Multiflow Aggregation Channel for 3GPP Non-3GPP Traffic Splitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current traffic flow management in 3GPP and non-3GPP networks limits bandwidth utilization, as data packets in a single traffic flow are transmitted in either network, not both, leading to inefficient resource use and increased switching delays.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for traffic flow splitting, where a multiflow aggregation channel is established between a UE and an eNB, allowing data to be transmitted simultaneously in both 3GPP and non-3GPP networks, using a multiflow aggregation instruction carried in a radio resource control connection configuration message, enabling data offloading between the two networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data packets in a single traffic flow are transmitted in either 3GPP or non-3GPP network, then network simplicity is maintained, but bandwidth utilization is limited and resource efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single traffic flow into multiple data flows that can be transmitted simultaneously over different networks (3GPP and non-3GPP). The network device divides the original traffic flow into first data flow transmitted via 3GPP network and second data flow transmitted via non-3GPP network, thereby increasing bandwidth utilization without requiring the terminal device to handle complex multi-network routing decisions
Solution Approach 2:
The network device acts as an intermediary that performs the flow splitting function. It receives the traffic flow from the core network, divides it into multiple data flows, and routes them through different access networks. This intermediary approach allows complex network-level operations without burdening the terminal device, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If traffic flow switching between networks is implemented, then network flexibility is improved, but switching delays increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes multiple data flows in advance that can be simultaneously transmitted over different networks. Instead of switching between networks when needed, the system proactively creates parallel transmission paths before data transmission begins. This eliminates switching delays by having pre-configured routes ready for immediate use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous data transmission by maintaining multiple active data flows simultaneously across different networks. Rather than interrupting transmission for network switching, the system keeps multiple channels open and active, ensuring uninterrupted data flow and eliminating the time loss associated with switching operations
3Productivity
If limited bandwidth resources are allocated to handle rapidly increasing traffic, then network stability is maintained, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-network transmission to multi-network simultaneous transmission, adding a new dimension to data flow routing. By utilizing both 3GPP and non-3GPP networks concurrently for the same traffic flow, the system effectively multiplies the available bandwidth capacity without requiring additional physical infrastructure in a single network
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a traffic flow splitting method and apparatus. In a process of accessing a 3GPP network by UE, an eNB in the 3GPP network sends a first multiflow aggregation instruction to the UE, to instruct the UE to establish a first multiflow aggregation channel between the UE and the eNB via a non-3GPP network. After receiving the first multiflow aggregation instruction, the UE establishes the first multiflow aggregation channel. The first multiflow aggregation channel is used for transmitting a part of data in an uplink traffic flow or a part of data in a downlink traffic flow for the UE, where the part of data is offloaded to the non-3GPP network for transmission, and other data in the uplink traffic flow or other data in the downlink traffic flow is offloaded to a 3GPP channel in the 3GPP network for transmission. In the method, different data packets in a same traffic flow can be simultaneously transmitted in the 3GPP network and the non-3GPP network, so that air-interface bandwidth is effectively increased.