Dynamic Functional Split for Central Base Station Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
In centralized radio access networks, determining the optimal protocol split between central and distributed units is challenging due to the need for balancing capacity links while ensuring Quality of Service, especially when membership changes occur within clusters of distributed base station units.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a cluster of distributed base station units is identified based on neighboring relationships, and a functional split is dynamically adjusted by implementing different sets of protocol functions between the central base station unit and the distributed units, with a handover process initiated when new units join or leave the cluster to maintain efficient network configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If more protocol layers are implemented in the central unit, then coordination across multiple distributed units is improved and Quality of Service is improved, but capacity link requirements between central unit and distributed units increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic functional splitting where the boundary between central unit and distributed unit protocol functions is not fixed but can be adjusted based on network conditions, cluster membership changes, and capacity requirements. This allows the system to optimize the balance between coordination capability and link capacity requirements in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of functional split configuration based on detected cluster membership changes. When distributed units join or leave clusters, the patent modifies which protocol functions are implemented centrally versus distributedly, thereby adapting capacity link requirements to actual network topology and service needs.
2Device complexity
If a fixed functional split is used between central and distributed units, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to network changes and cluster membership variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfiguration capability that allows the functional split to adapt automatically when cluster membership changes occur. The system monitors distributed unit join/leave events and dynamically adjusts protocol function distribution, maintaining optimal performance without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automatic detection of cluster membership changes and autonomous reconfiguration of functional splits. The network manages itself by detecting topology changes and adjusting protocol function distribution without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining adaptability while controlling complexity through automation.
3Reliability
If protocol functions are distributed to improve Quality of Service, then coordination capability is improved, but the capacity required for links between central and distributed units increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the functional split parameters based on cluster membership and network conditions. When distributed units are added or removed from clusters, the system adjusts which protocol layers are implemented centrally versus distributedly, optimizing the trade-off between coordination capability and link capacity consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method in a cellular telecommunications network having a first central base station unit connecting to each of a plurality of distributed base station units, including identifying a cluster of distributed base station units within the plurality of distributed base station units, wherein each member of the cluster has a neighboring relationship with another member of the cluster that satisfies a threshold; using a first functional split in which a first set of protocol functions are implemented in the first central base station unit and a second set of protocol functions are implemented by each member of the cluster of distributed base station units; identifying a change in the membership of the cluster of distributed base station units; and, in response, causing the first central base station unit and each member of the cluster of distributed base station units to implement a second functional split in which a third set of protocol functions are implemented in the first central base station unit and a fourth set of protocol functions are implemented by each member of the cluster of distributed base station units.