UPF Selection via Service Application ID Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for selecting User Plane Function (UPF) elements in 5G systems, primarily relying on Data Network Names (DNNs), are inaccurate and unable to ensure continuous service for users moving across different service areas, especially when specific services like Internet of Vehicles require precise UPF selection.
Innovation Solution
A UPF element selection method that involves the Session Management Function (SMF) determining whether a user terminal has moved out of its current UPF service area by checking the target RAN node's connection to the current UPF element. The SMF then sends a resource acquisition request to the Network Repository Function (NRF), which provides a list of UPF elements, including their addresses and supported service application IDs. The SMF selects the appropriate UPF element by matching the user's service application ID with the list supported by the target UPF element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If DNN parameters are used to select UPF elements, then the selection process is simple, but the selection accuracy is insufficient for specific services like Internet of Vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the UPF selection process into two independent parts: DNN-based filtering for initial candidate selection and service application ID-based matching for precise service identification. This segmentation allows each method to focus on its strength while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces service application ID as an intermediary parameter that bridges the gap between DNN-based coarse selection and specific service requirements. The service application ID acts as a mediator that carries precise service identification information from the UE to the SMF for accurate UPF matching.
2Reliability
If edge-deployed UPF elements are used for low-delay services, then service experience is improved in small areas, but service continuity is compromised when users move to large areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic UPF selection that adapts to UE movement patterns. The SMF continuously monitors UE location and service requirements, dynamically selecting the most appropriate UPF element. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain low-latency service experience while adapting to large-area mobility scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the selection parameters from static DNN-based matching to dynamic service application ID-based matching combined with location awareness. This parameter change enables the system to respond to changing service requirements and UE location, maintaining service quality across different coverage areas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DNNs are used to distinguish different services, then service differentiation is achieved, but the complexity and impracticality increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the service identification function from the DNN parameter and places it in a dedicated service application ID field. This extraction allows DNN to focus on network identification while service application ID handles service differentiation, reducing DNN management complexity while maintaining service differentiation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the service application ID a universal parameter that works across all services and UPF elements. Instead of creating service-specific DNNs, the service application ID provides a unified mechanism for service identification that can be applied universally throughout the 5G system.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure provide a UPF element selection method and device. The method includes: judging, by a SMF element, whether a target RAN node is connected to a current UPF element; if not, determining that a user terminal is moved out of a current UPF service area; sending, by the SMF element, a resource acquisition request to a NRF, a resource response message including a UPF list, wherein the UPF list includes a UPF address, and a service application ID list supported by the UPF element; receiving, by the SMF element, the resource response message fed back by the NRF; judging, by the SMF element, whether a current service application ID carried by the user terminal belongs to the service application ID list supported by the UPF element; and if yes, accessing the user terminal to a target UPF element. The embodiments of the disclosure overcome an inaccuracy in selecting the UPF using parameters such as a DNN in a current 5G.