Network Charging Controller for SDN EPC Universality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network charging systems in Evolved Packet Core (EPC) networks are complex and costly, lacking universality due to the integration of Charging Trigger Function, Charging Data Function, and Charging Gateway Function, which are not adaptable for the new generation of mobile communication networks with separated control and forwarding planes.
Innovation Solution
A method and controller for network charging that involves receiving user state information and charging strategy information, configuring a flow table for a universal gateway, and processing charging information, enabling simple and cost-effective charging in Software-Defined Network (SDN) EPC networks by utilizing a data centre management network element and mobility management network element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If charging functions (CTF, CDF, CGF) are integrated in PGW as in prior art, then charging processing can be performed, but device complexity increases and universality is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the charging functions by separating the control plane (controller) from the forwarding plane (UGW). The controller handles charging processing logic while the UGW handles packet forwarding, eliminating the need to integrate CTF, CDF, and CGF in the PGW. This segmentation reduces device complexity and improves universality of the gateway device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal gateway (UGW) that can perform both packet forwarding and work with the controller for charging functions. The UGW is not dedicated solely to forwarding but can be universally applied in SDN EPC networks with enhanced functionality through controller interaction, improving adaptability and versatility.
2Productivity
If Open Flow protocol is applied to EPC network elements, then fast introduction of new network functions is achieved, but control and forwarding separation is affected and existing functions are impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a segmented architecture where the controller (using Open Flow protocol) is separated from the UGW. This allows the controller to rapidly introduce new network functions through software programming while the UGW maintains stable, standardized forwarding functions. The segmentation protects existing forwarding functions from being affected by protocol changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the Open Flow protocol and the EPC network elements. It translates high-level charging and forwarding policies into specific flow table entries for the UGW, enabling fast function introduction while maintaining stability of existing network element functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for network charging, which includes: user state information is received from a mobility management network element and charging strategy information is received from a charging rule network element, then a charging resource request message containing the charging strategy information, the user state information and information of a universal gateway (UGW) are sent to a data centre management network element; information of a processing network element is received from the data centre management network element; a flow table for the UGW is configured according to the information of the processing network element, and the configured flow table is sent to the UGW; and charging processing information fed back from the data centre management network element is received when the processing network element charges for a traffic flow. The disclosure further provides a controller for network charging.