Autonomous RAN Slices for Cellular Backhaul Failures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cellular networks are unable to operate independently when the connection to the backhaul is severed, leading to loss of wired and/or wireless connectivity, which can be caused by natural disasters or power outages.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an on-demand, fully autonomous RAN slice that allows UEs to communicate via local RAN nodes, utilizing point-to-point links, multi-RAT devices, and satellite backhauls to maintain connectivity during backhaul failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RAN nodes operate with traditional backhaul dependency, then network architecture simplicity is maintained, but network reliability deteriorates during backhaul failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into isolated RAN node groups that can operate independently when backhaul is severed. Each RAN node becomes a self-contained unit capable of local communication, dividing the network into functional segments that maintain operation despite backhaul failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring RAN nodes with disaster slice capabilities and local communication protocols. When backhaul failure occurs, these pre-prepared functions are activated immediately, enabling rapid transition to independent operation without requiring complex real-time decision-making.
2Reliability
If RAN nodes implement independent operation capability, then network reliability during disasters is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operation modes where RAN nodes can switch between traditional backhaul-dependent mode and independent disaster slice mode. This dynamic capability allows nodes to adapt their functionality based on backhaul availability, maintaining simplicity during normal operation while enabling complexity only when needed for disaster resilience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential communication functions needed for disaster operation into a separate disaster slice that can function independently of the full network stack. This extraction allows RAN nodes to maintain full functionality while having a simplified subset available for immediate local operation during backhaul failures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional network architecture is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but adaptability during backhaul failures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality in RAN nodes that can operate both as traditional backhaul-connected nodes and as independent disaster slice nodes. This universal capability allows the same hardware and software to adapt to different operational contexts without requiring separate specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables RAN nodes to automatically detect backhaul failures and activate disaster slice functionality without requiring manual intervention or complex network management decisions. The system self-adjusts its operation mode based on detected conditions, maintaining ease of operation while improving adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, radio access nodes (RANs) instantiating network slices when backhaul connections are severed. The network slices may include functionality that allows user equipments (UEs) attached to the RAN nodes to communicate with each other. RAN nodes may query other RAN nodes and UEs to determine if an alternate backhaul is available. Other embodiments are disclosed.