GGSN PDP Context Error Handling via Policy Enforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In third-generation mobile telecommunications networks, overlapping attributes between downlink packet classifiers defined by the Policy Control Function and traffic flow templates set by user equipment can lead to packet dropping or incorrect classification, particularly when authorization of PDP contexts is required, and existing solutions like ignoring TFT or packet classifiers are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for handling connection context requests in mobile telecommunications networks that involve determining the need for binding information, supplying alternative resource levels, and informing mobile stations of changes in Quality of Service (QoS) or rejecting requests, while resolving conflicts between traffic flow parameters and packet classifiers by informing users of necessary adjustments or rejecting requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the GGSN ignores the TFT or packet classifier to resolve attribute overlap, then the authorization process is simplified, but packet dropping or incorrect classification occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter handling approach by introducing a new attribute 'packet-filter' that modifies how packet filtering is performed. Instead of ignoring conflicting attributes, the system uses parameter changes to resolve conflicts by applying specific filtering rules that ensure accurate packet classification while maintaining authorization simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the GGSN that mediates between the TFT and packet classifier attributes. This intermediary resolves conflicts by evaluating both attributes and applying a coordinated packet filtering approach, preventing both packet dropping and incorrect classification while maintaining system simplicity.
2Reliability
If binding information is required for PDP context authorization but not supplied by the UE, then authorization control is maintained, but connection establishment is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the resource level allocation when binding information is missing. Instead of completely blocking connection establishment, the system changes the resource level parameter to a default or reduced level, maintaining authorization control while allowing connections to proceed with adjusted parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by providing authorization control without requiring full binding information. The system allows PDP context establishment with partial information supply, applying sufficient authorization control measures while enabling connection establishment, rather than requiring complete binding information for all authorization decisions.
3Reliability
If the GGSN supplies a different resource level when binding information is missing, then operator policy is enforced, but the UE must be informed of changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by requiring the GGSN to inform the UE of QoS changes when resource levels are adjusted. This feedback mechanism ensures that the UE is aware of the policy enforcement actions taken, maintaining information transparency while enforcing operator policies through resource level modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for dealing with a connection context request to establish a connection between a mobile station (MS) and a network gateway element. The gateway (such as a GGSN) determines whether binding information is required, then ascertains whether such information has been supplied. If the information is not supplied, the GGSN responds to the request on the basis of a policy determined by the operator of the network. This can include, for example, rejecting the request.