RAN Protocol Processing Function for 6G Data Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G wireless networks have limitations in data processing operations within the radio access network (RAN) and user plane protocol stack, which hinder the availability and provision of new services required in 6G networks, such as data analytics, AI training, and AI inference.
Innovation Solution
A RAN protocol is introduced with a processing function (PF) sublayer that enables data parsing and processing within the network, allowing for enhanced data handling capabilities, including data analytics, AI training, and AI inference, by retrieving, processing, and constructing protocol data units (PDUs) at the RAN node or UE.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional 5G wireless networks are used for data transmission, then connectivity-oriented communication services are provided, but data parsing and processing operations within the network are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the user plane protocol stack into distinct functional layers: a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer for data adaptation, a processing function (PF) layer for data parsing and processing, and a 5G RAN user plane protocol layer for transmission. This segmentation allows each layer to perform specific operations independently, enabling data processing capabilities while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional layer (the PF layer) between the SDAP layer and the 5G RAN user plane protocol layer. This additional dimension enables data parsing and processing operations to be performed at the network level without disrupting the existing 5G connectivity framework, thus extending functionality while preserving backward compatibility.
2Productivity
If limited operations are performed by the RAN in current 5G networks, then network simplicity is maintained, but availability of new 6G services is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The processing function (PF) layer is designed as a universal processing unit that can perform multiple operations including data parsing, data processing, and service data adaptation. This multi-functional design enables the RAN to support various 6G services (data analytics, AI training, AI inference) while using a single standardized processing framework, thereby increasing service availability without proportionally increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The PF layer acts as an intermediary between the SDAP layer and the 5G RAN user plane protocol layer, providing a standardized interface for data processing operations. This intermediary structure allows complex processing functions to be abstracted away from the transmission layer, enabling enhanced service capabilities while maintaining relatively simple RAN operations through standardized protocols.
3Adaptability or versatility
If data parsing and processing are enabled within the network, then network-native data processing is achieved, but protocol layer complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol stack is segmented into distinct functional layers with clear boundaries: the SDAP layer handles service data adaptation, the PF layer handles data parsing and processing, and the 5G RAN user plane protocol layer handles transmission. This segmentation isolates complexity to specific layers while maintaining simplicity in other layers, enabling network-native data processing without overwhelming the entire protocol structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The PF layer is nested within the user plane protocol stack between the SDAP layer and the 5G RAN user plane protocol layer. This nested structure allows data processing functionality to be embedded within the existing 5G framework without requiring a complete protocol redesign, thus enhancing service capability while controlling overall protocol layer complexity through hierarchical organization.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides for systems and methods for a radio access network (RAN) protocol for future X-centric service network. According to an aspect, a method for providing a network service is provided. The method includes receiving, by a first device from a second device, at least one protocol data unit (PDU) containing at least one service data unit (SDU) associated with the network service. The method further includes retrieving, by the first device, the at least one SDU from the at least one PDU. The method further includes processing, by the first device, the at least one SDU to obtain a processed version of the at least one SDU. The method further includes constructing, by the first device, at least one additional PDU comprising the processed version of the at least one SDU. The method further includes sending, by the first device to the second device, the at least one additional PDU.