Multi-Access Header Compression With SMF-Based PDU Session Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing data flow via multiple access networks, particularly in handling different types of traffic and ensuring optimal steering and splitting of data packets across various access networks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method involving a session management function (SMF) that receives requests for multi-access packet data unit (MA PDU) sessions, sets PDU session types as IPv4, IPv6, or IPv4v6, and employs steering functionalities like MPQUIC-E for Ethernet traffic, along with policy and charging control rules, to manage data flow across 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If header compression is applied to data flow via multiple access networks, then data transmission efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to managing different access types (3GPP and non-3GPP)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data flow management by creating separate header compression contexts for 3GPP access and non-3GPP access. The SMF generates different PDU session types (IPv4, IPv6, or unstructured) depending on the access type, allowing independent header compression handling for each access network segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The Session Management Function (SMF) acts as an intermediary that receives PDU session establishment requests, determines the appropriate PDU session type based on access network characteristics, and configures header compression parameters. This intermediary role simplifies the overall system by centralizing the decision-making logic for multi-access header compression.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PDU session types (IPv4, IPv6, unstructured) are supported for different access networks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic PDU session type selection where the SMF determines whether to use IPv4, IPv6, or unstructured PDU sessions based on the specific access network type and traffic characteristics. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize for each access type while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key parameters (PDU session type, header compression configuration) based on the access network type. For 3GPP access, IPv4 or IPv6 sessions with appropriate header compression are used, while non-3GPP access may use unstructured sessions with different compression parameters, allowing optimization for each access type.
3Productivity
If steering functionality (MPQUIC-E) is implemented for Ethernet traffic, then data flow optimization is improved, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of steering functionality parameters during PDU session establishment. The SMF pre-configures MPQUIC-E parameters and steering rules based on the access type and traffic characteristics, so that actual data flow steering can occur efficiently without complex real-time decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service steering where the UE and network elements automatically apply the configured MPQUIC-E parameters and steering rules to optimize Ethernet traffic flow without requiring manual intervention or complex centralized control during data transmission.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting higher data transmission rates. A method and apparatus for transmitting a message in a wireless communication system provide: receiving, from a UE, a first message including an indication of a request type and a PDU session type, wherein the request type is associated with a request for a MA PDU session; receiving, from a PCF, a second message including PCC rules, wherein the PCC rules include MA PDU session control information; setting the PDU session type as an IPv4, an IPv6, or an IPv4v6 when the PDU session type is set to Ethernet and a steering functionality parameter in the MA PDU session control information is set to a MPQUIC-E; and transmitting, to a RAN, a third message including the PDU session type.