Automated Anchor Selection for LTE-5G NSA Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless network environments with Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture, the manual selection of LTE base stations as anchors for 5G base stations is inefficient and does not adapt dynamically to changing network conditions, leading to suboptimal associations and potential connectivity issues.
Innovation Solution
An automated system, Anchor Analysis System, selects suitable LTE base stations as anchors for 5G base stations based on geographic location, performance metrics, and historical handover data, allowing for real-time refinement of anchor designations and dynamic network adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual selection of LTE base stations as anchors is used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but association reliability and network adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated anchor selection where the network infrastructure itself performs the selection process using pre-configured criteria and real-time data, eliminating dependence on manual operator intervention while maintaining operational simplicity through self-service mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
Selection criteria, including geographic parameters, performance thresholds, and handover patterns, are pre-configured in the system before deployment. This preliminary configuration enables rapid automated decision-making without requiring complex real-time analysis, thus improving reliability while controlling system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual selection of anchors is used, then implementation is simpler, but adaptability to changing network conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors network conditions including handover performance, signal quality, and load metrics, using this feedback to dynamically adjust anchor selections. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the network to adapt automatically to changing conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor selection is transformed from a static manual configuration to a dynamic automated process that continuously adapts to changing network conditions. The system can reassign anchors in real-time based on current performance metrics, ensuring optimal network operation while managing complexity through systematic evaluation criteria
3Productivity
If automated anchor selection is implemented, then productivity and network performance improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated selection process is divided into distinct functional modules: data collection from multiple sources, evaluation against pre-configured criteria, decision-making algorithms, and execution of anchor assignments. This segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized and managed, improving overall productivity while controlling system complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automated anchor selection intermediary layer between the LTE and 5G networks that manages the complexity of real-time decision-making. This intermediary processes information from multiple sources, applies selection criteria, and coordinates anchor assignments, thereby improving network operation efficiency while containing system complexity within a dedicated management function
Data Source
AI summary
A system described herein may provide a technique for the intelligent, automated, and dynamic selection of anchor evolved Node Bs (“eNBs”) for Next Generation Node Bs (“gNBs”) in a Non-Standalone (“NSA”) wireless network environment. An eNB may be selected as an anchor eNB based on distance to a particular gNB, and one or more sectors of the anchor eNB may be selected as anchors based on coverage areas associated with the sectors. Sectors of additional eNBs may be identified based on frequent handovers between the identified sectors of the anchor eNB and sectors of the additional eNBs. Selected eNBs and/or sectors may be notified of the designation as an anchor, and may thus provide gNB carrier information to connected User Equipment (“UE”), which may facilitate the connection of such UEs to the gNB.