Interface Function Network Element for 5G Signaling Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of communication protocol processing between the 5G core network and the radio access network leads to low signaling transmission efficiency and often results in failed signaling transmissions due to differing interface processing mechanisms between the two networks.
Innovation Solution
A signaling transmission interface compatibility method that involves obtaining capability information of the access and mobility management function network element and selecting the appropriate target interface function network element based on this information to ensure compatible signaling transmission between the radio access network and the core network, using either a non-service-oriented interface or a radio network management function network element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a non-service-oriented interface based on NGAP protocol is used for signaling transmission between AMF and RAN, then signaling transmission can be performed between different network elements, but the communication protocol processing becomes complex and signaling transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interface function network element as an intermediary between the AMF and RAN. This intermediary translates and adapts signaling messages, allowing the AMF and RAN to communicate through standardized service-oriented interfaces while handling protocol-specific complexities internally. The interface function network element acts as a mediator that resolves protocol incompatibilities without requiring changes to the core AMF or RAN architectures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the signaling transmission function by separating the interface adaptation logic from the core network elements. The interface function network element is divided into multiple functional components that handle different aspects of protocol translation, message formatting, and capability negotiation. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in specific protocol handling tasks, reducing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If capability information is obtained and processed to select the optimal interface function network element, then signaling transmission efficiency is improved, but additional information exchange and processing steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having network elements exchange and store capability information during initial registration and setup phases. The interface function network elements pre-advertise their supported protocols, interfaces, and capabilities before actual signaling transmission begins. This allows selecting the optimal interface function network element based on pre-evaluated capabilities rather than attempting multiple connections, thereby reducing time loss during operational signaling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the AMF and RAN continuously exchange capability information and performance metrics. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically selects and switches between different interface function network elements to optimize signaling transmission efficiency. The feedback loop enables the system to learn from past interactions and improve future signaling routing decisions.
Data Source
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AI summary
This application provides a signaling transmission interface compatibility method and apparatus. The method includes: A first network element obtains capability information of an access and mobility management function network element, where the capability information is used to indicate that the access and mobility management function network element has a capability of performing signaling transmission with a radio access network through a target interface function network element. The first network element selects the target interface function network element based on the capability information, where the target interface function network element is used for signaling transmission between the access and mobility management function network element and the radio access network. Therefore, according to the technical solutions provided in this application, the first network element obtains the capability information of the access and mobility management function network element, and selects the corresponding target interface function network element based on the capability information. In this way, the first network element can perform signaling transmission with the access and mobility management function network element of a core network through the target interface function network element, thereby ensuring that signaling transmission can be properly performed between the radio access network and the core network.