Application-Driven Dynamic Network Slice Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The management of diverse devices in communication networks, particularly in 5G wireless access networks, becomes increasingly complex due to the incorporation of next-generation technologies like 5G New Radio (NR) millimeter wave technology and network slicing, which requires dynamic and efficient selection of network slices based on specific service requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of application-driven dynamic network slice selection, where the 5G Network Exposure Function (NEF) device, with a slice manager and slice database, dynamically selects network slices based on requests from Application Functions (AF) devices, using a REST API for communication with other network functions like the Unified Data Management (UDM) and Access and Mobility Function (AMF), to ensure optimal resource allocation and quality of service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If static network slice selection is used, then device compatibility is maintained, but network resource allocation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network slice selection where the network slice assigned to a device changes based on real-time application requirements. The system transitions from static pre-configured slice assignment to dynamic selection triggered by application-layer requests, allowing the network to adapt slice allocation to current service demands while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision-making mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of network slice selection from fixed to variable based on application type. By introducing application-driven parameters (service requirements, QoS needs) that modify the slice selection decision, the system optimizes resource allocation efficiency without proportionally increasing management complexity through automated parameter-based routing.
2Reliability
If application-driven dynamic slice selection is implemented, then service quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (application function or network function) that translates application-layer service requirements into network-layer slice selection decisions. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of mapping diverse application needs to appropriate network slices, thereby improving service quality while containing system complexity within the intermediary component rather than propagating it throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where application performance metrics and service requirements are continuously monitored and used to adjust network slice selection. This feedback mechanism enables the system to maintain high service quality by adapting to changing conditions while managing complexity through automated closed-loop control rather than manual configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual network slice configuration is used, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the network system to automatically select and configure appropriate network slices based on application requirements without manual intervention. The system serves itself by having network functions automatically translate application service requirements into slice selection decisions, thereby achieving high application adaptability while maintaining configuration simplicity through automation rather than manual processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer device may include a memory storing instructions and processor configured to execute the instructions to receive a session request from an application function (AF) device for a user equipment (UE) device and select a network slice based on the AF device. The computer device may be further configured to send a slice selection trigger to an Access and Mobility Function device for the UE device in response to selecting the network slice, wherein the slice selection trigger includes an instruction to UE device to request the selected network slice; receive a notification from a User Plane Function device associated with the selected slice, wherein the notification identifies a Packet Data Unit session between the UPF device and the UE device; and instruct the AF device to start a session with the UE device via the identified PDU session.