Service Layer Charging Correlation with 3GPP Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current service layer charging systems lack the ability to dynamically adjust service layer charging behavior based on Quality of Service (QoS) parameter changes in underlying 3GPP networks, leading to inaccurate or inefficient charging practices due to the absence of a mechanism for correlating charging information between the service layer and the underlying network.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Service Domain Charging Correlation Function (SD-CCF) that manages and configures charging correlation rules, interacts with the underlying network to set triggers, and performs service layer charging operations in response to detected QoS parameter changes, enabling dynamic adjustment of service layer charging policies and records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If service layer charging systems operate independently without correlation mechanisms, then system simplicity is maintained, but charging accuracy deteriorates due to inability to detect QoS parameter changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Service Layer Charging Correlation Function (SL-CCF) as an intermediary component that bridges the service layer and underlying network. This mediator receives QoS parameter change notifications from the network, correlates them with service layer charging information, and triggers appropriate charging actions, thereby improving charging accuracy without requiring complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the underlying network sends QoS parameter change notifications back to the service layer charging system. This feedback loop enables the charging system to dynamically adjust charging behavior based on actual network conditions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and accuracy by using targeted information flow rather than complex continuous monitoring
2Measurement precision
If continuous monitoring of QoS parameters is implemented, then charging accuracy is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the patent employs event-driven periodic action where QoS parameter change notifications are transmitted only when actual changes occur. This approach maintains charging accuracy by capturing all relevant state changes while minimizing communication overhead by eliminating redundant transmissions during stable periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures trigger conditions and notification mechanisms in advance, so that when QoS parameters change, the system can immediately respond with pre-prepared charging actions. This preliminary setup reduces real-time communication overhead while maintaining accurate charging by having the response mechanism ready beforehand
3Productivity
If service layer charging dynamically adjusts based on network events, then charging efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases due to correlation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the charging system into distinct functional components: a correlation function that handles network-event-to-charging-action mapping, a notification handler that receives QoS changes, and a charging execution module. This segmentation improves charging efficiency by allowing each component to specialize in its function while reducing overall complexity through modular design that enables independent development and maintenance of each segment
Data Source
AI summary
The present application at least describes a computer-implemented method including a step of setting, via a service layer residing on a server outside of an underlying 3GPP network, a trigger in the underlying 3GPP network, where the trigger defines an QoS parameter change in the underlying 3GPP network. The underlying 3GPP network is configured with functionality to send a notification to the service layer upon detecting the QoS parameter change. The computer-implemented method also includes a step of receiving, from the underlying 3GPP network, the notification the detected QoS parameter change has occurred. The computer-implemented method further includes a step of performing, at the service layer residing on the server a service layer operation in response to the received notification.