eNB Backhaul Topology Mapping for Multi-Vendor RAN Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of wireless communication network management is exacerbated by diverse network equipment from different vendors, leading to inefficiencies in troubleshooting and increased costs due to the difficulty in gathering and interpreting information across different management systems, which can result in prolonged issue resolution times.
Innovation Solution
A communication network operations center (NOC) monitoring and repairing system that reads information from a network equipment inventory data store to identify and analyze enhanced node B (eNB) devices with fiber optic and wireless interfaces, determine network layer relationships, and adapt backhaul network topologies to improve monitoring and management of mobile communication radio access networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If diverse network equipment from different vendors is used, then network equipment versatility and functionality are improved, but network management complexity and troubleshooting difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized interface layer and unified management platform that acts as an intermediary between diverse vendor equipment and the network management system. This intermediary translates vendor-specific protocols and data formats into a common standardized format, enabling centralized management without requiring deep vendor-specific knowledge for each equipment type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal management architecture that can handle multiple vendor equipment types through a single unified interface. The system performs multiple functions including device discovery, topology mapping, performance monitoring, and fault management through a common platform that adapts to different equipment vendors while maintaining consistent management procedures.
2Measurement precision
If manual information gathering and troubleshooting methods are used, then contributor expertise and accuracy are improved, but troubleshooting time and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated self-diagnosis and self-troubleshooting capabilities that enable the network management system to automatically gather information, analyze faults, and initiate corrective actions without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously performs topology discovery, equipment status monitoring, and fault isolation, significantly reducing both troubleshooting time and operational costs while maintaining high accuracy through systematic automated procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes continuous feedback loops where the system automatically monitors network equipment performance, detects anomalies, and triggers automated troubleshooting procedures. The feedback mechanism provides real-time information about equipment status and fault conditions, enabling rapid response and resolution while reducing reliance on manual contributor expertise for routine troubleshooting tasks.
3Productivity
If automated topology mapping is implemented, then network management efficiency is improved, but system complexity and initial setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary automated actions during network equipment installation and configuration, where the system proactively discovers equipment, establishes connectivity, and builds topology information automatically as equipment is added to the network. This preliminary automation reduces the need for complex manual configuration and setup while maintaining high management efficiency through continuous automated topology updates.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of managing a mobile communication radio access network (RAN). The method comprises reading information about network equipment from a network equipment inventory data store by an application executing on a computer system and, based on the information about network equipment read from the network equipment inventory data store, determining a backhaul network topology by the application, wherein a plurality of donor enhanced node B (eNB) devices provide backhaul communication coupling to one or more local exchange carrier (LEC) to a plurality of eNB devices. The method further comprises analyzing a performance history of the network equipment by the application based on the backhaul network topology and adapting a build-out of new equipment being added to extend the network equipment based on the analyzing of the performance history.