MOBILE NETWORK CONTROL DEVICE, MOBILE NETWORK CONTROL METHOD, AND MOBILE NETWORK CONTROL PROGRAM

Abstract

In the present invention, a control function unit of a mobile network receives, from a user terminal having accessed the mobile network, a request for communication with a data processing device connected to an external network located outside the mobile network. The control function unit determines whether a user of the user terminal is a registered user. When the user of the user terminal is a registered user, the control function unit transmits, to an external network control device which controls the external network, information to be used for establishing communication between a communication device in the mobile network and the data processing device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mobile network control device, an external network control device, a mobile network control method, an external network control method, a mobile network control program, and an external network control program. [Background technology]

[0002] The increasing use of IoT (Internet of Things) devices is leading to advances in communication technology. Communication technology is becoming more advanced, and a variety of networks are being constructed. Networks are classified as fixed networks or mobile networks.

[0003] Generally, communication services are provided separately by fixed networks and mobile networks. To improve the convenience of communication services, communication operators are trying to strengthen cooperation between devices connected to fixed networks and mobile networks. Therefore, fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) is becoming increasingly important.

[0004] In 5G (5th Generation Mobile Communication System), WWC (Wireless and Wireline Convergence) is proposed as a method to realize mobile and fixed convergence. Research on WWC is being carried out mainly by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the Broadband Forum (BBF), and CableLabs. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0005] [Non-Patent Document 1] “TR-470 5G Wireless Wireline Convergence Architecture” [online], [Retrieved February 9, 2022], Internet<https: / / www.broadband-forum.org / technical / download / TR-470.pdf> [Non-patent document 2] “3GPP TS 23.501 V17.2.0 (2021-09)” [online], [Retrieved February 9, 2022], Internet<https: / / www.3gpp.org / ftp / Specs / archive / 23_series / 23.501 / 23501-h20.zip> [Non-patent document 3] “3GPP TS 23.502 V17.2.1 (2021-09)” [online], [Retrieved February 9, 2022], Internet<https: / / www.3gpp.org / ftp / Specs / archive / 23_series / 23.502 / 23502-h21.zip> Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, with the above-mentioned prior art, it may be difficult to perform consistent communication control across a mobile network and an external network outside the mobile network.

[0007] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a mobile network control device, an external network control device, a mobile network control method, an external network control method, a mobile network control program, and an external network control program that can perform consistent communication control across a mobile network and an external network outside the mobile network. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile network control device includes a request receiving unit that receives a request for communication with a data processing device connected to an external network outside the mobile network from a user terminal that has accessed the mobile network, a determination unit that determines whether the user of the user terminal is a registered user, and a transmission unit that, if the user of the user terminal is a registered user, transmits information used to establish communication between a communication device in the mobile network and the data processing device to an external network control device that controls the external network. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] A mobile network control device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure can perform consistent communication control across a mobile network and an external network outside the mobile network. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of 5GC control for fixed network access in WWC. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of a network configuration in WWC. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of communication control in WWC. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an overview of communication control according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of network cooperation according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a communication configuration according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A illustrates an example of additional functionality according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B illustrates an example of additional functionality according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a mobile network configuration according to the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the overall configuration of a network according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an example of an SMF configuration according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of communication control according to the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process for controlling communication across a mobile network and an external network. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 illustrates another example of network cooperation according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of the hardware configuration of a computer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Several embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these several embodiments. Several features of various embodiments can be combined in various ways, provided that these several features are not mutually contradictory. Identical elements are indicated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted.

[0012] The following description is composed of nine sections and one appendix: 1. Introduction, 2. Overview of communication control, 3. Details of communication control, 4. Sequence diagram of communication control, 5. Other embodiments, 6. Effects, 7. Other, 8. Hardware configuration, 9. Summary of embodiments, and Appendix 1 - Glossary.

[0013] 1. Introduction As 5G becomes more widespread, mobile-fixed convergence is becoming increasingly important. WWC is a technology that realizes mobile-fixed convergence within 5G. In WWC, the 5G Core Network uses dedicated devices and network functions. This allows the 5G Core Network to control both mobile and fixed network communications, regardless of the type of access.

[0014] [1-1. Communication control in WWC] Figure 1 shows 5GC control 10, which is an example of 5GC (5G Core Network) control of fixed access in WWC. Fixed network access is converted to 5GC-compatible access under 5GC control 10. Definitions of the elements depicted in Figure 1 are provided in "Appendix 1 - Glossary."

[0015] The RAN (Radio Access Network), 5G-RG (5G-Residential Gateway), AGF (Access Gateway Function), FMIF (Fixed Mobile Interworking Function), and 5GC are within the scope of communication control in WWC (scope 11). The 5G-RG, AGF, and FMIF are new devices introduced in WWC.

[0016] In contrast, the fixed core network and the Data Network are outside the scope of communication control in the WWC. The fixed core network and the Data Network are depicted as external networks 12 outside the 5GC.

[0017] The external network 12 is a network other than a mobile network defined by 3GPP. The external network 12 uses conventional fixed network communication. The fixed core network is, for example, an NGN (Next Generation Network). The data network is, for example, the Internet.

[0018] [1-2. Network configuration at WWC] 2 shows a network configuration 20, which is an example of a network configuration in WWC. The network configuration 20 includes two domains: a mobile network 21 and an external network 12. Elements of the mobile network 21 are within the scope of communication control in WWC (scope 11 in FIG. 1).

[0019] As shown in Figure 2, a UE (User Equipment) on the mobile network 21 side is the starting point of communication. The UE connects to a server in a different domain. In the example of Figure 2, the different domain is an external network 12. The UE on the mobile network 21 side connects to a server on the external network 12 side.

[0020] The network device of each domain includes a control function unit, a forwarding function group, and a DB (Data Base). The control function unit corresponds to the C-Plane (Control Plane) in 5GC. The forwarding function group corresponds to the U-Plane (User Plane) in 5GC. The control function unit of a certain domain is not directly connected to the control function unit of a different domain. In the example of Figure 2, the control function unit of the mobile network 21 is not directly connected to the control function unit of the external network 12.

[0021] The control function unit accesses information related to the user contract. The control function unit also controls the forwarding function groups within its own domain. The control function unit applies communication settings to the forwarding function groups. The forwarding function groups are implemented by communication devices such as routers used to forward data. The DB manages user information and communication control policies. The DB uses a user identifier (for example, GPSI (Generic Public Subscription Identifier)) as a key. The DB provides the communication control policy and access information to the control function unit.

[0022] WWC envisions that mobile and fixed convergence will be realized by incorporating the network's C-Plane functions into 5GC. Existing fixed network access will be converted to a form compatible with 5GC using dedicated equipment and network functions. After conversion, communication control will be carried out in accordance with 5GC specifications. This will enable 5GC to achieve communication control that is independent of access.

[0023] [1-3. Communication Quality] WWC does not anticipate E2E (end to end) communication control or quality assurance through collaboration with external networks 12 such as NGN.

[0024] 3 shows a communication control 30, which is an example of communication control in WWC. Communications of the mobile network 21 and communications of the external network 12 are carried out separately under the communication control 30. This is because the administrator of the mobile network 21 is different from the administrator of the external network 12. Therefore, independent control policies are applied to the control function units of the mobile network 21 and the external network 12, respectively.

[0025] In the mobile network 21, communication is performed via a path 31. In the external network 12, communication is performed via a path 32. The path 31 ensures communication quality between the UE and the forwarding function group of the mobile network 21. The path 32 ensures communication quality between the forwarding device group and the server of the external network 12. Therefore, the communication quality of the mobile network 21 is independent of the communication quality of the external network 12.

[0026] From the perspective of convenience of communication services, telecommunications carriers want to establish paths that ensure communication quality regardless of domain. In mobile-fixed convergence, paths are required to ensure communication quality E2E, including multiple domains outside the control of 5GC. However, telecommunications carriers differ for each domain. Therefore, it is generally difficult to perform consistent communication control across domains.

[0027] In order to solve the above problems, a mobile network control device and an external network control device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure perform one or more communication controls described below.

[0028] [2. Overview of communication control] First, an overview of communication control according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Note that this overview is not intended to limit the present invention or the embodiments described in the following sections.

[0029] [2-1. Communication control independent of destination] WWC realizes communication control that is independent of access. On the other hand, the communication control according to the present disclosure realizes communication control that is independent of destination in addition to access. The destination is, for example, the external network 12 in FIG. 3.

[0030] A mobile network control device and an external network control device according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure perform heterogeneous network cooperation while ensuring communication quality through E2E. To issue instructions to the entire communication section across domains, the mobile network control device transmits communication control information to the external network control device. As a result, the communication control information is shared between the heterogeneous networks.

[0031] Communication control information is circulated between heterogeneous networks, and the same policy is interpreted and applied across the heterogeneous networks. The WWC proposed by 3GPP does not have a mechanism for control that takes into account the state of external networks outside the mobile network defined by 3GPP. To cooperate with external networks, mobile network control devices adopt a method for exchanging communication control information and control signals between heterogeneous networks. The goal is to perform consistent communication control across domains.

[0032] [2-2. E2E communication control across domains] 4 shows an overview 40 of communication control according to the present disclosure. The mobile network control device is implemented by a control function unit 41 and a DB 42 of the mobile network 21. As will be described later, the control function unit 41 corresponds to, for example, a Session Management Function (SMF) of 5GC. The DB 42 corresponds to, for example, a Unified Data Management (UDM). The external network control device is implemented by a control function unit 43 and a DB of the external network 12.

[0033] The control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 plays a central role in network cooperation. The control function unit 41 transmits communication control information to the external network 12. The communication control information is applied to the control function unit 43 of the external network 12. As a result, network cooperation is established between the control function unit 41 and the control function unit 43. The control function unit 41 then controls E2E communication across domains. Such communication control is realized by additional functions of the control function unit 41 and the control function unit 43 and user information in the DB 42, which do not exist in the WWC proposed by 3GPP.

[0034] First, the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 determines whether network interaction is necessary based on the user information in the DB 42 (step S1). The DB 42 manages user information for network interaction. The user information indicates which users will use the network interaction.

[0035] If network cooperation is necessary, the control function unit 41 transmits communication control information to the external network 12 (step S2).

[0036] Next, the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 performs communication control based on the communication control information (step S3). The control function unit 43 interprets the communication control information for its own domain and then applies the communication control information to its own domain. As a result, communication is performed over the path 45. The path 45 ensures consistent communication quality between the UE and the server.

[0037] As described above, the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 determines whether network cooperation is necessary. Then, the control function unit 41 transmits communication control information to the external network 12, and the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 performs communication control. Therefore, the control function unit 41 can establish a path that ensures communication quality in E2E.

[0038] [3. Details of communication control] The communication control according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 5-11.

[0039] [3-1. Coexistence with regular communications] The UE does not send a network cooperation-aware request; the mobile network determines whether the communication requires network cooperation. Therefore, the UE uses a normal connection request or DNN (Data Network Name). When the UE communicates with a specific destination server, the UE uses a dedicated route that provides network cooperation.

[0040] FIG. 5 illustrates network interaction 50, an example of network interaction according to the present disclosure. Network interaction 50 establishes a network interaction path. The network interaction path is used when a UE communicates with a specific destination associated with user registration information or designated by a carrier. Note that network interaction according to the present disclosure is not limited to network interaction 50 in which specific communication uses a network interaction path. In network interaction according to the present disclosure, all communication may use a network interaction path. Such network interaction will be described later with reference to FIG. 13. The network interaction procedure described below is substantially the same as that of network interaction 50. However, the network interaction procedure described below is realized by a simpler method.

[0041] The DB of the mobile network 21 stores association information associated with the DNN and user information.

[0042] The association information indicates a specific connection destination. In other words, the specific connection destination is the association destination. The association destination is indicated by, for example, a 5-tuple. The user information includes a user identifier.

[0043] The external network 12 executes communication control based on the specification of the mobile network 21. In the example of Fig. 5, a server of the external network 12 is a specific connection destination. For example, this server provides a specific service that requires guaranteed communication quality or a closed connection.

[0044] In step S51, the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 receives a session establishment request from the terminal (UE). The request includes a DNN and a user identifier.

[0045] In step S52, the control function unit 41 determines whether the association information associated with the DNN and the user identifier is stored in the DB 42.

[0046] If the link information is not stored in the DB 42 (step S52: No), the control function unit 41 establishes a normal session (step S53).

[0047] If the association information is stored in DB 42 (step S52: Yes), the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 and the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 establish a session including a distribution and a path for association (step S54).

[0048] In step S55, the control function unit 41 performs communication from the terminal.

[0049] In step S56, the control function unit 41 determines whether the server with which the terminal is attempting to communicate matches the server with which the terminal is associated, based on the association information in the DB 42. The server with which the terminal is attempting to communicate is the communication destination, and the server with which the terminal is associated is the association destination. The control function unit 41 can establish a network association path using an ULCL (Uplink Classifier), which is a distribution function defined in the 3GPP standard. Communications with a specific destination can use the network association path. Specific communications flow through the network association path, and other communications flow through the DN (Data Network) without any special communication control.

[0050] If the server with which the terminal attempts to communicate does not match the server with which the terminal cooperates (step S56: No), the terminal performs communication using a conventional path (step S57).

[0051] If the server with which the terminal attempts to communicate matches the server with which the terminal is linked (step S56: Yes), the terminal accesses the server via the network linkage path (step S58).

[0052] [3-2. Rough control procedure] The control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 and the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 realize network cooperation through a control procedure as illustrated in FIG.

[0053] 6 shows a communication configuration 60, which is an example of a communication configuration according to the present disclosure. The communication configuration 60 includes a series of operations from operation 61 to operation 65. This series of operations is depicted as a rough flow of the communication configuration. In particular, operation 62, operation 63, and operation 64 are a series of operations for network cooperation that do not exist in the 5G standard defined by 3GPP.

[0054] Regarding the terms in the communication setup 60, "setting in progress" means that the operation is in the middle of communication setup. "Not set" means that communication setup is not complete. "Waiting" means that the operation is in a waiting state. "Setting complete" means that communication setup is complete.

[0055] The control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 receives a connection and setup request from the UE (operation 61).

[0056] The control function unit 41 determines whether network cooperation is necessary by referring to information in the DB 42 in the mobile network 21 (operation 62).

[0057] When cooperation is necessary, the control function unit 41 requests the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 to set up communication during the setting up of mobile network communication (operation 63). Specifically, the control function unit 41 transmits communication control information to the control function unit 43.

[0058] After the control function unit 43 completes the setting, the control function unit 43 requests the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 to resume the setting (operation 64). Specifically, the control function unit 41 transmits a setting completion notification to the control function unit 41.

[0059] The control function unit 41 and the control function unit 43 complete the configuration of the mobile network and then establish an E2E path (operation 65).

[0060] [3-3. Additional functions for the control function section] As described above with reference to Fig. 4, communication control according to the present disclosure is realized by the additional functions of the control function unit 41 and the control function unit 43 and new information in the DB 42. In terms of function, the mobile network control device is implemented by the control function unit 41 and the DB 42 of the mobile network 21. Furthermore, the external network control device is implemented by the control function unit 43 and the DB of the external network 12. In terms of hardware, the mobile network control device and the external network control device are implemented by data processing devices such as an RNC (Radio Network Controller) and a server.

[0061] The control function unit 41 is a controller. The control function unit 41 is implemented by one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU)) that use a random access memory (RAM) as a working area and execute various programs stored in a storage device of the mobile network control device. The control function unit 41 may also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a general purpose graphic processing unit (GPGPU). The one or more processors can implement each control unit by executing instructions stored in one or more memories of the mobile network control device.

[0062] Similarly, the control function unit 43 is a controller. The control function unit 43 is implemented by one or more processors (e.g., CPU, MPU) that use RAM as a working area and execute various programs stored in a storage device of the external network control device. The control function unit 43 may also be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC, FPGA, or GPGPU. The one or more processors can implement each control unit by executing instructions stored in one or more memories of the external network control device.

[0063] Control function unit 41, control function unit 43 and DB 42 have additional functionality that is not present in the 5G standard proposed by 3GPP.

[0064] 7A and 7B collectively show additional function 70, which is an example of an additional function according to the present disclosure. The network configuration shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B is the same as that shown in FIG. 2. Additional function 70 is a function that executes the processes of steps S71, S72, and S73 shown in FIG. 7B.

[0065] The control function unit 41 receives a request for communication with a data processing device connected to the external network 12 from a UE that has accessed the mobile network 21. The data processing device is, for example, a server.

[0066] The control function unit 41 determines whether the user of the UE is a registered user. If the user of the UE is a registered user, the control function unit 41 transmits information used to establish communication between the communication device of the mobile network 21 and the data processing device to the control function unit 43 of the external network 12. The communication device of the mobile network 21 is, for example, a forwarding function group. The information used to establish communication between the communication device of the mobile network 21 and the data processing device is, for example, linkage information.

[0067] The control function unit 41 receives a response indicating that communication has been established between the communication device of the mobile network 21 and the data processing device from the control function unit 43. In response to receiving the response, the control function unit 41 establishes communication between the UE and the communication device of the mobile network 21.

[0068] The control function unit 41 is an example of a request receiving unit, a determining unit, a transmitting unit, a response receiving unit, and an establishing unit.

[0069] The control function unit 43 receives from the control function unit 41 information used to establish communication between a communication device in the external network 12 and a data processing device connected to the external network 12. The communication device in the external network 12 is, for example, a group of transfer devices.

[0070] The control function unit 43 establishes communication between the communication device in the external network 12 and the data processing device based on the information received from the control function unit 41. For example, the control function unit 43 converts the received information into a format suitable for the external network 12 based on the control policy of the external network 12. Based on the converted information, the control function unit 43 establishes communication between the communication device in the external network 12 and the data processing device.

[0071] The control function unit 43 is an example of a receiving unit and an establishing unit.

[0072] In step S71, the control function unit 41 refers to the DB 42 and then determines the necessity of network cooperation for each user.

[0073] The DB 42 stores association information associated with user information. For example, a user identifier is associated with a connection destination in network association. The DB 42 can provide association information.

[0074] The control function unit 41 acquires the linkage information from the DB 42. The control function unit 41 can also hold information related to network linkage. The information related to network linkage will be described later with reference to Fig. 10. The control function unit 41 determines the necessity of network linkage based on the linkage information.

[0075] In step S72, the control function unit 41 distributes the communication control information from the mobile network 21 to the external network 12.

[0076] The control function unit 41 transmits communication control information for network cooperation to the control function unit 43. The control function unit 43 receives the communication control information for network cooperation from the control function unit 41.

[0077] In step S73, the control function unit 41 and the control function unit 43 establish an E2E path 73.

[0078] The control function unit 41 transmits and receives a communication control signal for network interworking with the transfer function group of the mobile network 21. The control function unit 41 also transmits the communication control signal for network interworking to the control function unit 43. The control function unit 43 receives the communication control signal for network interworking from the control function unit 41. The control function unit 43 transmits and receives the communication control signal for network interworking with the transfer device group of the external network 12. The control function unit 43 interprets the communication control signal transmitted from the control function unit 41. Then, the control function unit 43 inputs the signal converted into a form compatible with the external network 12 into the external network 12.

[0079] [3-4. Details of mobile and external networks] The specific configuration of the mobile network 21 and the external network 12 is, for example, 5GC.

[0080] 8 shows a configuration 80 that is an example of a mobile network configuration according to the present disclosure. In the configuration 80, a range 81 of communication control by the mobile network corresponds to a range 82 of communication control by the 5G network.

[0081] The control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 corresponds to an AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function), an SMF (Session Management Function), a PCF (Policy Control Function), etc. The DB 42 of the mobile network 21 corresponds to a UDM (Unified Data Management). The transfer function group of the mobile network 21 corresponds to an AN (Access Network) and a UPF (User Plane Function).

[0082] The DB 42 (UDM) of the mobile network 21 manages new information for network interaction. As described above, the DB 42 (UDM) stores interaction information associated with user information. The DB 42 (UDM) can provide interaction information in response to a request from the SMF.

[0083] The key is user information. The stored information includes, for example, a DNN for implementing network collaboration, a UPF identifier (e.g., DNN) used in the session, and the IP (Internet Protocol) address of the destination server.

[0084] 9 shows a configuration 90, which is an example of the overall configuration of a network according to the present disclosure. In the configuration 90, the external network 12 corresponds to the range (range 91) of communication control by the 5G network. If the external network 12 is a 5G network, the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 corresponds to a configuration equivalent to the control function unit 41 described above with reference to FIG. 8.

[0085] As described above, the control function unit 43 receives a communication control signal transmitted from the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21. The control function unit 43 can also transmit and receive network interworking signals to and from the control function unit 41. For example, the network interworking signal notifies the control function unit 41 of the setting state of the control function unit 43. The control function unit 43 converts the received communication control signal into a format suitable for the domain (i.e., the external network 12) managed by the control function unit 43. Then, the control function unit 43 performs network control using the communication control signal converted into a format suitable for the domain.

[0086] [3-5.SMF Structure] The control function unit 41 has an extended SMF function and a new function. The function of the control function unit 41 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0087] 10 is a block diagram of an example of the configuration of an SMF 100 according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 10, the SMF 100 includes an external connection interface 101, a processing function unit 102, and a DB 103.

[0088] An additional element of the processing function unit 102 is a function to acquire information related to network interaction. The processing function unit 102 acquires interaction information associated with user information from the DB 103. The processing function unit 102 acquires information related to the user from the UDM in a sequence of a conventional method (for example, a 3GPP standard method). When the information related to the user is acquired, the processing function unit 102 also acquires information related to network interaction from the UDM.

[0089] Another additional element of the processing function unit 102 is a function to transmit communication control information for network interworking to the external network 12. The SMF 100 has a function to select a UPF to be used in a session. When it is determined that network interworking is necessary, the processing function unit 102 acquires UPF information for network interworking from DB 103 in the SMF 100. This UPF information for network interworking is new information held in DB 103. The processing function unit 102 performs communication settings of GTP (GPRS Tunneling Protocol) for the target UPF, etc.

[0090] The new information stored in DB 103 is information related to network interworking. DB 103 stores UPF information used for network interworking. A UPF identifier such as a DNN is associated with this UPF information. DB 103 also stores the IP address of the interworking destination. For example, the interworking destination is the control function unit 43 of the external network 12.

[0091] The key is the UPF identifier used for network collaboration. The UPF identifier is issued by the UDR. The stored information is the UPF information and the IP address of the collaboration destination.

[0092] The processing function unit 102 includes three new functions.

[0093] The first new function is a function to determine whether network cooperation is necessary. The processing function unit 102 compares the destination DNN with the DNN for implementing network cooperation. Based on the comparison, the processing function unit 102 determines whether network cooperation is necessary. The destination DNN is assigned from the UE (terminal) when a session is established. The DNN for implementing network cooperation is acquired from the DB 42 (UDM) of the mobile network 21.

[0094] The second new function is a function of transmitting communication control information for network cooperation to the external network 12. When it is determined that network cooperation is necessary, the processing function unit 102 acquires information necessary for communication control.

[0095] Specifically, the processing function unit 102 acquires "communication control information, user identifier, and UE IP address" for the session from the DB 103 in the SMF 100. The "communication control information, user identifier, and UE IP address" are the previously stored information. The processing function unit 102 then acquires UPF information and the IP address of the network interworking destination used for network interworking from the DB 103 in the SMF 100 (new stored information). The network interworking destination is the control function unit 43 of the external network 12. The UPF information and the IP address of the network interworking destination are new stored information. The processing function unit 102 communicates with the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 based on the UPF information and the IP address of the network interworking destination.

[0096] The third new function is a function for transmitting and receiving signals for network cooperation with the transfer function group of the mobile network 21. The processing function unit 102 communicates with the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 using the path used for transmitting the communication control information. The processing function unit 102 can distribute various information from the processing function unit 102 to the control function unit 43 using a method for transmitting communication control information to the external network 12.

[0097] The processing function unit 102 receives a response from the control function unit 43. After the response is received, the processing function unit 102 suspends the communication setting on the mobile network 21 side until a setting completion notification is received from the external network 12. In response to receiving the setting completion notification, the processing function unit 102 resumes the setting within the 5G network.

[0098] Fig. 11 shows communication control 110, which is an example of communication control according to the present disclosure. The communication control 110 is E2E communication control across a 5G network and an external network 12 associated with user information. When a UE (user terminal) is connected to the 5G network, the SMF 100 in Fig. 10 performs communication control 110. The SMF within the range (range 91) of communication control by the 5G network is the SMF 100 in Fig. 10.

[0099] In step S111, the UE sends a request to the AMF to connect to the 5G network and establish a PDU session.

[0100] In step S112, the SMF (SMF 100) refers to the user information. Then, the SMF determines whether network interworking is necessary. If network interworking is necessary, the SMF selects a UPF for network interworking.

[0101] In step S113, the UPF transfers the user information and communication control information to the external network. This transfer is a new function of the SMF. The SMF waits for the communication setup of the external network 12 to be completed.

[0102] In step S114, the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 performs communication setup based on the user information and communication control information. The communication setup on the external network 12 side is completed in step S114.

[0103] In step S115, the control function unit 43 transmits to the SMF a notification indicating that the communication setup has been completed.

[0104] In step S116, the SMF resumes the establishment of the PDU session on the 5G network side and establishes E2E communication. The communication setting on the 5G network side is completed in step S116.

[0105] [4. Communication control sequence diagram] Next, a sequence diagram of an example of communication control according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0106] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of process P200, which is an example of a process for controlling communications across a mobile network and an external network. The basic sequence in FIG. 12 complies with the 3GPP standard described in "TR-470 5G Wireless Wireline Convergence Architecture (URL: https: / / www.broadband-forum.org / technical / download / TR-470.pdf)." The change in the sequence is the network cooperation process. The network cooperation process is added between "10b. N4 Session Establishment / Modification Response" and "11. Namf_Communication_N1N2MessageTransfer" in Figure 4.3.2.2.1-1.

[0107] As shown in Figure 12, the AMF sends a request to establish a PDU session to the SMF 100 (step S201). The AMF sends the destination DNN and user information.

[0108] The SMF 100 sends a request for issuing user information to the UDM (step S202).

[0109] The UDM delivers the user information (step S203).

[0110] The UDM issues network interaction information (step S204). The network interaction information includes (1) a DNN for implementing network interaction, (2) information specifying a UPF (UPF information), and (3) an IP address of the interaction destination.

[0111] The SMF 100 sends a request for session control information to the PCF (step S205).

[0112] The SMF 100 receives the session control information as a response from the PCF (step S206).

[0113] The SMF 100 determines whether network interaction is necessary based on the user information and the network interaction information (step S207). The SMF 100 compares the DNN for performing network interaction with the DNN received from the AMF (i.e., the destination DNN). Based on the comparison, the SMF 100 determines the necessity of network interaction.

[0114] Furthermore, the SMF 100 selects the UPF to be used. When network cooperation is performed, the SMF 100 uses the UPF information to select and configure the UPF.

[0115] The SMF 100 transmits a request for communication setup to the UPF (step S208).

[0116] The SMF 100 receives the response from the UPF (step S209).

[0117] When the SMF 100 sets communication distribution, the SMF 100 uses the IP address of the link destination assigned by the UDM. The IP address of the link destination is the IP address of the control function unit of the external network 12.

[0118] The SMF 100 acquires communication control information (step S210) from a database within the SMF 100. The communication control information includes a user identifier, information related to communication quality, and the IP address of the UE.

[0119] The SMF 100 transmits a network interaction request to the UPF (step S211). The SMF 100 presents the communication control information to the control function unit of the external network 12 via the UPF associated with the UPF information. The UPF transfers the network interaction request to the transfer device group of the external network 12. The transfer device group of the external network 12 transfers a communication control signal for network interaction to the control function unit of the external network 12.

[0120] The control function unit of the external network 12 receives the communication control signal for network cooperation and interprets the received signal (step S212). If necessary, the control function unit of the external network 12 performs user authentication.

[0121] The SMF 100 receives a response regarding the network cooperation setting from the control function unit of the external network 12 (step S213).

[0122] The control function unit of the external network 12 performs communication settings (step S214).

[0123] The SMF 100 waits until the communication settings for the external network 12 are completed (step S215).

[0124] The SMF 100 receives a notification from the control function unit of the external network 12 indicating that the communication setup has been completed (step S216).

[0125] SMF100 continues establishing the 5G session (step S217).

[0126] 5. Other Embodiments In this section, other embodiments are described.

[0127] [5-1. Network-linked communications] In the network cooperation according to the present disclosure, all communications may use a network cooperation path. The UE can specify the execution of network cooperation using DNN or S-NSSAI (Network Slice Selection Assistance Information). In this case, all communications are distributed to the cooperation destination. Network cooperation is performed when the UE communicates with a specific connection destination associated with the user's registration information or specified by the carrier.

[0128] FIG. 13 illustrates another example of network interaction 130 according to the present disclosure.

[0129] In step S131, the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 receives a session establishment request from the terminal (UE). The request includes a DNN and a user identifier.

[0130] In step S132, the control function unit 41 determines whether the association information associated with the DNN and the user identifier is stored in the DB 42.

[0131] If the link information is not stored in the DB 42 (step S132: No), the control function unit 41 establishes a normal session (step S133).

[0132] If the association information is stored in the DB 42 (step S132: Yes), the control function unit 41 of the mobile network 21 and the control function unit 43 of the external network 12 establish a session including a distribution and a path for association (step S134).

[0133] In step S135, the control function unit 41 performs communication from the terminal.

[0134] In step S136, all communications are routed to the server with which the terminal is associated.

[0135] [6. Effects] As described above, the mobile network control device can control E2E communications across the mobile network 21 and the external network 12 (multiple domains). In some implementations, new functions are added to the SMF, which collects information important for communication control. This reduces the effort required for the mobile network control device to collect information required for network interworking. Furthermore, the mobile network control device can achieve network interworking without making major changes to the 3GPP standard for signaling for network interworking.

[0136] [7. Other] A portion of a process described as being performed automatically may be performed manually. Alternatively, all or part of a process described as being performed manually may be performed automatically using known methods. Furthermore, information including the process procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in this specification and drawings may be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0137] The illustrated system and device components conceptually illustrate the functions of the system and device. The components are not necessarily physically configured as shown in the drawings. In other words, the specific form of the distributed or integrated system and device is not limited to the form of the system and device shown in the drawings. All or part of the system and device may be functionally or physically distributed or integrated depending on various loads and usage conditions.

[0138] [8. Hardware Configuration] 14 is a diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration, ie, a computer 1000. The apparatus, system, and method described herein may be implemented, for example, by the computer 1000 shown in FIG.

[0139] 14 shows an example of a computer in which a mobile network control device and an external network control device are implemented by executing a program. The computer 1000 has, for example, a memory 1010 and a CPU 1020. The computer 1000 also has a hard disk drive interface 1030, a disk drive interface 1040, a serial port interface 1050, a video adapter 1060, and a network interface 1070. These components are connected by a bus 1080.

[0140] The memory 1010 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1011 and a RAM 1012. The ROM 1011 stores a boot program such as a BIOS (Basic Input Output System). The hard disk drive interface 1030 is connected to a hard disk drive 1090. The disk drive interface 1040 is connected to a disk drive 1100. A removable storage medium such as a magnetic disk or optical disk is inserted into the disk drive 1100. The serial port interface 1050 is connected to a mouse 1110 and a keyboard 1120, for example. The video adapter 1060 is connected to a display 1130, for example.

[0141] The hard disk drive 1090 stores, for example, an OS 1091, an application program 1092, a program module 1093, and program data 1094. That is, the programs that define the processes of the mobile network control device and the external network control device are implemented as program modules 1093 in which code executable by the computer 1000 is written. The program modules 1093 are stored, for example, in the hard disk drive 1090. For example, the program modules 1093 for executing processes similar to the functional configurations in the mobile network control device and the external network control device are stored in the hard disk drive 1090. Note that the hard disk drive 1090 may be replaced by an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0142] The hard disk drive 1090 can store a communication control program for controlling communication. The communication control program can also be created as a program product that, when executed, performs one or more of the methods described above.

[0143] Furthermore, setting data used in the processing of the above-described embodiment is stored as program data 1094, for example, in memory 1010 or hard disk drive 1090. Then, CPU 1020 reads program module 1093 and program data 1094 stored in memory 1010 or hard disk drive 1090 into RAM 1012 as necessary and executes them.

[0144] The program module 1093 and program data 1094 are not limited to being stored in the hard disk drive 1090, but may also be stored in, for example, a removable storage medium and read by the CPU 1020 via the disk drive 1100 or the like. Alternatively, the program module 1093 and program data 1094 may be stored in another computer connected via a network (LAN, WAN, etc.). The program module 1093 and program data 1094 may then be read by the CPU 1020 from the other computer via the network interface 1070.

[0145] 9. Summary of Embodiments As described above, the control function unit 41 is an example of a request receiving unit, a determination unit, and a transmission unit. In at least one embodiment, the request receiving unit receives a request for communication with a data processing device connected to an external network 12 outside the mobile network 21 from a user terminal that has accessed the mobile network 21. In at least one embodiment, the determination unit determines whether the user of the user terminal is a registered user. In at least one embodiment, the transmission unit transmits information used to establish communication between a communication device in the mobile network 21 and the data processing device to an external network control device that controls the external network 12 if the user of the user terminal is a registered user.

[0146] As described above, the control function unit 41 is an example of a response receiving unit and an establishing unit. In at least one embodiment, the response receiving unit receives a response from the external network control device indicating that communication has been established between the communication device in the external network 12 and the data processing device. In at least one embodiment, the establishing unit establishes communication between the user terminal and the communication device of the mobile network 21 in response to receiving the response from the external network control device.

[0147] As described above, the control function unit 43 is an example of a receiving unit and an establishing unit. In at least one embodiment, the receiving unit receives information from a mobile network control device that controls the mobile network 21, information used to establish communication between a communication device in an external network 12 outside the mobile network 21 and a data processing device connected to the external network 12. In at least one embodiment, the establishing unit establishes communication between the communication device in the external network 12 and the data processing device based on the information received from the mobile network control device.

[0148] In some embodiments, the establishment unit converts information received from the mobile network control device into a format suitable for the external network 12 based on the control policy of the external network 12, and establishes communication between a communication device and a data processing device in the external network 12 based on the converted information.

[0149] Although various embodiments have been described in detail herein with reference to the drawings, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. The features described herein can be realized in various ways, including various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0150] Furthermore, the above-mentioned "module (-er suffix, -or suffix)" can be read as a unit, means, circuit, etc. For example, a communication module, a control module, and a storage module can be read as a communication unit, a control unit, and a storage unit, respectively.

[0151] [Appendix 1 - Glossary] RAN (Radio Access Network): An access section using radio technology in a mobile network. 5G-RG (5G-Residential Gateway) 1 : A consumer router (HGW) that supports the 5G standard. The 5G-RG is equipped with an IF that connects to mobile networks in addition to conventional fixed networks. FN-RG(Fixed Network-Residential Gateway) 1 :Traditional consumer router (HGW). UE (User Equipment): User terminals such as mobile phones. BNG (Broadband Network gateway): An access point for subscribers to connect to a broadband network. AGF (Access Gateway Function) 1 : A function that makes fixed network access such as FN-RG and 5G-RG compatible with 5GC. FMIF (Fixed Mobile Interworking Function): A function that makes communications that have left BNG compatible with 5GC (similar to AGF). DN (Data Network): A network outside the 3GPP-defined network (Internet, data center, etc.). DNN (Data Network Name): Information for specifying the destination DN in mobile communications. APN in LTE. AN (Access Network): A general term for access networks including RAN. AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) 2 : A functional unit that manages terminal connections and movement in the 5G core network. SMF (Session Management Function) 2 : A functional unit that manages sessions in the 5G core network. PCF (Policy Control Function) 2 : A functional unit that manages communication policies and billing information in the 5G core network. UDM (Unified Data Management) 2 : A functional unit that handles the transfer of user information in the 5G core network. UPF (User Plane Function) 2 : A functional unit (router) that operates as a U-plane, performing routing and other functions in the 5G core network. Detailed definitions of the terms in "1" can be found in "TS 23.316 (URL: https: / / www.3gpp.org / ftp / Specs / archive / 23_series / 23.316 / 23316-h10.zip)" and "TR-470 5G Wireless Wireline Convergence Architecture (URL: https: / / www.broadband-forum.org / technical / download / TR-470.pdf)." Detailed definitions of the terms in "2" can be found in "3GPP TS 23.501 V17.2.0 (2021-09) (URL: https: / / www.3gpp.org / ftp / Specs / archive / 23_series / 23.501 / 23501-h20.zip). [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 12 External Network 21 Mobile network 41 Control Function Unit 42 DB 43 Control Function Unit 100 SMF

Claims

1. a request receiving unit that receives, from a user terminal that has accessed a mobile network, a request for communication with a data processing device connected to an external network outside the mobile network; a determination unit that determines whether the user of the user terminal is a registered user; a transmitting unit configured to transmit information used to establish communication between a communication device in the mobile network and the data processing device to an external network control device that controls the external network when the user of the user terminal is a registered user; a response receiving unit that receives, from the external network control device, a response indicating that communication between a communication device in the external network and the data processing device has been established; an establishment unit that establishes communication between the user terminal and a communication device of the mobile network in response to receiving the response from the external network control device; A mobile network control device comprising:

2. 1. A computer-implemented mobile network control method, comprising: a request receiving step of receiving a request for communication with a data processing device connected to an external network outside the mobile network from a user terminal that has accessed the mobile network; a determination step of determining whether the user of the user terminal is a registered user; a transmitting step of transmitting information used to establish communication between a communication device in the mobile network and the data processing device to an external network control device that controls the external network when the user of the user terminal is a registered user; a response receiving step of receiving, from the external network control device, a response indicating that communication between a communication device in the external network and the data processing device has been established; an establishing step of establishing communication between the user terminal and a communication device of the mobile network in response to receiving the response from the external network control device; A mobile network control method including:

3. A mobile network control program for causing a computer to function as the mobile network control device according to claim 1.

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