Deterministic Network Operation Using 5G Terminal-RAN DetNet Functions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G DetNet systems lack essential DetNet functionalities such as packet replication, elimination, and ordering, and do not support edge nodes and fully managed routers, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
Implement a method that replaces 5G network functions with DetNet functionalities, creating a logical DetNet node using a terminal device and radio access network combination, and establish deterministic communication connections to operate a deterministic network efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 5G systems emulate DetNet functions using 5G TSN architecture, then 5G network compatibility is maintained, but essential DetNet functionalities (packet replication, elimination, ordering, explicit routing, fully managed routers, edge nodes) are not provided and significant delays occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the DetNet functionality into two distinct parts: a centralized controller that handles control plane functions (routing, replication, elimination, ordering) and data plane nodes that handle actual data forwarding. This segmentation allows the control plane to be fully DetNet-compliant while the data plane leverages existing 5G infrastructure, resolving the contradiction between maintaining 5G compatibility and providing complete DetNet functionality without significant delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized controller as an intermediary between the DetNet service requirements and the 5G data plane. This controller implements the missing DetNet functions (service sublayer, forwarding sublayer, edge nodes) and translates DetNet requirements into 5G-compatible configurations, enabling full DetNet functionality while avoiding the delays associated with emulating these functions in the 5G data plane itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 5G systems implement DetNet functions through emulation in the data plane, then 5G architecture is preserved, but device complexity increases and cost-effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized controller serves as an intermediary that absorbs the complexity of DetNet implementation. Instead of requiring 5G data plane nodes to emulate DetNet functions (which would increase device complexity), the controller handles all complex DetNet operations (packet replication, elimination, ordering, explicit routing) while the data plane nodes perform simple forwarding based on controller instructions, maintaining 5G architecture simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the 5G data plane to operate in a self-service manner for data forwarding, using standard 5G protocols and infrastructure. The complex DetNet functions are offloaded to the centralized controller, allowing the data plane to focus on its core forwarding function without the complexity of emulating DetNet services, thereby improving cost-effectiveness while maintaining adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If a centralized controller architecture is used for DetNet in 5G, then control over DetNet functions is improved, but support for edge nodes and DetNet nodes behind user equipment is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized controller is designed with universal functionality that can manage both traditional DetNet nodes and edge nodes behind user equipment. The controller implements a unified control plane that can configure and manage DetNet services across diverse network topologies, including edge computing scenarios, while maintaining centralized control. This allows the system to support edge nodes and UE-based DetNet nodes without sacrificing centralized control capabilities.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating a network (10) by means of an electronic computing device (12), comprising the steps of: providing a first deterministic communication connection (18) between a deterministic functional unit (20) and a terminal (14) of the electronic computing device (12); providing a third communication connection (22) between a radio access network (16) of the electronic computing device (12) and the terminal (14) by means of the electronic computing device (12); providing a second deterministic communication connection (24) between the radio access network (16) and a deterministic network (26) by means of the electronic computing device (12); and transmitting a data packet from the deterministic functional unit (20) to the deterministic network (26) or vice versa by means of the electronic computing device (12).Furthermore, the invention relates to a computer program product, a computer-readable storage medium and an electronic computing device (12).