Access Network Selection Using Application Policy and Multi-Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies have limitations in controlling access technologies based on the application's needs and network conditions, leading to suboptimal selection of access technologies for applications, which affects quality of service and mobility management.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Access Network Multi-Connectivity (ANMC) system that includes a control function client and server to manage access technologies based on application policies, subscriber preferences, and network conditions, ensuring optimal selection and quality of service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If access technology selection is based on fixed preference lists or signal strength considerations, then device compatibility and basic connectivity are ensured, but flexibility to meet application-specific requirements and provider policies is lost
Solution Approach 1:
An access network multi-connectivity server acts as an intermediary between access devices and multiple access networks. The server receives application policy information from providers, determines optimal access technologies based on application requirements and network conditions, and manages the selection process centrally, thereby providing flexible access technology selection without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The access technology selection function is segmented into two parts: the access device maintains basic connectivity capabilities with simple preference lists, while the access network multi-connectivity server handles complex policy-based selection. This segmentation allows flexible access technology selection to be achieved through the server without complicating the device architecture
2Reliability
If a single access technology is selected for all services, then device operation is simplified, but quality of service for different applications with different requirements cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
Different access technologies are selected for different applications based on their specific requirements. The access network multi-connectivity server evaluates application policy information and matches applications with suitable access networks, ensuring that each application receives appropriate quality of service through locally optimized access technology selection
Solution Approach 2:
The access technology selection is made dynamic and application-specific through the use of application policy information. The server can dynamically determine appropriate access technologies based on real-time network conditions and application requirements, rather than using a static single technology for all services
3Adaptability or versatility
If access technology selection is based on subscriber preferences only, then service provider control is maintained, but application-specific requirements and content provider needs cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple sources of policy information including subscriber preferences, application policy information from application providers, and content provider requirements. The access network multi-connectivity server integrates these diverse policy inputs to make comprehensive access technology selection decisions, thereby achieving flexible policy control that addresses all stakeholder needs
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and system for selecting at a terminal at least one of a plurality of available access networks for use with a wireless application invoked at the terminal according preferences associated with the wireless application, the network service provider, the subscriber, the subscriber subscription and application content provider. The selection may be constrained by an Application Policy received from a network service provider