Wireless Terminal Traffic Offloading via Access Network Service Information
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, there is a need for a method to efficiently manage traffic processing across multiple access networks, particularly to alleviate overload in 3GPP-based access networks and prevent deterioration of Quality of Service (QoS) by allowing terminals to process traffic through alternative networks when permitted.
Innovation Solution
A method where a terminal receives second access network service information from a first access network, determines if traffic processing through a second access network is permitted based on this information, and processes all or some traffic through the second access network when permitted, including authentication and data transmission, thereby avoiding unnecessary power consumption and optimizing traffic efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the terminal processes all traffic through the 3GPP-based access network, then the network can maintain service quality and reliability, but the access network becomes overloaded and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments traffic into different types (e.g., voice, data, signaling) and routes different segments through appropriate access networks. The terminal or network can direct specific traffic flows to either 3GPP or non-3GPP networks based on service requirements, thereby preventing overload while maintaining QoS for critical services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic traffic routing where the terminal can adaptively switch between 3GPP and non-3GPP access networks based on real-time network conditions, service requirements, and available resources. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize efficiency while maintaining reliability as conditions change.
2Productivity
If the terminal discovers and accesses alternative access networks, then traffic processing efficiency improves and overload is reduced, but the terminal consumes additional power for discovery and authentication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the network provide advance information about available alternative access networks and their capabilities. The terminal receives pre-configured information about non-3GPP networks, authentication credentials, and traffic routing policies, so it doesn't need to perform extensive discovery procedures when traffic offloading is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal is empowered with self-service capabilities to autonomously determine when and how to offload traffic based on received service information, local policies, and network conditions. The terminal can independently authenticate and connect to alternative networks without requiring continuous network control, reducing signaling overhead and power consumption.
3Quantity of substance
If the terminal processes traffic through multiple access networks, then overall network capacity increases, but the complexity of managing multiple connections and traffic routing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (such as a gateway, anchor network, or centralized controller) that manages the complexity of multi-network traffic routing. This intermediary handles authentication, session management, and traffic steering between 3GPP and non-3GPP networks, shielding the terminal from complex management tasks while enabling multi-network operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal traffic management framework that can handle multiple access networks through common protocols and interfaces. The system uses unified authentication mechanisms, common session management procedures, and standardized traffic routing policies that work across different network types, reducing the complexity burden on the terminal.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method for communicating carried out by a terminal in a wireless communication system supporting a multiple access network. The method comprises receiving from a first access network second access network service information, determining whether traffic processing through the second access network is allowed based on the second access network service information, and processing all or a portion of the traffic on the first access network through the second access network.