Master eNB Dynamic Data Splitting for Dual Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dual connectivity systems lack a flexible mechanism to adapt to different eNB implementations, leading to inefficient data bearer bandwidth usage and increased data transmission delay due to unclear buffer capacity reporting.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow a master eNB to receive and interpret buffer information from a secondary eNB via the X2 interface, determining whether the information refers to a UE or E-RAB buffer, and adjust data assignment accordingly, using indicators and bearer-specific information to optimize data split ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the MeNB uses a fixed data split ratio for split bearers, then the system complexity is reduced, but the data throughput cannot be optimized and transmission delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic data split ratio adjustment based on real-time buffer status reports from the SeNB. The MeNB receives buffer information indicating available buffer capacity at the SeNB and dynamically modifies the data split ratio accordingly, transitioning from a fixed to a dynamic splitting mechanism that adapts to changing network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where the SeNB reports buffer status information to the MeNB, which then adjusts the data split ratio based on this feedback. The buffer status report contains information about available buffer capacity, enabling the MeNB to make informed decisions about data packet routing to optimize throughput and prevent overflow.
2Productivity
If the MeNB dynamically adjusts data split ratio based on SeNB buffer status, then data throughput is optimized, but the system complexity and information processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being monitored from general channel quality to specific buffer status information. The SeNB reports buffer availability parameters to the MeNB, which then adjusts the data split ratio based on these parameter changes, enabling optimized throughput through manageable parameter monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the buffer status report mechanism universal by having the SeNB report buffer information for multiple bearers in a single report structure. This multi-functional report serves both as a resource status indication and as a trigger for data split ratio adjustment across multiple data flows.
3Measurement precision
If the SeNB reports detailed buffer information to the MeNB, then the data assignment accuracy is improved, but the signaling overhead and transmission delay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential buffer status information needed for data split ratio adjustment, rather than reporting all possible buffer details. The SeNB reports key parameters such as available buffer capacity and bearer identification, enabling accurate data assignment with minimal signaling overhead.
4Productivity
If the MeNB sends more data packets to the SeNB, then the utilization of SeNB bandwidth is improved, but the risk of buffer overflow and data loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses buffer status feedback from the SeNB to control the data packet flow to the SeNB. When the SeNB reports sufficient available buffer capacity, the MeNB increases the data split ratio to send more packets to the SeNB, maximizing bandwidth utilization. When buffer capacity is low, the MeNB reduces the split ratio to prevent overflow, maintaining transmission reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and an apparatus for assigning data to split bearers in dual connectivity is provided. The apparatus includes a master evolved Node B (MeNB) of a user equipment (UE) configured to receive information of available buffer decided and transmitted by a secondary eNB (SeNB) through an X2 interface between the MeNB and the SeNB, determine whether the information is about available buffer for a UE or for an evolved radio access bearer (E-RAB) established on the SeNB based on an indicator in the information or a bearer that transported the information, and adjust the amount of data assigned to the SeNB according to the information of the available buffer. The apparatus can accommodate eNBs implemented in various manners, make full use of the bandwidth of data bearers, and reduce delay in data transmission.