E1 Interface Signaling for 5G Multicast Bearer Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G wireless communication technologies lack support for efficient multicast and broadcast services, particularly in the context of CU/DU separation, where the configuration of broadcast/multicast service bearers through the E1 interface is not well-defined, limiting network flexibility and scalability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of flexible configuration information exchange between the control plane (CP) and user plane (UP) functions at network devices, utilizing interfaces like the E1 interface, to establish and manage multicast and broadcast services, including bearer setup, mode switching, and data delivery modes (PTP/PTM) for wireless devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multicast and broadcast services are implemented in 5G networks with CU/DU separation, then network flexibility and scalability are improved, but the configuration of service bearers through the E1 interface becomes complex and undefined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the bearer configuration process by defining separate information elements for different aspects of multicast/broadcast service configuration. The E1 interface messages are divided into distinct components including session identification, delivery mode indication (PTP/PTM), and bearer-specific parameters, allowing independent configuration and management of each aspect without overwhelming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic configuration capabilities where the network can switch between unicast, multicast, and broadcast delivery modes based on real-time service requirements. The E1 interface supports dynamic bearer setup, modification, and release procedures that adapt to changing network conditions and service demands, enabling flexible resource allocation.
2Ease of operation
If detailed configuration information is exchanged between CP and UP functions, then service management capability is improved, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal information elements that serve multiple functions. For example, the delivery mode indication field can represent unicast, multicast, or broadcast modes using the same message structure. This multi-functionality allows comprehensive service management without requiring separate signaling procedures for each service type, thereby reducing overall signaling overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements efficient signaling by allowing the network to discard detailed configuration information when using default parameters, and only exchange specific non-default parameters when needed. The E1 interface supports selective configuration where commonly used parameters can be omitted, and the network can recover full configuration details from stored templates or previous configurations, significantly reducing signaling overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and apparatus for implementing multicast broadcast services in a wireless network are described. One example method includes communicating a message on an interface between a control plane (CP) function of a network node and a user plane (UP) function of the network node that provides data connectivity to one or more wireless devices in a wireless network, and configuring, based on the message, the network node to provide a service carrying a multicast or broadcast data for a session for the one or more wireless devices.