Optical Network Node for Ad-Hoc RRU-Main Unit Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio communications networks lack the ability to dynamically connect remote radio units and main units ad-hoc, relying on pre-configured topologies and static CPRI connections, which limits flexibility and efficiency in resource allocation and management.
Innovation Solution
A network node within an optical network that receives connection requests, establishes control data connections, and stores topology and configuration data to enable ad-hoc connections between remote radio units and main units, allowing for flexible topology establishment and resource allocation without pre-existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-configured topologies and static CPRI connections are used, then system stability and protocol compatibility are maintained, but flexibility and efficiency in resource allocation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection establishment between remote radio units and main units by introducing a connection manager that enables ad-hoc connections based on real-time traffic demands and network conditions, transforming the static CPRI connection model into a dynamic one while maintaining protocol compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the connection management function by introducing a dedicated connection manager entity that handles connection requests, control data exchange, and topology management separately from the data plane, enabling flexible resource allocation without disrupting the stable CPRI protocol framework
2Productivity
If ad-hoc connections are established dynamically, then resource utilization and resilience are improved, but connection establishment complexity and control overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by having the connection manager proactively discover available main units and remote radio units, pre-establish control data connections, and maintain updated topology information before actual data traffic requires ad-hoc connections, thereby reducing connection establishment time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a connection manager as an intermediary entity that mediates between remote radio units and main units, handling connection requests, negotiating parameters, and managing control data exchange, which simplifies the ad-hoc connection process and reduces establishment time
3Adaptability or versatility
If static CPRI protocol connections are used, then protocol compatibility is maintained, but dynamic topology adaptation and real-time connection management are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the CPRI connection model by introducing a connection manager that emulates CPRI master-slave behavior for control data exchange, allowing dynamic topology adaptation while maintaining compatibility with standard CPRI protocols for user data transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The connection manager acts as an intermediary that translates dynamic connection requirements into standard CPRI protocol commands, enabling real-time topology adaptation without compromising protocol compatibility by mediating between the dynamic control plane and static data plane
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments herein relate to a method in a network node (16) for enabling a first unit (17) to connect ad-hoc to a second unit (18) in a system configured for remote radio units and main units, which network node (16) is comprised in an optical network (15). The network node (15) receives a connection request from the first unit (17) over the optical network (15). The network node (15) establishes a connection, to the first unit (17), for control data. The network node (15) stores control data regarding the first unit (17). The control data is retrieved from the first unit (17) over the established connection and wherein the control data enables the first unit (17) to connect/be connected ad-hoc to the second unit (18) for transferring user data over a physical path through the optical network (15).