UE API Layer for 5G NSSAI Access and Dynamic Slice Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G networks lack a mechanism to expose Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (NSSAI) to applications within the User Equipment (UE) or devices connected to the UE, limiting the flexibility and dynamic management of network slices.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an Application Programming Interface (API) layer within the UE to facilitate access and management of NSSAI, allowing native and external applications to query, request, and manage network slices through the 5G modem, exposing 5G QoS values and enabling dynamic slice selection and management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network slicing is implemented in 5G, then network flexibility and service differentiation are improved, but device complexity and information management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the application and the 5G modem that manages NSSAI information. This intermediary translates application-level service requirements into network slice selections, shielding the application from the complexity of multiple network slices while enabling flexible service differentiation through network slicing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network slices are allowed per UE, then service versatility is improved, but information management and slice selection become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network slice management functionality into distinct components: an intermediary layer that handles high-level service requirements, a 5G modem that manages technical slice parameters, and the network core that provides slice resources. This segmentation allows each component to focus on specific aspects, simplifying information management while supporting multiple network slices for different services.
3Reliability
If network slice awareness is extended to RAN, then end-to-end service quality is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an intermediary layer that acts as a mediator between the application and the complex end-to-end network slice infrastructure. This intermediary translates application service requirements into appropriate network slice selections, enabling end-to-end service quality assurance through network slice awareness at the RAN while shielding the application from system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and systems for exposing the network slice selection process to the entities within or attached to a client device are provided. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for allowing slice consumers within or attached to the client device to access and use Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (NSSAI) comprises, at a client device: receiving, at an Application Programming Interface (API) layer within the client device, a query for NSSAI, the query being sent by a slice consumer; sending, to a Fifth Generation (5G) modem within the client device, the query for NSSAI; receiving, from the 5G modem, a response to the query for NSSAI; and sending, to the slice consumer, the response to the query for NSSAI. Enhancements to the N1 interface as well to Core Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Application Function (AF), and Network Exposure Function (NEF) are presented.