Terminal Session Management for 4G-5G Network Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a method to provide seamless service to terminals (UE) in environments where 4G and 5G wireless communication systems coexist, ensuring continuous data sessions even when UE capabilities change and wireless communication systems are switched.
Innovation Solution
A method where a terminal transmits network capability information to a mobility management entity, which then requests connection reactivation to the original network, allowing for seamless switching between 4G and 5G networks without disconnecting data sessions by releasing and re-establishing connections with session identifiers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal switches between 4G and 5G networks due to capability changes, then adaptability is improved, but service continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the terminal allocate session identifiers and establish session management contexts before actually switching networks. When the terminal anticipates a capability change, it pre-allocates session identifiers for the target network and stores session management information, so that when the switch occurs, the service continuity is maintained without interruption. This is evident in the method where the terminal allocates a session identifier for the second network before releasing the connection to the first network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses session identifiers as an intermediary mechanism to bridge the transition between 4G and 5G networks. The session identifier acts as a mediator that carries session state information across the network boundary, allowing the terminal to maintain service continuity while switching networks. The mobility management entity also uses this identifier to track and manage the terminal's session across different network types.
2Reliability
If the terminal maintains connection to the original network, then service continuity is improved, but adaptability to capability changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the network connection state flexible rather than static. The terminal dynamically adjusts its network connections based on capability changes - it can release connection to the first network and establish connection to the second network while maintaining service continuity through pre-allocated session identifiers. The system transitions from a fixed connection state to a dynamic one where the terminal can switch networks adaptively while preserving service through session management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the terminal releases connection to switch networks, then adaptability is improved, but connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a session identifier that copies or replicates the essential session state information from the first network connection to the second network connection. When the terminal switches networks, it doesn't lose the session state because it has copied the necessary information into a session identifier that can be used in the new network. This allows the terminal to release the old connection and establish a new one while maintaining service continuity through the copied session information.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. A method performed by a terminal in a mobile communication system is provided according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method comprises the steps of: transmitting a first message, comprising network function information of the terminal, to a mobility management entity associated with a first network; if the network function information instructs support for a second network, receiving a second message comprising connection reactivation request information from the mobility management entity; releasing the connection with respect to the first network in response to the second message; transmitting a third message, for reestablishing connection to the first network, to the mobility management entity on the basis of the connection reactivation request information. The third message comprises an identifier of a first session for the second network corresponding to the connection with respect to the first network allocated by the terminal.