RAN Intelligent Controller Lock-Based Conflict Mitigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Operational conflicts between applications (xApps) deployed on a radio access network (RAN) can lead to performance degradation and system instability, as different xApps may attempt to configure or control the same network parameters without proper coordination.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that manage operational conflicts by determining whether a request from one xApp to configure a control parameter is permitted by another xApp that has control over that parameter. The system adjusts the parameter only if permission is granted and denies the request if permission is denied or if the adjustment would conflict with an existing configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple xApps are allowed to independently configure control parameters, then system adaptability and functionality are improved, but operational conflicts and system stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a conflict management system that acts as an intermediary between multiple xApps and the control parameters they seek to configure. This mediator detects potential conflicts before they occur and resolves them through a structured process, allowing multiple xApps to coexist and configure parameters without directly interfering with each other, thus maintaining both adaptability and stability
2Reliability
If access to control parameters is restricted through permission checks, then system stability is improved, but operational complexity and processing time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The conflict management system performs preliminary detection and resolution of potential conflicts before xApps actually configure control parameters. By checking for conflicts in advance and establishing a resolution process beforehand, the system avoids the need for complex real-time permission checks during parameter configuration, reducing operational complexity while maintaining stability
3Reliability
If conflict detection and resolution processes are implemented, then system stability is improved, but processing time and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting and preventing conflicts before they can negatively impact system operation. The conflict management system proactively identifies potential conflicts and resolves them through a structured process that includes detecting conflicts, determining which xApp should have priority, and preventing the conflicting configuration from being applied, thus maintaining stability without requiring continuous monitoring and intervention
Data Source
AI summary
The described technology is generally directed towards conflict management of applications implemented on a radio access network (RAN) network. Control of an operational parameter can be assigned to a first xApp such that in the event of a second xApp is configured to adjust the parameter, the effect of applying the second xApp to the parameter is assessed based on whether the second xApp positively or negatively affects the configuration initially applied by the first xApp to the parameter. In the event of the second xApp negatively affecting the parameter, implementation of the second xApp can be denied. In the event of the second xApp positively or neutrally affects the parameter configuration applied by the first xApp, implementation of the second xApp can be approved. While implementation of the second xApp undergoes review, an access lock can be placed on the parameter to prevent another xApp from accessing the parameter.