PLMN Load Balancing in Shared RAN Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load balancing methods in network sharing architectures, such as Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN), fail to address load imbalances between Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs) sharing a Radio Access Network (RAN, leading to overloads and deteriorated Quality of Service (QoS) for users.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for calculating and balancing cell loads across multiple PLMNs, involving a load calculator and a load balancing controller that offloads overloaded resources from one PLMN to neighboring cells, ensuring efficient distribution of radio resources and maintaining QoS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple PLMNs share a common RAN to improve resource utilization, then resource efficiency is improved, but load imbalance between PLMNs occurs leading to overload and QoS deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the shared RAN resources by creating separate load measurement and control mechanisms for each PLMN. The load balancing apparatus measures and controls load separately for first PLMN and second PLMN, preventing load imbalance between them while maintaining efficient resource sharing. This segmentation allows each PLMN to have dedicated resource guarantees within the shared infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the load balancing parameters by introducing PLMN-specific load thresholds and measurement metrics. Instead of using a single unified load parameter for the entire shared RAN, the system measures load separately for each PLMN and applies different balancing actions based on each PLMN's specific load conditions, thereby preventing overload while maintaining overall resource efficiency.
2Reliability
If traditional cell load balancing methods are used to maintain QoS, then individual cell QoS is maintained, but PLMN-level load imbalance is not addressed causing network-wide inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a new dimension to load balancing by operating at the PLMN level rather than just at the cell level. The load balancing apparatus measures and controls load for each PLMN across multiple cells, creating a hierarchical load balancing approach. This dimensional change allows the system to address PLMN-level load imbalance while still maintaining cell-level QoS through coordinated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for balancing a load by taking into consideration a load of each mobile communication network (Public Land Mobile Network (PLMNs)) of a network sharing architecture are provided. A base station apparatus of a communication system having a network sharing architecture capable of serving at least one mobile terminal via at least two PLMNs is provided. The apparatus includes a load calculator and a load balancing controller. The load calculator is configured to calculate respective loads of the PLMNs. When a first network of the PLMNs is overloaded, the load balancing controller is configured to balance an overload to the first network included in cells neighboring a serving cell.