ES2346046T3 - PARTIAL MOBILITY SUPPORT BETWEEN RADIOCOMMUNICATION ACCESS NETWORKS. - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for use in a radio access network of a network of a first operator that has cells that are eligible for use by a unit (30) of user equipment that is in a connection mode and is paid to a network of a second operator, the method comprising: designating as a restricted cell any cell in the network of the first operator for which the network of the second operator has a competing cell; and reject the attempt to use the restricted cell by the user equipment unit that is subscribed to the network of the second operator.

Description

Partial mobility support between networks Radio access

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates to wireless telecommunications, and particularly to track roaming of a mobile user equipment unit (UE).

2. Related technique and other considerations

In a cellular radio system Typically, mobile user equipment units (UEs) are communicate through a radio access network (RAN) with one or more central networks. The equipment units of User (UEs) can be mobile stations such as phones mobile phones (cell phones) and laptops with mobile termination, and therefore can be, for example, portable, pocket, handheld mobile devices, included in computers, or mounted on cars, that communicate voice and / or data with the radio access network.

The radio access network (RAN) covers a geographic area that is divided into cellular areas, serving each cell area a base station. A cell is a geographical area in which the base station equipment of radiocommunications at a base station location Provides radio coverage. Each cell is typically identified through an exclusive identity, which broadcast in the cell. Base stations communicate to through the air interface (for example, radio frequencies) with the User equipment units (UE) within the scope of base stations In the radio access network, several base stations are typically connected (for example, by land lines or microwaves) to a network controller radiocommunications (RNC). The network controller of radiocommunications, which is also sometimes called base station controller (BSC), supervises and coordinates several activities of the various base stations connected to it. Radio network controllers are connected typically to one or more central networks.

An example of a radio access network is the Terrestrial Radio Access Network for Universal Mobile Telecommunications (UMTS) (UTRAN). The UTRAN is a third generation system which in some aspects, is based on technology known as radio access G lobal S ystem for M obile communications (GSM) developed in Europe. The UTRAN is essentially a broadband code division multiple access system (W-CDMA). An initiative known as the Third Generation Association Project (3GPP) is seeking to further evolve the UTRAN.

As those skilled in the art will appreciate, in W-CDMA technology a common frequency band allows simultaneous communication between a user equipment unit (UE) and various base stations. The signals that occupy the common frequency band are discriminated at the receiving station through properties of spread spectrum CDMA waveforms based on the use of a high-speed code, such as a pseudo-noise code (PN). These high-speed PN codes are used to modulate signals transmitted from the base stations to the user equipment units (UEs). Transmitting stations that use different PN codes (or a time-shifted PN code) produce signals that can be demodulated separately at a receiving station. The high speed modulation by PN also allows the receiving station to advantageously generate a signal received from a single transmitting station by combining several propagation paths other than the transmitted signal. Therefore, in the CDMA, it is not necessary for a user equipment unit (UE) to switch frequency when a connection is transferred from one cell to another. As a consequence, a destination cell can support a connection with a user equipment unit (UE) at the same time that the source cell continues to service the connection. Since the user equipment unit (UE) is always communicating through at least one cell during a handover, there is no alteration in the call. From there, the expression "uniform transfer". In contrast to discontinuous handover, uniform handover is a switching operation of the "close before opening"(" make-before-break ") type.

The radio network controller (RNC) controls the UTRAN. In fulfilling its function of control, the RNC manages resources of the UTRAN. Such resources managed by the RNC include (among others) the link power descending (DL) transmitted by the base stations; the uplink interference (UL) perceived by the base stations; and the hardware located in the base stations.

There are several interfaces of interest in the UTRAN To the interface between the network drivers of radiocommunications (RNCs) and the network (s) Central (s) is called the "Iu" interface. To the interface between a radio network controller (RNC) and its Base stations (BSs) is called the "Iub" interface. The interface between the user equipment unit (UE) and the stations base is known as "Air Interface" or "Interface of radiocommunications "or" Uu interface. "In some cases, a Radiocommunication connection involves both an RNC Service  or of Origin (SRNC) as a target or drift RNC (DRNC), the SRNC controlling the radio connection although one or more links from the DRNC being managed by the DRNC radiocommunications of the radiocommunication connection. To one interface between radio network controllers (for example, between a Service RNC [SRNC] and a Drift RNC [DRNC]) It is called the "Iur" interface, and it can be obtained (by example) via a transport link between RNCs.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, with respect to a certain RAN-UE connection, an RNC it can have either the function of a service RNC (SRNC) or the function of a drifting RNC (DRNC). If an RNC is an RNC of service (SRNC), the RNC is in charge of the connection of radiocommunications with the user equipment unit (UE), by example, you have full control of the connection of radiocommunications within the access network of radiocommunications (RAN). A service RNC (SRNC) is connected to the central network. On the other hand, if an RNC is a drifting RNC (DRNC), it supports the RNC service (SRNC) providing radio resources (within Drift RNC-controlled cells (DRNC) necessary for the radio connection with the user equipment unit (EU). To a system that includes the network controller of drift radiocommunications (DRNC) and base stations controlled through the Iub Interface by the network controller drift radiocommunications (DRNC) is referred to in the present document as a DRNC or DRNS subsystem.

When a radiocommunication connection is being established between the radio access network (RAN) and a user equipment unit (UE), the radio access network (RAN) decides which RNC will be the service RNC (SRNC) and , if necessary, what RNC will be a drifting RNC (DRNC). Normally, as the service RNC (SRNC), the RNC that controls the cell in which the user equipment unit (UE) is located is initially selected when the radio connection is first established. As the user equipment unit (UE) moves, the radiocommunication connection is maintained even when the user equipment unit (UE) can be moved to a new cell, possibly even a new cell controlled by another RNC. That other RNC becomes a drift RNCs (DRNC) for the RAN-UE connection. An RNC is said to be the Control RNC (CRNC) for the base stations connected to it through an Iub interface. This CRNC function is not specific to each UE. The CRNC is responsible, among other things, for managing the management of radiocommunications resources for the cells in the base stations connected to it by means of
Iub interface

In certain situations it is advantageous to transfer control of a particular connection of a UE from one RNC to another RNC. This transfer of control of the connection of the UE from one RNC to another RNC has been referred to as transfer of uniform RNC, shift ( moveover ) of SRNC, and relocation of SRNC. To carry out this transfer of control, a relocation function / procedure is provided. It is a general function / procedure that covers internal relocations of the UMTS (for example, relocation of an SRNC within the UMTS) as well as relocations to other systems (for example, from the UMTS to GSM). SRNC relocation is described in several references.

SRNC relocation is intended to make the use of the transmission network more efficient. A Once the first SRNC is not necessary, the connection to the network switchboard is changed and the connection between the two RNCs (the first SRNC and the first DRNC through the link Between RNCs) is disconnected.

For each mobile that is serving the SRNC, the SRNC stores a bit string that identifies Permanently the mobile. According to the RAN system specified by the Third Generation Association Project (3GPP), this chain bit is the IMSI, and is transferred to the SRNC from the CN using a Common ID procedure through the Iu interface in the connection establishment. In the 3GPP approach, the IMSI structure is not recognized or used by the SRNC. It's used only to coordinate a search from a CN domain with a connection that is in progress for the other CN domain (comparing two bit strings). The CRNC stores information cell for all the cells it controls.

Currently, the Association Project of Third Generation (3GPP) provides some collaboration between operators  of mobile networks. It may be, for example, that two (or more) operators have each of them their operator networks respective (for example, a Public Land Service Network Mobile [PLMN]), and are collaborating in certain parts of the area of coverage (for example, rural areas) but compete in other areas (for example, urban areas). In the 3GPP terminology, the two networks are defined as "equivalent PLMNs" with respect to cell selection process in a mobile terminal. This equivalence for cell selection allows the terminal select cells from networks other than the operator's network to which the mobile terminal is paid.

For example, as illustrated in Fig. 1, a network of a first operator can have cells (illustrated using circles of continuous lines in Fig. 1) that lend service to or cover mainly the northern half of the country (for example, below the line L in Fig. 1), while a network of a second operator can have cells (illustrated by dashed line circles in Fig. 1) that serve or mainly cover the southern half of the country (for example, below of line L in Fig. 1). In addition, both the first operator and the second operator can serve a competition area (for example, city) delimited by line C in Fig. 1 (by example, both operators have cells in the area urban-metropolitan). The first and the second operators should collaborate at least at the level at which the mobile terminal of a subscriber of the first operator to travel outside the network of the first operator (for example, below the line L) should be able to establish communication between mobiles using the cells of the second operator, and vice versa.

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It is important to note that one of the operators (such as the first operator) may not want the mobile terminal subscriber to the network of the other operator use cells (for example, from first operator) in a region where the two operators have competing cells. For example, the first operator in Fig. 1 you may not want a mobile terminal (UE), which is subscribed to the network of subscription operators (for example, the network of second operator in the case of Fig. 1), use a network cell of the first operator when the UE moves to the area of competence C. Considering the smaller cell size of the first cells operator (continuous line) in the area of competence C of Fig. 1, and the largest number of cells provided by the first operator in the area of competence C, it is likely that the first operator may have invested much more in the network infrastructure radio access than the second operator, providing better signal reception, ability to traffic, or coverage than the second operator. For these or others reasons, the first operator may want to prevent the terminal mobile (which is subscribed to the network of the second competing operator) use the (possibly superior) cells of the first operator, particularly because the second operator has provided competing cells in the same area.

For mobile terminals in standby mode, the "LA prohibited" concept (for example, location area prohibited) results in rejection of access. When to a mobile terminal is informed that a certain location area (LA) is prohibited, the mobile terminal must find another LA (and finally select your own PLMN). On the other hand, the mobile terminal also stores a list of prohibited LA that is used to avoid selecting a prohibited LA in the future when the Mobile terminal is in its sleep mode.

While in these moments the rejection of access is viable for mobile terminals in idle mode, There is currently no way to prevent terminals in the connection mode, belonging to a competitor's network, access to cells in another network. Therefore, what can happen is that (in the area of competence) a first operator can perform a powerful investment to provide coverage of quality, while the second competing operator can try save money by providing more poor coverage, since subscribers of the network of the second operator can follow reusing the coverage of the other network of the first operator. These considerations undermine both a competition and a effective collaboration.

US-5862480, published on 19 of 1 of 1999, discloses an authorization method of subscriber units to determine the accessibility of the service between multiple different networks of radiotelecommunications The method involves the determination of access right of a subscriber unit to an RF network specific, by evaluating restriction information of subscribers for the specific RF network.

GB-2315193, published on 21 of 1 of 1998, unveils a digital cellular network GSM radio communications for portable phones. The network includes main and additional network parts that assign different identity codes allowing communication with stations mobile phones

Therefore, it is needed, and is an objective of the present invention, a technique to prevent or deny access, in areas of competence, to cells of a network of a first operator, attempted by or on behalf of a mobile terminal that is subscriber to a network of a second operator.

Brief Summary

Usually an access network of radiocommunications of a network of a (first) auxiliary operator it has cells that are eligible for use by a user equipment unit (UE) that is in a mode of connection and that is subscribed to a network of a (second) operator of subscription. However, the present invention prevents or rejects attempts to use (by a unit of equipment user (UE) that is subscribed to the network of its operator subscription) of a restricted cell, the cell being restricted any cell in the auxiliary operator network for the which subscription operator network has a cell competitor The rejected usage attempt can be one of between (1) a transfer to the restricted cell, and (2) a cell / URA update by the unit of equipment user (UE) through the restricted cell. Besides, the avoidance of attempted use of the restricted cell is occurs when the user equipment unit (UE) attempts a cell reselection. Thus, in an implementation of For example, rejection / avoidance includes that the unit of equipment user (UE) is in a connection mode in one of a state cell_DCH, a cell_FACH state, a cell_PCH state; A state URA_PCH; and a URA_PCH state.

In its various aspects, the invention is refers to a method according to claim 1, an access network of radiocommunications according to claim 16 executing a rejection necessary to protect the restricted cell as well as a control mode of said radio access network according to is defined in claim 31.

When a transfer to a cell is attempted objective of the auxiliary operator network with respect to the unit of user equipment (UE) that is subscribed to the operator network of subscription, the protective network control node of the operator auxiliary obtains, from a network of a startup operator, an identity of international mobile subscriber (IMSI) of the unit of equipment user (UE) and an identification of the target cell sought by the transfer. The protective control node uses the IMSI to determine if the target cell is a restricted cell, and (in affirmative case) notifies the startup operator network that Reject the transfer. The identity of international mobile subscriber (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and identification of the target cell sought by the handover can be obtained at from a source radiocommunication network controller (SRNC) of the startup operator network. When the unit of equipment user (UE) is in a cell_DCH state, in one embodiment illustrated the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) of the User equipment unit (UE) and cell identification target are obtained particularly from an RL message SETUP REQUEST issued by the network controller of source radiocommunications (SRNC) of the operator's network start. In determining if the target cell is a cell restricted, the protective control node of the operator's network auxiliary obtains a PLMN code from the IMSI of the unit user equipment (UE), and consult a table to determine (based on the PLMN code obtained) if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the user equipment unit (EU).

In addition to or in conjunction with an attempt to handover, the network of the second operator can also try perform a type of transfer known as discontinuous transfer with SRNC relocation, which (in the context of the present invention) is a transfer of an SRNC function from a controller Radiocommunication network (RNC) of the operator's network subscription to a radio network controller (RNC) of the auxiliary operator network. In that case, the control node auxiliary operator network protector obtains the identity of international mobile subscriber (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and an identification of the target cell from the network central. Next, the protective control node determines whether the target cell is a restricted cell (in a similar way to the evaluation / rejection of the transfer), and (if yes) notifies the central network that the transfer is rejected with relocation In an illustrated implementation, the control node protector obtains the identity of international mobile subscriber (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and the identification of the target cell in a RELOCATION REQUEST message from the network central.

The invention has wide applicability, regardless of which network the SRNC may be located in (by example, regardless of the identity of the operator's network of start). For example, the source RNC may be within the network of the subscription operator. Alternatively, the SRNC of origin it can be in the network of the (first) auxiliary operator (for example, the methods of the invention are used between two controllers radio network within the operator's network assistant). Still additionally, the source SRNC may be in another country (for example, a network of a third operator), so that the mobile terminal (UE) simply moves to an area of the two networks of the collaborator / competitor operator.

The attempted use can also be a cell update attempt made by the unit User equipment (UE) through the restricted cell. Typically, in performing a cell update, the User equipment unit (UE) is either in a cell_FACH state or in a cell_PCH state. When the user equipment unit (UE) attempts to perform a cell-to-cell update target of the auxiliary operator network, the control node protector also obtains, from the operator's network of subscription, the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and the identification of the target cell Then, in a similar way to the attempt to handover, the protective control node determines if the cell target is a restricted cell, and (if yes) provides a notification that the update is rejected the cell. In an example implementation, in conjunction with the attempt to update cell, the protective control node receives the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) of the User equipment unit (UE) and cell identification target from a COMMON TRANSPORT CHANNEL RESOURCES message REQUEST issued by the radio network controller of source (SRNC) of the subscription operator network.

The avoidance of an attempt to use the restricted cell also occurs when the unit of equipment of user (UE) attempts a cell reselection. An attempt to cell reselection by the user equipment unit (UE) can be produced, in an illustrated example embodiment, when the user equipment unit (UE) is in one of a state cell_PCH, a state cell_FACH, or a state URA_PCH. When an attempt is made to use the cell restricted by part of the user equipment unit (UE), the operator network auxiliary promotes the transmission of a cell identification restricted from the network of the first operator to the unit of equipment of user (UE).

In one of its aspects, the present invention is refers to a mobile terminal that is subscribed to the network of its native operator and that, in a connection mode and before a cell reselection towards a target cell, check if the target cell is a restricted area. Again in this case, the restricted area is considered at the same time exploited by the network of the auxiliary or foreign operator and in competition with a cell operated by the native or subscription operator network. In a example implementation, location area identity is used (LAI) broadcast from each cell, and the mobile terminal maintains a list of identities of restricted location areas that are query as part of the check. In an example mode, the mobile terminal updates the list of restricted LAIs when the location registration in a central network through the cell restricted is rejected by the central network with information that This LAI is restricted. In another example mode, the mobile terminal update the list of restricted LAIs when a rejection is received of a cell update attempt (which includes information from that this LAI is restricted). Another example is one in which the mobile terminal maintains a list of restricted cells, and at rejection of a cell update occurs, you are informed by the network that this particular cell is restricted. After a mobile terminal finds out that a target cell is restricted, the mobile terminal no longer attempts to access that cell Instead, it looks for other cells.

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Brief description of the drawings

The above and other objectives, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more specific description of preferred embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the reference characters refer to the same parties during all the different views. The drawings are not represented necessarily to scale, emphasizing instead the illustration of the principles of the invention.

Fig. 1 is a diagrammatic view showing a network topology to illustrate a first scenario of the invention, including the network topology two operator networks (PLMNs) that, in some geographical areas, collaborate, while, in other geographical areas, they are in competition.

Fig. 1A is a diagrammatic view showing a network topology to illustrate a second scenario of the invention.

Fig. 1B is a diagrammatic view showing a network topology to illustrate a third scenario of the invention.

Fig. 2 is a schematic view of parts of a representative example telecommunications system that they serve as a non-limiting implementation, by way of example, of embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a diagrammatic view showing various aspects of a user equipment unit (UE), along with certain basics of a base station node and a node Radio network controller.

Fig. 4 is a diagrammatic view showing connection mode states of a user equipment unit (UE) relevant to the present invention.

Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are partially seen schematic and partially in diagram, which show modes respective of resolutive components of the present invention for evaluate, and, if necessary, refuse, an attempt to transfer.

Fig. 6A (1), Fig. 6A (2), the Fig. 6B (1), and Fig. 6B (2) are partially seen schematic and partially in diagram, which show modes respective of resolutive components of the present invention for evaluate, and, if necessary, reject an attempt to update cell.

Fig. 7 is a schematic view of a node Representative RNC, for example, that can be used with a implementation of the invention

Fig. 8 is a diagrammatic view showing the storage of a copy of a table of PLMNs / areas of the CRNC on an SRNC node.

Detailed description of the drawings

In the following description, for purposes Explanatory and non-limiting, specific details are set forth such  as architectures, interfaces, techniques, etc., individuals, in order to provide a thorough understanding of this invention. However, it will be evident to those experts in the matter that the present invention can be put into practice in other embodiments that differ with respect to these details specific. In other cases, detailed descriptions of well-known devices, circuits, and methods for not hinder the description of the present invention with details unnecessary. On the other hand, some of the figures show individual function blocks. Those subject matter experts they will appreciate that the functions can be implemented using circuits individual hardware, using software functions in conjunction with a digital microprocessor or a computer general function properly programmed, using a circuit Integrated application specific (ASIC), and / or using one or more digital signal processors (DSPs).

Returning to the illustration in Fig. 1, to the network of the first operator (represented by cell lines continuous) will be referred to as the auxiliary operator network (for example, PLMN) while the operator network represented through dashed line cells, reference will be made and considered as a network of a "subscription" operator in the sense that, in the subsequent exposure, the mobile terminal involved in a connection mode is the subject of a contract of subscription with the subscription network. As indicated previously, as used herein, the expression "user equipment unit (UE)" shall cover all types of mobile terminals

Outside the competition area C, the cells of the network of the first operator (auxiliary) are eligible for their use by a user equipment unit (UE) that is in a connection mode and that is subscribed to the network of your subscription operator However, the present invention avoids or rejects attempts to use a restricted network cell of the first operator by a user equipment unit (UE) that is subscribed to another operator's network (for example, the network of the (second) subscription operator). A restricted cell is any cell in the auxiliary operator network for which the subscription operator network has a competing cell, for example, it is in the area of competence C. As described in in more detail later in this document, the Attempted use rejected may be one of (1) a handover to the restricted cell, and (2) an update of cell / URA by the user equipment unit (UE) to through the restricted cell. In addition, the avoidance of intent Restricted cell utilization occurs when the unit User Equipment (UE) attempts a cell reselection. From In this way, rejection / avoidance includes the unit of equipment user (UE) is in a connection mode in one of a state cell_DCH, a cell_FACH state, a cell_PCH state; and a state URA_PCH.

Before describing the characteristics of competition / collaboration between networks of the present invention, is provides a brief description of selected parts of a illustrative implementation of an access network of example radiocommunications. The illustrative implementation, not limiting, for example, is in the context of Universal Mobile Telecommunications (UMTS) 10 shown in the Fig. 2.

An external, connection-oriented core network, representative, shown in the form of a cloud 12 of Fig. 2, it can be, for example, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and / or the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). A core network external non-connection oriented, representative, shown in shape of a cloud 14, can be, for example, the Internet. Both networks exchanges are coupled to corresponding service nodes 16. The PSTN / ISDN connection-oriented network 12 is connected to a node of connection-oriented service shown as a center node 18 Mobile Switching (MSC) that provides service by circuit switching The network 14 not connection oriented, Internet is connected to a node 20 of the General Service of Packet Radiocommunication (GPRS) customized for provide services of the packet switching type, to which sometimes referred to as a GPRS service node of service (SGSN).

Each of the 18 and 20 service nodes of the core network connects to an Terrestrial Access Network of UMTS Radiocommunication (UTRAN) 24 through a network interface of radiocommunication access (RAN) referred to as interface Iu. The UTRAN 24 includes one or more network controllers of radiocommunications (RNCs) 26. For simplicity, the UTRAN 24 of Fig. 1 is shown with only two RNC nodes, particularly RNC 26_1 and RNC 26_ {2}. Each RNC 26 is connected to a plurality of base stations (BS) 28. For example, and again for simplicity, two nodes of base station connected to each RNC 26. In this regard, the RNC 26_ {1} serves the base station 28_ {1-1} and to the base station 28_ {1-2}, while RNC 26_ {2} lends service to the base station 28_ {2-1} and to the base station 28_ {2-2}. It will be appreciated that each RNC can serve a different number of base stations, and that it is not necessary for RNCs to serve the same number of base stations On the other hand, Fig. 2 shows that an RNC can be connected through an Iur interface to another or other RNCs in the UTRAN 24.

In the illustrated embodiments, for reasons of simplicity, each base station 28 is displayed in a way that lends service to a cell. Each cell is represented by a circle surrounding the respective base station. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a base station can serve to communicate through the air interface to More than one cell. For example, two cells can use resources located in the same base station location.

A user equipment unit (UE), such as the user equipment unit (UE) 30 shown in Fig. 2, is communicates with one or more cells or one or more base stations (BS) 28 a via a radio or air interface 32. Each of the radiocommunication interface 32, the Iu interface, the Iub interface, and the Iur interface is shown by means of lines of dots and stripes in Fig. 2.

Preferably, the access of Radiocommunications is based on Multiple Access by Division of Broadband Code (WCDMA) with individual channels of radiocommunications assigned using spreading codes CDMA Obviously, other access methods can be used. He WCDMA provides broad bandwidth for services multimedia and other high speed transmission needs as well as robust features such as transfers of diversity and RAKE receivers to ensure high quality. In the cell_DCH state, to each mobile station or unit of equipment user (UE) 30 is assigned its own randomization code for a base station 28 to identify transmissions of that particular user equipment unit (UE) as well as for the user equipment unit (UE) identify transmissions of the base station intended for that user equipment unit (UE) of between all other transmissions and noise present in The same area.

There may be different types of channels between one of the base stations 28 and user equipment units (UEs) 30 for the transport of control and user data. By For example, in the forward or downlink direction, there are various types of broadcasting channels including a channel of general broadcasting (BCH), a search channel (PCH), a channel common pilot (CPICH), and a direct access channel (FACH) for provide other various types of control messages to units of user equipment (UEs). The shortcut channel (FACH) is also used to transport user data. At the address reverse or uplink, user equipment units (UEs) use a random access channel (RACH) each time you want an access to run a location record, origination of calls, a search response, and other types of access operations The random access channel (RACH) is used also to transport certain user data, for example, best effort packet data for, for example, applications  of web browsers. You can assign dedicated channels (DCH) to transport important call communications with a unit of User equipment (UE).

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The present invention, which can be implemented in the example context of the telecommunications system of the Fig. 2, refers particularly to a new and improved technique to foster collaboration and competition between networks of operators As one of its aspects that implements this technique new, one or more of the network controllers 26 of radiocommunications perform a network protection function, and, therefore, they are referred to herein as "protective" nodes or "protective" control nodes. By consequently, as an illustrative example implementation, no limiting, radiocommunication network controllers 26 of Fig. 2 are shown to include a filter 100 of network protection As described in more detail subsequently, this protection function, as implemented, by  for example, by means of the network protection filter 100, avoid or rejects the attempt to use a restricted cell of the network of the first operator (auxiliary) by the unit of equipment of user (UE) 30, assuming the user equipment unit (UE) 30 is subscribed to another operator's network (for example, the network of the (second) subscription operator).

Fig. 3 shows general aspects selected from the user equipment unit (UE) 30 and nodes illustrative such as network controller 26 of radiocommunications and the base station 28. The equipment unit of User (UE) 30 shown in Fig. 3 includes a unit 31 of data processing and control to control various operations required by the user equipment unit (UE). Unit 31 of UE data processing and control controls signals as well as data for a radio transceiver 33 connected to an antenna  35. In addition to other features described below in this document, the user equipment unit (UE) 30 can have user interactive or viewable devices by the user, such as an input device 310 and a 312 display device.

The radio network controller 26 and the example base station 28, as shown in Fig. 3, are nodes of the radio network that include each of them a corresponding processing and control unit 36 and 37 of data, respectively, to perform numerous operations of radiocommunications and data processing necessary to carry carry out communications between RNC 26 and equipment units of user (UEs) 30. Part of the equipment controlled by the unit 37 processing and control of base station data includes various radiocommunication transceivers 38 connected to one or more antennas 39.

Fig. 7 illustrates, in a somewhat more detailed way, a non-limiting RNC 26_ {G} node, for example, of the present invention. The RNC 26_ {G} node of Fig. 7 may represent a Service RNC (SRNC) or a drift RNC (DRNC). It turns out that the RNC node 26 of Fig. 7 is a node based on an operation of switching that has a switch 120. Switch 120 serves to interconnect other constituent elements of the RNC node 26_ {G}. Such other constituent elements include terminals extension [ETs] 125_ {G-1} to 125_ {G-n}, the extension terminal 125_ {1} that connect node RNC 26_ {G}, through link 29 between RNCs, to another radio network controller, and terminal 124 of extension. Terminals 125_ {G-1} a 125_ {G-n} extension essentially work to connect node RNC 26_ {G} to base stations 28 at serving the node RNC 26_ {G}; terminal 124 of extension connects node RNC 26 through the Iu interface to the core network 16. Still other constituent elements of the RNC node 26_ {G} include the 27_ {G} unit of diversity transfers; he codex 130; the timing unit 132; a unit 134 of data services application; and, a main processor 140. In the non-limiting RNC 26_ {G} node, for example, the filter 100 of Network protection is displayed so that it is implemented in the main processor 140. However, it should be understood that the 100 network protection filter can be implemented using individual hardware circuits, using software functions in conjunction with a digital microprocessor or function computer general programmed properly, using an integrated circuit of specific application (ASIC), and / or using one or more processors of digital signals (DSPs).

The sample implementation of Fig. 2 serves therefore as an example network, whose architecture can be used by one or more of the (first) operator's network auxiliary and the network of the (second) subscription operator. Do not However, it should be understood that this example of architecture is not limiting the present invention.

As mentioned earlier, one of the problems is that the prior art does not offer any network protection with respect to a user equipment unit (UE) in its connection mode. The present invention overcomes this problem with three resolving components. For the realizations illustrated, these resolutive components are described in a way briefly later in terms of 3GPP terminology. The 3GPP terminology subsumes an understanding of several states that they can be adopted by a user equipment unit (UE) in their connection mode Four of these states - the cell_DCH state, the state cell_FACH, state URA_PCH, and state cell_PCH - are relevant to the present invention. These relevant states of the 3GPP connection mode are illustrated in Fig. 4 and are describe each of them briefly later. Every connection mode status reflects a different level of activity.

The cell_DCH state is characterized because it exists a dedicated channel (DCH) assigned to the user equipment unit (EU). Among multi-cell DCHs, macrodiversity can be used. In the cell_DCH state, there is a dedicated control channel (DCCH) used for the transmission of signaling messages between the User equipment unit (UE) and the UTRAN.

In the cell_FACH state, no one is assigned dedicated physical channel, but the user equipment unit (UE) is listening to a common channel (the FACH) on the link descending belonging to the selected cell. In the link ascending, the user equipment unit (UE) typically uses a random access channel (RACH). At each cell reselection, the User equipment unit (UE) updates the network with its location of current cell. In this state, there is a control channel dedicated (DCCH) used for message transmission from signaling between the user equipment unit (UE) and the UTRAN. The DCCH is implemented by adding the Temporary Network Identity of Radiocommunications (U-RNTI or C-RNTI) to all signaling messages, and, therefore, addressing an individual EU. The U-RNTI (RNTI UTRAN) is a global identity, which is You can use in any cell in the UTRAN. The C-RNTI (Cell RNTI) is only significant in a single cell, and must be reassigned in each cell. For another side, the C-RNTI is much shorter than the U-RNTI which saves space through the radio interface when the latter is used. In this state there is also a CCCH (Common Control Channel), which is used when the connection to the SRNC is not available, for example, after cell reselection across the borders of the RNC, when the CELL UPDATE or URA UPDATE message is sent to the DRNC

In the cell_PCH state, the unit of equipment for user (UE) monitors a search channel (PCH) of a cell selected In the PCH, the user equipment unit (UE) uses a discontinuous reception (DRX) to save power, and the scheme about when to listen, remember between the network and the unit of user equipment (UE) based on each unit of equipment user (UE). Also, in the cell_PCH state, the unit of equipment for user (UE) updates the network with its current cell location in The cell selection network. No DCCH is available in the state cell_PCH. In the PCH, there are means to address units of individual user equipment (UEs) (using the U-RNTI), but the user equipment unit (UE) does not It can carry no signaling message to the network.

The URA_PCH state is almost identical to the state cell_PCH The difference is that the user equipment unit (UE) only update your location network after crossing URA borders. A URA (UTRAN Registration Area) is a cell group This means that, in this state, the position of the user equipment unit (UE) is generally known only at the URA level.

Having briefly described the states of connection mode for a user equipment unit (UE), it then introduce the operative components presented by the present invention:

(1) A first operative component is that it is not you can transfer a UE in the cell_DCH state to a Competitive network cell in the competition area.

(2) A second operative component is that the network of the (first) auxiliary operator can refuse access (cell update) from a UE in the cell_FACH state or cell_PCH to a cell in the competing network in the area of competition.

(3) A third operative component is that an EU in the state cell_FACH or cell_PCH has functions that prevent the selection of competing network cells in the area of competition, even if this network is considered "equivalent" from the point of view of cell selection.

Each of these resolutive components is described separately below with illustrations such as Fig. 5A. In Fig. 5A and the following various illustrations, network nodes of the (first) are illustrated in solid lines auxiliary operator, while dashed lines are illustrated network nodes of the startup operator. The operator's network of startup is a network requesting a relocation of SRNS or handover With relocation. On the other hand, in these illustrations, any subscript that includes "O1" refers to an aspect of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator, while any subscript that include "ON" refers to an aspect of the operator's network of start. In addition, to the network controller 26_ {O1} of Network radio communications of the (first) auxiliary operator will be currently referred to as CRNC, while the controller 26_ {ON} of the radio network of the (second) network Subscription operator is currently designated as SRNC. Be shows a link between RNCs so that it connects the controller 26_ {O1} of the radio network of the (first) network auxiliary operator and network controller 26_ {ON} radiocommunications of the operator network start.

The invention has wide applicability, regardless of what or on which network it may belong or be located the radio network network controller 26_ {ON} (for example, regardless of the identity of the operator's network Of start). For example, as in the situation shown in the Fig. 1, the start operator network can be the operator network subscription, therefore being the SRNC of origin within the subscription operator network. Alternatively, as is shown in Fig. 1A, the source SRNC may be in the network of the (first) auxiliary operator (for example, the procedures of the invention are used) between two network controllers of radiocommunications within the auxiliary operator network). Still further, as shown in Fig. 1B, the SRNC source can belong to a startup operator network in another country (for example, the home operator network is a network of a third operator [neither the auxiliary operator's network nor the subscription operator]), so that the mobile terminal (UE) simply scroll from the home operator network (foreign) to an area of the two operator networks collaborator / competitor (the auxiliary operator network and the subscription operator). Thus, it should be understood that the notation (for example, subscript) "ON" as used This document is not limited to a reference to no particular startup operator network, but can refer (for example) to the auxiliary operator network (for example, ON = OI), to the subscription operator's network, or to a third party or Any other operator network.

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As previously mentioned, the 26_ {O1} radio network network controller of the (first) auxiliary operator has a network protection filter 100. As illustrated in Fig. 5A and in several drawings subsequent, the network protection filter 100 includes a table 110 or other indication or stored list that is consulted for determine (based on the PLMN code obtained) if allowed  an action to be taken with respect to the target cell of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator.

Table 110 is also known hereinafter as PLMN / areas table 110. As will be apparent from the subsequent description, under certain circumstances linked to the solution scenarios, to the network protection filter 100 of the radiocommunication network controller 26_ {O1} of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator it provides the IMSI unit user equipment (UE) in connection mode involved in a potential or attempted activity (eg, transfer, shift (moveover) update cells) activity and identification of target cell As those skilled in the art understand, the IMSI is the international mobile subscriber identity, which is an exclusive identity assigned to each subscriber which facilitates a correct identification of the subscriber on the radio route and through the network. The IMSI is usually a concatenation of mobile country code (MCC), mobile network code (MNC), and mobile station identification number (MSI).

In relation to the above, in several embodiments of the invention, the network protection filter 100 obtains a PLMN code from the IMSI (for example, a combination of the mobile country code [MCC] and the network code of mobile [MNC]). Next, the network protection filter 100 consult table 110 of PLMN / areas to determine if the network of the (first) auxiliary operator will allow the activity sought or tried. For example, the network protection filter 100 uses the PLMN code as an index to access table 110 of PLMN / areas, and determine, from table 110, for what areas (eg, cells) controlled by the 26_ {O1} controller of radio network of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator the activity sought or attempted is permissible. Then the 100 network protection filter searches the list of areas obtained from the table to determine if the target cell It is listed or included in the list areas. For example in The illustration in Fig. 5A, PLMN table 110 / areas includes a list of allowed areas for which a activity with respect to a user equipment unit (UE) of the network of the (second) subscription operator.

Evidently variations of the PLMN table 110 / areas. For example, table 110 of PLMN / areas You can list prohibited areas instead of allowed areas. In In either case, the eligibility status of a cell is You can get or deduct easily.

The "areas" that are the subject of table 110 (which may be either allowed or prohibited) may be any conventional geographic or network-based unit, such as cells or location areas (LAs). Just like those experts in matter they will appreciate, a cell is a basic unit of a cellular system and is the geographical area in which a base station Provide coverage. Location areas (LAs) are groups of cells, each location area presenting an Area Identity of Independent location (LAI). The base stations within a location area periodically broadcast the LAI corresponding to the particular location area in which they are located the same. In case the table 110 of the filter 100 network protection is structured in terms of area of location (LA), an optional secondary table 112 can be used or similar to find a location area that includes the cell objective (because it is the target cell that communicates to the 26_ {O1} radio network network controller of the (first) auxiliary operator). At least in some embodiments described herein, all cells within a location area (LA) should be uniformly prohibited or be uniformly accessible.

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Rejection of the transfer

The first operative component is that it is not you can transfer a UE in the cell_DCH state to a Competitive network cell in the competition area. Essentially, the network controller 26_ {O1} is made of radiocommunications of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator, which is the RNC that controls the target cell for handover, is at charge of deciding which UEs are allowed to access cells under their control. This gives the (first) auxiliary operator a consistent control over the resources used in the network of (first) auxiliary operator.

Fig. 5A illustrates particularly certain basic events, actions, or stages that occur for a mode of the first operative scenario, for example, a situation in which the subscription operator network tries to perform a transfer to a target cell in the auxiliary operator network with with respect to the user equipment unit (UE) that is paid to the subscription operator network. The handover can be a handover  uniform, for example, a transfer in which the SRNC tries to add a section of the existing connection in the target cell.

As shown by the event 5A-1 in Fig. 5A, the network controller 26_ {O1} radiocommunication network of the (first) auxiliary operator obtains, from the home operator network, the identity of international mobile subscriber (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and an identification of the target cell sought by the transfer. In an implementation of this 3GPP scenario, and assuming that the user equipment unit (UE) is in a state cell_DCH, the international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) of the user equipment unit (UE) and the identification of the target cell are obtained particularly from a message RL SETUP REQUEST issued by the network controller 26_ {ON} radiocommunications of the operator network start.

As event 5A-2, the protective control node uses the IMSI to determine if the cell target is a restricted cell (for example, if this unit User equipment (UE) is allowed to access the cell objective). The use of the IMSI for determination occurs according to the manner described above in reference to table 110 of PLMN / areas example (for example, obtaining a PLMN code from the IMSI of the user equipment unit [UE], and consulting the table 110 to determine [based on the PLMN code obtained] if the target cell is eligible for transfer to the unit of user equipment [EU]. If access is not allowed, the controller 26_ {O1} of the radio network of the (first) network auxiliary operator rejects the transfer attempt (for example, the RL SETUP REQUEST). As event 5A-3, the 26_ {O1} radio network network controller of the (first) auxiliary operator sends a message to the controller 26_ {ON} radio network of the operator's network start, indicating that the target cell is not accessible for this subscriber (for example, the user equipment unit [UE]).

Fig. 5B similarly illustrates certain basic events, actions, or stages that occur for another mode of the first operative scenario, for example, a situation in which the subscription operator's network attempts to perform a type of handover known as handover. with relocation of SRNS. In the context of the present invention, said shift ( moveover ) is a transfer of an SRNC function from the radio network controller 26_ {ON} of the start-up operator network to the radio communication network controller 26_ {O1} of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator.

In the scenario of Fig. 5B, as event 5B-1, the network controller 26_ {ON} radio operator network start operator starts the SRNS relocation procedure by sending a message from relocation request to the network (s) central (s) 16, including the request message of relocating an identification of the target cell. TO then, in response, as an event 5B-2, the central network (s) 16 requests resources for relocation to the target RNC (en that is, in the radio communications network controller 26_ {O1} of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator). The request message from Event resources 5B-2 includes the IMSI of the user equipment unit (UE) as well as the identification of the target cell

Similar to that of Fig. 5A, as event 5B-3, the target RNC (that is, the 26_ {O1} radio network network controller of the (first) auxiliary operator) uses PLMN table 110 / areas to determine if this subscriber is allowed to access the cell objective, and, thus, if the relocation can succeed. In if relocation is not allowed, the controller 26_ {O1} of the target radio network of the (first) auxiliary operator rejects the relocation attempt, issuing, as event 5B-4, a message from that the target cell is not accessible to this subscriber (unit of user equipment (UE)). In response, as an event 5B-5, the central network (s) 16 subsequently sends a rejection message to the controller 26_ {ON} radio network of the operator's network start, including said rejection message a value of motive or similar that explains that the target cell is not accessible for this subscriber / user equipment unit (UE).

In an example implementation of Fig. 5B, the message of event 5B-1 is a message
RELOCATION REQUIRED, while the event message 5B-2 is a RELOCATION REQUEST message.

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Rejection of the cell update

A second decisive component is that the network of the (first) auxiliary operator can refuse access (cell updates and URA updates) from a UE in the area of competence if the user equipment unit (UE) belongs to the network of the (second) subscription operator. Can be produce cell updates when the unit of equipment user (UE) is in the cell_FACH or cell_PCH state; can be produce URA updates when the unit of equipment user (UE) is in the URA_PCH state. As used in the this document, "update" covers both the cell update as the URA update.

This second operative component incorporates principles similar to those of the cell_DCH state (see the first solution above, REJECTION OF TRANSFER), but applies when the User equipment unit (UE) in connection mode is in the state cell_FACH, state cell_PCH, or state URA_PCH instead of in the cell_DCH state. For this second operative component, the same PLMN table 110 / areas configured in the network protection filter 100 of the network controller 26_ {O1} radiocommunications of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator.

As a background, when a unit of User equipment (UE) is using the common RACH / FACH channels (for example, the RRC status of the UE is cell_FACH), the first message sent from the user equipment unit (UE) when entering in a new cell is a CELL-UPDATE RRC message. The CELL-UPDATE RRC message serves as a type of registration message to allow UTRAN to know the position new from the user equipment unit (UE). Then the UTRAN decides how to manage this user equipment unit (UE). If UTRAN decides that the user equipment unit (UE) is going to remain on common channels, the unit of equipment will be told of user (UE) that remains on common channels. TO then the user equipment unit (UE) monitors the FACH for any downlink transmission, and use a true RACH for uplink access. This case of the user equipment unit (UE) that uses common channels differs therefore with respect to a case of a unit of equipment user (UE) that uses dedicated channels, since the use of channels dedicated can cause a situation of uniform transfer in the that, through the new cell, links are established radiocommunications or new connection sections with the unit User equipment (UE). In an analogous way, it can occur an update of the URA when the user equipment unit (UE) is in the URA_PCH state. As mentioned above, the generic reference in this case to "update" encompasses both an update scenario of cell as a URA update scenario, or one of the two scenarios, the signaling sequence being essentially the Same for both.

In Fig. 6A (1), Fig. 6A (2), Fig. 6B (1), and Fig. 6B (2) several are illustrated modes of the second operative component. This second component operative is generally applicable in a situation such as the next: the user equipment unit (UE) (which belongs to the network of the (second) subscription operator) has not had knowledge yet that a certain area (for example, cell or location area [LA]) is prohibited, and therefore the User equipment unit (UE) tries to perform an update (for example, an update to a target cell of an LA). Event 6-1 of Fig. 6A (1), the Fig. 6A (2), Fig. 6B (1), and Fig. 6B (2) shows the user equipment unit (UE) trying a update to the network controller 26_ {O1} of radiocommunications of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator. He event update message 6-1 no includes the subscriber's IMSI (for example, the unit of equipment of user [EU]), so that, as event 6-2, the radio network network controller 26_ {O1} of the (first) auxiliary operator can only include and forward the cell update message to controller 26_ {ON} of radio network of the startup operator network as in normal operation

Upon receipt of the request for event update 6-2, the controller 26_ {ON} radio network of the operator's network Start has two possible basic answers. A possible first answer is to use the Iur connection; a second possible answer is initiate a relocation of SRNS. The rejection communication to the User equipment unit (UE) can be implemented in both possible answers, in any one of two alternatives. For both possible basic answers, the first alternative involves sending a special rejection message to the unit of user equipment (UE). The second alternative involves the use of another message that finally has the effect of rejecting the cell update (for example, an RRC RELEASE message sent from the SRNC to the user equipment unit (UE), which causes the user equipment unit (UE) attempts a record of unsuccessful location on the network (s) central (s) 16 and realize that the cell is prohibited).

The first alternative of the first answer possible is illustrated in Fig. 6a (1), while the second Alternative of the first possible response is illustrated in Fig. 6a (2). The first alternative of the second answer possible is illustrated in Fig. 6b (1), while the second Alternative of the second possible response is illustrated in Fig. 6b (2).

Fig. 6A (1) illustrates the mode of the second resolving component in which the SRNC (that is, the controller 26_ {ON} radio network of the operator's network start) remains in the old network and the Iur connection is used. As event 6A-3, controller 26_ {ON} radio network start operator network send a resource request message to controller 26_ {O1} radio network of the network of the (first) operator auxiliary, including the event message 6A-3 the target cell, as well as the IMSI of the subscriber. In an illustrated example implementation, based on the 3GPP, the 6A-3 event message can be a COMMON TRANSPORT CHANNEL RESOURCES REQUEST message issued to the CRNC. (For example, the network controller 26_ {O1} of radiocommunications of the network of the (first) auxiliary operator).

As in previously described modes, such as event 6A-4, the 100 protection filter of 26_ {O1} radio network controller network of the network of (first) auxiliary operator uses table 110 of PLMN / areas to determine if the user equipment unit (UE) is Allows access to the target cell. In the event that the unit of user equipment (UE) would not be allowed access, such as event 6A-5 the network controller 26_ {O1} radiocommunication network of the (first) auxiliary operator sends a rejection message to the network controller 26_ {ON} of radio operator network start-up, informing of that this cell is not accessible to the equipment unit of user (UE). Then as an event 6A (1) -6, the 26_ {ON} network controller of Startup operator network radio sends a Rejection message to the user equipment unit (UE).

In the first alternative of Fig. 6A (1), the event rejection message 6A (1) -6 is a message that rejects specifically the update (for example, a dedicated message in order to refuse the update or to transport specifically a code, field, direct value that is interpreted as rejection). The event message 6A (1) -6 specifically indicates that the cell / URA for which the update is requested belongs to a prohibited area (for example, a prohibited location area or cell prohibited). In response, as an event 6A (1) -7, the user equipment unit (UE) stores the cell that caused the rejection message in your list 202 of prohibited areas (see Fig. 3). Then the unit of user equipment (UE) tries to select another cell, and finally it will select a cell from the startup operator network or, if not, it will enter its sleep mode.

Fig. 6A (2) illustrates the second alternative for implementing the rejection mode of the update using the Iur connection. For the scenario of Fig. 6A (2), events 6-1 and 6-2, as well as events 6A-3 to 6A-5 are essentially the same as those shown in Fig. 6A (1). However, the second alternative of Fig. 6A (2) differs in its way of communicating the rejection of the update to the user equipment unit (UE). Specifically, this second alternative of Fig. 6A (2) can occur when a new message to reject an update is not available, or is not otherwise feasible, in the network of the (first) auxiliary operator. In the second alternative of Fig. 6A (2), the event rejection message 6A (2) -6 is an RRC RELEASE message. Upon receipt of the RRC RELEASE message of event 6A (2) -6, the user equipment unit (UE) enters the sleep mode and attempts (as event 6A (2) -7) a location register in the (s)
central network (s) 16. This location register passes through the radio network network controller 26_ {O1} of the (first) auxiliary operator (in the case of a cell update, for example), since the user equipment unit (UE) continues to believe that the target cell is a valid cell. The user equipment unit (UE) will only activate this location register if the LAI of the new cell is different from the previous situation (which explains why the prohibited or restricted areas are preferably location areas [LAs]) .

The central network (s) 16, which has the same information as in table 110 of PLMN / areas, will reject the attempt to register the location of the event 6A (2) -7, as indicated through the event rejection message 6A (2) -8. The event message 6A (2) -8 indicates that the reason for rejection is a prohibited area (for example, prohibited [LA] location area). Although not shown as such in Fig. 6A (2) for reasons to simplify the drawing, the location record of the event 6A (2) -7 and rejection of event 6A (2) -8 are made through of the base station that serves the cell involved in the update that was sought. Upon receipt of said rejection, as event 6A (2) -9 the User equipment unit (UE) updates its list of areas prohibited 202 (see Fig. 3). Finally the team unit of user (UE) will select another area (for example, it is expected that from the subscription operator network) and will perform a registration successful.

Fig. 6B (1) illustrates the mode of the second operative component in which the SRNC (ie, the radio communications network controller 26_ {ON} of the start-up operator's network) decides to use a transfer with SRNC relocation. Fig. 6B (1) shows that events 6-1 to 6-2 of Fig. 6 have occurred in a manner similar to those in Fig. 6A (1), with the result that the controller 26_ { O1} of the radio network of the (first) auxiliary operator network has sent the update message 6-2 to the radio network network controller 26_ {ON} of the start operator network. Then, as event 6B-3 the radio communication network controller 26_ {ON} of the (second) subscription operator initiates the transfer procedure with SRNS relocation by sending a relocation request message to the network (s) central (s) 16. The relocation request message includes an identification of the target cell. Then, in response, as event 6B-4, the central network (s)
16 requests resources for the location in the target RNC (that is, in the radio communications network controller 26_ {O1} of the (first) auxiliary operator's network). The resource request message of event 6B-4 includes the IMSI of the user equipment unit (UE) as well as the identification of the target cell / URA.

Similar to the previous scenarios, as event 6B-5 the target RNC (ie, the radio communications network controller 26_ {O1) of the (first) auxiliary operator) uses PLMN table 110 / areas to determine if this subscriber is allowed to access the target cell / URA, and, therefore, if the shiftover can be successful. In the event that relocation is not allowed, the target radiocommunication network controller 26_ {O1} of the (first) auxiliary operator network rejects the relocation attempt, issuing as a 6B-6 event a message that the target cell It is not accessible for this subscriber / user equipment unit (UE). In response, as event 6B-7 the central network (s) 16 subsequently send a rejection message to the radio network controller 26_ {ON} of the start-up operator's network, further including said message of I reject a reason value or similar that explains that the target cell is not accessible for this subscriber / user equipment unit (UE).

As in the first mode of the solution of rejection of updates, in the second mode the communication of the Refusal of the update to the user equipment unit (UE) is It can produce in any one of two alternatives. The First alternative is illustrated in Fig. 6B (1), and is analogous to the communication using the Iur connection of Fig. 6A (1). In this first alternative, as an event 6B (1) -8, the 26_ {ON} network controller of Startup operator network radio sends a Rejection message to the user equipment unit (UE). He event rejection message 6B (1) -8 is a message that specifically rejects the update (for example, a dedicated message in order to reject the update  or to specifically transport a code, field, or direct value to be interpreted as rejection). The event message 6B (1) -8 specifically indicates that the cell for which the update is requested belongs to an area prohibited (for example, a prohibited location area or cell prohibited). In response, as an event 6B (1) -9, the user equipment unit (UE) stores the cell that caused the rejection message in your list 202 of prohibited areas (see Fig. 3). Then the unit of user equipment (UE) tries to select another cell, and finally select another cell (for example, a cell of the subscription operator network or, if not, will enter its mode of repose).

The second alternative of the second update rejection mode is illustrated in Fig. 6B (2). For the scenario of Fig. 6B (2), events 6-1 and 6-2, as well as events 6B-3 to 6B-7 are essentially the same as those shown in Fig. 6B (1). However, like Fig. 6A (2), the second alternative of Fig. 6B (2) differs in its way of communicating the rejection of the update to the user equipment unit (UE). Specifically, this second alternative of Fig. 6B (2) may occur when a new message to reject an update is not available, or is not otherwise feasible, in the network of the (first) auxiliary operator. In the second alternative of Fig. 6B (2), the event rejection message 6B (2) -8 is an RRC RELEASE message. Upon receipt of the RRC RELEASE message of event 6B (2) -8, the user equipment unit (UE) enters the
sleep mode and attempts (as event 6B (2) -9) a location record in the central network (s) 16.

The central network (s) 16, which has the same information as in table 110 of PLMN / areas, will reject the attempt to register the location of the event 6B (2) -9, as indicated through the event rejection message 6B (2) -10. The event message 6B (2) -10 indicates that the reason for rejection is a prohibited area (for example, prohibited [LA] location area). Although not shown as such in Fig. 6B (2) for reasons to simplify the drawing, the location record of the event 6B (2) -9 and the rejection of event 6B (2) -10 are made through of the base station that serves the cell for which it I was looking for the update. Upon receipt of said rejection, as event 6B (2) -11 the User equipment unit (UE) updates its list of areas prohibited 202 (see Fig. 3). Finally, the team unit user (UE) will select another area (for example, it is expected that an area of the subscription operator network) and will perform a Successful registration.

In the example implementations of Fig. 6B (1) and Fig. 6B (2), the event message 5B-1 is a RELOCATION REQUIRED message, while the 5B-2 event message is a message RELOCATION REQUEST.

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Preventing EU access to prohibited cells

The third operative component is that a user equipment unit (UE) in the cell_FACH or cell_PCH state It has functions that prevent the selection of network cells competitor in the competition area, even when this network is consider "equivalent" from the point of view of selecting the cells. In this way, this third operative component is refers to a situation in which the user equipment unit (UE) is subscribed to the network of its native operator (for example, the network of the (second) subscription operator) and is in a connection mode, even if you attempt a cell reselection in a target cell that is a restricted cell.

As shown in Fig. 3, according to the present invention, the user equipment unit (UE) has a network access filter function 200 that checks whether the cell target is a restricted cell. In an implementation of For example, the mobile terminal maintains a list of restricted areas (for example, list 202 of prohibited areas) that is consulted as part of the check. Access filter function 200 network can be implemented using individual hardware circuits, using software functions in conjunction with a microprocessor digital or general function computer properly programmed, using a specific application integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or using one or more digital signal processors (DSPs).

Thus, in this third component operatively, the unit network access filter function 200  of user equipment (UE) checks that the target cell does not form part of an area (for example, a location area [LA]) of the 202 list of prohibited areas. In this check, the UE does not indicate to the management of mobility of upper layers no change of area (for example, LA). Checking the area (for example, LA) in the connection mode is only to determine if you are allowed Access the cell.

In an implementation of the invention, for the connection mode you can use the same list of prohibited areas which is used for sleep mode.

The list of restricted areas 202 can be update when a location record occurs on a network central, according to the manner indicated in Fig. 5A (2) and Fig. 6A (2). Alternatively, the list of restricted areas (202) can be updated upon receipt of a rejection of a cell update attempt [for example, according to the manner indicated in Fig. 5A (1) and Fig. 6A (1)].

Fig. 8 shows that the network controller of SRNC source radiocommunications (RNC) of the operator's network start can optionally store a 110 'copy of table 110 of PLMN / areas of the target RNC of the auxiliary operator network. With 110 'copy of the table, the source RNC of the operator's network Startup can predict whether an access will be rejected or not. If with support of the 110 'copy of the table, the network RNC of origin start operator predicts a rejection of an access, you can avoid unnecessary signaling between the source SRNC and the RNC objective.

Thus, the present invention allows advantageously that two operators, who each have their PLMN itself, collaborate in coverage in some parts of the area authorized, while they can compete in other areas. In In particular, the invention provides mechanisms to avoid and reject access of user equipment units (UEs) to cells in which the UE is not authorized to use resources.

Although the invention has been described in relation with what is currently considered the most practical realization and preferred, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the realization disclosed, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and provisions equivalents included within the appended claims.

Claims (46)

1. Method to be used in an access network of radiocommunications of a network of a first operator that has cells that are eligible for use by a user equipment unit (30) that is in a connection mode and which is subscribed to a network of a second operator, comprising the method: designate as restricted cell any network cell of the first operator for which the network of the second operator have a competing cell; Y reject the attempt to use the cell restricted by the user equipment unit that is subscribed to the network of the second operator.

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2. Method of claim 1, wherein, with with respect to the unit of user equipment that is subscribed to the network of the second operator, the rejection stage comprises rejecting one of between a transfer to the restricted cell, and an update of UTRAN cell / Registration Area by the team unit of user through the restricted cell. 3. Method of claim 2, wherein the user equipment unit is in one of a state cell_Dedicated CHannel, a cell_Forward Access CHannel state, a cell_Paging CHannel status, and a UTRAN Registration status Area_Paging CHannel. 4. Method of claim 2, wherein when the network of the second operator tries to transfer to a target cell of the network of the first operator with respect to the unit of user equipment that is subscribed to the network of the second operator, the method also includes: obtain a Mobile Subscriber Identity International user equipment unit and identification of the target cell; use the International Mobile Subscriber Identity to determine in the network of the first operator whether the target cell it is a restricted cell; and if so; Reject the transfer.

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5. Method of claim 4, comprising also: obtain the Mobile Subscriber Identity International unit of user equipment and identification of the target cell from a network controller of source radiocommunications of a network of an operator of start; determine in a network controller of radio control network control of the first operator if the target cell is a restricted cell.

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6. The method of claim 5, wherein the User equipment unit is in a cell_Dedicated state CHannel, which also includes obtaining the Mobile Subscriber Identity International unit of user equipment and identification of the target cell from an RL SETUP REQUEST message issued by the source radiocommunication network controller from the startup operator network. 7. Method of claim 5, wherein the stage of determining, in the radio network controller control network of the first operator, if the target cell is A restricted cell comprises: get an operator network code from the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the unit of equipment of user; consult a table maintained by the controller radio control network to determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the unit of user equipment based on the code obtained from Public Network Land Mobile Services.

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8. Method of claim 2, wherein, when the user equipment unit tries to perform a UTRAN cell / Registration Area update with respect to a target cell of the network of the first operator, the method comprises also: obtain a Mobile Subscriber Identity International unit of User equipment and an Identification of the target cell; determine in the network of the first operator whether the target cell is a restricted cell; and if so; Reject the update.

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9. Method of claim 8, comprising also: obtain the Mobile Subscriber Identity International unit of user equipment and identification of the target cell from a network controller of source radiocommunications of a home operator network; determine in a network controller of radio control network control of the first operator if the target cell is a restricted cell.

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10. Method of claim 9, wherein the user equipment unit is in one of a state cell_Forward Access CHannel and a cell_Paging CHannel state, and that It also includes obtaining the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the user equipment unit and cell identification target from a COMMON TRANSPORT CHANNEL RESOURCES message REQUEST issued by the radio network controller of network origin of the startup operator. 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the stage of determining, in the radio network controller control network of the first operator, if the target cell is A restricted cell comprises: get a Land Public Network code from Mobile Services from the Mobile Subscriber Identity International user equipment unit; consult a table maintained by the controller radio control network to determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the unit of user equipment based on the code obtained from Public Network Land Mobile Services.

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12. Method of claim 9, comprising also generate a message that rejects cell update e informs that the cell is restricted. 13. Method of claim 1, wherein the attempted use of the restricted cell by the unit of user equipment that is subscribed to the network of the second operator is an attempt at cell reselection by the unit of user equipment, and also includes transmitting a identification of the restricted cell from the network of the first operator to the user equipment unit. 14. Method of claim 13, which it also includes transmitting the cell identification restricted from the network of the first operator to the unit of equipment of user when an attempt to register location occurs part of the user equipment unit. 15. Method of claim 13, which it also includes transmitting the cell identification restricted from the network of the first operator to the unit of equipment user when a message is transmitted to the equipment unit of user who rejects a cell update attempt by of the user equipment unit. 16. Radio access network of a network of a first operator that has cells that are eligible for its use by a unit (30) of user equipment that is in a connection mode and that is subscribed to a network of a second operator; comprising the access network of radiocommunications: means to designate as a restricted cell any cell in the network of the first operator for which the network the second operator has a competing cell; Y means to reject the attempt to use of the restricted cell by the user equipment unit which is subscribed to the network of the second operator.

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17. Radio access network of the claim 16, wherein, with respect to the equipment unit of user who is subscribed to the network of the second operator, the media of rejection are adapted to reject one of a transfer to the restricted cell, and a cell update / Area of UTRAN registration by the user equipment unit to through the restricted cell. 18. Radio access network of the claim 17, wherein the user equipment unit is in one of a cell_Dedicated CHannel state, a state cell_Forward Access CHannel, a cell_Paging CHannel state, and a UTRAN Registration Area_Paging CHannel status.

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19. Radio access network of the claim 17, wherein a network of a startup operator is adapted to try to transfer to a target cell of the network of the first operator with respect to the equipment unit of user who is subscribed to the network of the second operator, further comprising the radio access network: means to obtain, from the operator's network Start, an International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the unit of user equipment and an identification of the target cell; means to use the Mobile Subscriber Identity International in order to determine, in the network of the first operator, if the target cell is a restricted cell; and in case affirmative; means to refuse the transfer.

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20. Radio access network of the claim 19, wherein the means of obtaining are adapted to obtain the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the User Equipment Unit and cell identification target from a radio network controller of origin of the startup operator network, and in which the means to use the International Mobile Subscriber Identity in order to determine if the target cell is a restricted cell are located in a radio control network controller from the network of the first operator. 21. Radio access network of the claim 20, wherein the user equipment unit is in a cell_Dedicated CHannel state, and in which the means of obtaining are adapted to obtain the Mobile Subscriber Identity International unit of user equipment and identification of the target cell from an RL SETUP REQUEST message issued by the source radiocommunication network controller from the startup operator network. 22. Radiocommunication Access Network of the claim 20, wherein the means for using the Identity of International Mobile Subscriber in order to determine if the cell target is a restricted cell comprise: means to obtain a Public Network code Terrestrial of Mobile Services from the Identity of Subscriber International Mobile Unit User Equipment; a table maintained by the network controller of Control radiocommunications consulted in order to determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the user equipment unit based on the code obtained from the Public Land Mobile Services Network.

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23. Radio access network of the claim 17, wherein the user equipment unit is adapted to try to perform a cell / area update UTRAN registration with respect to a target cell in the network of the first operator, and in which the radio access network It also includes: means to obtain, from an operator network Start, an International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the unit of user equipment and an identification of the target cell; means to determine in the network of the first operator if the target cell is a restricted cell; and in case affirmative; means to provide a notification that The update is rejected.

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24. Radio access network of the claim 23, wherein the means of obtaining are adapted to obtain the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the User equipment unit and cell identification target from a radio network controller of network origin of the second operator; and in which the means of determination are located in a network controller of Radio control network control of the first operator. 25. Radiocommunication Access Network of the claim 24, wherein the user equipment unit is in one of a cell_Forward Access CHannel state and a state cell_Paging CHannel, and in which the means of obtaining are adapted to obtain the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the user equipment unit and cell identification target from a COMMON TRANSPORT CHANNEL RESOURCES message REQUEST issued by the radio network controller of network origin of the second operator.

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26. Radio access network of the claim 24, wherein the means for determining whether the cell target is a restricted cell comprise: means to obtain a Public Network code Terrestrial of Mobile Services from the Identity of Subscriber International Mobile Unit User Equipment; a table maintained by the network controller of Control radiocommunications consulted in order to determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the user equipment unit based on the code obtained from the Public Land Mobile Services Network.

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27. Radio access network of the claim 24, further comprising means for generating a message that rejects the update and reports that the cell objective is restricted. 28. Radiocommunication access network of the claim 16, wherein the attempt to use the cell restricted by the user equipment unit that is subscribed to the network of the second operator is an attempt to reselect cell by the user equipment unit, and that It also includes means for transmitting an identification of the restricted cell from the network of the first operator to the unit of User equipment 29. Radio access network of the claim 28, wherein the means for transmitting the identification of the restricted cell from the network of the first operator to the user equipment unit are adapted to transmit when an attempt to register location occurs part of the user equipment unit. 30. Radio access network of the claim 28, wherein the means for transmitting the identification of the restricted cell from the network of the first operator to the user equipment unit are adapted to transmit the identification of the restricted cell when it transmits a message to the user equipment unit that rejects an attempt to update the cell by the unit of User equipment 31. Control node (26) of an access network of radiocommunications of a network of a first operator that is adapted to reject an attempt to use, by a unit (30) of user equipment that is subscribed to a network of a second operator, of a restricted cell of the network of the first operator, the restricted cell being a cell in the network of the first operator for which the network of the second operator has a competing cell. 32. Control node of claim 31, in which, with respect to the user equipment unit that is subscribed to the home operator network, the control node is adapted to reject one of a cell transfer restricted, and a cell update / UTRAN Registration Area by the user equipment unit through the cell restricted. 33. Control node of claim 32, in which the control node is adapted to reject the attempt to use when the user equipment unit is in one of between a cell_Dedicated CHannel state, a cell_Forward state Access CHannel, a cell_Paging CHannel state, and a UTRAN state Registration Area_Paging CHannel. 34. Control node of claim 32, in which, when a network of a startup operator tries to perform a transfer to a target cell in the network of the first operator with with respect to the unit of user equipment that is subscribed to the network of the second operator, the control node is adapted to: obtain a Mobile Subscriber Identity International user equipment unit and identification of the target cell; use the International Mobile Subscriber Identity to determine in the network of the first operator whether the target cell it is a restricted cell; and if so; notify the home operator network that the handover is rejected.

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35. Control node of claim 34, in which the control node is adapted to obtain the Identity of International Mobile Subscriber of the User Equipment Unit and the identification of the target cell from a controller home radio network of the operator's network start, and in which the control node is adapted to use the International Mobile Subscriber Identity in order to determine if the target cell is a restricted cell, and is located in a radio network controller network control First operator 36. Control node of claim 35, in which the user equipment unit is in a state cell_Dedicated CHannel, and in which the control node is adapted to obtain the International Mobile Subscriber Identity of the User equipment unit and cell identification target from an RL SETUP REQUEST message issued by the radiocommunication network controller of the origin of the network startup operator 37. Control node of claim 35, in which the control node is adapted to obtain a code of Public Land Mobile Services Network based on Identity International Mobile Subscriber of the User Equipment unit; Y in which the control node has a table that is queried for determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer to the user equipment unit based on the code obtained from the Public Land Mobile Services Network. 38. Control node of claim 32, in which, when the user equipment unit tries to perform a UTRAN cell / Registration Area update with respect to a target cell of the network of the first operator, the control node It is adapted to: obtain a Mobile Subscriber Identity International user equipment unit and identification of the target cell; determine if the target cell is a cell restricted; and if so; provide a notification that is rejected the update.

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39. Control node of claim 38, in which the control node is adapted to obtain the Identity of International Mobile Subscriber of the user equipment unit and the identification of the target cell from a controller source radio network of a network of an operator of start; and in which the control node is a network controller of Radio control network control of the first operator. 40. Control node of claim 39, in which the user equipment unit is in one of a state cell_Forward Access CHannel and a cell_Paging CHannel state, and in the that the control node is adapted to obtain the Identity of International Mobile Subscriber of the user equipment unit and the identification of the target cell from a COMMON message TRANSPORT CHANNEL RESOURCES REQUEST issued by the controller of home radio network of the operator's network start. 41. Control node of claim 39, in which the control node is adapted to obtain a code of Public Land Mobile Services Network based on Identity International Mobile Subscriber of the User Equipment unit; Y in which the control node comprises a table that is consulted to determine if the target cell is eligible for a transfer for the user equipment unit based on the code obtained of the Public Land Mobile Services Network. 42. Control node of claim 39, in which the control node is adapted to generate a message that reject the update and report that the target cell is restricted. 43. Mobile terminal (30) that is subscribed to a network of a native operator and that, in a connection mode and before a cell reselection to a target cell, is adapted to check if the target cell is a restricted cell, so that the restricted cell at the same time is exploited by a network of a foreign operator and competes with a cell exploited by the network from the native operator, where the foreign operator has cells that They are eligible for use by the mobile terminal. 44. Mobile terminal of claim 43, in which the mobile terminal is adapted to maintain a list of restricted areas. 45. Mobile terminal of claim 44, in which the mobile terminal is adapted to update the list of restricted areas when a location record occurs on a network central. 46. Mobile terminal of claim 44, in which the mobile terminal is adapted to update the list of restricted areas upon receipt of a rejection of a UTRAN cell update / Registration Area attempt.