Multi VLAN Service for D2D Communication in 5G Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face limitations in device-to-device (D2D) communication due to network address translation (NAT) constraints and the 5G LAN-Type Service's 1:1 ratio between Data Network (DN) and device communication groups, which restricts the formation of dedicated local area networks (LANs) in mobile environments, especially for IoT communications.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for establishing multiple virtual local area networks (VLANs) without a data network, allowing user equipment to form VLAN groups and communicate within these networks without relying on a physical data network, through the use of VLAN routing information and session management functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 5G LAN-Type Service is used for device-to-device communication, then communication without Data Network is enabled, but only one virtual group per DN can be formed due to 1:1 ratio constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network architecture by introducing a Virtual Network Instance (VNI) layer between the Data Network and device-to-device communication groups. This segmentation allows multiple virtual groups to be formed per DN by mapping each virtual group to a unique VNI, effectively breaking the 1:1 ratio constraint while maintaining manageable network configuration through centralized VNI management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the network architecture by introducing Virtual Network Instances as an intermediate layer. This dimensional addition transforms the original 1:1 mapping relationship into a many-to-one relationship (multiple virtual groups mapping to one DN through unique VNIs), enabling multiple virtual groups per DN without increasing DN complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If NAT environment is used for internet network devices, then IP resource limitation is addressed, but device-to-device communication is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces User Plane Functions (UPF) as intermediary elements that enable direct device-to-device communication paths bypassing the NAT gateway. This intermediary mechanism allows devices in NAT environments to communicate directly by establishing peer-to-peer tunnels through UPF, maintaining IP address utilization efficiency while eliminating NAT communication constraints.
3Reliability
If dedicated internal network is established for IoT communications, then communication reliability is improved, but network deployment complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the 5G core network infrastructure universal by enabling it to provide both public internet access and dedicated IoT communication services through the same network fabric. By using Virtual Network Instances to create isolated virtual groups within the shared infrastructure, the system achieves dedicated network reliability without requiring separate physical networks, thereby simplifying deployment and reducing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method and apparatus for providing a multi virtual local area network service to user equipments. The method may include storing VLAN routing information that includes user equipment information, which is information on user equipments subscribing to the multi VLAN service, and session information; receiving data from a first user equipment and extracting user equipment information and session information from the received data; determining whether the extracted user equipment information and session information is included in the VLAN routing information; determining the received data as a VLAN routing target if the extracted user equipment information and session information is included in the VLAN routing information; and transmitting the received data to a second user equipment corresponding to a destination of the received data based on the VLAN routing information