TWAN and ePDG DCN Selection for WLAN Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile communication networks do not support Dedicated Core Networks (DCN) for WLAN access, leading to limitations such as inability to select a specific PGW based on UE usage type or DCN identity, inconsistent subscriber services between 3GPP and WLAN access, and potential service disruptions when switching access types.
Innovation Solution
Implementing entities like TWAN and ePDG capable of performing DCN selection at Trusted and Untrusted WLAN access, with the Home Subscriber Server (HSS) downloading DCN-related UE subscription information to the 3GPP AAA Server, and the 3GPP AAA Server sending DCN selection information to these entities to enable DCN selection based on UE usage type and other parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DCN selection is not implemented for WLAN access, then the network architecture remains simple, but subscriber services become inconsistent between 3GPP and WLAN access and service continuity is disrupted when switching access types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the core network into multiple Dedicated Core Networks (DCNs), each serving specific subscriber groups or services. This segmentation allows WLAN access to have its own dedicated DCN resources, ensuring service consistency and continuity without requiring complex integration across a single monolithic core network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary DCN selection during the WLAN access establishment phase, before actual data transmission begins. The TWAN entity selects the appropriate DCN based on subscriber information and network policies in advance, ensuring that the correct DCN resources are allocated from the start, which maintains service continuity when switching between access types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DCN selection is not implemented, then the network configuration remains simple, but the ability to allocate resources based on UE usage type and subscription information is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic DCN selection capability where the TWAN entity can adaptively choose different DCNs based on real-time subscriber information, UE usage type, and network conditions. This dynamic selection process enables flexible resource allocation across multiple DCNs while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized selection procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where subscriber information and usage patterns are continuously monitored and fed back to the DCN selection function. This allows the system to learn from usage patterns and optimize resource allocation decisions, enhancing adaptability while keeping the selection logic systematic and controllable.
3Reliability
If DCN support is not provided for WLAN access, then the authentication and authorization procedures remain simple, but inconsistent subscriber services occur between different access types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the DCN selection mechanism universally to both 3GPP and WLAN access types through a common authentication and authorization framework. The same DCN selection principles and subscriber information handling are applied across different access types, ensuring consistent service delivery while avoiding the need for separate complex authentication procedures for each access type.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention include an entity such as TWAN entity, respectively ePDG, capable of serving a User Equipment UE at Trusted, respectively Untrusted, WLAN access to a packet Core Network such as EPC, said entity configured to: —perform DCN selection at said Trusted, respectively Untrusted, WLAN access of said UE to said packet Core Network such as EPC.