Network-Layer Application Server Rediscovery via SMF Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems lack a network mechanism for server discovery when application servers change, leading to UE inability to rediscover the new server after a change.
Innovation Solution
Implement server discovery on the network layer by obtaining information on application server change and making decisions to inform the UE to rediscover the target application server or configure the UPF to steer traffic to and from the target application server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If application server changes from source to target server, then service continuity is maintained, but UE cannot rediscover the new server without network mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the SMF (Session Management Function) as an intermediary that mediates between the AF (Application Function) and the UE (User Equipment). The SMF receives server change information from the AF and manages the redistribution of server information to the UE, enabling the UE to rediscover the target application server while maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the AF notifies the SMF about application server changes through a notification message. The SMF then uses this feedback information to update the UE with the new server details, ensuring the UE has current server information without interrupting ongoing services.
2Ease of operation
If application layer solution is used for server discovery, then server information can be exchanged, but network layer mechanism is missing for automated server re-discovery
Solution Approach 1:
The SMF acts as a network layer intermediary that simplifies the server discovery process. Instead of requiring complex UE-side implementation of server discovery mechanisms, the SMF handles the complexity of receiving server change notifications from the AF and automatically distributing updated server information to the UE.
Solution Approach 2:
The network infrastructure (SMF and AF) automatically handles server discovery and information distribution without requiring manual configuration or complex UE-side procedures. The system self-services by automatically notifying the UE of server changes through existing network signaling mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If PSA relocation occurs due to UE mobility, then application server change is triggered, but server re-discovery mechanism is not established
Solution Approach 1:
When PSA relocation occurs due to UE mobility, the AF detects this change and provides feedback to the SMF through a notification message. The SMF then uses this feedback to trigger the server re-discovery process, ensuring the UE receives updated server information and maintains reliable connections despite mobility-induced changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a preliminary notification mechanism where the AF proactively informs the SMF about server changes before the UE needs to reconnect. This preliminary action allows the network to prepare and distribute new server information to the UE in advance, ensuring seamless reconnection after mobility events.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for application server change are disclosed. A method includes obtaining information on application server change for an application when server changes to a target application server and making a decision to inform a user equipment (“UE”) to rediscover the target application server for the application or configure UPF to steer traffic to and from the target application server for the application.