Edge Network Function Distribution for Low-Latency 5G Messaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G network architectures face challenges in efficiently distributing network functions to edge data networks, leading to increased latency and suboptimal message delivery efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An edge-assisted distributed network function solution that facilitates the distribution of network functions from the 5G Core to edge data networks, utilizing an Edge Network Repository Function (ENRF) for discovery and management, and an edge-assisted message service (MSGin5G) to enhance message delivery efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network functions are centralized in 5G Core, then network security and control are improved, but latency and access efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions by separating them into centralized 5G Core functions and distributed Edge Network functions. The ENRF segments the service discovery function from other NFs, while edge-assisted distributed network functions segment specific services (like message services) from the core, allowing security-critical functions to remain centralized while latency-sensitive functions are distributed to edge locations closer to UEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension for network function deployment by creating edge data networks at the network edge, adjacent to UEs, while maintaining the centralized 5G Core. This dimensional expansion allows the system to simultaneously achieve centralized security control and distributed low-latency access through the ENRF and edge-assisted distributed network functions.
2Productivity
If network functions are distributed to edge data networks, then message delivery efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ENRF acts as an intermediary between UEs and edge data networks, handling service discovery and NF location information. The edge enabler server serves as an intermediary that manages UE context and triggers, coordinating between edge network functions and the 5G Core. These intermediaries simplify the system by centralizing discovery and management functions rather than distributing full complexity to each edge node.
Solution Approach 2:
The ENRF performs preliminary service discovery and NF location information provision before actual message delivery occurs. Edge enabler servers perform preliminary UE context collection and trigger management. This preliminary action at the edge reduces the complexity of real-time message routing by pre-establishing service locations and UE contexts.
3Productivity
If edge enabler server collects UE context and triggers, then service efficiency is improved, but information security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The edge enabler server acts as a trusted intermediary between UEs and the 5G Core, collecting and managing UE context and triggers. It provides security by validating UE identities and controlling access to context information, while enabling efficient service delivery by maintaining localized UE state at the edge without exposing core network security.
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods that improve the use of network functions on edge data networks are disclosed. A mechanism that supports edge-assisted UE context and trigger collection is described herein, where a UE can actively send its context information and/or any trigger (e.g. a request for a network function/service to be deployed in edge data networks, etc.) to an edge enabler server, which processes the received context and triggers from its UEs. The edge enabler server may also forward UE context and triggers to 5G core network (5GC) upon receiving a solicitation request from the 5GC, or if the 5GC has already made a subscription for getting notification on UE context and triggers. A network repository function is provided as a new network function collect, store, and manage edge data network information.