Edge Network Exposure Function for Low-Latency RAN–MEC Capability Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G network architectures face challenges in efficiently exposing network capabilities to mobile edge computing platforms due to domain isolation between radio access networks and core networks, leading to increased delay and bandwidth usage.
Innovation Solution
Introduce an Edge Network Exposure Function (eNEF) on the RAN side with protocol reference point interfaces to directly interact with both the RAN and core network, enabling direct exposure of network capabilities to MEC platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If domain isolation between radio access network and core network is maintained, then network security and architecture stability are improved, but network capability exposure efficiency deteriorates and delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network exposure function by introducing an edge network exposure function (eNEF) at the radio access network edge, separate from the core network NEF. This segmentation allows RAN capabilities to be exposed directly to MEC platforms without requiring full core network involvement, thus maintaining security while improving exposure efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The eNEF acts as an intermediary component between the RAN and MEC platforms. It provides protocol reference point interfaces that enable direct interaction and capability exposure between RAN functions and edge computing platforms, eliminating the need for complex core network routing while preserving network security through controlled interface definitions.
2Reliability
If traditional core network-based capability exposure is used, then network security control is improved, but bandwidth usage increases and delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network capability exposure function from the core network and places it at the RAN edge through the eNEF. This extraction allows capability information to be obtained directly at the edge without traversing the entire core network, significantly reducing bandwidth consumption while maintaining security through localized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by deploying network exposure functions at multiple levels (RAN edge and core network) simultaneously. The eNEF at the RAN edge handles capability exposure for local services, while the core NEF handles centralized functions, creating a hierarchical exposure architecture that optimizes both security and resource usage.
3Loss of time
If edge computing is deployed closer to UE, then service latency is reduced and transmission bandwidth is saved, but network capability exposure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The eNEF is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a protocol translation interface between RAN and MEC platforms, and as a capability exposure server. This universal component handles multiple functions including protocol reference point interfaces, capability information gathering, and service exposure, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite edge deployment.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed in the present application are a method for opening edge network capability, a device, an apparatus, and a storage medium. The method comprises: receiving a network capability service request issued by a mobile edge computing platform (S1); determining, according to the network capability service request, a provider of the network capability service requested by the mobile edge computing platform (S2); and if it is determined that the provider of the network capability service is a core network, providing the network capability service of the core network to the mobile edge computing platform (S3).