Overload Control in Packet Mobile Communication Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile communication networks face congestion and overload issues due to simultaneous demands from multiple mobile terminals and Machine to Machine (M2M) applications, particularly during peak hours, which can lead to system instability and impaired performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to throttle downlink traffic for MTC devices in idle mode during overload conditions, allowing Core Network entities like MME/S4-SGSN and SGW to reduce signaling load by dropping packets and sending ICMP 'destination unreachable' messages, thereby prioritizing regular traffic over MTC traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If downlink traffic for MTC devices in idle mode is throttled during overload conditions, then network stability and reliability are improved, but traffic delivery capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts traffic handling based on network conditions by implementing overload control mechanisms that activate during congestion. Core Network entities monitor their load and dynamically throttle downlink traffic for MTC devices in idle mode when overload conditions are detected, allowing the system to adapt its behavior to current network capacity and maintain stability while preserving traffic delivery when possible.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a huge number of MTC devices simultaneously require network resources, then service coverage and accessibility are improved, but system overload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by proactively throttling downlink traffic for MTC devices in idle mode before the network becomes completely overwhelmed. Core Network entities detect early signs of overload and preemptively reduce signaling traffic from idle MTC devices, preventing complete system collapse and maintaining service for higher priority traffic while still supporting broad MTC device coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, there is provided a method for overload control in a packet mobile communication system, said method comprising a step of:in case of overload, throttling downlink traffic received for mobile terminals in idle mode when this traffic belongs to a mobile terminal or to a mobile terminal connection declared as candidate for throttling.