REST API User Data Access via SMSF in Cellular Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing user data in cellular networks is traditionally time-consuming, computationally inefficient, and burdensome, particularly in 5G and LTE systems, as network operators need to subscribe to updates and unsubscribe to retrieve current data, leading to slow response times and increased resource usage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows direct access to user data via a Representational State Transfer (REST) interface, enabling a client system to query and retrieve user equipment (UE) context resources without subscription, using a short message service function (SMSF) and network repository function (NRF), and converting the data into a REST API response for efficient transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional subscription-based data access is used, then data can be retrieved, but the process is time-consuming and computationally inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing subscription relationships in advance, where the network function subscribes to data change notifications before they occur. This allows the system to be proactively notified when data changes, eliminating the need for repeated polling queries and enabling faster data retrieval when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network function receives automatic notifications when user data changes. This feedback loop allows the system to maintain up-to-date information without active querying, as the network is notified and can retrieve updated data immediately upon change occurrence.
2Reliability
If traditional data access methods are used, then user data can be obtained, but computational resources are increased
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous polling or repeated queries that consume computational resources, the system uses event-driven periodic action where data retrieval is triggered only when changes occur. The network function subscribes to notifications and retrieves data only when the network function notifies of a change, reducing unnecessary computational overhead while maintaining data accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If subscription-based access is used, then data can be updated, but the process becomes complex and burdensome
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically notifying subscribed network functions when user data changes. The network infrastructure itself manages the notification and data retrieval process without requiring complex manual intervention or cumbersome subscription management procedures, simplifying the overall access process while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for providing user data for a user in a cellular network. The method comprises receiving a request for user data from a requesting entity. The method includes providing login credentials associated with the requesting entity to a short message service function (SMSF), and querying the SMSF for user data. The method includes receiving user data in response to the query and parsing the received user data. The method includes converting the received user data to an API response and transmitting the converted user data to the requesting entity.