Virtual MAC Segmentation for Wireless Resource Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for wireless link aggregation in multi-radio access technologies (RAT) networks do not effectively virtualize and optimize wireless resources across different service groups, leading to inefficient use of wireless spectrum and management of radio resources.
Innovation Solution
A system that performs programmable virtualization and joint optimization of wireless link aggregation by using a RAN controller to configure and control virtual MACs (vMACs) across multiple RATs, allocating wireless resources and splitting data flows based on service group attributes and properties, allowing each service group to operate independently with its own MAC layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless link aggregation is implemented across multiple RATs without virtualization, then connectivity diversity is improved, but resource allocation efficiency deteriorates due to lack of centralized optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the MAC layer into virtual MACs (vMACs) that are independently configurable for different service groups. Each vMAC can be independently optimized for specific service requirements while the RAN controller maintains centralized coordination. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of connectivity diversity through multiple RATs and resource allocation efficiency through service-group-specific optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The RAN controller acts as an intermediary between the core network and multiple RAT interfaces. It receives service requirements from the core network, translates them into appropriate vMAC configurations across different RATs, and coordinates resource allocation. This intermediary function enables centralized optimization without requiring changes to the core network or individual RAT implementations.
2Device complexity
If a single MAC layer manages multiple RATs, then system complexity is reduced, but service-specific optimization capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal RAN controller that can manage multiple RATs (LTE, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.) through a common interface and control plane. The controller is designed to be RAT-agnostic, providing unified resource management and service group configuration across heterogeneous radio access technologies. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity while maintaining the ability to optimize for specific service requirements through configurable vMAC parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different vMAC parameters for different service groups based on their specific requirements. Each service group can have customized MAC layer parameters (scheduling priorities, resource allocation patterns, QoS settings) tailored to its performance needs. This allows service-specific optimization at the local vMAC level while maintaining centralized control at the RAN controller level.
3Productivity
If wireless resources are shared across all service groups, then spectrum utilization is improved, but service quality isolation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the shared wireless resources into service-group-specific allocations through independent vMAC configurations. Each service group receives dedicated resource portions configured by the RAN controller based on service requirements. This segmentation enables both high spectrum utilization through coordinated sharing and service quality isolation through dedicated resource portions for each service group.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in vMAC configurations to dynamically adjust resource allocation patterns for different service groups. The RAN controller can modify MAC layer parameters (scheduling intervals, resource block allocations, priority levels) to optimize spectrum utilization for each service group while maintaining isolation. This allows adaptive resource sharing where parameters are tuned based on current network conditions and service requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
User equipments (UEs) that have multiple radio access technologies (RATs) are grouped together so that each group may be subjected to its own set of medium access (MAC) protocols for each RAT, while a flow destined for a UE may be communicated via one or multiple aggregated RAT interfaces on the said UE. The network operator or service provider that serves a plurality of subscribers defines a service group for said plurality of subscribers and controls the corresponding virtualized MACs for the said service group.