Virtualized OpenRAN Platform for Multi-Generation Network Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G networks face challenges in efficiently deploying and managing networks in rural and urban environments due to high deployment and operational costs, capacity issues, and the need for seamless mobility and quality of service across different generations of cellular technologies.
Innovation Solution
The OpenRAN solution suite, which includes a software platform with virtualized software providing open RAN controller functionality, network orchestrator functionality, and SON edge core functionality, integrated with commodity hardware, enabling flexible and scalable deployment and management of 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks, supporting network slicing and edge intelligence for enhanced user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional 5G networks are deployed using conventional hardware and architecture, then network reliability and service quality are maintained, but deployment cost and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 5G network into virtualized functional components (vEPC, vMME, vSGW, vPGW) that can be independently deployed and managed. This virtualization approach maintains network reliability while reducing deployment complexity by allowing modular installation and flexible configuration compared to traditional monolithic hardware systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hardware-based network architecture with software-defined virtualization. The virtualized network functions run on standard servers using software emulations, substituting complex physical infrastructure with more flexible software-based systems that are easier to deploy and manage while maintaining service quality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive network coverage is provided across rural and urban areas, then service accessibility is improved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal virtualized network platform that can serve multiple network generations (2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) and various service types through a single infrastructure. This multi-functionality allows the same deployed system to provide comprehensive coverage across different areas and services, improving adaptability while controlling deployment costs through resource sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes dynamic parameter adjustment in the virtualized network functions to optimize resource allocation based on deployment requirements. By changing configuration parameters of virtual network elements, the system can adapt to different deployment scenarios (rural vs. urban) without requiring separate infrastructure, thereby reducing overall deployment costs while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
3Productivity
If network capacity is increased to support more users and data traffic, then service capability is improved, but operational complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation in the virtualized network functions, allowing the system to dynamically adjust capacity based on real-time traffic demands. Virtual network elements can be scaled up or down automatically, providing increased network capacity when needed while maintaining operational simplicity through automated management rather than manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtualized network architecture enables self-service operations where the system automatically manages its own capacity and configuration. The virtualization layer abstracts the complexity of capacity management, allowing the network to self-adjust and self-optimize without requiring complex manual intervention, thus increasing productivity while reducing operational complexity.
4Reliability
If seamless mobility and quality of service are ensured across different generations, then user experience is improved, but network management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a virtualization layer as an intermediary between different network generations and functions. This virtualization layer acts as a mediator that standardizes interfaces and protocols, enabling seamless mobility and quality of service across 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks while simplifying management by providing a unified control plane that abstracts the underlying network diversity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and computer software are disclosed for providing an OpenRAN solution suite. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed, the method including communicating, by an all G COTS (Commercial off the Shelf) Base Band Unit (BBU), with a plurality of different G user devices; communicating, by a software platform, with the all G COTS BBU, wherein the software platform includes virtualized software providing open RAN controller functionality, network orchestrator functionality, and SON edge core functionality; and communicating, by the software platform, with a plurality of different G core networks.