DESC:
FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SELECTING PATH FOR COMMUNICATION WITHIN COMMUNICATION NETWORK

2. APPLICANT(S)
NAME NATIONALITY ADDRESS
JIO PLATFORMS LIMITED INDIAN OFFICE-101, SAFFRON, NR. CENTRE POINT, PANCHWATI 5 RASTA, AMBAWADI, AHMEDABAD 380006, GUJARAT, INDIA
3.PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE NATURE OF THIS INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of telecommunications and, more specifically, to a method and a system for selecting a most optimal path for communication between Security Edge Protection Proxies (SEPPs) in different Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In today's interconnected world, network communication plays a vital role in facilitating seamless connectivity between various entities. Specifically, in the context of a Security Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP) within a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), the efficiency and performance of communication paths are crucial for delivering reliable services (e.g., call service, message service or the like). The performance of a network element, such as a SEPP node, can be measured by the requests it processes and the time it takes to process each individual request. However, due to the complex nature of a network infrastructure, not all communication paths are equal in terms of performance or quality of service. For example, the request travels to multiple hops, such as from a home SEPP (hSEPP) to a visitor SEPP (vSEPP), then, a visitor Service Control Point (SCP) to a visitor network function (NF), and so on. It is to be noted that the SCP performs mediation by harmonizing messages between a fifth generation core (5GC) NFs of a same operator even if the NFs belong to different vendors and are of different 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) releases. The SEPP performs dynamic mediation for inter-PLMN connections where interoperability issues are more likely to occur. Even the connection to the visitor SEPP may be an indirect connection with multiple hops involving different Internet Protocol eXchanges (IPXs), since the visitors may be in different country, within same country, within same state etc. Since not all connections are identical to each other in performance or quality of service, complexity of network infrastructure arises.
[0003] Traditionally, selecting an optimal path for communication between the SEPPs in the different PLMNs has been challenging. The presence of both direct and indirect communication paths through the IPX introduces further complexity. The IPX providers offer internet connectivity between countries, and the selection of the most optimal path in real-time becomes crucial for efficient communication. Current techniques for path selection in the SEPPs often lack the ability to consider various network and business parameters, such as latency, error events, cost, and transaction per second (TPS) supported by peer nodes. Moreover, the static nature of path selection algorithms limits adaptability to dynamic network conditions, resulting in suboptimal performance.
[0004] The problem addressed by the present invention lies in the selection of the optimal path for SEPP communication between a first PLMN and a second PLMN when both direct and multiple indirect communication paths through IPX are available. The objective is to determine the most optimal path at runtime, considering factors such as network performance, cost, and latency, while taking into account the geographical distribution of the SEPP nodes and their connection to foreign vendors.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] One or more embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and a method for selecting a path for communication within a communication network.
[0006] In one aspect of the present invention, a method of selecting a path for communication within a communication network is disclosed. The method includes selecting, by one or more processors, a first communication path for Securities Edge Protection Proxies (SEPP) communication between a plurality of network elements. Further, the method includes processing, by the one or more processors, requests for communication received from the plurality of network elements, on the first communication path. Further, the method includes collecting, by the one or more processors, one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path within periodic time intervals. Further, the method includes training, by the one or more processors, a learning module to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds. Further, the method includes selecting, by the one or more processors, a second communication path for the SEPP communication by using the trained learning module.
[0007] In an embodiment, the communication network includes a plurality of public land mobile networks (PLMNs), and the SEPP communication includes communication between a network element existing in a first PLMN and another network element existing in a second PLMN, and wherein a network element is a SEPP node.
[0008] In an embodiment, the SEPP communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN, includes at least one direct communication and at least one indirect communication.
[0009] In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters comprise latency, error events, Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) cost and transaction per second (TPS).
[0010] In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters depend on a geographical distribution of a plurality of network elements within the communication network, and connection between one or more network elements.
[0011] In an embodiment, the network element can be a SEPP node.
[0012] In an embodiment, one or more network parameters associated with the second communication path are within the one or more configurable thresholds.
[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, a system of selecting a path for a communication within a communication network is disclosed. The system includes a communication unit configured to select a first communication path for SEPP communication and process requests for communication on the first communication path. Further, the system includes a monitoring unit configured to collect one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path at periodic time intervals. Further, the system includes a training unit configured to train a learning module to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds. Further, the system includes a selection unit configured to use the trained learning module to select a second communication path for the SEPP communication.
[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to select, a first communication path for the SEPP communication, where a prehistoric data for the first communication path is null, process requests for communication on the first communication path, collect, one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path at periodic time intervals, retrain, a learning module to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds, and facilitate, the learning module to select a second communication path for the SEPP communication based on the one or more network parameters.
[0015] Other features and aspects of this invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. The features and advantages described in this summary and in the following detailed description are not all-inclusive, and particularly, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, in view of the drawings, specification, and claims hereof. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter, resort to the claims being necessary to determine such inventive subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
[0017] FIG. 1 is an exemplary block diagram of an environment for selecting a path for communication within a communication network, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system of FIG. 1, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 3 is an example schematic representation of the system of FIG. 1 in which various entities operations are explained, according to various embodiments of the present system.
[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates an example block diagram of a system configured for selecting optimal path for SEPPs in different PLMNs, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 5 shows a sequence flow diagram illustrating a method for selecting the path for communication within the communication network, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 6 is an example flow chart illustrating the method steps involved in selecting the most optimal path for communication between the SEPPs in different the PLMNs, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0023] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
[0024] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following detailed description of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] Some embodiments of the present disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0026] Various modifications to the embodiment will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present disclosure including the definitions listed here below are not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
[0027] A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily ascertain that the illustrated steps detailed in the figures and here below are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[0028] Various embodiments of the invention provide a method of selecting a path for communication within a communication network. The method includes selecting, by one or more processors, a first communication path for SEPP communication between a plurality of network elements. Further, the method includes processing, by the one or more processors, requests for communication received from the plurality of network elements, on the first communication path. Further, the method includes collecting, by the one or more processors, one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path within periodic time intervals. Further, the method includes training, by the one or more processors, a learning module to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds. Further, the method includes selecting, by the one or more processors, a second communication path for the SEPP communication by using the trained learning module.
[0029] The present invention addresses the problem of selecting the most optimal path for communication between SEPPs in different PLMNs. In this interconnected world, not all communication paths are equal in terms of performance or quality of service, and the efficiency of a network element, such as a SEPP node, depends on the requests it processes and the time taken for each request. The invention leverages the power of machine learning to enhance SEPP's path selection capabilities and provides a solution that considers various network and business parameters, including latency, error events, and IPX cost.
[0030] The invention renders the advantageous aspects, such as enabling SEPP to find the most optimal path, detecting performance degradation, and warning a management system before significant impacts occur. The system dynamically retrains itself with real-time data to achieve maximum performance and quality.
[0031] The invention mainly focuses on the integration of machine learning to improve path selection capabilities, the real-time retraining of the model, and the consideration of both network layer and business parameters.
[0032] The invention includes, but may not be limited to following steps. For example, initially, a random path is selected when a learning model is untrained and lacks prehistoric data. Requests are processed and forwarded through the identified path. The performance and quality of the path are continuously monitored, and significant deviations trigger data transmission to the retrain module. Optimal paths for all combinations are periodically predicted at regular intervals to match the rate of request reception When sufficient real-world performance data is collected, the model undergoes retraining for optimization. Hence, the invention's system and method effectively solve the problem of selecting the most efficient path for SEPP communication between a first PLMN and a second PLMN when direct and multiple indirect IPX communication paths are available, resulting in improved network performance and reliable services.
[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an environment (100) for selecting a path for communication within a communication network (106), according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The environment (100) comprises a plurality of user equipment’s (UEs) 102-1, 102-2, ……,102-n. The at least one UE (102-n) from the plurality of the UEs (102-1, 102-2, ……102-n) is configured to connect to a system (108) via the communication network (106).
[0034] In accordance with yet another aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the plurality of UEs (102) may be a wireless device or a communication device that may be a part of the system (108). The wireless device or the UE (102) may include, but are not limited to, a handheld wireless communication device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smart phone, a phablet device, and so on), a wearable computer device (e.g., a head-mounted display computer device, a head-mounted camera device, a wristwatch computer device, and so on), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or another type of portable computer, a media playing device, a portable gaming system, and/or any other type of computer device with wireless communication or VoIP capabilities. In an embodiment, the UEs may include, but are not limited to, any electrical, electronic, electro-mechanical or an equipment or a combination of one or more of the above devices such as virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, mainframe computer, or any other computing device, wherein the computing device may include one or more in-built or externally coupled accessories including, but not limited to, a visual aid device such as camera, audio aid, a microphone, a keyboard, input devices for receiving input from a user such as touch pad, touch enabled screen, electronic pen and the like. It may be appreciated that the UEs may not be restricted to the mentioned devices and various other devices may be used. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the plurality of UEs (102) may include a fixed landline, a landline with assigned extension within the communication network (106).
[0035] The plurality of UEs (102) may comprise a memory such as a volatile memory (e.g., RAM), a non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, etc.), an unalterable memory, and/or other types of memory. In one implementation, the memory might be configured or designed to store data. The data may pertain to attributes and access rights specifically defined for the plurality of UEs (102). The UE (102) may be accessed by the user, to receive the requests related to an order determined by the system (108). The communication network (106), may use one or more communication interfaces/protocols such as, for example, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP), 802.11 (Wi-Fi), 802.15 (including Bluetooth™), 802.16 (Wi-Max), 802.22, Cellular standards such as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), CDMA2000, Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), Radio Frequency Identification (e.g., RFID), Infrared, laser, Near Field Magnetics, etc.
[0036] A system (108) is communicatively coupled to a server (104) via a communication network (106). The server (104) can be, for example, but not limited to a standalone server, a server blade, a server rack, an application server, a bank of servers, a business telephony application server (BTAS), a server farm, a cloud server, an edge server, home server, a virtualized server, one or more processors executing code to function as a server, or the like. In an implementation, the server (104) may operate at various entities or a single entity (include, but is not limited to, a vendor side, a service provider side, a network operator side, a company side, an organization side, a university side, a lab facility side, a business enterprise side, a defence facility side, or any other facility) that provides service.
[0037] The communication network (106) 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. The communication network (106) may include, but is not limited to, a Third Generation (3G), a Fourth Generation (4G), a Fifth Generation (5G), a Sixth Generation (6G), a New Radio (NR), a Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT), an Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN), and the like.
[0038] The communication network (106) may also include, 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 communication network (106) may also include, 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, a VOIP or some combination thereof.
[0039] The one or more network elements (106a-106n) can be, for example, but not limited to a base station that is located in the fixed or stationary part of the communication network (106). The base station may correspond to a remote radio head, a transmission point, an access point or access node, a macro cell, a small cell, a micro cell, a femto cell, a metro cell. The base station enables transmission of radio signals to the UE or mobile transceiver. Such a radio signal may comply with radio signals as, for example, standardized by a 3GPP or, generally, in line with one or more of the above listed systems. Thus, a base station may correspond to a NodeB, an eNodeB, a Base Transceiver Station (BTS), an access point, a remote radio head, a transmission point, which may be further divided into a remote unit and a central unit.
[0040] 3GPP: The term “3GPP” is a 3rd Generation Partnership Project and is a collaborative project between a group of telecommunications associations with the initial goal of developing globally applicable specifications for Third Generation (3G) mobile systems. The 3GPP specifications cover cellular telecommunications technologies, including radio access, core network, and service capabilities, which provide a complete system description for mobile telecommunications. The 3GPP specifications also provide hooks for non-radio access to the core network, and for networking with non-3GPP networks.
[0041] The system (108) may include one or more processors (202) coupled with a memory (204), wherein the memory (204) may store instructions which when executed by the one or more processors (202) may cause the system (108) executing requests in the communication network (106) or the server (104). An exemplary representation of the system (108) for such purpose, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown in FIG. 2 as system (108). In an embodiment, the system (108) may include one or more processor(s) (202). The one or more processor(s) (202) may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the one or more processor(s) (202) may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory (204) of the system (108). The memory (204) may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service.
[0042] The environment (100) further includes the system (108) communicably coupled to a remote server (104) and each UE of the plurality of UEs (102) via the communication network (106). The remote server (104) is configured to execute the requests in the communication network (106).
[0043] The system (108) is adapted to be embedded within the remote server (104) or is embedded as the individual entity. The system (108) is designed to provide a centralized and unified view of data and facilitate efficient business operations. The system (108) is authorized to access to update/create/delete one or more parameters of their relationship between the requests for the workflow, which gets reflected in real-time independent of the complexity of network.
[0044] In another embodiment, the system (108) may include an enterprise provisioning server (for example), which may connect with the remote server (104). The enterprise provisioning server provides flexibility for enterprises, ecommerce, finance to update/create/delete information related to the requests in real time as per their business needs. A user with administrator rights can access and retrieve the requests for the workflow and perform real-time analysis in the system (108).
[0045] The system (108) may include, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a standalone server, a server blade, a server rack, a bank of servers, a business telephony application server (BTAS), a server farm, hardware supporting a part of a cloud service or system, a home server, hardware running a virtualized server, one or more processors executing code to function as a server, one or more machines performing server-side functionality as described herein, at least a portion of any of the above, some combination thereof. In an implementation, system (108) may operate at various entities or single entity (for example include, but is not limited to, a vendor side, service provider side, a network operator side, a company side, an organization side, a university side, a lab facility side, a business enterprise side, ecommerce side, finance side, a defence facility side, or any other facility) that provides service.
[0046] However, for the purpose of description, the system (108) is described as an integral part of the remote server (104), without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Operational and construction features of the system (108) will be explained in detail with respect to the following figures.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the system (108) provided for selecting the path for communication within the communication network (106), according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As per the illustrated embodiment, the system (108) includes the one or more processors (202), the memory (204), an input/output interface unit (206), a display (208), an input device (210), and a centralized database (214). Further the system (108) may comprise one or more processors (202). The one or more processors (202), hereinafter referred to as the processor (202) may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, single board computers, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. As per the illustrated embodiment, the system (108) includes one processor. However, it is to be noted that the system (108) may include multiple processors as per the requirement and without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0048] The information related to the request may be provided or stored in the memory (204) of the system (108). Among other capabilities, the processor (202) is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory (204). The memory (204) may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory (204) may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as RAM, or non-volatile memory such as disk memory, EPROMs, FLASH memory, unalterable memory, and the like.
[0049] The memory (204) may comprise any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as Random-Access Memory (RAM), or non-volatile memory such as Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like. In an embodiment, the system (108) may include an interface(s). The interface(s) may comprise a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and output devices, referred to as input/output (I/O) devices, storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) may facilitate communication for the system. The interface(s) may also provide a communication pathway for one or more components of the system. Examples of such components include, but are not limited to, processing unit/engine(s) and a database. The processing unit/engine(s) may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processing engine(s).
[0050] The information related to the requests may further be configured to render on the user interface (206). The user interface (206) may include functionality similar to at least a portion of functionality implemented by one or more computer system interfaces such as those described herein and/or generally known to one having ordinary skill in the art. The user interface (206) may be rendered on the display (208), implemented using Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) display technology, Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display technology, and/or other types of conventional display technology. The display (208) may be integrated within the system (108) or connected externally. Further the input device(s) (210) may include, but not limited to, keyboard, buttons, scroll wheels, cursors, touchscreen sensors, audio command interfaces, magnetic strip reader, optical scanner, etc.
[0051] A centralized database (214) may be communicably connected to the processor (202) and the memory (204). The centralized database (214) may be configured to store and retrieve the request pertaining to features, or services or workflow of the system (108), access rights, attributes, approved list, and authentication data provided by an administrator. Further the remote server (104) may allow the system (108) to update/create/delete one or more parameters of their information related to the request, which provides flexibility to roll out multiple variants of the request as per business needs. In another embodiment, the centralized database (214) may be outside the system (108) and communicated through a wired medium and wireless medium.
[0052] Further, the processor (202), in an embodiment, may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processor (202). In the examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processor (202) may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the processor (202) may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the memory (204) may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processor (202). In such examples, the system (108) may comprise the memory (204) storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the memory (204) may be separate but accessible to the system (108) and the processing resource. In other examples, the processor (202) may be implemented by an electronic circuitry.
[0053] In order for the system (108) to execute the requests in the communication network (106), the processor (202) includes a communication unit (212), a monitoring unit (216), a training unit (218), a selection unit (220) and a learning module (222). In an embodiment, the communication unit (212) is outside of the processor (202).
[0054] The monitoring unit (216), the training unit (218), the selection unit (220) and the learning module (222) may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processor (202). In the examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processor (202) may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the processor (202) may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the memory (204) may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processor. In such examples, the system (108) may comprise the memory (204) storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the memory (204) may be separate but accessible to the system (108) and the processing resource. In other examples, the processor (202) may be implemented by the electronic circuitry.
[0055] In order for the system (108) to select the path for the communication within the communication network, the monitoring unit (216), the training unit (218), the selection unit (220) and the learning module (222) are communicably coupled to each other.
[0056] In an example embodiment, the communication unit (212) selects a first communication path for SEPP communication and processes requests for communication on the first communication path. In an example, the SEPP communication includes communication between the network element existing in a first PLMN and another network element existing in a second PLMN. The SEPP communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN includes at least one direct communication and at least one indirect communication. The network element (106a-106n) can be the SEPP node. The monitoring unit (216) collects one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path at periodic time intervals. The periodic time intervals are set by the user of the system (108) and a service provider. The periodic time intervals are set by the system (108). The one or more network parameters can be, for example, but not limited to latency, error events, Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) cost and transaction per second (TPS). The one or more network parameters depend on the geographical distribution of the plurality of network elements (106a-106n) within the communication network (106), and connection between one or more network elements (106a-106n).
[0057] The training unit (218) trains the learning module (222) to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds.
[0058] In an embodiment, the one or more configurable thresholds include a weight factor (w) and a bias factor (b) for each of the one or more network parameters. The SEPP maintains at least one of, a running average and a running standard deviation. Herein running implies data within a particular time window for example, last 5 minutes which is configurable and this weight factor decides how much variation in data is acceptable and the bias factor indicates how much deviation from average in data is acceptable.
[0059] Further, the communication paths are revalidated when the current network parameter value is greater than a combination of the running average, the bias factor, the weight factor and the running standard deviation. Likewise, the communication paths are revalidated when the current network parameter value is lower than, a combination of the running average, bias factor, weight factor and the running standard deviation.
[0060] Further, the selection unit (220) uses the trained learning module (222) to select a second communication path for the SEPP communication. The one or more network parameters associated with the second communication path are within the one or more configurable thresholds. For example, the selection for the communication path is explained in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6.
[0061] FIG. 3 is an example schematic representation of the system (300) of FIG. 1 in which various entities operations are explained, according to various embodiments of the present system. FIG. 3 describes the system (300) for selecting the path for communication within the communication network (106). It is to be noted that the embodiment with respect to FIG. 3 will be explained with respect to the first network element (106a) and the system (108) for the purpose of description and illustration and should nowhere be construed as limited to the scope of the present disclosure.
[0062] As mentioned earlier, the first network element (106a) includes one or more primary processors (305) communicably coupled to the one or more processors (202) of the system (108). The one or more primary processors (305) are coupled with a memory (310) storing instructions which are executed by the one or more primary processors (305). Execution of the stored instructions by the one or more primary processors (305) enables the first network element (106a). The execution of the stored instructions by the one or more primary processors (305) further enables the first network element (106a) to execute the requests in the communication network (106).
[0063] As mentioned earlier, the one or more processors (202) is configured to transmit a response content related to the request to the first network element (106a). More specifically, the one or more processors (202) of the system (108) is configured to transmit the response content from a kernel (315) to at least one of the first network element (106a). The kernel (315) is a core component serving as the primary interface between hardware components of the first network element (106a) and the system (108). The kernel (315) is configured to provide the plurality of response contents hosted on the system (108) to access resources available in the communication network (106). The resources include one of a Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory components such as Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM).
[0064] As per the illustrated embodiment, the system (108) includes the one or more processors (202), the memory (204), the input/output interface unit (206), the display (208), and the input device (210). The operations and functions of the one or more processors (202), the memory (204), the input/output interface unit (206), the display (208), and the input device (210) are already explained in FIG. 2. For the sake of brevity, we are not explaining the same operations (or repeated information) in the patent disclosure.
[0065] Further, the processor (202) includes the communication unit (212), the monitoring unit (216), the training unit (218), the selection unit (220) and the learning module (222). The operations and functions of the communication unit (212), the monitoring unit (216), the training unit (218), the selection unit (220) and the learning module (222) are already explained in FIG. 2. For the sake of brevity, we are not explaining the same operations (or repeated information) in the patent disclosure.
[0066] FIG. 4 illustrates an example block diagram of a system (400) configured for selecting optimal path for SEPPs in different Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs), according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. In today's interconnected world, not all communication paths are equal in terms of performance or quality of service. The efficiency of the network element (106a-106n) like a SEPP node depends on the requests it processes and the time taken for each request. Therefore, selecting the most optimal path for communication between the SEPP nodes in different PLMNs is a critical challenge that this invention addresses.
[0067] The inventive system (400) takes into account various network and business parameters to determine the optimal path for SEPP communication. These parameters include the latency, the error events, and the IPX cost. By considering these factors, the system (400) aims to minimize response times, reduce errors, and optimize the overall cost of communication.
[0068] The system (400) consists of multiple components interconnected to facilitate the path selection process. The primary components depicted in FIG. 4 include the SEPP model (402) communicatively coupled to the Visitor SEPP (vSEPP (404)), also having multiple IP exchange hops, such as home IPX (hIPX) 406, and visitor IPX (vIPX) 408. Multiple hIPX 406 are represented as hIPX A 406A, hIPX B 406B, and hIPX C 406C, collectively or individually referred as to hIPX 406. Multiple vIPX 408 are represented as vIPX A 408A, vIPX B 408B, and vIPX C 408C, collectively or individually referred as to vIPX 408. Additionally, multiple communication paths are illustrated between the SEPP and the vSEPP (404), involving different IPX connections.
[0069] The SEPP model (402), as the central entity in the system (400), is responsible for determining the optimal path for communication between a first PLMN and a second PLMN. Initially, when the SEPP model (402) lacks in prehistoric data, a random path is selected. As requests are processed by the SEPP model (402), they are forwarded through the identified path for communication.
[0070] Continuous monitoring of the performance and quality of the selected path is performed to detect significant deviations at the SEPP model (402). Whenever significant deviations occur, data transmission is triggered to the training unit (218). This allows the system (400) to collect real-time performance data and dynamically retrain the model for optimization.
[0071] The system (400) predicts optimal paths for all possible combinations, aligning with the rate of request reception. These predictions are essential for ensuring efficient path selection in real-time communication scenarios. The predictions is based on machine learning techniques. The machine learning techniques play a vital role in the path selection process. Initially, when the SEPP model (402) lacks prehistoric data, a random path is selected. However, as requests are processed and forwarded through the chosen path, the system (400) continuously monitors the performance and quality of the communication using the machine learning techniques. Significant deviations from desired metrics trigger data transmission to the training unit (218), enabling the system (400) to collect real-time performance data.
[0072] Periodically, at regular intervals matching the rate of request reception, the system (400) predicts the optimal paths for all possible combinations. These predictions are based on the collected performance data and take into consideration factors such as latency, error events, and IPX cost. The predictions help ensure efficient path selection in real-time communication scenarios.
[0073] The collected real-world performance data plays a crucial role in retraining the SEPP model (402). Once a sufficient amount of data is accumulated, the SEPP model (402) undergoes retraining to improve its path selection capabilities. This real-time retraining process enables the system (400) to adapt to changing network conditions and achieve maximum performance and quality.
[0074] FIG. 5 is a flow chart (500) illustrating a method for selecting the path for communication within the communication network (106), according to various embodiments of the present system.
[0075] At 502, the method includes selecting the first communication path for SEPP communication between the plurality of network elements (106a-106n). In an embodiment, the method allows the communication unit (212) to select the first communication path for SEPP communication between the plurality of network elements (106a-106n).
[0076] At 504, the method includes processing the requests for communication received from the plurality of network elements (106a-106n) on the first communication path. In an embodiment, the method allows the communication unit (212) to process the requests for communication received from the plurality of network elements (106a-106n) on the first communication path.
[0077] At 506, the method includes collecting the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path within periodic time intervals. In an embodiment, the method allows the monitoring unit (216) to collect the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path within periodic time intervals.
[0078] At 508, the method includes training the learning module to select the second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by the one or more configurable thresholds. In an embodiment, the method allows the training unit (218) to train the learning module to select the second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by the one or more configurable thresholds.
[0079] At 510, the method includes selecting the second communication path for the SEPP communication by using the trained learning module (222). In an embodiment, the method allows the selection unit (220) to select the second communication path for the SEPP communication by using the trained learning module (222).
[0080] FIG. 6 is an example flow chart (600) illustrating the method steps involved in selecting the most optimal path for communication between SEPPs in different PLMNs, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0081] The method leverages the power of machine learning to enhance the SEPP's path selection capabilities, considering various network and business parameters such as latency, error events, and IPX cost.
[0082] At step 602, initially, when the model is untrained and lacks prehistoric data, the random path is selected for communication between the SEPPs in the first PLMN and the second PLMN. At step 604, the requests are processed and forwarded through the identified path. The SEPP handles these requests, facilitating communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN.
[0083] At step 606, the performance and quality of the selected path are continuously monitored. The significant deviations from the desired metrics trigger the transmission of data to the retrain module (or training unit (218)). This data includes information on the performance and quality of the path.
[0084] At step 608, at the regular intervals matching the rate of request reception, optimal paths for all possible combinations are predicted. The machine learning techniques, incorporating network and business parameters, are utilized to make these predictions. The predicted paths represent the most efficient routes for communication between the SEPPs in the first PLMN and the second PLMN.
[0085] At step 610, when sufficient real-world performance data is collected, the model undergoes retraining for optimization. The retraining process dynamically adjusts the model using the real-time data, enhancing its path selection capabilities based on the collected performance information.
[0086] The method steps depicted in FIG. 6 effectively address the problem of selecting the most efficient path for SEPP communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN, considering direct and multiple indirect IPX communication paths. By leveraging machine learning techniques, monitoring performance, and dynamically retraining the model, the method achieves improved network performance and reliable services.
[0087] FIG. 6 further illustrates the key components of the method, including path selection, request forwarding, performance data collection, model retraining, and updating the path finder. These components work together to ensure that the SEPP system (400) adapts to changing network conditions, selects the most optimal path, and maintains high performance and quality of service.
[0088] The present invention renders following advantages:
[0089] Enhanced Path Selection: The invention leverages machine learning techniques to enable the SEPPs to find the optimal communication path. By considering various network and business parameters, including latency, error events, and IPX cost, the invention ensures that SEPPs select the most efficient path for communication. This leads to improved network performance and quality of service.
[0090] Performance Degradation Detection: The invention continuously monitors the performance and quality of the selected path. By detecting significant deviations from desired metrics, the system (108) can identify performance degradation. This early detection allows for timely intervention, and the management system can be warned before significant impacts occur. Consequently, potential service disruptions or performance issues can be proactively addressed, minimizing negative effects on users and businesses.
[0091] Real-time Retraining for Maximum Performance: The invention incorporates a dynamic retraining mechanism that utilizes real-time data. As the system (108) collects performance information during operation, the path finder model is retrained to optimize its decision-making capabilities. This real-time retraining ensures that the SEPP system (108) constantly adapts to changing network conditions, improving its performance and quality over time. By maximizing performance, the invention enhances the overall user experience and service reliability.
[0092] A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily ascertain that the illustrated embodiments and steps in description and drawings (FIGS. 1-6) are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[0093] The present invention offers multiple advantages over the prior art and the above listed are a few examples to emphasize on some of the advantageous features. The listed advantages are to be read in a non-limiting manner.

REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0094] Environment - 100
[0095] UEs– 102, 102-1-102-n
[0096] Server - 104
[0097] Communication network – 106
[0098] Network elements - 106a-106n
[0099] System – 108
[00100] Processor – 202
[00101] Memory – 204
[00102] User Interface – 206
[00103] Display – 208
[00104] Input device – 210
[00105] Communication unit - 212
[00106] Centralized Database – 214
[00107] Monitoring unit– 216
[00108] Training unit– 218
[00109] Selection unit – 220
[00110] Learning module - 222
[00111] System - 300
[00112] Primary processors -305
[00113] Memory– 310
[00114] Kernel– 315
[00115] System - 400
[00116] SEPP model – 402
[00117] vSEPP - 404
[00118] hIPX - 406
[00119] hIPX A – 406A
[00120] hIPX B – 406B
[00121] hIPX C – 406C
[00122] vIPX – 408
[00123] vIPX A - 408A
[00124] vIPX B – 408B
[00125] vIPX C - 408C
,CLAIMS:
CLAIMS:
We Claim
1. A method of selecting a path for communication within a communication network (106), the method comprising the steps of:
selecting, by one or more processors (202), a first communication path for a Securities Edge Protection Proxies (SEPP) communication between a plurality of network elements (106a-106n);
processing, by the one or more processors (202), requests for communication received from the plurality of network elements (106a-106n), on the first communication path;
collecting, by the one or more processors (202), one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path within periodic time intervals;
training, by the one or more processors (202), a learning module (222) to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds; and
selecting, by the one or more processors (202), a second communication path for the SEPP communication by using the trained learning module (222).

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication network (106) includes a plurality of public land mobile networks (PLMNs), and the SEPP communication includes communication between a network element existing in a first PLMN and another network element existing in a second PLMN, and wherein a network element is a SEPP node.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the SEPP communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN, includes at least one direct communication and at least one indirect communication.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more network parameters comprise latency, error events, Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) cost and transaction per second (TPS).

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more network parameters depend on a geographical distribution of the plurality of network elements (106a-106n ) within the communication network (106), and connection between one or more network elements (106a-106n ).

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein one or more network parameters associated with the second communication path are within the one or more configurable thresholds.

7. A system (108) of selecting a path for a communication within a communication network (106), the system (108) comprising:
a communication unit (212) configured to select a first communication path for a Securities Edge Protection Proxies (SEPP) communication and process requests for communication on the first communication path;
a monitoring unit (216) configured to collect one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path at periodic time intervals;
a training unit (218) configured to train a learning module (222) to select a second communication path, when the one or more network parameters associated with the first communication path deviate by one or more configurable thresholds; and
a selection unit (220) configured to use the trained learning module (222) to select a second communication path for the SEPP communication.

8. The system (108) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the communication network (106) includes a plurality of public land mobile networks (PLMNs), and the SEPP communication includes communication between a network element existing in a first PLMN and another network element existing in a second PLMN, and wherein a network element is a SEPP node.

9. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the SEPP communication between the first PLMN and the second PLMN, includes at least one direct communication and at least one indirect communication.

10. The system (108) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the one or more network parameters comprise latency, error events, Internetwork Packet Exchange (IPX) cost and transaction per second (TPS).

11. The system (108) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the one or more network parameters depend on a geographical distribution of a plurality of network elements (106a-106n) within the communication network (106), and connection between one or more network elements, and wherein a network element is a SEPP node.

12. The system (108) as claimed in claim 7, wherein one or more network parameters associated with the second communication path are within the one or more configurable thresholds.

13. A network element (106a), comprising:
one or more primary processors (305) communicatively coupled to one or more processors (202) of a system (108), the one or more primary processors (305) coupled with a memory (310), wherein said memory (310) stores instructions which when executed by the one or more primary processors (305) causes the network element (106a) to:
transmit, requests for communication to the one or more processers (202);
wherein the one or more processors (202) is configured to perform the steps as claimed in claim 1.