Core Network Node Endpoint Pair Selection for QoS Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication networks face challenges in selecting optimal transport endpoint pairs between Radio Access Network (RAN) and Core Network (CN) for user plane sessions, especially when multiple endpoints are involved, which affects Quality of Service (QoS) and data stream performance due to varying path characteristics such as latency and bandwidth.

Innovation Solution

A method is implemented where the core network node identifies and selects the best RAN/CN endpoint pairs based on available transport endpoints and their characteristics, optimizing QoS by determining the most suitable path for user plane sessions, maximizing data streams while meeting specific requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple transport endpoint pairs are used between RAN and CN, then data stream capacity increases, but path selection complexity and QoS management difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata stream capacityVSAvoidendpoint pair selection complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables autonomous endpoint pair selection where the RAN and CN independently identify available endpoints and negotiate optimal pairings based on their respective capabilities and current network state, eliminating the need for complex centralized control mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts selection criteria parameters such as latency thresholds, bandwidth requirements, and load balancing weights based on real-time network conditions, allowing the system to adapt to changing demands without increasing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If optimal endpoint pairs are selected based on path characteristics, then QoS performance improves, but the overhead of characterizing and monitoring paths increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveQoS performanceVSAvoidsignaling overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary path characterization during endpoint registration and initialization phases, storing baseline metrics such as latency, bandwidth, and reliability characteristics so that subsequent QoS decisions can be made using pre-computed data rather than real-time measurements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where QoS performance metrics are continuously monitored and used to adjust endpoint pair selections, with the feedback loop optimized to trigger re-evaluation only when performance degradation thresholds are exceeded, reducing unnecessary signaling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If RAN and CN independently select endpoints, then selection flexibility increases, but coordination difficulty and potential mismatches increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveendpoint selection flexibilityVSAvoidcoordination difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic negotiation protocol where the RAN and CN exchange capability information and preferred endpoint lists, then iteratively converge on mutually optimal endpoint pairs based on combined criteria, allowing both sides to maintain independence while achieving coordinated selection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs a universal endpoint interface standard that enables different RAN and CN implementations to interoperate using common selection criteria and protocols, allowing independent selection logic while ensuring compatibility through standardized interaction mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3632176B1Core network node, carrier comprising a computer program, computer program and method therein for obtaining a decision of a CN/ran endpoint pair for user plane session in a radio communications network

Publication Date: 2022.07.13 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

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AI summary

A method performed by a method performed by a core network node for obtaining a decision of a Core Network, CN,/Radio Access Network, RAN, endpoint pair for a user plane session between a RAN and a CN in a radio communications network is provided. The RAN comprises multiple RAN transport endpoints, RAN endpoints, and the CN comprises multiple CN transport endpoints, CN endpoints. The core network node obtains (1101) identifiers of available CN endpoints in the CN, and obtains (1102) identifiers of available RAN endpoints in the RAN. The available CN endpoints and available RAN endpoints comprises a number of possible transport endpoint pairs between the RAN and the CN, CN/RAN endpoint pairs. The core network node further obtains (1103) characteristics of a respective transport path of the number of possible CN/RAN endpoint pairs. The core network node then obtains (1108) a decision of a CN/RAN endpoint pair out of the number of possible CN/RAN endpoint pairs, based on the obtained characteristics of the respective transport path of the number of possible CN/RAN endpoint pairs. The CN/RAN endpoint pair is selected for the user plane session between the RAN and the CN in the radio communications network.