Network-Controlled Path Switching for 5G Proximity Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
The 5G system lacks efficient mechanisms for network-controlled path selection and switching between Uu and PC5 interfaces, particularly for proximity-based services, which hinders the support of Mission Critical services and other applications requiring seamless communication and charging solutions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of methods and systems for path switching and network-controlled interactive services, including mechanisms for switching between direct and indirect paths, multi-hop relay enhancements, and procedures for UE-to-NCIS group joining, charging information collection, and lawful intercept, to enable seamless data traffic routing between UEs via 5GC or PC5 paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If path switching mechanisms are implemented between Uu and PC5 interfaces, then service continuity and QoS are improved, but device complexity and system architecture complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network entity (SMF/AMF) acts as an intermediary to control and coordinate path switching between Uu and PC5 interfaces. The network receives path switch requests, determines the appropriate path based on QoS requirements, and instructs the UE to switch paths, thereby managing the complexity centrally rather than distributing it across multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between direct path (Uu interface) and indirect path (PC5 interface) based on real-time QoS requirements and network conditions. The path selection is not static but adapts to changing service requirements, enabling flexible support for different proximity-based services
2Reliability
If network-controlled path selection is implemented for proximity services, then service quality and QoS are improved, but control mechanism complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the control parameter from autonomous UE path selection to network-controlled path selection. The network entity receives QoS parameters for proximity services and uses these parameters to determine the appropriate communication path, thereby ensuring QoS requirements are met through centralized parameter management
Solution Approach 2:
The UE provides feedback to the network about its proximity service requirements and current path status. The network uses this feedback to make informed path switching decisions, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing service conditions while maintaining QoS guarantees
3Reliability
If path switching between direct and indirect paths is enabled, then user experience interruption is minimized, but path switching mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network performs preliminary path determination before actual path switching occurs. The SMF/AMF receives the path switch request, determines the target path in advance based on QoS requirements, and prepares the necessary switching instructions before executing the switch, thereby minimizing interruption to user experience
Data Source
AI summary
A 5G network may support path switch mechanisms from a direct path to an indirect path to the network, and vice versa. Methods and systems are disclosed for performing the path switching process.