5G Slice Prioritization for UE DRB Quota Preemption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G networks limit user equipment (UE) devices to eight simultaneous network slices, leading to network access denial when an application requires a new slice, without considering the priority of existing sessions, necessitating a mechanism for managing and prioritizing DRBs and PDU sessions.
Innovation Solution
Implement a slice management and prioritization service that monitors and prioritizes DRBs/slices/PDU sessions, allowing preemption of lower priority sessions to establish higher priority ones by integrating network devices and UE devices with URSP rules and preemption policies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the network limits UE devices to eight simultaneous network slices, then network resource management is simplified, but network access is denied when applications require additional slices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of slice quota from a fixed value (eight slices) to a dynamic value that can be adjusted based on session priority. The network device determines a slice quota for the UE device based on priority information of PDU sessions, allowing the quota to vary according to network conditions and session importance, thus resolving the contradiction between management simplicity and access flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment of slice quotas based on real-time priority assessments. The network device continuously monitors PDU session priorities and adjusts the slice quota dynamically, transitioning from a static eight-slice limit to a flexible quota system that adapts to changing network conditions and application requirements
2Reliability
If the network denies access when the slice quota is reached, then network resource allocation is controlled, but critical applications cannot access the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the slice quota parameter from a fixed limit to a dynamic value determined by session priority. When critical applications require access, the network device recalculates the quota based on updated priority information, allowing temporary expansion of slice access for high-priority sessions while maintaining overall resource control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network device receives priority information from applications, evaluates current PDU session priorities, and adjusts slice quotas accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system ensures that critical applications can access the network by providing real-time information about application importance and using that information to make quota adjustment decisions
3Adaptability or versatility
If the network allows unlimited simultaneous slices, then application access flexibility is maximized, but network resource management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a priority-based quota parameter that simplifies management complexity by providing a clear criterion for slice allocation. Instead of managing unlimited slices equally, the network device uses priority information to determine quotas, creating a manageable parameter system that balances flexibility with control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different slice quota allocations to different UE devices based on their specific priority requirements. Each UE device receives a customized quota determined by its PDU session priorities, rather than applying a uniform management approach to all devices, thus providing flexibility where needed while maintaining simplicity through localized decision-making
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods described herein provide a slice management and prioritization service on a per user equipment (UE) device level. A network device in a core network may receive a notification that a UE device has exhausted a quota of available simultaneous data radio bearers (DRBs) and, afterwards, receive an indication that an application on the UE device has requested a new protocol data unit (PDU) session on a requested network slice that is not currently active for the UE device. The network device may identify relative priorities for the requested network slice and active network slices for the UE device; determine, based on the relative priorities, if the new PDU session can preempt a DRB for an active PDU session; and delete the active PDU session when it is determined the new PDU session can preempt a DRB for an active PDU session.