PCRF APN Selection for Heterogeneous Packet Data Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems face inefficiencies in handling Access Point Names (APNs) due to heterogeneous functional requirements for different packet data connections, leading to sub-optimal performance and resource consumption in PDN-GW/GGSN and TDF nodes, as not all users require all enabled functions.
Innovation Solution
A method where the PCRF node assists the CN node in selecting an APN configuration optimized for each packet data connection by choosing from a plurality of candidate APNs with different configurations, enabling only necessary functions, thereby directing appropriate connections to APNs with required functionalities enabled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functions are enabled per APN in PDN-GW/GGSN to meet heterogeneous user requirements, then service differentiation and functionality are improved, but resource consumption and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling functions selectively at the individual PDN connection level rather than globally per APN. The system determines specific functions required for each PDN connection and enables only those functions locally, avoiding unnecessary resource consumption while maintaining service differentiation. This is achieved through policy control that associates specific functions with individual PDN connections based on user requirements, device type, location, and other factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the function enabling mechanism from the APN configuration level down to the individual PDN connection level. Instead of treating all users of an APN uniformly, the system divides the function allocation into discrete units per PDN connection, allowing precise control over which functions are enabled for each connection. This segmentation enables fine-grained resource management while meeting heterogeneous user needs.
2Reliability
If functions are enabled per APN to ensure all users receive required functionality, then reliability and service quality are improved, but device complexity and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces policy control as an intermediary layer between the APN configuration and the actual function enabling in PDN-GW/GGSN. The policy control mechanism receives input about user requirements, device characteristics, and service needs, then dynamically determines which functions to enable for each PDN connection. This intermediary abstracts the complexity from the core network elements while ensuring reliable service delivery, as the policy control centrally manages function allocation based on comprehensive criteria.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are enabled per APN to accommodate diverse user needs, then adaptability is improved, but resource consumption and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by enabling only the necessary subset of functions for each PDN connection rather than enabling all possible functions for all users of an APN. The system determines the minimum required functions for each individual connection based on user profile, device type, location, and service requirements, enabling just enough functionality to meet needs without excessive resource consumption. This partial enabling approach maintains adaptability while improving processing efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The embodiments herein relate to a method in a Policy and Charging Rules Function, PCRF, node (208) for handling Access Point Names, APNs. The PCRF node receives, from a Core Network, CN, node (205), a request message comprising information indicating a first APN associated with a packet data connection. The request message is a request for a second APN being configured for a wireless device (203) arranged to communicate via the packet data connection. The PCRF node selects a configuration for the wireless device (203), and selects the second APN adapted to the selected configuration from a plurality of candidate second APNs. Each candidate second APN in the plurality comprises different configurations for the same packet data connection. The PCRF node transmits a response message to the CN node (205). The response message comprises information indicating the selected second APN.