AMF S-NSSAI Mapping for UPF N4 Session Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing and controlling user plane functions, particularly in providing network slices for diverse services like mobile broadband and IoT, due to limitations in network resource allocation and data usage management across different network slices.
Innovation Solution
The proposed method involves the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) in a wireless communication system receiving Single-Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI) from user equipment, determining associated S-NSSAI for packet data sessions, and transmitting this information to the User Plane Function (UPF) via the Session Management Function (SMF) to request N4 session modifications, enabling effective management of data usage and resource allocation across network slices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network slices are deployed to provide diverse services in 5G systems, then service versatility is improved, but network resource allocation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies network slice segmentation by dividing the core network into multiple isolated logical networks (slices), each dedicated to specific services (e.g., eMBB, URLLC, mMTC). Each slice has independent resource allocation and can be managed separately, allowing the system to provide diverse services while maintaining manageable complexity through modular organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the N4 Session interface as an intermediary mechanism between the Session Management Function (SMF) and User Plane Function (UPF). This standardized interface simplifies resource allocation by providing a structured protocol for establishing, modifying, and releasing sessions across network slices, reducing the complexity of direct resource management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network slices are managed simultaneously, then service diversity is improved, but data usage management difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments data usage management by implementing separate charging and billing mechanisms for each network slice. The charging function can identify and track data usage per slice through the N4 Session interface, enabling independent measurement and management of data consumption across different services without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the SMF receives charging information from the charging function and can modify N4 sessions accordingly. This closed-loop feedback enables dynamic adjustment of resource allocation and data usage policies based on real-time charging data, simplifying management through automated responses.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, a method performed, by an access and mobility management function (AMF), in a wireless communication system, the method comprising receiving, from a user equipment (UE) with a packet data network (PDN) connection established, a registration request message including a first single-network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI) associated with the PDN connection, determining a second S-NSSAI associated with a packet data unit (PDU) session corresponding to the PDN connection based on the first S-NSSAI, and transmitting an information regarding the second S-NSSAI to a user plane function (UPF) via a session management function (SMF) to request modification of N4 session.