Transport Network Path Control for Flexible 5G U-Plane Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network configurations in 5G wireless communication systems do not allow for independent development or selection of U-plane transport network functions, limiting flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A generic Transport Network (TN) system is introduced, comprising a network node that receives and processes information to configure and manage TN paths, enabling independent development and selection of U-plane transport network functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional GTP-U based transport network is used, then the network architecture is simple and well-defined, but independent development and selection of transport network functions cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The transport network control function is segmented into a dedicated TN control node that is separate from the UPF and other core network elements. This TN control node independently manages transport network configuration, path setup, and resource allocation, allowing the transport network to be developed and selected independently while maintaining a clean separation of concerns and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The TN control node acts as an intermediary between the UPF and the transport network infrastructure. It receives transport network configuration requests from the UPF, processes them through standardized interfaces, and manages the actual transport network resources. This intermediary layer enables independent development of transport network functions while providing a unified control point that simplifies the overall architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transport network protocols and technologies are supported for independent selection, then versatility and flexibility are improved, but system complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The TN control node is designed with universal functionality to support multiple transport network protocols and technologies including SRv6, optical transportation networks, and other future technologies. It provides a unified control interface and standardized configuration mechanisms that work across different transport network types, allowing operators to select and switch between different protocols and technologies without changing the overall system architecture or increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables flexible selection of transport network technologies through parameter-based configuration rather than structural changes. The TN control node manages transport network parameters such as protocol types, path characteristics, and resource allocations, allowing operators to change transport network technology parameters to match different service requirements while maintaining consistent control mechanisms and reducing configuration difficulty.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network node includes: a reception unit configured to receive information including a destination address for UL (Uplink), a destination address for DL (Downlink), a number of paths, and traffic characteristics information of each of the paths from a first network node; a control unit configured to generate information for performing an internal configuration of a TN (Transport Network), based on the information; and a transmission unit configured to transmit the generated information to a second network node that controls the TN. The reception unit receives each of results of the internal configuration of the network from the second network node, the control unit generates TN path setup complete information including a list having a number of entries corresponding to the number of paths, each of the entries including an ingress communication port name of one end, an egress communication port name of the other end, and path traffic characteristics information, based on each of the configuration results, and the transmission unit transmits a TN path setup complete including the TN path setup complete information to the first network node.