RIC-Based E2 Node Control for Network Slice DRB Allocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 5G mobile communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing resources and services across network slices and cells, particularly in multi-vendor environments, leading to complexities in load balancing and resource allocation.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC) that controls E2 nodes, cells, and slices through an E2 message, allowing for centralized management of resource allocation and load balancing across different vendors and technologies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If centralized management through RIC is implemented, then resource allocation efficiency and load balancing are improved, but system complexity and control overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The RIC acts as an intermediary controller between the core network and E2 nodes, centralizing resource management functions. The RIC receives resource allocation requests from the core network and translates them into E2 messages for distribution to E2 nodes, thereby improving resource allocation efficiency while isolating system complexity within the RIC layer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system segments control functions by separating centralized RIC management from distributed E2 node operations. The RIC handles high-level resource allocation and load balancing decisions, while E2 nodes execute specific control actions, dividing the complex management task into manageable segments across different system layers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If E2 message format is standardized for multi-vendor environments, then compatibility and ease of operation are improved, but flexibility in implementing vendor-specific optimizations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidvendor-specific optimization flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The E2 message format is designed as a universal standardized structure that can be used across multi-vendor environments. The message includes flexible fields that can accommodate vendor-specific extensions while maintaining a common core structure, allowing the same message format to serve both standardization requirements and vendor-specific optimization needs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12557009B2Apparatus and method for E2 node control and cell control in wireless communication system

Publication Date: 2026.02.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A method performed by a Distributed Unit (DU) (e.g., included in a 5G or 6G communication system) may include receiving a control message from a Radio Access Network (RAN) Intelligent Controller (RIC), wherein the control message includes control information for controlling Data Radio Bearer (DRB) allocation in each network slice, identifying, from a request message for setting one or more DRBs of a terminal, Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI) of the one or more DRBs, and setting the number of DRBs allocatable in a network slice corresponding to the S-NSSAI, based on the control information.