Small Cell Aggregation for Reliable Core Network Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Next Generation wireless networks face challenges in scalability, link capacity, and reliability of communication links between radio access networks and core networks, particularly with small cell devices, due to unreliable IP-based backhaul links and network resource taxation, impacting user and control plane traffic.
Innovation Solution
A small cell aggregation service is implemented through an intermediary network device that manages and routes traffic between small cell devices and core network devices using a global identifier scheme, aggregating control and user plane interfaces to improve link capacity, scalability, and network operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IP-based backhaul links are used to connect small cell devices to core network, then deployment flexibility is improved, but link reliability and security deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated aggregation network as an intermediary between small cell devices and the core network. This aggregation network provides reliable, secure connections through dedicated infrastructure (fiber optics, microwave links) while maintaining the deployment flexibility of small cells. The intermediary layer isolates the unreliable public IP infrastructure from the critical control plane communications.
2Device complexity
If each small cell device has direct connection to core network, then simplicity is improved, but network scalability and link capacity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small cell devices into an aggregated group that shares a common connection to the core network through the aggregation network. Instead of individual direct connections, multiple small cells are combined and routed through the aggregation point, enabling scalable deployment while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized aggregation interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control plane interfaces are maintained for each small cell, then device independence is improved, but network resource consumption and operations complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The aggregation network establishes universal control plane interfaces that serve multiple small cell devices simultaneously. These multi-functional interfaces handle control signaling for the entire aggregated group, reducing the number of separate network resource allocations while preserving the operational independence of individual small cells through logical separation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a device, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium are described in which a small cell aggregation service is provided. The service may include providing a global identifier for small cell devices that may be used for the transmission and reception of messages between small cell devices and core network devices. The service may include an intermediary network device, such as a gateway device or an aggregation device that uses the global identifier to transmit and receive control plane, user plane, or both types of messages, for example.