SDN Controller Dynamic Backhaul Routing for 5G Small Cells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular mobility backhaul technologies face challenges in providing adequate backhaul for small cell transmission points, especially with the increasing demand for network speed and efficiency, as they lack dynamic partitioning and robust routing capabilities, particularly in 5G networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network-based controller using Software-Defined Networking (SDN) concepts to dynamically partition network resources and optimize backhaul routes based on transmission point conditions, user equipment data, and operator policies, enabling multi-hop capabilities and robust self-backhauling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional backhaul technologies are used for small cell transmission points, then network coverage can be provided, but network efficiency and reliability are insufficient due to lack of dynamic partitioning and robust routing capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource partitioning that allows transmission points to switch between half-duplex and full-duplex modes based on real-time network conditions. The system dynamically adjusts backhaul resource allocation, routing paths, and transmission modes to optimize reliability and adapt to changing traffic demands, transforming static backhaul infrastructure into a flexible, adaptive network
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as transmission mode (half-duplex/full-duplex), resource allocation ratios, and routing paths based on network conditions. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system achieves both improved reliability and adaptability, resolving the contradiction between stable operation and flexible response to changing conditions
2Productivity
If dynamic resource partitioning is implemented, then network efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary component that centralizes the complexity of dynamic resource partitioning. The controller receives feedback from transmission points, makes optimization decisions, and coordinates resource allocation across the network. This intermediary approach enables high network efficiency while containing complexity in a dedicated management entity rather than distributing it across all network elements
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments control functions by separating the controller from transmission points. The controller handles complex optimization algorithms, routing decisions, and resource partitioning logic, while transmission points execute simplified commands. This segmentation allows network efficiency to be improved through centralized intelligence while individual device complexity remains manageable
3Reliability
If multi-hop backhaul routing is implemented, then network coverage and robustness improve, but transmission latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects between single-hop and multi-hop routing paths based on real-time network conditions, traffic requirements, and link quality. When low latency is critical, the system prefers direct single-hop paths. When robustness is prioritized or direct paths are unavailable, multi-hop routes are activated. This dynamic path selection balances latency and reliability according to current operational needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where transmission points report link quality, traffic load, and performance metrics to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to continuously optimize routing decisions, selecting multi-hop paths only when they provide net benefit. Real-time monitoring and adjustment ensure that latency increases from multi-hop routing are minimized and justified by improved robustness
Data Source
AI summary
A more efficient network can be achieved using a network-based controller to configure routing tables to route data traffic to and from transmission points. Dynamic partitioning of network resources between the transmission points and a backhaul can be performed in conjunction with a resource scheduler of a network-based controller. The scheduler can relay scheduling metrics or benefit metrics from the network-based controller to the transmission points. Backhaul route optimization can also be used to select relay transmission points based upon conditions being determined to be satisfied.