SMF-Based LTE NR Access Path Control for 5G Dual Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems, the increased path loss in mmWave bands reduces radio propagation distance, necessitating advanced technologies like beamforming and MIMO, but existing systems lack efficient methods for controlling data transmission paths when a UE simultaneously accesses both LTE and NR BSs, leading to service disconnection issues due to limited coverage.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for controlling data transmission paths in a 5G network using dual connectivity, where the network selects between LTE and NR access based on service type and subscriber policies, employing a Session Management Function (SMF) to manage radio links and access information, allowing seamless service switching between LTE and NR BSs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mmWave band is used for 5G communication to achieve high data transmission rate, then data transmission rate is improved, but radio propagation distance is reduced due to increased path loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Session Management Function (SMF) as an intermediary entity that manages and controls the data transmission path between the UE and the network. The SMF receives session establishment requests, determines the appropriate access type (NR or LTE), and establishes the corresponding data transmission path, thereby mediating between the high-speed NR access and the wide-coverage LTE access to resolve the contradiction between transmission rate and propagation distance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic path selection where the SMF can flexibly switch between NR and LTE access types based on real-time service requirements, UE capabilities, and network conditions. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize between high data rate (NR) and long propagation distance (LTE) depending on the specific communication scenario
2Reliability
If dual connectivity is implemented to supplement NR coverage with LTE, then service continuity is improved, but system complexity increases due to path control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the path control function from the base stations and concentrates it in the Session Management Function (SMF). By taking out the complex path management logic from the access network elements and placing it in the core network's SMF, the system achieves simplified base station operations while maintaining reliable dual-connectivity service continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The SMF acts as an intermediary that centralizes the control of data transmission paths in dual-connectivity scenarios. It receives session establishment requests, determines whether to use NR or LTE access, and establishes the appropriate data transmission path, thereby managing the complexity of path control in a centralized manner while ensuring service continuity
3Adaptability or versatility
If network selects access type based on service type and subscriber policies, then service optimization is improved, but control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Session Management Function (SMF) serves as a centralized intermediary that handles the complexity of access selection based on service types and subscriber policies. It receives session establishment requests, queries subscriber information from the Unified Data Management (UDM), and determines the appropriate access type (NR or LTE) based on service requirements and policy rules, thereby achieving service optimization while centralizing control complexity in a dedicated network function
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of access type selection based on multiple factors including service type, subscriber information, and network conditions. The SMF dynamically adjusts the selected access parameter (NR or LTE) according to the specific service requirements and subscriber policies, enabling flexible service optimization without requiring complex changes at the base station level
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services.