NR Flow-Control Feedback for Split Bearers and PDCP Duplication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network-based flow control mechanisms in LTE and NR systems lack support for uplink and secondary cell group (SCG) split-bearer operations, and face inefficiencies in PDCP duplication handling, leading to suboptimal scheduling and quality of service issues.
Innovation Solution
Enhancements to network-based flow control systems include support for uplink and SCG split-bearer operations, with mechanisms for PDCP PDU sequence number notifications and feedback triggering, using modified frame formats and new control procedures to optimize data delivery and avoid duplicative transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network-based flow control mechanisms are used in LTE and NR systems, then data transmission is managed, but they lack support for uplink and SCG split-bearer operations leading to suboptimal scheduling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flow control mechanism into separate handling for different bearer types (MCG and SCG split-bearers). It introduces distinct feedback triggering mechanisms for each bearer type, allowing independent optimization. The PDCP duplication handling is also segmented with separate sequence number tracking for each bearer, enabling precise control over data flow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic flow control by introducing feedback triggering mechanisms that adapt to real-time network conditions. The system dynamically adjusts flow control parameters based on buffer status, transmission conditions, and bearer-specific requirements. This allows the scheduling efficiency to be optimized continuously rather than using static configurations.
2Reliability
If PDCP duplication handling is used, then data redundancy is created, but it leads to duplicative transmissions and quality of service issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the receiving node sends acknowledgments and status information back to the transmitting node. This feedback includes information about successfully received packets and buffer status, allowing the transmitter to adjust duplication levels dynamically. The feedback loop enables the system to maintain reliability while minimizing duplicative transmissions by stopping duplication once acknowledgment is received.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces mechanisms to discard duplicate packets at the receiver side based on sequence number comparison. When a duplicate packet is detected, it is discarded without processing, and the receiver sends a single acknowledgment for the original packet. This prevents duplicative transmissions from consuming network resources while maintaining the reliability benefits of duplication.
3Productivity
If flow control triggering mechanisms are enhanced, then data delivery control is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing flow control triggering only where needed - specifically for SCG split-bearer operations and PDCP duplication scenarios. Rather than overhauling the entire flow control system, it adds targeted triggering mechanisms for specific problem areas. This selective approach improves data delivery efficiency without unnecessarily complicating the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the flow control triggering mechanism to serve multiple functions: it triggers feedback for buffer status reporting, initiates flow control adjustments, and coordinates with PDCP duplication management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized mechanisms, thereby improving productivity while limiting the increase in system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, methods, communication nodes, base stations, storage media, and other embodiments are provided for managing associations in a communication network. In one example embodiment, a New Radio (NR) node is configured for NR user-plane protocol communications between a master node (MN) and a secondary node (SN). The NR node is configured to generate a downlink (DL) user data message with downlink user data, initiate transmission of the DL user data message to a second node, and process a DL data delivery status message from the second node in response to the DL user data message. In various embodiments, polling and SCG split-bearer configurations are supported by such messaging. In some embodiments, packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) serial numbers are communicated for transmission and retransmission management. In some embodiments, DL configurations initiated by an SN are enabled, as well as UL configurations initiated by either an MN or an SN.