Separating Control and User Data in 5G NAS Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems, the management of control plane messages is challenged by delays caused when a large number of IoT devices use Control Plane C-IoT EPS optimization, which can interfere with regular control plane signaling messages, leading to network performance issues and potential crashes due to unprocessed control messages.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves separating control messages and data packets over the NAS link by using distinct access identifier values for control data and user data, ensuring that control plane messages are not delayed by user data transmissions, particularly by employing different NAS COUNTs and cryptographic streams for control and user data transfers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If Control Plane C-IoT EPS optimization is used to enable massive IoT device connections, then the network can support a large number of devices, but control plane signaling messages are delayed and network performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control plane signaling into two distinct types: NAS signaling messages (for device management) and RRC signaling messages (for radio resource control). By separating these signaling types and processing them through different paths or priorities, the system can handle massive IoT device connections without delaying critical control plane messages, thus resolving the contradiction between supporting large device quantities and maintaining timely message processing.
2Device complexity
If control data and user data are transmitted over the same control plane using the same access identifier, then the system structure is simplified, but control messages experience delays due to user data transmissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a segmentation mechanism where control data and user data are assigned different access identifier values (first access identifier for control data, second access identifier for user data). This allows the system to maintain a relatively simple overall structure while creating logical separation between control and user plane traffic, ensuring that control messages are not delayed by user data transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different properties (access identifier values) to different types of data transmissions within the same control plane. Control data receives a first access identifier that prioritizes timely processing, while user data receives a second access identifier that allows it to be transmitted without blocking control messages. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction without requiring complete system restructuring.
Data Source
AI summary
Improved techniques for control plane message management in a communication system are provided. For example, a method comprises transmitting control data over a control plane associated with a communication system using a first access identifier value, and transmitting user data over the control plane using a second access identifier value. The first access identifier value is distinct from the second access identifier value.