Neutral Host Network vRAN Connection via F1 Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current Virtual Radio Access Networks (vRAN) do not support Neutral Host (NH) or Multi-operator networks, lacking specifications for information exchange over the F1 interface, which complicates the deployment and management of small cells and increases costs for network operators.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to establish a connection between a Neutral Host network and one or more virtual radio access networks (vRANs) through a service level agreement (SLA), involving the exchange of radio parameters such as carrier frequencies, bandwidth, and error rates over the F1 interface, enabling NH and Multi-Operator information sharing in both control and user planes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vRAN architecture is used to separate transport and control functions, then network flexibility and multi-operator support are improved, but the complexity of establishing connections and managing radio parameters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection establishment process is segmented into distinct phases: initial connection setup between NH and vRAN, followed by separate radio parameter exchange and configuration steps. This segmentation allows each phase to be managed independently, reducing overall complexity while supporting multiple operators through the F1 interface
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary message exchange mechanism over the F1 interface that facilitates parameter sharing between NH and vRAN entities. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of multi-operator coordination, allowing the underlying vRAN architecture to maintain its flexibility without direct exposure to connection management complexity
2Loss of energy
If radio parameters are shared across multiple operators over the F1 interface, then infrastructure cost is reduced, but the precision and reliability of parameter management decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by allowing each operator to have customized radio parameter configurations (such as carrier frequencies, bandwidth, PCI) tailored to their specific needs while sharing the same physical infrastructure. Each vRAN entity maintains operator-specific parameter sets, ensuring reliable and precise management despite multi-operator sharing
Solution Approach 2:
The F1 interface is designed with universal functionality to handle diverse parameter exchange requirements across multiple operators. The interface can accommodate different parameter types and configurations simultaneously, enabling cost-effective infrastructure sharing while maintaining the reliability needed for each operator's specific service requirements
3Ease of manufacture
If Neutral Host network shares RAN infrastructure with multiple vRANs, then deployment cost of small cells is reduced, but the difficulty of managing and coordinating radio resources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic resource allocation mechanisms where radio parameters such as carrier frequencies, bandwidth, and power levels can be adjusted in real-time based on operator needs and network conditions. This dynamic management allows cost-effective infrastructure sharing while coordinating resources efficiently across multiple vRANs through automated parameter exchange over the F1 interface
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method for establishing a connection between a Neutral Host (NH) network and one or more virtual radio access networks (vRANs), under a service level agreement (SLA) therebetween. The method comprises: sending a message to the one or more vRANs, the message including an identity of the NH network and at least a first radio parameter; in response to the message, receiving an identity of the one or more vRANs and at least a second radio parameter; and establishing the connection between the NH network and the one or more vRANs, based on the identity of the one or more vRANs, the identity of the NH network and one of the at least first radio parameter and the at least second radio parameter. The method is implemented in a network node, such as a Distributed Unit of a gNB.