Rule-Based Uplink Packet Selection Across Network Slice Instantiations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile terminals in 4G/LTE networks are limited to connecting to a single MME and S-GW gateway, lacking the ability to access multiple network slice instantiations with diverse resources, which hinders the flexibility and scalability needed for future 5G networks.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting a network slice instantiation by verifying uplink packets against rules designating specific instantiations, allowing terminals to connect to the appropriate network slice based on service requirements, with default and real-time rule updates for optimized network access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional mobile terminal architecture is used with a single MME and S-GW gateway, then the network structure is simple and easy to manage, but the network lacks flexibility and scalability to support diverse 5G service requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the network into multiple network slice instantiations, each with its own MME and S-GW gateway. This allows the network to be segmented into independent functional units that can be selectively accessed by terminals based on service requirements, thereby improving flexibility without overwhelming complexity through standardized access mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a terminal capable of accessing multiple network slice instantiations through a unified access interface. The terminal maintains a single NAS connection while being able to reach different network slices, making the access mechanism multi-functional and adaptable to diverse service needs without requiring separate access procedures for each slice.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network slice instantiations are deployed to support diverse services, then service diversity and customization improve, but the terminal's ability to access and select appropriate slices becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a single NAS connection that mediates between the terminal and multiple network slice instantiations. This intermediary abstracts the complexity of multiple slice accesses, allowing the terminal to selectively access different slices through a unified interface without directly managing the complexity of multiple connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to network access by enabling a single terminal connection to access multiple network slices simultaneously through different logical channels or contexts. This dimensional approach allows service diversity to be achieved without increasing the number of physical or logical connections the terminal must manage.
3Productivity
If a terminal connects to a single MME and S-GW gateway, then the connection management is simple, but the terminal cannot dynamically switch between different network slices for different services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the terminal to dynamically select and switch between different network slice instantiations based on service requirements. The terminal can adapt its network access behavior in real-time, choosing appropriate slices for different services while maintaining a stable single NAS connection, thus achieving both efficiency and adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for selecting a network slice instantiation (S0, S1, S2) in a communication network for transmitting uplink data from a user terminal (UE). This method comprises, following the reception (E20) of an uplink packet (Pi) by a communication module (COM) of the user terminal, the verification (E30) of a match between this uplink packet and at least one rule (R1, R2) designating a network slice instantiation capable of transmitting the uplink packet in the communication network and, when the uplink packet corresponds to a rule designating a network slice instantiation, the transmission (E54) of the uplink packet to a user plane access entity (ANUP1) of the designated network slice instantiation.