Dynamic CPU Core Allocation for RAN Baseband Workload Pool Resizing

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Solution Overview

Problem

In radio access network (RAN) environments, static CPU resource allocation leads to underutilization and inefficiency due to mismatch between predefined allocation and actual network parameters, resulting in suboptimal processing efficiency and increased power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic resource management system that allocates and reallocates CPU cores based on real-time network usage parameters, allowing floating cores to shift between layers (L1 and L2) to optimize resource utilization and reduce power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If static CPU resource allocation is implemented based on predefined deployment model, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but CPU resource utilization efficiency deteriorates and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCPU allocation simplicityVSAvoidCPU resource utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic CPU core allocation where CPU cores are not permanently assigned to specific layers but are dynamically allocated based on real-time workload demands. The network management entity monitors network conditions and reallocates CPU cores between L1 and L2 layers as needed, transforming the static allocation model into a dynamic one that adapts to changing network conditions, thereby improving CPU resource utilization efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through automated management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If static CPU core split is used in BB pod, then reliability is improved through guaranteed resource allocation, but adaptability to different network conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation guaranteeVSAvoidnetwork condition adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the allocation parameter from fixed static assignment to dynamic assignment based on network usage parameters. The network management entity monitors network conditions and adjusts CPU core allocation parameters in real-time, allowing the system to adapt to different network scenarios (high traffic, low traffic, peak hours, off-peak hours) while maintaining reliable service through centralized control and monitoring mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If dimensioning is performed based on expectation rather than real-time parameters, then ease of manufacture is improved, but loss of energy increases due to underutilization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork dimensioning simplicityVSAvoidCPU power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network management entity continuously monitors actual network usage parameters and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust CPU core allocation. The system collects performance data, analyzes network conditions, and reallocates CPU resources accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy utilization by matching CPU allocation to actual network demand rather than relying on preliminary expectations or static dimensioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20240160492A1System and method for radio access network baseband workload pool resizing
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 RAKUTEN SYMPHONY INC
  • US20240160492A1 patent drawing
  • US20240160492A1 patent drawing
  • US20240160492A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for resource management in a network environment includes at least one memory storing instructions and at least one processor configured to execute the instructions to allocate at least one first central processing unit (CPU) core to perform tasks corresponding to a first layer of the network environment, allocate at least one second CPU core to perform tasks corresponding to a second layer of the network environment, allocate at least one third CPU core to perform tasks corresponding to the second layer of the network environment, determine at least one network usage parameter corresponding to usage of at least one of the first layer and the second layer, and reallocate at least one of the at least one third CPU core to perform tasks corresponding to the first layer of the network environment based on the at least one network usage parameter.