Multiaccess Edge Computing Service Instantiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The transition to decentralized core networks in 5G and 6G wireless communication systems poses challenges in managing edge computing devices, including imbalances in resource allocation and service awareness, which affect network efficiency and user experience.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a system that uses multiaccess edge computing with intelligent service awareness, enabling dynamic resource allocation and service instantiation at the edge of the network, utilizing microservices and software-defined networking to optimize network performance and user experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If processing power is moved to the edge of the network, then network efficiency and service responsiveness are improved, but resource allocation imbalance and management complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork efficiencyVSAvoidmanagement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the network into multiple edge computing nodes distributed across different locations. Each edge node independently provides processing capabilities, while a centralized controller coordinates resource allocation. This segmentation allows processing power to be distributed at the edge (improving efficiency) while the centralized controller manages the complexity of coordinating these distributed resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a centralized controller as an intermediary between the distributed edge computing nodes and the network operations. This controller receives service requests, determines optimal resource allocation, and coordinates the edge nodes accordingly. The intermediary absorbs the management complexity, allowing edge nodes to operate efficiently without direct complex coordination overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If core functionalities are decentralized to the edge, then service awareness and user experience are improved, but network governance and coordination become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice awarenessVSAvoidnetwork governance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where edge computing nodes can adaptively adjust their service capabilities based on real-time network conditions and service requirements. The centralized controller dynamically determines which core functionalities should be instantiated at which edge nodes, allowing the system to be highly adaptive to changing service needs while maintaining centralized coordination for governance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs service templates that pre-define configurations for core functionalities. Before deploying services at the edge, the centralized controller prepares these templates with necessary configurations and dependencies. This preliminary action simplifies governance by standardizing deployment procedures and ensuring proper coordination is built into the service definitions before execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of time

If microservices are deployed at distributed network devices, then service instantiation speed is improved, but resource consumption and network load increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice instantiation speedVSAvoidresource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-positions service templates and configuration data at distributed network devices before actual service instantiation is needed. When a service request arrives, the edge node can quickly instantiate the service using pre-prepared templates rather than downloading and configuring everything from scratch. This preliminary preparation reduces instantiation time while keeping the actual deployed service footprint minimal until needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements selective service instantiation where only the specific microservices needed for a particular service request are deployed at the edge node, rather than pre-deploying all possible services. The centralized controller determines which services should be instantiated based on the specific request and node capabilities. This local quality approach ensures fast instantiation of needed services while minimizing unnecessary resource consumption from deploying unused services.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS11051226B1Facilitating enablement of intelligent service aware access utilizing multiaccess edge computing in advanced networks
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 AT&T MOBILITY II LLC
  • US11051226B1 patent drawing
  • US11051226B1 patent drawing
  • US11051226B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Facilitating enablement of intelligent service aware access utilizing multiaccess edge computing advanced networks (e.g., 5G, 6G, and beyond) is provided herein. Operations of a method can comprise determining a network service being utilized by a first user equipment device has not been instantiated at a distributed network device and based on the first user equipment device approaching a service range of the distributed network device. The method also can comprise deploying the network service, as a microservice, at the distributed network device prior to the first user equipment device entering the service range of the distributed network device. Further, the method can comprise removing the network service from being deployed at the distributed network device based on a determination that the first user equipment device is no longer within the service range of the distributed network device and a second user equipment device is not utilizing the network service.