Enhanced reliability in mobility scenarios using multi-connectivity with packet duplication for next-generation networks

Abstract Modern cellular communication systems are expected to be capable of delivering high data rates with low latency and ultra-reliability. Using frequencies in the FR2 or millimeter wave (mmWave) range for communication can provide large data rates and cover densely populated areas, but only over short distances as they are susceptible to blockages. Such architectures lack the reliability needed to support the stricter requirements of V2X applications, especially in mobility scenarios. In this work, we study how packet duplication can be used to meet the stringent reliability and latency requirements of modern cellular networks under various mobility scenarios. Simultaneously transmitting multiple instances (duplicates) of a packet over different uncorrelated channels, although resource-consuming, could effectively reduce the packet failure probability without increasing the system complexity. This paper therefore proposes and evaluates novel enhancements to the packet duplication process to improve radio resource utilization and meet requirements under mobility and varying network load conditions.