ATSSS PDU Session Management for Multi-Access Traffic Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G network technologies are unable to support Access Traffic Steering, Switching, and Splitting (ATSSS) across multiple access networks, as existing PDU sessions are limited to a single access network, preventing simultaneous data transmission and reception through multiple networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and network entity that manage the connection state of terminals across different access networks by activating the control and user planes, and performing PDU session modifications using Session Management Function (SMF) and Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) messages to enable ATSSS, allowing traffic to be steered, switched, and split between 3GPP and Non-3GPP access networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single access PDU session (SA PDU Session) is established for only one access network, then the PDU session can be managed simply, but user traffic cannot be transmitted and received through two or more access networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PDU session management by introducing separate Single-Access PDU Sessions (SA PDU Sessions) for each access network while adding a Multi-Access PDU Session (MA PDU Session) that aggregates multiple SA PDU Sessions. This segmentation allows traffic to be distributed across multiple access networks while maintaining independent management of each session, resolving the contradiction between multi-access capability and management complexity.
2Reliability
If connection state checking is performed for multiple access networks before ATSSS, then traffic switching reliability is improved, but signaling overhead and procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring the SMF to check the connection states of terminals on both source and target access networks before executing ATSSS traffic switching. This preliminary verification ensures that the target access network is ready to receive traffic, preventing switching failures and improving reliability while maintaining a structured approach to multi-network management.
3Use of energy by moving object
If control plane and user plane are activated sequentially for the second access network, then resource allocation is optimized, but activation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by activating the control plane and user plane in sequential phases rather than simultaneously. The control plane is activated first to establish signaling and management capabilities, followed by user plane activation for data transmission. This phased approach optimizes resource allocation by activating network functions only when needed, while the systematic sequencing minimizes overall activation time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for access traffic steering, switching, and splitting (ATSSS) in a network and a network entity for performing the method are disclosed. When the execution of the ATSSS from the first access network to the second access network is determined, a first message requesting the SMF to confirm the connection state of the terminals for the first access network and the second access network may be transmitted to AMF. The SMF may receive information on the connection state of the terminal from the AMF.