Multicast-Broadcast Service Tunnel Management for PtP-to-PtM Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently managing and switching between point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtM) multicast-broadcast services (MBS) due to the lack of dynamic tunnel management between network nodes, leading to inefficient data replication and resource utilization.
Innovation Solution
A method for establishing and managing tunnels between user plane functions and network nodes to facilitate seamless switching of MBS data flows, allowing for the use of existing or new tunnels based on availability and need, thereby optimizing resource allocation and reducing redundant data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dynamic tunnel management is implemented for MBS switching, then resource utilization improves and redundant data transmission is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic tunnel management where tunnels between network nodes are dynamically established, modified, and released based on real-time MBS service requirements. The system transitions from static tunnel configurations to dynamic ones, allowing tunnels to be created when needed and released when no longer required, thereby improving resource utilization while adapting to changing service demands
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the tunnel management process into distinct phases: tunnel establishment phase (when MBS service starts), tunnel maintenance phase (during active service), and tunnel release phase (when service ends). This segmentation allows the system to manage tunnel resources efficiently by performing specific actions at appropriate stages, reducing redundant transmissions while maintaining manageable complexity through structured process division
2Reliability
If tunnels are established for every MBS service, then service reliability improves, but network resource overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes tunnels in advance when MBS services are initiated, ensuring that reliable transmission paths are ready before data needs to be transmitted. The tunnel establishment occurs during the service setup phase, so when actual MBS data transmission begins, the tunnel is already in place, guaranteeing service reliability without requiring last-minute resource allocation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a tunnel release mechanism that discards (releases) tunnels when MBS services conclude. The system monitors service status and automatically releases tunnels that are no longer needed, recovering network resources for potential reuse. This prevents permanent allocation of tunnel resources, reducing overall network overhead while maintaining reliability during active service periods
3Stability of the object's composition
If redundant data transmission occurs during MBS switching, then service continuity is maintained, but data transmission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where network nodes monitor tunnel status and MBS service state continuously. When switching between unicast and multicast modes, the system receives feedback about current transmission paths and service requirements, allowing it to adjust tunnel configurations dynamically. This feedback loop ensures service continuity by maintaining active paths while eliminating redundant transmissions through intelligent path selection based on real-time conditions
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method for a second network node, the method comprising: receiving a message from a first network node configured to provide a multicast-broadcast service, MBS, for a user equipment, UE, the message comprising an MBS identifier identifying the MBS and at least one data flow identifier corresponding to at least one data flow, for providing the MBS, to be offloaded from the first network node to the second network node; determining whether or not a tunnel, between the second network node and a user plane entity, associated with the MBS identifier exists; on the basis of the determining, transmitting, to the first network node, a response message indicating whether or not a new tunnel for the MBS is requested to be established; and utilizing the existing tunnel or said new tunnel requested to be established for providing the MBS.