Emulation Function for 4G-5G Network Interworking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication networks face challenges in interoperability and interworking between different generations, such as 4G and 5G networks, due to differences in technologies and capabilities, which hinders seamless roaming and interconnection.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an emulation function with two interfaces, one for each network, allowing for the mapping of network functions and elements between 4G and 5G networks through application programming interfaces (APIs) and network standard-specific interfaces, enabling transparent interworking without requiring support for legacy protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mobile communication networks operate according to different technologies and generations (4G, 5G), then each network can be optimized for its specific technology, but interoperability and seamless roaming between different networks deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an emulation function as an intermediary component that sits between the 5G network and 4G network. This emulation function translates and adapts signaling messages between the two different network technologies, enabling seamless interoperability without requiring direct compatibility between 4G and 5G networks. The intermediary handles protocol conversions and capability mappings, resolving the contradiction by allowing each network to remain optimized while achieving versatile interconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The emulation function is designed with multi-functionality to handle various network scenarios including roaming, interworking, and capability translation. It can emulate different 4G network functions and adapt to multiple 5G network configurations, providing universal compatibility across different network generations and technologies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If legacy protocols are supported to enable interworking with older networks, then interoperability improves, but device complexity and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring 5G networks to directly support legacy 4G protocols, the patent uses an emulation function as a mediator that handles all protocol translations. The 5G network only needs to communicate with the emulation function using modern protocols, while the emulation function manages the complexity of legacy protocol support, thereby reducing device complexity in the core 5G network.
Solution Approach 2:
The emulation function creates virtual copies or emulations of 4G network functions and protocols. Rather than implementing actual legacy protocol stacks in 5G network elements, the system uses software-based emulations that replicate 4G behavior, reducing hardware and software complexity while maintaining interworking capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex protocol translations are implemented to enable interworking between different networks, then interoperability improves, but operational efforts and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The emulation function is designed to automatically discover and adapt to the capabilities of connected networks. It performs self-configuration by detecting network types, selecting appropriate emulation profiles, and establishing translation rules without requiring manual intervention. This automation significantly reduces operational efforts while maintaining complex interworking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses parameter-based configuration where the emulation function dynamically adjusts its behavior based on detected network parameters and capabilities. By changing operational parameters rather than reconfiguring the entire system, the network can adapt to different scenarios with minimal operational effort.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for an emulation functionality between a first mobile communication network and a second mobile communication network includes: implementing, by an emulation function and its first and second interfaces using a respective plurality of emulated network functions or services and emulated network elements, an exchange of messages between the first and second mobile communication networks, thereby mapping between equivalent capabilities or needs of respective network functions or services and respective network elements and providing for: implementation of first individual interfaces or first individual interface types between the network functions or services and respective corresponding emulated network functions or services in the form of application programming interfaces (APIs); and implementation of second individual interfaces or second individual interface types between the network elements and respective corresponding emulated network elements in the form of network standard-specific interfaces or protocols.