LIPA Context Management for Local IP Access Traffic

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing local Internet Protocol access (LIPA) traffic and mobility, particularly in distinguishing between conventional and LIPA packet data network connections, and terminating LIPA contexts when user equipment (UE) handovers occur.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves mechanisms to identify and manage LIPA contexts by determining the type of packet data network connection requests, identifying local gateways associated with LIPA traffic, and initiating or terminating LIPA packet data network connections as needed, using access point names and domain name system queries to establish and maintain LIPA connectivity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional packet data network connection management is used, then network connectivity is provided, but LIPA traffic cannot be distinguished and managed separately

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveLIPA traffic management capabilityVSAvoidconnection management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments packet data network connections into two distinct types: conventional PDN connections and LIPA PDN connections. This segmentation is achieved by introducing separate identification mechanisms (LIPA indicator bits, specific APN configurations) and separate management procedures for LIPA contexts, allowing the system to distinguish and handle LIPA traffic differently from conventional traffic while maintaining overall network management structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary elements such as LIPA indicators, LIPA APN configurations, and local gateway identifiers that act as mediators between the UE connection request and the network's packet data network gateway. These intermediaries carry specific information that enables the network to identify and route LIPA traffic appropriately without requiring complete redesign of the connection management system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If LIPA contexts are maintained during handover, then connectivity is preserved, but unnecessary LIPA contexts consume network resources

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnectivity during handoverVSAvoidnetwork resource consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network monitors UE handover events and LIPA context validity. When a handover occurs, the network receives feedback about the new serving base station and evaluates whether the existing LIPA context remains valid. This feedback-driven approach enables dynamic maintenance or termination of LIPA contexts based on actual connectivity needs, preventing wasteful resource consumption while ensuring connectivity when appropriate

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes LIPA context management dynamic by allowing contexts to be created, maintained, or terminated based on real-time network conditions and handover events. The system transitions from static context allocation to dynamic context management where LIPA contexts are actively monitored and adjusted according to UE mobility and network state, optimizing both connectivity and resource efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Illumination intensity

If LIPA connectivity is established, then indoor coverage is improved, but interference from dense subscriber-deployed base stations increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindoor signal coverageVSAvoidinterference from dense deployments

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts LIPA traffic from the conventional packet data network routing path and directs it through a separate local gateway interface. By taking out LIPA traffic from the main network routing, the system enables local traffic to be handled within the subscriber's premises through the L-GW, reducing the need for dense base station deployments and thereby reducing interference while maintaining improved indoor coverage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS9480092B2Establishing packet data network connectivity for local internet protocol access traffic

Publication Date: 2016.10.25 QUALCOMM INC

AI summary

Providing for establishment of local Internet Protocol access (LIPA) for cellular communication is provided herein. According to particular aspects of the subject disclosure, provided are mechanisms to identify a request to establish a packet network connection as a request for a LIPA context. Once identified, a local gateway associated with the UE or with a subscriber-deployed base station is identified, and a packet context is established to support LIPA traffic for the UE. Additional mechanisms support UE mobility from one base station to another, including identifying and terminating inactive LIPA contexts. Further, a UE is described that can recognize and facilitate the establishment of a LIPA context for applications executing at the UE.