Multi-Connectivity Packet Duplication for Wireless Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems that utilize multiple radio access technologies (RATs) face challenges in optimally routing data between a core network and a user equipment (UE), due to the different paths offered by various RATs, leading to inefficiencies in data delivery and reliability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of multi-connectivity techniques, where a UE is connected to both a master eNodeB (MeNB) and a secondary eNodeB (SeNB) via different RATs, allowing for data to be sent as duplicate packets to both nodes for increased reliability and timely delivery, using a duplicate-delivery bearer that combines MCG and SCG bearers via an X2-U interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is sent through a single RAT path, then device complexity is reduced, but data delivery reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data delivery path by separating control plane functions (handled by MeNB via LTE) from user plane data transmission (handled by both MeNB and SeNB via LTE and WiFi). This allows the system to achieve high reliability through multiple paths while managing complexity through functional separation and standardized protocol handling at each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling the UE to simultaneously utilize multiple RATs (LTE and WiFi) for data transmission, with the eNodeB acting as both master and secondary node. The system universally handles both control and user plane traffic through a unified multi-connectivity framework that integrates different network technologies.
2Reliability
If duplicate packets are sent to multiple base stations, then data delivery reliability is improved, but network bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively duplicating packets only for specific data flows that require enhanced reliability, rather than duplicating all traffic. The system uses bearer-level configuration to determine which data flows receive duplicate transmission, allowing the network to optimize between reliability improvement and bandwidth consumption based on service requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by creating duplicate packet instances that are transmitted through different RATs simultaneously. Each copy is sent through a separate base station (MeNB and/or SeNB) to increase the probability of successful delivery. The receiving end then reassembles these copies into the original data flow.
3Speed
If multiple RATs are utilized for data transmission, then data delivery speed is improved, but system configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protocol stack into distinct control plane and user plane layers, with standardized interfaces (S1, X2, eMBMS) that simplify multi-RAT configuration. The control plane handles signaling and resource allocation separately from user plane data transmission, reducing the complexity of managing multiple RATs through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes through bearer configuration, where different QoS parameters, priority levels, and routing settings are assigned to different bearers based on data flow requirements. This allows dynamic adjustment of transmission parameters across multiple RATs without reconfiguring the entire system, simplifying multi-RAT management.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of wireless communication of receiving a data flow, which has duplicate packets, from a plurality of cells via layers in a protocol stack having a packet split at a packet data convergence protocol layer or a radio link control layer is described. The method comprises receiving a packet in the data flow from one of the plurality of cells, determining that the packet has a duplicate packet, and reporting a status, to at least one of the plurality of cells, indicating to the at least one of the plurality of cells to discard the duplicate of the packet. Further, a method of transmitting duplicate packets and corresponding apparatuses and computer-readable media are described.