5G UE Paging Procedure Using Shortened Network Slice IDs

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Solution Overview

Problem

The implementation of network slicing in 5G NR systems is unclear, particularly regarding how to efficiently support multiple network slices and optimize network services for diverse use cases, due to the lack of detailed solutions for improved paging and connection procedures.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves an improved paging procedure and AS connection method where user equipment (UE) determines the intended network slice based on explicit or implicit identification information in the paging message, using either explicit signaling within the paging record or implicit signaling through transmission parameters, and the use of a shortened network slice ID to reduce air interface overhead.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If explicit signaling is used in paging messages to identify network slices, then network slice identification accuracy is improved, but air interface overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork slice identification accuracyVSAvoidair interface overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by differentiating between explicit and implicit signaling approaches for different network slice identification scenarios. Explicit signaling (including NSSAI in paging records) is used when precise network slice identification is required, while implicit signaling (using transmission parameters) is used when overhead needs to be reduced. This allows the system to apply the appropriate signaling method locally based on specific requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by allowing the network to dynamically select between explicit and implicit signaling methods based on current network conditions, slice requirements, and UE capabilities. The network can adaptively choose the signaling approach that best balances identification accuracy and overhead for each specific paging scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple network slices are supported simultaneously, then network service diversity is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork service diversityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the network into multiple independent network slices, each optimized for specific services (eMBB, URLLC, mMTC). Each slice can be independently configured, managed, and optimized without affecting other slices, thereby supporting service diversity while managing complexity through modular organization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a unified paging framework that can handle multiple network slices simultaneously using a common set of procedures and messages. The paging mechanism universally supports both explicit and implicit signaling methods, and can page UEs for any combination of network slices using standardized procedures, reducing the need for slice-specific complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Quantity of substance

If shortened network slice ID is used, then air interface overhead is reduced, but identification precision may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveair interface overheadVSAvoididentification precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by using shortened network slice IDs (partial identification information) in implicit signaling scenarios where full precision is not required. The network can use abbreviated identifiers or transmission parameter combinations that provide sufficient discrimination for the specific paging context without transmitting complete NSSAI values, thereby reducing overhead while maintaining adequate identification precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11452070B2User equipment, base station and method for paging procedure

Publication Date: 2022.09.20 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CORP OF AMERICA

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a user equipment (UE) comprising a receiver for receiving a paging message from a base station. A processor determines at least one network slice to which the paging message pertains based on the received paging message. The disclosure further relates to a UE comprising a receiver for receiving information on a plurality of network slices. The information includes for each network slice a shortened network slice ID identifying the respective network slice and includes mapping information defining a mapping between the shortened network slice ID and a full network slice ID. A processor determines a network slice and the corresponding full network slice ID and further determines the corresponding shortened network slice ID based on the received mapping information. A transmitter transmits a data transmission preparation message to the base station that comprises the determined shortened network slice ID.