Roaming Network Exposure for Edge Service Policy Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems face challenges in providing network functions for roaming user equipment (UE) to utilize edge computing services outside the core network, as existing methods do not effectively transfer application function (AF) requirements from the home PLMN to the visited PLMN.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to operate a visited network exposure function (V-NEF) and home network exposure function (H-NEF) to facilitate the transfer of AF requirements from the HPLMN to the VPLMN, using transceivers and controllers to manage messages and identifiers for roaming UE, enabling network capability exposure services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a roaming UE accesses edge computing services in a VPLMN, then service continuity is maintained, but network capability exposure and policy transfer mechanisms become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the N33 interface as an intermediary communication channel between the V-NEF and H-NEF, enabling automated policy transfer and authentication. This intermediary mechanism resolves the complexity by providing a standardized, dedicated pathway for exchanging roaming service information, eliminating the need for complex ad-hoc communication protocols between multiple network functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the network capability exposure function into separate entities (V-NEF in visited network, H-NEF in home network) with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. This segmentation allows each NEF instance to handle specific aspects of service exposure independently, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining service continuity across network boundaries.
2Adaptability or versatility
If application service policies are transferred from HPLMN to VPLMN, then seamless service continuation is achieved, but information transfer overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a selective copying mechanism where only essential policy information and service parameters are replicated from HPLMN to VPLMN through the N33 interface. Instead of transferring complete policy datasets, the system copies only the critical elements needed for service continuity, reducing information transfer overhead while maintaining service portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary authentication and policy preparation actions through the V-NEF before actual service deployment in the VPLMN. By pre-processing policy transfer requirements and establishing authentication credentials in advance, the system minimizes real-time information exchange overhead during active service delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5th generation (5G) or 6th generation (6G) communication system for supporting higher data transmission rates. A method for operating a visited network exposure function (V-NEF) belonging to a visited public land mobile network (VPLMN) of a roaming user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system is provided. The method includes receiving a first message including identification information about the roaming UE, an application function identifier (AF ID), and an edge computing service provider identifier (ECSP ID), identifying a home network exposure function (H-NEF) belonging to a home public land mobile network (HPLMN) of the roaming UE, and transmitting a second message including a VPLMN ID and the ECSP ID to the H-NEF belonging to the HPLMN.