PROTEUS-6G

This scenario aims to realise the potential of dynamic functional split as novel RAN alternative going one step beyond the 3GPP/O-RAN vision. The key concept is to dynamically adjust the functional split according to the specific demands of traffic and services. This task is particularly challenging when multiple RUs share the same fronthaul network. However, once managed, it would unlock the opportunity to optimise the multiplexing gain across the RUs and adapt the dynamic functional split selection to the varying traffic requirements of all cells connected by common fronthaul/midhaul links. By implementing this capability, we empower the RAN architecture to be more efficient and flexible, optimally suited to varying needs of diverse network scenarios. In Fig. 1, different examples of function placement are depicted, for various degrees of functional split in the RU/DU/CU, ranging from less restrictive in terms of fronthaul network requirements (blue) to most demanding in
terms of capacity and latency (orange). E.g., the blue cell site has all PHY and MAC functions at the RU, whereas the RLC functions are hosted at the DU, and the CU only hosts the layer 3 PDCP function. This represents a split option 4 for fronthaul and split option 2 for midhaul, which is a least demanding example in terms of capacity and latency.