Control Plane Solution for Simultaneous PDN Connections in Wireless Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face limitations in efficiently managing multiple simultaneous packet data connections and mobility-related IP address preservation when transitioning between 3GPP and Trusted WLAN access, particularly in offloading data from cellular networks to Wi-Fi networks, due to constraints in existing network architectures and protocols.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control plane solution based on IEEE 802.11 L2 action frames and a new Generic Advertisement Protocol (GAS) for SaMOG, enabling multiple simultaneous PDN connections and non-seamless WLAN offload (NSWO) capabilities, with enhanced capability negotiation and IP address management between User Equipment (UE) and Trusted Wireless Access Gateway (TWAG), allowing concurrent access to EPC and local IP networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If Wi-Fi offloading is implemented to increase network capacity, then wireless network capacity is improved, but network architecture complexity increases due to multiple access types and protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobility management entity (MME) as an intermediary that centralizes the management of multiple access types (3GPP and non-3GPP). The MME handles authentication, authorization, and mobility management for both cellular and Wi-Fi accesses, abstracting the complexity from the core network and providing a unified control plane that simplifies overall network architecture while supporting multiple access technologies
Solution Approach 2:
The MME is designed as a universal control entity that performs multiple functions including authentication, authorization, mobility management, and IP address allocation for both 3GPP and non-3GPP accesses. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate management systems, reducing overall network complexity while enabling Wi-Fi offloading capabilities
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple simultaneous PDN connections are established, then network versatility is improved, but connection management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection management by establishing separate bearers for each PDN connection through the MME. Each bearer is independently configured and managed, allowing multiple PDN connections to coexist with distinct QoS parameters, APNs, and IP address allocations. This segmentation enables versatile multi-connection support while maintaining manageable complexity through structured organization
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically manages multiple PDN connections by allowing the MME to activate, deactivate, modify, and prioritize different bearers based on current network conditions and user requirements. This dynamic capability enables the network to adapt to changing demands while maintaining organized connection management through centralized control
3Ease of operation
If IP address preservation is implemented during mobility, then user experience is improved, but protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the MME tracks the current access type (3GPP or non-3GPP) and user location, and uses this information to make intelligent decisions about IP address preservation and bearer management during mobility events. The system continuously monitors connection state and adjusts IP allocation strategies accordingly, providing seamless user experience while managing protocol complexity through centralized intelligence
Data Source
AI summary
Connection control circuitry is provided for a User Equipment (UE) configurable to offload communication of packet data from a cellular radio-access network comprising a Trusted Wireless Local Access Network (TWLAN) and a Trusted Wireless Access Gateway (TWAG) with IP Address preservation. The connection control circuitry has a connection requesting module configured to send a distinguishable-connection establishment message to the TWAG, requesting setup of a TWAG-routed data connection comprising at least one of a Packet Data Network (PDN) connection and a Non-Seamless Wireless Offload (NSWO) connection. A unique virtual gateway interface address is used to identify a point-to-point link between the UE and the TWAG. This allows the TWAG to distinguish between multiple substantially simultaneous point-to-point links which support multiple substantially simultaneous packet data connections. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.