RAN Node Direct CNF Communication via AMF Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G network architectures, particularly in the 3GPP specification, face increased signaling latencies and complexity due to the reliance on the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) for interactions between Radio Access Network (RAN) nodes and Core Network Functions (NFs), violating the principle of Service-Based Architecture (SBA) that services should be independent.
Innovation Solution
Introducing a new AMF service that allows RAN nodes to communicate directly with Core Network Functions (CNFs) other than the AMF, enabling RAN nodes to query or subscribe for RAN node information related to specific UEs, reducing dependency on the AMF for communication and signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RAN nodes communicate through AMF for all interactions with Core Network Functions, then centralized control and management is maintained, but signaling latencies increase and service independence is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication path by allowing RAN nodes to directly access specific CNFs (like SMF and UPF) for particular functions, while maintaining AMF for others. This functional segmentation reduces signaling latency for time-sensitive operations while preserving centralized control through AMF for management functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the AMF as an optional intermediary that RAN nodes can bypass when direct access to CNFs is appropriate. The AMF acts as a mediator for functions requiring centralized control, while allowing direct RAN-CNF communication for functions benefiting from reduced latency, thus resolving the contradiction between centralized control and fast response.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RAN nodes communicate directly with multiple CNFs, then service independence and communication flexibility are enhanced, but device complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal service-based interface architecture where RAN nodes can interact with multiple CNFs through standardized service interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the same RAN node to communicate with different CNFs (AMF, SMF, UPF) using consistent protocols, enhancing communication flexibility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic communication paths where RAN nodes can adaptively select which CNF to contact based on the specific function required. This dynamic routing flexibility allows the system to optimize communication paths in real-time, providing adaptability while managing complexity through intelligent selection rather than fixed complex connections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If AMF handles all RAN-CN communications, then centralized management is maintained, but AMF complexity and processing burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication burden by distributing specific function-handling responsibilities from AMF to other CNFs like SMF and UPF. AMF retains centralized control for management functions while offloading data-plane and session-specific communications to specialized CNFs, reducing AMF complexity while maintaining centralized management stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables CNFs like SMF and UPF to directly interact with RAN nodes for their specific functions without requiring AMF mediation. This self-service capability allows these CNFs to handle their own communication needs independently, reducing the processing burden on AMF while maintaining overall centralized control through the service-based architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of operating a network function NF node of a communication network are discussed. In such methods a message is received from an access and mobility management function AMF node. Moreover, the message includes information regarding a radio access network RAN node with respect to a communication device. Related methods of operating RAN nodes and AMF nodes are also discussed.