Dynamic RU Protocol Switching for 5G and Wi-Fi Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G RAN systems lack flexibility in managing resources for multiple protocols, particularly in supporting both 5G and Wi-Fi networks, leading to inefficient resource allocation and network load balancing.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Software-Defined RAN Intelligent Controller (SD-RIC) to dynamically switch between Radio Access Technologies (RATs) on a single Radio Unit (RU), allowing for adaptive configuration of static and dynamic radios to optimize resource allocation based on load conditions and user needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single protocol RIC is used to manage radio resources, then the system architecture is simple and manageable, but the system cannot dynamically support multiple protocols (5G and Wi-Fi) leading to inefficient resource allocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal RIC architecture that can manage multiple protocols (5G NR and Wi-Fi) through a single unified platform. The RIC is designed with protocol-agnostic interfaces and a common resource management framework that can dynamically configure and switch between different radio access technologies, eliminating the need for separate dedicated RIC instances for each protocol while maintaining comprehensive control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic protocol switching capability where the RIC can real-time reconfigure radio units to switch between 5G and Wi-Fi protocols based on network conditions and service requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the network to optimize resource allocation by selecting the most appropriate protocol for current load conditions, user needs, and available spectrum resources.
2Adaptability or versatility
If static radio configuration is used, then the system is stable and easy to manage, but the system cannot adapt to changing network conditions and user demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic radio configuration where the RIC can real-time adjust protocol selection and resource allocation based on changing network conditions. The system monitors metrics such as network load, signal quality, and service requirements to dynamically switch between 5G and Wi-Fi protocols, ensuring optimal resource utilization while maintaining service reliability through continuous adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the RIC receives real-time reports from radio units and core network elements about network conditions and service quality. This feedback information is used to make informed decisions about protocol switching and resource allocation, ensuring that dynamic changes maintain or improve service reliability rather than introducing instability.
3Productivity
If separate dedicated RIC instances are used for each protocol, then each protocol can be optimized independently, but the overall system complexity increases and resource allocation becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate 5G and Wi-Fi RIC instances into a single unified RIC platform. This consolidation allows for shared resources, common management functions, and coordinated protocol selection, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize each protocol through dedicated configuration capabilities and algorithmic control.
Data Source
AI summary
System, methods, and computer-readable media for switching a dynamic radio of a single RU between Radio Access Technology (RAT) protocols based on a Software-Defined RAN intelligent controller (SD-RIC). The SD-RIC efficiently assigning RAN resources by converting a radio access point to either 5G or Wi-Fi based on the load conditions and the number of users seen on the network, so that it appropriately servers the customer and end devices. To determine the load conditions may be based on active users on a particular cell, and then the resource utilization cue is a connection latency. A single radio unit includes a primary radio and a secondary radio, each being independently tuned. The primary radio is static while a secondary one can be influenced based on the conditions, turning into N-RU or Wi-Fi.