F1-U Delay Measurement for 5G Delay-Critical Equipment Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G networks, the static configuration of delays between gNB-CU-UP and DU leads to manual and error-prone measurements, which fail to adapt to changing network conditions, especially during congestion, affecting delay critical services.
Innovation Solution
Implement a system that dynamically measures and updates CU-UP and DU delays using F1-U interfaces, allowing for automated selection of network equipment based on average downlink delays to ensure compliance with latency requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static delay configuration is used between gNB-CU-UP and DU, then operator configuration is simple, but delay measurement is manual and error-prone, and cannot adapt to changing network conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static delay configuration into a dynamic measurement system. The centralized unit control plane periodically initiates delay measurements with distributed units, and the system automatically updates delay values based on measured results. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing network conditions such as congestion, replacing the static operator-configured delays with real-time measured delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The delay measurement system is self-configuring and self-updating. The centralized unit control plane automatically initiates measurements, receives delay reports from distributed units, and updates the delay configuration without requiring manual operator intervention. The system measures and updates its own parameters, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing errors.
2Extent of automation
If manual delay measurement and update is performed, then system automation is low, but measurement accuracy can be verified, but the process is tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where distributed units periodically report measured delay values to the centralized unit control plane. The control plane uses this feedback to update the delay configuration. This closed-loop feedback system ensures that the delay configuration continuously reflects actual network conditions, improving both automation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual operator configuration (mechanical human intervention) with automated electronic measurement and update systems. The delay measurement is performed automatically through protocol exchanges between centralized and distributed units, and the updates are applied automatically without manual intervention, reducing both labor and errors.
3Reliability
If static delay configuration is used, then configuration changes are simple, but during congestion real delay deviates from configured value, affecting QoS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic delay measurements where the centralized unit control plane initiates measurement procedures at regular intervals with each distributed unit. This periodic action ensures that delay configurations are updated frequently enough to reflect changing network conditions during congestion, while maintaining a systematic and manageable measurement rhythm that balances accuracy with operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Selection of network equipment based on delay for delay critical services (e.g., using a computerized tool), is enabled. For example, a system can comprise: a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, facilitate performance of operations, comprising: determining, for respective distributed units of a group of distributed units of network equipment, respective average downlink delays on an F1-U interface applicable to respective centralized unit user planes of a group of centralized unit user planes of the network equipment, and transmitting, to a centralized unit control plane of the network equipment, delay data representative of the respective average downlink delays.