5G UPF Port Node Info for DetNet Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current 5G systems lack the ability to provide node and port information necessary for a deterministic network (DetNet) architecture, hindering the integration of 5G into DetNet for low-latency and reliable network services.

Innovation Solution

A method where network nodes obtain and transmit port information and node information, including port identifiers and user plane function identifiers, to a DetNet controller, enabling the controller to generate topology information for the 5G system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If 5G system integrates into DetNet architecture, then high-speed data transmission and low latency are achieved, but the system lacks node and port information required by DetNet controller

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transmission speedVSAvoidnode and port information

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The solution segments the information provision process by introducing intermediate functions (LLDP, BGP-LS, PCEP) that separately collect, process, and forward different types of network topology information to the DetNet controller, allowing the 5G core network to maintain its existing architecture while providing required topology data

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses intermediary protocols and functions (LLDP for layer 2 discovery, BGP-LS for path computation, PCEP for controller communication) that act as mediators between the 5G system and DetNet architecture, translating and forwarding topology information without requiring direct integration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If DetNet architecture is used to provide guaranteed latency, then reliable network services are delivered, but the system complexity increases due to topology discovery requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork service reliabilityVSAvoidtopology discovery complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solution applies multi-functionality by using standardized protocols (LLDP, BGP-LS, PCEP) that serve multiple purposes: LLDP discovers both layer 2 and layer 3 topology, BGP-LS provides path computation and routing information, and PCEP enables controller communication, reducing overall system complexity through protocol consolidation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the 5G network elements (UPF, AMF, SMF) with topology discovery capabilities and pre-establishing the information exchange mechanisms with the DetNet controller, so that topology information is readily available when needed for deterministic routing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250184236A1Integrating a 3GPP system into a deterministic network architecture

Publication Date: 2025.06.05 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

A method performed by a network node is provided. The method comprises obtaining first information comprising port information and/or node information. The port information includes at least one port identifier identifying at least one port which is assigned to a Packet Data Unit, PDU, session and/or which is associated with a user plane function, UPF. The node information includes a node identifier identifying a user plane function, UPF. The method further comprises transmitting towards a deterministic network, Det-Net, controller second information generated based on the first information.