User Plane Congestion Notification Configuration for Network Slices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication networks face challenges in efficiently managing user plane congestion, leading to suboptimal performance and resource utilization, particularly in scenarios involving diverse wireless devices and network architectures.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a framework for user plane congestion notification that allows for dynamic adjustment of network resources based on traffic load, device capabilities, and network conditions, utilizing service-based architectures and intelligent network functions to optimize user plane operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional congestion management methods are used, then network stability is maintained, but network efficiency and resource utilization deteriorate under diverse traffic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments congestion management into separate plane functions: control plane for signaling and user plane for data transmission. This allows independent optimization of each plane, improving overall network efficiency while maintaining stability through dedicated handling of control signals separate from user data flows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic congestion management through real-time signaling between network elements (SMF, UPF, PCF) that adjusts resource allocation based on current traffic conditions. This dynamic approach enables the network to adapt to varying load conditions, improving efficiency without requiring overly complex static configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic resource adjustment is implemented, then resource utilization improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal congestion management framework where the PCF serves multiple functions: policy management, congestion detection, and resource allocation. This multi-functional approach improves adaptability while controlling complexity by consolidating related functions into a single network element rather than distributing complexity across multiple elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UPF reports congestion status to the PCF, which then adjusts resource allocation accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables dynamic resource adjustment while keeping the system manageable through standardized signaling protocols between network elements.
3Ease of operation
If centralized control is used, then coordination is simplified, but response time to local congestion events increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested architecture where the PCF provides centralized policy control, while the UPF handles local congestion detection and immediate response. The UPF operates autonomously within the constraints set by the PCF, enabling fast local response to congestion events while maintaining centralized coordination for overall resource management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures the UPF with congestion detection capabilities and response protocols before congestion events occur. This preliminary setup allows the UPF to immediately respond to local congestion conditions without waiting for centralized PCF instructions, reducing response time while maintaining coordinated control.
Data Source
AI summary
A first network node receives, from a second network node, a first message comprising a configuration parameter for reporting of user plane congestion associated with a network slice to a target node, wherein the configuration parameter comprises an identifier of the network slice. The first network node sends, to a user plane function (UPF), a second message comprising the configuration parameter.