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Core network aspects 1

6.3 Functional entities

Figure 6-6 shows the functional entities of the multi-connection architecture.

Applications
ANI
Pa Multi-connection application support
function (MAS-F)

As
Multi-connection policy Ps
control FE (MPC-FE) Service control function (SCF)
Pc
Multi-connection Cm Multi-connection media Sa
coordination FE (MC-FE) function (MMF)
Pu Cr Ma
Multi-connection Access control FE (AC-FE)
registration FE (MR-FE)
Ru
Access network
Multi-connection user
profile FE (MUP-FE)
Rt Multi-connection terminal
control FE (MTC-FE)
Y.2027(12)_F6-6

Figure 6-6 – Functional entities in multi-connection architecture
6.3.1 Multi-connection terminal control functional entity (MTC-FE)

The multi-connection terminal control functional entity is an enhanced function in MUE, which supports the
MUE in exchanging multi-connection related information with the network by reference point Rt (see clause
6.4). It interacts with MR-FE to support multi-connection, such as multiple interface registration and
management, the discovery and selection of reachable access networks, etc.
The functions of the MTC- FE are as follows:
1) Identify and maintain available access information in MUE;

2) Remove invalid access network information of MUE;
3) Receive and enforce access network selection recommendation/policy in MUE by the reference
point Rt. It is recommended to provide access reference information to the MUE such as supported
authentication type, home/roaming operator lists, location and other access specific information
before initiating the connection;
4) Optionally, maintain authentication and authorization information in MUE.

6.3.2 Access control functional entity (AC-FE)
The access control functional entity is responsible for coordinating the control and user plane tunnels
established by MUEs. The AC-FE interacts with the MC-FE, MR-FE and MPC-FE in the initiation, addition,
removal, composition and decomposition of connections in each access network.

The functions of the AC-FE are as follows:
1) Interact with the MR-FE for authorization of connection establishment;
2) Interact with the MC-FE to report the access network resource availability;

3) Lawful interception;
4) IP address allocation (v4 or v6);
5) QoS enforcement (gating and bandwidth control in accordance with a QoS policy);

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