Network Slice Replacement via NSSF Notification in Roaming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently replacing network slices when existing slices cannot meet performance requirements or are overloaded, particularly in scenarios involving roaming UEs, leading to inefficiencies in signaling and lack of awareness of network slice configurations across different PLMNs.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is introduced where a Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF) determines the need for and identifies an alternative network slice, notifying the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) to facilitate a seamless replacement, minimizing per-UE signaling and ensuring service continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network slice replacement is implemented manually or through complex procedures, then service continuity can be maintained, but signaling overhead and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The NSSF autonomously determines when network slice replacement is needed and identifies alternative slices without requiring manual intervention or complex coordination procedures. The system self-manages the replacement process by automatically notifying the AMF and handling the transition, thereby maintaining service continuity while minimizing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The NSSF proactively monitors network slice conditions and determines replacement needs before service degradation occurs. By performing preliminary assessment and preparation of alternative slices, the system ensures seamless replacement without requiring complex real-time decision-making procedures
2Reliability
If per-UE signaling is used for network slice replacement notification, then service continuity is ensured, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notification mechanism merges multiple slice replacement indications into a single NSSF-to-AMF notification message. Instead of sending separate notifications for each UE, the system consolidates the replacement information at the network function level, thereby ensuring service continuity while significantly reducing signaling overhead between network elements
3Productivity
If network slice replacement is performed without centralized coordination, then operational speed increases, but network consistency and service quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The NSSF acts as a centralized intermediary that coordinates network slice replacement across the network. It receives requests from AMFs, determines replacement needs, identifies alternative slices, and notifies relevant network functions. This centralized coordination mechanism ensures network consistency and service quality while maintaining operational efficiency through automated decision-making
4Reliability
If network slice replacement requires detailed per-UE configuration updates, then service quality is maintained, but signaling overhead and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The notification mechanism segments the replacement information by network slice (S-NSSAI) rather than by individual UE. The NSSF notifies the AMF of slice replacement needs at the aggregate level, allowing the AMF to efficiently update UE configurations in batches or through streamlined procedures, thereby maintaining service quality while reducing processing time and signaling overhead
Data Source
AI summary
There is further provided a method for a first network function “NF” to determine a replacement of a network slice. The method comprises: receiving a request from a second NF for notification of when a network slice is to be replaced; determining that the network slice is to be replaced and determining an alternative network slice to replace it; and transmitting a notification message to the second NF comprising a notification that the network slice is to be replaced.