Geographic Dispersion of RAN Node Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio access network (RAN) solutions lack the ability to optimally place RAN functions according to service requirements, as they typically fix the location of RAN functions at either the cell site or a central site, failing to distinguish between control plane and user plane entities, which limits flexibility and efficiency in meeting diverse network design objectives.
Innovation Solution
A Radio Access Network Node (RANN) entity is introduced, allowing RAN functions to be instantiated in geographically dispersed locations within a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), with dynamic location determination for different services and sessions, separating control plane and user plane functions, and using a dual-connectivity protocol stack model to optimize function placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RAN functions are fixed at cell site or central site, then network deployment is simplified, but flexibility to meet diverse service requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The RAN node is segmented into multiple independent function entities (control plane entities and user plane entities) that can be independently instantiated at different geographic locations. This segmentation allows each function to be optimally placed based on service requirements while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The location of RAN function entities is made dynamic rather than fixed. Different function entities can be instantiated at different locations depending on the service requirements, data session needs, and network conditions, allowing the system to adapt flexibly to diverse scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control plane and user plane entities are co-located, then system complexity is reduced, but ability to optimize function placement for different services is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The RAN node is divided into separate control plane entities and user plane entities. This functional separation allows independent optimization of each entity's location based on its specific requirements, enabling control functions to be centralized while user plane functions are distributed closer to the radio access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces interface endpoints as intermediaries that enable communication between geographically dispersed function entities. These interface endpoints facilitate the exchange of control plane and user plane messages between entities located at different positions within the PLMN.
3Reliability
If all RAN functions are centralized, then network security is enhanced, but latency for local traffic processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different RAN function entities are placed at different geographic locations according to their specific functional requirements. User plane entities that handle local traffic can be instantiated close to cell sites to reduce latency, while control plane entities that require high security can be centralized in secure data centers.
Data Source
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AI summary
A Radio Access Network Node (RANN) for managing communications in a public land mobile network (PLMN). The RANN comprises a plurality of RANN function entities configured to be instantiated in at least two geographically dispersed locations of the public land mobile network (PLMN), and further configured to communicate with each other to implement the functions of the RANN; and one or more interface end points configured to exchange control plane and user plane messages between the RANN and other entities of the PLMN, each interface end point being associated with at least one RANN function entity.