Network Repository Function for Mobile Node Parameter Sharing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile communication systems lack an efficient mechanism for nodes to share and update parameters or capabilities, such as cell configuration and load, without direct interfaces, especially between nodes of different generations or within the same RAN-Based Notification Area.

Innovation Solution

A network repository function within the mobile communication system that enables nodes to register, discover, and subscribe to updates of parameters or capabilities, using service-based architecture principles, allowing nodes to share information and receive notifications about changes in parameters like network slice information, cell load, and Access and Mobility Management Function characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If nodes communicate directly to share parameters, then information sharing is efficient, but direct interfaces are required which complicates system architecture

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter sharing efficiencyVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a centralized repository function as an intermediary that stores and manages node parameters. Instead of nodes communicating directly, they query and update parameters through this mediator, eliminating the need for direct interfaces between nodes while maintaining efficient information sharing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The repository function serves multiple purposes: storing parameters, providing discovery services, enabling subscriptions, and facilitating updates. This universal component handles all parameter-related operations for different node types and scenarios, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Loss of information

If nodes discover parameters on-demand, then information is available when needed, but discovery latency increases system response time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter availabilityVSAvoiddiscovery latency

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Nodes perform preliminary registration of their parameters with the repository function in advance. This preliminary action ensures that parameter information is already available in the repository when other nodes need to discover it, eliminating discovery latency while maintaining on-demand access.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements subscription-based feedback mechanisms where nodes are automatically notified when parameters change. This feedback loop ensures nodes receive real-time updates without continuous polling, maintaining parameter availability while minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If all node parameters are registered centrally, then information sharing is comprehensive, but repository function complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinformation sharing coverageVSAvoidrepository function complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the repository function into modular components that handle different parameter types and node categories separately. This segmentation allows comprehensive parameter registration while managing complexity through organized, manageable modules rather than a monolithic structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system manages complexity by focusing on parameter changes rather than static parameter storage. The repository function is designed to efficiently track and notify about changes, using change-detection mechanisms that reduce the computational burden of managing comprehensive parameter sets.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If nodes update parameters frequently, then information remains current, but network traffic and processing overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter currencyVSAvoidprocessing overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous updates, the system uses periodic registration and change-triggered updates. Nodes register their parameters periodically or when changes occur, and the repository function processes updates only when necessary, maintaining parameter currency while reducing processing overhead and energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS20240056788A1Mobile communication system

Publication Date: 2024.02.15 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY

AI summary

A method, apparatus and computer program is described comprising: receiving a first register request from a first node of a mobile communication system at a network repository function of a mobile communication system, wherein the first register request registers parameters or capabilities of the first node in the network repository function to enable the network repository function to provide information relating to said parameters or capabilities to a second node of the mobile communications system, wherein at least one of the first and the second node is an access node of the mobile communication system.