Network Node Access Type Determination via Timestamp Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
In mobile networks, existing technologies face challenges in efficiently controlling voice communication for user equipment (UE) when transitioning between WLAN and cellular network access, as the Terminating Access Domain Selection (T-ADS) functionality cannot determine whether the UE is connected via WLAN or cellular networks, leading to potential issues with IMS voice call termination.
Innovation Solution
A method where network nodes record and share the time of the last radio contact event with respect to WLAN or cellular access, allowing determination of the current access type and enabling controlled service provision to the UE.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If IP addresses are preserved during handovers between WLAN and cellular networks, then service continuity is improved, but the ability to determine current access type deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network node records the time of the last radio contact event for each access type (WLAN and cellular) before handover occurs. This preliminary recording of timestamp information enables subsequent determination of current access type even when IP addresses are preserved and UE context is maintained across handovers.
Solution Approach 2:
A timestamp indicator is introduced as an intermediary parameter to bridge the gap between service continuity requirements and access type determination needs. The timestamp serves as a mediator that does not interfere with IP address preservation while providing the necessary information to identify current access type through comparison with recorded timestamps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If T-ADS functionality is implemented to select between CS and PS access networks, then voice call termination capability is improved, but the complexity of determining current access type worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The access type determination function is extracted from the complex T-ADS decision-making process. By separately recording timestamps for each access type and using simple timestamp comparison, the determination mechanism is simplified and decoupled from the overall T-ADS functionality, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes from using complex context analysis for access type determination to using simple timestamp parameter comparison. This parameter change simplifies the determination process while maintaining the ability to support multiple access types and voice call termination capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A network node controls communication of user equipment in a mobile network with cellular network access and wireless local area network access. The network node receives from a further network node, information concerning a wireless local area network access to which the user equipment is attached and information concerning a cellular network access to which the user equipment is attached. On the basis of the received information, the network node controls whether to provide at least one service via the wireless local area network access or via the cellular network access.