Dual Connectivity Path Blockage Detection and Re-routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems with dual connectivity, conventional methods face challenges in efficiently managing routing paths and minimizing transmission delays, particularly when paths between evolved node Bs (eNBs) and terminals are blocked, leading to data reordering issues and reduced transmission efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves detecting path blockages and re-routing data through alternative paths using Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) layers, with evolved node Bs (eNBs) and terminals exchanging information to manage sequence numbers and retransmitting data packets efficiently, thereby minimizing delays and maintaining data integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is transmitted through a blocked path between eNBs and terminal, then data transmission continues, but transmission delays increase and data reordering issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection by enabling the terminal to detect path blockages and automatically switch between direct path (eNB-terminal) and alternative path (eNB-eNB-terminal) based on current channel conditions. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by maintaining transmission continuity while minimizing delays through real-time path optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the first eNB acts as a mediator to forward data packets when the direct path is blocked. The terminal detects blockages and requests alternative routing through the first eNB, which then retrieves and forwards the necessary data packets from the second eNB, ensuring continuous transmission without permanent path dependency
2Reliability
If terminal sequentially reorders data from multiple eNBs, then data integrity is maintained, but reordering complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the terminal pre-detect path blockages before data transmission issues occur. The terminal monitors path conditions and proactively identifies when the direct path between the second eNB and terminal is blocked, allowing it to prepare for alternative routing and reduce the complexity of reactive reordering operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the terminal reports path blockage detection to the network, and the network responds with alternative routing instructions. This feedback loop enables intelligent data reordering by providing information about which paths are blocked, allowing the terminal to simplify its reordering process based on known path status rather than blindly attempting to reorder all received packets
3Productivity
If dual connectivity is implemented with multiple eNBs, then transmission efficiency improves, but path management complexity and routing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the data transmission function into distinct path segments: a primary direct path (second eNB-terminal) and an alternative indirect path (first eNB-terminal). This segmentation allows independent management of each path, reducing overall routing complexity while maintaining the productivity benefits of dual connectivity through selective path usage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the first eNB to serve dual purposes: normal data transmission to the terminal and alternative data forwarding when the direct path is blocked. This universal capability reduces path management complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated backup infrastructure, as the existing first eNB can dynamically fulfill multiple routing roles
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a pre-5th-generation (5G) or 5G communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond 4th-generation (4G) communication systems such as a long term evolution (LTE) system. The disclosure includes a first evolved node B (eNB) in a communication system supporting dual connectivity. The first eNB includes a controller configured to detect that a path between a second eNB and a terminal is blocked, and a transmitter configured to transmit, to the terminal, a first data unit of a plurality of data units to be transmitted through the path between the second eNB and the terminal.