Dynamic Session Timeout Provisioning via PCRF
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile networks face inefficiencies in managing resources due to static session timeout values, which are inadequate during peak hours, leading to inadequate termination of unused sessions and inefficient resource allocation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for dynamically provisioning session timeout information using a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) to derive and provide dynamic absolute and idle timeout values based on session information parameters such as time of day, user location, and network congestion, allowing for more efficient termination of unused sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If static timeout values are used at the PGW, then resource management is simple and configuration is easy, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates during peak hours due to inability to terminate unused sessions timely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic timeout values that automatically adjust based on network conditions. The PCRF receives session information parameters, determines appropriate timeout values dynamically, and provisions them to the PGW. This resolves the contradiction by making the timeout configuration adaptive to changing network conditions, improving resource utilization during peak hours while maintaining operational simplicity through automated determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timeout parameter from static to dynamic by introducing multiple session information parameters (time of day, user location, network congestion, APN type) that influence the timeout value determination. This allows the system to optimize resource utilization by adjusting timeout values according to different network conditions and service types, directly addressing the resource utilization efficiency issue.
2Productivity
If dynamic timeout values are implemented based on multiple parameters, then resource management efficiency improves, but system complexity increases due to additional determination logic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the PCRF as an intermediary between the PGW and the parameter determination logic. The PCRF receives session information parameters, determines appropriate timeout values, and provisions them to the PGW. This intermediary approach improves session termination efficiency while containing complexity within the PCRF, which is designed to handle such determination logic, rather than distributing complexity across multiple network elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the timeout determination process into distinct components: session information parameter collection, parameter analysis, timeout value determination, and provisioning to PGW. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by distributing functions across appropriate network elements (PCRF, PGW, UE).
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for dynamically provisioning subscriber based session timeout information are disclosed. One method includes receiving, from a packet data network gateway (PGW), a request message containing session information parameters corresponding to a session requested by a user equipment device and deriving an absolute timeout period value and an idle timeout period value based on input comprising one or more of the session information parameters. The method further includes generating a response message containing the determined absolute timeout period value and the determined idle timeout period value and sending the generated response message to the PGW, wherein the PGW is configured to apply the absolute timeout period value and the idle timeout period value to the session requested by the user equipment device.