Core Network Service Discovery Through Unified NRF Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G networks separate Network Function (NF) discovery and application layer service discovery, leading to inefficiencies and fragmented service discovery processes.
Innovation Solution
Integrates NF discovery and application layer service discovery within the core network, enabling methods for UEs and servers to advertise service capabilities, initiate discovery during registration or PDU session establishment, and subscribe to specific services, with network services facilitated by a Network Repository Function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If NF discovery and application layer service discovery are performed separately, then each discovery process can be simplified and managed independently, but the overall service discovery efficiency is reduced and fragmentation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges NF discovery and application layer service discovery into a unified discovery process. The NRF (Network Repository Function) serves as a common repository where both network functions and application services are registered and discovered through a single interface (Nnef service discovery), eliminating the need for separate discovery mechanisms and improving overall efficiency.
2Productivity
If service discovery is integrated into core network, then service discovery efficiency is enhanced and connectivity is improved, but the core network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The NRF is designed as a multi-functional entity that handles both traditional NF discovery and new application layer service discovery through a unified architecture. By making the NRF universal, the patent avoids creating separate complex discovery systems while still achieving integrated service discovery capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the NRF as an intermediary component that mediates between network functions and application services. This intermediary structure allows the core network to maintain manageable complexity while enabling efficient integrated service discovery, as the NRF acts as a single point of coordination for all discovery operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate discovery processes are used, then network functions and application services can be discovered independently, but service availability and connectivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By combining both discovery processes into a unified NRF-based system, the patent ensures that network functions and application services are discovered together, improving service availability. The unified approach allows for better coordination and ensures that all necessary services are found during the discovery process, enhancing reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for integrating NF discovery and application layer service capability discovery in a communications network, such as the 3GPP NR (e.g., 5G) network. In examples, a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) may send a session establishment request comprising service discovery information to a network function. The service discovery information may indicate a service capability. The network function may send a session establishment accept message to the WTRU. The session establishment accept message may include information associated with the service capability indicated in the session establishment request. The information associated with the service capability may be based on information received from a network repository function (NRF).