PDU Session Management via AF-SMF Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks, especially 5G networks, face challenges in managing Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions effectively, particularly in configuring and updating PDU session parameters such as application system location or User Plane (UP) selection over longer periods.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Session Management Function (SMF) that obtains information associated with UP selection or reselection notifications from an Application Function (AF) and sends notifications to the AF, indicating the configuration or update of PDU sessions, ensuring application awareness and friendly PDU session management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If PDU sessions are established for longer periods in 5G networks, then network resource utilization and service continuity are improved, but PDU session parameter configuration and updates become more complex and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the SMF monitors PDU session parameters and automatically triggers updates when changes are detected. The system receives feedback from the AF about application requirements and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust PDU session parameters, eliminating the need for manual configuration and simplifying long-term session management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes PDU sessions with pre-configured parameters and policies before actual data transmission begins. The SMF performs preliminary configuration of user plane paths, QoS parameters, and application bindings during session establishment, allowing the session to maintain stable operation throughout its extended duration without requiring frequent parameter changes.
2Reliability
If PDU session parameters are updated frequently to reflect current application requirements, then service level agreement satisfaction is improved, but signaling overhead and network load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring and evaluation of PDU session parameters by the SMF instead of continuous updates. The system checks whether parameter updates are necessary at predetermined intervals or when specific triggering events occur, such as application layer changes or QoS threshold violations. This periodic approach maintains SLA satisfaction while significantly reducing signaling overhead compared to continuous parameter updates.
3Reliability
If application awareness is enhanced in PDU session management, then service quality and user experience are improved, but system complexity and information processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the Application Function (AF) as an intermediary between the application layer and the PDU session management system. The AF collects application-specific requirements and translates them into standardized session management parameters that the SMF can process. This intermediary approach enhances application awareness and service quality while shielding the core PDU session management system from direct exposure to complex application-specific information processing.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PDU sessions are maintained simultaneously for different applications, then service versatility and user flexibility are improved, but resource management complexity and configuration overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal PDU session management framework where the SMF handles multiple applications and sessions through a single, standardized interface and configuration mechanism. The system uses application identifiers and binding policies to differentiate between various applications while maintaining a unified resource management approach. This allows multiple PDU sessions to be managed simultaneously with reduced complexity, as the same management procedures and parameter structures apply across all sessions regardless of the specific application.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods by which User Plane (UP) management information is exchanged between an Application Function (AF) supporting one or more applications and a Slice Management Function (SMF) configured to manage traffic flows in a given slice of the network. The exchange of UP management information may be initiated from either the AF or the SMF. In the case of AF-initiated information exchange, the UP management information provided by the AF may comprise traffic requirements of applications supported by the AF. In the case of SMF-initiated information exchange, the UP management information provided by the SM may comprise operator policy information or events, and the AF may respond with information of traffic requirements of applications supported by the AF.