Access Point Inclusion-Exclusion Messaging for Network Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently managing access control for access terminals, particularly in scenarios where different network entities need to perform access control based on the capabilities of the access terminals, such as supporting Closed Subscriber Group (CSG) functionality.
Innovation Solution
An access point sends an indication or message to a network entity to determine whether it should perform access control for an access terminal, with the inclusion or exclusion of information, such as a CSG identifier, in the message determining the network entity's role in access control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If access control is performed by the access point itself, then access control functionality is integrated locally, but network entities lose flexibility in assigning access control responsibilities based on terminal capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The access control function is made dynamic by allowing the access point to dynamically select which network entity will perform access control based on the access terminal's capabilities. The access point sends capability information to the network entity, and the network entity dynamically assumes or relinquishes access control responsibility accordingly, transforming a static function into a flexible, adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The access point acts as an intermediary between the access terminal and the network entity. It receives capability information from the terminal and uses this information to determine whether to forward access control requests to the network entity or handle them locally, serving as a mediator that enables flexible function distribution without direct terminal-network entity interaction.
2Reliability
If access control is performed by network entities, then centralized control is achieved, but signaling overhead increases due to capability information exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by having the access point send only the necessary capability information (such as CSG indicator) to the network entity rather than transmitting complete terminal profiles. This selective information transfer achieves the needed access control management while minimizing signaling overhead and avoiding excessive communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The access terminal performs self-identification of its capabilities by autonomously determining whether it supports CSG functionality and by selecting appropriate access points. This self-service approach reduces the need for extensive network entity intervention and capability verification, thereby reducing signaling overhead while maintaining reliable access control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If CSG functionality is supported, then access control for restricted access points is enabled, but network entities must handle diverse access terminal capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The access control function is segmented between the access point and the network entity based on terminal capabilities. Access points with CSG restrictions forward capability information to network entities that support CSG functionality, while access points without CSG restrictions handle access control locally. This segmentation allows CSG capability to be supported without requiring all network entities to process every access control detail.
Solution Approach 2:
Different access points have different qualities in terms of CSG support. The system identifies which access points have CSG restrictions and directs them to network entities with appropriate CSG handling capabilities. This local quality approach ensures that CSG functionality is available where needed while avoiding unnecessary processing complexity at network entities serving non-CSG access points.
Data Source
AI summary
An access point sends an indication or message to a network entity to indicate whether the network entity is to perform access control for an access terminal. In some implementations the indication/message may comprise an explicit indication of whether or not that network entity is to perform the access control. In some implementations, the inclusion of information (e.g., a CSG identifier) in the message or the exclusion of information from the message indicates whether the network entity is to perform the access control.