PGW PCRF Identification Sharing in IMS Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In LTE networks, the current methods require a Diameter routing agent (DRA) to determine and route authorization requests to the correct Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) node, leading to inefficiencies and the need for additional network components, as the Proxy Call Session Control Function (P-CSCF) is unaware of the designated PCRF for subscriber sessions.
Innovation Solution
The Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW) determines and shares PCRF identification information with the user equipment, enabling direct communication between the P-CSCF and the PCRF, bypassing the DRA by including this information in create session response messages, allowing the P-CSCF to establish subscriber sessions without relying on the DRA.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Diameter routing agent (DRA) is used to route authorization requests to the correct PCRF node, then the P-CSCF can establish subscriber sessions, but the system requires additional network components and increased device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the PCRF identification information from the DRA routing function and places it directly in the create session response message from PGW to P-CSCF. This removes the dependency on DRA for PCRF identification, eliminating the need for this intermediate routing component while maintaining reliable session establishment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the create session response message as an intermediary carrier to transport PCRF identification information from PGW to P-CSCF. This message acts as a mediator that conveys the necessary routing information without requiring a dedicated DRA component, simplifying the network architecture.
2Measurement precision
If a DRA node is used to maintain mapping information and route requests, then the correct PCRF can be identified, but communication hops increase and latency is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the PCRF identification action in advance during the create session process. The PGW determines the PCRF identification information and includes it in the create session response message before the P-CSCF needs to establish the subscriber session. This preliminary provision of routing information eliminates the need for subsequent DRA lookup operations, reducing latency while maintaining identification accuracy.
3Reliability
If the P-CSCF is made unaware of the designated PCRF to maintain security and control, then centralized routing is maintained, but operational efficiency decreases and additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the PCRF identification function from the DRA routing component and embeds it within the create session response message. This allows the P-CSCF to receive and use the PCRF identification information directly, improving efficiency while the PGW maintains centralized control over the identification process. The segmentation eliminates the need for DRA while preserving control reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for sharing identification information of network nodes in an IMS network are disclosed. One method includes determining, by a packet data network gateway (PGW), policy and charging rules function (PCRF) identification information corresponding to a PCRF node designated to support an IMS-based subscriber session requested by a user equipment device and establishing, by the PGW, a subscriber Gx session with the PCRF node corresponding to the determined PCRF identification information. The method further includes determining, by the PGW, application function (AF) identification information corresponding to an AF server designated to support the IMS-based subscriber session and generating, by the PGW, a create session response message including at least the PCRF identification information and the AF identification information. The method also includes sending, by the PGW, the create session response message containing the at least the PCRF identification inform.