ATSSS Rule Modification for Multi-Access PDU Session Traffic Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G network technologies are unable to support the access traffic steering, switching, and splitting (ATSSS) function, as they only establish single access PDU sessions for one access network, limiting the ability to transmit user traffic through multiple access networks.
Innovation Solution
A method for modifying packet data unit (PDU) sessions to enable multi-access PDU sessions by triggering changes to ATSSS rules within the network, involving the session management function (SMF), access and mobility management function (AMF), and user equipment (UE), using messages like Namf_Communication_N1N2MessageTransfer and N2 session request messages to distribute traffic across multiple access networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single access PDU session is established for one access network, then the network complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to support multi-access traffic distribution is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PDU session into multiple access-specific sessions (3GPP access and non-3GPP access) while maintaining a unified session context. This allows independent management of each access network while supporting coordinated multi-access operation, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and multi-access adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The session management function is designed to handle both single-access and multi-access scenarios through a unified interface. The same PDU session can operate in SA mode (single access) or MA mode (multi-access), providing universal functionality that adapts to different deployment requirements without increasing operational complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If traffic is transmitted through multiple access networks, then the adaptability and service capability are improved, but the device complexity and network complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The session management function acts as an intermediary that centralizes the complexity of multi-access traffic management. It handles ATSSS rule configuration, traffic steering decisions, and coordination between access networks, while the UE and access networks follow standardized procedures. This mediator approach enables multi-access adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity at the UE and network elements
3Adaptability or versatility
If ATSSS rules are modified dynamically, then the adaptability to changing traffic conditions is improved, but the signaling overhead and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
ATSSS rules are pre-configured during PDU session establishment based on expected traffic patterns and network conditions. This preliminary configuration allows rapid traffic distribution decisions without requiring complex real-time rule modifications, reducing the time loss associated with dynamic rule changes while maintaining adaptability through pre-planned rule sets
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic distribution method through a multi-access network in a network and a network entity performing the same. A first device belonging to the network may trigger a change to an ATSSS (access traffic steering, switching, and splitting) rule corresponding to an established multi-access PDU session (MA PDU session) when the MA PDU session is established. A session management function (SMF) may transmit a first message including the changed ATSSS rule to an access and mobility management function (AMF).