Adaptive bearer split control for 5G multi-RAT scenarios with dual connectivity

Abstract

The Dual Connectivity (DC) technology has gained a lot of momentum as an underlying fundamental concept for the deployment of multi-Radio Access Technology (RAT) 5G mobile networks based on the tight interworking between the Long Term Evolution (LTE) and 5th Generation (5G) standards. In the so-called bearer split configuration of the DC technology, a flow control mechanism executed at a Master Node (MN) controls the bearer split ratios such that the correct amount of data is transmitted from the MN and Secondary Nodes (SNs) to enhance the Quality of Service (QoS) provision. In this context, the present work proposes a flow control algorithm that maximizes the user satisfaction by dynamically orchestrating the bearer split ratios based on the adaptation of utility functions. The adaptation is performed according to a predefined network operator goal, such as maintaining a certain QoS level at a given network node. Furthermore, the proposed solution tracks the channel and QoS metrics variations such that the best split ratios are employed. Simulations conducted in 5G multi-RAT scenarios show that the adaptability of the proposed algorithm effectively maximizes the user satisfaction as well as enhances the users and system throughput when compared to state-of-the-art algorithms from the literature.