WTRU Network Steering Using SoR Priority Lists for Local Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems struggle to efficiently steer Wireless Transmit/Receive Units (WTRUs) between multiple wireless networks, particularly in localized services provided by small cellular networks like temporary non-public networks at events or in crowded locations, where users do not have subscriptions and require on-demand access.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method for steering WTRUs using an Operator-Controlled PALS Network Selector to prioritize and select appropriate hosting networks, leveraging the Control Plane SoR solution to update the PLMN list in the WTRU's SIM, enabling seamless access to localized services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional network selection methods are used, then users can access networks manually, but users cannot efficiently access localized services without subscriptions and require complex manual network search
Solution Approach 1:
The WTRU automatically selects and connects to PALS networks without manual user intervention. The device autonomously monitors for available PALS networks, evaluates their suitability based on stored criteria, and initiates connection automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually search or select networks while accessing localized services.
Solution Approach 2:
The WTRU pre-stores criteria for selecting PALS networks before actual network access is needed. These pre-configured selection criteria enable the device to automatically evaluate and choose appropriate networks when they become available, without requiring real-time manual decision-making by the user.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PALS networks are available in the same area, then users have more service options, but the WTRU cannot efficiently determine which network to join without clear prioritization
Solution Approach 1:
The WTRU receives and pre-stores prioritized lists of PALS network identifiers from the network side before the actual selection process. These pre-provided prioritization criteria enable the device to automatically determine the preferred network among multiple options without requiring real-time manual evaluation or user input.
Solution Approach 2:
The WTRU monitors the availability of PALS networks in real-time and compares current network conditions against the stored prioritization criteria. When networks become available or unavailable, the device receives feedback about network status and automatically adjusts its selection accordingly, maintaining efficient operation despite changing conditions.
3Speed
If the WTRU continuously monitors network availability, then it can quickly switch between networks, but this consumes additional energy and network resources
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the WTRU performs network availability checks at periodic intervals triggered by specific events such as network registration, re-registration, or when PALS networks become available or unavailable. This periodic monitoring approach maintains the ability to quickly switch networks while significantly reducing continuous energy consumption compared to constant monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
A method implemented in a Wireless Transmit/Receive Unit, WTRU, for selecting a local network for the WTRU to join includes storing steering of roaming, SoR, information for a plurality of local service hosting networks, wherein the SoR information includes an indication of a priority order in a list of network identifiers, switching to an access mode for network searching, searching for a local service hosting network to join from among the plurality of local service hosting networks, and selecting a local service hosting network to join based on the indication of the priority order in the list of network identifiers. The method may further include updating the SoR information during any one or more of a periodic procedure or a mobility registration procedure.