Flexible Subnetworks via Management Node Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Centralized control of radio access networks reduces deployment flexibility and complexity, making it challenging to manage resource allocation and mobility efficiently across subnetworks within a broader network.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a management node (MN) that forms and controls flexible subnetworks independently of the broader network, using a single physical connection with the base station for all subnetwork UEs, and employing subnetwork tunneling protocols to facilitate efficient communication and resource management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If centralized control is used for radio access networks, then resource management and scheduling are simplified, but deployment flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol complexityVSAvoiddeployment flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The network control functionality is segmented into centralized base station control for overall resource management and distributed subnetwork control for local operations. The management node autonomously controls subnetwork formation and operations independently from the broader network, dividing the control system into manageable segments that balance complexity and flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A management node acts as an intermediary between the base station and user equipment within subnetworks. This intermediary enables autonomous subnetwork operations while maintaining connection to the broader network through the base station, facilitating flexible deployment without requiring direct centralized control of all network functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If autonomous subnetwork control is implemented, then deployment flexibility is improved, but network complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedeployment flexibilityVSAvoidnetwork complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network is segmented into independent subnetworks, each controlled autonomously by a management node. This segmentation allows flexible deployment of subnetworks without requiring complex centralized coordination, as each subnetwork operates independently while maintaining overall network connectivity through the base station.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If subnetwork tunneling is used, then resource allocation efficiency is improved, but protocol complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidprotocol complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The subnetwork tunneling protocol acts as an intermediary layer that enables efficient resource allocation within subnetworks. The protocol manages resource allocation and mobility transparently, improving productivity while encapsulating the complexity within the tunneling mechanism itself rather than requiring complex coordination across the entire network.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250097936A1Technologies for flexible subnetworks

Publication Date: 2025.03.20 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for employing subnetworks to communicate with cellular networks.