Shared MBS Tunnel Feedback for Multicast and Unicast Bearers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in supporting the user plane protocol for multicast and broadcast services (MBS) in multiple transmission modes, particularly when a shared tunnel is used for both multicast and unicast data radio bearers (M-DRB and U-DRB), as the existing user plane protocol is designed for a specific data radio bearer per GTP tunnel.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where user data packets are transmitted over a shared tunnel for both M-DRB and U-DRB, with separate feedback tunnels for each, and data delivery status frames are sent for each bearer to facilitate effective flow control, using bearer context IDs and TNL information to establish and manage these tunnels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a shared tunnel is used for both M-DRB and U-DRB to improve resource utilization, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult to manage data delivery status for different transmission modes separately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the feedback mechanism by introducing separate feedback tunnels for M-DRB and U-DRB, allowing independent tracking of data delivery status for each transmission mode while sharing the forward data tunnel. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining simple forward path routing while enabling separate status monitoring through dedicated feedback channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary feedback tunnel mechanism that mediates between the shared forward data tunnel and the status tracking requirement. The feedback tunnel acts as an intermediary channel carrying acknowledgment and status information separately from the data flow, enabling independent status management without complicating the forward data path.
2Measurement precision
If separate feedback tunnels are established for M-DRB and U-DRB to improve data delivery status tracking, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the forward data transmission path for both M-DRB and U-DRB into a shared tunnel, reducing the number of forward tunnels needed. Meanwhile, separate feedback tunnels are established only for status tracking, combining resource efficiency in the forward path with precision in the feedback path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making the feedback mechanism mode-specific while keeping the forward data path generic. The feedback tunnels have specialized properties for tracking M-DRB and U-DRB status separately, while the shared forward tunnel maintains general-purpose data transmission capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic switching between PTM and PTP modes is implemented to improve service continuity, then adaptability is improved, but it becomes difficult to maintain reliable data transmission across mode changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining persistent feedback tunnels that continue to operate across mode transitions. The feedback mechanism remains active and consistent whether the system is in PTM, PTP, or transitioning between modes, ensuring uninterrupted status tracking and service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by allowing the forward data transmission mode to switch dynamically between PTM and PTP based on service requirements, while the feedback tunnel structure remains adaptable to support both modes. This enables flexible mode switching while maintaining reliable transmission through the adaptable feedback mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present application relate to a method and apparatus for multicast and broadcast services (MBS). An exemplary method includes: transmitting a set of user data packet over a shared tunnel for multicast data radio bearer (M-DRB) and unicast data radio bearer (U-DRB), wherein each of the set of user data packet is associated with at least one of: a M-DRB; and one or more U-DRBs; and receiving a data delivery status frame for each of the at least one of the M-DRB and one or more U-DRBs. Embodiments of the present application can support the user plane protocol in the case of multiple transmission modes in the MBS.