Application Data Repository for Mobile Edge Computing Request Delivery
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), there is a challenge in delivering Application Function (AF) requests to Policy Control Functions (PCFs) efficiently, especially when the identity of the PCF is unknown at the time of request generation, and existing solutions lack detailed definitions for storage mediums and operations.
Innovation Solution
A network function is configured as a data repository to store AF requests and associated data, transmitting notifications to subscribed PCFs, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of AF requests across multiple PCFs in the network, including those in Visited Public Land Mobile Networks (VPLMNs).
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If AF requests are stored in a data repository for later retrieval by PCFs, then the reliability of request delivery is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional storage and notification infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by storing AF requests in a data repository before PCFs are identified or become available. The system proactively buffers requests with subscriber information (PCF identifiers) so that when PCFs are later identified through network slicing or other mechanisms, the requests are already prepared for delivery. This resolves the contradiction by ensuring reliable delivery without requiring complex real-time matching infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a data repository as an intermediary component between AFs and PCFs. This mediator stores requests temporarily and manages the delivery process, including handling cases where PCFs are not yet identified. The intermediary absorbs the complexity of request management, allowing the overall system to achieve reliable delivery while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If AF requests are delivered to multiple PCFs in VPLMN and HPLMN, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the loss of time increases due to additional notification and retrieval steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing AF requests in the data repository with associated subscriber information identifying multiple potential PCFs. When requests need to be delivered, the system can quickly retrieve and forward to multiple PCFs simultaneously rather than sequentially searching for appropriate recipients. This reduces the time penalty of multi-PCF delivery while maintaining adaptability to different network configurations including VPLMN and HPLMN scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by implementing an asynchronous notification mechanism where PCFs are notified as soon as they become available or identifiable. The data repository continuously monitors for PCF availability and immediately triggers delivery when conditions are met, minimizing idle time. This allows the system to maintain adaptability across multiple PCFs while reducing latency through continuous monitoring and immediate action rather than periodic or batch processing.
3Ease of operation
If detailed storage operations are defined for AF requests, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional operational procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the data repository to automatically manage AF request storage and retrieval operations. The system autonomously handles tasks such as storing requests with subscriber information, managing PCF identification, triggering notifications, and coordinating multi-PCF delivery without requiring manual intervention or complex operational procedures. This automation provides ease of operation while containing device complexity within the repository itself rather than propagating it throughout the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and system for supporting Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) in a network such as a 5G communication network. Application Function (AF) request data is received from an AF operating in the network in support of MEC, stored in memory, and transmitted from the memory to one or more Policy Control Functions (PCFs) operating in the network. Subscribing PCFs may be notified of the receipt and storage of the data and request retrieval of the data. The data may be stored and handled by a function referred to as the Application Data Repository, or by another data repository. The operations may be performed by a network function such as but not limited to an Application Data Repository function. The function can store the AF request data and notify the PCFs. The function can handle AF requests associated with roaming UEs.