SIPTO Routing Control via Radio Access Node Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing SIPTO mechanism requires a separate PDN connection, new IP address assignment, and complex configurations, leading to mobility issues, increased costs, and user experience problems, particularly in offloading backhaul data traffic and maintaining IP address continuity.
Innovation Solution
A method and network element that enable opportunistic transparent routing control, allowing SIPTO without requiring additional PDN connections, special UE software, or mobility procedures, by utilizing routers within the radio access node and PDN network to bypass the core network, thereby supporting IP address mobility and optimizing routing paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate PDN connection is created for SIPTO, then direct data exchange between UE and external PDN is enabled, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines SIPTO functionality with the existing PDN connection by establishing an additional user plane path through the radio access node while maintaining the control plane through the core network. This merging approach allows direct data exchange without requiring a completely separate PDN connection, thereby reducing device complexity while enabling the desired functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The radio access node is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a standard radio access node for core network connectivity and as a SIPTO gateway for direct external PDN access. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity while enabling direct data exchange.
2Ease of operation
If new IP address assignment is implemented for SIPTO, then direct routing is enabled, but IP address mobility and continuity are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The radio access node serves as an intermediary that receives data from the core network via the existing PDN connection and forwards it to the external PDN. This intermediary approach enables direct routing functionality while preserving the original IP address assignment, thereby maintaining IP address continuity and mobility without requiring new IP address mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a parallel user plane path that copies the data flow from the core network route and directs it through the radio access node to the external PDN. This copying mechanism enables direct routing while the original IP addressing scheme remains intact, ensuring IP address continuity is maintained.
3Ease of operation
If complex configurations are required for SIPTO, then routing control is achieved, but ease of operation and deployment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service mechanisms where the radio access node automatically detects external PDN connectivity opportunities and establishes SIPTO paths without requiring manual configuration. The existing PDN connection provides the necessary control plane signaling, enabling the node to self-configure the additional user plane path, thereby achieving routing control while simplifying deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the pre-established PDN connection and its control plane signaling as a foundation for SIPTO deployment. By performing preliminary setup of the control plane through the core network, the system prepares the necessary signaling paths and authentication mechanisms in advance, which then enable automatic SIPTO path establishment without complex real-time configurations.
4Productivity
If SIPTO is activated on demand by UE, then direct data exchange is enabled, but mobility support and seamless switching are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection where the system can switch between core network routing and direct SIPTO routing based on real-time conditions. The radio access node continuously monitors external PDN connectivity and automatically adjusts the user plane path, enabling seamless mobility support and adaptability without requiring UE-initiated activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the radio access node receives connectivity status information from the core network via the control plane and uses this feedback to determine when to activate or deactivate SIPTO paths. This feedback-driven approach enables automatic adaptation to changing network conditions and maintains mobility support while optimizing data exchange efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for identifying whether a selective internet protocol transport opportunity (SIPTO) route is allowed to be used by at least one wireless communication unit comprises, at a core network element: storing subscription profile data associated with the at least one wireless communication unit in a home subscriber server (HSS) database, where the subscription profile data comprises an indication of whether the wireless communication unit has access rights to use a SIPTO route, and generating a SIPTO indicator for informing at least one network element that the at least one wireless communication unit is allowed to use the SIPTO route.