Converged RAN-Core Functions for Multi-Access 5G Streaming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G networks struggle to support complex applications and services due to high infrastructure complexity and energy consumption, and many user equipment (UE) devices lack the capability to simultaneously access multiple access networks, limiting their performance.
Innovation Solution
Converge network functions across radio access networks (RAN) and core networks (CN) to minimize infrastructure complexity and enable simultaneous access to multiple access networks by combining policy management, session management, and user plane management functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network functions are separated across RAN and CN, then each network element can be optimized independently, but infrastructure complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by consolidating multiple network functions (policy management, session management, user plane management) into a single converged network function that operates at the network edge. This combines previously separated RAN and CN functions, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining optimization capabilities through a unified architecture that processes all user data through a single path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple access networks are supported simultaneously, then network versatility and user performance improve, but device complexity and capability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The converged network function acts as an intermediary between multiple access networks and user equipment. It receives data from different access technologies (wireless, wired, satellite), processes it through unified policy and session management, and forwards it to the appropriate destination. This mediator approach allows the network to support multiple access types without requiring each individual device to manage them directly.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If network functions are converged at the edge, then energy consumption is reduced, but the scale and distribution of network deployment becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by implementing the converged network function at distributed edge locations rather than centralizing it. Each edge node independently performs convergence operations for local users, allowing the system to scale horizontally across multiple sites. This segmentation of the convergence function across distributed edge nodes reduces overall energy consumption by processing data closer to sources while simplifying deployment through standardized modular units.
Data Source
AI summary
A n apparatus includes a transceiver. The transceiver is configured to receive, from a service provider, a trigger to initiate convergence of network functions across a radio access network (RAN) and a core network (CN). The apparatus also includes a processor operably coupled to the transceiver. The processor is configured to, based on receiving the trigger, instantiate one or more converged network functions that perform combined operations in the CN and the RAN. The combined operations relate to at least one of policy management, session management, or user plane management. The processor is also configured to update one or more network elements with configuration information corresponding to the instantiated converged network functions for processing user session traffic.