Dual Connectivity Flow Control for Latency-Aware Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual connectivity arrangements in telecommunication networks inefficiently utilize bandwidth and latency in split bearers, often relying on static routing that prioritizes bandwidth over latency, leading to idle resources and delayed packet delivery for high-priority services.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dynamic routing mechanism at the first base station to evaluate packet latency goals and route individual data packets over the leg of a split bearer with the lower connection latency, ensuring timely delivery of low-latency packets while utilizing both legs for overall bandwidth improvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If static routing is used to prioritize bandwidth utilization, then overall bandwidth efficiency is improved, but packet delivery latency worsens for high-priority services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing that adapts to real-time network conditions and packet requirements. The flow controller dynamically selects which leg (first or second) to route packets through based on current latency measurements and packet latency goals, transforming the static routing architecture into a dynamic system that can respond to changing conditions and prioritize time-sensitive traffic while maintaining bandwidth efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different routing strategies to different packets based on their specific latency requirements. Low-latency packets are routed through the leg with currently lower latency, while other packets can utilize the other leg for bandwidth optimization. This local differentiation in routing quality allows simultaneous optimization for both bandwidth efficiency and latency where needed.
2Device complexity
If data is routed only through the first base station, then routing complexity is reduced, but resource utilization worsens due to idle resources at the second base station
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic load balancing that automatically distributes traffic between the first and second legs based on real-time conditions. The flow controller monitors latency and dynamically adjusts routing decisions, enabling the second base station to actively participate in data transmission when conditions favor it, thereby improving resource utilization without requiring complex manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes both base stations universally capable of handling data transmission tasks. Instead of designating one base station as the primary route, either base station can handle packets depending on current conditions. This multi-functionality allows both resources to be utilized effectively, improving overall system productivity while maintaining relatively simple routing logic through centralized control.
3Productivity
If bandwidth optimization is prioritized over latency, then overall data throughput is improved, but service performance worsens for time-sensitive applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements quality-aware routing where different service levels receive different routing treatments. Time-sensitive packets receive preferential treatment by being routed through the lower-latency leg, while less time-sensitive traffic can utilize bandwidth-optimized paths. This local quality differentiation ensures service performance for critical applications without sacrificing overall throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the flow controller continuously monitors latency measurements and packet delivery performance. This feedback enables the system to adjust routing decisions in real-time, ensuring that time-sensitive services maintain acceptable performance levels while still achieving high overall throughput through intelligent resource allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
User equipment (UE) can be connected to both a first base station and a second base station. A flow controller at the first base station can determine packet latency goals associated with packets. The flow controller can also determine connection latencies associated with a first connection from the first base station to the UE and a second connection from the second base station to the UE, where one leg of a split bearer passes from the first base station to the UE over the first connection and another leg of the split bearer passes from the first base station to the second base station and then to the UE over the second connection. The flow controller can route packets with lower packet latency goals via the leg of the lower-latency connection, and route other packets with higher packet latency goals over the leg of the higher-latency connection.