Converged L2 Segmentation Using Pre-Processed Sequence Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication protocols, particularly in 4G and 5G, face inefficiencies in RLC header handling due to variable sizes, redundant functionalities, and lack of pre-processing, which are exacerbated by the need for high-speed data processing and varying channel conditions in beyond-5G systems like 6G, especially for immersive applications requiring low latency and high throughput.
Innovation Solution
A method and transmitter for handling segmentation in a converged Layer 2 (L2) communication network, where a L2 sequence number is assigned to protocol data units (PDUs) with indicators for last SDU, length, and segmentation status, allowing efficient pre-processing and segmentation based on grant opportunities, simplifying the protocol stack by merging PDCP and RLC functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional RLC header handling is used with variable sizes and no pre-processing, then protocol compatibility is maintained, but processing overhead and latency increase significantly for high-speed data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pre-processing of RLC headers before actual data transmission. Sequence numbers and segmentation indicators are prepared in advance, allowing the receiving end to process data more efficiently without waiting for header processing during transmission, thereby reducing latency and improving processing speed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the RLC header into fixed-size segments with specific indicators (last SDU indicator, length indicator, segmentation indicator). This segmentation allows for more efficient processing and parsing at the receiving end, reducing the time required to process variable-sized headers and improving overall data processing throughput
2Productivity
If separate PDCP and RLC processing is used, then protocol functionality is complete, but device complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges PDCP and RLC processing functionalities into a unified converged L2 processing unit. This integration eliminates redundant processing steps and reduces the number of separate processing entities, thereby simplifying the protocol stack while maintaining complete protocol functionality and improving processing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The converged L2 processing unit performs multiple functions (PDCP and RLC operations) within a single processing entity. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity by consolidating processing tasks while preserving the complete set of protocol capabilities needed for efficient data handling
3Reliability
If RLC headers are processed after grant reception, then protocol correctness is ensured, but real-time processing capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares RLC headers and sequence numbers in advance before grant reception. This preliminary preparation allows the system to maintain protocol correctness through proper header structure while enabling real-time processing by having headers ready for immediate use when data arrives, thus improving processing speed without sacrificing reliability
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a 5G communication system or a 6G communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4G communication system such as long term evolution (LTE). A method for handling segmentation in a converged layer 2 (L2) communication network is provided. The method includes assigning, by a converged L2 of a transmitter, a L2 sequence number (SN) to a protocol data unit (PDU). The L2 SN includes at least one of a last segment indication (LSI) indicating a presence of a last service data units (SDU) of the complete PDU, a length indicator exist (LIE) indicating a presence of a length indicator (LI) after a L2 header, or a SI indicating a segmentation status or stage of the complete PDU, receiving, by a medium access control (MAC) layer of the transmitter, a grant opportunity or a transmission opportunity for transferring the PDU available at the converged L2, and sending the PDU to a lower layer of the transmitter for transmission to a receiver with or without segmentation based on the grant or a transmission opportunity.