X2 Interface Release Management in LTE Base Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LTE networks face operational challenges in efficiently removing and permanently disconnecting X2 interfaces between eNBs, leading to unnecessary reconfigurations and signaling issues, as existing methods require manual intervention and lack a way to prevent retry attempts.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a release message with an indicator is sent between eNBs to permanently or temporarily discontinue the X2 interface, preventing future setup attempts, allowing for efficient management and distinction between accidental and intentional disconnections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual intervention is used to remove X2 interfaces between eNBs, then the interface can be disconnected, but operational complexity increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-service for X2 interface management. The releasing eNB autonomously determines when to release an X2 interface and sends release messages to the peer eNB without requiring manual operator intervention. This automation resolves the contradiction by making the system self-managing while reducing operational complexity through standardized protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new parameter (indicator field) in the release message that changes the state of the interface management system. By adding this parameter indicating permanent release, the system transforms the interface removal process from a manual operation to an automated state-based decision, improving productivity while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If existing release methods are used without prevention indicators, then interface release is possible, but unnecessary reconfiguration attempts occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary anti-action by including an indicator in the release message that preemptively prevents the receiving eNB from attempting to re-establish the X2 interface. This indicator acts as a preventive measure that stops unnecessary reconfiguration attempts before they occur, thereby improving reliability and eliminating time loss from futile retry attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The release message with the indicator provides feedback to the receiving eNB about the permanent release status. This feedback mechanism ensures that the receiving eNB understands the interface should not be re-established, preventing wasted reconfiguration attempts and improving overall system reliability.
3Ease of operation
If automated release procedures are implemented, then operational complexity reduces, but distinction between accidental and intentional disconnections becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves this contradiction by introducing a specific parameter (indicator field with different values) in the release message that encodes the intent information. The indicator can take different values to distinguish between permanent and temporary releases, allowing automated procedures to preserve and transmit disconnection intent information without increasing operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A first base station and a second base station, comprised in a wireless communication network, for managing a communication interface that is already set-up for communication between said base stations. The first base station determines to release said communication interface and sends, in response to the determination, a release message to the second base station. The release message commands the second base station to release the communication interface and comprises an indicator that indicates that it shall be avoided to attempt to again set up the communication interface and/or to set-up any further communication interface between the first base station and the second base station.