5G Access Node Network Slice Redirection for Service Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G systems face challenges in maintaining service continuity during handovers when the network slice with active PDU Sessions is not supported by the target cells.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an access network node, a user equipment, a network function node, and a control method that enable the UE to steer itself in connected mode by performing a redirection procedure from a first cell to a second cell that supports alternative network slice information, in case the original slice is not available.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the UE performs handover to a target cell that does not support the current network slice, then the handover procedure can be completed, but the service continuity is broken and PDU Sessions are released
Solution Approach 1:
The network function node provides alternative network slice information to the access network node before the handover occurs. The access network node uses this pre-provided alternative slice information to redirect the UE to a target cell that supports the alternative network slice, thereby preventing service interruption before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The access network node acts as an intermediary between the UE and the network function node during handover. It receives alternative network slice information from the network function node and uses this information to perform redirection to a suitable target cell, mediating the handover process to ensure service continuity.
2Reliability
If the UE stays in the current cell to maintain network slice support, then service continuity is maintained, but mobility and access to new cells are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the network slice parameter dynamically during handover. When the target cell does not support the current network slice, the access network node redirects the UE using alternative network slice information, allowing the UE to access new cells while maintaining service continuity through slice redirection.
3Ease of operation
If the system releases PDU Sessions when network slice is not supported, then the handover can proceed, but data transmission is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The access network node serves as an intermediary that receives alternative network slice information from the network function node and uses it to redirect the UE to a target cell supporting the alternative slice. This mediation prevents PDU Session release and maintains data transmission continuity throughout the handover process.
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an access network node, a user equipment, a network function node and a control method capable of steering a UE in connected mode. In one example aspect, a control method for an access network node includes: receiving, from a network function node for mobility management, at least one first network slice information, each of which is different from a second network slice information being used for a Protocol Data Unit, PDU, session with a user equipment, UE; and performing a redirection procedure for the UE from a first cell to a second cell which supports one of the at least one first network slice information in a case where the second network slice information is not available in the first cell.