Location-Based Multicast Delivery Across Non-Multicast RAN Nodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems face challenges in delivering location-based multicast services efficiently, particularly when radio access nodes do not support multicast sessions, leading to inefficiencies in data delivery and management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a 5G system architecture that utilizes Session Management Functions (SMF) to manage multicast sessions by determining radio access node support, acquiring service area information, and employing unicast delivery with location-based notifications to ensure seamless data transmission and termination based on user equipment location changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multicast sessions are used for location-based services, then data delivery efficiency is improved, but compatibility with radio access nodes that do not support multicast is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Session Management Function (SMF) as an intermediary between the core network and radio access nodes. The SMF manages multicast sessions and determines whether RAN nodes support multicast, acting as a mediator that enables location-based multicast services even when RAN nodes lack native multicast support by coordinating between network functions and access nodes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If unicast delivery is used for location-based multicast services, then compatibility with all RAN nodes is improved, but network efficiency is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic delivery mode selection that adapts based on RAN node capabilities and UE location. The system dynamically switches between multicast and unicast delivery modes: using multicast when RAN nodes support it for efficiency, and falling back to unicast when needed for compatibility, thereby optimizing network resource usage based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making delivery decisions specific to each RAN node and service area. Different RAN nodes can handle different delivery modes based on their capabilities, and the SMF makes localized decisions about which UEs receive services via multicast versus unicast based on their location and the capabilities of serving RAN nodes.
3Reliability
If location-based notifications are implemented, then service continuity is improved, but system complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the SMF subscribes to location change notifications from the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF). When UE location changes occur, the system receives notifications and automatically adjusts delivery modes or service area configurations, providing feedback-driven service continuity without requiring complex manual intervention.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for individual delivery of location-based multicast services are provided. One method may include receiving, by a session management node, information that a user equipment is participating in a multicast session, determining that the UE is served by a radio access node that does not support multicast sessions, and determining that the multicast session is only to be delivered to one or several service areas. In response to determining that the UE is served by a radio access node not supporting multicast and that the multicast session is only to be delivered to one or several service areas, the method further comprises subscribing to at least one notification from at least one access and mobility management node.