Enabling intermediate session management function of communication network to manage edge computing related information locally

Abstract

Methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products enable an intermediate session management function of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information. In an implementation, a network signal is received from a session management function (SMF), the network signal including (i) a data network access identifier (DNAI) associated with an application configured for local offload in a communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local offload. Further, based on the indication, a set of candidate SMFs supporting the DNAI and a local configuration of traffic offloading on the DNAI is determined, and a candidate SMF is selected from the set of candidate SMFs as an intermediate session management function (I-SMF) for the DNAI, where the candidate SMF is not an SMF associated with the network signal.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Various example embodiments relate generally to communication systems, and more particularly to network functions and edge computing functions provided by a communication network. BACKGROUND

[0002] Fourth generation (4G) wireless mobile telecommunication technology, also known as long term evolution (LTE) technology, aims to provide high data rates and high capacity mobile multimedia of machine type communications. Next generation or fifth generation (5G) technology aims to enable very high data rates via enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC), etc. Third generation partnership project (3GPP) 5G technology is the next generation of radio systems and network architecture that can deliver extreme broadband and ultra-reliable low-latency connectivity. SUMMARY

[0003] According to some aspects, the subject matter of the independent claims is provided. Some other aspects are defined in the dependent claims. Embodiments not falling within the scope of the claims are to be interpreted as examples helpful in understanding the present disclosure.

[0004] In one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus comprises: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions of an access management function that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving, from a session management function (SMF), a network signal comprising: (i) a data network access identifier (DNAI) associated with an application configured for local offload in a communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local offload. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further comprises instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: determining, based on the indication, a candidate set of SMFs that support local configuration of the DNAI and offload of traffic on the DNAI. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further comprises instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: selecting, from the candidate set of SMFs, a candidate SMF as an intermediate session management function (I-SMF) for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMF is not the SMF associated with the network signal. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further comprises instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: storing mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

[0005] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a protocol data unit (PDU) session to the I-SMF.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a PDU session to an SMF associated with the network signal.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, selecting the candidate SMF includes: removing, from a set of candidate SMFs, an SMF associated with the network signal to generate a filtered set of candidate SMFs. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, selecting the candidate SMF includes: selecting, from the filtered set of candidate SMFs, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, selecting the candidate SMF includes: selecting, based on a location of a user equipment associated with a protocol data unit (PDU) session, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment and the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports an edge domain name system client (EDC) function.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: storing an indication provided by the SMF. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: associating the indication with the selected I-SMF to generate mapping information.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: preventing a removal procedure of the inserted I-SMF based on the mapping information to enable the local offload management.

[0013] In another example embodiment, a method is provided. In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving, from a SMF, a network signal including: (i) a DNAI associated with an application configured for local offload in a communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local offload. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes determining, based on the indication, a candidate set of SMFs that support local configuration of the DNAI and offload of traffic on the DNAI. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes selecting, from the candidate set of SMFs, a candidate SMF as an I-SMF for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMF is not the SMF associated with the network signal. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes storing mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the method includes causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a PDU session to the I-SMF.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the method includes causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a PDU session to the SMF associated with the network signal.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, selecting the candidate SMF includes removing, from the candidate set of SMFs, the SMF associated with the network signal to generate a filtered candidate set of SMFs. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, selecting the candidate SMF includes selecting, from the filtered candidate set of SMFs, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, selecting the candidate SMF includes selecting, based on a location of a user equipment associated with the PDU session, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes receiving the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes receiving the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment and the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports EDC functionality.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method comprises storing the indication provided by the SMF. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method comprises associating the indication with the selected I-SMF to generate mapping information.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method comprises preventing a removal procedure of the inserted I-SMF based on the mapping information to enable local offload management.

[0022] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus provides means for receiving a network signal from a SMF, the network signal comprising: (i) a DNAI associated with an application configured for local offload in a communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local offload. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for determining a set of candidate SMFs that support local configuration of the DNAI and traffic offload on the DNAI based on the indication. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for selecting a candidate SMF from the set of candidate SMFs as an I-SMF for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMF is not the SMF associated with the network signal. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for storing mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a PDU session to the I-SMF.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for causing transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a PDU session to the SMF associated with the network signal.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the means for selecting the candidate SMF comprises means for removing the SMF associated with the network signal from the set of candidate SMFs to generate a filtered set of candidate SMFs. In one or more embodiments, the means for selecting the candidate SMF additionally or alternatively comprises means for selecting the candidate SMF from the filtered set of candidate SMFs as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the means for selecting the candidate SMF includes means for selecting the candidate SMF as an I-SMF for the DNAI based on a location of a user equipment associated with the PDU session.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for receiving a network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for receiving a network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment and the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports EDC functionality.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for storing the indication provided by the SMF. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for associating the indication with the selected I-SMF to generate mapping information.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for preventing a removal procedure of the inserted I-SMF based on the mapping information to enable the local offload management.

[0031] In another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided. In one or more embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: receive a network signal from an SMF, the network signal including: (i) a DNAI associated with an application configured for local offload in a communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local offload. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: based on the indication, determine a set of candidate SMFs that support local configuration of the DNAI and offload of traffic on the DNAI. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: select a candidate SMF from the set of candidate SMFs as an I-SMF for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMF is not the SMF associated with the network signal. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: store mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to cause transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing the PDU session to the I-SMF.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to cause transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing the PDU session to the SMF associated with the network signal.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to remove the SMF associated with the network signal from the set of candidate SMFs to generate a filtered set of candidate SMFs. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to select a candidate SMF from the filtered set of candidate SMFs as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to select a candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI based on a location of a user equipment associated with the PDU session.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to receive the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon that are configured to receive the network signal in response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment and a user equipment associated with the PDU session supports EDC functionality.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: store an indication provided by the SMF. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: associate the indication with the selected I-SMF to generate mapping information.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: prevent a removal procedure of the inserted I-SMF based on the mapping information to enable local offload management.

[0040] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions of a session management function that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: determining whether a DNAI associated with an application is allowed for local offload in a communication network. In one or more implementations, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: determining whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for a user equipment associated with a PDU session. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: determining whether an EDC function is supported by the user equipment associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: causing transmission of a network signal to an AMF of the communication network based on a determination that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment, wherein the network signal includes: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for locally configured offload of traffic on the DNAI.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, determining whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management includes determining whether the EDC function is supported by the user equipment.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: causing transmission of a second network signal to an I-SMF to cause configuration of an edge application server discovery function (EASDF) by the I-SMF.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving, from the AMF, a second network signal associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: causing transmission of a third network signal to the I-SMF based on the second network signal to cause selection of the EASDF via the I-SMF.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, causing transmission of the network signal includes: in response to receiving policy information from a policy control function (PCF) of the communication network, causing transmission of the network signal during establishment of the PDU session.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, causing transmission of the network signal includes: causing transmission of the network signal prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

[0046] In another example embodiment, a method is provided. In one or more embodiments, the method includes: at least one processor and at least one memory that stores instructions of a session management function that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: determining whether a DNAI associated with an application is allowed for local offload in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes: determining whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for a user equipment associated with a PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes: determining whether an EDC function is supported by the user equipment associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes: based on determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment, causing transmission of a network signal to an AMF of the communication network, wherein the network signal includes: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local configuration of traffic offload on the DNAI.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the method includes: causing transmission of a second network signal to the I-SMF to cause configuration of the EASDF by the I-SMF.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the method comprises receiving, from the AMF, a second network signal associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method comprises causing transmission of a third network signal to the I-SMF based on the second network signal to cause selection of the EASDF via the I-SMF.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, causing transmission of the network signal comprises causing transmission of the network signal during establishment of the PDU session in response to receiving policy information from a PCF of the communication network.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, causing transmission of the network signal comprises causing transmission of the network signal prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

[0051] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus provides means for determining whether a DNAI associated with an application is allowed for local offload in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for determining whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for a user equipment associated with a PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for determining whether the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports an EDC function. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for causing transmission of a network signal to an AMF of the communication network based on determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment, wherein the network signal comprises: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is locally configured for traffic offload on the DNAI.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for causing transmission of a second network signal to the I-SMF to cause configuration of the EASDF by the I-SMF.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for receiving, from the AMF, a second network signal associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus provides means for causing transmission of a third network signal to the I-SMF based on the second network signal to cause selection of the EASDF via the I-SMF.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the means for causing transmission of the network signal comprises means for causing transmission of the network signal in response to receiving the policy information from a PCF of the communication network during establishment of the PDU session.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, the means for causing transmission of the network signal comprises means for causing transmission of the network signal prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

[0056] In another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided. In one or more embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon configured to determine whether a DNAI associated with an application is allowed for local offload in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon configured to determine whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for a user equipment associated with a PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon configured to determine whether an EDC function is supported by a user equipment associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprises program instructions stored thereon configured to cause transmission of a network signal to an AMF of the communication network based on a determination that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment, wherein the network signal comprises: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for local configuration of traffic offload on the DNAI.

[0057] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium additionally or alternatively comprises program instructions stored thereon configured to cause transmission of a second network signal to an I-SMF to cause the I-SMF to configure the EASDF.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: receive, from the AMF, a second network signal associated with the PDU session. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: cause transmission of a third network signal to the I-SMF based on the second network signal to cause selection of the EASDF via the I-SMF.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: cause transmission of the network signal during establishment of the PDU session in response to receiving policy information from a PCF of the communication network.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to: cause transmission of the network signal prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

[0061] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions of a policy control function that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving, from a network exposure function (NEF), a request to store traffic influence (TI) information indicating one or more data network access identifiers (DNAIs) allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: updating the TI information stored in the network device based on the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: sending a notification to a policy control function (PCF) that subscribes to TI updates based on a change in the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information.

[0062] In another example embodiment, a method is provided. In one or more embodiments, the method includes receiving, from a NEF, a request to store TI information indicating one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes updating the TI information stored in the network device based on the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes sending a notification to a PCF that subscribes to TI updates based on a change in the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information.

[0063] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes means for receiving, from a NEF, a request to store TI information indicating one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus includes means for updating the TI information stored in the network device based on the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus includes means for sending a notification to a PCF that subscribes to TI updates based on a change in the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information.

[0064] In another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided. In one or more embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon configured to receive, from a NEF, a request to store TI information indicating one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon configured to update the TI information stored in the network device based on the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon configured to send a notification to a PCF that subscribes to TI updates based on a change in the one or more DNAIs allowed for local offload management of edge computing information.

[0065] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions of an application function that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform determining a request indicating one or more DNAIs associated with at least an application and indicating that the one or more DNAIs are allowed for local offload management of edge compute information in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus further includes instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform sending the request as part of a traffic influence (TI) request to a network exposure function (NEF) or as part of a policy request to a policy control function (PCF).

[0066] In another example embodiment, a method is provided. In one or more embodiments, the method includes determining a request indicating one or more DNAIs associated with at least an application and indicating that the one or more DNAIs are allowed for local offload management of edge compute information in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the method includes sending the request as part of a TI request to a NEF or as part of a policy request to a PCF.

[0067] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided. In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes means for determining a request indicating one or more DNAIs associated with at least an application and indicating that the one or more DNAIs are allowed for local offload management of edge compute information in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus includes means for sending the request as part of a TI request to a NEF or as part of a policy request to a PCF.

[0068] In another example embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided. In one or more embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to determine a request indicating one or more DNAIs associated with at least an application and indicating that the one or more DNAIs are allowed for local offload management of edge compute information in a communication network. In one or more embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon that are configured to send the request as part of a TI request to a NEF or as part of a policy request to a PCF. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0069] Having generally described certain example embodiments of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0070] Figure 1 An example communication network in which implementations in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure can be performed is depicted;

[0071] Figure 2 is another example communication network in which implementations in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure can be performed;

[0072] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an apparatus configured in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure;

[0073] Figure 4A illustrates an example signaling flow diagram in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure;

[0074] Figure 4B illustrates another example signaling flow diagram in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure;

[0075] Figure 5 illustrates another example signaling flow diagram in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure;

[0076] Figure 6 illustrates another example signaling flow diagram in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure;

[0077] Figure 7 illustrates a flow diagram in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure, the flow diagram illustrating operations performed such as by an apparatus of Figure 3 to enable selection of an intermediate session management function (I-SMF) of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information;

[0078] Figure 8 illustrates another flow diagram in accordance with one or more other example embodiments of the disclosure, the flow diagram illustrating operations performed such as by an apparatus of Figure 3 to trigger insertion of an I-SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information;

[0079] Figure 9 illustrates another flow diagram in accordance with one or more other example embodiments of the disclosure, the flow diagram illustrating operations performed such as by an apparatus of Figure 3 to enable an I-SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information; and

[0080] Figure 10 illustrates another flow diagram in accordance with one or more other example embodiments of the disclosure, the flow diagram illustrating operations performed such as by an apparatus of Figure 3The device performs operations that enable the I-SMF of the communication network to manage relevant information locally at the edge. Detailed Implementation

[0081] The following embodiments are exemplary. Although the specification may refer to embodiments as "a," "an," or "some" in various places in the text, this does not necessarily mean that each reference refers to the same embodiment, or that a particular feature applies only to a single embodiment. Individual features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, those skilled in the art can apply such features, structures, or characteristics in combination with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described. It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0082] For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases "at least one of A or B", "at least one of A and B" and "A and / or B" mean (A), (B) or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrases "A, B and / or C" mean (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C) or (A, B and C).

[0083] Some embodiments of this disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some, but not all, embodiments of this disclosure. In fact, various embodiments of this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the certain embodiments described herein; rather, these specific embodiments are provided so that this disclosure meets applicable legal requirements. The same reference numerals throughout refer to the same elements.

[0084] The above embodiments can be implemented in a communication network, such as in any of the following radio access technologies (RATs): Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM, 2G), GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), General Packet Radio Service (GRPS), Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS, 3G) based on Basic Wideband-Code Division Multiple Access (W-CDMA), High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced and Enhanced LTE (eLTE), 5G (also known as NR), or any future RAT, such as 6G. Furthermore, the communication within the communication network can utilize any suitable wireless communication techniques, including but not limited to: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), Time Division Duplex (TDD), Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), and / or Discrete Fourier Transform Spread OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM).

[0085] As used herein, the term “network device” or “network node” refers to a node in a communication network via which user equipment can access the network and / or which can control radio communications and manage radio resources within a cell. A network node or network device can be referred to as a base station (BS), an access point (AP), or an access node. Depending on the technology applied, the network device can be, for example, a Node B (NodeB or NB), an evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), an NR NB (also known as gNB), a remote radio unit (RRU), a radio head (RH), a remote radio head (RRH), a relay, an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, a low power node, a non-terrestrial network (NTN) or non-terrestrial network device (such as satellite network devices, low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and geosynchronous earth orbit (GEO) satellites), or an airplane network device.

[0086] Moreover, in a connection of a split radio access network (RAN), a network device can refer to a centralized unit (CU) of a base station and / or a distributed unit (DU) of a base station. The interface between a CU and a DU can be referred to as the FI interface in NR. In a split RAN architecture, node operations can be performed at least partly in a central / centralized unit CU (e.g., a server, host, or node) that operates coupled to a DU (e.g., a radio head / node). One CU can control one or more DUs, acting at least as a transmission / reception (Tx / Rx) node. In some embodiments, a DU can comprise, for example, a radio link control (RLC), medium access control (MAC) layer, and physical (PHY) layer, while a CU can comprise layers above the RLC layer, such as a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, radio resource control (RRC), and internet protocol (IP) layer. Other functional splits are possible. In practice, any processing task can be performed in the CU or DU, and the boundary for responsibility transfer between the CU and DU can depend on the implementation applied.

[0087] As used herein, the terms “data,” “content,” “information,” and similar

[0088] Moreover, as used herein, the term “circuitry” refers to (a) hardware-only circuitry (e.g., analogue and / or digital circuitry), (b) combinations of circuits and computer program product(s) comprising software and / or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more functions described herein, and (c) circuits that have no software or firmware but are executed by software or firmware, such as a combination of microphone and one or more processors or portions of processors referenced one or more memory (50). This definition of “circuitry” applies to all uses of this term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term “circuitry” also covers an implementation that has a combination of hardware and software modules, including one or more processors and / or portions thereof combined with software and / or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more functions described herein. As used herein, a “computer-readable storage medium” (which is a medium that stores physical computer-readable instructions, e.g., volatile or non-volatile memory devices) can be distinguished from a “computer-readable transmission medium” (which is a medium that stores computer-readable instructions electronically, e.g., electromagnetic signals).

[0089] As used herein, the term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. For example, a terminal device can be referred to as a communication device, a user equipment (UE), a subscriber station (SS), or a mobile station (MS). A terminal device can include a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a Voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone, a wireless local loop phone, a tablet, a wearable terminal device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable computer, a desktop computer, an image capture terminal device, such as a digital camera, a game terminal device, a music storage and playback appliance, a vehicular wireless terminal device, a USB dongle, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a watch or other wearable devices, a head-mounted display (HMD), a vehicle, a drone, medical devices and applications such as remote surgery, industrial devices and applications, such as robots and / or other wireless devices operating in an industrial and / or an automated processing chain environments, consumer electronics, devices operating on a business and / or industrial wireless network, etc.

[0090] As used herein, the term "resource" can refer to a radio resource in time, frequency, space, and / or code domain. Some examples of resources include, for example, a physical resource block (PRB), a radio frame, a subframe, a time slot, a sub-band, a frequency region, a subcarrier, a beam, etc. The terms "transmit" and / or "receive" can refer to wireless transmission and / or reception over a radio resource via a wireless propagation channel.

[0091] Communication networks, e.g., wireless communication networks, are employed throughout the world using a variety of technologies and using a variety of standards. There are generally accepted standards to facilitate some degree of uniformity between networks, some of which are defined by 3GPP (the Third Generation Partnership Project), such as third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and / or next generation (e.g., fifth generation or 5G) networks. 5G is the fifth generation technology standard for wideband cellular networks. These standards provide an architecture through which user equipment (UE) can communicate with networks and other UE devices.

[0092] Certain example embodiments will be explained in connection with example communication systems and related techniques to enable an intermediate Session Management Function (SMF) of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information. However, it should be understood that the scope of the claims is not limited to the particular type of communication networks, communication systems, and / or procedures disclosed. Example embodiments can be implemented in end devices (e.g., user equipment) or networks (e.g., communication networks) of communication systems using alternative procedures and operations. For example, although explained in the context of a wireless cellular system that utilizes 3GPP system elements, such as a 3GPP Next Generation Core Network, the disclosed embodiments can be directly applicable to various other types of communication systems. Moreover, while certain embodiments can be described in connection with a 5G communication system, other embodiments are applicable to and include other networks and network technologies, such as 3G, 4G, Long Term Evolution (LTE), 6G, etc., without limitation.

[0093] According to illustrative embodiments implemented in a 5G communication system environment, one or more 3GPP Technical Specifications (TSs) and Technical Reports (TRs) provide further explanation of user equipment and core network elements / entities / functions and / or operations performed by user equipment and core network elements / entities / functions, such as 3GPP TS 23.501, 3GPP TS 23.503, 3GPP TS 23.503, 3GPP TS 23.548, 3GPP TR 23.700-49, etc. Other 3GPP TS / TR documents provide other conventional details that will be implemented by those of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally or alternatively, embodiments implemented in a 5G communication system environment according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein can involve one or more core network elements / entities / functions and / or operations described in 3GPP Release 19 and / or 3GPP Technical Specification Group (TSG) Radio Access Network (RAN). However, while illustrative embodiments are well suited for implementation in connection with the above-described 5G 3GPP standards, alternative embodiments are not necessarily intended to be limited to any particular standard.

[0094] An SMF of a communication system can be configured to manage a protocol data unit (PDU) session and / or a session context associated with a user plane function (UPF). In certain communication systems, the SMF can receive a target data network access identifier (DNAI) from a policy control function (PCF). If the SMF determines that it cannot serve the target DNAI, the SMF can send the target DNAI to an access and mobility management function (AMF) to trigger an intermediate session management function (I-SMF) selection. However, even if the SMF can serve the target DNAI, the AMF is expected to trigger the I-SMF selection to enable the I-SMF to select / configure an edge application server discovery function (EASDF) (e.g., to offload the burden of the SMF that is to be a central SMF). Further, since the selected I-SMF is configured to serve the UE at a location associated with the target DNAI, the AMF is expected to select the I-SMF so that the I-SMF selects / configures an uplink classifier (UL CL) and / or a PDU session anchor (PSA) UPF to serve the UE. Further, when the AMF receives the target DNAI and queries a network repository function (NRF) to determine one or more SMFs that support the target DNAI, the AMF can select to set the target DNAI to the SMF of the AMF to trigger the I-SMF selection since the anchor SMF can serve the target DNAI. However, to prevent the AMF from selecting the anchor SMF again, the AMF is expected to know that the I-SMF should be selected for the target DNAI.

[0095] In certain communication systems, an edge DNS client (EDC) function is a 3GPP function in a UE that ensures that a domain name system (DNS) request from an application is sent to an IP address of a DNS server (e.g., EASDF / DNS resolver) received from an SMF. For example, the IP address can be received in an extended protocol configuration option (ePCO). The EDC function in the UE is a UE capability that can ensure the use of edge application server (EAS) discovery and re-discovery functions. A UE hosting the EDC function can indicate the capability of the UE in a protocol configuration option (PCO) in a PDU session establishment and / or PDU session modification procedure. Thus, the UE capability associated with the EDC function can be provided to an anchor SMF as a non-access stratum session management (NAS-SM) signal and / or a PCO message. To enable local offload management by I-SMF insertion, the anchor SMF can be an entity to trigger I-SMF selection based on the UE capability associated with the EDC function. However, for legacy communication systems, neither the AMF nor the I-SMF is provided with the PCO message. Thus, it is desirable to utilize a mechanism at the anchor SMF to determine the session management subscription data and / or the UE capability associated with the EDC function to trigger I-SMF insertion for local offload management.

[0096] In certain communication systems, the AMF can be responsible for determining the I-SMF to be added or removed at what time based on the information received from the NRF about the service area for the UE and / or the support DNAI(s) for one or more SMFs. If the AMF determines that the service area for the UE no longer requires the I-SMF (e.g., due to the service area of the SMF including the new UE location, etc.), the AMF can remove the I-SMF and directly interface with the SMF for the PDU session. Further, in certain communication systems, the I-SMF can be inserted for local offload management when the UE is within the anchor SMF service area and / or when the target DNAI is also supported by the anchor SMF. Thus, it is desirable to utilize mechanisms at the AMF to prevent the removal of the selected I-SMF when the UE is within the SMF service area.

[0097] Further, for local offload management, it is desirable to enable the granularity of the local offload policy and / or the local offload policy indication per DNAI. However, in traditional communication systems, it is not possible to achieve the granularity of the local offload policy and / or the local offload policy indication per DNAI by, for example, querying a unified data repository (UDR) per DNAI, as the DNAI would typically change frequently and updating the DNAI as part of the UE subscription data would result in an exponential growth of computational resources. Thus, it is also desirable to improve the determination and / or retrieval of the DNAI to enable local offload and / or management of data traffic.

[0098] In certain communication systems, the visited public land mobile network (VPLMN) specific offload policy can be integrated with the service level agreement between the VPLMN and the home public land mobile network (HPLMN). However, for local offload management associated with traditional communication systems, the local offload policy and / or the local offload information is not integrated with the service level agreement. Thus, it is desirable for an operator internal mechanism or application function (AF) request to indicate the local offload management policy and / or the local offload information. In particular, it is desirable to enable the PCF to determine the local offload management policy and / or the local offload information.

[0099] Accordingly, described herein are apparatuses, methods, and computer program products for enabling an intermediate SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information to address some or all of the above-described limitations of current communication networks and / or current network protocols.

[0100] In some embodiments, when an I-SMF is inserted into a PDU session (e.g., during PDU session establishment or due to UE mobility), the I-SMF can provide the SMF with a list of DNAIs supported by the I-SMF. Based on the DNAI list information received from the I-SMF, the SMF can provide the PDU session with DNAI(s) of interest for local traffic steering. Additionally or alternatively, the SMF can also provide a local offload policy received from the PCF indicating IP range(s) and / or fully qualified domain name(s) (FQDNs) of a communication network (e.g., a data network) that are allowed to be routed to a local part of the communication network by the I-SMF (e.g., immediately or upon receipt of new or updated or removed policy and charging control (PCC) rule(s)). In some embodiments, the DNAI(s) of interest can be derived from the PCC rules. In some embodiments, the local offload policy received from the PCF can be sent to the I-SMF via the SMF.

[0101] In some embodiments, the SMF can provide the I-SMF with DNAI(s) of interest for a PDU session (e.g., a PDU session for local traffic steering). If PCC rules for data traffic offloaded via an uplink classifier and branching point (UL CL / BP) change due to an AF request, the SMF can provide the I-SMF with updated N4 interface information. If the PCC rules change a local offload policy, the SMF can provide the I-SMF with an updated local offload policy.

[0102] In some embodiments, a local offload policy indication can be provided. For example, the SMF can provide a local offload policy indication to the PCF when local offload management is allowed. In some embodiments, when local offload management of edge computing is supported for non-roaming PDU sessions, the local offload policy can include attributes for offloading data traffic to a local part of a communication network. In some embodiments, IP range(s) can indicate one or more IPv4 / IPv6 address ranges that are allowed to be offloaded to a local part of a communication network for local offload management. In some embodiments, FQDN(s) can indicate one or more FQDNs or FQDN ranges that are allowed to be offloaded to a local part of a communication network for local offload management.

[0103] In some embodiments, the SMF can map the DNAIs provided by the PCF to UE session management subscription data per DNN / S-NSSAI. In some embodiments, if local offload management is allowed for the UE per DNAI and the UE supports EDC functionality, the SMF can send a local offload management allowed indication to the AMF. In some embodiments, the SMF can provide an indication to the selected I-SMF to trigger EASDF selection and configuration.

[0104] In some embodiments, the AMF can receive a local offload management allowed indication for a target / list of DNAIs. In some embodiments, the AMF can filter out the anchor SMF if the I-SMF is inserted for local offload management. In some embodiments, the AMF can combine the inserted I-SMF and the reason / cause of insertion to prevent I-SMF removal in embodiments where the AMF identifies that the DNAI can be served by the SMF.

[0105] In some embodiments, the PCF can receive potential locations of applications for local offload management from an AF residing at an operation, administration, and management (OAM) interface, and / or can provide the potential locations of applications to the SMF. In some embodiments, the PCF can receive a local offload management policy from the OAM. In some embodiments, the UDR can store and / or update information associated with the potential locations of applications for local offload management. In some embodiments, the OAM can determine the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy. In some embodiments, the OAM can provide the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy to the PCF.

[0106] In some embodiments, the SMF can include an indication (e.g., a flag, a bit, etc.) that indicates that the DNAI is allowed for local offload, and the UE capability supports the EDC function. The indication can be sent if the SMF identifies that the subscription data of the UE (e.g., subscription data for data network name (DNN) and single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI)) and / or the UE capability to support the EDC function is satisfied. In some embodiments, the SMF can map the subscription data on the DNN / S-NSSAI to a parameter associated with the proposed location of applications for local offload management, which represents a subset of DNAIs allowed for local offload management. Thus, the I-SMF selection can be triggered without requiring the SMF to subscribe to the UE mobility event. Further, the I-SMF selection can be triggered without the need for the AMF to configure the corresponding DNAI area for local offload management.

[0107] In some embodiments, the AMF can determine whether the SMF supports the DNAI, and the SMF has the capability to support the local offload management and / or can filter out the anchor SMF that sends the target DNAI. In some embodiments, the AMF can be configured with a mechanism to prevent the I-SMF removal if the I-SMF is inserted based on the local offload management indication received from the SMF when the UE is within the SMF service area.

[0108] In some embodiments, the I-SMF can be used to select the EASDF. For example, the AMF can send an indication that EASDF selection and configuration is allowed. Alternatively, when the selected I-SMF provides a list of supported DNAI(s), the SMF can send an indication (e.g., an indication that EASDF selection and configuration is allowed) to the I-SMF in the response. Further, the SMF can respond to the indication (e.g., an indication that EASDF selection and configuration is allowed) by sending a different indication to select and configure the EASDF. Alternatively, when the SMF provides a local offload policy to the selected I-SMF, the SMF can send an indication (e.g., an indication that EASDF selection and configuration is allowed) to the I-SMF.

[0109] In some embodiments, enhancements for EAS (re)discovery and UPF (re)selection can be provided to reduce the impact on the communication network (e.g., reduce the impact on network functions of the 5G network). For example, an I-SMF based approach can be provided to reduce the impact on the communication network (e.g., reduce the impact on network functions of the 5G network). In some embodiments, I-SMF selection can be performed by the AMF. In some embodiments, the I-SMF selection mechanism can be enhanced to support I-SMFs for local offload management (e.g., I-SMF selection for local offload management can be based on subscription data).

[0110] In some embodiments, EASDF configuration and / or DNS message handling can be performed by the I-SMF. In some embodiments, EASDF discovery and selection can be performed by the I-SMF. In some embodiments, the I-SMF can retrieve electronic data interchange (EDI) from the NEF to configure the EASDF. In some embodiments, EDI management in the I-SMF can be provided. In some embodiments, the I-SMF can be pre-configured with EAS deployment information. In some embodiments, the I-SMF can be configured with a local offload policy and / or can receive a local offload policy from the PCF via the SMF. In some embodiments, the local offload policy can indicate IP range(s) and / or FQDN(s) that are allowed to be routed to a local part of the communication network. In some embodiments, the local offload policy can select local UPF(s). In some embodiments, the SMF can forward AF-provided traffic influence information to the I-SMF.

[0111] In some embodiments, I-SMF selection can trigger the AMF to perform selection of an I-SMF for local offload management when the anchor SMF supports the target DNAI and / or the UE is within the SMF service area. Based on the UE subscription data and / or in response to a NRF query for supported DNAI and service area, the AMF can be configured to not subsequently select the anchor SMF.

[0112] In some embodiments, the EASDF selection indication can trigger the I-SMF to select an EASDF. In some embodiments, the SMF can check whether the UE has provided an Edge DNS Client (EDC) function as part of a PCO. The SMF can then provide an indication to the I-SMF to select an EASDF. The selected EASDF provided by the I-SMF can be provided to the SMF so that the SMF can send the EASDF information to the UE via the PCO.

[0113] In some embodiments, I-SMF removal can be provided when FQDN / IP ranges are allowed to be updated (e.g., when local offload policies are updated). In such embodiments, the I-SMF can receive an update from the PCF. In some embodiments, the SMF can be enabled to trigger I-SMF removal. In some embodiments, the I-SMF local offload information can indicate how and / or when to inform the I-SMF(s) of the local offload information.

[0114] Accordingly, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are described that provide improved performance, accuracy, and / or functionality of network entities, network functions, and / or user equipment associated with a network, such as a communication network, a positioning network, or another type of network. For example, by enabling an I-SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information disclosed herein, performance, accuracy, and / or functionality of network entities, network functions, and / or user equipment associated with a network, such as a communication network, can be improved as compared to conventional network entities, system functions, and / or user equipment. In various embodiments, the number of computing resources and / or processing tasks used for user equipment to access a communication network and / or use network functions of the communication network (e.g., AMF, SMF, etc.) can be reduced. Network efficiency and / or network connectivity can also be improved. For example, overall network signaling can be reduced to provide improved resiliency, security, network latency, and / or network speed provided by the communication network. Moreover, by enabling an I-SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information disclosed herein, signaling load can be minimized and / or bandwidth dedicated to network signaling, establishing PDU sessions, and / or other such network activities can be reduced.

[0115] Reference is now made to Figure 1FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication network 100, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication network 100 (also referred to as a wireless communication network, cellular network, or mobile network) is a type of network in which at least one link is wireless, and provides voice and / or data services to a plurality of devices. The communication network 100 can be a 5G network. Additionally or alternatively, at least portions of the communication network can be a 3G network, a 4G network, an LTE network, a 6G network, and / or another type of network.

[0116] Figure 1 The communication network 100 is depicted in which implementations in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure can be performed. Figure 1 The depiction of the communication network 100 in the present disclosure is not intended to limit or otherwise restrict the example embodiments described and contemplated herein to any particular element or system configuration, and is not intended to exclude any alternatives that can be Figure 1 The communication network 100 disclosed herein and in which is merely provided to offer an example basis and context to facilitate some of the features, aspects, and uses of the methods, apparatus, and computer program products disclosed and contemplated herein. It will be understood that while Figure 1 Many of the aspects and components presented in the present disclosure are shown as discrete, individual elements, but other configurations can be used in conjunction with the methods, apparatus, and computer programs described herein, including configurations that combine, omit, and / or add aspects and / or components.

[0117] The communication network 100 is illustrated as providing communication services to UEs 110. The UEs 110 can be used for voice services, data services, machine-to-machine (M2M) or machine-type communications (MTC) services, Internet of Things (IoT) services, and / or other services. While the UEs 110 can be configured in a variety of different ways, the UEs 110 can each embody a mobile terminal such as a mobile telephone, a smartphone, a pager, a mobile television, a gaming device, a laptop computer, a computer with a mobile broadband adapter, a camera, a tablet, a portable digital assistant (PDA), a communication device, a pad, a wearable device, a headset, a touch surface, a video recorder, an audio / video player, a radio, an electronic book, a positioning device (e.g., a Global Positioning System (GPS) device), a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, or any combination of the above devices, as well as other types of voice and text and multi-modal communication systems.

[0118] In the context of a 5G network, the communication network 100 can include a series of connected network devices and dedicated hardware distributed throughout a service area, state, province, city, or country, as well as one or more network entities that can be stored at and / or hosted by the one or more connected network devices or dedicated hardware. In some embodiments, the UE 110 can connect to a radio access network (RAN) 120, which can then relay communications between the UE 110 and a core network 130. In some embodiments, the UE 110 can communicate with the RAN 120, which can act as a relay between the UE 110 and other components or services of the core network 130. For example, in some embodiments, the UE 110 can communicate with the RAN 120, which can communicate with an AMF and / or other network functions associated with the core network 130.

[0119] In one or more embodiments, the RAN 120 can communicate with the UE 110 over a radio interface. The RAN 120 can support next generation RAN (NG-RAN) access, evolved UMTS terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN) access, wireless local area network (WLAN) access, fixed access, satellite radio access, new radio access technology (RAT), etc. To provide communications between the UE 110 and the core network 130, the RAN 120 includes one or more network nodes 124 and one or more gateway network nodes 126. In various embodiments, the one or more network nodes 124 can be dispersed throughout a geographic region. A respective network node 124 can include an entity that communicates with the one or more UEs 110 via one or more communication channels using radio communication technology. For example, a respective network node 124 can be configured as a base station. In various embodiments, the one or more communication channels can be associated with a licensed spectrum. The respective network node 124 can also interface with the core network 130 for the one or more UEs 110. In one or more embodiments, the respective network nodes 124 can interface the one or more UEs 110 with the core network 130 via the respective gateway network nodes 126 or a gateway network node 126 employed between two or more network nodes 124.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, the one or more network nodes 124 can be configured as one or more RAN nodes, such as one or more NG-RAN nodes or one or more home NG-RAN nodes. In another embodiment, the one or more network nodes 124 can be configured as one or more femto base stations, such as one or more femto 5G base stations or one or more home gNBs.

[0121] The one or more gateway network nodes 126 can be one or more RAN node gateways, such as one or more NG-RAN node gateways or one or more home NG-RAN node gateways. In another embodiment, the one or more gateway network nodes 126 can be configured as one or more femto gateways, such as one or more femto 5G gateways or one or more home gNB gateways.

[0122] In certain embodiments, the network nodes 124 in the NG-RAN can be referred to as gNodeBs (NR base stations) and / or NgeNodeBs (LTE base stations that support a 5G core network). In certain embodiments, the network nodes 124 are one or more wireless access points (WAPs) to enable the UEs 110 to connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless (radio) connection. For example, in certain embodiments, the network nodes 124 can employ a radio communication technology to communicate with the UEs 110 on an unlicensed spectrum and / or provide the UEs 110 with access to the core network 130. One example of a WAP is a Wi-Fi access point that operates on a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz radio band. Thus, in certain embodiments, the term “network node” can refer to an eNodeB, a gNodeB, an ng-eNodeB, a WAP, and the like.

[0123] In various embodiments, the UEs 110 can attach to a cell of the RAN 120 to access the core network 130. Thus, the RAN 120 can represent a radio interface between the UEs 110 and the core network 130. The core network 130 can be a part of the communication network 100 that provides various services to the UEs 110 connected by the RAN 120. One example of the core network 130 is a 5G core (5GC) network in compliance with 3GPP. Another example of the core network 130 is an evolved packet core (EPC) network in compliance with 3GPP.

[0124] The core network 130 includes network elements 132. The network elements 132 can include servers, devices, apparatuses, or equipment (including hardware) that provide services for the UEs 110. The network elements 132 can include one or more network functions. For example, in a 5G network, the network elements 132 can include: an application function (AF), an access and mobility management function (AMF), a location management function (LMF), a session management function (SMF), a user plane function (UPF), a PDU session anchor (PSA), a policy control function (PCF), a unified data management (UDM), an authentication server function (AUSF), a data network (DN) (e.g., operator services, Internet access, or third-party services), an unstructured data storage function (UDSF), a network exposure function (NEF), a network repository function (NRF), a network slice selection function (NSSF), a session management function (SMC), a unified data repository (UDR), a user plane function (UPF), a UE radio capability management function (UCMF), a network data analytics function (NWDAF), a charging function (CHF), and the like. Additionally or alternatively, network elements 132 in an EPC network can include a mobility management entity (MME), a serving gateway (S-GW), a packet data network gateway (P-GW), and the like.

[0125] In some embodiments, the UEs 110 can include single-mode or dual-mode devices such that the UEs 110 can connect to the RAN 120. In some embodiments, the RAN 120 can be configured to implement one or more radio access technologies (RATs), such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service (UMTS), LTE, or 5G NR, among others, which can be used to connect the UEs 110 to the core network 130. In some embodiments, the RAN 120 can include or be implemented using chips (such as silicon chips) in respective UEs 110, which can be paired or otherwise recognized by similar chips in the core network 130, such that the RAN 120 can establish connections or lines of communication between respective UEs 110 and the core network 130 by identifying and pairing chips within respective UEs 110 with chips within the core network 130.

[0126] In some embodiments, the communication network 100 or components thereof can be configured to communicate with communication devices (e.g., UEs 110), and the like, over multiple different frequency bands, such as FR1 (sub-6 GHz), FR2 (millimeter wave), other suitable frequency bands, sub-bands thereof, and the like. In some embodiments, the communication network 100 can include or employ massive multiple-input multiple-output (massive MIMO) antennas. In some embodiments, the communication network 100 can include multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) antennas. In some embodiments, the communication network 100 can employ edge computing, whereby computing servers are closer in communication, physical, computational, and / or temporal proximity to the communication devices (e.g., UEs 110) to reduce latency and data traffic congestion. In some embodiments, the communication network 100 can employ other technologies, devices, or techniques, such as small cells, low-power RANs, radio wave beamforming, WIFI cellular convergence, non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), channel coding, and the like.

[0127] Figure 2 FIG. illustrates an example communication network 200, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication network 200 can correspond to embodiments of at least portions of the communication network 100. The communication network 200 can illustrate an example architecture, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As Figure 2 As shown, the communication network 200 includes the UE 110, the RAN 120, and the core network 130. The UE 110 can be communicatively coupled to the RAN 120. In certain embodiments, the RAN 120 can include the UE 110. The RAN 120 can also be communicatively coupled to and / or interface with the core network 130. As Figure 2 As shown, the core network 130 includes at least the AMF 202, the I-SMF 204, and the SMF 206.

[0128] In some embodiments, UE 110 can connect to RAN 120, which can then relay communications between UE 110 and core network 130. In some embodiments, UE 110 can communicate with RAN 120, which can act as a relay between UE 110 and other components or services of core network 130. For example, in some embodiments, UE 110 can communicate with RAN 120, which can communicate with AMF 202 of core network 130. In other embodiments, UE 110 can communicate directly with AMF 202. AMF 202 can communicate with, at least, I-SMF 204 and / or SMF 206. SMF 206 can be a network entity that manages communications between UE 110 and core network 130. In some embodiments, SMF 206 can establish, modify, and / or release a user session and / or a PDU session associated with UE 110. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, SMF 206 can manage IP addresses for a user session and / or a PDU session. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, SMF 206 can manage network slices associated with a user session and / or a PDU session. I-SMF 204 can be a network entity that manages communications between UE 110 and core network 130 when UE 110 moves between different SMF service areas of communication network 100 and / or communication network 200. In some embodiments, I-SMF 204 can select a UPF for a PDU session to provide local access to a data network (e.g., communication network 100 and / or communication network 200). In some embodiments, I-SMF 204 can establish, modify, and / or release a user session and / or a PDU session associated with UE 110 when UE 110 moves between different SMF service areas of communication network 100 and / or communication network 200. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, I-SMF 204 can manage IP addresses for a user session and / or a PDU session when UE 110 moves between different SMF service areas of communication network 100 and / or communication network 200. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, I-SMF 204 can manage network slices associated with a user session and / or a PDU session when UE 110 moves between different SMF service areas of communication network 100 and / or communication network 200. In some embodiments, I-SMF 204 can be enabled to locally manage edge compute related information associated with communication network 100 and / or communication network 200. In some embodiments, AMF 202 can also communicate with one or more other network functions (NFs) of core network 130.

[0129] In one or more embodiments, this can be accomplished by employing, for example, a Figure 3The illustrated apparatus 10, I-SMF (e.g., I-SMF 204) is enabled to locally manage edge computing related information associated with the communication network 100 and / or the communication network 200. The apparatus 10 can be implemented by and / or incorporated into one or more network nodes (e.g., network node 124), one or more gateway network nodes (e.g., gateway network node 126), one or more UEs (e.g., UE 110), or any other device discussed, such as another device incorporated with or otherwise associated with the RAN 120 and / or the core network 130. Alternatively, the apparatus 10 can be embodied by another device external to such a device. For example, the apparatus can be implemented by a computing device, such as a personal computer, computer workstation, server, etc., or embodied by any of a variety of mobile computing devices, such as a mobile terminal including but not limited to a smart phone, tablet computer, etc. Figure 1 or Figure 2 any other device discussed. Alternatively, the apparatus 10 can be embodied by another device external to such a device. For example, the apparatus can be implemented by a computing device, such as a personal computer, computer workstation, server, etc., or embodied by any of a variety of mobile computing devices, such as a mobile terminal including but not limited to a smart phone, tablet computer, etc.

[0130] Regardless of the manner in which the apparatus 10 is embodied, the apparatus 10 includes, for example, at least one processor 12 and at least one memory 14 storing instructions 15 that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus 10 to perform at least the methods disclosed herein and any embodiments thereof. In one example, the at least one memory and instructions (e.g., computer program code, software) are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus 10 to perform one or more methods disclosed herein and any embodiments thereof.

[0131] The processor 12 can comprise circuitry, or be structured as one or more circuitries, configured to perform the various stages of the methods according to the example embodiments described herein. As used in this application, the term “circuitry” can refer to one or more or all of: (a) sole hardware circuit implementation, such as provided by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a digital signal processor (DSP), and (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as: (i) combinations of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, as applicable, and (ii) portions of (multiple) hardware processors (including digital signal processors), software, and memory and / or storage that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a user equipment, to perform various functions described herein, and (c) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as a microprocessor or a portion of a microprocessor, that require software (e.g., firmware) to be operable, but when not required, the software can not be present. This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers implementations including, but not limited to hardware-only circuit implementations or processor-only circuit implementations that use software, e.g., a processor die (or multiple processor dies) that is a hardware processor including a processor core and software, or a portion of a hardware processor including a processor core and software. For example, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuitry also covers a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0132] The memory 14 can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology. The memory can comprise a database for storing data. The memory 14 can be at least partially external to the apparatus 10, but accessible by the apparatus 10. The instructions 15 can be included in a computer-readable medium or non-transitory computer-readable medium. The term non-transitory, as used herein with respect, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, as opposed to a signal), and not a limitation of data storage permanence (e.g., random access memory (RAM) versus read only memory (ROM)).

[0133] In some examples, the apparatus 10 is a terminal device, such as the UE 110. As another example, the apparatus is comprised in such a terminal device, e.g. as a chipset configured to control the terminal device. The apparatus 10 can be caused or configured to perform at least Figure 7 , Figure 8 and / or the method of any one or more of the above embodiments.

[0134] As another example, the apparatus 10 is a network node, e.g. the network node 120. As another example, the apparatus is comprised in such a network node, e.g. as a chipset configured to control the network node. The apparatus 10 can be caused or configured to perform at least Figure Xa network node. In another embodiment, the apparatus is comprised in such a network node, e.g. as a chipset configured to control the network node. The apparatus 10 can be caused to or configured to perform at least the method of Figure Z and / or any one or more of the embodiments described.

[0135] The apparatus can comprise one or more entities of any protocol layer, such as a MAC entity, RRC entity, RLC entity, PDCP entity, or PHY entity. In some embodiments, the entity is configured to perform at least the method of Figure 7 , Figure 8 and / or the method of any one or more of the above embodiments.

[0136] The apparatus 10 comprises a radio interface 16. The radio interface 16 can provide the apparatus 10 with communication capability. The radio interface 16 can comprise a receiver configured to receive information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The radio interface 16 can comprise a transmitter configured to transmit information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The receiver can comprise more than one receiver. The transmitter can comprise more than one transmitter. The radio interface 16 can comprise a transceiver configured to receive and transmit information according to at least one cellular or non-cellular standard. The transceiver can comprise more than one transceiver.

[0137] The apparatus 10 can comprise a user interface 18, including at least one of, e.g., a keypad, a microphone, a touch display, a display, a speaker, etc. The user interface 18 can be used for control by a user of the apparatus. The user interface 18 can be external to the apparatus 10. For example, the apparatus 10 can be connected to another device, such as a computer, via a wireless or wired connection, and the apparatus 10 is controlled by a user via the computer.

[0138] In one embodiment, at least some of the processes described herein can be performed by an apparatus comprising means for performing at least some of the processes described above. The means for performing the method steps disclosed herein can comprise software and / or hardware components of the apparatus 10. For example, the at least one processor 12, the memory 14, and the computer program code form means for performing one or more of the methods disclosed herein, and any embodiments thereof. As used herein, the term “means” should be interpreted to cover a single element, or a combination of elements, either singularly or in combination. Accordingly, the term “means for [performing A, B, C]” should be interpreted as covering an apparatus in which only one means is used to perform A, B, and C, or in which there are separate means to perform A, B, and C, or partially or wholly overlapping means to perform A, B, C. Furthermore, the terms “means for performing A, means for performing B, means for performing C” should be interpreted as covering an apparatus in which only one means is used to perform A, B, and C, or in which there are separate means to perform A, B, and C, or partially or wholly overlapping means to perform A, B, C.

[0139] Figure 4A FIGURE 13 illustrates example transmissions between an AMF 202, an I-SMF 204, a SMF 206, a UPF 408, a PSA 410, an old I-SMF 412, a PCF 414, and / or a UDR / UDM 416 of a communication network, according to one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, the AMF 202, the I-SMF 204, the SMF 206, the UPF 408, the PSA 410, the old I-SMF 412, the PCF 414, and / or the UDR / UDM 416 can correspond to a network function, a network element (e.g., the network elements 132), a core network entity (e.g., one or more portions of the core network 130), and / or one or more other portions of a communication network. The following example transmissions provide foreseen steps, network signals, or messaging to enable the I-SMF 104 to locally manage edge compute related information for a communication network. In one or more embodiments, the example transmissions illustrate SMF triggered I-SMF selection for local offloading and / or management of data traffic in a communication network.

[0140] In some embodiments, at 1, the PCF 414 can receive potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or a local offload management policy. In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can receive the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy from the UDR / UDM 416. In some embodiments, the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy can be determined by an AF residing at an OAM. In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can receive the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy in response to a determination that a UE (e.g., the UE 110) has requested establishment of a connection with the AMF 202 and / or another network entity.

[0141] In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can pre-determine the local offload management policy or information about potential locations for applications for local offload management. In some embodiments, the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy can be pre-configured at the PCF 414. In some embodiments, the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy can be provided by the AF 504, where the target identifier is the UE. Thus, the potential locations for applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy can be determined prior to the UE performing a PDU session establishment procedure.

[0142] In some embodiments, at 2, the PCF 414 can provide potential locations for applications for local offload management to the SMF 206. In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can utilize a network signal (e.g., Npcf_SMPolicyControl_Create / Update service) to provide policy and charging control (PCC) rule(s) including potential locations for applications for local offload management containing a list of DNAI(s) and / or local offload management policy. In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can utilize a network signal (e.g., Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify) to indicate the list of DNAI(s). The list of DNAI(s) can include one or more target DNAI(s) associated with at least an application configured for local offload and management of data traffic in a communication network. In some embodiments, the PCF 414 can translate the local offload management policy to potential locations for applications for local offload management such that the SMF 206 can take action to remove the old I-SMF 412 when the updated information indicates that no local offload and handling by the I-SMF 412 is needed. In some embodiments, the potential locations for applications for local offload management can be represented by the list of DNAI(s). Further, the potential locations for applications for local offload management can be a subset of potential locations for applications. In some embodiments, the potential locations for applications for local offload management can be represented by a DNN and / or S-NSSAI.

[0143] In some embodiments, at 3, an indication that local offload management is allowed can be provided to the SMF 206. In some embodiments, the indication that local offload management is allowed can be provided by the UDR / UDM 416. In some embodiments, the SMF 206 analyzes the UE SM subscription data to determine whether local offload management is allowed per DNN / S-NSSAI.

[0144] In some embodiments, at 4a, the SMF 206 can identify a list of DNAI(s) allowed for local offload management. In some embodiments, the SMF 206 maps DNN / S-NSSAI allowed for local offload management to potential locations for applications for local offload management. In some embodiments, the mapping enables the SMF 206 to identify whether a target / list of DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload management.

[0145] In some embodiments, at 4b, the SMF 206 can determine whether local offload management for the list of DNAI(s) is allowed and UE capability to support EDC function. In some embodiments, the SMF 206 determines whether the UE capability supports the EDC function. In some embodiments, if the SMF 206 determines that the local offload management is allowed and the UE supports the EDC function, the SMF 206 can generate a network signal with an indication that the target DNAI or the list of DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload management.

[0146] In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can invoke a network signal (e.g., Nsmf_PDUSession_SMContextStatusNotify) to trigger I-SMF insertion. In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can invoke the network signal before reserving and / or allocating radio access network (RAN) resources in a UE PDU session establishment procedure (e.g., before invoking a Namf_Communication_N1N2MessageTransfer message to the AMF 202). In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can invoke the network signal to the AMF 202 after a UE PDU session establishment procedure in response to PCC rule update provided by the PCF 414.

[0147] In some embodiments, at 5, the AMF 202 can receive a network signal with an indication that the target DNAI or the list of DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload management. In some embodiments, the network signal with the indication that the target DNAI or the list of DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload management can be sent by the SMF 206. In some embodiments, if the SMF 206 determines at 4b that the UE is allowed for local offload management and supports the EDC function, the SMF 206 sends the local offload allowed indication for the target / list of DNAI(s) to the AMF 202. Thus, a case where the SMF 206 subscribes to the AMF 202 to trigger further I-SMF insertion procedures for local offload management at UE mobility events can be avoided. Furthermore, the computing resources used by the SMF 206 can be reduced. In some embodiments, the network signal received by the AMF 202 can include a target DNAI or a list of DNAI(s) associated with at least an application configured for local offload and management of data traffic in a communication network. Furthermore, the network signal received by the AMF 202 can include an indication that the DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload and management of data traffic. In some embodiments, the network signal received by the AMF 202 can include only an indication that the DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload and management of data traffic.

[0148] In some embodiments, the AMF 202 can select the I-SMF at 6. For example, the AMF 202 can select the I-SMF 204 based on an indication indicating that the target DNAI or the list of DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload management. In some embodiments, the AMF 202 queries the NRF and determines the SMFs supporting the DNAI(s) and the local configuration of traffic offloaded on the DNAI(s). Since the SMF 206 (e.g., anchor SMF) sending the local offload management allowed indication can also support the DNAI(s) allowed for local offload management and can support the local configuration of traffic offloaded on the DNAI(s), the AMF 202 can filter out the SMF 206. In some embodiments, for I-SMF removal, the AMF 202 can be configured to prevent removal of the inserted I-SMF for local offload management when the UE is located within the I-SMF and SMF service areas and both the I-SMF and SMF support the DNAI. Accordingly, the AMF 202 can associate the I-SMF insertion cause / citation and the inserted I-SMF ID with the anchor SMF ID for the SMF 206. In some embodiments, the AMF 202 can determine a set of candidate SMFs supporting the DNAI(s) and the local configuration of traffic offloaded on the DNAI(s) based on an indication indicating that the DNAI(s) is allowed for local offload and management of data traffic. Further, the AMF 202 can remove the SMF 206 associated with the network signal from the set of candidate SMFs to generate a filtered set of candidate SMFs. In some embodiments, the AMF 202 can select a candidate SMF from the filtered set of candidate SMFs as the I-SMF (e.g., I-SMF 204) for the DNAI(s).

[0149] In some embodiments, at 7a, the AMF 202 can send the network signal associated with the PDU session to the I-SMF 204. In other embodiments, at 7b, the AMF 202 can send the network signal associated with the PDU session to the SMF 206 regarding I-SMF removal. In some embodiments, the AMF 202 can send the local offload management allowed indication sent by the SMF 206 (e.g., anchor SMF) to the selected I-SMF 204. The indication can also indicate the EASDF selection and configuration requirements to the selected I-SMF 204.

[0150] In some embodiments, at 8a, the I-SMF 204 can send a request to the SMF 206 to create / update the PDU session.

[0151] In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can retrieve the local offload management policy from the PCF 414 at 8b. For example, the SMF 206 can retrieve the local offload management policy in response to receiving the request for creating / updating the PDU session from the I-SMF 204.

[0152] In some embodiments, at 8c, the SMF 206 can send a response for creating / updating the PDU session and an indication to select and / or configure the EASDF. For example, the SMF 206 can send the response to the I-SMF 204. Thus, the SMF 206 can provide the indication to trigger the EASDF selection and / or configuration at the selected I-SMF 204.

[0153] In some embodiments, at 9, the I-SMF 204 can perform the EASDF selection and / or configuration. For example, the I-SMF 204 can perform the EASDF selection and / or configuration in response to receiving the response for creating / updating the PDU session and the indication to select and / or configure the EASDF. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can indicate the selected EASDF information to the SMF 206, which includes the EASDF IP address and the DNS security information. In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can include the selected EASDF information in the PCO towards the UE (e.g., the UE 110). In some embodiments, based on the EASDF selection and / or configuration, an I-SMF insertion, an I-SMF modification, or an I-SMF removal associated with the I-SMF 204 can be provided. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 sends an indication to the old I-SMF 412 or the SMF 206 about the I-SMF insertion, the I-SMF modification, or the I-SMF removal associated with the I-SMF 104. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can select a UPF based on the target DNAI. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can select a PDU session anchor based on the target DNAI.

[0154] Figure 4BFIGURE 1 illustrates an example transmission between a UE 110, a RAN 120, an AMF 202, an I-SMF 204, an SMF 206, a UPF 408, a PSA 410, a PCF 414, and / or a UDR / UDM 416 of a communication network, in accordance with one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, the RAN 120, the AMF 202, the I-SMF 204, the SMF 206, the UPF 408, the PSA 410, the PCF 414, and / or the UDR / UDM 416 can correspond to a network function, a network element (e.g., the network elements 132), a core network entity (e.g., one or more portions of the core network 130), and / or one or more other portions of the communication network. The following example transmission provides foreseen steps, network signals, or messaging to enable the I-SMF 204 to locally manage edge compute related information for the communication network. In one or more embodiments, the example transmission illustrates triggering I-SMF insertion for local offload management. In some embodiments, Figure 4B The example transmission provides a PDU session establishment procedure for a non-roaming scenario in a communication network. In some implementations, a UE requested PDU session establishment can be provided. In some embodiments, PDU session authentication / authorization can be provided.

[0155] In some embodiments, if the session management subscription data is not available at the SMF 206, the SMF 206 retrieves the session management subscription data from the UDM 416 at 1. The session management subscription data can include a per-DNN / S-NSSAI local offload management allowed indication. In some embodiments, as part of the session management policy association establishment / modification, the PCF 414 can provide PCC rules. The PCC rules can indicate a target DNAI or a list of DNAIs for local offload management.

[0156] At 2, based on the session management subscription data and the PCC rules, the SMF 206 can determine whether the I-SMF 204 for local offload management should be triggered based on whether the UE 110 has a local offload management allowed indication in the session management subscription data, whether the UE 110 capability supports the EDC function described in clause 5.2, and / or whether offloading edge compute related information management is needed. Based on whether the UE 110 has a local offload management allowed indication in the session management subscription data, whether the UE 110 capability supports the EDC function described in clause 5.2, and / or whether offloading edge compute related information management is needed, the SMF 206 can determine that the I-SMF insertion for local offload management needs to be triggered.

[0157] In some embodiments, the SMF 206 can invoke the Nsmf_PDUSession_SMContextStatusNotify service with target DNAI information including the target DNAI and the local offload management allowed indication. This is to trigger the AMF to select a suitable I-SMF for the PDU session at 3. The target DNAI and the local offload management allowed indication can be used to select an I-SMF 204 that supports local offload management and controls the UPF 408 connected to the target DNAI for offloading edge compute related information management. In some embodiments, during SMF selection, the AMF 202 can query the NRF to determine a set of SMFs that can serve the target DNAI, the UE location, and support local offload management.

[0158] In some embodiments, at 4, the AMF 202 sends the Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext request including the local offload management allowed indication. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can retrieve the EAS deployment information from the NEF before performing UPF selection. In some embodiments, based on the local offload allowed indication, the selected I-SMF 204 can proceed with EAS DF selection at 5. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can retrieve the EAS DF information including the EAS DF IP address and DNS security information.

[0159] In some embodiments, at 6, the I-SMF 204 can send the Nsmf_PDUSession Create request to the SMF 206. The request can include the EAS DF information and the local offload management support indication. In some embodiments, at 7, the N4 session establishment request and / or response procedures can be provided. In some embodiments, when the SMF 206 responds to the Nsmf_PDUSession Create request, the SMF 206 can provide the local offload management policy to the I-SMF 204 at 8. In some embodiments, the I-SMF 204 can generate the local offload management information based on the policy received from the SMF 206. Further, the I-SMF 204 can configure the EAS DF based on the EAS deployment information and the local offload management information at 9. In some embodiments, at 10, the N4 session modification request and / or response procedures can be provided. In some embodiments, the AMF 202 can provide the N2 PDU session request to the RAN 120. In some embodiments, based on the N2 PDU session request, the RAN 120 can provide the RRC reconfiguration associated with the UE 110. In some embodiments, uplink data and / or downlink data can be transmitted between the UPF 408 and the UE 110.

[0160] Figure 5 Example transmissions between a PCF 414, a UDR / UDM 416, a NEF 502, and / or an AF 504 of a communication network are illustrated in accordance with one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, the PCF 414, the UDR / UDM 416, the NEF 502, and / or the AF 504 can correspond to a network function, a network element (e.g., the network element 132), a core network entity (e.g., one or more portions of the core network 130), and / or one or more other portions of a communication network. The AF 504 can correspond to an AF that resides at an OAM. The following example transmissions provide foreseen steps, network signals, or message passing to enable an I-SMF 204 to locally manage edge computing related information of a communication network. In one or more embodiments, the example transmissions illustrate SMF triggered I-SMF selection for local offload and / or management of data traffic in a communication network.

[0161] In some embodiments, at 1, the AF 504 can determine a local offload management policy and / or a list of DNAI(s) for local offload management.

[0162] In some embodiments, at 2, the NEF 502 can receive potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or a local offload management policy. For example, the AF 504 can send the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy to the NEF 502.

[0163] In some embodiments, at 3, the NEF 502 can store the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy. Additionally or alternatively, at 3, the NEF 502 can update the UDR / UDM 416 with the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy.

[0164] In some embodiments, at 4, the PCF 414 can receive potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or a local offload management policy. For example, the PCF 414 can receive the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy from the NEF 502 and / or the UDR / UDM 416.

[0165] Figure 6Example transmissions between a PCF 414, a UDR / UDM 416, a NEF 502, and / or an AF 504 of a communication network are illustrated in accordance with one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, the PCF 414, the UDR / UDM 416, the NEF 502, and / or the AF 504 can correspond to a network function, a network element (e.g., the network elements 132), a core network entity (e.g., one or more portions of the core network 130), and / or one or more other portions of the communication network. The AF 504 can correspond to an AF that resides at an OAM. The following example transmissions provide foreseen steps, network signals, or message passing to enable an I-SMF 204 to locally manage edge computing related information of a communication network. In one or more embodiments, the example transmissions illustrate SMF triggered I-SMF selection for local offload and / or management of data traffic in a communication network.

[0166] In some embodiments, at 1, the AF 504 can determine a local offload management policy and / or a list of DNAI(s) for local offload management.

[0167] In some embodiments, at 2, the PCF 414 can receive potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or a local offload management policy. For example, the PCF 414 can receive the potential locations of applications for local offload management, and / or the local offload management policy directly from the AF 504.

[0168] Figure 7 FIG. 7 illustrates a flow diagram that describes a method 700 in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure, Figure 8 FIG. 8 illustrates a flow diagram that describes a method 800 in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure, Figure 9 FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram that describes a method 900 in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the disclosure, Figure 10A flowchart illustrating a described method 1000 according to one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart and combinations of blocks in the flowchart can be implemented in various ways, such as hardware, firmware, processors, circuit systems, and / or other communication devices associated with the execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more processes described above can be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, computer program instructions embodying the processes described above can be stored, for example, by memory 14 of apparatus 10 employing embodiments of the present disclosure and executed by processing circuit system 12. As will be understood, any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine that causes the resulting computer or other programmable device to perform the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can instruct a computer or other programmable device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of art whose execution performs the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable device, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute in the computer or other programmable device, provide operations for implementing the function specified in the flowchart box.

[0169] Therefore, the boxes in a flowchart support combinations of components used to perform a specified function and combinations of operations used to perform a specified function. It will also be understood that one or more boxes in a flowchart, as well as combinations of boxes in a flowchart, can be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based computer system or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions to perform the specified function.

[0170] Now for reference Figure 7 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, such as by Figure 3 The device 10 performs operations to enable the selection of the I-SMF of the communication network to compute relevant information at the local management edge. In some embodiments, method 700 is associated with the functionality of AMF 202. Figure 7 As shown in block 702, device 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to receive network signals from a session management function (SMF), the network signals including: (i) a data network access identifier (DNAI) associated with an application and configured for local offloading in a communications network and / or (ii) an indication that the DNAI is permitted for local offloading. In some embodiments, the network signals include a list of DNAIs and / or an indication that the list of DNAIs is permitted. Figure 7As shown in block 704, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to determine, based on the indication, a set of candidate SMFs that support a local configuration of DNAI and traffic offload on the DNAI. As Figure 7 As shown in block 706, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to select, from the set of candidate SMFs, a candidate SMF as an intermediate session management function (I-SMF) for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMF is not the SMF associated with the network signal. As Figure 7 As shown in block 708, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to store mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF. In some embodiments, the mapping information can be tracked by the AMF to not trigger I-SME removal for the I-SMF inserted for local offload management purposes.

[0171] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to store the indication provided by the SMF. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to associate the indication with the selected I-SMF to generate the mapping information.

[0172] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to prevent a removal procedure of the inserted I-SMF based on the mapping information to enable local offload management.

[0173] In some embodiments, selecting the candidate SMF includes removing, from the set of candidate SMFs, the SMF associated with the network signal to generate a filtered set of candidate SMFs. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, selecting the candidate SMF includes selecting, from the filtered set of candidate SMFs, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, selecting the candidate SMF includes selecting, based on a location of a user equipment associated with the PDU session, the candidate SMF as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

[0174] In some embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to cause transmission of a second network signal associated with the PDU session based on the I-SMF.

[0175] In some embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing the PDU session to the I-SMF.

[0176] In some embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing the PDU session to the SMF associated with the network signal.

[0177] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause the communication session between the I-SMF and the SMF to be conducted based on the second network signal.

[0178] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause the establishment of the PDU session to be conducted based on the second network signal.

[0179] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause the selection of an edge application server discovery function (EASDF) via the I-SMF based on the second network signal.

[0180] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to cause the transmission of the second network signal in response to a determination that the SMF is capable of serving the DNAI.

[0181] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to receive the network signal in response to a determination by the SMF that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and / or management of data traffic.

[0182] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to receive the network signal in response to a determination by the SMF that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge compute information for the user equipment.

[0183] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 comprises means, such as the processing circuitry 12, the memory 14, etc., configured to receive the network signal in response to a determination by the SMF that the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports EDC functionality.

[0184] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to receive a network signal in response to the SMF determining that a DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for a user equipment and the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports an EDC function.

[0185] Reference is now made to Figure 8 , in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure, such as performed by Figure 3 the apparatus 10 to trigger insertion of an I-SMF of a communication network to locally manage edge computing related information. In some embodiments, the method 800 is associated with functionality of the SMF 206. As shown in block 802 of Figure 8 the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to determine whether a data network access identifier (DNAI) associated with an application is allowed for local offload in a communication network. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to determine whether a list of DNAIs is allowed for local offload. As shown in block 804 of Figure 8 the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to determine whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for a user equipment associated with a PDU session. In some embodiments, session management subscription data can be used to determine whether the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment associated with the PDU session. As shown in block 806 of Figure 8 the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to determine whether the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports an edge domain name system client (EDC) function. As shown in block 808 of Figure 8 the apparatus 10 includes means, such as the processing circuitry 12, memory 14, etc., configured to cause transmission of a network signal to an access and mobility management function (AMF) of the communication network based on determining that the DNAI is allowed for local offload and that the DNAI is allowed for local offload management of edge computing information for the user equipment, wherein the network signal includes: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is locally configured for offload of traffic on the DNAI. In some embodiments, the network signal includes: a list of DNAIs and / or an indication that a list of DNAIs is allowed.

[0186] In some embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as a processing circuit system 12 and a memory 14, which are configured to cause the transmission of a second network signal to the I-SMF to cause the I-SMF to configure the EASDF.

[0187] In some embodiments, the network signal is a first network signal, and additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to receive a second network signal associated with a PDU session from the AMF. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to cause a third network signal to be transmitted to the I-SMF based on the second network signal, thereby inducing selection of the EASDF via the I-SMF.

[0188] In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to initiate the transmission of network signals during the establishment of a PDU session in response to receiving policy information from the PCF of the communication network. In some embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to initiate the transmission of network signals prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

[0189] Now for reference Figure 9 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, such as by Figure 3 The device 10 performs operations to enable the I-SMF of the communication network to compute relevant information at the local management edge. In some embodiments, method 900 is associated with the functionality of PCF 414. Figure 9 As shown in block 902, the apparatus 10 includes components such as a processing circuitry system 12 and a memory 14, configured to receive a request for storage service impact (TI) information from the Network Open Function (NEF), the TI information indicating one or more Data Network Access Identifiers (DNAIs) permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information. Figure 9 As shown in block 904, additionally or alternatively, device 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to update TI information stored in the network device based on one or more DNAIs permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information. Figure 9As shown in block 906, additionally or alternatively, device 10 includes components such as processing circuitry system 12 and memory 14, which are configured to send notifications to a policy control function (PCF) that subscribes to TI updates based on changes to one or more DNAIs that are permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information.

[0190] Now for reference Figure 10 According to one or more embodiments of this disclosure, such as by Figure 3 The device 10 performs operations to enable the I-SMF of the communication network to compute relevant information at the local management edge. In some embodiments, method 1000 is associated with the functionality of AF 504. Figure 10 As shown in block 1002, device 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, configured to: determine a request indicating one or more Data Network Access Identifiers (DNAIs) associated with at least an application, and instructing that one or more DNAIs be permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information in a communication network. Figure 10 As shown in block 1004, additionally or alternatively, the apparatus 10 includes components such as processing circuitry 12 and memory 14, which are configured to send the request as part of a service impact (TI) request to the network open function (NEF) or as part of a policy request to the policy control function (PCF).

[0191] As mentioned above, Figures 7-10 This is a flowchart illustrating various methods that can be executed by, for example, apparatus 10 and / or according to a computer program product, based on exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, a computer program product is defined where computer program instructions (such as computer-readable program code portions) are stored by at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer program instructions (such as computer-readable program code portions) are configured, when executed, to perform the functions described above, for example, with... Figure 7 Communication flowchart Figure 8 Communication flowchart Figure 9 Communication flowchart Figure 10 Combined with the communication flowchart, as Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 Part of the communication network, as Figure 4A The signaling flow graph is part of, as Figure 4B Part of the signaling flow graph, or as Figure 6 Part of the signaling flow graph, and / or as Figure 7In other embodiments, computer program instructions, such as portions of computer-readable program code, need not be stored or otherwise embodied by a non-transitory computer- readable storage medium, but can be embodied by a transitory medium, where the computer program instructions, such as portions of computer-readable program code, when executed, are still configured to perform the functions described above.

[0192] Accordingly, blocks of the flowchart support combinations of means for performing the specified functions, combinations of operations for performing the specified functions and combinations of both. It will also be understood that one or more blocks of the flowchart, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart, can be implemented by special purpose hardware -based computer systems which perform some or all of the specified functions, or combinations of computer program instructions and special purpose hardware.

[0193] In some embodiments, certain ones of the above-described operations can be modified or further amplified. Furthermore, in some embodiments, additional optional operations can be included. Modifications, additions, or amplifications to the operations above can be performed in any order and in any combination.

[0194] Many modifications and other embodiments of the disclosures set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A device for communication, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory stores instructions for access management functions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform: Receive network signals from the Session Management Function (SMF), the network signals including: (i) a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) associated with the application and configured for local offloading in the communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for the local offloading; Based on the indication, a set of candidate SMFs is determined to support the DNAI and the local configuration for service offloading on the DNAI; Candidate SMFs are selected from the set of candidate SMFs as intermediate session management functions (I-SMFs) for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMFs are not the SMFs associated with the network signal; and Store the mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the network signal is a first network signal, and wherein the instruction, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to perform: This triggers the transmission of a second network signal associated with establishing a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session to the I-SMF.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein selecting the candidate SMF comprises: Remove the SMFs associated with the network signal from the candidate SMF set to generate a filtered candidate SMF set; as well as The candidate SMF is selected from the filtered set of candidate SMFs as the I-SMF for the DNAI.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein selecting the candidate SMF comprises: The candidate SMF is selected as the I-SMF for the DNAI based on the location of the user equipment associated with the Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform one of the following: In response to the SMF determining that the DNAI is permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information for user equipment, and that the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports the Edge Domain Name System Client (EDC) function, the network signal is received; Store the indication provided by the SMF; as well as The instruction is associated with the selected I-SMF to generate the mapping information; or Based on the mapping information, the insertion of the I-SMF removal process is prevented, thereby enabling local unloading management.

6. A device for communication, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory stores instructions for session management functions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform: Determine whether the Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) associated with the application is permitted for local offloading within the communication network; Determine whether the DNAI is permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information for user equipment associated with Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions; Determine whether the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports Edge Domain Name System (EDC) client functionality; as well as Based on the determination that the DNAI is permitted for local offloading and that the DNAI is permitted for the edge computing information of the user equipment, a network signal is transmitted to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) of the communication network, wherein the network signal includes: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication of a local configuration that the DNAI is permitted for service offloading on the DNAI.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the network signal is a first network signal, and wherein the instruction, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to: This triggers the transmission of a second network signal to the I-SMF, thereby inducing the I-SMF to configure the Edge Application Server Discovery Function (EASDF).

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the transmission causing the network signal comprises one of the following: In response to receiving policy information from the policy control function (PCF) of the communication network, the transmission of network signals is initiated during the establishment of the PDU session; or The transmission of the network signal is initiated prior to a request for access network resources associated with the PDU session.

9. A method for communication, comprising: Receive network signals from the Session Management Function (SMF), the network signals including: (i) a Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) associated with the application and configured for local offloading in the communication network, and (ii) an indication that the DNAI is allowed for the local offloading; Based on the indication, a set of candidate SMFs is determined to support the DNAI and the local configuration for service offloading on the DNAI; Candidate SMFs are selected from the set of candidate SMFs as intermediate session management functions (I-SMFs) for the DNAI, wherein the candidate SMFs are not the SMFs associated with the network signal; and Store the mapping information between the selected I-SMF and the indication provided by the SMF.

10. A method for communication, comprising: Determine whether the Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI) associated with the application is permitted for local offloading within the communication network; Determine whether the DNAI is permitted for local offloading management of edge computing information for user equipment associated with Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions; Determine whether the user equipment associated with the PDU session supports Edge Domain Name System (EDC) client functionality; as well as Based on determining that the DNAI is permitted for the local offloading, determining that the DNAI is permitted for the local offloading management of the edge computing information for the user equipment, and determining that the user equipment supports EDC functionality, a transmission of network signals to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) of the communication network is caused, wherein the network signals include: (i) the DNAI, and (ii) an indication of a local configuration that the DNAI is permitted for service offloading on the DNAI.

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