Core-Sharing Network Slices for Multi-Network Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks face challenges in maintaining connectivity when a core network becomes disabled due to natural disasters or cybersecurity breaches, as they lack efficient mechanisms to share resources with other networks for seamless service continuity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Core-Sharing Slices, which allow network slices to utilize resources from both an access network of one cellular network and a core network of another, enabling dynamic configuration and registration of user equipment across distinct cellular networks to ensure continuous service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network slices are configured to provide agreed-upon services and quality of service, then utilization rate of the underlying physical network infrastructure is increased, but the system becomes more complex in managing multi-network resource sharing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network slice management by introducing distinct functional entities: access network slice management function for managing access network slice resources, and core network slice management function for managing core network slice resources. This segmentation allows independent management of different network portions, reducing overall system complexity while enabling efficient resource utilization across multiple networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of standardized interfaces and protocols that enable communication and coordination between different network slices and management functions. This intermediary layer simplifies the complexity of direct multi-network resource sharing by providing abstracted, standardized interaction points.
2Reliability
If a new physical network is built to ensure service continuity, then reliability is improved, but capital expenditure increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple cellular networks into a unified network slice architecture where resources from different networks (first cellular network and second cellular network) are combined to provide a single network slice service. This allows service continuity to be achieved by leveraging existing network infrastructure from multiple operators rather than building redundant physical networks, substantially reducing capital expenditure while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal network slice resources that can be shared across multiple networks and served by multiple management functions. These universal resources can dynamically serve different networks based on demand, ensuring service continuity without requiring dedicated physical infrastructure for each network, thereby reducing capital expenditure.
3Reliability
If network slices from different cellular networks are shared, then service continuity is enhanced, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring network state increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the access network slice management function and core network slice management function continuously exchange status information about network slice resources and usage. This feedback loop enables real-time detection and measurement of network state across multiple networks, allowing the system to dynamically adjust resource allocation and maintain service continuity while keeping network state monitoring manageable through standardized reporting protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus configured to receive, from an access network comprised in a first cellular network, a first network slice identity of a first network slice which is accessible via the access network, determine, based on the first network slice identity, that the first network slice is, in part, serviced in a core network of a second cellular network, and provide to the access network a request for the apparatus to be registered on the first network slice.