Access Network Service-Based Interface for Flexible RAN Virtualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture in mobile access networks limits flexibility and increases capital and operating expenditures (CAPEX and OPEX) when adding new services, particularly in virtualized network functions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a service-based architecture (SBA) in the access network, utilizing service operations and defined parameters for network functions, with an access network repository function (ANRF) for service registration and discovery, to facilitate flexible RAN virtualization and reduce costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture is used in mobile access networks, then network functions can be implemented, but flexibility is limited and CAPEX and OPEX increase when adding new services
Solution Approach 1:
The access network is segmented into control plane functions (CU-CP) and user plane functions (CU-UP), with further division into central unit (CU), distributed unit (DU), and radio unit (RU). This segmentation allows independent evolution and deployment of different network functions, improving flexibility while managing complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The service-based interface architecture provides universal communication protocols that can support multiple services and network functions through standardized interfaces. The ANRF and NSSF components enable universal service discovery and network slice selection across different service types, reducing the need for service-specific customizations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture is used in mobile access networks, then network functions can be implemented, but CAPEX and OPEX increase when adding new services
Solution Approach 1:
The architecture enables dynamic parameter changes in network functions through service-based interfaces, allowing services to be added, modified, or removed by changing configuration parameters rather than deploying new hardware. The NSSF supports network slice selection based on service parameters, enabling flexible service addition without proportional CAPEX increase.
3Adaptability or versatility
If peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture is used in mobile access networks, then network functions can be implemented, but CAPEX and OPEX increase when adding new services
Solution Approach 1:
Virtualized network functions can be copied and deployed across multiple physical platforms without requiring proportional increases in OPEX. The service-based architecture with containerization enables rapid replication of network functions, reducing operational costs through efficient resource utilization and automated deployment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If service-based architecture (SBA) is implemented in access network, then RAN virtualization flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ANRF serves as an intermediary component that manages service registration, discovery, and selection in the SBA-based access network. This intermediary abstracts the complexity of service interactions, providing simplified interfaces for network functions while maintaining the flexibility benefits of SBA and virtualization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a network function of an access network for supporting an initial access of UE through the steps of: receiving a request for a first service operation for initial context setup from an AMF of a core network through an interface of service-based architecture between the AMF and the network function; and establishing a bearer related to a user plane function in the access network based on information included in the first service operation are provided.