Method and apparatus for increasing the stability of a wireless communication system

Abstract

One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for improving the stability of a wireless communication system, and an operation method of a User Plane Function (UPF) in a wireless communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a step of receiving NF set-related information to be changed through an association procedure with a Network Function (NF), a step of changing a profile for the NF based on the received NF set-related information, and a step of performing an operation related to the NF based on the changed profile.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for increasing the stability of a wireless communication system. [Background technology]

[0002] To meet the increased demand for wireless data traffic following the commercialization of fourth-generation (4G) communication systems, efforts are underway to develop improved fifth-generation (5G) or pre-5G communication systems. For this reason, 5G or pre-5G communication systems are also referred to as beyond-4G network (Beyond 4G Network) communication systems or post-LTE (post long term evolution) systems.

[0003] To achieve high data transmission rates, 5G communication systems are being considered for implementation in ultra-high frequency (mmWave) bands (e.g., 60 GHz bands). To mitigate radio wave propagation loss in ultra-high frequency bands and extend radio wave transmission distances, beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and large-scale antenna technologies are being discussed for 5G communication systems.

[0004] In addition, to improve the system network, technological developments are being made in the 5G communication system, such as advanced small cells, improved small cells, cloud radio access network (RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communications, wireless backhaul, moving networks, cooperative communications, coordinated multi-points (CoMP), and receiver interference cancellation.

[0005] Other advanced coding modulation (ACM) technologies being developed for 5G include Hybrid Frequency Shift Keying and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (FQAM) and Sliding Window Superposition Coding (SWSC), as well as advanced access technologies such as Filter Bank Multi Carrier (FBMC), Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA), and Sparse Code Multiple Access (SCMA).

[0006] Meanwhile, the Internet is evolving from a human-centric network where humans generate and consume information to an Internet of Things (IoT) network where information is exchanged and processed among distributed components such as things. IoE (Internet of Everything) technology has also emerged, combining big data processing technology via cloud server connections with IoT technology. To realize IoT, technological elements such as sensing technology, wired and wireless communication and network infrastructure, service interface technology, and security technology are required. In recent years, research has focused on sensor networks, M2M (Machine to Machine), and MTC (Machine Type Communication) technologies for connecting things. In an IoT environment, intelligent IT (Internet Technology) services can be provided that collect and analyze data generated by connected things and create new value for human life. Through the integration and integration of existing IT (information technology) with various industries, IoT can be applied to areas such as smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart cars or connected cars, smart grids, healthcare, smart home appliances, and advanced medical services.

[0007] Accordingly, various attempts are being made to apply 5G communication systems to IoT networks. For example, technologies such as sensor networks, M2M, and MTC are being implemented using 5G communication technologies, such as beamforming, MIMO, and array antennas. The application of Cloud RAN as the aforementioned big data processing technology is also an example of the fusion of 5G and IoT technologies.

[0008] With the development of various IT technologies, communication equipment is being virtualized to evolve into virtualized network functions (NFs, hereafter referred to as "network elements"). Virtualized NFs are embodied in software, free from physical constraints, and are installed and operated in various types of clouds and data centers (DCs). In particular, NFs can be freely expanded or contracted, or initiated or terminated, depending on service requirements, system capacity, and network load. Even though such NFs are embodied in software, they must still be operated on a physical configuration, such as a specific piece of equipment, so it should be noted that this does not preclude a physical configuration. NFs can also be implemented in a simple physical configuration, i.e., hardware only.

[0009] To support diverse services in such diverse network structures, network slicing technology has been introduced. Network slicing is a technology that logically configures a network with a collection of network functions (NFs) to support specific services and separates them from other slices. A single device can access two or more slices to receive diverse services. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for increasing the stability of a wireless communication system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] An operation method of a UPF (User Plane Function) in a wireless communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention also includes the steps of receiving NF set-related information to be changed through an association procedure with an NF (Network Function), changing a profile for the NF based on the received NF set-related information, and performing an operation related to the NF based on the changed profile.

[0012] A UPF (User Plane Function) of a wireless communication system according to another embodiment of the present invention also includes a communication unit, a memory, and a processor that receives NF (Network Function) set-related information that is changed through an association procedure with an NF, changes a profile for the NF based on the received NF set-related information, and controls to perform an operation related to the NF based on the changed profile. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the stability of a wireless communication system can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a wireless communication system according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing a connection relationship between an SMF and a UPF according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 10 is a diagram showing network operation when SMF set information is changed according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing network operation using an SMF Set according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram showing network operation using an SMF Set according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram showing network operation using an SMF Set according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a UPF according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of an NF according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a device diagram showing the configuration of an NF according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The terms used in the present invention are merely used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field described in the present invention. Terms used in the present invention that are defined in a general dictionary may be interpreted as meaning the same as or similar to the meaning they have in the context of the related art, and unless explicitly defined in the present invention, they should not be interpreted as idealized or overly formal. In some cases, even terms defined in the present invention should not be interpreted to exclude embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] In the various embodiments of the present invention described below, a hardware-based access method will be described as an example, but since the various embodiments of the present invention include techniques using both hardware and software, the various embodiments of the present invention do not exclude software-based access methods.

[0017] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that in the accompanying drawings, identical components are denoted by the same reference numerals whenever possible. Furthermore, detailed descriptions of well-known functions and configurations that may obscure the gist of the present invention will be omitted.

[0018] In describing the embodiments in this specification, description of content that is widely known in the technical field to which the present invention pertains and that is not directly related to the present invention will be omitted in order to more clearly convey the gist of the present invention by omitting unnecessary description.

[0019] For the same reasons, in the accompanying drawings, some components are exaggerated, omitted, or illustrated schematically, and the size of each component does not entirely reflect the actual size. In each drawing, the same or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals.

[0020] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the following detailed description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, and may be embodied in various different forms. The present embodiments are provided solely to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. The present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

[0021] It will be understood that each block of the process flowchart and combinations of flowcharts are implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be loaded into a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that the instructions, executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device, create means for performing the functions described in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions can also be stored in computer-usable or computer-readable memory that can direct the computer or other programmable data processing device to implement the functions in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-usable or computer-readable memory can produce an article of manufacture containing instruction means for performing the functions described in the flowchart blocks. Computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device, such that a series of operational steps are performed on the computer or other programmable data processing device to create a computer-implemented process, and the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable data processing device can provide steps for performing the functions described in the flowchart blocks.

[0022] Also, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing a specified logical function. Also, it should be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions described in the blocks may occur out of order. For example, two blocks shown in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be performed in reverse order depending on the corresponding functions.

[0023] In this embodiment, the term "module" refers to software or a hardware component such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit), and the "module" performs a certain function. However, the term "module" is not limited to software or hardware. The "module" may be configured to reside on an addressable recording medium or to execute one or more processors. Thus, by way of example, the "module" includes components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, program code segments, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The components and functions provided by the "modules" may be combined into fewer components and "modules" or further separated into additional components and "modules." Furthermore, the components and "modules" may be embodied to execute one or more CPUs within a device or a secure multimedia card.

[0024] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for supporting various services in a wireless communication system. Specifically, the present invention describes a technique for supporting various services by supporting terminal mobility in a wireless communication system.

[0025] Hereinafter, terms for identifying connection nodes, terms for designating network entities or NFs (network functions), terms for designating messages, terms for designating interfaces between network entities, terms for designating various identification information, etc. are provided as examples for the convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms for designating objects having equivalent technical meanings may be used.

[0026] For the sake of convenience, the present invention will use terms and names defined in the 3GPP (registered trademark) LTE (3rd generation partnership project long term evolution) and 5G standards. However, the present invention is not limited to these terms and names and can be similarly applied to systems based on other standards.

[0027] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, entities exchanging information for connection control and state management will be collectively referred to as NFs. NFs are, for example, at least one of an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) device, a Session Management Function (SMF) device, and a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) device. However, embodiments of the present invention are equally applicable when NFs are actually embodied as instances (e.g., AMF instance, SMF instance, NSSF instance, etc.).

[0028] In the present invention, an instance may refer to a specific NF that exists in the form of software code and is executable by being allocated physical or / and logical resources from a physical computing system, for example, a specific computing system present on a core network, to perform the functions of the NF. Therefore, all NF instances, such as AMF instances and SMF instances, mean that they are allocated and usable physical or / and logical resources for NF operation from a specific computing system present on the core network. As a result, when a physical NF device such as an AMF or SMF exists, an NF instance that is allocated and uses physical or / and logical resources for NF operation from a specific computing system present on the network can perform the same operation.

[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a wireless communication system in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

[0030] 1, a radio access node (RAN) 110 and a user equipment (UE) 120 are shown as some of the nodes that use radio channels in a wireless communication system. While only one RAN 110 and one UE 120 are shown in FIG. 1, other RANs that are the same as or similar to the RAN 110 may also be included. Furthermore, FIG. 1 illustrates only a case where one RAN 110 communicates with one UE 120. However, it goes without saying that in practice, one RAN 110 can communicate with multiple UEs.

[0031] The RAN 110 includes a network infrastructure that provides wireless access to the UE 120. The RAN 110 may have coverage, which is defined as a certain geographical area based on the distance over which signals can be transmitted. The RAN 110 may also be referred to as a base station, an access point (AP), an eNodeB (eNB), a gNodeB (gNB), a 5G node, a radio point, a transmission / reception point (TRP), or other terms having equivalent technical meanings.

[0032] The UE 120 is a device used by a user and communicates with the RAN 110 via a wireless channel. In some cases, the UE 120 may operate without the user's involvement. For example, the UE 120 is a device that performs machine-type communication (MTC) and is not carried by the user. The UE 120 shown in FIG. 1 includes at least one user-carried device and may also include at least one MTC. The UE 120 in FIG. 1 may also be referred to as a "terminal," "mobile station," "subscriber station," "remote terminal," "wireless terminal," "user equipment," "user device," or other terms having equivalent technical meanings.

[0033] The AMF 131 includes a network entity that manages wireless network access and mobility for the UE 120. The SMF 132 is a network entity that manages connection to a packet data network to provide packet data to the UE 120. The UE 120 and the SMF 132 may be connected via a packet data unit (PDU) session.

[0034] The UPF (User Plane Function) 133 may act as a gateway or gateway for transmitting packets transmitted and received by the UE 120. The UPF 133 is connected to a data network (DN) 140 connected to the Internet, and may provide a path for data transmission and reception between the UE 120 and the DN 140. Therefore, the UPF 133 may route data to be transmitted to the Internet among packets transmitted by the UE 120 to the Internet data network.

[0035] The NSSF (Network Slice Selection Function) 134 is a network entity that performs the network selection operation described in the present invention, for example, the operation of selecting a network slice. The operation of the NSSF 134 will be described in more detail in the following drawings.

[0036] An AUSF (Authentication Server Function) 151 can provide services for subscriber authentication processing.

[0037] The NEF (Network Exposure Function) 152 can access information that manages the UE 120 in the 5G network, and can subscribe to mobility management events for the UE, subscribe to session management events for the UE, request session-related information, set charging information for the UE, request a PDU session policy change for the UE, and transmit small data to the UE.

[0038] The NRF (Network Repository Function) 153 stores the state information of the NFs and can process requests from other NFs to find connectable NFs.

[0039] A PCF (Policy and Charging Function) 154 can apply the service policy, charging policy, and policy for PDU sessions of a mobile communication operator to the UE 120.

[0040] A Unified Data Management (UDM) 155 may store information for subscribers and / or UEs 120 .

[0041] The AF (Application Function) 156 can provide services to users in conjunction with a mobile communication network.

[0042] The SCP (Service Communication Proxy) 157 can provide functions such as NF discovery for communication between NFs and message transmission between NFs. The SCP 157 can operate in a form integrated with the NRF 153 at the operator's discretion. In this case, the SCP 157 may include the functions of the NRF 153, or the NRF 153 may include the functions of the SCP 157.

[0043] For convenience of explanation, the entities exchanging information for connection control and state management will be collectively referred to as NFs. NFs are, for example, one of NF devices such as AMF, SMF, and NSSF. The embodiments of the present invention are also applicable to cases where NFs are actually embodied as instances (e.g., AMF instance, SMF instance, and NSSF instance).

[0044] This is an essential function for a network to quickly deal with various situations that occur during actual operation of NFs and to recover without affecting services when a problem occurs. In this invention, a collection of NFs that provide the same functions / services is defined as an NF set, and a method is presented that can adaptively deal with changes in the network situation (new NF creation, termination of existing NFs, NF failure, etc.). In this invention, NF services provided by a specific NF and NF service sets that are collections of equivalent NF services are not specified, but the main gist of this invention is equally applicable to not only NF sets but also NF service sets.

[0045] In one embodiment, such a set of NFs is mapped to a UPF and N:M (N≧1, M≧1) on the network. The NFs also include control plane entities such as AMFs and SMFs.

[0046] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a connection relationship between an SMF and a UPF according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] In Figure 2, an SMF will be described as an example of an NF. Figure 2 shows two SMF sets (set #1 210 and set #2 220), where SMF set #1 210 includes N SMF instances 211, 212, and 21N, and SMF set #2 220 includes M SMF instances 221, 222, and 22N. In Figure 2, two UPFs (UPF #A 230 and UPF #B 240) are linked with the SMF instances of SMF set #1 210, SMF set #2 220, and set #1 210, respectively. In other words, the SMF sets and UPFs can be freely connected to each other.

[0048] Depending on the network status and operational needs, the configuration of the SMF set, the instances contained in the SMF set, and the connection relationship with the UPF can all be dynamically and freely changed. If an SMF set in a network is changed, it can be broadly divided into two cases. The first case is when a new SMF set in the network is created, a set is deleted, or set information (such as set ID) is changed. The second case is when the set information of a specific SMF instance is changed. Set information changes include adding, deleting, and updating SMF instances.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a network operation when set information of a specific SMF is changed according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] When the set configuration of the SMF 310 is changed, in one embodiment of the present invention, the SMF 310 can transmit the changed information to other NFs (e.g., the AMF 330) via the NRF 320. That is, the SMF 310 can notify the NRF 320 of its changed set information. This procedure is performed by registering a new NF profile including the set information of the SMF 310 or by modifying / updating an existing NF profile. The NRF 320 can notify other NFs of the changed SMF information. In one embodiment, if the UPF 340 is connected to the NRF 320, it can receive the notification. However, if the UPF 340 is not connected to the NRF 320, it is difficult for the UPF 340 to receive the notification.

[0051] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a network operation using a set of SMFs according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] In step 410, SMF 402 can change set information (including set ID) through an instruction from OAM (operations, administration, and maintenance) 401. Such an OAM 401 instruction is performed automatically when an operator inputs a command or when a specific condition is satisfied. When OAM 401 and SMF 402 are separated from each other, OAM 401 can transmit a message including configuration information for such an OAM 401 instruction to SMF 402 and receive a response.

[0053] In step 420, the new SMF set information (including the set ID) is configured in the SMF 402.

[0054] In step 430, the SMF 402 transmits an association setup request message to the UPF 403 to create a Packet Forwarding Control Protocol (N4) association in order to transfer SMF set information to the UPF 403. If the SMF 402 needs to limit or select a target UPF 403 that will operate according to the configured SMF set, the SMF 402 can perform an operation to select a target UPF 403. For this purpose, the SMF 402 can use information such as an SMF set ID, a slice ID (single-network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI)), and a data network name (DNN). If the SMF 402 already has an N4 (PCFP) association with the target UPF 403 and the existing association is no longer valid due to an SMF set change, the SMF 402 can send a request to the UPF 403 to terminate the existing association and receive a termination response before sending an association setup request message to create a new association. The association setup request message to create a new association includes new SMF set information, particularly the set ID. The information transmitted by the SMF 402 also includes a timer value, which is used to notify the requesting SMF 402 when it will start operating with the new SMF set ID.

[0055] In step 440, the UPF 403 acquires SMF set information via a message received from the SMF 402 and stores it as information of the SMF 402, and in particular, may acquire and store an SMF set ID. The UPF 403 may store and use the acquired information on an SMF basis (i.e., on an SMF instance basis) or on an N4 (PFCP) association basis currently being processed. If a timer value is included in the received message, the UPF 403 starts the timer based on the timer value and determines that the SMF 402 will operate a new set after the timer expires.

[0056] In step 450, the UPF 403 creates an N4 (PCFP) association via the message received from the SMF 402 and transmits an association setup response message in response thereto.

[0057] In step 460, UPF 403 performs operations using the stored SMF set information. That is, if two or more SMF instances belong to the SMF set, UPF 403 can perform operational operations, session processing request / notification, and failure recovery processes using the SMF set. More specifically, if a transaction with a specific SMF set is required, UPF 403 can select and process one available SMF instance from the SMF set. Alternatively, if the SMF instance does not respond or cannot transmit a request due to a failure or overload for a transaction to be processed with the specific SMF instance, and another SMF instance must be selected, UPF 403 can select another SMF instance using the SMF set ID of the SMF instance.

[0058] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a network operation using a set of SMFs according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] In step 510, SMF 502 can change set information (including set ID) through an instruction from OAM 501. Such an OAM 501 instruction is performed by an operator command input or a function configured to be automatically performed when specific conditions are met. When OAM 501 and SMF 502 are separated from each other, OAM 501 can transmit a message including configuration information for such an OAM 501 instruction to SMF 502 and receive a response.

[0060] In step 520, the new SMF set information (including the set ID) is configured in the SMF 502.

[0061] In step 530, the UPF 503 transmits an association setup request message to the SMF 502 to create an N4 (PFCP) association under any condition. The transmission conditions include when a new UPF is created, when the UPF 503 is restarted, when it recognizes that the SMF configuration has changed, or when it recognizes that an existing N4 (PCFP) association between the SMF instance has been released and a new association is required. The UPF 503 may include service information (such as a slice identifier and a DNN) that it supports in the association setup request message.

[0062] In step 540, the SMF 502 transmits an association setup response message to the UPF 503, and the association setup response message includes SMF set information (including the SMF set ID). At this time, if the SMF 502 needs to select an SMF set to include in the association setup response message (i.e., if the SMF instance supports two or more sets), the SMF 502 can use information such as the slice ID (S-NSSAI) and DNN. If the SMF 502 already has an N4 (PCFP) association with the target UPF 503 and the existing association is no longer valid due to the SMF set change, the SMF 502 can transmit a request to release the existing association to the UPF 503 before transmitting an association setup response message to create a new association, and can receive a release response in response to the request. The association setup response message for creating a new association includes new SMF set information, in particular the set ID. The set information in the response message conveyed by the SMF 502 also includes a timer value, which is used to inform the UPF 503 when the SMF 502 transmitting the response should start operating with the new SMF set ID.

[0063] Table 1 shows a message format for including and transmitting the SMF set ID in the N4 (PFCP) association setup response message. Such information can be transmitted in a message along with the ID of the NF transmitting the message and information indicating the reason for transmission.

[0064] [Table 1] In step 550, UPF 503 acquires set information of SMF 502 through a message received from SMF 502 and stores it as information of the SMF, and in particular, may acquire and store an SMF set ID. UPF 503 may store and use the acquired information on an SMF basis (i.e., on an SMF instance basis) or on an N4 (PFCP) association basis currently being processed. If a timer value is included in the received message, UPF 503 starts a timer based on the timer value and determines that the SMF 502 will operate a new set after the timer expires.

[0065] In step 560, UPF 503 performs operations using the stored SMF set information. That is, if two or more SMF instances belong to the SMF set, UPF 503 can perform operational operations, session processing request / notification, and failure recovery processes using the SMF set. More specifically, if a transaction with a specific SMF set is required, UPF 503 can select and process one available SMF instance from the SMF set. Alternatively, if the SMF instance does not respond or cannot transmit a request due to a failure or overload for a transaction to be processed with the specific SMF instance, and another SMF instance must be selected, UPF 503 can select another SMF instance using the SMF set ID of the SMF instance.

[0066] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a network operation using a set of SMFs according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] In step 610, the SMF 602 and the UPF 603 have established an N4 (PFCP) association with each other and are in operation.

[0068] In step 620, the SMF 602 can change the set information (including the set ID) through an instruction from the OAM 601. Such an instruction from the OAM 601 is performed by an operator command input or a function configured to be performed automatically when specific conditions are met. When the OAM 601 and the SMF 602 are separated from each other, the OAM 601 can transmit a message including the setting information for this to the SMF 602 and receive a response.

[0069] In step 630, new SMF set information (including the set ID) is configured in the SMF 602. The SMF 602 then determines that the N4 (PCFP) association established with the existing UPF 603 needs to be updated. If the SMF 602 needs to limit or select a target UPF 603 for updating the N4 association based on the SMF set configured by itself, the SMF 602 can perform an operation to select the target UPF 603. For this purpose, the SMF 602 can use information such as the SMF set ID, slice ID (S-NSSAI), and DNN.

[0070] In step 640, the SMF 602 transmits an N4 (PFCP) Association Update Request message to the UPF 603 to update the SMF set information to the UPF 603. The Association Update Request message includes new SMF set information, in particular, a set ID. The information transmitted by the SMF 602 also includes a timer value, which is used to notify the requesting SMF 602 when it will start operating with the new SMF set ID.

[0071] Table 2 shows a message format for including and transmitting the SMF set ID in the N4 (PFCP) Association Update Request message. Such information can be transmitted in a message along with the ID of the NF transmitting the message and information indicating the reason for transmission.

[0072] [Table 2] In step 650, the UPF 603 acquires set information of the SMF 602 via a message received from the SMF 602, updates it as information of the SMF 602, and in particular, acquires and stores an SMF set ID. The UPF 603 may store and use the acquired information on an SMF basis (i.e., on an SMF instance basis) or on an N4 (PFCP) association basis currently being processed. If a timer value is included in the received message, the UPF 603 starts the timer and determines that the SMF 602 will operate the new set after the timer expires.

[0073] In step 660, the UPF 603 updates the N4 (PCFP) association via the message received from the SMF 602 and transmits a response thereto.

[0074] In step 670, the UPF 603 performs operations using the stored SMF set information. That is, if two or more SMF instances belong to the SMF set, the UPF 603 can perform operational operations, session processing request / notification, and failure recovery processes using the SMF set. More specifically, if a transaction with a specific SMF set is required, the UPF 603 can select and process one available SMF instance from the SMF set. Alternatively, if the SMF instance does not respond or cannot transmit a request due to a failure or overload for a transaction to be processed with the specific SMF instance, and another SMF instance must be selected, the UPF 603 can select another SMF instance using the SMF set ID of the SMF instance.

[0075] While the above description has been given using the case where the SMF 602 triggers the N4 (PFCP) association update process, this also applies similarly to the case where the UPF 603 initiates the N4 (PFCP) association update process. In this case, the UPF 603 transmits an update request to the SMF 602, and if the SMF 602 determines that the set information for the UPF 603 needs to be updated, it can insert and transmit the changed set information (including the set ID) in an update response message. The UPF's operation using this is the same.

[0076] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the UPF according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 7, in step 710, the UPF may receive NF set-related information that is changed through an association procedure with the NF.

[0078] In one embodiment, the UPF may receive an association request from the NF including information related to the NF set to be changed, transmit an association response to the association request to the NF, and receive the information related to the NF set to be changed. The UPF may also transmit an association request to the NF, receive an association response to the association request from the NF including information related to the NF set to be changed, and receive the information related to the NF set to be changed. Furthermore, if the UPF has already performed an association procedure with the NF, it may receive an association update request from the NF including information related to the NF set to be changed, transmit an association update response to the association update request to the NF, and receive the information related to the NF set to be changed.

[0079] In one embodiment, the instruction information for instructing a change of the NF set also includes an NF set ID. Further, the NF set-related information may further include a timer value for the NF to operate in the changed NF set.

[0080] In one embodiment, NF also includes SMF, AMF, and the like.

[0081] In step 720, the UPF may change the profile for the NF based on the received NF set-related information. The UPF may acquire NF set information from the NF and store it as information of the NF. In particular, the UPF may acquire and store an NF set ID. The UPF may store and use the acquired information on an NF basis (i.e., on an NF instance basis) or on a currently processed N4 (PFCP) association basis.

[0082] In step 730, the UPF may perform an action related to the NF based on the changed profile. In one embodiment, the UPF may perform an action such as session processing, notification, or fault recovery. Furthermore, if the NF set-related information includes a timer value for the NF to operate in the changed NF set, the UPF may start a timer based on the timer value, and after the timer expires, perform an action related to the NF.

[0083] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the NF according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] 8, the NF may change to a new NF set in step 810. In one embodiment, the NF may change the set information by configuration or by instruction from the OAM.

[0085] In step 820, the NF may transmit NF set-related information to be changed through an association procedure with the UPF. In one embodiment, the NF may transmit an association request including NF set-related information to be changed to the UPF, receive an association response to the association request from the UPF, and transmit the NF set-related information to be changed. Alternatively, the NF may receive an association request from the UPF, transmit an association response to the association request including NF set-related information to be changed to the NF, and transmit the NF set-related information to be changed. Furthermore, if the association procedure with the UPF has already been performed, the NF may transmit an association update request to the UPF including NF set-related information to be changed, receive an association update response to the association update request from the UPF, and transmit the NF set-related information to be changed.

[0086] In one embodiment, the instruction information for instructing a change of the NF set also includes an NF set ID. Further, the NF set-related information may further include a timer value for the NF to operate in the changed NF set.

[0087] In step 830, the NF may perform operations related to the UPF based on the changed profile. The NF may perform operations such as session processing, notification, or fault recovery.

[0088] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a network entity according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 9, the network entity of the present invention also includes a transceiver 910, a memory 920, and a processor 930. The processor 930, the transceiver 910, and the memory 920 of the network entity can operate according to the above-described network entity communication method. However, the components of the network entity are not limited to the above examples. For example, the network entity may include more or fewer components than the above-described components. Furthermore, the processor 930, the transceiver 910, and the memory 920 may be embodied in the form of a single chip. The processor 930 may also include at least one processor.

[0090] In one embodiment, the network entities include the AMF 131, UPF 133, NSSF 134, AUSF 151, NEF 152, PCF 154, UDM 155, AF 156, SCP 157, etc., which are described in Figure 1. However, this is only an example, and the network entities may include a variety of entities.

[0091] The transceiver 910, which is a collective term for a receiver of a network entity and a transmitter of a network entity, can transmit and receive signals to and from a base station. The signals transmitted and received to and from the base station include control information and data. To this end, the transceiver 910 includes an RF transmitter that up-converts and amplifies the frequency of a transmitted signal, and an RF receiver that low-noise amplifies and down-converts the frequency of a received signal. However, this is merely an example of the transceiver 910, and the components of the transceiver 910 are not limited to an RF transmitter and an RF receiver.

[0092] In addition, the transceiver 910 can receive a signal via a wireless channel, output the signal to the processor 930, and transmit the signal output from the processor 930 via a wireless channel.

[0093] The memory 920 may store programs and data necessary for the operation of the network entity. The memory 920 may also store control information or data included in signals acquired by the network entity. The memory 920 may be configured with a recording medium, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a compact disc (CD)-ROM, or a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a combination of such recording media.

[0094] The processor 930 may control a series of processes to cause the network entity to operate according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention. For example, the processor 930 may receive control signals and data signals via the transceiver 910, process the received control signals and data signals, and transmit the processed control signals and data signals via the transceiver 910.

[0095] The methods according to the embodiments claimed or described in the specification of the present invention may be embodied in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0096] When embodied in software, a computer-readable recording medium storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs stored in the computer-readable recording medium are configured to be executable by one or more processors in an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute a method according to an embodiment described in the claims or specification of the present invention.

[0097] Such programs (software modules, software) may be stored in non-volatile memory, including RAM and flash memory, ROM, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), magnetic disk storage devices, CD-ROM, DVD or other forms of optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes, or in memory configured as a combination of some or all of these. Also, each type of memory may be included in multiple instances.

[0098] The program may also be stored in an attachable storage device accessible via a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device that performs an embodiment of the present invention via an external port. Alternatively, a separate storage device on the communication network may be connected to a device that performs an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] In the specific embodiments of the present invention described above, elements included in the invention are expressed in singular or plural form according to the specific embodiments presented. However, the expressions singular or plural are selected appropriately for the convenience of explanation in the presented situation, and the present invention is not limited to singular or plural elements. Elements expressed in plural form can also be configured in singular form, and elements expressed in singular form can also be configured in plural form.

[0100] While specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present invention, it goes without saying that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be determined by the following claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 910 Transmitter / Receiver 920 memory 930 processor

Claims

1. In a method for operating a UPF (User Plane Function) in a wireless communication system, transmitting a packet forwarding control protocol (PFCP) association setup request to a session management function (SMF); receiving a PFCP association setup response from the SMF, the PFCP association setup response including an SMF set identification (ID) in response to the PFCP connection setup request; and performing an action associated with the SMF and a PFCP session based on the SMF set identifier.

2. The step of transmitting the PFCP connection establishment request to the SMF includes: identifying a condition for transmitting the PFCP connection setup request; The method of claim 1 , wherein the condition includes at least one of a UPF creation, a UPF restart, a configuration change related to the SMF, and a release of an existing PFCP connection.

3. sending a PFCP association update request to the SMF; The method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, from the SMF, a PFCP association update response to the PFCP association update request.

4. receiving a PFCP association update request from the SMF, the PFCP association update request including a changed SMF set identifier; The method of claim 1 , further comprising: transmitting a PFCP association update response to the PFCP association update request to the SMF.

5. comprising a step of identifying whether an existing PFCP connection with the SMF is valid; If the existing PFCP connection with the SMF is not valid, transmitting a PFCP association release request to the SMF; The method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving a PFCP association release response from the SMF.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising a step of selecting an SMF instance included in the SMF set based on the SMF set identifier.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the SMF instance of the SMF set identifier is determined based on at least one of slice information of the SMF instance and a network name of the SMF instance.

8. In a UPF (User Plane Function) of a wireless communication system, The Communications Department and Memory and A packet forwarding control protocol (PFCP) association setup request is sent to the session management function (SMF), receiving a PFCP connection setup response from the SMF, the PFCP connection setup response including an SMF set identification (ID) in response to the PFCP connection setup request; a processor that controls to perform an operation related to the SMF and a PFCP session based on the SMF set identifier.

9. The processor: Identifying a condition for transmitting the PFCP connection setup request; The UPF of claim 8, wherein the condition includes at least one of a UPF creation, a UPF restart, a setting change related to the SMF, and a release of an existing PFCP connection.

10. The processor: Send a PFCP association update request to the SMF; The UPF of claim 8, further comprising: controlling to receive a PFCP association update response to the PFCP association update request from the SMF.

11. The processor: receiving a PFCP association update request from the SMF, the PFCP association update request including a changed SMF set identifier; The UPF of claim 8, further comprising: controlling to transmit a PFCP association update response to the PFCP association update request to the SMF.

12. The processor: Identifying whether an existing PFCP connection with the SMF is valid; If the existing PFCP connection with the SMF is not valid, Send a PFCP association release request to the SMF; The UPF of claim 8, wherein the UPF receives a PFCP association release response from the SMF.

13. The processor: The UPF of claim 8 , wherein the processor selects an SMF instance included in an SMF set based on the SMF set identifier.

14. The UPF of claim 8, wherein the SMF instance of the SMF set identifier is determined based on at least one of slice information of the SMF instance and a network name of the SMF instance.

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