5G Multicast Session Functions for Service-Based Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multicast services are unable to operate on a network using a service-based architecture based on network functions in 5G networks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multicast service session operation apparatus that decomposes multicast functions into three network functions: MBSF for multicast session user context management, MBUF for multi-copy forwarding, and MBPCF for user and quality of service authorization, enabling service-based interactions between these functions to facilitate multicast service operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multicast services are provided based on network elements, then multicast service operation is achieved, but the service-based architecture based on network functions cannot support multicast services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multicast service functionality into three distinct network functions: MBSF for session management, MBUF for user plane forwarding, and MBPCF for policy control. This segmentation enables each function to operate independently within the service-based architecture, resolving the contradiction by making the architecture adaptable to multicast services without requiring complete architectural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mediator mechanism that enables interaction between the service-based network functions and existing multicast protocols. The mediator layer translates between traditional network element-based multicast operations and the new service-based architecture, allowing multicast services to operate without changing the fundamental service-based architecture paradigm.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multicast functions are decomposed into three network functions, then service-based architecture compatibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each of the three network functions is designed with universal capabilities that can handle multiple operations. For example, the MBSF manages both session establishment and termination, while the MBUF handles both data forwarding and resource allocation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining service-based architecture compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges related functions into unified network function components. The MBPCF combines policy control and authorization functions, while the MBSF integrates session management with resource coordination. This merging reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall system architecture despite the functional decomposition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If service-based architecture is adopted, then network flexibility is improved, but multicast service operation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the MBPCF receives status information from MBSF and MBUF, and adjusts policy decisions accordingly. The MBSF receives feedback from MBUF about resource availability and adjusts session parameters. This feedback loop ensures reliable multicast service operation while maintaining the flexibility of the service-based architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing policy rules and resource reservations before actual multicast data transmission begins. The MBPCF establishes authorization policies in advance, and the MBSF pre-configures session parameters, ensuring that when multicast services are activated, the infrastructure is already in place for reliable operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method and an apparatus for multicast service session operation and a communications device, where the method for multicast service session operation includes: receiving from a terminal a request including multicast service information; and sending a first invocation parameter to a second network function, where the first invocation parameter is used for invoking a multicast context service operation of the second network function.