Multi-RAT Access Point Load Balancing with Unified Core
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-RAT AP architectures face challenges in load balancing due to varying numbers of LTE and NR capable UEs, limited bandwidth support, and fragmented spectrum, leading to uneven distribution of UEs across different Radio Access Technologies.
Innovation Solution
Implement dynamic bandwidth allocation and seamless transitions between LTE and NR networks, along with unified core support for EPC and 5GC, enabling IP and QoS continuity, and using a Converged Core to manage UE capabilities and credentials for efficient load balancing across LTE, NR, and Wi-Fi RATs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dynamic bandwidth allocation is implemented for LTE and NR networks, then load balancing between RATs is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth allocation where the CBSD dynamically adjusts the bandwidth allocated to LTE and NR networks based on real-time UE capability information and load conditions. This dynamic adjustment enables efficient load balancing while managing system complexity through automated control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the CBSD receives UE capability information, determines appropriate bandwidth allocations, and adjusts resource distribution accordingly. This feedback loop enables continuous optimization of load balancing performance while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated decision-making.
2Productivity
If UEs transition between LTE and NR operating through the same CBSD, then load balancing is improved, but service interruption risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-establishing transition parameters and preparing bandwidth allocations before UE transitions occur. The CBSD pre-configures necessary resources and parameters to enable seamless transitions between LTE and NR, reducing service interruption risk while maintaining load balancing benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining backup bandwidth allocations and preparing alternative routing paths before transitions are needed. This cushioning mechanism ensures that if a transition interruption occurs, service continuity can be rapidly restored, thereby protecting against reliability issues while enabling load balancing.
3Productivity
If IP and QoS transitions are performed during RAT switching, then load balancing is improved, but transition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges IP and QoS transition functions into a unified transition management mechanism at the CBSD. By combining these functions, the system simplifies the transition process and reduces overall complexity while maintaining efficient load balancing capabilities across different RATs.
Solution Approach 2:
The CBSD is designed with multi-functionality, handling both IP and QoS transitions simultaneously through a unified approach. This universal handling mechanism reduces transition complexity by consolidating multiple functions into a single coordinated process, while still enabling effective load balancing.
4Productivity
If a unified core for EPC and 5GC is provided, then load balancing across RATs is improved, but network architecture complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges EPC and 5GC into a unified core architecture that can handle both LTE and NR networks. This consolidation enables improved load balancing across RATs by providing a common infrastructure, while the patent manages the resulting architecture complexity through standardized integration interfaces and unified management mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a method and apparatus for load balancing with a RAT (multi-Radio Access Technology) AP (Access Point) are disclosed. In some embodiments, dynamic bandwidth allocation for LTE (Long Term Evolution) and 5G NR (New Radio) is provided for a CBSDs (Citizen Broadband radio Service Devices) that support several types of RATs. In some embodiments, the UE population and the active traffic being exchanged in the full deployment and within each site is used to determine the required load balancing needs. In some embodiments, UEs (User Equipment) transition between LTE and 5G NR networks operating through the same CBSD. This is typically done for load balancing. In some embodiments, IP (Internet Protocol) and QoS (Quality of Service) transitions occur with transitions between the LTE and 5G NR networks and between eLTE (Evolved LTE) and NR. In some embodiments, seamless transitions are performed between LTE + WiFi and 5G NR + WiFi. In some embodiments, a unified core for EPC (Evolved Packet Core) and 5GC (5th Generation Packet Core) is provided.