Cloud-Based Wireless Access Point Mobility Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LTE wireless access infrastructures are costly and complex due to the need for multiple dedicated network nodes, with standardization making it difficult to scale and utilize resources efficiently, often resulting in limited capacity and service denials even when other nodes are underutilized.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-based wireless access solution that integrates access points (APs) with base-station and core-network functions, using a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server for IP address allocation and a layer 2 virtualized switch to manage mobility and packet functions, allowing for efficient resource utilization and seamless handovers between APs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dedicated network nodes are deployed in conventional LTE infrastructure, then network functionality and service coverage are improved, but system complexity and deployment cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple dedicated network nodes (MME, SGW, PGW, PCRF) into a single integrated network appliance that provides all core network functions. This merging approach maintains comprehensive network functionality while significantly reducing system complexity and deployment cost compared to conventional distributed architectures.
Solution Approach 2:
The network appliance is designed as a universal platform capable of performing multiple core network functions simultaneously - mobility management, packet routing, policy control, and charging. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated nodes for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full service capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If standardized network nodes and interfaces are used in conventional LTE infrastructure, then compatibility and interoperability are ensured, but scalability and resource utilization efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The network appliance implements dynamic resource allocation and flexible configuration that allows the system to adapt to varying traffic demands and service requirements. Resources can be dynamically assigned to different network functions based on current needs, enabling efficient scaling while maintaining compatibility through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of operational parameters such as capacity allocation, service priorities, and resource distribution without requiring hardware changes. This parameter flexibility enables the network to scale efficiently and adapt to different deployment scenarios while maintaining interface compatibility with standard LTE infrastructure.
3Reliability
If dedicated network nodes are deployed in conventional LTE infrastructure, then service coverage is improved, but resource utilization efficiency and capacity flexibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The network appliance implements resource pooling and dynamic allocation where computing and networking resources can be allocated to different network functions as needed. When certain functions require more capacity, resources are dynamically assigned; when demand decreases, resources are released for other uses. This eliminates the waste inherent in dedicated nodes that maintain fixed resource allocations regardless of actual demand.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide an access point (AP) that includes a set of one or more base-station functions configured to connect a user equipment (UE) to the AP over a wireless communication interface; and a set of one or more core-network functions configured to provide services to the UE. The AP allocates an Internet Protocol (IP) address to the UE by using at least one Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server that is external to the AP.