Data Storage Function Selection in 5G Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G wireless systems, there is a challenge in determining how consumer and producer nodes of user equipment (UE) context data can locate and register with the correct logical data storage function, especially when the UE is roaming or in the home network, and how they interface with each other.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves storing a pointer to the data storage function within the home subscriber server or subscriber data management function, allowing network functions to locate and register for UE context information, and using service discovery functions to determine the correct data storage location, enabling seamless registration and data access both in roaming and non-roaming scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a distributed data storage architecture is implemented in 5G networks to improve network flexibility and scalability, then network adaptability and productivity are improved, but the complexity of locating and registering with the correct data storage function increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data storage discovery function as an intermediary component that mediates between network functions needing UE context data and the actual distributed data storage functions. This discovery function maintains knowledge of where UE context data is stored and provides guidance to consumers, thereby resolving the complexity of locating data in a distributed architecture without sacrificing network flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having network functions store pointers to data storage functions in advance within the home subscriber server or subscriber data management function. This pre-established mapping allows consumers to quickly locate the correct data storage function without real-time discovery complexity, while still supporting flexible data distribution
2Reliability
If UE context information is stored in distributed locations across home and roaming networks to improve network reliability and adaptability, then system reliability is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the correct data storage location increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage discovery function serves as an intermediary that simplifies the detection process by providing a centralized query mechanism. Network functions can query the discovery function to determine where UE context data is stored, whether in home or roaming networks, without directly complex discovery procedures
Solution Approach 2:
By pre-storing pointers to data storage functions in the home subscriber server or subscriber data management function, the system enables quick detection of data locations without real-time complexity, while maintaining reliable access across home and roaming scenarios
3Ease of operation
If a standardized interface for data storage function selection is implemented to improve ease of operation, then ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional discovery and registration functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data access functionality into distinct components: the data storage discovery function for location determination, the pointer storage mechanism in home subscriber servers, and the registration interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, simplifying the overall operation while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The discovery function and pointer mechanism are designed as universal components that work across both home network and roaming network scenarios. This multi-functionality allows the same interface and mechanisms to simplify operations in diverse contexts without requiring separate complex solutions for each scenario
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for data storage (DS) function selection are provided. One method includes obtaining, from a network node, an address of a DS function that contains user equipment (UE) context information for at least one UE. The method may further include accessing, by a client, the DS function to register for the UE context information.