Network Slice Re-Mapping for Continuous 5G Handover Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network slicing technologies in 5G networks often result in service discontinuity due to limited availability of network slices in certain deployment scenarios, leading to termination of user equipment (UE) sessions when moving between cells that do not support the required network slices or when resources are insufficient.
Innovation Solution
Implementing slice re-mapping techniques that allow for the dynamic re-utilization of network slices by identifying mobility scenarios and utilizing both base stations and core networks to perform slice re-mapping, ensuring continuous service through methods such as RAN-side and core network-side re-mapping, and selecting appropriate slices based on available resources and supported slice information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network slicing is implemented to meet differentiated business requirements, then service customization and resource utilization are improved, but service continuity deteriorates when moving between cells with different slice availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic slice remapping where the network slice assigned to a UE can change based on the target cell's capabilities. During handover, if the target cell doesn't support the original slice, the system dynamically remaps the UE to a different supported slice, making the slice assignment flexible rather than static throughout the mobility process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the core network (specifically the AMF) as an intermediary that coordinates slice remapping between RAN nodes. The AMF receives slice remapping indicators from target RAN nodes, determines appropriate remapping actions, and manages the PDU session modifications to ensure seamless service continuity during handovers
2Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated network slices are created for specific scenarios, then service requirements are met, but resource waste increases due to limited slice availability in certain cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables network slices to serve multiple functions and multiple UEs across different cells. A single network slice can be shared by multiple UEs and can be dynamically allocated to different cells based on demand, making the slice infrastructure universal rather than dedicated to specific scenarios or locations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the slice assignment parameters dynamically based on cell capabilities and UE mobility. Instead of fixed slice-to-cell mappings, the system adjusts slice assignments in real-time during handovers, changing the parameter of which slice serves which UE based on current network conditions and cell support
3Device complexity
If network slices are limited in certain deployment scenarios, then resource allocation is simplified, but service termination occurs when UEs move to cells without required slices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary slice remapping preparation during the handover process. The source RAN node sends a handover request to the target RAN node that includes information about the UE's current slice, allowing the target node to prepare appropriate remapping actions in advance before the actual handover executes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a cushioning mechanism where the core network prepares alternative slice assignments before service termination would occur. By having pre-configured remapping options and maintaining PDU session states during handover, the system cushions against potential service interruptions that would otherwise occur when moving to cells with different slice availability
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices related to digital wireless communication, and more specifically, to techniques related to sending, by a first network node to a second network node, a first message including information for handling access and mobility management tasks associated with a mobile device, wherein the first network node is serving a mobile device in a coverage area of the first network node; and determining, at the first network node, based on a response message from a second network node, information of one or more resources available to the mobile device from the second network node in a case that the one or more resources are re-mappable from the first network node.