NWDAF UPF Congestion Analytics in 5G Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current congestion detection techniques in 5G networks are complex and require involvement of multiple network functions, leading to undesirable latency and inaccuracy in traffic optimization.
Innovation Solution
A method for the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) to receive traffic-related information from the User Plane Function (UPF), compute analytics for user plane traffic congestion, and send the results back to the UPF for traffic optimization, thereby simplifying and automating the congestion detection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current congestion detection techniques are used, then congestion information can be obtained, but the process becomes complex and introduces undesirable latency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the congestion detection function from the complex multi-network-function involvement and consolidates it within the UPF. By taking out the essential detection capability and placing it locally at the UPF, the system reduces overall process complexity while maintaining measurement precision through direct local monitoring of packet characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The UPF performs self-service by autonomously detecting congestion conditions based on its own observed packet characteristics without requiring continuous coordination with multiple other network functions. This self-service approach eliminates the complexity of inter-function coordination while maintaining accurate congestion detection.
2Reliability
If multiple network functions are involved in congestion detection, then comprehensive monitoring is achieved, but latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the congestion detection function from the broader network function coordination and implements it as a localized capability within the UPF. This segmentation allows comprehensive monitoring to be achieved at the point of traffic processing without the latency introduced by multi-function handoffs and coordination protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The UPF performs preliminary congestion detection actions locally at the point of traffic processing, analyzing packet characteristics in real-time as they pass through the UPF. This preliminary action eliminates the need for subsequent coordination steps with other network functions, thereby reducing detection latency while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
3Loss of information
If traditional congestion detection is used, then network-wide visibility is obtained, but traffic optimization becomes less timely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling the UPF to detect congestion and optimize traffic locally at the point of processing, rather than relying on centralized network-wide visibility. This local optimization approach maintains timeliness by acting immediately on detected congestion conditions, while network visibility is preserved through the UPF's local observations of packet characteristics.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for a network data analytics function (NWDAF) of a communication network. Such methods include receiving, from user plane function (UPF) of the communications network, a first subscription request for an analytic related to user plane (UP) traffic congestion and sending to the UPF a second subscription request for information related to traffic between the UPF and a radio access network (RAN). Such methods also include receiving the traffic-related information from the UPF, in accordance with the second subscription request, and computing the analytic related to UP traffic congestion, based on the received traffic-related information. Such methods also include sending the computed analytic to the UPF, in accordance with the first subscription request. Embodiments also include complementary methods for UPFs, as well as NWDAFs and UPFs configured to perform such methods.