Network Slice Selection Using Assistance Information
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems lack an efficient method to manage network slices for signalling connections, particularly in scenarios where multiple allowed network slices are available, leading to resource allocation challenges and potential service level agreement breaches.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising at least one processor and memory configured to identify and select the appropriate network slice among multiple allowed slices for signalling connections based on received network slice selection assistance information, priority orders, and temporary slice quotas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network slices are allowed for a terminal, then network versatility and service options are improved, but network slice selection complexity and resource allocation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces network slice selection assistance information (NSSAI) as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the terminal and the network. The NSSAI contains pre-configured slice selection rules and assistance data that guide the terminal in automatically selecting appropriate network slices without requiring complex real-time negotiations, thus resolving the contradiction between providing multiple slice options and maintaining selection simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of network slice selection assistance information during terminal registration or before actual data transmission. By pre-establishing the NSSAI with relevant slice selection criteria and assistance data, the system prepares the terminal in advance with the knowledge needed to make automated slice selection decisions, eliminating the need for complex real-time selection processes
2Loss of time
If network slice selection is automated, then connection establishment speed is improved, but selection accuracy and service level agreement compliance may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the network monitors the terminal's network slice selection decisions and provides corrective feedback through updated NSSAI configurations. When automated selections deviate from service level agreement requirements, the network can adjust the assistance information to guide future selections, thus maintaining both automation speed and reliability through continuous feedback loops
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables terminals to perform self-service in network slice selection by autonomously applying the assistance information contained in the NSSAI. The terminal independently evaluates available slices against the pre-configured criteria and makes selection decisions without requiring manual intervention or complex network coordination, achieving both fast automated establishment and reliable compliance through self-service mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: identify a plurality of allowed network slices of a terminal; and select at least one network slice among the plurality of allowed network slices of the terminal to be used for at least one signalling connection.