5G AMF Context Transfer for Concurrent 3GPP Non-3GPP Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing simultaneous registrations over trusted and non-trusted access in 5G networks, particularly in transferring user equipment context and relocating network interfaces between access management functions, which affects communication performance and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A computer system performs sequential or concurrent registrations of user equipment over different access types, such as non-3GPP and 3GPP access, by transferring context and relocating network interfaces in the control plane between access management functions, enabling simultaneous registration and improved management within a common wireless communication system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If sequential registration management is used for 3GPP and non-3GPP access, then system complexity is reduced, but communication performance and service flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the registration management by introducing separate AMF instances for 3GPP access and non-3GPP access. Each AMF handles specific access types independently, reducing overall system complexity while enabling concurrent registration operations. The segmentation allows parallel processing of registration requests without requiring a single complex management entity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism through the AMF context transfer functionality. When a UE switches between access types, the context is transferred between AMF instances via an intermediary interface, enabling seamless handover while maintaining registration state. This intermediary approach resolves the contradiction by providing structured communication between segmented management entities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If context transfer between AMF instances is implemented, then service flexibility is improved, but system complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal context transfer mechanism that can be applied across different access types (3GPP and non-3GPP). The same AMF context structure and transfer procedures are used regardless of the specific access type, providing multi-functionality. This universal approach enhances service flexibility while avoiding the need for separate complex mechanisms for each access type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the AMF context to track and manage UE registration state across different access types. By modifying context parameters rather than creating entirely new data structures, the system achieves adaptability with minimal complexity increase. The context parameters are updated dynamically based on access type transitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If concurrent registration over multiple access types is allowed, then service versatility is improved, but network interface management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network interface management by assigning specific interface handling responsibilities to dedicated AMF instances. Each AMF manages interfaces for its designated access type, reducing the complexity any single entity must handle. This segmentation enables concurrent registration while distributing interface management complexity across multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses context copying mechanisms to replicate UE registration information across AMF instances when concurrent registration is established. Instead of managing complex inter-dependent interface states, the system creates simplified copies of relevant context information, reducing interface management complexity while maintaining service versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer system that establishes a first registration and a second registration in a common wireless communication system is described. During operation, the computer system performs a first registration of the user equipment over a first access, where, after the first registration, the user equipment is connected via the first access with a first access and mobility management function (AMF). Then, the computer system performs a second registration of the user equipment over a second access, where the second access is different from the first access and, after the second registration, the user equipment is connected via the second access with a second AMF. Moreover, when performing the second registration, the computer system: transfers a context of the user equipment from the first AMF to the second AMF; and/or relocates a network interface in a control plane from the first AMF to the second AMF.