RAN Node Resilient Mode for Packet Data Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication networks, such as EPS, fail to maintain packet data connectivity when the S1-MME or S1-U interfaces are severed, disrupting communication services, especially for critical communications like public safety, as there is no effective backup solution to ensure continuous connectivity between the Radio Access Network (RAN) and the Core Network (CN).
Innovation Solution
Implementing a resilient mode in the RAN node to provide local packet data connectivity to authorized User Equipments (UEs) by enabling local routing and authentication, allowing UEs to establish communications even when connectivity to the Core Network is lost, using local Non Access Stratum procedures and security credentials for secure data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backup connectivity is implemented between RAN and Core Network, then reliability of packet data connectivity is improved, but device complexity and network complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RAN node autonomously detects connectivity status to the Core Network and automatically switches to resilient mode without requiring complex external control mechanisms. The RAN node itself performs authentication of UEs and establishes local bearers, eliminating the need for complex backup connectivity management systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The network operation is segmented into distinct modes: normal mode with full Core Network connectivity and resilient mode with local RAN node operation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity in each mode while achieving reliability through mode switching, avoiding the need for continuously complex backup infrastructure.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If resilient mode is implemented to provide local connectivity, then service continuity is improved, but network security requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Security credentials are pre-configured in the RAN node before resilient mode activation. The RAN node stores authentication data and security parameters in advance, enabling it to perform UE authentication and establish secure local bearers immediately when entering resilient mode, without requiring complex real-time security negotiations with the Core Network.
3Adaptability or versatility
If local packet data connectivity is provided in resilient mode, then adaptability to network failures is improved, but loss of information about network state increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RAN node continuously monitors connectivity status to the Core Network and maintains awareness of network state through feedback mechanisms. When connectivity is restored, the RAN node detects this change and initiates transition back to normal mode, ensuring UEs are properly re-attached to the Core Network. This feedback loop prevents permanent information loss about network state.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, there is provided a method for the support of packet data connectivity in a mobile network, said mobile network comprising a Radio Access network RAN and a Core Network CN, said method including, in case no connectivity is available between a RAN node and the Core Network, support of said packet data connectivity in a mode referred to as resilient mode wherein said packet data connectivity is provided locally by said RAN node to at least one User Equipment UE in the coverage of said RAN node, referred to as authorized UE, that is authorized to operate in said resilient mode.