RAMF Connectivity Management for Small Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing 5G network architecture lacks efficient management and connectivity solutions for small devices, which are dependent on a specific UE for mobility and connectivity, limiting cost-effective management, independence from operators, and specialized connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A method where the RAMF selects and forwards requests for connectivity to a specific SMF based on a subscription ID, allowing for independent management and connectivity of small devices, separating identities for RAN access/mobility and connectivity, enabling multiple applications to use a single UE without tight integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If small devices depend on a specific UE for mobility and connectivity, then connectivity can be established, but management cost increases and independence from operators is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identity system into two separate identities: one for mobility management (AMF) and another for connectivity management (SMF). This allows small devices to be independently managed for connectivity purposes while maintaining association with a UE for mobility, thereby reducing management complexity and increasing independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a separate connectivity identity as an intermediary that mediates between the small device and the network infrastructure. This intermediary enables direct connectivity management without requiring tight integration with a specific UE, reducing dependency and management overhead.
2Ease of manufacture
If tight integration between small devices and specific UE is maintained, then connectivity is ensured, but cost-effective management is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By separating mobility identity from connectivity identity, the system allows small devices to be managed more cost-effectively through independent connectivity provisioning. Multiple small devices can share the same connectivity identity pool, reducing per-device management costs while maintaining reliable connectivity through the dedicated connectivity identity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectivity identity serves as a universal identifier that can be used across multiple UEs and small devices. This multi-functionality enables cost-effective management by allowing a single connectivity identity to serve multiple devices, while still ensuring reliable connectivity through the standardized identity mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single identity is used for both mobility and connectivity, then system simplicity is maintained, but specialized connectivity for multiple applications is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single identity into two specialized identities: mobility identity for AMF interactions and connectivity identity for SMF interactions. This segmentation enables specialized connectivity for multiple applications while keeping identity management structured and manageable through clear separation of concerns.
Solution Approach 2:
Each identity is optimized for its specific purpose: the mobility identity is tailored for mobility management operations, while the connectivity identity is tailored for connectivity and session management. This local quality optimization enables specialized connectivity for different applications without requiring complex multi-purpose identity management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a Radio Access Management Function (RAMF) for handling connectivity to a data network is disclosed. The RAMF receives, from a UE, a request associated with connectivity to the data network for an application having a subscription ID. The RAMF selects, based on at least a part of the subscription ID, which Session Management Function the request should be forwarded to, and forwards the request to the selected Session Management Function.