Network Slice Access via Core Network Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G networks, users often face challenges in efficiently accessing network slices due to limitations in existing technologies, which can lead to service denials when the requested network slice is not provided by the current core network, resulting in inconvenient communication disruptions.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves the AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) receiving terminal and network slice support information from the UDM (Unified Data Management), allowing it to provide UE (User Equipment) with necessary network slice information, enabling efficient connection to the required network slice and service provision. This includes the AMF checking subscription information and RFSP (RAT Frequency Selection Priority) to determine if the requested network slice can be provided, and if not, suggesting alternative frequencies or network slices that can be accessed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the UE requests a network slice that is not provided by the current core network, then the UE can access the requested network slice, but the current technology results in service denial and communication disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new dimension of operation by enabling the UE to access network slices through a different core network than the one currently serving it. When the current core network cannot provide the requested network slice, the UE is redirected to another core network that can, effectively adding a dimensional alternative for network slice access rather than simply denying service.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary mechanism in the form of network redirection or handover procedures. The current core network acts as an intermediary that recognizes when it cannot fulfill the UE's network slice request and facilitates transition to another core network that can provide the required service, thereby maintaining service availability.
2Reliability
If the UE is redirected to another core network to access the required network slice, then service availability is improved, but the complexity of the network access procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the network access mechanism to handle multiple scenarios through a unified procedure. The same redirection and handover procedures are used whether the UE is moving between cells, changing network slices, or switching core networks, simplifying the overall system design despite the increased capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the UE with information about multiple core networks and their supported network slices. Before service denial occurs, the UE is already prepared with alternative core network options, enabling faster and smoother transitions without requiring complex real-time decision-making procedures.
3Reliability
If the AMF provides alternative network slice information to the UE, then communication reliability is improved, but the information management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the UE to autonomously manage its own network slice information. The UE maintains local records of available network slices, supported frequencies, and associated core networks, allowing it to make independent decisions about which network to access without requiring constant network controller intervention, thereby reducing information management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network provides the UE with information about supported network slices and frequencies, and the UE uses this feedback to select appropriate networks. The system continuously updates this information based on network conditions and UE capabilities, creating a closed-loop information management system that reduces complexity through intelligent adaptation.
Data Source
AI summary
One disclosure of the present specification provides a method by which a network allows user equipment (UE) to communicate. The method comprises the steps of: receiving, from the UE, a registration request message including a provision request for a specific network slice; determining whether the network can provide a service for the specific network slice to the UE, on the basis of i) the registration request message, ii) the specific network slice, iii) subscription information and the like about the UE; and transmitting a response message to a base station on the basis of the network not being able to provide the service for the specific network slice to the UE, wherein the response message includes information about the rejection of the provision request for the specific network slice, and the response message can include network slice support information related to the specific network slice.