Non-3GPP Access Path Switching for Seamless MA PDU Sessions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 3GPP specifications do not provide clear procedures for switching data traffic of a multiaccess protocol data unit (MA PDU) session between two non-3GPP access paths within the same Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN).
Innovation Solution
Implement procedures for switching data traffic of an MA PDU session between two non-3GPP access paths, utilizing apparatus, systems, and methods that involve sending registration requests to an access management function (AMF) for path switching and deregistering the previous access network upon successful transition to the new access network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If clear procedures for switching data traffic between two non-3GPP access paths within the same PLMN are implemented, then adaptability and versatility of the network are improved, but device complexity and procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The path switching procedure is segmented into distinct phases: initial registration on first non-3GPP access path, secondary registration on second non-3GPP access path, traffic switching execution, and deregistration of first path. Each phase is handled by specific network functions (AMF, SMF, UPF) with dedicated responsibilities, making the complex overall process manageable through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The Access Management Function (AMF) acts as an intermediary that coordinates the path switching process. It receives registration requests from the UE, determines the need for path switching, and triggers the appropriate procedures. The Session Management Function (SMF) serves as another intermediary that manages the session context and coordinates with the User Plane Function (UPF) to execute the actual traffic path switching.
2Ease of operation
If path switching procedures are established for non-3GPP access paths, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The User Equipment (UE) autonomously performs path switching by initiating secondary registration on the target non-3GPP access path and indicating the path switch requirement. The network functions automatically detect the switching need and execute the procedure without manual intervention, making the system easy to operate while the internal complexity is handled automatically by the devices and network functions.
3Reliability
If registration request messages are sent to AMF for path switching, then reliability of path switching is improved, but loss of time due to additional signaling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UE performs preliminary actions by sending the secondary registration request on the target non-3GPP access path before actual traffic switching occurs. The network functions prepare the session context and coordinate resource allocation in advance. This preliminary preparation ensures reliable switching while minimizing the actual traffic interruption time, as the groundwork is laid before the switch executes.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for path switching between non-3GPP access paths. One apparatus includes a processor coupled to a transceiver, the processor configured to establish a multiaccess data connection using a first access network and a second access network, where the apparatus has a first registration with a communication network over the second access network. The processor sends a second registration request message that indicates a path switch of the multiaccess data connection from the second access network to the third access network. The processor switches traffic of the multiaccess data connection from the second access network to the third access network and deregisters the first registration in response to switching the traffic of the multiaccess data connection to the third access network.