E2 Interface Cell Configuration for NR and E-UTRA O-RAN
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio access networks lack efficient mechanisms for operator-specific service support and cell information management in the context of 5G communication systems, particularly in open radio access networks (O-RAN) where hybrid technologies like NR and E-UTRA are integrated.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for generating and interpreting messages related to service models in a radio access network (RAN) through an E2 interface, enabling the exchange of serving and neighboring cell information between nodes and a radio access network intelligent controller (RIC) to support operator-specific services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing radio access networks use conventional mechanisms for service support, then network simplicity is maintained, but operator-specific service support capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an E2 interface as an intermediary mechanism between the base station and the RIC. This interface serves as a standardized mediator that enables operator-specific service support by allowing the RIC to receive cell information from the base station and process it according to operator requirements, thereby enhancing service adaptability without significantly complicating the overall network architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the service support functionality by separating base station operations from RIC processing through the E2 interface. Cell information is extracted and transmitted as a distinct data element, allowing independent processing and customization of services at the RIC level while maintaining base station simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If cell information management is implemented in O-RAN, then service model support is enhanced, but message processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific parameters and data structures for cell information management, including serving cell information, neighboring cell information, and their respective identifiers. By standardizing these parameters in the E2 interface message format, the patent enables enhanced service model support while controlling message processing complexity through structured data exchange
3Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid NR and E-UTRA technologies are integrated, then network versatility is improved, but information management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal E2 interface message structure that can handle both NR and E-UTRA cell information through standardized fields. The interface supports multiple technology types using a common information management framework, thereby improving hybrid technology integration capability while avoiding the complexity of separate management systems for each technology
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by an E2 node is provided. The method includes transmitting a first message to a radio access network (RAN) intelligent controller (RIC) through an E2 interface to the RIC, and receiving a second message from the RIC in response to the first message, wherein the first message is an E2 setup request message or a configuration update message, and wherein the first message comprises at least one of first configuration information of one or more serviced new radio (NR) cells or second configuration information of one or more serviced evolved universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) terrestrial radio access (E-UTRA) cells.