Cross-Operator EAS Discovery for Edge QoS Assurance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack an effective method for discovering Edge Application Servers (EAS) across different operators, hindering cross-operator Quality of Service (QoS) guarantees.
Innovation Solution
An EAS search method and apparatus that enables information exchange between network functions across different PLMNs, allowing for the discovery of EAS and ensuring cross-operator QoS by deploying specific functions on each PLMN, including EAS Discovery Function (EASDF), Session Management Function (SMF), Security Edge Protection Proxies (SEPP), and Network Exposure Function (NEF), using information such as terminal IP addresses, DNS queries, and N6 transmission requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If EAS search is limited to within a single operator network, then the search process is simple and fast, but cross-operator EAS discovery is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces NEF (Network Exposure Function) and SEPP (Security Edge Protection Proxies) as intermediary components that enable EAS discovery across operator networks. NEF exposes network capabilities to external operators while SEPP provides security protection at the edge, allowing controlled information exchange without direct network integration between operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The EAS search system is segmented into operator-specific network functions (SMF, EASDF) and shared infrastructure functions (NEF, SEPP, NRF). Each operator maintains independent network functions while using shared functions for cross-operator communication, enabling modular expansion without full system integration.
2Reliability
If EAS search is performed across multiple operators, then global QoS guarantee is enabled, but information exchange and selection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the NRF (Network Repository Function) provides feedback about available EAS across operators to the SMF (Session Management Function). The SMF uses this feedback information to select appropriate EAS and configure PDR (Packet Detection Rules) and FAR (Forwarding Action Rules) for QoS guarantee.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters such as PDR (Packet Detection Rules), FAR (Forwarding Action Rules), and QER (QoS Enforcement Rules) to enable QoS guarantee across operators. These parameters are dynamically configured based on the selected EAS and terminal requirements, allowing flexible QoS control.
3Productivity
If comprehensive EAS search options are provided, then service quality and speed are improved, but the search process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring EAS information in the NRF (Network Repository Function) before actual search requests. Operator deployment information, including EAS addresses and capabilities, is prepared in advance, allowing fast search and selection during actual service requests without complex real-time analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed in the present application are an edge application server (EAS) search method and apparatus, a first function, a third function, a seventh function, a second function, an eleventh function, and a storage medium. The method comprises: a first function sending first information and/or second information to a second function, so as to perform an EAS search.