DU Sidelink Resource Allocation in 5G CU-DU Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no relevant scheme for designing an appropriate Sidelink (SL) resource allocation mechanism in a Central Unit (CU)-Distributed Unit (DU) separated architecture of a 5G New Radio (NR) system.
Innovation Solution
A resource allocation method is introduced where the Distributed Unit (DU) determines the SL resource allocation mode based on a request message from the User Equipment (UE) and local policies, and allocates SL resources to the UE according to the determined mode and UE context information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized architecture (gNB) is used for 5G base station, then SL resource allocation can be performed appropriately according to UE request, but the system lacks flexibility and scalability
Solution Approach 1:
The base station is segmented into two functional units: CU (Central Unit) and DU (Distributed Unit). The CU handles control plane functions and higher-layer protocols, while the DU handles user plane functions and physical layer processing. This segmentation allows SL resource allocation to be distributed across multiple units, improving adaptability while managing complexity through functional separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional aspect to base station architecture by separating control and user plane functions across different logical and physical locations. The CU can be centrally located while DUs are distributed, adding a spatial and functional dimension that enables flexible SL resource allocation without requiring a completely new architecture.
2Productivity
If SL resource allocation is scheduled by network, then resource allocation efficiency is improved, but the system requires more complex signaling and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the network (CU) provides SL resource allocation configuration and parameters to the UE, but the actual resource selection and allocation is performed autonomously by the UE based on pre-configured pools. This intermediary approach maintains network control for efficiency while reducing signaling complexity by allowing UE autonomy in execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The network performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring SL resource pools, allocation modes, and parameters before actual SL communication occurs. The UE then uses these pre-configured elements to autonomously select and allocate resources, reducing the need for complex real-time signaling while maintaining efficient resource utilization.
3Loss of energy
If SL resource allocation is selected by UE on its own, then signaling overhead is reduced, but resource allocation optimization and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE reports channel conditions, buffer status, and resource usage to the network (CU). The CU uses this feedback to optimize SL resource pool configurations and allocation parameters, ensuring reliable resource allocation while maintaining low signaling overhead through efficient feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The SL resource allocation system is made dynamic, allowing the UE to autonomously select resources from configured pools based on current channel conditions and traffic requirements. The network can dynamically update resource pool configurations and allocation modes based on feedback, balancing autonomy with optimization while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A resource allocation method and a communication device are provided. The resource allocation method of the present disclosure is operable by a base station, the base station includes a Central Unit (CU) and a Distributed Unit (DU) connected to the CU. The method includes: determining, by the DU, a Sidelink (SL) resource allocation mode; and allocating, by the DU, SL resource for a UE according to the determined resource allocation mode and User Equipment (UE) context information.