MBS Charging Updates Using Triggers and Usage Reports
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 4G mobile communication networks, there is no multicast mode for enhanced multimedia broadcast/multicast service (eMBMS), leading to operators' inability to charge users receiving broadcast service data directly, while 5G multicast/broadcast services require a new charging method to address this.
Innovation Solution
A communication method involving network elements like CHF, SMF, and CTF to generate and exchange messages containing MBS identifiers, triggers, and usage reports to optimize charging by updating charging information based on user interactions with multicast/broadcast services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If 4G eMBMS broadcast mode is used, then service delivery is simple, but operator cannot charge users directly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the charging function from the service delivery function by introducing a CHF (Charging Function) network element. The SMF (Session Management Function) handles service delivery while the CHF independently handles charging operations, allowing each function to be optimized separately and enabling user-specific charging in broadcast services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary charging mechanism where the CHF acts as a mediator between the SMF and the billing system. The SMF sends usage information to the CHF, which then processes charging rules and generates billing information, enabling indirect user charging without complicating the service delivery path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 5G multicast/broadcast service is implemented, then user charging is required, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the CHF with multi-functionality to handle both broadcast and multicast charging uniformly. The charging mechanism works for both eMBMS broadcast services and 5G multicast services through the same architectural framework, avoiding the need for separate charging systems and reducing overall network complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary charging rule configuration where charging rules are pre-established in the CHF before service delivery. The SMF retrieves these pre-configured rules during service operation, avoiding real-time complex calculations and reducing operational network complexity.
3Measurement precision
If real-time charging updates are performed, then fee collection accuracy improves, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic charging updates where the SMF sends usage information to the CHF at predetermined intervals or at specific triggering events (service start, stop, or threshold-based events). This periodic mechanism ensures accurate fee collection while avoiding excessive signaling compared to continuous real-time updates.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus comprises a first network element that receives a first message from a second network element, where the first message includes an identifier of a first multicast/broadcast service (MBS) and at least one of the following information: a trigger of the first message, a delivery method of the first MBS, or a usage report of a terminal joining the first MBS for the first MBS. The first network element updates charging information of the first MBS based on the first message. The communication apparatus can implement a multicast service or a broadcast service.