AMF Indication Signaling for 4G-5G PDU Session Interworking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The interworking across network systems for user equipment (UE) is not effectively performed due to the lack of a reasonable solution for handling the differences in network element selection between the 4G and 5G systems, particularly in the selection of different Session Management Function (SMF) and Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) entities, which violates the 4G system's principles during transitions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an indication information sending method by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) to provide first and second indication information to target network elements, indicating whether a PDU session can interwork with a target network system and storing DNN interworking information, ensuring seamless transitions and correct network element selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple SMF entities are selected for multiple PDU sessions using the same DNN in the 5G system, then the flexibility and adaptability of the 5G system are improved, but the interworking with the 4G system cannot be performed because it violates the 4G system's principle of using the same PGW for multiple PDN connections with the same APN
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the SMF selection process by introducing indication information that divides PDU sessions into two categories: those capable of interworking with 4G system and those not capable. This segmentation allows the system to apply different SMF selection strategies for different session types, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and interworking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making the SMF selection criterion specific to each PDU session's interworking capability rather than applying a uniform selection rule system-wide. The indication information enables localized decision-making at the session level, allowing 5G flexibility for non-interworking sessions while ensuring 4G compatibility for interworking sessions.
2Reliability
If the same PGW is selected for multiple PDN connections with the same APN in the 4G system, then the interworking principle is maintained, but the flexibility to select different network elements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the network element selection adaptable based on the interworking capability indication. Rather than a static selection rule, the system dynamically adjusts SMF selection based on whether the PDU session requires 4G interworking, thereby achieving both principle compliance and selection flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the selection parameter from a fixed rule to a dynamic parameter based on the interworking capability indication. The indication information acts as a parameter that modifies the selection behavior, allowing the system to switch between different selection strategies depending on the session's interworking requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an indication information sending method, apparatus and system, a storage medium, and an electronic device, where the indication information sending method includes: sending, by a first access and mobility management function (AMF), first indication information to a first target network element, where the first indication information is used for indicating whether a packet data unit (PDU) session is capable of interworking with a target network system.