Dual Connectivity Path Selection Service for 5G Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The development of Next Generation (NG) wireless networks, such as 5G NR, faces challenges in optimizing dual connectivity, including determining when dual connectivity is desirable, managing control signaling, and selecting optimal network paths, especially in complex scenarios involving multiple connections and resource management.
Innovation Solution
A dual connectivity path selection service is implemented in network devices, which use mapping information and measurement reports to select optimal network paths or segments based on criteria like quality of service, subscriber type, and application requirements, enabling efficient resource allocation and path management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dual connectivity is implemented to increase data transfer rates and throughput, then network performance and resource utilization improve, but device complexity and control signaling management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a path selection function (PSF) as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of dual connectivity path selection. The PSF receives measurement reports from multiple sources (gNB, eNB, UPF) and autonomously determines optimal uplink and downlink paths, thereby mediating between the complex multi-connectivity environment and simplified device operation. This intermediary handles the control signaling management burden, allowing dual connectivity to operate efficiently without overwhelming device complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple network paths are managed simultaneously for dual connectivity, then resource utilization improves, but path selection and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection where the PSF continuously monitors measurement reports and adapts path configurations in real-time based on current network conditions. The system dynamically determines which paths (MCG, SCG, or non-split) to use for uplink and downlink traffic based on varying channel quality, load conditions, and service requirements. This dynamic approach enables efficient resource utilization across multiple paths while the PSF manages the selection complexity centrally, preventing device-level complexity from scaling with the number of active paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the path selection and management functionality into a separate PSF component that operates independently from the core device operations. By dividing the complex task of multi-path management into distinct functional segments (measurement collection, path determination, configuration management), the system can handle multiple network paths efficiently without proportionally increasing overall device complexity. The segmentation allows each component to focus on specific aspects of path management.
3Reliability
If optimal path selection is implemented based on multiple criteria, then network performance improves, but measurement and decision-making complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the PSF as a universal decision-making entity that handles multiple types of measurement reports (from gNB, eNB, UPF) and applies unified path selection logic across different scenarios. The PSF universally processes various input types (signal quality, load information, service requirements) through a single decision framework, thereby improving network performance through consistent optimal path selection while avoiding the need for separate complex measurement and decision mechanisms for each scenario. This multi-functional approach consolidates measurement and decision-making complexity into one versatile component.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium are described in which a dual connectivity path selection service is provided. The service may select a network path for dual connectivity. The service may use mapping information that may correlate network parameters and values to dual connectivity configurations. The service may compare parameters included in a configuration request pertaining to end devices with the mapping information for selection of a dual connectivity configuration.