Coordinated Network Slice Switching Across User Apparatus Groups
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack a coordinated method for controlling network slice allocation among multiple user apparatuses, particularly in configurations where they provide coordinated functions.
Innovation Solution
A communication system with a plurality of user apparatuses and core network nodes that facilitate coordinated network slice switching by transmitting switching request messages and change information among user apparatuses within a slice change group, utilizing a core network node to manage transitions between network slices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If network slice allocation is controlled individually for each user apparatus, then slice change responsiveness is improved, but coordination among multiple user apparatuses deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines individual user apparatus slice change capabilities with group coordination by introducing a slice change group concept. Multiple user apparatuses are grouped together, and when one apparatus detects a trigger condition, it initiates slice changes for the entire group through information sharing, thus merging individual responsiveness with group coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where user apparatuses share slice change information with each other and with the core network node. This feedback loop ensures that when one apparatus changes its network slice, other apparatuses in the group are notified and can coordinate their changes accordingly, maintaining both responsiveness and coordination.
2Extent of automation
If network slice switching is controlled by core network node only, then centralized control is improved, but user apparatus initiative deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables user apparatuses to perform preliminary actions by detecting trigger conditions and initiating slice change requests before the core network node is involved. The user apparatus can proactively identify when a slice change is needed and start the process, rather than waiting for core network node instructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where user apparatuses autonomously monitor their own network conditions, detect trigger conditions, and initiate slice change requests to the core network node. This allows user apparatuses to serve themselves in identifying and initiating necessary slice changes while the core network node maintains overall control and coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a communication system configuring a plurality of network slices, the communication system including a plurality of user apparatuses including first and second user apparatuses belonging to a same slice change group, and one or more core network nodes configured to control switching of a network slice to which the user apparatus belongs, the first user apparatus being configured to, in response to detection of a trigger to transition from a first network slice to a second network slice, transmit to the core network node a switching request message requesting switching to the second network slice, and transmit to the second user apparatus change information indicating that transition to the second network slice is to be performed.