5G Service Control via Enhanced Network Feature Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 5G wireless networks lack flexibility in configuring 5G services for users, as they cannot individually restrict or allow 5G services on specific frequency ranges (FR1 or FR2) without affecting the entire network, leading to inefficient resource allocation and service differentiation.

Innovation Solution

Modifying the EPS Network Feature Support Information Element to enable wireless operators to configure 5G services per user device, allowing or restricting 5G services on either FR1, FR2, or both, by adding additional bits to indicate the availability of each frequency range, enabling flexible frequency usage based on subscription agreements and network resources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the conventional EPS Network_feature Support Information Element is used to indicate 5G service restriction, then the network can control dual connectivity restriction, but it cannot individually configure 5G services on specific frequency ranges (FR1 or FR2) per user device

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveService configuration flexibilityVSAvoidInformation Element structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the frequency range control by introducing separate indication fields for FR1 and FR2 within the EPS Network_feature Support Information Element. This allows independent configuration of 5G service restrictions for each frequency range, enabling fine-grained control over dual connectivity and 5G service per user device without requiring complete redesign of the Information Element structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a new dimension to the existing Information Element by incorporating frequency range-specific indication fields. This dimensional expansion transforms the binary restriction control into a multi-dimensional control structure that can independently manage FR1 and FR2 services, thereby achieving flexible per-device configuration while maintaining compatibility with existing network protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If 5G services are restricted on entire network level, then network resources can be managed centrally, but individual user service differentiation and optimization are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveService management controlVSAvoidUser-specific service configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by enabling different 5G service configurations for different user devices through the enhanced Information Element. Each user device can receive customized indication fields that specify which frequency ranges (FR1, FR2, or both) are restricted for that particular device, allowing network operators to tailor services individually while maintaining centralized management capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic service configuration by allowing the indication fields in the Information Element to be flexibly set based on user subscriptions, network conditions, and service requirements. This dynamic approach enables the network to adjust 5G service restrictions on a per-device basis in real-time, balancing centralized control with user-specific optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If dual connectivity with 5G New Radio is allowed without restriction, then users can access both FR1 and FR2 services, but network resources may be inefficiently allocated and service differentiation cannot be achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveService access flexibilityVSAvoidNetwork resource allocation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the control parameters by introducing frequency range-specific indication fields that modify the default unrestricted dual connectivity behavior. These parameters allow the network to selectively restrict access to FR1, FR2, or both frequency ranges for individual user devices, thereby optimizing network resource allocation and enabling service differentiation while maintaining flexible service access where appropriate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11558797B2Flexible 5G services control through an enhanced network feature support
Publication Date: 2023.01.17 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US11558797B2 patent drawing
  • US11558797B2 patent drawing
  • US11558797B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, creating a message associated with a 5th Generation (5G) wireless service, the message containing: a first indication whether the 5G wireless service is restricted or permitted in a first frequency range of a 5G frequency spectrum; and a second indication whether the 5G wireless service is restricted or permitted in a second frequency range of the 5G frequency spectrum, the second frequency range being a frequency range that is different from the first frequency range; and facilitating transmission of the message that is created to first user equipment, to a radio access network, or to a combination thereof. Other embodiments are disclosed.