Virtual Nodes in Fixed Access Networks for Multicast Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fixed access networks, the current architecture faces challenges in providing high-quality user experiences due to increased bandwidth consumption and longer time delays for multicast services and communication between users, particularly when virtual network operators need to manage resources across the network.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of virtual nodes within the access network allows for the placement of third-party functions closer to user locations, enabling improved communication efficiency and quality of service by providing virtual MAC addresses for layer 2 network elements, which facilitates flexible deployment and reduces overhead in data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the access network establishes separate channels for multicast video data to each UE through the virtual network operator, then the virtual network operator can control the service function, but the bandwidth consumption in the access network increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate service functions into a centralized virtual network operator that handles multicast video data distribution. Instead of establishing separate channels through individual access network paths, the virtual network operator consolidates the service control function, allowing single-channel distribution to multiple UEs simultaneously. This reduces bandwidth consumption while maintaining service control flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual network operator acts as an intermediary between the access network and UEs for multicast services. It receives video data once and distributes it to multiple UEs through optimized paths, eliminating the need for the access network to establish separate channels for each UE. This intermediary role reduces overall bandwidth consumption while preserving service control capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communication data between users is routed through the virtual network operator, then the virtual network operator can manage the service, but the communication time delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by allowing direct peer-to-peer communication between UEs for certain services while maintaining virtual network operator control for other functions. For time-sensitive communications, data can be routed directly between UEs without passing through the virtual network operator, reducing delay. The virtual network operator maintains service management capability by controlling non-time-critical functions and overseeing the overall service architecture.
3Loss of time
If the access infrastructure network provides direct logic connection between UEs without virtual network operator intervention, then communication delay is reduced, but the virtual network operator cannot control service functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic routing architecture where the path between UEs can switch between direct connection and virtual network operator-mediated connection based on service requirements. For time-sensitive applications, direct connections are established to minimize delay. For services requiring virtual network operator control (e.g., multicast video, advertisement insertion), the routing dynamically routes through the virtual network operator. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between delay reduction and service control flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The existing access network provides a logic communication connection between the UE and the third network/service operator. The invention provides a method operating in a access network and UEs, wherein, it is provided in the access network a virtual node for at least one third party, the virtual node being used for bearing and operating the function defined by the third party, the UE accesses from the fixed access network, and the access network provides the UE with the communication connection between the UE and the virtual node of the expected third network/service operator. According to the embodiment of the invention, it enables the access network to accommodate the virtual node to operate the function related to the third party, and improves the function topology architecture of the network, to provide users with better user experience quality. Preferably, the access network uses the virtual MAC address (VMAC@) as the address of the virtual node, which makes the virtual node exist in the layer 2 network element and increases the data transmission efficiency.