E2E Network Slice Selection for 5G Signaling Latency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G network architectures lack flexibility and scalability in enabling end-to-end (E2E) slice selection and attachment, leading to prolonged C-plane signaling latency and resource inefficiencies, as they cannot distinguish between devices with high performance requirements and those with low performance attributes, and resources are not effectively shared among different core networks.
Innovation Solution
A novel E2E slice selection mechanism is introduced, where end devices receive broadcasted slice information from access points, allowing them to select and attach to desired slices dynamically, from radio access to core networks, thereby minimizing C-plane signaling exchange and optimizing resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a static core network architecture is used to serve all traffic, then network simplicity is maintained, but flexibility and scalability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the core network into multiple network slices, each designed to serve specific service types with tailored resource allocations and performance characteristics. This segmentation enables the network to simultaneously support diverse service requirements (e.g., eMBB, URLLC, mMTC) while maintaining overall architectural simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic network slicing capabilities that allow the network architecture to adapt and reconfigure based on service demands. Network slices can be dynamically created, modified, or terminated according to real-time requirements, transforming the static architecture into a flexible, service-adaptive system.
2Reliability
If dedicated core networks are deployed for different service types, then service-specific performance is improved, but resource sharing efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal network slicing framework where a single physical core network infrastructure supports multiple virtual network slices. Each slice is configured with specific functions and resource allocations tailored to its service type, enabling the same physical resources to serve multiple purposes efficiently while maintaining service-specific performance characteristics.
3Productivity
If manual network function allocation is used, then network control precision is maintained, but signaling latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where network slices automatically perform functions such as self-configuration, self-provisioning, and self-management. The Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) and other automated entities enable slices to independently select appropriate network functions and establish connections without extensive manual intervention, significantly reducing provisioning time and signaling latency.
4Adaptability or versatility
If network slices are created for specific use cases, then service customization is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to define and differentiate network slices. Each network slice is characterized by a set of configurable parameters including service type, performance requirements, resource allocations, and functional configurations. By systematically managing these parameters through standardized interfaces and automation, the patent enables extensive service customization while controlling network configuration complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A telecommunication network (1) is provided, comprising: a set of functions which comprises at least one access function and at least one network function; wherein the telecommunication network is configured to provide compositions of functions based on at least one access function and at least one network function, and each composition of functions is uniquely identified by an identifier; wherein the telecommunication network is further configured to provide to a terminal equipment at least one composition of functions based on at least one access function and at least one network function; wherein the telecommunication network is further configured to make available the information of the at least one composition of functions to the terminal equipment (2); wherein the information of the at least one composition of functions comprises identifier of each composition of functions of the at least one composition of functions; wherein the telecommunication network is further configured to receive a request for using at least one composition of function from the terminal equipment (2); wherein the telecommunication network (1) is further configured to respond to the request from the terminal equipment (2).