Core Network RedCap UE Capability Indication and Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G networks lack effective methods to differentiate and constrain reduced capability wireless devices (RedCap UEs) from using inappropriate services and resources, as there is no clear indication mechanism for the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) to recognize and manage RedCap UEs within the network.
Innovation Solution
Introducing methods for the core network to receive and utilize indications of RedCap UEs, allowing for controlled access and session management, including signaling options such as including RedCap indications in NG-AP messages or deducing UE capabilities to inform the AMF, enabling differentiated service customization and access control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the network treats all UEs uniformly without capability differentiation, then network simplicity is maintained, but RedCap UEs cannot be constrained to use only intended services and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the UE indicate its RedCap capability during the initial registration procedure before any service access occurs. The AMF receives and stores this indication, enabling proactive differentiation and constraint of RedCap UEs to intended services and resources before they can access inappropriate services.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the network introduces detailed indication mechanisms for RedCap UE recognition, then service differentiation and constraint capability is improved, but signaling overhead and procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the RedCap capability indication into existing registration signaling procedures. The UE includes its RedCap capability indication in the registration request message that is already being sent to the network for access purposes, combining two functions (access request and capability indication) into a single signaling exchange, thereby avoiding additional overhead.
3Measurement precision
If the AMF is made aware of RedCap UE status through additional signaling, then access control and session management precision is improved, but message complexity and processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by having the AMF store and process the RedCap capability indication locally within its own function. The AMF uses this information to make localized decisions regarding service differentiation, access control, and session management for RedCap UEs, without requiring complex network-wide signaling or coordination with other network functions.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for handling wireless devices with reduced capabilities, or “RedCap” devices. An example method, performed by a core network node in a wireless communication network having a radio access network and a core network, comprises the step of receiving (32), for a wireless device operating in the radio access network, an indication that the wireless device is a reduced capability device. The method further comprises controlling (34) access to core network services by the wireless device and/or controlling session management for the wireless device, based on the indication.