Static SMF UPF Selection via NRF Datastore Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G core networks, the selection of Session Management Functions (SMFs) and User Plane Functions (UPFs) is often random and unknown, making it difficult to test specific SMFs or UPFs efficiently, leading to inefficient resource utilization and increased complexity in traffic management.
Innovation Solution
A modified Network Function (NF) repository function datastore is used to statically select SMFs or UPFs by associating specific identifiers with preferred functions, allowing for direct connection establishment and reducing the randomness in SMF/UPF selection, thereby enhancing testing efficiency and resource utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If random selection of SMF/UPF is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but testing efficiency and resource utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring SMF/UPF selection preferences in the NRF datastore before actual session establishment. The NRF stores mapping relationships between S-NSSAIs and preferred SMF/UPF identifiers, allowing the system to bypass random selection and directly retrieve pre-determined function selections based on the DNN and S-NSSAI combination, thereby improving testing efficiency without adding operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the NRF datastore as an intermediary between the AMF and the SMF/UPF selection process. Instead of direct random selection or complex decision logic in the AMF, the NRF datastore serves as a mediator that stores and provides pre-configured selection preferences, simplifying the overall system while enabling deterministic and efficient function selection for testing purposes
2Productivity
If static selection is implemented, then resource utilization improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing existing NRF datastore parameters (DNN, S-NSSAI, and SMF/UPF identifier mappings) that are already part of the 5G core network architecture. By configuring static selection preferences through these existing parameters rather than introducing new data structures or configuration mechanisms, the system achieves improved resource utilization while minimizing the increase in system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the static selection mechanism to work with the existing NRF datastore structure that serves multiple functions in the 5G core network. The same datastore that manages general network function information is also used for storing SMF/UPF selection preferences, allowing the system to achieve deterministic function selection without creating separate configuration systems, thereby improving resource utilization while maintaining architectural simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods for statically selecting a session management function (SMF) or a user plane function (UPF) for a user equipment are described. A mobile device (UE) may transmit a connection request to a 5G core network. A static selection user interface receives inputs of UE and an SMF to associate with the UE. When the UE transmits a connection request, an identifier of the UE is used by a network function repository function (NRF). The NRF accesses an NRF datastore using the identifier. If an SMF is associated with the UE, the NRF returns the SMF instance of the associated SMF to an access management function (AMF) handling the connection request.