Edge Location Service via UPF Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location services (LCS) in wireless communications often require exposing user equipment (UE) location data to the public network, which can be sensitive and undesirable for private enterprises.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a location service in edge computing that uses a wireless communication method involving a policy control function, user plane function, and session management function to manage and transmit location information without exposing it to the public network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If UE location data is exposed to the public network for location service calculation, then location service functionality is achieved, but data security and privacy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the location service system into multiple functional components: the location management function (LMF) remains in the public network for service coordination, while the user plane function (UPF) is deployed in the private network to handle actual location data processing. This segmentation allows location service functionality to be achieved while keeping sensitive UE location data within the private network boundary, thus resolving the contradiction between service adaptability and data security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism through the N4 interface and control plane functions that enable communication and coordination between the public network LMF and private network UPF without direct exposure of location data. The control plane messages establish rules and policies that mediate the interaction, allowing location services to function while maintaining data security isolation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If location data is kept isolated in private network for security, then data privacy is protected, but location service coordination becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the user plane function (UPF) multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its traditional data forwarding role and the additional function of location data processing in the private network. This universality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated location processing infrastructure in private networks, while still achieving data privacy protection through localized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through the control plane where the LMF sends rules and policies to the UPF via the policy control function, and the UPF provides status information and location results back to the LMF. This structured feedback loop through standardized interfaces (N4 interface) simplifies coordination complexity by providing clear communication protocols between network functions across the public-private boundary.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication method for use in a location management function is disclosed. The method comprises transmitting, to a policy control function, a rule creating message associated with a location service for the location management function, transmitting, to a user plane function, a downlink network positioning message associated with the location service of a wireless terminal, and receiving, from the user plane function, an uplink network positioning message comprising location information of the wireless terminal.