structure of trigger model;

Fig. 4 illustrates the triggering signal when setting up new link owing to the quality of the reduction of current link;

Fig. 5 illustrates according to the MIH event of one embodiment of the invention and the structure of link event;

Fig. 6 illustrates the structure according to the remote link event of one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 illustrates the structure according to the long-range MIH event of one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 8 illustrates according to the MIH order of one embodiment of the invention and the structure of link command;

Fig. 9 illustrates the structure according to the long-range MIH order of one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 illustrates the structure according to the remote link order of one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 11 illustrates according to the media of the MS of the one embodiment of the invention flow process of information service independently;

Figure 12 illustrates according to one embodiment of the invention relation between MIH function and other protocol layer in protocol stack;

Figure 13 illustrates the message format according to the MIH grouping of one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 14 illustrates the message format according to the MIH grouping of another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 15 illustrates the flow process of one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 16 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 18 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention; With

Figure 20 illustrates for find a schematic diagram with the demonstration of the device of the entity of its execution switching at mobile radio system.

Embodiment

To at length introduce the preferred embodiments of the present invention now, its example illustrates in the accompanying drawings.As possible, identical reference number will be used to indicate identical or similar part in whole accompanying drawing.

In this application, term mobile radio station (MS) can also be called mobile subscriber station (MSS), portable terminal (MT), mobile node (MN), terminal etc.

Fig. 5 illustrates according to the MIH event of one embodiment of the invention and the structure of link event.More particularly, the MIH event comprises the event information that is sent to upper management entity (UPE) or upper strata (perhaps high-rise) from MIH.With respect to the technology of routine, this MIH event is corresponding to the Event triggered signal.This link event is sent to MIH from lower floor's (for example, MAC layer or physical layer).In addition, the primitive that uses in the interface of this link event use and MAC layer or physics (PHY) layer.

Fig. 6 illustrates the structure according to the remote link event of one embodiment of the invention.With reference to figure 6, if an event is triggered to the MIH identical lower floor's stack by the lower floor from local stack, the MIH of local stack transmits this event information to the MIH of remote stack.Alternatively, if event is triggered by the MIH from the lower floor of remote stack to identical remote stack, the MIH of remote stack transmits this event information to the MIH of local stack.

Fig. 7 illustrates the structure according to the long-range MIH event of one embodiment of the invention.In Fig. 7, the MIH of local stack triggers the MIH event, and this event information is sent to the MIH of remote stack.After receiving this event information, the MIH of remote stack sends the event information that receives to upper management entity (UPE) or upper strata.Alternatively, if the MIH of remote stack triggers an event to the MIH of local stack, the MIH of local stack sends this event information on the upper strata of local stack.

Fig. 8 illustrates according to the MIH order of one embodiment of the invention and the structure of link command.This MIH order produces at UPE or upper strata, and sends MIH to order.This link command produces at MIH, and sends lower floor to order.

Fig. 9 illustrates the structure according to the long-range MIH order of one embodiment of the invention.In Fig. 9, the UPE of local stack or upper strata produce long-range MIH order and should long-range MIH order send MIH to.After receiving the MIH order, MIH sends the MIH order of receiving to the MIH of remote stack.Alternatively, this MIH orders the MIH that is sent to remote stack by the upper strata from remote stack, and subsequently, the MIH of remote stack sends the MIH order to the MIH of local stack.

Figure 10 illustrates the structure according to the remote link order of one embodiment of the invention.In Figure 10, the MIH of local stack produces the remote link order and this remote link order is sent to the MIH of remote stack.Then the MIH of remote stack sends the remote link order of receiving to the lower floor of remote stack.Alternatively, the MIH of remote stack sends the remote link order MIH of local stack to, and subsequently, it sends this remote link order to the lower floor of local stack conversely.

Figure 11 illustrates according to the media of the MS of the one embodiment of the invention flow process of information service independently.Primitively, the MIH of MS sends to the MAC of MS with MIH_info.request message, with ask for information services.When receiving this request message, the MAC of MS sends an information request frame to the MAC of base station (BS).Then the MAC of BS sends request to the MIH of BS via MIH_info.indication message by MS.As response, the MIH of BS via MIH_info.response message with media independently information service send to the MAC of BS.Then, the MAC of BS sends information response's frame to the MAC of MS.When receiving this information response frame, the MAC of MS sends to the information service of receiving via MIH_info.confirm message the MIH of MS.

The MIH agreement comprises following three grades.The first order is to find defined by the MIH performance.This grade relates to which entity support MIH function of being found this network by the MIH of the MIH of MS or BS/ access router.Next, MIH registration expression next stage.In this level, the MIH of different entities carries out mutually registration process, in order to start the MIH agreement.At last, MIH message level represents that the MIH of two registrations uses MIH payload and MIH agreement to transmit/receive MIH message.

Figure 12 illustrates according to one embodiment of the invention, the relation in protocol stack between MIH function and other protocol layer.Figure 13 illustrates the message format according to the MIH grouping of one embodiment of the invention.Details as Follows for each field.

" type of message " field (eight bit byte 1) expression is based on the different message of type of message as shown in table 8.

[table 8]

The MIH type of message	The MIH message name	Classification
				1	MIH_Capability_Discover.request	Performance is found
2	MIH_Capability_Discover.response	Performance is found
			3	MIH_Capability_Discover.advertisement	Performance is found
4	MIH_Registration.request	Registration
			5	MIH_Registration.response	Registration
6	MIH_Deregistration.request	Registration
			7	MIH_Deregistration.confirm	Registration
8	MIH_Event_Register.request	Registration
			9	MIH_Event Register.confirm	Registration
10	MIH_Event_Deregister.request	Registration
			1 1	MIH_Event_Deregister.confirm	Registration
12	MIH_Link_Up.indication	Event Service
			1 3	MIH_Link_Down.indication	Event Service
14	MIH_Link_Going_Down.indication	Event Service
			1 5	MIH_Link_Event_Rollback.indication	Event Service
16	MIH_Link_Parameters_Change.indication	Event Service
			17	MIH_Link_Event_Discover.request	Command service
1 8	MIH_Link_Event_Discover.confirm	Command service
			19	MIH_Network_Address--Information.request	Command service
20	MIH_Network_Address_Information.response	Command service
			21	MIH_HandoverPre-notification.request	Command service
22	MIH_Handover_Pre-notification.response	Command service

23+	Reserve	Reserve

" length " field (eight bit byte 1) expression comprises the total length of the whole header of MIH message.The sum of " sequence number " field (eight bit byte 1) expression transmission of messages.Whether Internet protocol (IP) address that " IP " field (1) expression is included in the header is relevant with IPv4 or IPv6 (for example, 0:IPv4,1:IPv6)." F " field (1) expression message whether segmentation (for example, 0: not segmentation, 1: segmentation).

" grading excursion " field (eight bit byte 1) is the complete message of not competent formation if one of expression is divided into groups, and remaining number of data packets need to form complete message." XID (packet ID) " field (eight bit byte 1) is used for each request message and each acknowledge message coupling.Type of hardware (for example, 0000:IEEE802.3 interface, 0001:IEEE 802.11 interfaces of " information source type of hardware " field (4) expression transmitting terminal, 0010:IEEE 802.16 interfaces, the 0011:3GPP interface, 0100:3GPP2 interface, 0101-11111: reservation).

Type of hardware (for example, 0000:IEEE 802.3 interfaces, 0001:IEEE 802.11 interfaces of " target hardware type " field (4) expression receiving terminal, 0010:IEEE 802.16 interfaces, the 0011:3GPP interface, 0100:3GPP2 interface, 0101-11111: reservation)." information source hardware address " field represents the hardware address (for example, layer 2 address) of transmitting terminal." information source IP address " field represents the IP address of receiving terminal." target hardware address " field represents the hardware address (for example, layer 2 address) of transmitting terminal." target ip address " field represents the IP address of receiving terminal." MIH message " comprises the real message with remote events registration, Event Service and the command service of type, length, value (TLV) form.

Figure 14 illustrates the message format according to the MIH grouping of another embodiment of the present invention.Details as Follows for each field of Figure 14.

" protocol version " field represents the version of MIH agreement, and basic value is " 0 * 01 "." MIH service ID " field is the identifier (for example, 1: Event Service of MIH service; 2: command service; 3: information service).The operation that " MIH command code " Field Definition is carried out (for example, 1: request; 2: response; 3: indication)." transaction id " field is used for request message and response message coupling." Fr " field represents that (for example, 1: current grouping is segmented at least one times segmentation markers; 2: current grouping is not segmented)." segmentation No " field list registration is according to the number-of-fragments of grouping." message-length " field represents the total length of whole message.

In addition, " MIH function identifier length (MIHFL) " field represents the length of each " information source/target MIH identifier " field.The MIH of " information source MIH function identifier " field identification transmitting terminal, and can have layer 2 hardware address, perhaps IP-based layer 3 address.Alternatively, this field can be a new MIH address designator.The MIH of " target MIH function identifier " field identification receiving terminal, and can have layer 2 hardware address or IP-based layer 3 address.Alternatively, this field can be new MIH address designator.

" MIH message id " field is identified real MIH message, and shown in the table 9.

[table 9]

No.	The MIH message identifier	The MIH command code	Classification
					1	The MIH event is found	Request, response	Performance is found
2	The MIH event registration	Request, response	Registration
					3	The MIH event is nullified	Request, response	Registration
4	The configuration of MIH link event	Request, response	Event configuration
					5	MIH connects	Indication	Event Service
6	MIH interrupts	Indication	Event Service
				7	The counter-rotating of MIH link event	Indication	Event Service
8	MIH link parameter changes	Indication	Event Service

9	MIH SDU transmits successfully	Indication	Event Service
				10	MIH SDU transmits unsuccessfully	Indication	Event Service

				11	MIH orders discovery	Request, response	Command service
12	The MIH network address information	Request, response	Command service
				13	MIH switches startup	Request, response	Command service
14	MIH switches preparation	Request, response	Command service
				15	The MIH switching is finished	Request, response	Command service

16	The MIH information request	Request	Information service
				17	MIH information response	Response	Information service
18	The MIH performance is found request	Request	The MIH performance is found
				19	The MIH performance is found response	Response	The MIH performance is found
20+	Reserve		Reserve

" MIH message data " field represents the particular data of MIH service.

As discussed above, this MIH packet can have the message format of Figure 13 or Figure 14.

Signal message between MIH can be passed through " discovery of MIH performance ", " registration of MIH remote events ", " service of MIH remote events " and " service of MIH remote command " divides.

In order (for example to make MS, PoA, wireless PoA, broadband wireless access network B S, cellular system BS), network entity (for example, router, external agent) (for example remove to find corresponding entity, MS, PoA, network entity) the MIH performance, the form of this MIH grouping is used to divide diverse ways.

As first method, if being form by Figure 13, MIH grouping represents that MIH_Capability_Discover.request message and MIH_Capability_Discovery.response message can be used for finding the MIH performance of corresponding entity.

MIH_Capability_Discover.request message does not comprise the MIH message payload, and is included in the MIH header, and wherein " type of message " field is set to " 1 ".This message can transmit via layer 2 or layer 3.If sending entity is not known the exact address of receiving entity, broadcast message can be used for finding which entity of this network has this MIH function.Alternatively, even sending entity is known the address of receiving entity, whether have the MIH function if sending entity wants to know receiving entity, this message is sent with clean culture.

If the receiving entity of MIH_Capability_Discovery.request message has the MIH function, so, it can respond by sending MIH_Capability_Discovery.response message.This message does not comprise the MIH message payload yet, and only is included in the MIH header, and wherein " type of message " field is set to " 1 ".Such as the situation in request message, this response message can send via layer 2 or layer 3.Here, be included in destination address in the MIH header and be assigned with the source address that copies with MIH_Capability_Discovery.request message, and source address is assigned with its oneself address.In addition, having the entity of MIH function can be via layer 2 or layer 3 its MIH performance of advertisement periodically.

As second method, if the form of MIH packet by Figure 14 represents that the payload portions of Figure 14 can be removed, and only send the MIH header to corresponding entity, whether have the MIH performance in order to find corresponding entity.After receiving the MIH header, this receiving entity responds by using " source address " field from the header of receiving to send its MIH header.If receiving entity has the MIH performance, such operation is admissible.

As the 3rd method, if the form of MIH packet by Figure 14 represents that MIH message data can be removed, and transmit MIH header and MIH message identifier, whether have the MIH performance in order to find corresponding (reception) entity.Here, MIH_Capability_Discover.request message and MIH_Capability_Discovery.response message can further describe as follows.

With respect to MIH_Capability_Discover.request message, the MIH message identifier can be set to MIH_Capability_Discover.request message, then is transmitted.This message can transmit via layer 2 or layer 3.If sending entity is not known the exact address of receiving entity, broadcast message can be used for finding which entity of this network has this MIH function.Alternatively, even sending entity is known the address of receiving entity, whether have the MIH function if sending entity wants to know receiving entity, this message is sent with clean culture.

If the receiving entity of MIH_Capability_Discovery.request message has the MIH function, so, it can respond by sending MIH_Capability_Discovery.response message.This message can transmit by be included in the parameter of listing in the table 10 in MIH message data.Such as the situation in request message, this response message can send via layer 2 or layer 3., be included in the source address of the MIH_Capability_Discovery.request message that the destination address in the MIH header is assigned with to copy here, and source address is assigned with its oneself address.In addition, having the entity of MIH function can be via layer 2 or layer 3 its MIH performance of advertisement periodically.

[table 10]

As discussed above, can be divided in the signal message between the MIH by " discovery of MIH performance ", " registration of MIH remote events ", " service of MIH remote events " and " service of MIH remote command ".Up to the present, discuss with regard to the message relevant with " discovery of MIH performance ".Next, will discuss the message relevant with " MIH registration ".

MIH_Event_Registration_request message is used by the MIH function, and its expectation is registered in the Event Service that receives in the remote stack.Its details is shown in the table 11.

[table 11]

MIH_Event_Registration.confirm message is used for transmitting the result of MIH_Event_Registration_request message.Its details is shown in the table 12.

[table 12]

MIH_Event_Deregistration.request message is used for cancelling the registration of the Event Service of registering in remote stack.Its details is shown in the table 13.

[table 13]

MIH_Event_Deregistration.request message is used for transmitting the result of MIH_Event_Deregistration.request message.Its details is shown in the table 14.

[table 14]

Next, will provide the discussion relevant with " MIH Event Service ".MlH_Link_Up.indication message is to use to transmit Link_Up to remote stack by MS or PoA.This message represents to have set up new link to remote stack.This message can not only send MS or PoA to from the entity with MIH performance, and can send all entities of supporting the MIH function to.Its details is shown in the table 15.

[table 15]

MIH_Link_Down.indication message is used by MS or PoA, to transmit Link_Up to remote stack.This message represents to have disconnected new link to remote stack.This message can not only send MS or PoA to from the entity with MIH performance, and can send all entities of supporting the MIH function to.Its details is shown in the table 16.

[table 16]

" ReasonCode " from table 16 comprises various values.One of this included value is the value that is labeled as RC_EXPLICIT_DISCONNECT, and its expression is owing to the clear and definite break step that is started by client or network, and this link is disconnected.Another value is marked as RC_PACKET_TIMEOUT, and its expression is not because receive that in the time restriction of appointment this link is disconnected for the affirmation of the packet that transmits.The RC_FAIL_NORESOURCE value representation is because not in order to keep the resource of this connection, this link is disconnected.At last, be labeled as the value representation producer specific reasons code of RC_VENDOR_SPECIFIC.

Next, will provide the discussion relevant with " MIH command service ".At first, have " MIH_Network_Address_Information.request " message, it is transmitted to access point or the BS of current connection, with attempt at MS with another interface network carry out switch before, the new IP address information of the PoA that please look for novelty.After receiving this message, if new PoA has the address information of external agent (FA) or access router, this new PoA sends address information to the current PoA of MS.But if new PoA does not have this address information, this new PoA sends this address information to new FA or new access router.Its details is shown in the table 17.

[table 17]

Secondly, there is " MIH_Network_Address_Information.response " message.This message is to be transmitted in response to " MIH_Network_Address_Information.request " message by new FA or access router, so that corresponding IP address information to be provided.Its details is shown in the table 18.

[table 18]

Figure 15 illustrates the flow process of one embodiment of the invention.More particularly, this MS broadcasting " MIH_Capability_Discover.request/response " message is to find which entity is supported MIH function and/or MIH performance in this network.Term " entity " and " module " run through the application and use interchangeably.In addition, this term " MIH function " and " network handover module " use interchangeably.

Whether this MIH function (network handover module) refers to this entity has and is convenient between the heterogeneous network and/or the function of switching between homogeneous network.As for the entity with MIH performance, this refers to this entity and represents which service list is by the MIH support of this entity.This service list comprises command service (CS), Event Service (ES) and information list (IS).For this entity, it is admissible having more than one service list.

At first, the network handover module is established, being used for will be from least one Network Interface Module (for example, cable broadband interface, WiMAX interface and cellular interface) information be converted into unified expression (presentation), at least one of described at least one Network Interface Module and isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module is relevant.After this, this MS is via layer 2 broadcasting " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message, to determine which entity is supported this MIH function in this network.In addition, this message can also be via layer 3 broadcasting.If this message sends via layer 2, the information in " target hardware address " field of Fig. 13 packet formats can be broadcasted, and the information in " destination address " field can be broadcasted equally simultaneously.Here, new " Ethertype " field has the ability of identification MIH performance, and it can be included in layer 2 message header, with identification MIH message.Alternatively, if this message sends via layer 3, " target ip address " field of Figure 13 packet format can be transmitted., in order to make layer 3 (for example, the IP layer) this message is identified as MIH message here, " protocol type " field can be used as new MIH type and is defined and comprises.

Alternatively, this MS can transmit (clean culture) " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message via layer 3, whether supports MIH function and/or MIH performance to determine specific (perhaps target) entity.Here, isomorphism and/or heterogeneous network are applicatory.In addition, this MS can transmit " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message via layer 2.Here, this request message at first is transmitted to PoA.After this, then this request message is transmitted or relaying is given specific entity, whether supports MIH function and/or MIH performance to determine specific entity.

Secondly, when sending " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message, this MS can start timer (T1).Be sent in this message in the situation of specific target (entity), if the time durations in being arranged on timer is not received " MIH_Capability_Discover.response " message, this MS determines there is not receiving entity.In the situation that this message is broadcasted, if the time durations in being arranged on timer is not received " MIH_CapabiHty_Discover.response " message, this MS determines not support the entity of this MIH function.This PoA broadcasts via layer 2 link of PoA.

If this request message is broadcasted via layer 3, this PoA receives this message, and this message is sent to layer 3 broadcast area (for example, the subnet of appointment, whole zone), and it transmits via layer 3 subsequently.In Figure 15, PoA3 does not have MIH function (MIHF), therefore, can't receive this MIH message.Therefore in addition, PoA3 can't receive " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message, and can't be to this message response, as in step 4 illustrated.

But PoA2 and FA/ access router are supported the MIH function, and it can receive this request message, and responds this request message, send " MIH_Capability_Discover.response " message, shown in step 5.After this, this MS receives the address information that is included in the response message, and determines which entity has this MIH performance.Subsequently, this MS can send the address to this UPE, perhaps can keep this address for switching in the future.

Figure 16 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention.More particularly, Figure 16 is illustrated in the network that is started by PoA1, from the entity of a plurality of entities or module discovery support MIH function.That here, this message is by PoA1 (for example, BS, access point, network entity), rather than this MS broadcasting (startup) with the difference of Figure 15.Except this difference, those of step and Figure 15 are identical.

Figure 17 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention.More particularly, Figure 17 illustrates in the process of the entity of finding to have the MIH functional performance, failed situation.

At first, this MS sends " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message to PoA1, whether supports this function to determine its address information by the known PoA3 of MS.In case transmission, this timer is activated.PoA1 checks the destination address of this message, determine this message PoA3 as target, and this message transmitted (forwardings) to PoA3.Then this message received by PoA3.Here, this MIH packet format uses in the process of transmission MIH message.

In this example, PoA3 does not support MIHF, and therefore, PoA3 can't receive this message, and can't be to this message response.Because before this timer expiration, this MS does not receive this response message, this timer is activated when transmission " MM_Capability_Discover.request " message, and this MS learns that based on the timer of this expiration PoA3 does not support the MIH function.

Figure 18 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention.Opposite with Figure 17, Figure 18 illustrates an example, finds successfully that wherein this has the entity of MIH functional performance.Until PoA3 receives the step of this message and is identical in Figure 17.But because PoA2 supports this MIHF, PoA2 can receive " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message that transmits from this MS.As response, then PoA2 can send " MIH_Capability_Discover.response " message.Here, because before this timer expiration, MS receives response message, this MS can find that PoA2 supports the MIH function.

Figure 19 illustrates the flow process of another embodiment of the present invention.More particularly, this MS determines via layer 3 whether corresponding node (entities/modules) supports the MIH function.

This MS uses the IP address of finding during setting up with corresponding node link to transmit " MIH_Capability_Discover.request " message.At this moment (time of transmission), timer is activated.In case receive this request message, because corresponding node is supported the MIH function, corresponding node can receive this message, and responds by " MIH_Capability_Discover.response " message is sent to this MS.Because this response message was received by MS before this timer expiration, this MS can find corresponding node support MIH function.

Figure 20 illustrates in mobile radio system the schematic diagram of the demonstration of the device that is used for finding carrying out the entity that switches.More particularly, device 200 (for example, MS) comprises transmitter 201, receiver 202 and controller 203.This controller can be used for setting up a network handover module, is used for being converted into from the information of at least one Network Interface Module unified expression, and at least one of described at least one Network Interface Module and isomorphism and heterogeneous network handover module is relevant.This transmitter can be used for transmitting message, such as, broadcast request message to PoA210 (for example, BS, access point, network entity), then it can send the request message of broadcasting at least one entity, whether supports at least one of MIH function and MIH performance to identify at least one entity.Before timer expiration, this receiver 202 can be used for receiving at least one response message via PoA210 (for example, BS, access point, network entity) from least one entity.Here, this response message represents at least one of at least one entity support MIH function and MIH performance.At last, when the request message of this broadcasting was transmitted, this controller 203 can also be used for starting the time cycle of timer appointment.

Apparent for those skilled in the art, do not break away from spirit of the present invention or scope, can carry out in the present invention various modifications and variations.Therefore, this invention is intended to cover it improvement of the present invention and variation that provides within appended claim and its equivalent scope is provided.

Claims

1. in mobile radio networks, support the mobile radio station MS of the multi-mode node of at least two type of network interface to find the method for at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of support media independent handover function MIHF by conduct for one kind, it is characterized in that: the method is carried out at least one media independent handovers MIH service of finding to support at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of MIHF and finding to be supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module simultaneously, and the method comprises:

The MIH_Capability_Discover.request that will comprise MIHF source identifier field and MIHF object identifier field is sent to mixed-media network modules mixed-media from MS, in order to find by same MIH_Capability_Discover.request whether this mixed-media network modules mixed-media supports MIHF, and find at least one service of being supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module;

Only at least one the MIHF network enabled module from the mixed-media network modules mixed-media that has received MIH_Capability_Discover.request receives at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response in response to MIH_Capability_Discover.request at the MS place, wherein this at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response comprises MIHF source identifier field and at least one service list, this MIHF source identifier field has the identifier of the MIHF of MIHF network enabled module, the service list that this at least one service list indicates this MIHF network enabled module to support.

2. according to claim 1 method, wherein the MIHF object identifier field of this MIH_Capability_Discover.request comprises broadcast address.

3. according to claim 1 method, wherein this mixed-media network modules mixed-media comprises any one in base station and the access point.

4. according to claim 1 method, wherein MIHF provides the media independent handovers service by being converted into unified expression from the information of at least one network interface, and this at least one network interface is relevant with in isomorphism and the heterogeneous network handover module at least one.

5. according to claim 1 method, wherein MIHF is configured to use MIH message to provide the media independent handovers service to MS, and this MIH comprises the switching of type between two mixed-media network modules mixed-medias of not considering network interface.

6. according to claim 1 method, wherein which at least one MIH service list this service list indicates supported by MIH network enabled module.

7. according to claim 6 method, wherein this at least one MIH service list comprises command service tabulation, Event Service tabulation and information service tabulation.

8. according to claim 1 method, wherein at least one among this MIH_Capability_Discover.request and this MIH_Capability_Discover.response is layer 2 message or layer 3 message.

9. according to claim 8 method, wherein these layer 2 message are Ethernet message.

10. according to claim 8 method, wherein these layer 3 message are Internet protocol (IP) message.

11. method according to claim 1, wherein this mixed-media network modules mixed-media comprises in cable broadband interface, WiMAX interface and the cellular interface one.

12. device as the multi-mode node of supporting at least two type of network interface, this device is configured to find at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of support media independent handover function MIHF in mobile radio networks, it is characterized in that: carry out simultaneously at least one media independent handovers MIH service of finding to support at least one mixed-media network modules mixed-media of MIHF and finding to be supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module by this device, this device comprises:

Transmitter, the media independent handovers MIH_Capability_Discover.request that is suitable for comprising MIHF source identifier field and MIHF object identifier field is sent to mixed-media network modules mixed-media from this device;

Receiver, be suitable for only at least one MIHF network enabled module reception from the mixed-media network modules mixed-media that has received MIH_Capability_Discover.request in response at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response of MIH_Capability_Discover.request, wherein this at least one MIH_Capability_Discover.response comprises MIHF source identifier field and at least one service list, this MIHF source identifier field has the identifier of the MIHF of MIHF network enabled module, the service list that this at least one service list indicates this MIHF network enabled module to support; And

Controller, be functionally connected to this transmitter and receiver, and use this transmitter and receiver in order to find by same MIH_Capability_Discover.request whether in these a plurality of mixed-media network modules mixed-medias at least one supports MIHF, and find at least one service of being supported by at least one MIHF network enabled module.