Virtual Network Group Routing Across Multi-Network 5G UPFs

The patent segments the network into multiple independent networks (first network and second network) while introducing a virtual network (VN) concept that logically groups terminals across these segments. Each network maintains its own independence for deployment and management, while the VN layer provides logical connectivity between terminals in different network segments, resolving the contradiction between network coverage expansion and communication efficiency.

The patent introduces a user plane function (UPF) as an intermediary node that mediates traffic between terminals in different networks. The UPF receives traffic from terminals in the first network and forwards it to terminals in the second network, enabling efficient communication across network boundaries while maintaining the independence of individual networks.

The patent segments the virtual network management into network-specific configurations while maintaining a unified VN layer. Each network has its own configuration parameters and UPF instances, but these are coordinated through the VN layer to achieve unified management. This segmentation approach reduces the complexity of managing a fully centralized virtual network while still enabling efficient traffic switching.

The patent adds a virtual network dimension to the traditional physical network architecture. Instead of managing networks purely at the physical layer, the VN layer provides a virtual dimension for traffic routing and management. This dimensional addition allows unified virtual network management to coexist with physical network independence, improving traffic switching efficiency without proportionally increasing architectural complexity.