Dual Connectivity Packet Path Alignment for Latency Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In dual connectivity (DC) wireless communication systems, transmission latency and power consumption are increased due to inefficient data packet transmission paths, particularly in split bearer configurations, leading to unnecessary latency and power waste during discontinuous reception (DRX) mode operations.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a base station and terminal efficiently select a transmission or reception path for data packets by configuring a flag to match the uplink and downlink packet paths, ensuring that downlink packets are transmitted through the same path as the corresponding uplink packets, thereby reducing latency and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If dual connectivity with split bearer is configured to increase data rate and transmission capacity, then throughput is improved, but transmission latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection for downlink packets based on the transmission path of corresponding uplink packets. The base station determines the downlink transmission path dynamically by referencing the uplink path (MN or SN), thereby adapting the transmission route to current network conditions and reducing latency while maintaining the benefits of dual connectivity for high throughput.
2Adaptability or versatility
If path selection is not optimized in dual connectivity, then transmission flexibility is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the terminal to autonomously determine its active path by monitoring which base station (MN or SN) transmits the corresponding uplink packet. The terminal uses this self-determined path information to expect downlink packets on the same path, eliminating the need for complex path indication signaling and reducing power consumption by avoiding unnecessary path monitoring.
3Productivity
If downlink packets are transmitted through different paths than uplink packets, then load balancing is improved, but transmission latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station determines the downlink transmission path based on the uplink path that was successfully used. This feedback loop ensures that packets follow consistent paths, allowing the network to achieve load balancing through intelligent path selection while preventing latency caused by path switching.
Data Source
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AI summary
A communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT) is provided. The disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. The disclosure proposes a transmission path determination method and apparatus for latency reduction.