Flexible Bearer Handling via PDCP Encapsulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bearer handling in LTE networks is inflexible, particularly at the edges of the radio access network, limiting scalability and adaptability in scenarios like mobile backhauling and small cell deployments where both LTE and WiFi need to be controlled by the same infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
The method involves encapsulating PDCP PDUs into IEEE 802.3 frames, allowing for flexible handling of EPS bearers by decoupling them from their monolithic structure, enabling individual treatment and control of radio bearers within a packet-switched network, leveraging standard packet switching and SDN/OpenFlow concepts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If EPS bearers are treated as a monolith and routed to the same SGW, then scalability and complexity are improved, but flexibility at the edges of the LTE radio access network deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monolithic EPS bearer handling into individual PDCP PDUs that can be independently encapsulated and routed. Each PDCP PDU is separated from the traditional monolithic bearer structure, allowing individual packets to be treated differently based on local network conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between simplified core network handling and flexible edge processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of processing by encapsulating PDCP PDUs into Ethernet frames at the eNodeB, enabling packet-switched network routing. This dimensional change from circuit-switched bearer routing to packet-switched frame routing allows flexible edge handling while maintaining core network scalability.
2Productivity
If LTE bearers are handled according to standard packet switching, then scalability is improved, but adaptability to unorthodox applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic encapsulation where PDCP PDUs can be dynamically wrapped into Ethernet frames with configurable VLAN tags and MAC addresses. This dynamic processing enables the same standardized mechanism to support both conventional LTE applications and unorthodox applications like mobile backhauling, capillary systems, and SDN concepts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key parameters of the data structure by encapsulating PDCP PDUs into Ethernet frames with customizable headers. By modifying frame format, VLAN IDs, and MAC addresses, the system can adapt to different application requirements while maintaining the standardized packet switching infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If PDCP PDUs are encapsulated into individual frames, then flexibility in handling radio bearers is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses Ethernet frames as an intermediary structure between the PDCP layer and the packet-switched network. This intermediary encapsulation layer simplifies the complexity by providing a standardized interface that both the LTE protocol and packet switching infrastructure can work with, rather than requiring direct complex integration of multiple protocols.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments presented herein relate to bearer handling, and particularly to a method, a network node, a computer program, and a computer program product for flexible bearer handling in a communications network. Packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) protocol data units (PDUs) are acquired. Individual PDCP PDUs are encapsulated into individual frames at at least one protocol layer above a bottom-most protocol layer. The individual frames are switched towards a packet switched network.