Poster Abstract: O-RAN Signaling Optimizations for Improved IoT Handover Performance in 5G Networks

IoT systems require a wireless infrastructure that supports 5G devices, including handovers between heterogeneous and/or small cell radio access networks. These networks are subject to increased radio link failures and loss of IoT network function. 3GPP new radio (NR) applications include multihoming, i.e., simultaneously connecting devices, and handover, i.e., changing the point of access to the network. This work leverages the open radio access network (O-RAN) alliance, which specifies a new open architecture with intelligent controllers, to improve handover management. A new feedback-based time-to-trigger (TTT) handover mechanism is introduced. Improved throughput and reduced radio link failures over other techniques were achieved.