Edge Network Exposure Function for MEC Interoperability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-access edge computing (MEC) networks face challenges such as limited interoperability between different MEC platforms and macro networks, security and privacy risks due to exposure of network information, and limited API support, which lead to latency and coordination issues when handling application services across various networks.
Innovation Solution
The edge network exposure function service provides a centralized orchestration of network exposure functions, including interfaces for communication between radio access networks and MEC networks, supporting APIs for MEC platform enablement, bandwidth control, and user equipment information, while also facilitating communication with core network devices to manage traffic steering, mobility, and administrative services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network information is exposed to MEC network for service provisioning, then service provisioning capability is improved, but security and privacy risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an edge network exposure function as an intermediary component that sits between the radio access network and MEC network. This intermediary selectively exposes only necessary network information to the MEC network through controlled interfaces, enabling service provisioning while preventing unauthorized access to sensitive network information, thus resolving the security-risk contradiction.
2Loss of time
If core network capabilities are situated at network edge for reduced latency, then response time is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions by introducing edge network exposure functions at strategic edge locations, separating them from the core network while maintaining coordinated operation. This segmentation brings computational capabilities closer to users to reduce latency, while the modular design manages complexity through standardized interfaces and distributed architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If centralized orchestration is implemented for network exposure functions, then interoperability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a centralized orchestration system that provides universal, standardized interfaces for managing network exposure functions across multiple MEC networks and vendors. This universal orchestration layer handles diverse interoperability requirements through standardized protocols, reducing the need for custom integrations while managing complexity through abstraction and reuse of common functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a device, and a non-transitory storage medium are described in which a edge network exposure function service is provided. An edge network exposure function device may provide the edge network exposure function service. The edge network exposure function service may communicate with a radio access network, a mobile edge computing network, and a main edge network exposure function device to provide radio access network, end device, and control information. The edge network exposure function device may also facilitate handovers of an end device between mobile edge computing networks. The edge network exposure function device may be situated at the network edge and the main network exposure function device may be situated in a core network.