Base Station Network Slicing for Multi-Operator Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication network infrastructures face challenges in managing the increasing communication volume from a growing number of mobile and IoT devices, particularly in efficiently utilizing and securing communication resources across different network operators and devices.
Innovation Solution
Implementing network slicing technology, where a base station can dynamically switch between two logical sub-networks, allowing it to communicate with different sets of terminals using distinct access keys and wireless standards, and adapt data capacity based on demand, leveraging SDN controllers and existing WiFi infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a base station serves multiple network operators and device types simultaneously, then resource utilization improves, but network security and access control become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the communication network into multiple logical subnetworks (network slices), each dedicated to specific network operators or device types. The base station is configured to operate in different modes, where each mode corresponds to a specific logical subnetwork with dedicated access keys and communication parameters. This segmentation allows the base station to serve multiple operators securely without mixing traffic, resolving the contradiction between versatility and security management complexity.
2Productivity
If network slicing is implemented to manage different device sets, then resource allocation efficiency improves, but base station configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the base station to dynamically switch between different operational modes corresponding to different logical subnetworks. The base station can be assigned to different network slices based on demand, with the ability to activate or deactivate specific communication interfaces and access keys as needed. This dynamic reconfiguration allows efficient resource allocation across different operators and device types without requiring permanent complex configuration for all possible scenarios simultaneously.
3Reliability
If separate communication networks are provided for different operators, then network security improves, but infrastructure cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple logical subnetworks onto a single physical base station infrastructure. The base station is configured with multiple communication interfaces that can be activated or deactivated based on the operational mode. When serving a specific network operator, only the relevant interface and access key are activated, while other resources remain dormant. This merging approach provides the security benefits of separate networks while avoiding the cost of duplicating physical infrastructure for each operator.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method (100) for operating a communication network (200) having a base station (201), wherein the method comprises: associating (101) the base station (201) with a first sub-network (213) of the communication network (200) and operating the first sub-network (213) of the communication network (200) by means of a management entity (211), wherein the base station (201) is designed to communicate with a first set of communication terminals (203a) during operation of the first sub-network (213); and associating (103) the base station (201) with a second sub-network (215) of the communication network (200) and operating the second sub-network (215) of the communication network (200) by means of the management entity (211), wherein the base station (201) is designed to communicate with a second set of communication terminals (203b) during operation of the second sub-network (215).