DRA Policy Device Selection for 4G and 5G IMS
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Solution Overview
Problem
In complex wireless communication networks, particularly in 4G and 5G environments, the Diameter Routing Agent (DRA) faces challenges in distinguishing between 4G and 5G subscribers, leading to difficulties in selecting the appropriate policy device for IMS calls, which affects network management and service quality.
Innovation Solution
The DRA is configured to receive requests with subscriber type information or gateway device identifiers, using these to select either a 4G PCRF device or a 5G PCF device based on the specific subscriber type or gateway device, ensuring that policies are applied correctly for each type of subscriber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the DRA uses a unified policy device selection method for all subscribers, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of subscriber type identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the policy device selection process by creating separate selection paths for 4G subscribers and 5G subscribers. The DRA evaluates different parameters (APN for 4G, S-NSSAI for 5G) based on subscriber type, dividing the unified selection process into distinct specialized paths that maintain accuracy for each generation while managing overall complexity.
2Reliability
If the DRA implements detailed subscriber type discrimination, then the reliability of policy application is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring subscriber type worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by evaluating subscriber type indicators (APN, S-NSSAI, network type) before the actual policy device selection occurs. The DRA performs upfront detection and classification of subscriber type, storing this information for subsequent policy matching, which ensures reliable policy application while managing detection complexity through pre-processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the network supports both 4G and 5G subscribers with different policy devices, then the adaptability of the network is improved, but the device complexity of the DRA increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the DRA with multi-functional capabilities to handle both 4G and 5G subscriber types through a single device. The DRA universally supports multiple detection methods (APN evaluation, S-NSSAI evaluation, network type detection) and can selectively apply appropriate policy devices based on subscriber type, maintaining adaptability while consolidating functionality in one device rather than requiring separate DRAs for each generation.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer device may include a memory storing instructions and processor configured to execute the instructions to receive a request associated with a subscriber, wherein the request includes information identifying whether the user is a Fifth Generation (5G) subscriber or information identifying a gateway device associated with the user. The computer device may be further configured to select a Fourth Generation (4G) Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) device or a 5G Policy Control Function (PCF) device based on the information included in the received request and forward the received request to the selected 4G PCRF device or 5G PCF device.