Method and device for session setup in consideration of plurality of provider networks

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an extended ATSSS service is provided. Therefore, a multi-access connectivity service can be provided through two 3GPP access networks, two non-3GPP access networks, or wireless networks of two different mobile communication providers.

Description

Method and device for establishing a session considering multiple operator networks

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for transmitting data using multiple operator wireless networks for improved user data transmission.

[0002] 5G mobile communication technology defines a wide frequency band to enable fast transmission speeds and new services, and can be implemented not only in the sub-6GHz band, such as 3.5 gigahertz (3.5GHz), but also in the ultra-high frequency band (Above 6GHz), also called millimeter wave (mmWave), such as 28GHz and 39GHz. In addition, for 6G mobile communication technology, which is called the system after 5G communication (Beyond 5G), implementation in the terahertz (THz) band (for example, 3 THz band at 95GHz) is being considered to achieve a transmission speed that is 50 times faster than 5G mobile communication technology and ultra-low latency that is reduced to one-tenth.

[0003] In the early stages of 5G mobile communication technology, the goal is to support services and satisfy performance requirements for ultra-wideband services (eMBB: enhanced Mobile Broadband), ultra-reliable / ultra-low-latency communications (URLLC: Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications), and massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC). These include beamforming and massive MIMO (Massive MIMO) to alleviate path loss of radio waves in ultra-high frequency bands and increase the transmission distance of radio waves, support for various numerologies (such as operation of multiple sub-carrier intervals) and dynamic operation of slot formats for efficient use of ultra-high frequency resources, initial access technology to support multi-beam transmission and wideband, definition and operation of BWP (Bidth Part), new channel coding methods such as LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) codes for large-capacity data transmission and polar codes for reliable transmission of control information, L2 pre-processing, and specific services. Standardization has been progressed for network slicing, which provides specialized, dedicated networks.

[0004] Currently, discussions are underway to improve and enhance the initial 5G mobile communication technology in consideration of the services that 5G mobile communication technology was intended to support, and physical layer standardization is in progress for technologies such as V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) to help autonomous vehicles make driving decisions and increase user convenience based on their own location and status information transmitted by vehicles, NR-U (New Radio Unlicensed) for the purpose of system operation that complies with various regulatory requirements in unlicensed bands, NR terminal low power consumption technology (UE Power Saving), Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), which is direct terminal-satellite communication to secure coverage in areas where communication with terrestrial networks is impossible, and Positioning.

[0005] In addition, standardization of wireless interface architecture / protocols is in progress for technologies such as intelligent factories (IIoT: Industrial Internet of Things) to support new services through linkage and convergence with other industries, Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) to provide nodes for expanding network service areas by integrating wireless backhaul links and access links, Mobility Enhancement technology including Conditional Handover and Dual Active Protocol Stack (DAPS) handover, and 2-step random access (2-step RACH for NR) to simplify random access procedures. Standardization is also in progress for system architecture / services such as 5G baseline architecture (e.g., Service-based Architecture: SBA, Service-based Interface: SBI) for grafting Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies, and Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) that provides services based on the location of the terminal.

[0006] When such 5G mobile communication systems are commercialized, an explosive increase in connected devices will be connected to the communication network, which will require enhanced functions and performance of 5G mobile communication systems and integrated operation of connected devices. To this end, new research will be conducted on improving 5G performance and reducing complexity, supporting AI services, supporting metaverse services, and drone communications by utilizing eXtended Reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) to efficiently support Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR).

[0007] In addition, the development of these 5G mobile communication systems includes new waveforms to ensure coverage in the terahertz band of 6G mobile communication technology, multi-antenna transmission technologies such as Full Dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and large scale antennas, metamaterial-based lenses and antennas to improve the coverage of terahertz band signals, high-dimensional spatial multiplexing technology using Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM), Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) technology, as well as full duplex technology to improve the frequency efficiency and system network of 6G mobile communication technology, satellite, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) from the design stage and internalize end-to-end AI support functions to realize system optimization, and ultra-high-performance communication and computing resources to realize services with complexity that exceeds the limits of terminal computing capabilities. It could serve as a basis for the development of next-generation distributed computing technologies.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a method and device for providing a Multiple Access Connectivity service to a user by using a wireless network operated by multiple mobile communication service providers in a wireless communication system.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method performed by an AMF (visited access and mobility management function) of a VPLMN (visited public land mobile network) is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: receiving, from a terminal, a multi-access protocol data unit (PDU) session establishment request message, wherein the PDU session establishment request message indicates a plurality of PLMNs and indicates MA (multiple-access) to a plurality of 3GPP networks; transmitting, to a V-SMF (visited session management function), a PDU session creation request message, wherein the PDU session creation request message includes an SMF ID of an H-SMF (home SMF), indicates a plurality of PLMNs, and indicates MA (multiple-access) to a plurality of 3GPP networks; And it may include a step of receiving information on MA PDU session establishment from the V-SMF, wherein the plurality of PLMNs include an HPLMN (Home PLMN) and the VPLMN, and the MA PDU session may be established through a PDU session via a 3GPP network of the HPLMN and a PDU session via a 3GPP network of the VPLMN.

[0010] In one embodiment, the VPLMN may be a roaming PLMN or an equivalent PLMN of the HPLMN.

[0011] In one embodiment, the terminal and PSA UPF (PDU session anchor user plane function) include a function for ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, splitting), and the function for ATSSS includes at least one of MPTCP (multipath TCP), MPQUIC (multipath QUIC), or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS low-layer), and the PSA UPF can perform merging of a PDU session generated in the HPLMN and a PDU session generated in the VPLMN.

[0012] In one embodiment, the terminal is of the SSDA (single SIM dual active) or SSDS (single SIM dual standby) type and can access the 3GPP network of the VPLMN and the 3GPP network of the HPLMN through one SIM.

[0013] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method performed by a visited sessions management function (V-SMF) of a visited public land mobile network (VPLMN) is disclosed. The method may include the steps of: receiving a PDU session creation request message from a visited access and mobility management function (AMF), wherein the PDU session creation request message includes an SMF ID of an H-SMF (home SMF) and indicates a plurality of PLMNs and indicates multiple-access (MA) to a plurality of 3GPP networks; selecting a visited user plane function (V-UPF) on the VPLMN; transmitting an establishment request message for an N4 session to the selected V-UPF; receiving a response for establishment of an N4 session from the V-UPF; transmitting information about the V-SMF and tunnel information for communication between the H-SMF and the V-SMF to the H-SMF; and receiving information about an MA PDU session from the H-SMF.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the information about the MA PDU session may include at least one of a QoS rule or an access traffic steering, switching, splitting (ATSS) rule.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the method may further include the steps of: receiving subscriber information from a unified data management (UDM); and determining, based on the subscriber information, whether an MA PDU session can be established for a terminal associated with the PDU session creation request message.

[0016] The disclosed embodiment provides a device and method capable of effectively providing a service in a wireless communication system.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an extended ATSSS service is provided, whereby a Multi-access Connectivity service can be provided via two 3GPP Access networks, two Non-3GPP Access networks, or wireless networks of two different mobile communication operators.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates the structure of a 5G network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates the structure of a 5G network for supporting access traffic steering, switching, splitting (ATSS) service according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a terminal structure including a function for using an ATSSS service according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 4 illustrates an example of providing network connection services to users using two different mobile carrier wireless networks.

[0022] Figure 5 illustrates an example of a wireless modem and SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) type of a terminal.

[0023] Figure 6 illustrates an operation of setting a path based on a URSP Rule for a service data flow when an application is executed on a terminal and a service data flow occurs.

[0024] Figure 7 illustrates the setup of an MA PDU Session using 5G NR Access of HPLMN and VPLMN.

[0025] Figures 8a and 8b illustrate a procedure for requesting MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs setup in HPLMN.

[0026] Figures 9a and 9b illustrate a procedure in which a terminal requests an MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs in a VPLMN.

[0027] Figure 10 illustrates the procedure by which AMF selects H-SMF using V-NRF and H-NRF.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a base station or network entity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. It should be noted that, where possible, identical components are represented by identical reference numerals throughout the attached drawings. Furthermore, detailed descriptions of well-known functions and configurations that may obscure the gist of the present invention will be omitted.

[0031] In describing the embodiments herein, descriptions of technical details that are well known in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains and are not directly related to the present invention will be omitted. This is to avoid obscuring the gist of the present disclosure by omitting unnecessary explanations and to convey the gist more clearly.

[0032] For the same reason, some components in the attached drawings are exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted. Furthermore, the dimensions of each component do not entirely reflect its actual size. Identical or corresponding components in each drawing are assigned the same reference numbers.

[0033] The advantages and features of the present disclosure, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. The embodiments are provided only to ensure that the disclosure of the present disclosure is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0034] At this time, it will be understood that each block of the processing flow diagrams and combinations of the flow diagrams can be performed by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be installed in a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing equipment, so that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing equipment create a means for performing the functions described in the flow diagram block(s). These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-available or computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to implement the functions in a specific manner, so that the instructions stored in the computer-available or computer-readable memory can also produce a manufactured item that includes an instruction means for performing the functions described in the flow diagram block(s). Since the computer program instructions may be installed on a computer or other programmable data processing device, a series of operational steps may be performed on the computer or other programmable data processing device to create a computer-executable process, and the instructions that cause the computer or other programmable data processing device to perform the steps for performing the functions described in the flowchart block(s) may also provide steps for performing the functions described in the flowchart block(s).

[0035] Additionally, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that contains one or more executable instructions for performing a specific logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementation examples, the functions described in the blocks may occur out of order. For example, two blocks depicted in succession may actually be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on their respective functions.

[0036] Here, the term '~ unit' used in the present embodiment means a software or hardware component such as an FPGA or ASIC, and the '~ unit' performs certain roles. However, the '~ unit' is not limited to software or hardware. The '~ unit' may be configured to be on an addressable storage medium and may be configured to play one or more processors. Accordingly, as an example, the '~ unit' includes components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, properties, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functions provided within the components and '~ units' may be combined into a smaller number of components and '~ units' or further separated into additional components and '~ units'. Additionally, components and '~parts' may be implemented to regenerate one or more CPUs within a device or secure multimedia card.

[0037] In this disclosure, phrases such as “A and / or B,” “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as “first,” “second,” or “first” or “second” may be used merely to distinguish the corresponding component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0038] Hereinafter, the base station is an entity that performs resource allocation of a terminal, and may be at least one of a Node B, a BS (Base Station), an eNB (eNode B), a gNB (gNode B), a wireless access unit, a base station controller, or a node on a network. The terminal may include a UE (User Equipment), an MS (Mobile Station), a cellular phone, a smartphone, a computer, or a multimedia system capable of performing a communication function. In addition, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to other communication systems having a similar technical background or channel form to the embodiments of the present disclosure described below. In addition, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to other communication systems through some modifications without significantly departing from the scope of the present disclosure at the discretion of a person having skilled technical knowledge.

[0039] In the present disclosure, network technology may refer to standard specifications defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) or 3GPP (e.g., TS 23.501, TS 23.502, TS 23.503, etc.), and components included in the network structure of Fig. 1 may each mean a physical entity, or may mean software performing an individual function, or hardware combined with software. Reference symbols shown as Nx, such as N1, N2, N3, ... in the drawings, represent known interfaces between NFs in a 5G core network (CN), and since a related description may refer to the standard specification (TS 23.501), a detailed description will be omitted.

[0040] In the following description, terms used to identify connection nodes, terms referring to network entities (NEs) or network functions (NFs), terms referring to messages, terms referring to interfaces between network entities, terms referring to various identification information, etc. are provided as examples for convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms referring to objects having equivalent technical meanings may be used.

[0041] For convenience of explanation, some terms and names defined in the 3rd generation partnership project long-term evolution (3GPP) standards may be used. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these terms and names, and can be equally applied to systems conforming to other standards.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 1 exemplifies the configuration of a 5G system.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 1, a 5G network may include network entities (NE) or network functions (NF) described below.

[0044] (R)AN ((Radio) Access Network) is an entity that performs wireless resource allocation of a terminal, and may be at least one of an eNode B, a Node B, a BS (Base Station), an NG-RAN (Next Generation Radio Access Network), a 5G-AN (5G Access Network), a 5G NR (5G New Radio), a radio access unit, a base station controller, or a node on a network.

[0045] The terminal may include a UE (User Equipment), NG UE (Next Generation UE), MS (Mobile Station), cellular phone, smartphone, computer, IoT (Internet of Things) device, or multimedia system capable of performing communication functions.

[0046] Furthermore, while the embodiments of the present disclosure are described below using a 5G system as an example, the embodiments of the present disclosure can also be applied to other communication systems with similar technical backgrounds. Furthermore, the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to other communication systems with some modifications, as determined by a person skilled in the art, without significantly departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0047] As wireless communication systems evolve from 4G to 5G, a new core network (CN) called the Next Generation Core (NG Core) or 5GC (5G Core Network) is being defined. This new core network virtualizes all existing network entities (NEs) into network functions (NFs). According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a network function may refer to a network entity, a network component, or a network resource.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, 5GC may include NFs as illustrated in FIG. 1. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the example of FIG. 1, and 5GC may include more or fewer NFs than the NFs illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0049] The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) may be a network function that manages the access and mobility of a terminal (UE). For example, AMF may perform network functions such as terminal registration, connection, reachability, mobility management, access verification, authentication, and mobility event generation.

[0050] The Session Management Function (SMF) may be a network function that manages the Packet Data Network (PDN) connection provided to the user equipment (UE). The PDN connection may be referred to as a Packet Data Unit (PDU) Session. For example, the SMF may perform network functions such as session management through the establishment, modification, and release of sessions and the maintenance of tunnels between the UPF and the RAN required for this; user plane (UP) selection and control; traffic processing control in the UPF; and charging data collection control.

[0051] PCF (Policy Control Function) may be a network function that applies the mobile carrier's service policy, charging policy, and PDU Session policy to the terminal.

[0052] Unified Data Management (UDM) can be a network function that stores subscriber information. For example, UDM can perform functions such as generating authentication information for 3GPP security, processing user identifiers (User IDs), managing a list of network functions supporting UEs, and managing subscription information.

[0053] The Network Exposure Function (NEF) may provide information about a terminal to a server outside the 5G network. Additionally, NEF may provide the information necessary for 5G network services and store it in the Unified Data Repository (UDR).

[0054] The User Plane Function (UPF) may function as a gateway that transmits user data (PDU) to the Data Network (DN). More specifically, the UPF may process data so that it can transmit data transmitted by a terminal to an external network or transmit data received from an external network to the terminal. For example, the UPF may perform network functions such as serving as an anchor between Radio Access Technologies (RATs), packet routing and forwarding, packet inspection, user plane policy application, traffic usage report generation, and buffering.

[0055] NRF (Network Repository Function) can store the profiles of NFs and perform the function of discovering NFs.

[0056] AUSF (Authentication Server Function) can perform terminal authentication in 3GPP access networks and non-3GPP access networks.

[0057] NSSF (Network Slice Selection Function) can perform the function of selecting a Network Slice Instance provided to a terminal.

[0058] The Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) collects data from multiple NFs (Network Functions) to ensure efficient operation of the 5GC network. This data is analyzed using a machine learning (ML) model, and the results are provided back to the NFs, enabling them to provide efficient network services.

[0059] An Application Function (AF) can communicate with a network operator to enable external servers (Application Servers) to utilize network services provided by the network operator. Depending on the deployment entity, AFs can be divided into internal AFs and external AFs. Internal AFs deployed by network operators can communicate directly with NFs within the network operator. AFs deployed by third-party service providers (3rd-party service providers) must go through an NEF to communicate with NFs within the network operator.

[0060] DN (Data Network) can be a data network where terminals transmit and receive data to use network operator services or third-party services.

[0061] The terminal may include an IoT device. The IoT device may include a device that does not use battery power or operates with very little power, and such IoT devices are referred to as ambient IoT devices (or simply Ambient IoT).

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a mobile communication service provider can transmit user data using two or more radio networks (Radio Access) to provide users with enhanced network connectivity services (multi-access connectivity services). In particular, the mobile communication service provider can utilize not only its own radio network but also the radio networks of other mobile communication service providers to provide enhanced data transmission services using multiple radio networks. The present disclosure proposes a method and device for providing users with multi-access connectivity services using multiple operator networks.

[0063] FIG. 2 illustrates the structure of a 5G network for supporting access traffic steering, switching, splitting (ATSS) service according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a terminal can transmit user data to a network using two or more wireless networks ((R)AN: (Radio) Access Network). At this time, the (R)AN used by the terminal can be classified into an Access Type and a Radio Access Technology (RAT) Type. The Access Type is classified into 3GPP Access and Non-3GPP Access. Non-3GPP Access can include all wireless connection networks other than 3GPP Access. WLAN (Wireless Local Access Network) is a representative Non-3GPP Access. 3GPP Access can be classified into various types of RAT. Representative 3GPP Access can include 5G NR, E-UTRA (Evolved UTRA), UTRA (Universal Terrestrial Radio Access), etc., and various other 3GPP wireless connection networks can be included.

[0065] Figure 2 illustrates an architecture reference model for ATSSS (Access Traffic Steering, Switching, Splitting) technology defined in the 3GPP Release 18 standard.

[0066] A network can provide multi-access connectivity service to a terminal by using two wireless connection networks (3GPP Access and Non-3GPP Access). For this purpose, the terminal can create a MA PDU Session (Multi-Access PDU Session) that includes two independent N3 / N9 tunnels. Using the MA PDU Session, the terminal can perform traffic steering (a method of selecting one of the two wireless connection networks to transmit service data flow data), traffic switching (a method of switching service data flow data being transmitted using one wireless connection network to another wireless connection network and transmitting it), and traffic splitting (a method of dividing the data of one service data flow and transmitting it using two wireless connection networks simultaneously) operations based on the ATSSS rule.

[0067] In order for a terminal and a UPF to perform steering, switching, or splitting operations on service data flow data using an MA PDU Session, the terminal must include at least one of MPTCP (Multipath TCP (transmission control protocol)) functionality, MPQUIC (Multipath QUIC (quick UDP (user datagram protocol) internet connections)) functionality, or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS Low-Layer) functionality, and the UPF must include at least one of MPTCP Proxy functionality, MPQUIC Proxy functionality, or ATSSS-LL functionality.

[0068] The above-mentioned features can simultaneously transmit data from a single service data flow across two tunnels (i.e., two paths), and merge the data transmitted simultaneously via both paths into a single data flow. By transmitting data via two paths, terminals can expect improved data throughput.

[0069] FIG. 3 illustrates a terminal structure including a function for using an ATSSS service according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] To use the ATSSS service, the terminal may include at least one of the following functions.

[0071] - MPTCP(Multipath TCP) functionality

[0072] - MPQUIC (Multipath QUIC) functionality

[0073] - ATSSS-LL(ATSSS Low-Layer) functionality.

[0074] The terminal can utilize the MPTCP function for service data flows using the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) protocol and the MPQUIC function for service data flows using the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) protocol. Additionally, the terminal can utilize the ATSSS-LL function for all service data flows using the TCP, UDP, or Ethernet protocols.

[0075] Each function can support simultaneous transmission of a single service data flow into two subflows over two wireless networks (Non-3GPP Access and 3GPP Access) to provide multi-access connectivity services to terminals. Each subflow for MPTCP and MPQUIC is assigned a separate IP address. For ATSSS-LL, a single IP address can be used to transmit data across two wireless networks.

[0076] The functions provided by the ATSSS service for each service data flow are determined by the ATSSS Rules. The functions provided by the ATSSS service are as follows: Traffic Steering (a method of selecting one of two wireless connection networks to transmit service data flow data), Traffic Switching (a method of switching service data flow data being transmitted using one wireless connection network to another wireless connection network and transmitting it), and Traffic Splitting (a method of dividing the data of one service data flow into two and transmitting it using two wireless connection networks simultaneously).

[0077] This disclosure proposes a method for extending the Multi-access Connectivity service (i.e., ATSSS service) provided to a terminal using one 3GPP Access network and one Non-3GPP Access network. For example, a terminal can receive Multi-access Connectivity service using two 3GPP Access networks, two Non-3GPP Access networks, or two different mobile communication service providers.

[0078] Figure 4 illustrates an example of providing network connection services to users using two different mobile carrier wireless networks.

[0079] Referring to Figure 4, a terminal uses a network connection service using two different mobile communication service providers' Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs) A and B. At this time, the terminal uses the 3GPP Access network, 5G NR network, and 4G EUTRA network provided by each mobile communication service provider. To transmit data of the terminal's service data flow, the 5G network establishes a PDU Session and the 4G network establishes a PDN Connection. The data transmitted using each 3GPP Access network passes through the UPF and the Packet Data Network Gateway (P-GW) to the PDU Session Anchor (PSA) UPF, which includes the Access Traffic Steering, Switching, and Splitting (ATSS) function. The PSA UPF reassembles the data that was divided using the MPTCP, MPQUIC, or ATSSS-LL function into a single service data flow and transmits it to the Data Network. At this time, each session in 5G and 4G can be included in a single MA PDU Session.

[0080] Extended ATSSS utilizes two 3GPP access networks, offering improved services to terminals compared to the existing ATSSS, which utilizes one 3GPP access network and one non-3GPP access network. This service improvement by Extended ATSSS can be attributed to the fact that non-3GPP access networks primarily use unlicensed bands to transmit data and do not provide Quality of Service (QoS) for improved transmission services.

[0081] Figure 5 illustrates an example of a wireless modem and SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) type of a terminal.

[0082] A terminal may include more than one SIM card, depending on the case. The way dual SIMs are utilized can be classified into DSDA (dual SIM dual active), DSDS (dual SIM dual standby), Dual SIM Single Standby (DSSS), SSDA (single SIM dual active), and SSDS (single SIM dual standby) depending on the form in which the terminal includes the SIM card.

[0083] The DSDA type includes two SIM cards and two 3GPP modems. A DSDA terminal can simultaneously access different mobile carrier networks using the two SIM cards, and simultaneously transmit and receive data across both carrier networks using the two 3GPP modems.

[0084] The DSDS type includes two SIM cards and a 3GPP modem. A DSDS device can connect to different carrier networks simultaneously using both SIM cards. However, because it only has a single 3GPP modem, it cannot transmit and receive data on both carrier networks simultaneously. In this case, the modem automatically connects to the carrier with the data to transmit or receive.

[0085] The DSSS type includes two SIM cards and a 3GPP modem. The difference between DSSS and DSDS terminals is that the user must manually switch between the two subscribed carrier networks. In other words, if a DSSS terminal is transmitting and receiving data on one carrier's network and then wants to use a different carrier's network, the user must manually switch SIM cards to use the other carrier's network.

[0086] The SSDA type includes one SIM card and two 3GPP modems. Because an SSDA terminal has only one SIM card, it can connect to a single subscriber carrier's network. However, because it has two modems, it can transmit and receive data across two carriers' networks. In this case, the terminal can connect to the subscriber's carrier's network and use the HPLMN (Home PLMN) and roaming or equivalent PLMN agreements with additional carriers, enabling simultaneous data transmission and reception across two carriers' wireless networks.

[0087] The SSDS type includes one SIM card and one 3GPP modem. Common user devices fall into this category. These devices can transmit and receive data using one 3GPP access network and one non-3GPP access network, similar to the existing ATSSS method.

[0088] Most of the above types of terminals include a non-3GPP modem. Therefore, in addition to using two 3GPP access wireless networks as in the above case, it is also possible to transmit and receive data using one 3GPP access network and a non-3GPP access network simultaneously as before. Furthermore, for the non-3GPP access network, it is possible to use not only the non-3GPP access network provided by the user's mobile carrier, but also the non-3GPP access network of another mobile carrier, and even the non-3GPP access network installed by the user personally (e.g., a Wi-Fi wireless router).

[0089] As illustrated in Figure 5, terminals can utilize ATSSS functionality using various combinations of wireless networks. Accordingly, the network can configure and provision appropriate URSP rules for each terminal based on each terminal's SIM information, subscriber carrier information, and available wireless network information.

[0090] In one embodiment, when a terminal registers with a network, the terminal may transmit modem information, SIM information, subscriber mobile carrier information, etc. to the network.

[0091] [UE Radio Modem / SIM / MNO (mobile network operator) Information]

[0092] - SSDA (single SIM dual active)

[0093] + (3GPP) Multimode Support

[0094] # 3GPP MODEM I: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD, etc.

[0095] # 3GPP MODEM II: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD, etc.

[0096] + Non-3GPP Radio Support

[0097] # Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 등

[0098] + Subscribed MNO

[0099] # PLMN / (S)NPN A

[0100] - SSDS (single SIM dual standby)

[0101] + (3GPP) Multimode Support

[0102] # 3GPP MODEM I: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD 등

[0103] + Non-3GPP Radio Support

[0104] # Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 등

[0105] + Subscribed MNO

[0106] # PLMN / (S)NPN A

[0107] - DSDA (dual SIM dual active)

[0108] + (3GPP) Multimode Support

[0109] # 3GPP MODEM I: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD 등

[0110] # 3GPP MODEM II: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD 등

[0111] + Non-3GPP Radio Support

[0112] # Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 등

[0113] + Subscribed MNO

[0114] # PLMN / (S)NPN A

[0115] # PLMN / (S)NPN B

[0116] - DSDS (dual SIM dual standby)

[0117] + (3GPP) Multimode Support

[0118] # 3GPP MODEM I: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD, etc.

[0119] + Non-3GPP Radio Support

[0120] # Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.

[0121] + Subscribed MNO

[0122] # PLMN / (S)NPN A

[0123] # PLMN / (S)NPN B

[0124] - DSSS (dual SIM single standby)

[0125] + (3GPP) Multimode Support

[0126] # 3GPP MODEM I: 5G NR, EUTRA, UTRA-FDD, etc.

[0127] + Non-3GPP Radio Support

[0128] # Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.

[0129] + Subscribed MNO

[0130] # PLMN / (S)NPN A

[0131] When registering with a network, a terminal can transmit its [UE Radio Modem / SIM / MNO Information] information to the network. The terminal's wireless modem, SIM, and subscriber carrier information may include additional information beyond the above.

[0132] Figure 6 illustrates an operation of setting a path based on a URSP Rule for a service data flow when an application is executed on a terminal and a service data flow occurs.

[0133] It is assumed that the URSP Rule in Fig. 6 includes ATSSS Mode Selection Components for applying extended ATSSS based on the terminal's Radio Modem, SIM, and MNO-based information.

[0134] In one embodiment of FIG. 6, an extended ATSSS is applied to a newly generated service data flow by the ATSSS Mode Selection Components of the URSP Rule. According to the URSP Rule according to one embodiment, the flow path uses multiple PLMNs, and the PLMN used as the secondary PLMN can be the Roaming Agreement of the HPLMN or the Equivalent PLMN. The USIM uses only one PLMN, and the 3GPP Modem can use both PLMNs. That is, an MA PDU Session using two 3GPP Accesses can be used. The secondary PLMN is a VPLMN, and both 3GPP Accesses can use 5G NR. That is, an extended MA PDU Session can be established using the HPLMN and the 5G NR Access of the Roaming HPLM or the Equivalent HPLM.

[0135] Figure 7 illustrates the setup of an MA PDU Session using 5G NR Access of HPLMN and VPLMN.

[0136] The terminal's two 5G modems can be connected to the HPLMN 5G NR and the VPLMN 5G NR, respectively. PDU sessions can be created for each network. At this time, an Intermediate UPF may be configured in the HPLMN network. The PDU sessions created in the two PLMNs are merged into a single MA PDU session in the HPLMN's PSA UPF, enabling transmission and reception with the data network. In this way, unlike the existing ATSSS, the extended ATSSS can provide users with multi-access connectivity services by utilizing two 3GPP access points.

[0137] Figures 8a and 8b illustrate a procedure for requesting MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs setup in HPLMN.

[0138] In Step 1, the terminal can send a PDU Session Establishment Request message to the network to request the establishment of an MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs. The Request Type of this message can be set to "MA PDU Request" and may include the following information:

[0139] - PLMN / SNPN: multiple

[0140] - Roaming / Equivalent: yes

[0141] - SIM: single

[0142] - 3GPP Modem: Dual

[0143] - PLMN Type: VPLMN

[0144] - Multiple-Access (3GPP): 5G NR

[0145] - VPLMN ID: PLMN B

[0146] In Step 2, if the AMF does not support the MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs feature, it must retransmit the terminal's request to an AMF that does. If the AMF does support this feature, it can decide whether to grant the terminal's request based on the terminal's subscription information (e.g., Access and Mobility Subscription data) received from the UDM. If the AMF grants the terminal's request, it can select an SMF that supports MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs.

[0147] In Step 3, the AMF may send the Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMFContext Request message to the selected SMF. This message may include the “MA PDU Session Request” indication. Additionally, this message may include the following information:

[0148] - PLMN / SNPN: multiple

[0149] - Roaming / Equivalent: yes

[0150] - SIM: single

[0151] - 3GPP Modem: Dual

[0152] - PLMN Type: VPLMN

[0153] - Multiple-Access (3GPP): 5G NR

[0154] - VPLMN ID: PLMN B

[0155] In step 4, the SMF can retrieve subscriber information (e.g., Session Management subscription data) from the UDM and, based on this information, determine whether it is possible to establish a MA PDU Session using multiple 3GPP Access networks.

[0156] In step 5, SMF may send an Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMFContext Response message to AMF. In step 6, authentication / authorization procedures for the PDU session may be performed.

[0157] In step 7a, the SMF may select a PCF, and in step 7b, an SM Policy Association Establishment or an SM Policy Association Modification initiated by the SMF may be performed.

[0158] If dynamic PCC is used in step 7, the SMF may send a “MA PDU Session Request” Indication to the PCF. Additionally, the SMF may send the following information to the PCF along with the ATSSS Capabilities information:

[0159] - PLMN / SNPN: multiple

[0160] - Roaming / Equivalent: yes

[0161] - SIM: single

[0162] - 3GPP Modem: Dual

[0163] - PLMN Type: VPLMN

[0164] - Multiple-Access (3GPP): 5G NR

[0165] - VPLMN ID: PLMN B

[0166] PCF can provide PCC rules containing MA PDU Session control information to SMF.

[0167] In step 8, the SMF can select one UPF or two UPFs, including an intermediate UPF. If the SMF selects one UPF, that UPF can handle MA PDU Sessions. If the SMF selects two UPFs, the intermediate UPF can handle PDU Sessions and the other UPF can handle MA PDU Sessions.

[0168] In step 10, the SMF can send N4 rules for the MA PDU Session to the UPF.

[0169] In step 11, the SMF may send an “MA PDU Session Accepted” Indication to the AMF. The AMF may mark the PDU Session as an MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs.

[0170] In step 13, the terminal may receive a PDU Session Establishment Accept message. This message may include the result of a MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs request. This message may include the ATSSS rule for MA PDU Session and may also include the responsible SMF ID.

[0171] Afterwards, the terminal can transmit uplink data and receive downlink data, and AMF, SMF, and UPF can perform operations such as modification of N4 session, update of PDU session, modification of SM Policy Association, etc.

[0172] Figures 9a and 9b illustrate a procedure in which a terminal requests an MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs in a VPLMN.

[0173] In Step 1, the terminal can send a PDU Session Establishment Request message to the VPLMN network. The Request Type can be set to "MA PDU Session Request." Additionally, the message can include the following information:

[0174] - PLMN / SNPN: multiple

[0175] - Roaming / Equivalent: yes

[0176] - SIM: single

[0177] - 3GPP Modem: Dual

[0178] - PLMN Type: HPLMN

[0179] - Multiple-Access (3GPP): 5G NR

[0180] - HPLMN ID: PLMN A

[0181] In addition, the message may include the PDU Session ID, SMF ID, etc. of the MA PDU Session set by HPLMN.

[0182] In Step 2, if the AMF does not support MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs, it can retransmit the UE's request to an AMF that does. The AMF can select a V-SMF that can support MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs. Additionally, the AMF can select an H-SMF in the HPLMN that is responsible for the MA PDU Session over Multiple PLMNs established by the UE.

[0183] In step 3, the AMF can provide the SMF ID of the H-SMF to the V-SMF.

[0184] In step 4, V-SMF can select UPF from VPLMN.

[0185] In step 5, V-SMF can send an establishment request for an N4 session to the selected UPF and receive a response thereto.

[0186] In step 6, the V-SMF can transmit the following information to the H-SMF:

[0187] - V-SMF SM Context ID, V-SMF ID, V-CN Tunnel Info, AMF ID.

[0188] Steps 8 to 11 can be performed in a similar manner to the operation of FIG. 7 described above.

[0189] In step 13, the H-SMF may send the following information to the V-SMF: QoS Rule(s), H-CN Tunnel Info, ATSSS Rule. It may also include more information.

[0190] In steps 13a-13b, V-SMF can provide N4 rules to UPF.

[0191] The operations of steps 14 to 24 may be performed in the same or similar manner as the existing PDU session related procedures as illustrated in the drawing.

[0192] In FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b, several methods for the AMF to select an H-SMF in the VPLMN can be proposed. Since the terminal can receive the SMF ID via the PDU Session Establishment Accept message from the HPLMN, one method may be for the VPLMN to transmit this to the AMF, allowing the AMF to select an H-SMF. Another method may be for the AMF to use V-NRF and H-NRF to select an H-SMF.

[0193] Figure 10 illustrates the procedure by which AMF selects H-SMF using V-NRF and H-NRF.

[0194] In step 1, V-AMF can send a discovery request to SMF via Nnrf_NFDiscovery_Request message to V-NRF.

[0195] In step 2, the V-NRF can request the “NF Discovery” service by sending the Nnrf_NFDiscovery_Request message to the H-NRF. The message may include the UE’s SUPI and may also include the MA PDU Session ID (HPLMN). The H-NRF can retrieve the SMF ID using its own information or by requesting it from the UDM.

[0196] According to one embodiment of the present invention, as in 3A of FIG. 10, the SMF information retrieved in response to a request for an SMF or UDM discovered by H-NRF itself may be transmitted to V-NRF and V-AMF, but as in 3B of FIG. 10, the H-NRF may also transmit a request for an NF discovery service to another NRF within the HPLMN and receive a response thereto and transmit it to V-NRF.

[0197] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0198] A terminal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a processor (1120) that controls the overall operation of the terminal, a transceiver (1110) including a transmitter and a receiver, and a memory (1130). Of course, the present invention is not limited to the above example, and the terminal may include more or fewer components than those illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0199] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the transceiver (1110) can transmit and receive signals with network entities or other terminals. The signals transmitted and received with the network entities may include control information and data. In addition, the transceiver (1110) can receive signals via a wireless channel, output them to the processor (1120), and transmit the signals output from the processor (1120) via the wireless channel.

[0200] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (1120) can control the terminal to perform any one of the operations of the above-described embodiments. Meanwhile, the processor (1120), the memory (1130), and the transceiver (1110) do not necessarily have to be implemented as separate modules, and of course, they can be implemented as a single component in the form of a single chip. In addition, the processor (1120) and the transceiver (1110) can be electrically connected. In addition, the processor (1120) can be an Application Processor (AP), a Communication Processor (CP), a circuit, an application-specific circuit, or at least one processor.

[0201] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory (1130) can store data such as basic programs, application programs, and setting information for the operation of the terminal. In particular, the memory (1130) provides the stored data upon request of the processor (1120). The memory (1130) may be configured as a storage medium or a combination of storage media such as a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, and a DVD. In addition, there may be a plurality of memories (1130). In addition, the processor (1120) can perform the above-described embodiments based on a program for performing the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure stored in the memory (1130).

[0202] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a base station or network entity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] A network entity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a processor (1220) that controls the overall operation of the network entity, a transceiver (1210) including a transmitter and a receiver, and a memory (1230). Of course, the present invention is not limited to the above example, and the network entity may include more or fewer components than those illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0204] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the transceiver (1210) can transmit and receive signals with at least one of other network entities or terminals. The signals transmitted and received with at least one of the other network entities or terminals may include control information and data.

[0205] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor (1220) can control a network entity to perform any one of the operations described above. Meanwhile, the processor (1220), the memory (1230), and the transceiver (1210) do not necessarily have to be implemented as separate modules, and of course, they can be implemented as a single component in the form of a single chip. In addition, the processor (1220) and the transceiver (1210) can be electrically connected. In addition, the processor (1220) can be an Application Processor (AP), a Communication Processor (CP), a circuit, an application-specific circuit, or at least one processor.

[0206] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory (1230) may store data such as basic programs, application programs, and setting information for the operation of a network entity. In particular, the memory (1230) provides the stored data upon request of the processor (1220). The memory (1230) may be configured as a storage medium or a combination of storage media such as a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, and a DVD. In addition, there may be a plurality of memories (1230). In addition, the processor (1220) may perform the above-described embodiments based on a program for performing the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure stored in the memory (1230).

[0207] It should be noted that the aforementioned configuration diagrams, examples of control / data signal transmission methods, examples of operational procedures, and configuration diagrams are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. That is, not all components, entities, or operational steps described in the embodiments of the present disclosure should be construed as essential components for implementing the disclosure, and implementations may be made within a scope that does not detract from the essence of the disclosure even if only some components are included. Furthermore, each embodiment may be combined and operated as needed. For example, parts of the methods proposed in the present disclosure may be combined to operate network entities and terminals.

[0208] The operations of the base station or terminal described above can be realized by providing a memory device storing the corresponding program code in any component within the base station or terminal device. That is, the control unit of the base station or terminal device can execute the operations described above by reading and executing the program code stored in the memory device using a processor or CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0209] The various components and modules of the entity, base station or terminal device described in this specification may be operated using hardware circuits, such as logic circuits based on complementary metal oxide semiconductors, firmware, software and / or hardware and firmware and / or software embedded in a machine-readable medium. For example, various electrical structures and methods may be implemented using electrical circuits such as transistors, logic gates and application-specific semiconductors.

[0210] When implemented in software, a computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors within an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or specification of the present disclosure.

[0211] These programs (software modules, software) may be stored in random access memory, non-volatile memory including flash memory, read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), magnetic disc storage device, compact disc ROM (CD-ROM), digital versatile discs (DVDs) or other forms of optical storage device, magnetic cassette. Or, they may be stored in a memory configured as a combination of some or all of these. In addition, each configuration memory may be included in multiple numbers.

[0212] Additionally, the program may be stored in an attachable storage device that is accessible via a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide local area network (WLAN), a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure via an external port. Additionally, a separate storage device on the communication network may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, components included in the disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural form, depending on the specific embodiment presented. However, the singular or plural expressions are selected to suit the presented situation for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components. Components expressed in the plural form may be composed of singular elements, or components expressed in the singular form may be composed of plural elements.

[0214] Meanwhile, although specific embodiments have been described in the detailed description of the present disclosure, it is obvious that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be determined not only by the scope of the following claims but also by equivalents of the scope of the claims. In other words, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains that other modifications based on the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure are possible. In addition, each of the above embodiments can be combined and operated with each other as needed. For example, parts of the methods proposed in the present disclosure can be combined with each other to operate a base station and a terminal. In addition, although the above embodiments have been presented based on a 5G, NR system, other modifications based on the technical idea of ​​the above embodiments can be implemented with other systems such as LTE, LTE-A, and LTE-A-Pro systems.

[0215] While the detailed description of this disclosure has described specific embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined not only by the scope of the claims described below, but also by equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A method performed by AMF (visited access and mobility management function) of VPLMN (visited public land mobile network), A step of receiving a PDU (multi access protocol data unit) session establishment request message from a terminal, wherein the PDU session establishment request message indicates a plurality of PLMNs and indicates MA (multiple-access) to a plurality of 3GPP networks; A step of transmitting a PDU session creation request message to a V-SMF (visited session management function), wherein the PDU session creation request message includes an SMF ID of an H-SMF (home SMF), indicates multiple PLMNs, and indicates MA (multiple-access) to multiple 3GPP networks; and A step of receiving information about MA PDU session establishment from the above V-SMF, The above plurality of PLMNs include the HPLMN (Home PLMN) and the VPLMN, A method wherein the above MA PDU session is established through a PDU session via a 3GPP network of the HPLMN and a PDU session via a 3GPP network of the VPLMN.

2. In paragraph 1, A method wherein the above VPLMN is a roaming PLMN or an equivalent PLMN of the HPLMN.

3. In paragraph 1, The above terminal and PSA UPF (PDU session anchor user plane function) include functions for ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, splitting), The above ATSSS functionality includes at least one of MPTCP (multipath TCP), MPQUIC (multipath QUIC), or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS low-layer). A method wherein the above PSA UPF performs merging of a PDU session generated in the HPLMN and a PDU session generated in the VPLMN.

4. In paragraph 1, The above terminal is of SSDA (single SIM dual active) or SSDS (single SIM dual standby) type, and a method for connecting to the 3GPP network of the VPLMN and the 3GPP network of the HPLMN through one SIM.

5. In a method performed by V-SMF (visited sessions management function) of VPLMN (visited public land mobile network), A step of receiving a PDU session creation request message from an AMF (visited access and mobility management function), wherein the PDU session creation request message includes an SMF ID of an H-SMF (home SMF), indicates a plurality of PLMNs, and indicates MA (multiple-access) to a plurality of 3GPP networks; A step of selecting a V-UPF (visited user plane function) on the above VPLMN; A step of transmitting an establishment request message for an N4 session to the selected V-UPF; A step of receiving a response to establishment of an N4 session from the above V-UPF; A step of transmitting information about the V-SMF and tunnel information for communication between the H-SMF and the V-SMF to the H-SMF; and A method comprising the step of receiving information about a MA PDU session from the above H-SMF.

6. In paragraph 5, A method, wherein the information about the MA PDU session includes at least one of a QoS rule or an access traffic steering, switching, splitting (ATSS) rule.

7. In paragraph 5, PSA UPF (PDU session anchor user plane function) includes functions for ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, splitting), The above ATSSS functionality includes at least one of MPTCP (multipath TCP), MPQUIC (multipath QUIC), or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS low-layer). A method wherein the above PSA UPF performs merging of a PDU session generated in the HPLMN and a PDU session generated in the VPLMN.

8. In paragraph 5, A step of receiving subscriber information from UDM (unified data management); and A method further comprising the step of determining whether an MA PDU session can be established for a terminal associated with the PDU session creation request message based on the subscriber information.

9. In the AMF (visited access and mobility management function) of the VPLMN (visited public land mobile network) in a wireless communication system, Transmitter and receiver; and Includes a control unit, The above control unit, Receive a PDU (multi access protocol data unit) session establishment request message from a terminal, -the PDU session establishment request message indicates multiple PLMNs and indicates MA (multiple-access) to multiple 3GPP networks- A PDU session creation request message is transmitted to V-SMF (visited session management function), - the PDU session creation request message includes the SMF ID of H-SMF (home SMF), indicates multiple PLMNs, and indicates MA (multiple-access) to multiple 3GPP networks - It is configured to receive information on MA PDU session establishment from the above V-SMF, The above plurality of PLMNs include the HPLMN (Home PLMN) and the VPLMN, The above MA PDU session is established through a PDU session via the 3GPP network of the HPLMN and a PDU session via the 3GPP network of the VPLMN, AMF.

10. In paragraph 9, The above terminal and PSA UPF (PDU session anchor user plane function) include functions for ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, splitting), The above ATSSS functionality includes at least one of MPTCP (multipath TCP), MPQUIC (multipath QUIC), or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS low-layer). The above PSA UPF performs merging of a PDU session generated in the HPLMN and a PDU session generated in the VPLMN.

11. In paragraph 9, The above terminal is of SSDA (single SIM dual active) or SSDS (single SIM dual standby) type, and connects to the 3GPP network of the VPLMN and the 3GPP network of the HPLMN through one SIM.

12. In the V-SMF (visited sessions management function) of the VPLMN (visited public land mobile network) in a wireless communication system, Transmitter and receiver; and Including a control unit, The above control unit, Receive a PDU session creation request message from an AMF (visited access and mobility management function), -the PDU session creation request message includes an SMF ID of an H-SMF (home SMF), indicates multiple PLMNs, and indicates MA (multiple-access) to multiple 3GPP networks; Select V-UPF (visited user plane function) on the above VPLMN, Send an establishment request message for the N4 session to the selected V-UPF, Receive a response to the establishment of the N4 session from the above V-UPF, Transmitting information about the V-SMF and tunnel information for communication between the H-SMF and the V-SMF to the H-SMF, A V-SMF configured to receive information about a MA PDU session from the above H-SMF.

13. In paragraph 12, Information about the above MA PDU session includes at least one of a QoS rule or an access traffic steering, switching, splitting (ATSS) rule.

14. In paragraph 12, PSA UPF (PDU session anchor user plane function) includes functions for ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, splitting), The above ATSSS functionality includes at least one of MPTCP (multipath TCP), MPQUIC (multipath QUIC), or ATSSS-LL (ATSSS low-layer). The above PSA UPF is a V-SMF that performs merging of a PDU session generated in the HPLMN and a PDU session generated in the VPLMN.

15. In paragraph 12, The above control unit, Receive subscriber information from UDM (unified data management), A V-SMF further configured to determine whether a MA PDU session can be established for a terminal associated with the PDU session creation request message based on the above subscriber information.

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