5G Multicast Network Functions for Flexible Broadcast Delivery

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems lack an efficient method to transmit identical data to multiple terminals in a specific area through multicast/broadcast, particularly for services like TV/audio, V2X, and massive CIoT, necessitating improved network configuration for 5G systems.

Innovation Solution

A network configuration scheme is introduced for 5G systems to support multicast/broadcast services by defining network functions, exposing and selecting appropriate network functions and services, and managing sessions through entities like BM-CPF, BM-UPF, and MBMS-GW, enabling flexible and dynamic MBS service scenarios.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If unicast is used to transmit identical data to multiple terminals, then each terminal can receive data reliably, but network resource efficiency deteriorates due to redundant transmissions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata reception reliabilityVSAvoidnetwork resource efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the transmission approach by introducing a distinct multicast/broadcast transmission path separate from unicast. The network divides data delivery into two modes: unicast for individual terminals and multicast/broadcast for multiple terminals receiving identical data, thereby eliminating redundant transmissions while maintaining reliability through appropriate protocol selection for each segment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a multicast/broadcast service center (BM-SC) as an intermediary entity that receives data and distributes it to multiple terminals simultaneously. This mediator enables efficient group delivery by acting as a central point that manages multicast session establishment, data distribution, and terminal management, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable delivery and resource efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of energy

If multicast/broadcast is used to transmit data to multiple terminals, then network resource efficiency improves, but service flexibility and adaptability worsen due to lack of standardized network function definitions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork resource efficiencyVSAvoidservice flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent defines universal network function structures (BM-SC, MBMS-GW, MCE) that can serve multiple purposes and adapt to different service scenarios. These standardized functions provide multi-functionality by handling various multicast/broadcast services (TV/audio, V2X, CIoT) through a common architectural framework, thereby enabling both resource efficiency and service flexibility simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables service flexibility through configurable parameters within the standardized network functions. The BM-SC and other entities can adjust transmission parameters, session management policies, and resource allocation based on specific service requirements, allowing the system to adapt to different service types while maintaining the efficient multicast/broadcast transmission mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If complex network functions are defined for multicast/broadcast services, then service management capability improves, but system complexity worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice management capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex service management functions into distinct, specialized network entities with specific responsibilities. The BM-SC handles service layer functions (session management, data distribution), while the MBMS-GW handles transport layer functions (gateway control, resource allocation), and the MCE handles radio access functions. This segmentation improves manageability by distributing complexity across multiple specialized components rather than concentrating it in a single complex system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12574706B2Network structure and service providing method for supporting multicast and broadcast service in mobile communication network
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US12574706B2 patent drawing
  • US12574706B2 patent drawing
  • US12574706B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. According to the present disclosure, MBS services for flexible and dynamic MBS service scenarios become possible in the next-generation wireless communication systems.