AMF Node MA PDU Session Selection for 5G Network Slicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication networks face challenges in supporting high-speed, ultra-wide band services and achieving low latency required for next-generation 5G applications, particularly in accommodating services like autonomous driving and augmented reality, due to limitations in existing LTE/LTE-A core network design.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of network slicing and multi-access PDU session management, which allows for the creation of customized network slices and simultaneous access to multiple data networks through 3GPP and non-3GPP access, enabling efficient resource allocation and management of user plane setups across different access technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the existing LTE/LTE-A core network design is used, then the network structure is simple and easy to manage, but it cannot support high-speed ultra-wide band services and low latency required for 5G applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the core network into multiple functional units including AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function), SMF (Session Management Function), and UPF (User Plane Function). This segmentation allows the network to handle different functions independently, enabling support for high-speed 5G services while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing network functions that can serve multiple purposes. The AMF handles both access management and mobility management, while the SMF manages session establishment and modification across different access types (3GPP and non-3GPP). This universal design enables the network to support diverse 5G applications including enhanced mobile broadband, massive machine type communication, and ultra-reliable low latency communication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If single access PDU session is established, then the session management is simple, but it cannot provide seamless service continuity across different access technologies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic session management that can adapt to different access types. The system dynamically establishes, modifies, and releases PDU sessions based on the access type (3GPP or non-3GPP) and service requirements. This dynamic approach enables seamless service continuity as users move between different access technologies while the network automatically adjusts session parameters accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the AMF and SMF continuously monitor session status and access type changes. When a user equipment switches between 3GPP and non-3GPP accesses, the system receives feedback about the access type change and automatically triggers appropriate session modification procedures to maintain service continuity, thereby managing complexity through automated feedback-driven adjustments.
3Reliability
If separate PDU sessions are established for 3GPP and non-3GPP accesses, then each session can be optimized for its access type, but it increases signaling overhead and session management complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges session management functions by allowing a single PDU session to be associated with multiple access types. Instead of establishing completely separate sessions for 3GPP and non-3GPP accesses, the system combines them under a unified session framework managed by the SMF. This reduces signaling overhead by avoiding duplicate session establishment procedures while still maintaining access-specific optimizations through configurable session parameters.
Data Source
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AI summary
A disclosure of the present specification provides a method for processing establishment of a protocol data unit (PDU) session by an access and mobility management function (AMF) node. The method may include a step of receiving a PDU session establishment request message from a user equipment (UE) via either a first access or a second access. The PDU session establishment request message may include information indicative of a multi access (MA) PDU session. The method may include a step of selecting a session management function (SMF) node supporting the MA PDU session on the basis of the information indicative of the MA PDU session. The method may include a step of sending the PDU session establishment request message to the SMF node supporting the MA PDU session.