5G Dual-Connectivity Coordination for Load-Balanced NSA Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual-connectivity systems in 5G non-standalone mode lack an efficient mechanism for network nodes to intelligently determine optimal cooperation, leading to sub-optimal performance due to load imbalances and inefficient resource allocation.
Innovation Solution
A radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) is introduced to collect and analyze state information from multiple network nodes, making informed decisions on dual-connectivity relationships by providing instructions to network nodes, optimizing load balancing and resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a 4G network node autonomously selects and requests dual-connectivity with a 5G network node, then dual-connectivity can be established, but the system lacks intelligent optimization leading to sub-optimal performance and load imbalances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a central controller as an intermediary between 4G and 5G network nodes. This controller receives state information from multiple network nodes, intelligently determines optimal dual-connectivity relationships, and provides coordination instructions. This intermediary resolves the contradiction by centralizing the complex decision-making process, improving network throughput through intelligent optimization while managing complexity centrally rather than distributing it across multiple nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where network nodes report their state information (such as load conditions, signal quality) to the central controller. The controller uses this feedback to dynamically adjust dual-connectivity configurations and provide coordination instructions. This feedback loop enables continuous optimization of network performance while adapting to changing conditions, resolving the contradiction between improving throughput and managing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If dual-connectivity is established without centralized coordination, then connection establishment is simpler, but load balancing and resource allocation become inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The central controller serves as an intermediary that maintains ease of operation by handling the complex coordination tasks automatically. Network nodes simply report their state and receive instructions, making the operation simple for individual nodes. Meanwhile, the intermediary optimizes resource allocation efficiency by intelligently analyzing overall network conditions and making coordinated decisions, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and resource efficiency.
3Device complexity
If network nodes operate independently in dual-connectivity mode, then system complexity is reduced, but overall network performance and load balancing deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple independent network nodes into a single central controller. This combining of coordination responsibilities improves network performance stability through intelligent optimization and better load balancing. The system complexity is managed by consolidating the complex decision-making logic in one centralized entity rather than requiring complex interactions between multiple independent nodes, thus resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The described technology is generally directed towards intelligent dual-connectivity for non-standalone network nodes. Network nodes can report state information to a central controller, such as a radio access network intelligent controller. The controller can determine, based on the state information reported by multiple network nodes, network nodes to cooperate in non-standalone mode. The controller can provide the network nodes with instructions to implement the controller's non-standalone relationship determinations.