Virtual Distributed Unit for Edge Computing Latency Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in quickly processing user traffic to support the ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) function in 5G systems, particularly within the structure of mobile edge nodes and cloud edge nodes. Additionally, third-party companies and communication operators lack the necessary interfacing technology for communication protocols and virtual base station structures, limiting their ability to provide MEC-based services effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a virtual distributed unit (vDU) and virtual central unit (vCU) in a wireless communication system supporting mobile edge computing. These units include connectors for signal transmission and reception with radio units and core network devices, memory for cache data, and processors to control protocol data units and identify indicator information related to mobile edge computing, enabling efficient data transmission and reduction of latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If user traffic is processed through existing mobile edge nodes and cloud edge nodes, then data transmission can be achieved, but latency cannot be reduced sufficiently to meet URLLC requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the radio access network into virtual distributed units (vDUs) and virtual centralized units (vCUs), allowing vDUs to be deployed at edge locations closer to users. This segmentation enables localized data processing that reduces transmission latency while meeting URLLC reliability requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces virtual distributed units as intermediary components between end users and the core network. These vDUs act as intermediaries that can cache and forward data locally, reducing the need for distant cloud edge node access and thereby reducing latency for time-sensitive applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual base station structures are implemented without proper interfacing technology, then deployment flexibility can be achieved, but third-party companies and communication operators cannot provide MEC-based services effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the virtual distributed unit with universal interfaces that can interact with multiple types of network elements including radio units, virtual centralized units, and external MEC servers. This multi-functionality enables third-party companies and communication operators to deploy MEC-based services effectively while maintaining deployment flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual distributed unit serves as an intermediary layer that provides standardized interfaces between diverse network components. This intermediary function enables seamless integration of MEC services while maintaining the flexibility of virtualized deployments, allowing different operators to utilize the infrastructure effectively.
3Speed
If cache data is stored in virtual distributed units, then data access speed can be improved, but storage capacity is consumed that could be used for other services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local caching in virtual distributed units with the specific quality of storing frequently accessed data locally to improve access speed. This local quality approach allows hot data to be served from vDU cache while cold data can be fetched from cloud edge nodes, optimizing the trade-off between access speed and storage capacity utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a communication technique and system that fuse 5th generation (5G) or pre-5G communication system with Internet of things (IoT) technology to support higher data transfer rate after 4th generation (4G) communication system, such as long term evolution (LTE). The disclosure applies to intelligent services (e.g., a smart home, a smart building, a smart city, a smart car or a connected car, healthcare, digital education, retail, security and safety related services, and the like) based on 5G communication technology and IoT related technology. A method and a device for supporting edge computing in a virtual radio access network are provided.