Network Slice Re-mapping for RAN Congestion Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems lack an effective mechanism to inform the core network of congestion in specific network slices within the RAN and to seamlessly transition users to alternative slices, ensuring service continuity during mobility or congestion events.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of network slice mapping configuration information and slice update assistance information elements, which allow for automatic, notification-based, or consent-based re-mapping of network slices, enabling the RAN to dynamically manage QoS and maintain service continuity by switching to alternative slices with compatible or upgraded capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RAN automatically re-maps users to alternative network slices without user consent, then service continuity is maintained during congestion events, but user control and service quality assurance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the re-mapping mechanism based on user equipment capabilities and network conditions. UEs with slice update assistance capability trigger automatic re-mapping, while others require explicit consent, allowing the system to adapt its behavior to different scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a capability parameter (slice update assistance) that changes the system behavior. When this parameter is present in the UE, the network operates in automatic re-mapping mode; when absent, it operates in consent-based mode, thereby resolving the contradiction through parameter-driven adaptation
2Adaptability or versatility
If the RAN implements consent-based re-mapping for network slices, then user control and service quality assurance are maintained, but service continuity during congestion events deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network performs preliminary assessment of alternative slice availability and compatibility before requesting user consent. This preliminary action ensures that when consent is obtained, the re-mapping can proceed immediately with service continuity maintained, resolving the contradiction between user control and service continuity
3Reliability
If the core network is informed of congestion in specific network slices, then appropriate re-mapping decisions can be made, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces slice update assistance information as an intermediary mechanism that streamlines communication between the RAN and core network. This standardized information element enables efficient congestion signaling and re-mapping coordination without requiring complex custom protocols, resolving the contradiction between effective congestion management and system complexity
Data Source
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Figure 4A
AI summary
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for congestion management and service continuity. In some example embodiment, there may be provided a method comprising sending, by a user equipment, an indication of whether the user equipment supports an automatic re-mapping of a network slice to a fallback network slice; and receiving, by the user equipment, an acknowledgment from a network in response to the sent indication. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed.