Reconfigurable RAN Functional Structure for Multi-RAT Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rigid structuring of Radio Access Networks (RAN) topologies limits the flexibility and scalability of multi-Radio Access Technology (RAT) systems, leading to increased deployment costs, operational complexity, and suboptimal utilization of infrastructure and radio resources.
Innovation Solution
A unified RAN functional structure with reconfigurable connection points and functional elements that jointly perform Radio Transmission Functions (RTFs) and Non-RTFs across multiple RATs, allowing for flexible deployment and adaptation based on the deployment environment and available hardware capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid structuring of RAN topologies is used, then system stability and ease of deployment are improved, but flexibility and scalability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RAN into separate functional components: RTF components (radio transmission functions) and non-RTF components (non-radio transmission functions). This segmentation allows each component to be independently deployed, configured, and managed, providing both structural stability through defined boundaries and flexibility through independent adaptability of each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a unified non-RTF component that serves multiple RATs (Radio Access Technologies) simultaneously. This universal component provides common functions such as mobility management, session management, and billing for different RATs including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, eliminating the need for separate non-RTF components for each RAT and thereby improving scalability.
2Ease of manufacture
If rigid structuring of RAN topologies is used, then deployment process is simplified, but deployment costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the RAN into modular RTF and non-RTF components, the patent enables independent deployment of each component type. Operators can deploy RTF components for specific RATs while sharing a common unified non-RTF component, simplifying the overall deployment process while reducing operational complexity through standardized interfaces and management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the non-RTF functions of multiple RATs into a single unified component. This consolidation reduces operational complexity by providing centralized management of common functions such as authentication, billing, and mobility management, while eliminating the need to operate and maintain separate non-RTF components for each RAT.
3Reliability
If separate non-RTF components are used for each RAT, then RAT-specific optimization is improved, but resource utilization and scalability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified non-RTF component that provides multi-functional support for multiple RATs. This universal component maintains RAT-specific optimization through configurable parameters and policies for each RAT while sharing common infrastructure, thereby improving resource utilization and enabling easy scalability to support new RATs without requiring separate component deployments.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified non-RTF component incorporates dynamic configuration capabilities that allow it to adapt to different RAT requirements in real-time. This dynamic behavior enables the component to optimize performance for specific RATs when needed while maintaining the ability to scale and support additional RATs by simply configuring the existing component rather than deploying new hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A structuring and deployment method is provided for a radio access network in a cellular wireless communication system, employing a single or plurality of Radio Access Technologies (RATs). The method consists of: Unifying the performance of non-Radio Transmission Functions (non-RTFs) in multi-RAT systems; providing a flexible RAN topology, comprising reconfigurable Connection Points (CPs) that may be supplemented by reconfigurable RAN Functional Elements (RFEs), that is capable of adapting to system deployment environments; Reconfiguration of the implementation of RAN functions based on changes in the available system hardware and links.