Controller Function Discovery in Wireless Backhaul Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly those using new radio (NR) technology, face challenges in efficiently managing and discovering controller functions for wireless backhaul networks, which limits scalability and integration of relays across different vendors, and is constrained by the local scope of controller functions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for discovering a controller function (CF) in wireless backhaul networks using cellular radio access technology, where a new relay establishes an RRC link with a parent relay, receives a RAN-area identifier, and connects to the CF through a server, allowing for the resolution of the CF's address or name, enabling scalable and standardized integration of relays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a local scope controller function is used in wireless backhaul networks, then network management can be simplified within a limited area, but scalability and integration of relays across different vendors are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates between relays and the controller function. The server stores mapping information between relay identifiers and controller function identifiers, enabling relays to discover and connect to the appropriate controller function without direct local knowledge. This intermediary approach maintains simple local controller functions while enabling scalable multi-vendor relay integration through centralized information management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimensional layer to the network architecture by introducing a server-based information layer. Instead of relying solely on local controller-function-to-relay mappings, the system creates a separate dimension of identifier mapping stored on the server. This additional layer enables relays from different vendors to be integrated without modifying existing controller functions, resolving the contradiction between local simplicity and global scalability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If relays use standardized CF discovery methods, then integration across different vendors is improved, but network management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex identifier mapping functionality from individual relays and controller functions, centralizing it in a separate server. Relays only need to perform simple operations: connect to the parent relay, request CF identifier from the server using the provided relay identifier, and connect to the CF. This extraction reduces complexity at the relay and controller levels while maintaining standardized discovery processes for multi-vendor integration.
3Speed
If relays connect directly to CF without server mediation, then connection speed is faster, but relay integration and scalability are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-storing mapping information between relay identifiers and controller function identifiers on the server. When a relay needs to connect to a CF, it simply queries the server with the relay identifier and receives the corresponding CF identifier immediately. This preliminary preparation of mapping data enables fast connection establishment without compromising scalability, as the server can efficiently resolve identifiers using the pre-stored information.
Data Source
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AI summary
Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatus for discovering a controller function for wireless backhaul using cellular radio access technology (RAT) such as communications systems operating according to new radio (NR) technologies. For example, such a method may include connecting to a parent relay that provides connectivity to a controller function (CF) of a network, receiving, from the parent relay, information regarding at least one of: the CF or a radio access network (RAN) area covered by the CF, obtaining an identifier of the CF using the information, and connecting to the CF using the identifier.