Per-Session Functionality Enablement in 5G UPF via SMF Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current PFCP solutions in 5G telecommunication networks have limited functionality at the User Plane Function (UPF) and enable features only on a per node or Packet Detection Rule (PDR) basis, lacking flexibility and enabling capabilities on a per session basis.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution allows the Session Management Function (SMF) to enable functionality at the UPF on a per session basis, using a list of profiles that include features like DDoS protection, traffic optimization, and tethering, which are activated during the session and disabled upon its termination, enhancing flexibility and local processing capabilities within the UPF.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functionality is enabled on a per node or PDR basis in current PFCP solutions, then the UPF can process packets according to configured rules, but the flexibility to enable functionality on a per session basis is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments functionality into distinct profiles (e.g., DDoS protection profile, traffic optimization profile) that can be independently selected and activated. This allows the SMF to enable specific functionality sets for specific sessions without configuring individual PDRs, thereby increasing per-session flexibility while managing complexity through pre-defined functional building blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic functionality enabling where the SMF can activate or deactivate specific functionality profiles for PFCP sessions based on session requirements. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt functionality availability in real-time based on session characteristics, moving beyond static node-level or PDR-level configuration to flexible session-level control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If current PFCP reporting solution is used with volume-based URR reporting, then charging can be performed, but the functionality available at the UPF is fairly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the UPF to perform multiple functions beyond basic packet forwarding and volume reporting. By introducing functionality profiles that include DDoS protection, traffic optimization, and other advanced features, the UPF becomes a multi-functional node capable of providing diverse services. This universality allows a single UPF to handle both traditional charging reporting and enhanced functionality requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the reporting parameters from solely volume-based metrics to include additional metrics enabled by the new functionality profiles. When functionality is activated, the UPF can report on metrics relevant to that functionality (e.g., security-related metrics for DDoS protection, performance metrics for traffic optimization), thereby expanding the quantity and type of reportable data without compromising the charging capability.
3Reliability
If functionality is enabled for the entire session lifetime, then the session benefits from enhanced capabilities, but the functionality remains active even when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic activation and deactivation of functionality profiles based on session requirements. The SMF can activate functionality when needed and deactivate it when the session no longer requires it, allowing the system to adapt functionality availability in real-time. This dynamic approach ensures reliability when functionality is needed while minimizing energy consumption when it is not.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the ability to change functionality state parameters dynamically during session operation. The SMF can modify the active functionality set for a session based on changing requirements, activating or deactivating specific profiles as needed. This parameter change capability allows the system to maintain reliability for active requirements while reducing energy consumption by disabling unnecessary functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of enabling functionality at a User Plane Function, UPF, by a Session Management Function, SMF, in a telecommunication network, wherein said method comprises the steps of receiving, by said UPF, a session creation/modification message for creating/modifying a session between said UPF and said SMF, wherein said session creation/modification message comprises a session functionality indication for indicating functionality to be enabled for said session, and enabling, by said UPF, said functionality during said session between said UPF and said SMF.