Wireless Resource Coordination Across 4G and 5G Access Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks struggle with inefficient resource allocation and dynamic response to changing demands, leading to delayed service instantiation and poor network flexibility, particularly in 5G networks, due to vendor-specific equipment and integrated control planes.
Innovation Solution
A management gateway (MGW) device coordinates between 4G and 5G radio access networks, dynamically reallocating resources based on geographic coverage, loading, and service requirements, using Software Defined Network (SDN) elements to facilitate seamless transitions and optimize network performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vendor-specific equipment with integrated control planes is used, then device functionality is provided, but network flexibility and dynamic response are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control plane from the data plane by introducing a centralized SDN controller that manages control functions separately from the radio access network elements. This separation allows the control plane to be independently optimized and dynamically reconfigured, improving network flexibility without adding complexity to individual network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller acts as an intermediary between the management system and the radio access network elements. It receives service instantiation requests, makes intelligent routing decisions, and coordinates resource allocation across 4G and 5G networks, enabling dynamic response to changing demands while maintaining simple, standardized interfaces at the network edge.
2Productivity
If static resource allocation is used, then network stability is maintained, but responsiveness to changing demands decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the SDN controller with network topology information, capability databases for different radio access network elements, and service templates. This preparation enables the controller to rapidly instantiate services by simply matching requests with pre-validated configurations, dramatically reducing service setup time while maintaining network stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the SDN controller continuously monitors network conditions, device capabilities, and service demands. It dynamically adjusts resource allocation, selects optimal radio access network elements, and reconfigures service paths in real-time, enabling the network to respond rapidly to changing demands while maintaining stable operation through centralized coordination.
3Speed
If 5G network is prioritized for high-speed services, then service quality is improved, but network congestion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by matching service requirements with the capabilities of specific radio access network elements. High-speed services are allocated to 5G nodes where available, while other services are distributed to 4G nodes or other suitable elements. This localized optimization ensures high-speed services receive appropriate resources without unnecessarily loading the entire 5G network, balancing speed delivery with congestion management.
Solution Approach 2:
The SDN controller dynamically changes allocation parameters based on real-time network conditions. When 5G network load increases, the controller adjusts service allocation parameters to distribute traffic to 4G networks or other available nodes. This parameter adjustment enables the system to maintain high-speed service delivery where possible while preventing network congestion through flexible, condition-based resource allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method including determining according to first information associated with a first wireless access network and second information associated with a second wireless access network, whether to facilitate communication in a geographic area between a first wireless communication device and a communication network via the second wireless access network, and, in turn, directing a second wireless access device of the second wireless access network to facilitate the communication between the first wireless communication device and the communication network, and directing a first wireless access device of the first wireless access network to stop facilitating second communication between the first wireless communication device and the communication network. Other embodiments are disclosed.