Network Discovery and Selection Rule Generation for LTE Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity in operating user equipment (UE) in LTE networks is increased due to non-standardized procedures for selecting 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks, leading to difficulties in flexible cooperation between these networks and increased complexity for both UE and network operations.
Innovation Solution
A method for standardizing network discovery and selection (NDS) procedures, where a network node receives a request for an NDS rule, generates it based on support information from other nodes, and transmits it to the UE, including information on available networks and priorities, considering different radio access technologies (RAT) and user capabilities and location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate procedures are used for selecting 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks, then network selection coverage is comprehensive, but system complexity increases and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the selection procedures for 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks into a unified standardized procedure. The network node generates a single NDS rule that encompasses both access network types, eliminating the need for separate standardized and non-standardized procedures. This merging reduces system complexity while maintaining comprehensive network selection coverage through a single integrated mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The NDS rule generated by the network node serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides selection criteria for both 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks, incorporates priority information for different network types, and adapts to various UE capabilities and location conditions. This universal rule structure eliminates the need for separate procedures while maintaining comprehensive coverage across different access network types.
2Reliability
If separate procedures are used for selecting 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks, then specific network requirements can be addressed, but operational flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The NDS rule incorporates dynamic elements that allow the UE to adapt selection criteria based on current conditions such as UE capability, location information, and network availability. The rule includes priority information that can be dynamically applied to different access network types, enabling flexible operation while maintaining reliable selection accuracy through standardized procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes within the NDS rule to accommodate different network selection scenarios. The rule includes configurable priority information and selection criteria that can be adjusted based on UE capabilities, location, and network conditions, allowing the system to maintain operational flexibility while following standardized procedures for both 3GPP and non-3GPP networks.
3Productivity
If different access network selection schemes are used, then specific network types can be optimized, but UE and network complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The NDS rule is segmented into distinct components including priority information for different access network types, selection criteria, and condition-based parameters. This segmentation allows the UE to efficiently process specific network type requirements while maintaining overall standardized procedure compliance, reducing UE complexity through structured information organization rather than multiple separate schemes.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a network node for supporting network discovery and selection of a user equipment (UE) includes receiving a network discovery and selection (NDS) rule request message requesting an NDS rule from the UE, transmitting a policy request message requesting NDS rule generation support information for generating the NDS rule to at least another network node, receiving a policy response message including the NDS rule generation support information from the at least another network node, generating an NDS rule on the basis of the NDS rule request message and the policy response message, and transmitting an NDS rule response message including the generated NDS rule to the UE.