Dynamic Protocol Layer Distribution in C-RAN
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of a proper protocol layer distribution method in Cloud Radio Access Networks (C-RAN) that supports dynamic and flexible distribution of protocol layers between Central Units (CU) and Distributed Units (DU), which is essential for efficient operation in 3GPP networks, especially with the introduction of 5G NR requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamic and flexible protocol layer distribution indication is introduced, where the CU determines the distribution manner based on specific conditions and sends protocol layer distribution information to the DU, allowing for timely changes in protocol layer distribution, enabling efficient processing of data across various protocol layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If protocol layer distribution is fixed in C-RAN architecture, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different service requirements and dynamic conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic protocol layer distribution by introducing a distribution indication mechanism that allows the CU to dynamically indicate to the DU which protocol layers should be distributed to the DU and which should remain at the CU. This enables the system to adapt protocol layer distribution according to different service requirements, channel conditions, and load scenarios, resolving the contradiction between fixed architecture simplicity and dynamic adaptability.
2Speed
If protocol layers are distributed to DU, then processing speed and real-time performance are improved, but control complexity and coordination overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protocol stack into different layers that can be independently distributed between CU and DU based on processing requirements. By segmenting the protocol functions and allowing flexible distribution indication, the system can place latency-sensitive layers at the DU for fast processing while keeping control functions at the CU, thus improving processing speed without excessive control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a distribution indication mechanism as an intermediary that coordinates between CU and DU. This indication mechanism provides a standardized interface for specifying protocol layer distribution, simplifying the coordination overhead while enabling efficient distributed processing. The indication acts as a mediator that resolves the complexity of direct CU-DU coordination.
3Productivity
If protocol layer distribution is dynamically adjusted, then spectral efficiency and resource utilization are improved, but signaling overhead and communication between CU and DU increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes in the distribution indication to efficiently convey protocol layer distribution decisions. By encoding distribution information in a compact indication format with specific parameters, the system can dynamically adjust protocol layer distribution to optimize spectral efficiency while minimizing the signaling overhead required to convey these decisions between CU and DU.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Embodiments of this application provide a protocol layer distribution indication method and apparatus. The method includes: determining, by a CU, a protocol layer distribution manner between the CU and a DU; generating, by the CU, first protocol layer distribution information based on the protocol layer distribution manner; and sending, by the CU, the first protocol layer distribution information to the DU. The CU determines the protocol layer distribution manner between the CU and the DU, further generates the first protocol layer distribution information based on the protocol layer distribution manner, and sends the first protocol layer distribution information to the DU, so that the protocol layer distribution manner can be dynamically determined, and dynamically notified to the DU. The DU may also change a protocol layer distribution in a timely manner based on the received first protocol layer distribution information.