Aggregated Tunnel Protocol for SMF Packet Overhead Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks face inefficiencies in packet aggregation, particularly in wireless networks with mobile user equipment, due to varying channel capacity and high overhead introduced by protocols like GTP-U, which is problematic for IoT devices sending small packets, leading to increased overhead-to-data ratios.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of flexible network architectures with new aggregated tunnel protocols and transmission methods that minimize tunnel protocol overhead by selectively using per PDU session tunnels or aggregated tunnels based on packet size and quality of service requirements, allowing for efficient delivery of packets between network nodes while reducing overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If GTP-U protocol is used for packet aggregation in wireless networks, then packet tunneling capability is provided, but overhead becomes prohibitively large for small packets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tunneling function by introducing a lightweight tunnel header format that is selectively applied only when needed. Instead of always using full GTP-U headers, the system divides the header into essential fields only, eliminating unnecessary overhead fields for small packet transmissions while maintaining tunneling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the header parameters by defining a compact header format with reduced field sizes and optional fields. The header length is dynamically adjusted based on packet requirements, changing from fixed 12-byte GTP-U headers to variable-length headers that minimize overhead for small packets while preserving necessary tunneling information.
2Reliability
If per PDU session tunnels are used for each UE, then quality of service requirements are met, but bandwidth consumption increases due to repeated headers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple PDU session tunnels into a single aggregated tunnel when QoS requirements permit. By combining traffic from multiple sessions into one tunnel with a shared header, the system reduces redundant header transmissions and saves bandwidth while maintaining individual session QoS guarantees through proper header field management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal header format that can serve multiple PDU sessions simultaneously. The aggregated tunnel header is designed to be multi-functional, accommodating different session requirements through flexible field structures that can represent multiple sessions' QoS parameters in a single header instance.
3Loss of energy
If aggregated tunnels are used to reduce overhead, then bandwidth efficiency improves, but handling of mobile user equipment with varying channel capacity becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic aggregation parameters that can be adjusted in real-time based on channel conditions and UE mobility state. The aggregation window size, timeout values, and header compression levels are made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the system to adapt to varying channel capacity and mobility requirements while maintaining aggregation benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the receiving end monitors aggregation performance and sends control signals back to adjust aggregation parameters. This feedback loop enables the system to respond to changing channel conditions and mobility patterns, optimizing the balance between overhead reduction and mobility support capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems and architectures are described which provide at least one aggregated tunnel protocol, in addition to the existing per PDU session tunnel protocols (1, 2,…N). When the UE requests a new PDU session or a new QoS flow, the SMF may establish a Per PDU Session Tunnel to serve this PDU session. Alternatively, an Aggregated Tunnel may be selected to serve the PDU session or to serve the QoS flow. When a packet from a UE arrives, the receiving network function can send this packet either using a per PDU session tunnel protocol or aggregated tunnel protocol.