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WO2025017606A1 - System and method to configure dual connectivity to a plurality of user equipments - Google Patents

System and method to configure dual connectivity to a plurality of user equipments Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2025017606A1
WO2025017606A1 PCT/IN2024/051095 IN2024051095W WO2025017606A1 WO 2025017606 A1 WO2025017606 A1 WO 2025017606A1 IN 2024051095 W IN2024051095 W IN 2024051095W WO 2025017606 A1 WO2025017606 A1 WO 2025017606A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
apn
ambr
network
parameters
extended
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/IN2024/051095
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Aayush Bhatnagar
Mukta Shetty
Alok K Jha
Sanjeev Kumar
Aditya Gupta
Apoorva Khamesra
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Jio Platforms Ltd
Original Assignee
Jio Platforms Ltd
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jio Platforms Ltd filed Critical Jio Platforms Ltd
Publication of WO2025017606A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025017606A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M15/00Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication ; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP
    • H04M15/80Rating or billing plans; Tariff determination aspects
    • H04M15/8033Rating or billing plans; Tariff determination aspects location-dependent, e.g. business or home
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L12/00Data switching networks
    • H04L12/02Details
    • H04L12/14Charging, metering or billing arrangements for data wireline or wireless communications
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L12/00Data switching networks
    • H04L12/02Details
    • H04L12/14Charging, metering or billing arrangements for data wireline or wireless communications
    • H04L12/1403Architecture for metering, charging or billing
    • H04L12/1407Policy-and-charging control [PCC] architecture
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04LTRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04L41/00Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
    • H04L41/08Configuration management of networks or network elements
    • H04L41/0894Policy-based network configuration management
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M15/00Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication ; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M15/00Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication ; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP
    • H04M15/66Policy and charging system
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04MTELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
    • H04M15/00Arrangements for metering, time-control or time indication ; Metering, charging or billing arrangements for voice wireline or wireless communications, e.g. VoIP
    • H04M15/82Criteria or parameters used for performing billing operations
    • H04M15/8228Session based
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04WWIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W4/00Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
    • H04W4/24Accounting or billing

Definitions

  • a portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material, which is subject to intellectual property rights such as, but are not limited to, copyright, design, trademark, Integrated Circuit (IC) layout design, and/or trade dress protection, belonging to Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) or its affiliates (herein after referred as owner).
  • JPL Jio Platforms Limited
  • owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all rights whatsoever. All rights to such intellectual property are fully reserved by the owner.
  • the present disclosure relates to wireless cellular communications, and specifically to a system and method to provide an additional support of extended Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs) on a Gx interface.
  • APN-AMBR extended Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • a VPs Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs
  • PCC Policy and Charging Control
  • PCF policy control function
  • PCRF policy and charging rules function
  • DPI deep packet inspection
  • SMF session management function
  • PDU Packet Data Unit
  • CHF charging function
  • BSF binding support function
  • DNN data network name
  • UE addresses e.g., UE addresses
  • PCF address e.g., PCF address for the PDU session.
  • the PCF registers a new session binding information in the BSF and obtains a unique BSF binding ID for the existing PDU session.
  • NRF refers to a network repository function (NRF) is the network node(s) repository (database).
  • the NRF implements registration and discovery of various other 5G network services, either in local or a remote network.
  • the NRF also provides a service for requesting OAuth2 access tokens.
  • AF refers to application function (AF) is a functional entity responsible for handling service- specific aspects and application- related policies. It plays a crucial role in enabling the delivery of various services and applications over the network.
  • AMF access and mobility management function
  • OCS online charging system
  • PGW packet data network gateway
  • NMS network management station
  • NMS network management station
  • Network elements communicate with the NMS to relay management and control information.
  • the NMS also enables network data analysis and reporting.
  • SPR subscriber profile repository
  • Sd refers to Sd interface is to support Application Detection and Control (ADC) rule handling, usage monitoring control of traffic detection function (TDF) sessions and of detected applications.
  • ADC Application Detection and Control
  • TDF traffic detection function
  • the Sd interface supports reporting of the start and the stop of a detected application’s traffic and transfer of service data flow descriptions for detected applications.
  • N7 refers to N7 interface triggers session management policies towards a session management function (SMF).
  • SMF session management function
  • N28 refers to N28 interface supports the key charging and quota handling scenarios.
  • N15 refers to N15 interface is between the Policy Control Function (PCF) and the Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in the case of a non-roaming scenario, or the Visited PCF (vPCF) and Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in case of a roaming scenario.
  • PCF Policy Control Function
  • AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions
  • vPCF Visited PCF
  • AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions
  • Rx refers to Rx interface enables transport of application-level session information from P-CSCF to PCRF.
  • Gx refers to Gx interface connects the PCRF with policy enforcement points.
  • the serving GPRS support node (SGSN), gateway GPRS support node (GGSN), and PDN Gateway are all considered as enforcement points, supported by the Gx interface.
  • Sy refers to Sy interface connects the PCRF and OCS. It enables the transfer of subscriber spending information from the OCS to PCRF. This allows the PCRF to make policy decisions based on spending limits.
  • the interface uses Diameter and supports initial and intermediate requests to get policy counter statuses and subscribe to status change notifications. It also supports final requests to unsubscribe from all notifications.
  • TAC Tracking Area code which plays an important role in network management and allows for efficient tracking and identification of User Equipment (UE) while moving within the 5G network service.
  • UE User Equipment
  • APN refers to Access Point Name is a gateway between a mobile network (GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G and 5G) and another computer network, frequently the public Internet.
  • AMBR refers to Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate is the maximum possible bit rate configured by the network operator for a particular user to provide efficient service connection.
  • APN-AMBR refers to access point name Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate. It is a parameter that is used to control the maximum amount of data that can be transferred over a wireless network.
  • UL refers to uplink which is the signal that leaves the user equipment and going back to the service provider cell tower.
  • DL refers to downlink is the signal transmitted from the service provider cell tower to the user equipment.
  • AVP refers to attribute value pair which is given to an information element of a diameter message.
  • CCR-I refers to credit control request initial message which is used by the PCF to request rule from the PCRF as a part of PCC framework.
  • CCA-I refers to credit control answer initial message carries the rule between the PCRF and PCF as a part of PCC framework.
  • PCRF Policy and Charging Rules Function
  • IP Internet Protocol
  • IP-CAN Internet Protocol Connectivity Access Network
  • QoS -Information Attribute Value Pair may not include any other AVP than an APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate(AMBR) Uplink (UL) AVP, an APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate(AMBR) Downlink (DL) AVP, an Extended-APN-AMBR-UL AVP, an Extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or Conditional- APN- Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP.
  • the PCRF may provision authorized QoS per APN, based on information obtained from a Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR) or internal policies.
  • SPR Subscriber Profile Repository
  • the PCRF may take an appropriate action to throttle the bandwidth of the user.
  • the PCRF may push back the normal AMBR rules.
  • the PCRF may manage this by sending modified APN-AMBR values to a Packet Data Network Control Plane (PGW-C).
  • PGW-C Packet Data Network Control Plane
  • a 5G NSA user device moves to the nonthrottled area from the throttled area, in that case only modification on the APN- AMBR is not sufficient.
  • the 5G NSA user may consume high control and user plan bandwidth in a low bandwidth service area which will impact other subscriber services.
  • APN- AMBR extended Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • a VPs Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs
  • PCRF Credit Control Request Initial
  • PCRF may send only the extended- APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in a Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
  • PCCC policy and charging control
  • SPR Subscriber Profile Repository
  • the present disclosure discloses a system for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE).
  • the system includes a memory, an input unit, and a processor.
  • the memory is configured to store a pre-defined set of processing rules.
  • the input unit is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW).
  • PDN packet data network gateway
  • the processor is configured to cooperate with the input unit to receive the digital number of measurements, and further configured to cooperate with the memory to process the received information using the pre-defined set of processing rules to: extract a set of parameters from the number of measurements; determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC); generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location; transmit the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity; and transmit the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
  • TAC tracking area code
  • PCC policy and charging control
  • the number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended- APN- AMBR- UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN- AMBR AVP.
  • the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
  • API extended Access Point Name
  • AMBR Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • DL Downlink
  • UL Uplink
  • the present disclosure discloses a method of configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE).
  • the method includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW).
  • PDN packet data network gateway
  • the method includes extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from the number of measurements.
  • the method includes determining, by the processor, a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the method includes generating, by the processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location.
  • PCC policy and charging control
  • the method includes transmitting, by the processor, the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity.
  • the method includes transmitting, by the processor, the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
  • the present disclosure discloses a system for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE).
  • the system is configured to receive, by a policy and charging rules function (PCRF), a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW).
  • PCRF policy and charging rules function
  • UE user equipment
  • PGW packet data network gateway
  • the system is configured to extract, by the PCRF, a set of parameters from the number of measurements.
  • the system is configured to determine, by the PCRF, a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the system is configured to generate, by the PCRF, a set of Policy and Charging Control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location.
  • PCC Policy and Charging Control
  • the system is configured to transmit, by the PCRF, the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity.
  • the system is configured to transmit, by the PCRF, the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
  • the present disclosure discloses a computer program product to configure configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE).
  • the instruction comprises receiving a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW).
  • PDN packet data network
  • PGW packet data network gateway
  • the instruction includes extraction of a set of parameters from said number of measurements and determine a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the instruction comprises generating a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location and transmit said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity.
  • PCC policy and charging control
  • the instruction comprises transmission of the said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
  • the present disclosure discloses a network function for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE), wherein the network function is a policy and charging rules function (PCRF).
  • the network function is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW).
  • PDN packet data network gateway
  • the network function is configured to extract a set of parameters from the number of measurements.
  • the network function is configured to determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the network function is configured to generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location.
  • PCC policy and charging control
  • the network function is configured to transmit the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity.
  • the network function is configured to transmit the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
  • the present invention discloses a user equipment (UE) communicatively coupled with a network.
  • the coupling comprises steps of receiving, by the network, a connection request from the UE, sending, by the network, an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE and transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request for implementing a method of configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs) which includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW), extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from said number of measurements, determining, by said processor, a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC), generating, by said processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location, transmitting, by said processor, said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is
  • PDN packet data network
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture for implementing a system for configuring dual connectivity to one or more user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • UEs user equipments
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary sequence of steps for representing providing of an additional support of the extended dual connectivity (APN AMBR DL UL AVPs) on a Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • APN AMBR DL UL AVPs extended dual connectivity
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary representation of a network function for providing an additional support of the extended dual connectivity on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for configuring dual connectivity to a plurality of user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which or with which the system may be implemented, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • DPI Deep Packet Inspection
  • AMF Access and Mobility Management Function
  • OCS Online Charging System
  • PGW Packet Data Network Gateway
  • NMS Network Management System
  • individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.
  • exemplary and/or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration.
  • the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples.
  • any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive like the term “comprising” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.
  • mobile device “user equipment”, “user device”, “communication device”, “device” and similar terms are used interchangeably for the purpose of describing the invention. These terms are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or imply any specific functionality or limitations on the described embodiments. The use of these terms is solely for convenience and clarity of description. The invention is not limited to any particular type of device or equipment, and it should be understood that other equivalent terms or variations thereof may be used interchangeably without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.
  • an “electronic device”, or “portable electronic device”, or “user device” or “communication device” or “user equipment” or “device” refers to any electrical, electronic, electromechanical, and computing device.
  • the user device is capable of receiving and/or transmitting one or parameters, performing function/s, communicating with other user devices, and transmitting data to the other user devices.
  • the user equipment may have a processor, a display, a memory, a battery, and an input-means such as a hard keypad and/or a soft keypad.
  • the user equipment may be capable of operating on any radio access technology including but not limited to IP-enabled communication, Zig Bee, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, etc.
  • the user equipment may include, but not limited to, a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, mainframe computer, or any other device as may be obvious to a person skilled in the art for implementation of the features of the present disclosure.
  • the user device may also comprise a “processor” or “processing unit” includes processing unit, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions.
  • the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a digital signal processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc.
  • the processor may perform signal coding data processing, input/output processing, and/or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor is a hardware processor.
  • Radio Access Technology refers to the technology used by mobile devices/ user equipment (UE) to connect to a cellular network. It refers to the specific protocol and standards that govern the way devices communicate with base stations, which are responsible for providing the wireless connection. Further, each RAT has its own set of protocols and standards for communication, which define the frequency bands, modulation techniques, and other parameters used for transmitting and receiving data. Examples of RATs include GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), LTE (Long-Term Evolution), 5G, 6G and more such successive generations. The choice of RAT depends on a variety of factors, including the network infrastructure, the available spectrum, and the mobile device' s/device's capabilities. Mobile devices often support multiple RATs, allowing them to connect to different types of networks and provide optimal performance based on the available network resources.
  • GSM Global System for Mobile Communications
  • CDMA Code Division Multiple Access
  • UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
  • LTE Long-Term Evolution
  • PCRF Policy and Charging Rules Function
  • IP- CAN IP Connectivity Access Network
  • a VPs Extended Bandwidth Attribute Value Pairs
  • Extended Bandwidth AVPs are parameters or attributes that convey information about the available or allocated bandwidth for a particular IP-CAN session.
  • Extended Bandwidth AVPs are essential for supporting dual connectivity in 5G NSA because they allow the PCRF to make informed decisions about policy and charging based on the available bandwidth across both 4G and 5G connections.
  • the PCRF uses these AVPs to enforce policies related to Quality of Service (QoS), charging, and other aspects of the user's data session. This ensures that the user experience is optimized, and network resources are utilized efficiently.
  • QoS Quality of Service
  • the PCRF should be capable of understanding and processing Extended Bandwidth AVPs during the establishment or modification of IP-CAN sessions. This capability enables the PCRF to manage policies and charging effectively, considering the combined bandwidth from both the 4G and 5G connections.
  • an extended- Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) value and the APN- AMBR value both come in Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message.
  • the network function Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) is configured to send only the extended-APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
  • PCRF Policy and Charging Rules Function
  • the network function is configured to send modified policy rules based on user location, and when the user moves into a specific Tracking Area Location (TAL) for which throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF is configured to modify the Extended-APN-AMBR Downlink (DL)/ Uplink (UL) values without affecting other network services.
  • TAL Tracking Area Location
  • the PCRF is configured to modify the Extended-APN-AMBR Downlink (DL)/ Uplink (UL) values without affecting other network services.
  • the user is not required to re-attach to the network to throttle or throttle back to get default Quality of Service (QoS) information from a Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR).
  • QoS Quality of Service
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example network architecture (100) for implementing a system (108) for configuring dual connectivity to one or more of user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • UEs user equipments
  • FIG. 1 illustrates an example network architecture (100) for implementing a system (108) for configuring dual connectivity to one or more of user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • one or more user equipments 104-1, 104- 2. . . 104-N) are connected to the system (108) through a network 106.
  • a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the one or more user equipments 104- 1, 104-2. . . 104-N are collectively referred as user equipments 104 and individually referred as a computing device 104.
  • the user equipment 104 includes, but not be limited to, a mobile, a laptop, etc. Further, the user equipment 104 includes one or more in-built or externally coupled accessories including, but not limited to, a visual aid device such as a camera, audio aid, microphone, or keyboard. Furthermore, the user equipment 104 includes a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, a laptop, a general -purpose computer, a desktop, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, and a mainframe computer. Additionally, input devices for receiving input from the user such as a touchpad, touch-enabled screen, electronic pen, and the like may be used.
  • VR virtual reality
  • AR augmented reality
  • input devices for receiving input from the user such as a touchpad, touch-enabled screen, electronic pen, and the like may be used.
  • the network 106 includes, by way of example but not limitation, at least a portion of one or more networks having one or more nodes that transmit, receive, forward, generate, buffer, store, route, switch, process, or a combination thereof, etc. one or more messages, packets, signals, waves, voltage or current levels, some combination thereof, or so forth.
  • the network 106 also includes, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet- switched network, a circuit- switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a Public-Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof.
  • PSTN Public-Switched Telephone Network
  • the system (108) includes a memory (110), an input unit (112), and a processor (114).
  • the memory (110) is configured to store a pre-defined set of processing rules.
  • the input unit is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) (located within the network (106)).
  • PDN packet data network gateway
  • the processor (114) is configured to cooperate with the input unit (112) to receive the digital number of measurements, and further configured to cooperate with the memory (110) to process the received information using the predefined set of processing rules.
  • the number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) UL Attribute Value Pair (A VP), APN- AMBR -DL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-UL A VP, extended- APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN- AMBR AVP.
  • the processor (114) is configured to fetch a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) and extracts a set of parameters from the received number of measurements.
  • the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
  • the processor (114) is configured to generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location.
  • the updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value.
  • the processor (114) is configured to determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the processor (114) transmits the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity. Otherwise, the processor (114) transmits the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
  • the system (108) may be embedded with or within a network function.
  • the network function is a PCRF.
  • the PCRF is configured to receive a plurality of requests from the PGW via a Gx interface.
  • the plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message, and a Credit Control Request Update (CCR-U) message.
  • the PCRF is configured to transmit a plurality of requests to the PGW via the Gx interface.
  • the plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Answer (CCA-I) message; and a Credit Control Answer Update (CCA-U) message.
  • an additional support of the extended APN AMBR DL UL A VPs on a Gx interface is provided to PCRF.
  • the below mentioned execution steps are performed at a server level/PCRF level.
  • the PCRF (coupled/embedded with the system (108)) saves the APN- AMBR UL/DL values for all the users to support a use case and assign the APN-AMBR values (which comes in the CCR-I) after the user moves from a throttle tracking area code (TAC) to non-throttle TAC (LTE).
  • TAC throttle tracking area code
  • the PCRF sends the extended-APN-AMBR values in CCA-U for a 5G NSA supported device.
  • the extended-APN-AMBR and APN-AMBR both may come in CCR-I, but the PCRF sends only the extended-APN-AMBR value with PCC rules in the CCA-I.
  • the PCRF defines a new PCC rule for installing the extended-APN-AMBR and installs existing PCC rules when only the APN-AMBR is received, irrespective of the throttling or the nonthrottling scenario.
  • the PCRF application stores the extended-APN-AMBR DL/UL values for all 5G NSA users to support this use case.
  • the PCRF receives create/update requests for the throttled service area locations from PGW-C, it provides the basic rules along with the Extended-APN-AMBR values in order to reduce the data transfer rate. 6.
  • the PGW-C may send an update request with updated location details. Then, the PCRF provides rules with the original extended-APN-AMBR in the QoS information without getting this information from the SPR. If the subscribers are having different extended-APN-AMBR values, the PCRF provides previous AMBR values without detach-attach procedure.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flowchart representing steps of a method (200) of providing an additional support of the extended dual connectivity.
  • the steps are performed by the PCF and PCRF for providing the additional support of the extended dual connectivity (APN AMBR DL UL AVPs) on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
  • the PCRF (system 108) is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) or PDN Gateway CP (PGW-C).
  • the number of measurements is at least one of APN- Aggregate-Max-Bitrate UL AVP, APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate-DL AVP, extended- APN- AMBR-UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP.
  • the PCRF is configured to extract the extended-APN- AMBR-UL AVP, and extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP from the received measurements and transmits the same to the PGW-C.
  • the PCG-W is configured to store the received values for this session.
  • step 206 when the UE moves from a non-barring area (nonlimited connectivity) to barring area (limited connectivity), and the PCRF is configured to receive CCR-U having a notification of tracking area code (TAC) change notification.
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the PCRF is configured to transmit the extracted set of parameters and a generated set of PCC rules to the PGW using CCA-U.
  • the extracted set of parameters includes throttle extended APN-AMBR UL/DL values.
  • the PCRF is configured to receive CCR-U having a notification of tracking area code (TAC) change notification.
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the PCRF is configured to transmit the original extended APN-AMBR UE/DE values to the PGW using CCA-U.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates a connectivity diagram of various connections/interfaces between the network function (324) and other modules (functions) in a 5G network.
  • the network function (324) provides an additional support of the extended dual connectivity on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG.
  • the network function (324) is connected to a deep packet inspection (DPI) 302, a session management function (SMF) 304, a charging function (CHF) 306, a binding support function (BSF) 308, a network repository function (NRF) 310, an access and mobility management function (AMF) 312, an application function (AF) 314, an online charging system (OCS) 316, a packet data network gateway (PGW) 318, a network management system (NMS) 320, and a subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322.
  • DPI deep packet inspection
  • SMF session management function
  • CHF charging function
  • BSF binding support function
  • NRF network repository function
  • AMF access and mobility management function
  • AF application function
  • OCS online charging system
  • PGW packet data network gateway
  • NMS network management system
  • SPR subscriber profile repository
  • the deep packet inspection (DPI) 302 examines and analyses the content of data packets as they pass through the network.
  • the deep packet inspection (DPI) 302 enables traffic management, network security, and application optimization by inspecting and classifying data packets based on content.
  • the DPI communicates with the network function through the Sd interface.
  • the Sd interface supports reporting of the start and the stop of a detected application’s traffic and transfer of service data flow descriptions for detected applications.
  • the session management function (SMF) 304 manages and controls user sessions in the 5G network.
  • the session management function (SMF) 304 facilitates the establishment, modification, and termination of user sessions, ensuring efficient and secure communication.
  • the SMF communicates with the network function via N7 interface.
  • the N7 interface triggers session management policies towards a session management function (SMF).
  • the charging function (CHF) 306 manages charging and billing aspects for subscriber services.
  • the charging function (CHF) 306 handles charging and billing information related to data usage, ensuring accurate billing for the provided services.
  • the CHF communicates with the network function via N28 interface. N28 interface supports the key charging and quota handling scenarios.
  • the binding support function (BSF) 308 supports the binding of the user plane to the user's data session.
  • the binding support function (BSF) 308 assists in establishing and maintaining connections between the user plane and user's data session, contributing to seamless data communication.
  • the BSF communicates with the network function via Nbfs.
  • the network repository function (NRF) 310 supports the service discovery function, maintains NF profile and available NF instances.
  • the network repository function (NRF) 310 supports the network in discovering and selecting appropriate network functions and instances to optimize service delivery.
  • the NRF communicates with the network function via Nnrf.
  • the access and mobility management function (AMF) 312 manages access and mobility aspects for user devices in the 5G network.
  • the access and mobility management function (AMF) 312 handles access control, mobility management, and connection establishment for user devices.
  • the AMF communicates with the network function via N15 interface.
  • the N15 interface is between the Policy Control Function (PCF) and the Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in the case of a non-roaming scenario, or the Visited PCF (vPCF) and Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in case of a roaming scenario.
  • PCF Policy Control Function
  • AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions
  • vPCF Visited PCF
  • AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions
  • the application function (AF) 314 manages and optimizes application-level functions and services.
  • the application function (AF) 314 supports service- specific functionalities and optimizations for various applications running on the 5G network.
  • the AF communicates with the network function via Rx interface.
  • the Rx interface enables transport of application-level session information from P-CSCF to PCRF.
  • the online charging system (OCS) 316 handles realtime charging and credit management for subscriber services.
  • the online charging system (OCS) 316 enables real-time monitoring and charging for data usage and services, ensuring accurate billing and credit management.
  • the OCS communicates with the network function via Sy interface.
  • the Sy interface connects the PCRF and OCS. It enables the transfer of subscriber spending information from the OCS to PCRF.
  • the packet data network gateway (PGW) 318 connects the 5G network to external data networks.
  • the packet data network gateway (PGW) acts as a gateway for data traffic, providing connectivity between the 5G network and external data networks, including the internet.
  • the PGW communicates with the network function via Gx interface.
  • the network management system (NMS) 320 manages and monitors the overall performance of the 5G network.
  • the network management system (NMS) facilitates the configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of network elements to ensure efficient and reliable network operation.
  • the subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322 stores and manages subscriber profiles and subscription-related information.
  • the subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322 provides a centralized repository for subscriber data, supporting authentication and authorization processes.
  • the network function (PCF+ PCRF) 324 enforces policies and rules related to network resource usage, quality of service, and charging. The network function ensures the efficient allocation of network resources, enforces quality of service policies, and facilitates dynamic charging based on service usage.
  • the user equipment requests the Access and mobility management (AMF) for a service. Based on the requested service, a Session Management Function (SMF) is selected for managing the user session.
  • AMF Access and mobility management
  • SMF Session Management Function
  • the N15 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and AMF 312.
  • the N7 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and SMF 304 during session establishment and modification.
  • PCF+PCRF network function
  • the N28 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and CHF 306.
  • the interface supports key charging and quota handling services in the network services.
  • the disclosed system and method facilitate to efficiently manage network resources by allocating and controlling the maximum data transfer rate. Further, it prevents network congestion/outages and smoothens overall network experience. In addition, a re-attach to the network is not required when the user comes out of a throttled location to experience basic data transfer rate. Furthermore, this ensures the other network services like audio or video calls are not affected.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method (400) for configuring dual connectivity to one or more user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • dual connectivity in 5G NSA involves simultaneous connections to both 4G and 5G networks to enhance data rates and reliability.
  • the combination of 5G and 4G LTE may provide additional bandwidth that increases 5G network speed and reliability.
  • Dual connectivity enables user equipment to maintain uninterrupted and smooth communication.
  • the method (400) involves receiving a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) via an input unit.
  • PDN packet data network gateway
  • the packet data network (PDN) gateway acts as a gateway for data traffic, providing connectivity between the 5G network and external data networks, including the internet.
  • the number of measurements associated with the user equipment session is received via the input unit from a packet data network (PDN) gateway.
  • PDN packet data network
  • the number of measurements is at least one of APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate UL AVP, APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate-DL AVP, extended- APN-AMBR-UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP.
  • a processor extracts a set of parameters from the received measurements.
  • the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
  • API extended Access Point Name
  • AMBR Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • DL Downlink
  • UL Uplink
  • the processor extracts the set of parameters by sending a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
  • CCR-I Credit Control Request Initial
  • APN extended Access Point Name
  • AMBR Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • DL Downlink
  • UL Uplink
  • Attribute Value Pairs A VPs.
  • a user equipment’s current location is determined by the processor using a tracking area code (TAC).
  • TAC tracking area code
  • the user equipment’s current location may include the present location, remote location and varying location as per the user movement.
  • the processor determines the current location of the user equipment by the tracking area code (TAC).
  • the tracking area code (TAC) is a numerical identifier used in cellular network to identify user equipment location.
  • the location may be determined by the processor using location service configured in the user equipment.
  • the location service includes GPS, Wi-fi, mobile network and sensors.
  • the method (400) includes generation of a set of policy and charges control (PCC) rules and updating the set of parameters based on the determined user equipment location.
  • PCC policy and charges control
  • the processor generates a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location.
  • the processor sends the Credit Control Request Initial (CCR- I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the set of policy and charging control (PCC) via the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
  • the updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value.
  • the throttle extended APN-AMBR Uplink or Downlink value indicates the maximum aggregate bit rate in kbit per second for uplink or downlink direction.
  • the processor generates a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rule by sending the Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the set of policy and charging control (PCC) via the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message using the information collected from various network functions such as the SMF, AMF, CHF, UDR, AF, etc.
  • the determined location may include the user equipment’ s present location, remote location and varying location according to the user movement.
  • the type of the connectivity area based on the tracking area code is determined.
  • the type of connectivity area includes limited connectivity area (barring area) and non-limited connectivity area (nonbarring area).
  • the limited connectivity area are locations where the user equipment faces an error in communicating with network and the non-limited connectivity area are locations where the user equipment has good communication with the network.
  • the method (400) involves transmission of an updated set of parameters and generated set of PCC rules to PCW, if the determined TAC is associated with limited connectivity area.
  • the updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN- AMBR DL value.
  • the set of PCC rules are information that is required to be applied on the user equipment for better and efficient communication.
  • the PCC rules are applied based on the user’s network traffic.
  • the method (400) involves transmission of the processor extracted set of parameters to PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to a nonlimited connectivity area.
  • the non-limited connectivity area where the user equipment has good connectivity with the network.
  • the present invention discloses a user equipment (UE) (104) communicatively coupled with a network (106).
  • the coupling comprises steps of receiving, by the network (106), a connection request from the UE (104) , sending, by the network (106) , an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE and transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request for implementing a method of configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs) which includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW), extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from said number of measurements, determining, by said processor, a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC), generating, by said processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location, transmitting, by said processor, said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules
  • PDN packet data network
  • FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary computer system (500) in which or with which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented.
  • the computer system may include an external storage device 510, a bus 520, a main memory 530, a read-only memory 540, a mass storage device 550, communication port(s) 560, and a processor 570.
  • the computer system may include more than one processor and communication ports.
  • the processor 570 may include various modules associated with embodiments of the present disclosure.
  • the communication port(s) 560 may be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem-based dialup connection, a 10/100 Ethernet port, a Gigabit or 10 Gigabit port using copper or fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or other existing or future ports.
  • the communication port(s) 560 may be chosen depending on a network, such a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or any network to which the computer system connects.
  • LAN Local Area Network
  • WAN Wide Area Network
  • the main memory 530 may be random access memory (RAM), or any other dynamic storage device commonly known in the art.
  • the read-only memory 540 may be any static storage device(s) e.g., but not limited to, a Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) chips for storing static information e.g., start-up or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) instructions for the processor 570.
  • the mass storage device 550 may be any current or future mass storage solution, which can be used to store information and/or instructions.
  • Exemplary mass storage device 550 includes, but is not limited to, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drives or solid-state drives (internal or external, e.g., having Universal Serial Bus (USB) and/or Firewire interfaces), one or more optical discs, Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) storage, e.g., an array of disks.
  • PATA Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment
  • SATA Serial Advanced Technology Attachment
  • SSD Universal Serial Bus
  • RAID Redundant Array of Independent Disks
  • the bus 520 communicatively couples the processor 570 with the other memory, storage, and communication blocks.
  • the bus 520 may be, e.g., a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI)/PCI Extended (PCI-X) bus, Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Universal Serial Bus (USB), or the like, for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems as well as other buses, such a front side bus (FSB), which connects the processor 570 to the computer system.
  • PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect
  • PCI-X PCI Extended
  • SCSI Small Computer System Interface
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • operator and administrative interfaces e.g., a display, keyboard, joystick, and a cursor control device
  • the bus 520 may also be coupled to the bus 520 to support direct operator interaction with the computer system.
  • Other operator and administrative interfaces can be provided through network connections connected through the communication port(s) 560.
  • Components described above are meant only to exemplify various possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned exemplary computer system limit the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the present system is configured to provide extended dual connectivity to the user equipment (UE).
  • PCRF is crucial for IP-CAN session establishment or modification.
  • PCRF needs to support Extended Bandwidth AVPs.
  • These A VPs provide information about available or allocated bandwidth, enabling PCRF to enforce policies related to QoS and charging. This ensures an optimized user experience and efficient network resource utilization.
  • the present disclosure may be applicable in various use cases where the user is travelling, and it is required to provide high speed connectivity without switching the user from one network function to another. Storing and forwarding of the Extended Bandwidth A VPs when connectivity is available ensures that latency of the network is high. Implementing a robust mechanism for providing Extended Bandwidth AVPs notifications helps in maintaining the integrity of the application and provides a seamless user experience even in challenging network conditions.
  • the method and system of the present disclosure may be implemented in a number of ways.
  • the methods and systems of the present disclosure may be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination of software, hardware, and firmware.
  • the above-described order for the steps of the method is for illustration only, and the steps of the method of the present disclosure are not limited to the order specifically described above unless specifically stated otherwise.
  • the present disclosure may also be embodied as programs recorded in a recording medium, the programs including machine-readable instructions for implementing the methods according to the present disclosure.
  • the present disclosure also covers a recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to the present disclosure.
  • the present disclosure provides technical advancement related to wireless cellular communication. This advancement addresses the limitations of existing solutions by providing a system and method for dual connectivity in 5G NSA.
  • the system and method enable PCRF to understand and process the Extended Bandwidth AVPs during the establishment or modification of IP-CAN sessions.
  • the PCRF manages the policies and charging effectively, considering the combined bandwidth from both the 4G and 5G connections.
  • the disclosure involves modifying the Extended- APN-AMBR DL/UL values without affecting other network services, which offer significant improvements in efficiently managing the network resources by allocating and controlling the maximum data transfer rate.
  • the disclosed invention enhances overall network experience, resulting in achieving the desired dual connectivity in the user equipment.
  • the present disclosure provides an additional support of extended Access Point Name-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs) on a Gx interface.
  • APN-AMBR Extended Access Point Name-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate
  • a VPs Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs
  • the present disclosure provides an extended- APN-AMBR value and
  • the PCRF may send only the extended- APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in a Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
  • PCC Policy and charging control
  • the present disclosure enables the PCRF to send modified policy rules based on user location, and when the user moves into a location with a specific tracking area code for which the throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF modifies the Extended- APN-AMBR DL/UL values without affecting other network services.
  • the present disclosure enables the user to forgo re-attaching to the network to throttle or throttle back to get the default QoS information from Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR).
  • SPR Subscriber Profile Repository
  • the present disclosure prevents network congestion/outages and smoother overall network experience. [00148] The present disclosure facilitates to forgo the user re-attach to the network, when the user comes out of a throttled location to experience basic data transfer rate.
  • the present disclosure facilitates to not affect other network services like audio or video calls.

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Abstract

The disclosed is a system (108) and method (400), for a 5G non-standalone (5G NSA) device and successive generation wireless device such as 6G device, provides an extended-Access Point Name-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) value and an APN-AMBR value, that come in a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message. The Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) may send only the extended-APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message. Further, the PCRF may send modified policy rules based on user location, and when a user moves into a location with a specific tracking area code (TAC) for which throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF may modify Extended-APN-AMBR Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) values without affecting other network services.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD TO CONFIGURE DUAL CONNECTIVITY TO A PLURALITY OF USER EQUIPMENTS
RESERVATION OF RIGHTS
[001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material, which is subject to intellectual property rights such as, but are not limited to, copyright, design, trademark, Integrated Circuit (IC) layout design, and/or trade dress protection, belonging to Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) or its affiliates (herein after referred as owner). The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all rights whatsoever. All rights to such intellectual property are fully reserved by the owner.
FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[002] The present disclosure relates to wireless cellular communications, and specifically to a system and method to provide an additional support of extended Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs) on a Gx interface.
DEFINITION
[003] As used in the present disclosure, the following terms are generally intended to have the meaning as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used to indicate otherwise.
[004] The term PCC used herein, refers to Policy and Charging Control (PCC) rules that plays a crucial role in managing and controlling the policies related to data usage, quality of service (QoS), and charging for network services.
[005] The term PCF as used herein, refers to policy control function (PCF) provides policy rules for control plane functions. This includes network slicing, roaming and mobility management.
[006] The term PCRF as used herein, refers to policy and charging rules function (PCRF) is a policy decision point for subscriber data flows in the network. Using inputs from other network nodes, the PCRF will formulate rules which control how traffic flows (required QoS, restrictions, throttling, blocking, billing, etc) over the network down to individual subscriber granularity.
[007] The term DPI as used herein, refers to deep packet inspection (DPI) is a method of examining and managing network traffic. It is a form of packet filtering that locates, identifies, classifies and reroutes or blocks packets with specific data or code payloads that conventional packet filtering, which examines only packet headers, cannot detect.
[008] The term SMF as used herein, refers to session management function (SMF) establishes, modifies, and terminates, the Packet Data Unit (PDU) sessions established between the UE and the user plane function (UPF) in the network.
[009] The term CHF as used herein, refers to charging function (CHF) is deployed to the network side to complete the billing function. The CHF supports the online charging, offline charging and convergent charging models.
[0010] The term BSF as used herein, refers to a binding support function (BSF) maintains and provides the user identity, the data network name (DNN), UE addresses, and the PCF address for the PDU session. The PCF registers a new session binding information in the BSF and obtains a unique BSF binding ID for the existing PDU session.
[0011] The term NRF as used herein, refers to a network repository function (NRF) is the network node(s) repository (database). The NRF implements registration and discovery of various other 5G network services, either in local or a remote network. The NRF also provides a service for requesting OAuth2 access tokens.
[0012] The term AF as used herein, refers to application function (AF) is a functional entity responsible for handling service- specific aspects and application- related policies. It plays a crucial role in enabling the delivery of various services and applications over the network.
[0013] The term AMF as used herein, refers to access and mobility management function (AMF) is a functional entity responsible for registration management, connection management, reachability management, mobility management and various function relating to security and access management and authorization.
[0014] The term OCS as used herein, refers to online charging system (OCS) is a system allowing a communications service provider to charge their customers, in real time, based on service usage.
[0015] The term PGW as used herein, refers to packet data network gateway (PGW) is a server/system within a mobile network that provides connectivity between the user's device such as a cell phone and other networks such as internet.
[0016] The term NMS as used herein, refers to network management station (NMS) is a server that runs a network management application. Network elements communicate with the NMS to relay management and control information. The NMS also enables network data analysis and reporting.
[0017] The term SPR as used herein, refers to subscriber profile repository (SPR) is a system for storing and managing subscriber-specific policy control data as defined under the 3 GPP standard.
[0018] The term Sd as used herein, refers to Sd interface is to support Application Detection and Control (ADC) rule handling, usage monitoring control of traffic detection function (TDF) sessions and of detected applications. The Sd interface supports reporting of the start and the stop of a detected application’s traffic and transfer of service data flow descriptions for detected applications.
[0019] The term N7 as used herein, refers to N7 interface triggers session management policies towards a session management function (SMF). [0020] The term N28 as used herein, refers to N28 interface supports the key charging and quota handling scenarios.
[0021] The term N15 as used herein, refers to N15 interface is between the Policy Control Function (PCF) and the Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in the case of a non-roaming scenario, or the Visited PCF (vPCF) and Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in case of a roaming scenario.
[0022] The term Rx as used herein, refers to Rx interface enables transport of application-level session information from P-CSCF to PCRF.
[0023] The term Gx as used herein, refers to Gx interface connects the PCRF with policy enforcement points. The serving GPRS support node (SGSN), gateway GPRS support node (GGSN), and PDN Gateway are all considered as enforcement points, supported by the Gx interface.
[0024] The term Sy as used herein, refers to Sy interface connects the PCRF and OCS. It enables the transfer of subscriber spending information from the OCS to PCRF. This allows the PCRF to make policy decisions based on spending limits. The interface uses Diameter and supports initial and intermediate requests to get policy counter statuses and subscribe to status change notifications. It also supports final requests to unsubscribe from all notifications.
[0025] The term TAC as used herein, refers to Tracking Area code which plays an important role in network management and allows for efficient tracking and identification of User Equipment (UE) while moving within the 5G network service.
[0026] The term APN as used herein, refers to Access Point Name is a gateway between a mobile network (GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G and 5G) and another computer network, frequently the public Internet. [0027] The term AMBR as used herein, refers to Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate is the maximum possible bit rate configured by the network operator for a particular user to provide efficient service connection.
[0028] The term APN-AMBR as used herein, refers to access point name Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate. It is a parameter that is used to control the maximum amount of data that can be transferred over a wireless network.
[0029] The term UL as used herein, refers to uplink which is the signal that leaves the user equipment and going back to the service provider cell tower.
[0030] The term DL as used herein, refers to downlink is the signal transmitted from the service provider cell tower to the user equipment.
[0031] The term AVP as used herein, refers to attribute value pair which is given to an information element of a diameter message.
[0032] The term CCR-I as used herein, refers to credit control request initial message which is used by the PCF to request rule from the PCRF as a part of PCC framework.
[0033] The term CCA-I as used herein, refers to credit control answer initial message carries the rule between the PCRF and PCF as a part of PCC framework.
BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE
[0034] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section be used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of prior art. [0035] Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) should support extended Bandwidth Attribute Value Pairs (BW A VPs) in an Internet Protocol (IP) Connectivity Access Network (IP-CAN) session establishment/modification, to provide dual connectivity in a 5G non- standalone (NSA) device.
[0036] In order to provide an authorized Quality of service (QoS) per Access Point Name (APN), QoS -Information Attribute Value Pair (AVP) may not include any other AVP than an APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate(AMBR) Uplink (UL) AVP, an APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate(AMBR) Downlink (DL) AVP, an Extended-APN-AMBR-UL AVP, an Extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or Conditional- APN- Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP. The PCRF may provision authorized QoS per APN, based on information obtained from a Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR) or internal policies.
[0037] When a user moves to service area locations where the bandwidth available on the user and control plane is low, then the PCRF may take an appropriate action to throttle the bandwidth of the user. When the user comes out of the throttled area, the PCRF may push back the normal AMBR rules. The PCRF may manage this by sending modified APN-AMBR values to a Packet Data Network Control Plane (PGW-C). When a 5G NSA user device moves to the nonthrottled area from the throttled area, in that case only modification on the APN- AMBR is not sufficient. The 5G NSA user may consume high control and user plan bandwidth in a low bandwidth service area which will impact other subscriber services.
[0038] There is therefore a need in the art to provide an improved mechanism to overcome the above-mentioned limitations.
OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0039] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an additional support of extended Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN- AMBR) Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs) on a Gx interface.
[0040] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide extended-APN- AMBR value and APN-AMBR value to come in Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message. The PCRF may send only the extended- APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in a Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
[0041] It is an object of the present disclosure to enable the PCRF to send modified policy rules based on user location, and when the user moves into a specific tracking area location for which the throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF modifies the Extended- APN-AMBR DL/UL values without affecting other network services.
[0042] It is an object of the present disclosure to enable the user to forgo reattaching to the network to throttle or throttle back to get the default QoS information from Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR).
[0043] It is an object of the present disclosure to efficiently manage network resources by allocating and controlling a maximum data transfer rate.
[0044] It is an object of the present disclosure to prevent network congestion/outages and smoother overall network experience.
[0045] It is an object of the present disclosure to avoid the user re-attach to the network when the user comes out of a throttled location to experience basic data transfer rate.
[0046] It is an object of the present disclosure to not affect other network services like audio or video calls.
SUMMARY
[0047] The present disclosure discloses a system for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE). The system includes a memory, an input unit, and a processor. The memory is configured to store a pre-defined set of processing rules. The input unit is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW). The processor is configured to cooperate with the input unit to receive the digital number of measurements, and further configured to cooperate with the memory to process the received information using the pre-defined set of processing rules to: extract a set of parameters from the number of measurements; determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC); generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location; transmit the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity; and transmit the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
[0048] In an embodiment, the number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended- APN- AMBR- UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN- AMBR AVP.
[0049] In an embodiment, the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
[0050] The present disclosure discloses a method of configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE). The method includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW). The method includes extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from the number of measurements. The method includes determining, by the processor, a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC). The method includes generating, by the processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location. The method includes transmitting, by the processor, the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity. The method includes transmitting, by the processor, the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity. [0051] The present disclosure discloses a system for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE). The system is configured to receive, by a policy and charging rules function (PCRF), a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW). The system is configured to extract, by the PCRF, a set of parameters from the number of measurements. The system is configured to determine, by the PCRF, a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC). The system is configured to generate, by the PCRF, a set of Policy and Charging Control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location. The system is configured to transmit, by the PCRF, the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity. The system is configured to transmit, by the PCRF, the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
[0052] The present disclosure discloses a computer program product to configure configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE). The instruction comprises receiving a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW). The instruction includes extraction of a set of parameters from said number of measurements and determine a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC). The instruction comprises generating a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location and transmit said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity. The instruction comprises transmission of the said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
[0053] The present disclosure discloses a network function for configuring dual connectivity to a user equipment (UE), wherein the network function is a policy and charging rules function (PCRF). The network function is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW). The network function is configured to extract a set of parameters from the number of measurements. The network function is configured to determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC). The network function is configured to generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location. The network function is configured to transmit the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity. The network function is configured to transmit the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention discloses a user equipment (UE) communicatively coupled with a network. The coupling comprises steps of receiving, by the network, a connection request from the UE, sending, by the network, an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE and transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request for implementing a method of configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs) which includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW), extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from said number of measurements, determining, by said processor, a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC), generating, by said processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location, transmitting, by said processor, said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity, and transmitting, by said processor, said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0055] In the figures, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label with a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.
[0056] The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure, and wherein:
[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture for implementing a system for configuring dual connectivity to one or more user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0058] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary sequence of steps for representing providing of an additional support of the extended dual connectivity (APN AMBR DL UL AVPs) on a Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary representation of a network function for providing an additional support of the extended dual connectivity on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method for configuring dual connectivity to a plurality of user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0061] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which or with which the system may be implemented, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0062] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
100 - Network Architecture
104-1, 104-2. . . 104-N - User Equipments
106 - Network
108 - System
110 - Memory
112 - Input Unit
114 - Processor
302 - Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
304 - Session management function (SMF)
306 - Charging Function (CHF)
308 - Binding Support Function (BSF)
310 - Network Repository Function (NRF)
312 - Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)
314 - Application Function (AF)
316 - Online Charging System (OCS)
318 - Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW)
320 - Network Management System (NMS)
322 - Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR)
324 - (PCF+PCRF) Network Function
400 - Method
510 - External Storage Device
520 - Bus
530 - Main Memory
540 - Read Only Memory
550 - Mass Storage Device
560 - Communication Port
570 - Processor
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DISCLOSURE [0063] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.
[0064] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.
[0065] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.
[0066] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.
[0067] The word “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and/or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive like the term “comprising” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.
[0068] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or “an instance” or “one instance” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0069] The terminology used herein is to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be noted that the terms “mobile device”, “user equipment”, “user device”, “communication device”, “device” and similar terms are used interchangeably for the purpose of describing the invention. These terms are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or imply any specific functionality or limitations on the described embodiments. The use of these terms is solely for convenience and clarity of description. The invention is not limited to any particular type of device or equipment, and it should be understood that other equivalent terms or variations thereof may be used interchangeably without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.
[0070] As used herein, an “electronic device”, or “portable electronic device”, or “user device” or “communication device” or “user equipment” or “device” refers to any electrical, electronic, electromechanical, and computing device. The user device is capable of receiving and/or transmitting one or parameters, performing function/s, communicating with other user devices, and transmitting data to the other user devices. The user equipment may have a processor, a display, a memory, a battery, and an input-means such as a hard keypad and/or a soft keypad. The user equipment may be capable of operating on any radio access technology including but not limited to IP-enabled communication, Zig Bee, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, etc. For instance, the user equipment may include, but not limited to, a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, mainframe computer, or any other device as may be obvious to a person skilled in the art for implementation of the features of the present disclosure.
[0071] Further, the user device may also comprise a “processor” or “processing unit” includes processing unit, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. The processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a digital signal processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input/output processing, and/or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor is a hardware processor.
[0072] As portable electronic devices and wireless technologies continue to improve and grow in popularity, the advancing wireless technologies for data transfer are also expected to evolve and replace the older generations of technologies. In the field of wireless data communications, the dynamic advancement of various generations of cellular technology are also seen. The development, in this respect, has been incremental in the order of second generation (2G), third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and now fifth generation (5G), and more such generations are expected to continue in the forthcoming time.
[0073] Radio Access Technology (RAT) refers to the technology used by mobile devices/ user equipment (UE) to connect to a cellular network. It refers to the specific protocol and standards that govern the way devices communicate with base stations, which are responsible for providing the wireless connection. Further, each RAT has its own set of protocols and standards for communication, which define the frequency bands, modulation techniques, and other parameters used for transmitting and receiving data. Examples of RATs include GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), LTE (Long-Term Evolution), 5G, 6G and more such successive generations. The choice of RAT depends on a variety of factors, including the network infrastructure, the available spectrum, and the mobile device' s/device's capabilities. Mobile devices often support multiple RATs, allowing them to connect to different types of networks and provide optimal performance based on the available network resources.
[0074] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.
[0075] Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF) plays a crucial role in 5G networks, particularly in Non- Standalone (NSA) deployments where 5G is deployed alongside existing 4G infrastructure. Dual connectivity in 5G NSA involves simultaneous connections to both 4G and 5G networks to enhance data rates and reliability. When it comes to the IP Connectivity Access Network (IP- CAN) session establishment or modification in a 5G NSA environment, the PCRF needs to support Extended Bandwidth Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs). AVPs are used in the Diameter protocol, which is commonly used in 3GPP networks for communication between network elements.
[0076] In the context of Extended Bandwidth AVPs, these are parameters or attributes that convey information about the available or allocated bandwidth for a particular IP-CAN session. Extended Bandwidth AVPs are essential for supporting dual connectivity in 5G NSA because they allow the PCRF to make informed decisions about policy and charging based on the available bandwidth across both 4G and 5G connections. The PCRF uses these AVPs to enforce policies related to Quality of Service (QoS), charging, and other aspects of the user's data session. This ensures that the user experience is optimized, and network resources are utilized efficiently.
[0077] In summary, for successful dual connectivity in 5G NSA, the PCRF should be capable of understanding and processing Extended Bandwidth AVPs during the establishment or modification of IP-CAN sessions. This capability enables the PCRF to manage policies and charging effectively, considering the combined bandwidth from both the 4G and 5G connections.
[0078] For a 5G non- standalone (5G NSA) device, an extended- Access Point Name- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) value and the APN- AMBR value, both come in Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message. The network function (Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF)) is configured to send only the extended-APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
[0079] The network function is configured to send modified policy rules based on user location, and when the user moves into a specific Tracking Area Location (TAL) for which throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF is configured to modify the Extended-APN-AMBR Downlink (DL)/ Uplink (UL) values without affecting other network services. The user is not required to re-attach to the network to throttle or throttle back to get default Quality of Service (QoS) information from a Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR).
[0080] The various embodiments throughout the disclosure will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 1- FIG. 4.
[0081] FIG. 1 illustrates an example network architecture (100) for implementing a system (108) for configuring dual connectivity to one or more of user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [0082] As illustrated in FIG. 1, one or more user equipments 104-1, 104- 2. . . 104-N) are connected to the system (108) through a network 106. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the one or more user equipments 104- 1, 104-2. . . 104-N are collectively referred as user equipments 104 and individually referred as a computing device 104.
[0083] In an embodiment, the user equipment 104 includes, but not be limited to, a mobile, a laptop, etc. Further, the user equipment 104 includes one or more in-built or externally coupled accessories including, but not limited to, a visual aid device such as a camera, audio aid, microphone, or keyboard. Furthermore, the user equipment 104 includes a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, a laptop, a general -purpose computer, a desktop, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, and a mainframe computer. Additionally, input devices for receiving input from the user such as a touchpad, touch-enabled screen, electronic pen, and the like may be used.
[0084] In an embodiment, the network 106 includes, by way of example but not limitation, at least a portion of one or more networks having one or more nodes that transmit, receive, forward, generate, buffer, store, route, switch, process, or a combination thereof, etc. one or more messages, packets, signals, waves, voltage or current levels, some combination thereof, or so forth. The network 106 also includes, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet- switched network, a circuit- switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a Public-Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 1, the system (108) includes a memory (110), an input unit (112), and a processor (114). The memory (110) is configured to store a pre-defined set of processing rules. The input unit is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) (located within the network (106)).
[0086] The processor (114) is configured to cooperate with the input unit (112) to receive the digital number of measurements, and further configured to cooperate with the memory (110) to process the received information using the predefined set of processing rules. In an aspect, the number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) UL Attribute Value Pair (A VP), APN- AMBR -DL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-UL A VP, extended- APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN- AMBR AVP.
[0087] The processor (114) is configured to fetch a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) and extracts a set of parameters from the received number of measurements. In an aspect, the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
[0088] The processor (114) is configured to generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location. The updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value. The processor (114) is configured to determine a current location of the user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC). The processor (114) transmits the updated set of parameters and the generated set of PCC rules to the PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity. Otherwise, the processor (114) transmits the extracted set of parameters to the PGW if the determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
[0089] In an exemplary embodiment, the system (108) may be embedded with or within a network function. In an example, the network function is a PCRF. The PCRF is configured to receive a plurality of requests from the PGW via a Gx interface. In an aspect, the plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message, and a Credit Control Request Update (CCR-U) message. In another example, the PCRF is configured to transmit a plurality of requests to the PGW via the Gx interface. In an aspect, the plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Answer (CCA-I) message; and a Credit Control Answer Update (CCA-U) message.
[0090] In an exemplary embodiment, an additional support of the extended APN AMBR DL UL A VPs on a Gx interface is provided to PCRF. The below mentioned execution steps are performed at a server level/PCRF level.
1. The PCRF (coupled/embedded with the system (108)) saves the APN- AMBR UL/DL values for all the users to support a use case and assign the APN-AMBR values (which comes in the CCR-I) after the user moves from a throttle tracking area code (TAC) to non-throttle TAC (LTE).
2. If the user moves from the throttle TAC to the non-throttle TAC (NR), then the PCRF sends the extended-APN-AMBR values in CCA-U for a 5G NSA supported device.
3. For the 5G NSA UE, the extended-APN-AMBR and APN-AMBR both may come in CCR-I, but the PCRF sends only the extended-APN-AMBR value with PCC rules in the CCA-I. The PCRF defines a new PCC rule for installing the extended-APN-AMBR and installs existing PCC rules when only the APN-AMBR is received, irrespective of the throttling or the nonthrottling scenario.
4. The PCRF application stores the extended-APN-AMBR DL/UL values for all 5G NSA users to support this use case.
5. When the PCRF receives create/update requests for the throttled service area locations from PGW-C, it provides the basic rules along with the Extended-APN-AMBR values in order to reduce the data transfer rate. 6. When the 5G NSA user moves out of this throttle location, the PGW-C may send an update request with updated location details. Then, the PCRF provides rules with the original extended-APN-AMBR in the QoS information without getting this information from the SPR. If the subscribers are having different extended-APN-AMBR values, the PCRF provides previous AMBR values without detach-attach procedure.
[0091] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flowchart representing steps of a method (200) of providing an additional support of the extended dual connectivity. In an aspect, the steps are performed by the PCF and PCRF for providing the additional support of the extended dual connectivity (APN AMBR DL UL AVPs) on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0092] At step 202, the PCRF (system 108) is configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) or PDN Gateway CP (PGW-C). In an exemplary embodiment, the number of measurements is at least one of APN- Aggregate-Max-Bitrate UL AVP, APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate-DL AVP, extended- APN- AMBR-UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP.
[0093] At step 204, the PCRF is configured to extract the extended-APN- AMBR-UL AVP, and extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP from the received measurements and transmits the same to the PGW-C. In an aspect, the PCG-W is configured to store the received values for this session.
[0094] At step 206, when the UE moves from a non-barring area (nonlimited connectivity) to barring area (limited connectivity), and the PCRF is configured to receive CCR-U having a notification of tracking area code (TAC) change notification.
[0095] At step 208, the PCRF is configured to transmit the extracted set of parameters and a generated set of PCC rules to the PGW using CCA-U. In an example, the extracted set of parameters includes throttle extended APN-AMBR UL/DL values.
[0096] At step 210, when the UE moves from a barring area (limited connectivity) to non-barring area (non- limited connectivity), the PCRF is configured to receive CCR-U having a notification of tracking area code (TAC) change notification.
[0097] At step 212, the PCRF is configured to transmit the original extended APN-AMBR UE/DE values to the PGW using CCA-U.
[0098] FIG. 3 illustrates a connectivity diagram of various connections/interfaces between the network function (324) and other modules (functions) in a 5G network. In an embodiment, the network function (324) provides an additional support of the extended dual connectivity on the Gx interface, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, the network function (324) is connected to a deep packet inspection (DPI) 302, a session management function (SMF) 304, a charging function (CHF) 306, a binding support function (BSF) 308, a network repository function (NRF) 310, an access and mobility management function (AMF) 312, an application function (AF) 314, an online charging system (OCS) 316, a packet data network gateway (PGW) 318, a network management system (NMS) 320, and a subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322.
[0099] In an aspect, the deep packet inspection (DPI) 302 examines and analyses the content of data packets as they pass through the network. The deep packet inspection (DPI) 302 enables traffic management, network security, and application optimization by inspecting and classifying data packets based on content. In an aspect, the DPI communicates with the network function through the Sd interface. The Sd interface supports reporting of the start and the stop of a detected application’s traffic and transfer of service data flow descriptions for detected applications. [00100] In an aspect, the session management function (SMF) 304 manages and controls user sessions in the 5G network. The session management function (SMF) 304 facilitates the establishment, modification, and termination of user sessions, ensuring efficient and secure communication. In an aspect, the SMF communicates with the network function via N7 interface. The N7 interface triggers session management policies towards a session management function (SMF).
[00101] In an aspect, the charging function (CHF) 306 manages charging and billing aspects for subscriber services. The charging function (CHF) 306 handles charging and billing information related to data usage, ensuring accurate billing for the provided services. In an aspect, the CHF communicates with the network function via N28 interface. N28 interface supports the key charging and quota handling scenarios.
[00102] In an aspect, the binding support function (BSF) 308 supports the binding of the user plane to the user's data session. The binding support function (BSF) 308 assists in establishing and maintaining connections between the user plane and user's data session, contributing to seamless data communication. In an aspect, the BSF communicates with the network function via Nbfs.
[00103] In an aspect, the network repository function (NRF) 310 supports the service discovery function, maintains NF profile and available NF instances. The network repository function (NRF) 310 supports the network in discovering and selecting appropriate network functions and instances to optimize service delivery. In an aspect, the NRF communicates with the network function via Nnrf.
[00104] In an aspect, the access and mobility management function (AMF) 312 manages access and mobility aspects for user devices in the 5G network. The access and mobility management function (AMF) 312 handles access control, mobility management, and connection establishment for user devices. In an aspect, the AMF communicates with the network function via N15 interface. The N15 interface is between the Policy Control Function (PCF) and the Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in the case of a non-roaming scenario, or the Visited PCF (vPCF) and Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) in case of a roaming scenario.
[00105] In an aspect, the application function (AF) 314 manages and optimizes application-level functions and services. The application function (AF) 314 supports service- specific functionalities and optimizations for various applications running on the 5G network. In an aspect, the AF communicates with the network function via Rx interface. The Rx interface enables transport of application-level session information from P-CSCF to PCRF.
[00106] In an aspect, the online charging system (OCS) 316 handles realtime charging and credit management for subscriber services. The online charging system (OCS) 316 enables real-time monitoring and charging for data usage and services, ensuring accurate billing and credit management. In an aspect, the OCS communicates with the network function via Sy interface. The Sy interface connects the PCRF and OCS. It enables the transfer of subscriber spending information from the OCS to PCRF.
[00107] In an aspect, the packet data network gateway (PGW) 318 connects the 5G network to external data networks. The packet data network gateway (PGW) acts as a gateway for data traffic, providing connectivity between the 5G network and external data networks, including the internet. In an aspect, the PGW communicates with the network function via Gx interface.
[00108] In an aspect, the network management system (NMS) 320 manages and monitors the overall performance of the 5G network. The network management system (NMS) facilitates the configuration, monitoring, and maintenance of network elements to ensure efficient and reliable network operation.
[00109] In an aspect, the subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322 stores and manages subscriber profiles and subscription-related information. The subscriber profile repository (SPR) 322 provides a centralized repository for subscriber data, supporting authentication and authorization processes. [00110] In an aspect, the network function (PCF+ PCRF) 324 enforces policies and rules related to network resource usage, quality of service, and charging. The network function ensures the efficient allocation of network resources, enforces quality of service policies, and facilitates dynamic charging based on service usage.
[00111] In an exemplary embodiment, the user equipment (UE) requests the Access and mobility management (AMF) for a service. Based on the requested service, a Session Management Function (SMF) is selected for managing the user session.
[00112] In an aspect, the N15 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and AMF 312.
[00113] In an aspect, the N7 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and SMF 304 during session establishment and modification.
[00114] In an aspect the N28 interface is a reference point for interaction between the network function (PCF+PCRF) 324 and CHF 306. The interface supports key charging and quota handling services in the network services.
[00115] The disclosed system and method facilitate to efficiently manage network resources by allocating and controlling the maximum data transfer rate. Further, it prevents network congestion/outages and smoothens overall network experience. In addition, a re-attach to the network is not required when the user comes out of a throttled location to experience basic data transfer rate. Furthermore, this ensures the other network services like audio or video calls are not affected.
[00116] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flow chart of a method (400) for configuring dual connectivity to one or more user equipments (UEs), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [00117] In an aspect, dual connectivity in 5G NSA involves simultaneous connections to both 4G and 5G networks to enhance data rates and reliability. The combination of 5G and 4G LTE may provide additional bandwidth that increases 5G network speed and reliability. Dual connectivity enables user equipment to maintain uninterrupted and smooth communication.
[00118] At step 402, the method (400) involves receiving a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) via an input unit.
[00119] In an aspect, the packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW) acts as a gateway for data traffic, providing connectivity between the 5G network and external data networks, including the internet. The number of measurements associated with the user equipment session is received via the input unit from a packet data network (PDN) gateway.
[00120] In an exemplary aspect, the number of measurements is at least one of APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate UL AVP, APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate-DL AVP, extended- APN-AMBR-UL AVP, extended-APN-AMBR-DL AVP and/or conditional- APN-Aggregate-Max-Bitrate AVP.
[00121] At step 404, a processor extracts a set of parameters from the received measurements. In an aspect, the set of parameters includes extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
[00122] In an exemplary aspect, the processor extracts the set of parameters by sending a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the extended Access Point Name (APN) Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs). [00123] At step 406, a user equipment’s current location is determined by the processor using a tracking area code (TAC). In an aspect, the user equipment’s current location may include the present location, remote location and varying location as per the user movement.
[00124] In an exemplary aspect, the processor determines the current location of the user equipment by the tracking area code (TAC). The tracking area code (TAC) is a numerical identifier used in cellular network to identify user equipment location. The location may be determined by the processor using location service configured in the user equipment. The location service includes GPS, Wi-fi, mobile network and sensors.
[00125] At step 408, the method (400) includes generation of a set of policy and charges control (PCC) rules and updating the set of parameters based on the determined user equipment location.
[00126] In an exemplary aspect, the processor generates a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on the determined location. The processor sends the Credit Control Request Initial (CCR- I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the set of policy and charging control (PCC) via the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message. The updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value. The throttle extended APN-AMBR Uplink or Downlink value indicates the maximum aggregate bit rate in kbit per second for uplink or downlink direction.
[00127] In an exemplary aspect the processor generates a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rule by sending the Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message to the PCRF configured in the user equipment and receives the set of policy and charging control (PCC) via the Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message using the information collected from various network functions such as the SMF, AMF, CHF, UDR, AF, etc. [00128] In an aspect, the determined location may include the user equipment’ s present location, remote location and varying location according to the user movement.
[00129] At Step 410, the type of the connectivity area based on the tracking area code (TAC) is determined. In an aspect the type of connectivity area includes limited connectivity area (barring area) and non-limited connectivity area (nonbarring area). In an aspect, the limited connectivity area are locations where the user equipment faces an error in communicating with network and the non-limited connectivity area are locations where the user equipment has good communication with the network.
[00130] At Step 412, the method (400) involves transmission of an updated set of parameters and generated set of PCC rules to PCW, if the determined TAC is associated with limited connectivity area. In an aspect, the updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN-AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN- AMBR DL value.
[00131] In an aspect, the set of PCC rules are information that is required to be applied on the user equipment for better and efficient communication. The PCC rules are applied based on the user’s network traffic.
[00132] At Step 414, the method (400) involves transmission of the processor extracted set of parameters to PGW, if the determined TAC is associated to a nonlimited connectivity area. In an aspect, the non-limited connectivity area where the user equipment has good connectivity with the network.
[00133] In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention discloses a user equipment (UE) (104) communicatively coupled with a network (106). The coupling comprises steps of receiving, by the network (106), a connection request from the UE (104) , sending, by the network (106) , an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE and transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request for implementing a method of configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs) which includes receiving, by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW), extracting, by a processor, a set of parameters from said number of measurements, determining, by said processor, a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC), generating, by said processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location, transmitting, by said processor, said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having limited connectivity, and transmitting, by said processor, said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
[00134] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary computer system (500) in which or with which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 5, the computer system may include an external storage device 510, a bus 520, a main memory 530, a read-only memory 540, a mass storage device 550, communication port(s) 560, and a processor 570. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer system may include more than one processor and communication ports. The processor 570 may include various modules associated with embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication port(s) 560 may be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem-based dialup connection, a 10/100 Ethernet port, a Gigabit or 10 Gigabit port using copper or fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or other existing or future ports. The communication port(s) 560 may be chosen depending on a network, such a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or any network to which the computer system connects.
[00135] The main memory 530 may be random access memory (RAM), or any other dynamic storage device commonly known in the art. The read-only memory 540 may be any static storage device(s) e.g., but not limited to, a Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) chips for storing static information e.g., start-up or Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) instructions for the processor 570. The mass storage device 550 may be any current or future mass storage solution, which can be used to store information and/or instructions. Exemplary mass storage device 550 includes, but is not limited to, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drives or solid-state drives (internal or external, e.g., having Universal Serial Bus (USB) and/or Firewire interfaces), one or more optical discs, Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) storage, e.g., an array of disks.
[00136] The bus 520 communicatively couples the processor 570 with the other memory, storage, and communication blocks. The bus 520 may be, e.g., a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI)/PCI Extended (PCI-X) bus, Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Universal Serial Bus (USB), or the like, for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems as well as other buses, such a front side bus (FSB), which connects the processor 570 to the computer system.
[00137] Optionally, operator and administrative interfaces, e.g., a display, keyboard, joystick, and a cursor control device, may also be coupled to the bus 520 to support direct operator interaction with the computer system. Other operator and administrative interfaces can be provided through network connections connected through the communication port(s) 560. Components described above are meant only to exemplify various possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned exemplary computer system limit the scope of the present disclosure.
[00138] The present system is configured to provide extended dual connectivity to the user equipment (UE). In 5G NSA deployments, PCRF is crucial for IP-CAN session establishment or modification. For successful dual connectivity, PCRF needs to support Extended Bandwidth AVPs. These A VPs provide information about available or allocated bandwidth, enabling PCRF to enforce policies related to QoS and charging. This ensures an optimized user experience and efficient network resource utilization. With the fast advances of 5G standardization, the present disclosure may be applicable in various use cases where the user is travelling, and it is required to provide high speed connectivity without switching the user from one network function to another. Storing and forwarding of the Extended Bandwidth A VPs when connectivity is available ensures that latency of the network is high. Implementing a robust mechanism for providing Extended Bandwidth AVPs notifications helps in maintaining the integrity of the application and provides a seamless user experience even in challenging network conditions.
[00139] The method and system of the present disclosure may be implemented in a number of ways. For example, the methods and systems of the present disclosure may be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The above-described order for the steps of the method is for illustration only, and the steps of the method of the present disclosure are not limited to the order specifically described above unless specifically stated otherwise. Further, in some embodiments, the present disclosure may also be embodied as programs recorded in a recording medium, the programs including machine-readable instructions for implementing the methods according to the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure also covers a recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to the present disclosure.
[00140] The present disclosure provides technical advancement related to wireless cellular communication. This advancement addresses the limitations of existing solutions by providing a system and method for dual connectivity in 5G NSA. The system and method enable PCRF to understand and process the Extended Bandwidth AVPs during the establishment or modification of IP-CAN sessions. The PCRF manages the policies and charging effectively, considering the combined bandwidth from both the 4G and 5G connections. The disclosure involves modifying the Extended- APN-AMBR DL/UL values without affecting other network services, which offer significant improvements in efficiently managing the network resources by allocating and controlling the maximum data transfer rate. By implementing modifying policy rules based on user location, the disclosed invention enhances overall network experience, resulting in achieving the desired dual connectivity in the user equipment.
[00141] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be implemented merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.
ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[00142] The present disclosure provides an additional support of extended Access Point Name-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (APN-AMBR) Downlink/Uplink Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs) on a Gx interface.
[00143] The present disclosure provides an extended- APN-AMBR value and
APN-AMBR value to come in Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message. The PCRF may send only the extended- APN-AMBR value with a new policy and charging control (PCC) rule in a Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message.
[00144] The present disclosure enables the PCRF to send modified policy rules based on user location, and when the user moves into a location with a specific tracking area code for which the throttling by network requirement is in effect, the PCRF modifies the Extended- APN-AMBR DL/UL values without affecting other network services.
[00145] The present disclosure enables the user to forgo re-attaching to the network to throttle or throttle back to get the default QoS information from Subscriber Profile Repository (SPR). [00146] The present disclosure efficiently manages network resources by allocating and controlling a maximum data transfer rate.
[00147] The present disclosure prevents network congestion/outages and smoother overall network experience. [00148] The present disclosure facilitates to forgo the user re-attach to the network, when the user comes out of a throttled location to experience basic data transfer rate.
[00149] The present disclosure facilitates to not affect other network services like audio or video calls.

Claims

1. A system (108) for configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs), said system (108) comprising: a memory (110) configured to store a pre-defined set of processing rules; an input unit (112) configured to receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW); and a processor (114) configured to cooperate with said input unit to receive said number of measurements, and further configured to cooperate with said memory to process said received measurements using said predefined set of processing rules to: extract a set of parameters from said number of measurements; determine a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC); generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location; transmit said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity; and transmit said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
2. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR)- Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended-Access Point Name (APN)- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended-Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), and conditional- Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Attribute Value Pair (A VP).
3. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said set of parameters includes extended APN Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
4. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN- AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value.
5. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) configured to receive a plurality of requests from said PGW via a Gx interface, wherein said plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Request Initial (CCR-I) message, and a Credit Control Request Update (CCR-U) message.
6. The system (108) as claimed in claim 1, comprises a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) configured to transmit a plurality of requests to said PGW via said Gx interface, wherein said plurality of requests includes a Credit Control Answer Initial (CCA-I) message; and a Credit Control Answer Update (CCA-U) message.
7. A method (400) of configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs), said method comprising: receiving (402), by an input unit, a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW); extracting (404), by a processor, a set of parameters from said number of measurements; determining (406), by said processor, a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC); generating (408), by said processor, a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location; transmitting (412), by said processor, said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC (410) is associated to an area having limited connectivity; and transmitting (414), by said processor, said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC (410) is associated to an area having non-limited connectivity.
8. The method (400) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said number of measurements is at least one of Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR)- Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended-Access Point Name (APN)- Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), extended-Access Point Name (APN)-Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL) Attribute Value Pair (A VP), and conditional- Access Point Name (APN) - Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Attribute Value Pair (A VP).
9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said set of parameters includes extended APN Aggregate Maximum Bit Rate (AMBR) Downlink (DL)/Uplink (UL) Attribute Value Pairs (A VPs).
10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said updated set of parameters includes a throttle extended APN- AMBR UL value and a throttle extended APN-AMBR DL value.
11. A user equipment (UE) (104) communicatively coupled with a network (106), the coupling comprises steps of: receiving, by the network (106), a connection request from the UE (104); sending, by the network (106), an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE (104); and transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request, wherein configuring dual connectivity for one or more user equipments (UEs) is implemented by a method (400) as claimed in claim 7.
12. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer- readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receive a number of measurements associated with a user equipment (UE) session from a packet data network (PDN) gateway (PGW); extract a set of parameters from said number of measurements; determine a current location of said user equipment using a tracking area code (TAC); generate a set of policy and charging control (PCC) rules and an updated set of parameters based on said determined location; transmit said updated set of parameters and said generated set of PCC rules to said PGW, if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a limited connectivity; and transmit said extracted set of parameters to said PGW if said determined TAC is associated to an area having a non-limited connectivity.
PCT/IN2024/051095 2023-07-20 2024-07-08 System and method to configure dual connectivity to a plurality of user equipments Pending WO2025017606A1 (en)

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Citations (2)

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US20170105093A1 (en) * 2012-07-10 2017-04-13 Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) Reducing signaling load caused by change of terminal location
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US20170105093A1 (en) * 2012-07-10 2017-04-13 Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) Reducing signaling load caused by change of terminal location
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