Traffic Steering Coordination in Wireless Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication networks, there is a conflict between routing rules and RAN thresholds for steering traffic between 3GPP and WLAN access networks, leading to inconsistencies in routing IP flows, which can result in suboptimal network performance due to conflicting indications for traffic movement.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that determine whether a remote unit, such as a UE, will apply network traffic steering data for routing data traffic across different access networks, including transmitting information to indicate the application of RAN thresholds, allowing for seamless traffic steering between 3GPP and WLAN networks based on predetermined rules and indications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If routing rules are used to steer traffic between access networks, then traffic routing flexibility is improved, but routing consistency deteriorates due to conflicts with RAN thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (traffic steering coordination function) that mediates between routing rules and RAN thresholds. This intermediary ensures that when routing rules indicate traffic movement, RAN thresholds are adjusted accordingly to maintain consistency, thereby resolving the conflict between routing flexibility and routing consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors the state of routing rules and RAN thresholds. When inconsistencies are detected, feedback loops trigger coordination actions to align both mechanisms, ensuring that traffic steering decisions remain consistent across different access networks while maintaining routing flexibility.
2Extent of automation
If RAN thresholds are used for traffic steering, then network control is improved, but routing reliability deteriorates due to conflicting indications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of routing rules and RAN thresholds into a unified traffic steering framework. By combining these two automated control mechanisms and coordinating their operations, the system maintains high network control capability while eliminating conflicting indications that would otherwise reduce routing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary coordination function is introduced to mediate between RAN thresholds and routing rules. This intermediary ensures that automated network control through RAN thresholds does not create conflicts with routing decisions, thereby maintaining both high automation and routing reliability.
3Speed
If traffic steering data is applied without coordination, then routing speed is improved, but network performance deteriorates due to suboptimal routing decisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-coordinating RAN thresholds with routing rules before traffic steering decisions are executed. This preliminary coordination ensures that when fast routing decisions are made, they are based on aligned and consistent parameters, thereby maintaining both routing speed and network performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for rules handling. One apparatus includes a processor that determines whether a remote unit will apply network traffic steering data for routing data traffic on a first route across a first access network and a second route across a second access network. In some embodiments, the first and second routes may be different. In various embodiments, the apparatus includes a transmitter that transmits information that indicates whether the remote unit will apply the network traffic steering data.