Terminal PLMN Selection for Network Slice Support in 5G
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G mobile communication systems, when a terminal roams, it may not receive network slice-related services due to the selected public land mobile network (PLMN) not supporting the required network slice, even if an available PLMN in the area does, as the initial PLMN selection prioritizes radio signal strength over network slice availability.
Innovation Solution
A method where a terminal transmits a registration request to a first visited PLMN, receives information on available network slices or priority of PLMNs from the first PLMN, and then registers with a second PLMN that supports the required network slice, ensuring seamless network slice service during roaming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the terminal selects PLMN based on radio signal strength, then the connection reliability is improved, but the network slice availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network performs preliminary actions by providing the terminal with information about available network slices and priority PLMN lists before the terminal attempts registration. This allows the terminal to proactively select a PLMN that supports the required network slice, avoiding the need to connect to a PLMN that cannot provide the necessary service. The AMF entity prepares and transmits the priority PLMN list containing PLMNs known to support specific network slices, enabling the terminal to make informed selection decisions based on service requirements rather than just signal strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the terminal to switch PLMN selection criteria based on service requirements. When network slice information is available, the terminal dynamically adjusts its PLMN selection process to prioritize PLMNs supporting the required slice, rather than statically relying on radio signal strength alone. This dynamic behavior enables the terminal to adapt its connection strategy to ensure both reliable connection and appropriate network slice availability.
2Speed
If the terminal registers with the first available PLMN, then the connection speed is improved, but the service suitability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network provides preliminary information about which PLMNs support which network slices before the terminal attempts connection. The AMF entity transmits a priority PLMN list that includes identifiers of PLMNs capable of supporting the terminal's required network slice. This preliminary information allows the terminal to quickly identify and connect to an appropriate PLMN without trial-and-error registration attempts, maintaining fast connection speed while ensuring service suitability from the first connection attempt.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal skips the trial-and-error process of registering with any available PLMN and potentially being rejected. Instead, it uses the provided priority PLMN list to directly identify and register with a PLMN that is guaranteed to support the required network slice. This approach rushes through the PLMN selection process by eliminating unnecessary registration attempts, achieving both fast connection and appropriate service matching.
3Measurement precision
If the network provides detailed slice information, then the service precision is improved, but the signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential information needed for PLMN selection - specifically, the priority PLMN list containing identifiers of PLMNs that support the required network slice. Rather than providing comprehensive details about all network slice characteristics, capabilities, and parameters, the solution extracts and transmits only the critical subset of information (PLMN identifiers and their slice support status) that enables the terminal to make accurate PLMN selection decisions. This reduces signaling overhead while maintaining sufficient service precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The network provides partial information - specifically, the priority PLMN list with slice support indicators - rather than complete information about all network slices and PLMNs. This partial information approach is sufficient for the terminal's PLMN selection needs while minimizing signaling overhead. The terminal receives just enough information to identify suitable PLMNs without being burdened by excessive detailed specifications of all available network resources.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. The disclosure provides a method, an apparatus, and a system for supporting mobility of a terminal.