Multicast Function Network Element for Wireless Data Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multicast data transmission is not available in wireless networks due to user plane gateways discarding multicast data packets based on IP destination determination, which prevents effective data distribution to user equipment.
Innovation Solution
A multicast method and apparatus are introduced to manage multicast data transmission in wireless networks by using a multicast function network element that receives multicast data and obtains terminal information based on a preset correspondence, allowing it to send multicast data directly to the correct terminal, thereby bypassing the IP-based destination determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the user plane gateway determines the destination UE of the data packet based on the IP, then the gateway can route unicast data correctly, but multicast data packets are discarded causing unavailability of multicast transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multicast gateway as an intermediary device between the unicast core network and multicast broadcast network. This gateway translates and adapts multicast data packets, enabling them to pass through the user plane gateway that normally would discard them. The intermediary converts multicast traffic into a format compatible with existing IP-based routing infrastructure while preserving multicast functionality.
2Device complexity
If multicast data is transmitted through the existing user plane gateway using IP-based destination determination, then the network architecture remains simple, but multicast data packets are discarded and multicast transmission becomes unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
A multicast gateway is introduced as an intermediary component that sits between the unicast core network and the multicast broadcast network. This gateway performs protocol translation and packet adaptation, allowing multicast data to traverse the existing user plane gateway infrastructure without modifying it. The solution adds minimal complexity by introducing a single translation layer rather than redesigning the entire network architecture.
3Reliability
If a multicast gateway is introduced to enable multicast transmission, then multicast data can reach user equipment, but the network architecture becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The multicast gateway is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a protocol translator between unicast and multicast formats, serves as a packet adapter for the user plane gateway, and functions as a routing bridge between different network types. By consolidating these multiple functions into a single device, the solution enables multicast transmission without proportionally increasing overall network complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of this application relate to the communications field, and provide a multicast method and apparatus, to transmit multicast data in a wireless network. The method specifically includes: receiving, by a multicast function network element, multicast data from a multicast source and that includes a multicast address; obtaining, by the multicast function network element based on a preset correspondence, terminal information or connection information that corresponds to the multicast address; and sending, by the multicast function network element, the multicast data to a terminal.