Application Server Bearer Disconnection for Mobile Network Resource Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile network operators face challenges in efficiently managing radio resources due to unawareness of parallel WLAN or non-cellular access options used by subscribers, leading to wasted radio connections.
Innovation Solution
An application server external to the mobile communications network can detect alternative access options and request the policy control entity to disconnect existing bearers, allowing for resource optimization by informing the network of possible offloading to other connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mobile network maintains radio connections for all subscribers, then connection reliability is improved, but radio resource utilization deteriorates when subscribers use parallel WLAN access
Solution Approach 1:
The application server provides feedback to the mobile network operator about alternative access options available to subscribers. This feedback mechanism enables the network to adjust radio resource allocation dynamically based on actual usage patterns, maintaining connections only when necessary and releasing resources when subscribers are using parallel WLAN access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the application server to autonomously detect and report alternative access options without requiring manual network intervention. The network operator receives this information and can automatically optimize radio resource allocation based on the reported data.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the network is unaware of alternative access options, then connection stability is maintained, but network efficiency deteriorates due to inability to offload users
Solution Approach 1:
The application server acts as an intermediary between the mobile network and subscribers, detecting alternative access options and relaying this information to the network operator. This intermediary role enables the network to become aware of alternative access options without directly monitoring subscriber devices, maintaining connection stability while improving network efficiency through informed resource management.
3Loss of energy
If the application server requests bearer disconnection, then radio resource utilization is improved, but connection reliability may deteriorate if the alternative access is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic resource management where the application server continuously monitors alternative access availability and adjusts bearer connection status accordingly. When alternative access is available, bearers are disconnected to save radio resources; when unavailable, bearers are maintained to ensure connection reliability. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between resource utilization and connection reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for operating an application server providing a service to a multipath enabled mobile entity connected to the application server with a first bearer of a first access network of a first mobile communications network, wherein the application server is external to the mobile communications network, whereas the method comprises the steps of receiving an indication that the mobile entity has an option to use another bearer not belonging to the first mobile communications network for accessing the application server, and of transmitting a request message towards a policy control entity of the first mobile communications network requesting the policy control entity to disconnect the first bearer.