Network Slice Selection Using Pre-Attachment Slice Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile network architectures lack flexibility and scalability, leading to inefficient resource utilization and suboptimal service delivery, as terminals connect to networks without prior knowledge of suitable network slices, resulting in unnecessary resource consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method for user terminals to receive and select network slice identifiers before connecting, allowing informed selection of network slices based on received identifiers and predetermined parameters, including operator network identifiers, to optimize resource usage and service delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If terminals connect to the network without prior knowledge of suitable network slices, then the connection process is simple, but network resources are wasted and service delivery is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by broadcasting network slice identifier information before the terminal establishes a connection. The access network device sends slice identifier lists to terminals in advance (via system information blocks or dedicated signaling), enabling terminals to perform informed selection before attachment. This resolves the contradiction by improving resource utilization through pre-knowledge of available slices while maintaining connection simplicity through automated terminal-side selection based on pre-received information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling terminals to autonomously select appropriate network slices based on their service requirements and the broadcast slice identifier information. The terminal independently compares its service needs against the received slice identifiers and automatically attaches to the most suitable slice without requiring complex network-side allocation procedures. This improves resource utilization while keeping the connection process simple from the user perspective.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network slices are implemented with dedicated functions for specific services, then service customization is improved, but network architecture complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the network into multiple independent network slices, each dedicated to specific services or service classes. Each slice contains customized network functions and resources tailored to its specific service requirements (e.g., enhanced coverage for IoT, high bandwidth for mobile broadband). This segmentation enables service customization while managing complexity through modular, independent slice architectures that can be deployed and managed separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by creating a framework where a single physical network infrastructure supports multiple virtual network slices through logical separation. The access network device and core network can simultaneously host multiple slices with different service characteristics using the same physical resources, achieving service customization without proportionally increasing physical infrastructure complexity. Virtualization techniques enable one physical network to serve multiple specialized functions.
3Speed
If terminals select network slices after connecting to the network, then the connection establishment is faster, but resource consumption increases due to suboptimal slice selection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by performing preliminary action - broadcasting network slice identifier information to terminals before connection establishment. Terminals receive and process slice information in advance, enabling them to make informed selection decisions immediately upon connection without requiring post-connection slice reassignment. This maintains fast connection establishment while ensuring optimal slice selection from the outset, preventing wasted resource consumption on inappropriate slice attachments.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for connecting a user terminal (5n) to a subset of a network dedicated to a service, called a network slice (TR1, TR2, TR3), implemented by the terminal. This method includes at least one step of receiving at least one network slice identifier (IdS3) from an access device associated with at least one identified slice (TR3), a step of selecting a network slice (TR3) based on parameters contained in the terminal, and the at least one received slice identifier (IdS3). The method further includes a step of attaching to the access device associated with the selected network slice (TR3).