Session Transfer Between 4G and 5G Radio Access Infrastructures
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Solution Overview
Problem
5G wireless communication networks face challenges such as limited coverage areas, higher deployment costs, and slower rollout during initial deployments, which affect the transition from 4G to 5G infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for transferring a connection from a 4G radio access infrastructure to a 5G radio access infrastructure based on time, location, user preference, network conditions, and device capabilities, enabling a hybrid 4G/5G cellular core network that dynamically switches between the two to optimize performance and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If 5G radio access infrastructure is deployed to provide superior high-speed connectivity, then network performance is improved, but coverage area is limited and deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic session transfer between 4G and 5G radio access infrastructures based on real-time network conditions, device capabilities, and service requirements. The system can switch sessions from 5G to 4G when 5G coverage is unavailable or when 4G is more appropriate, and vice versa, optimizing both speed and coverage dynamically
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a hybrid 4G/5G core network where the packet data network connection can be served by either 4G or 5G infrastructures depending on conditions. This multi-functionality allows the network to leverage both technologies, providing 5G high-speed capabilities where available while maintaining 4G coverage elsewhere
2Speed
If 5G radio access infrastructure is deployed to provide superior high-speed connectivity, then network performance is improved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial deployment of 5G infrastructure in conjunction with existing 4G networks. Rather than requiring complete 5G deployment, the system activates 5G sessions selectively based on available infrastructure, device capabilities, and service needs, reducing initial deployment costs while still providing 5G speeds where available
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a session management mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the endpoint device and the radio access infrastructure. This mediator determines whether to establish sessions via 4G or 5G based on current conditions, allowing gradual 5G deployment without requiring complete infrastructure replacement
3Speed
If connection is transferred from 4G to 5G radio access infrastructure, then network performance is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the network system automatically monitors conditions, determines optimal session locations, and performs session transfers without manual intervention. The system self-manages the complexity of coordinating between 4G and 5G infrastructures through automated decision-making based on predefined criteria and real-time feedback
Data Source
AI summary
Example devices, computer-readable media, and methods for transferring a connection to a packet data network from a first session via a first radio access infrastructure to a second session via a second radio access infrastructure are disclosed. A processing system of a cellular network may receive, via a first radio access infrastructure from an endpoint device, a request to establish a connection to a packet data network via the cellular network and establish a first session for the connection to the packet data network for the endpoint device via the first radio access infrastructure. The processing system may detect at least one condition for transferring the connection to the packet data network to a second session via a second radio access infrastructure that is different from the first radio access infrastructure, establish the second session, and transfer the connection to the packet data network to the second session.