R1 Interface for Virtual Infrastructure Information Provision in O-RAN
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional Open RAN (O-RAN) lacks a defined mechanism to provide information from the virtual infrastructure (O-Cloud) to the rApp of the Non-RT RIC, hindering effective radio access network control.
Innovation Solution
A radio access network control apparatus and method that includes a virtual infrastructure information acquisition unit to acquire information from the O-Cloud and a provision unit to provide this information through the R1 interface to the rApp in the Non-RT RIC, enabling seamless communication and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a mechanism is established to provide information from the virtual infrastructure to the rApp through the R1 interface, then the control capability and operational efficiency of the radio access network are improved, but the system complexity increases due to the need for new information acquisition and provision units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an R1 interface as an intermediary communication channel between the virtual infrastructure (O-Cloud) and the rApp in the Non-RT RIC. This intermediary interface enables structured information exchange without requiring direct integration between the virtual infrastructure and application layers, thereby improving operational efficiency while managing system complexity through standardized communication protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the information exchange function into distinct components: a virtual infrastructure information acquisition unit that collects data from the O-Cloud, and a virtual infrastructure information provision unit that delivers data to the rApp through the R1 interface. This segmentation allows each component to be independently developed, maintained, and optimized, reducing overall system complexity while enabling efficient information flow
2Reliability
If virtual infrastructure information is provided to the rApp, then the overall control of the O-RAN is enhanced, but the information management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The R1 interface is designed as a universal communication channel that can carry multiple types of virtual infrastructure information (performance metrics, resource status, configuration data) between the O-Cloud and rApp. This multi-functional interface reduces information management complexity by providing a standardized, unified pathway for diverse information types, thereby enhancing control capability without proportionally increasing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A radio access network control apparatus has at least one processor that performs: by a virtual infrastructure information acquisition unit, acquiring virtual infrastructure information from a virtual infrastructure that virtually manages a set of a plurality of radio access network nodes; and by a virtual infrastructure information provision unit, providing the virtual infrastructure information to the rApp through the R1 interface in the Non-RT RIC (Non-Real Time RAN Intelligent Controller) of the O-RAN. The virtual infrastructure information acquisition unit is provided in the SMO (Service Management and Orchestration) including the Non-RT RIC, and acquires the virtual infrastructure information from the virtual infrastructure through the O2 interface. The virtual infrastructure information includes information on at least one of configuration and telemetry of the virtual infrastructure.