Backhaul Load Control for Dual-Connectivity Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increased load on the backhaul interface due to dual-connectivity in cellular networks can strain the limited capacity of the backhaul interface, potentially restricting key control signaling between the master Node-B (MeNB) and the core network.
Innovation Solution
A computing system monitors the backhaul load and imposes limits on establishing secondary connectivity for UEs, such as capping the number of UEs or secondary connections, to manage the load and prevent congestion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dual-connectivity is configured to increase UE data rate, then peak data rate is improved, but backhaul interface load increases and may become overloaded
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the configuration of dual-connectivity based on monitored backhaul load conditions. When backhaul load exceeds a threshold, the MeNB modifies or releases secondary connectivity configurations for UEs, thereby adapting the system state to prevent backhaul overload while managing peak data rate capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by monitoring backhaul load metrics and adjusting dual-connectivity configuration parameters accordingly. This includes modifying the extent of secondary connectivity allowed, which directly controls the trade-off between peak data rate and backhaul load
2Quantity of substance
If secondary connectivity is established for multiple UEs, then network capacity is improved, but control signaling quality deteriorates due to backhaul congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The MeNB implements a feedback mechanism by monitoring backhaul load conditions and using this information to control the configuration of secondary connectivity. When backhaul load indicates potential signaling quality degradation, the system responds by adjusting the number or extent of secondary connections, thereby maintaining control signaling reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically controls the extent of dual-connectivity configuration based on real-time backhaul load monitoring, adjusting the number of UEs that can establish secondary connectivity to maintain acceptable control signaling quality while maximizing network capacity
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system to control configuration of dual-connectivity for UEs served by a first NB. A computing system monitors the level of load on a backhaul interface through which the first NB communicates with a core network. And based on the monitored level of backhaul load, the computing system imposes a limit on establishing secondary connectivity with one or more second NBs for one or more UEs served by the first NB. For instance, when the backhaul interface through which the first NB communicates with the core network becomes threshold highly loaded with communication traffic, the computing system could responsively impose a maximum cap on the number of the first-NB-served UEs that will be provided with secondary connectivity by one or more second NBs and/or on the number of secondary connections that will be established for UEs served by the first NB.