SDN-Based Backhaul Architecture for Small Cell Signaling Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current backhaul access networks in wireless communication systems face bottlenecks due to proprietary equipment, high signaling overhead, and limited flexibility, hindering technological progress and causing service interruptions and financial losses as signaling traffic grows rapidly.
Innovation Solution
The LayBack architecture decouples radio access networks from backhaul networks, using software-defined networking (SDN) to create a flexible and adaptive framework that supports multiple RAN technologies, including LTE, WiFi, and WiMax, with a new network entity called RAN Detection and Assist (RADA) for dynamic configuration and interference mitigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proprietary network equipment with locked-in control software is used in backhaul access networks, then high reliability and availability are achieved, but flexibility and adaptability deteriorate, making it difficult to add new functionalities or reconfigure operational states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the backhaul access network into separate functional components: a control plane (SDN controller) and a data plane (network equipment). This separation allows the control plane to be reconfigured dynamically through software while the data plane maintains high reliability through standardized hardware, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration capabilities through SDN controllers that can programmatically adjust network parameters, add new functionalities, and reconfigure operational states in real-time. This dynamic control plane enables adaptability without compromising the stability of the underlying network infrastructure
2Adaptability or versatility
If technology-specific functional blocks are used for different RAN technologies in conventional backhaul networks, then each specific technology is supported, but device complexity and difficulty of integration increase, preventing multi-technology support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal backhaul access network architecture that can support multiple RAN technologies (LTE, WiMax, WiFi) through a single standardized interface. The SDN controller provides technology-agnostic management capabilities, eliminating the need for separate functional blocks for each technology and reducing overall network complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an SDN controller as an intermediary layer between diverse RAN technologies and the core network. This mediator translates and manages multiple technology-specific protocols through a unified control interface, enabling multi-technology support without increasing endpoint complexity
3Productivity
If LTE protocol with higher signaling overhead is used, then advanced wireless layer techniques are enabled, but signaling traffic increases 50% faster than data traffic, causing service interruptions and financial losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts signaling management functions from the data plane and concentrates them in the control plane. By separating control signaling from user data traffic and managing signaling centrally through SDN controllers, the system reduces redundant signaling overhead while maintaining the advanced wireless capabilities provided by LTE protocols
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a four-step intra-LayBack handover protocol within a given gateway in an SDN-LayBack architecture are disclosed. The intra-LayBack handover reduces the signaling load by 60% in comparison with conventional LTE handover within a given serving gateway.