5G Network Element Triggering via NEF-SCEF Interworking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lack of explicit interaction descriptions between 4G and 5G network entities, such as SCEF and NEF, leads to challenges in designing flows and interfaces, and existing solutions do not provide effective means for triggering appropriate 5G network elements.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes an application function (AF), network exposure function (NEF), unified data management (UDM), service capability exposure function (SCEF), and short message service function (SMSF) to facilitate the exchange of trigger requests and IDs, enabling interworking between 4G and 5G nodes and reducing the need for diameter interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If explicit interaction descriptions between 4G and 5G network entities are provided, then interface design becomes easier, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Application Function (AF) as an intermediary entity that mediates between 4G and 5G network elements. The AF receives trigger requests from external applications and translates them into appropriate actions for the target network element, eliminating the need for direct complex interactions between 4G and 5G entities. This intermediary approach simplifies interface design while managing system complexity through centralized control.
2Reliability
If multiple diameter interfaces are used for triggering network elements, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal triggering mechanism where the Application Function serves multiple network elements (both 4G and 5G) through a single standardized interface. Instead of requiring separate diameter interfaces for different network elements, the AF provides a multi-functional gateway that handles various triggering scenarios through unified procedures, reducing interface complexity while maintaining reliable triggering across diverse network elements.
3Manufacturing precision
If 3GPP specifications detail all triggering flows, then implementation precision improves, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic triggering framework where the Application Function adapts its behavior based on the target network element type and current network conditions. Rather than following rigid predefined flows, the AF dynamically selects appropriate triggering methods and parameters, allowing the system to maintain precise implementation for known scenarios while adapting to new network elements and requirements without requiring specification updates.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a system (100) and a method for triggering 5G network elements. The system (100) includes an interworking unit to facilitate exchange of messages between a Service Capability Exposure Function (SCEF) and Network Exposure Function (NEF) (114). The system (100) includes the NEF (114) obtains a short message Service Function ID (SMSF ID) associated with a device (for example, a user equipment or a network element) and transmits a request along with the SMSF ID to the SCEF via the interworking unit. The interworking unit receives the request from the NEF (114), converts the request into a format compatible with the SCEF, and transmits the converted request thereto.