MSC Server Selection via TMSI NRI Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CS fallback solutions in wireless communication systems lead to heavy signaling and inefficient MSC server selection, causing unnecessary load and delays in network operations, especially when users switch between GSM/WCDMA and LTE networks.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to minimize signaling load by embedding information about the serving MSC server in the TMSI, specifically using the NRI field, which allows for efficient MSC server selection and reduces unnecessary re-selection during network handovers, enabling better load balancing across network nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If random MSC server selection is used during UE attachment to LTE network, then any MSC server can be selected without prior coordination, but heavy signaling is generated and unnecessary load is created on the network
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies preliminary action by including MSC server selection information in the TMSI before the UE attaches to the LTE network. The MME retrieves this pre-configured information from the HSS during attachment, eliminating the need for random selection and subsequent signaling exchanges. This resolves the contradiction by establishing the MSC server assignment in advance, reducing signaling overhead while maintaining operational flexibility.
2Productivity
If MSC server re-selection is performed during handover between GSM/WCDMA and LTE networks, then load balancing can be achieved, but delays and instability occur during handover operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention resolves this contradiction by performing MSC server selection in advance and storing the information in the TMSI. During handover between GSM/WCDMA and LTE networks, the MME retrieves the pre-determined MSC server information from the HSS using the TMSI, avoiding re-selection delays. Load balancing is achieved through the initial selection process, while handover operations proceed without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements feedback by having the MME query the HSS for MSC server information based on the TMSI provided by the UE. This feedback mechanism ensures that the correct pre-selected MSC server is identified during attachment and handover, maintaining consistency across network transitions while avoiding unnecessary re-selection and associated delays.
3Reliability
If consistent MSC server management is implemented across different networks, then network stability improves, but complex coordination between network elements is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses the HSS as an intermediary to manage MSC server information centrally. The HSS stores and provides consistent MSC server selection information to the MME based on the UE's TMSI, ensuring network stability across GSM/WCDMA and LTE networks. This intermediary approach simplifies coordination by centralizing the management function, reducing the complexity of direct peer-to-peer coordination between network elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for delivering information on a serving mobile switching center server for an user equipment between a first communication network and a second communication network. The method includes a step of requesting an attachment of the user equipment to the second communication network by signaling between the user equipment and a network node of the second communication network, the signaling including at least part of information on the mobile switching center server serving the user equipment in the first communication network. Additionally, an user equipment and a network node implementing the aspects of the method are described.