Base Station NAS Signaling Support for EPC and Next-Generation Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently supporting NAS signaling by a base station simultaneously connected to an EPC and a next-generation core.
Innovation Solution
A method and base station configuration that enables efficient NAS signaling by determining the appropriate core network function (MME or AMF) based on NAS usage information, allowing for seamless communication between the EPC and next-generation core.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a base station is simultaneously connected to both EPC and next generation core, then the base station can support both legacy and new core networks, but the complexity of NAS signaling management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments NAS signaling into two distinct paths: one for EPC (using traditional S1-MME interface) and another for next generation core (using new signaling interface). The base station includes separate processing units for each path, allowing independent management of signaling protocols and reducing overall system complexity despite supporting multiple cores
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary signaling conversion function within the base station that translates between different NAS signaling formats required by EPC and next generation core. This mediator component handles protocol adaptation, allowing the base station to support both networks without direct complex interactions between them
2Adaptability or versatility
If the base station supports NAS signaling for both EPC and next generation core, then network migration flexibility is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring signaling states increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs distinct signaling identifiers and state indicators for different core network types, analogous to color coding. Each NAS signaling message includes type identifiers that clearly distinguish whether it belongs to EPC or next generation core, making state detection and measurement straightforward despite dual connectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates signaling state monitoring into independent modules for each core network type. Each module tracks its own signaling states using dedicated counters and status registers, preventing state confusion and simplifying measurement while maintaining network migration flexibility
Data Source
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AI summary
An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for supporting non-access stratum (NAS) signaling of a user equipment (UE) by a base station in a wireless communication system, the method comprising the steps of: transmitting, to the UE, information for supporting a connection to a next generation (NG) core; receiving a NAS-related message from the UE; performing one of MME selection and AMF selection according to whether the NAS-related message includes information regarding the use of NAS; and transmitting an NAS message to an MMF or an AMF which is determined as a result of performing one of the MME selection and the AMF selection.