Access network selection in a multi-access network environment

摘要

Novel techniques of access network selection in multi-access network environment are provided, which allow for avoiding access selection loops for independent access selection processes. The multi-access network environment provides a first access selection function, e.g. a 3GPP access selection function, and a second access selection function, e.g. an ANDSF based access selection function. At least a portion of the first access selection function (565) may be implemented by a network component (560). At least a portion of the second access selection function (110) may be implemented by a user equipment (100), e.g. a mobile terminal. According to the proposed concepts, a selection priority information of the first access selection function (565) is made available to the second access selection function (110).

主权项

1. A method of access network selection in a multi-access network environment with a plurality of access networks, the plurality of access networks comprising a first subgroup of access networks and a second subgroup of access networks which are not part of the first subgroup of access networks,
wherein at least a first access selection function and a second access selection function are provided, the first access selection function being configured to select an access network from the first subgroup on the basis of a first set of selection rules and the second access selection function being configured to select at least one access network from both the first subgroup and the second subgroup on the basis of a second set of selection rules, wherein the method comprises: making a selection priority information of the first access selection function available to the second access selection function, wherein the selection priority information indicates a priority order with which the first access selection function selects access networks in the first subgroup.