Inter-Operator Mobility Service for 5G Network Slicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roaming models in Next Generation wireless networks, such as 5G NR, do not effectively address deployment and managerial aspects for scenarios involving network slicing or regional restrictions, and lack unified access and admission control for users of different entities.
Innovation Solution
An inter-operator mobility service is implemented using 5G stand-alone architectures that support network slicing, with core devices managing access control based on subscription information and unique subscriber profile identifiers, and managing the use of network resources and frequencies between mobile service operators and mobile network operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing roaming models are used in Next Generation wireless networks, then basic inter-operator connectivity is maintained, but deployment and managerial aspects for network slicing and regional restrictions are not effectively addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the access and mobility management function into multiple network slices, allowing different roaming models (HR and LBO) to be instantiated within different slices. This enables tailored control policies for different service requirements while maintaining a unified core network architecture. The segmentation principle resolves the contradiction by providing versatile support for network slicing without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic selection of roaming models based on network slice type, user subscription information, and regional restrictions. The access and mobility management function can dynamically switch between home routed and local break out models, and adjust admission control policies in real-time. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to handle diverse scenarios without requiring static complex configurations for every possible case.
2Ease of operation
If unified access and admission control is implemented for users of different entities, then inter-operator mobility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal access and mobility management function that handles multiple roaming models (home routed and local break out) within a single network slice instance. The unified core network device performs multi-functional operations including authentication, authorization, mobility management, and policy control for different operator entities. This universality provides ease of operation through consistent interfaces while managing complexity through consolidated architecture rather than separate specialized systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an access and mobility management function as an intermediary between the radio access network and core network entities from different operators. This intermediary handles the complexity of inter-operator interactions, subscription verification, and roaming policy enforcement, shielding the rest of the system from complexity while providing unified access control. The mediator principle resolves the contradiction by centralizing complexity management in a dedicated intermediary component.
3Reliability
If end devices continuously scan and measure frequencies for mobility, then seamless inter-operator mobility is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the access and mobility management function provides the end device with information about available frequencies, network conditions, and recommended measurement configurations. Based on feedback about device location, service requirements, and network state, the system dynamically adjusts measurement frequency and scanning behavior. This feedback-driven approach maintains seamless mobility through timely measurements while reducing unnecessary scanning and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces continuous frequency scanning with periodic measurement cycles adjusted based on device mobility state, signal conditions, and service requirements. When the device is stationary or in stable conditions, measurement intervals are extended. During mobility events or when service quality degrades, the system triggers more frequent measurements. This periodic action with adaptive timing maintains reliability while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous scanning.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium are described in which an inter-operator mobility service is provided. The service may provide provisioning decisions and configurations that may include core devices that are shared between users of a first entity and users of a second entity or are dedicated to the users of an entity to support a network slice and/or access to an application service for end devices. The service may manage access and use of radio frequencies associated with the first and second entities based on subscription information and location of the end devices associated with first and second entities. The service may further include enabling inter-network handovers associated with end devices.