5G Network Slice Requesting via ECS for On-Demand Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G networks lack the ability for devices to request and connect to specific network slices that are not preconfigured, limiting resource utilization and user experience, as well as failing to efficiently manage device access control and network requirements.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Entitlement Configuration Server (ECS) as a single entry point for device-network communication, allowing devices to request network slices based on specific requirements, and interacting with other Network Functions (NFs) to assign slices that meet these demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network slicing is implemented with preconfiguration only, then network resource utilization efficiency is improved, but device flexibility and user experience are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static preconfiguration model into a dynamic on-demand model. The Entitlement Configuration Server receives real-time requests from devices, evaluates network conditions and device requirements, and dynamically assigns appropriate network slices. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing user needs while optimizing resource utilization based on actual demand rather than fixed configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables devices to autonomously request and select network slices based on their own requirements. The device sends requests to the ECS with its network needs, and the system automatically processes the request by evaluating available slices and assigning the most suitable one. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual configuration while maintaining optimal resource allocation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If on-demand network slicing is implemented, then device flexibility and user experience are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the Entitlement Configuration Server as an intermediary component between devices and the network slice assignment system. This server acts as a mediator that receives requests from devices, evaluates their requirements against available network slices, and makes assignment decisions. By centralizing this mediation function, the patent simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling flexible on-demand slice selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary evaluation and preparation of network slice assignments before actual connection establishment. The ECS pre-evaluates device requests, checks availability of suitable slices, and prepares assignment decisions in advance. This preliminary action reduces the complexity of real-time decision-making and ensures smooth, efficient slice allocation when devices actually need connectivity.
3Reliability
If centralized network slice assignment is used, then access control security is improved, but latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling each device to have its own tailored network slice assignment based on its specific requirements and location. Rather than a uniform centralized approach, the system evaluates individual device needs and assigns appropriate slices locally. This localized decision-making reduces the latency associated with centralized processing while maintaining security through controlled access policies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial centralized control by having the ECS handle only the essential evaluation and assignment decisions, while allowing devices to autonomously manage their own connections once slices are assigned. This partial centralization maintains security through controlled policy enforcement while minimizing latency by reducing the scope of centralized processing to only what is necessary for slice selection rather than complete connection management.
Data Source
AI summary
Network slicing is a feature and architecture in a 5G Standalone (SA) network. Permitting a device to request a network slice that has not already been pre-configured into the device will allow for the utilization of network slices that may have more suitable characteristics based on the particular needs of the device. Systems and methods are provided for on demand 5G slicing that allow a device to interact with the 5G network to request a particular slice based on characteristics, such as speed, latency, and reliability, in order to fulfill the particular needs of the device and obtain the best user experience. In some examples, an Entitlement Configuration Server (ECS) is used as the point of communication between a device and the 5G network.