Edge Node Application Management via Context-Aware Virtualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for managing data and application services at the edge of a network require static instances that need replacement when new capabilities are available, often requiring human intervention and are manufacturer-specific, and do not adapt to contextual changes such as location-based services.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for dynamically executing and managing applications on edge nodes by identifying the operating context, including spatiotemporal context, to provide services to mobile devices, which allows for lifecycle management, selection of appropriate edge nodes, and configuration of services based on anticipated user contexts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If static instances of data processing and application servicing capabilities are deployed at edge network nodes, then response times are improved and backhaul congestion is decreased, but the system requires human intervention for installation and replacement, and cannot adapt to contextual changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static capability instances into dynamic virtualized applications that can be automatically provisioned, deployed, and managed at edge network nodes. The virtualization framework enables capabilities to be dynamically instantiated and relocated based on contextual needs without manual intervention, while maintaining the performance benefits of edge deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service automation where the edge management platform automatically discovers contextual changes, selects appropriate application instances, and deploys them to edge nodes without human intervention. The system self-manages the lifecycle of virtualized applications including installation, configuration, and replacement based on contextual inputs.
2Speed
If static instances of data processing and application servicing capabilities are deployed at edge network nodes, then response times are improved and backhaul congestion is decreased, but the system cannot adapt to contextual changes such as location-based services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic contextual adaptation by enabling the edge management platform to receive contextual inputs (such as location data, user preferences, and environmental conditions) and automatically adjust which application instances are deployed at which edge nodes. This allows the system to adapt to changing contexts while maintaining fast response times through edge proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by dynamically selecting and deploying different application instances based on contextual parameters. The virtualization framework allows the same physical edge node to host different application instances with different configurations based on contextual needs, enabling versatility without sacrificing performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If operator owns equipment from various manufacturers with manufacturer-specific implementation methods, then device compatibility is achieved, but the complexity of installing and managing capabilities increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal virtualization framework that abstracts the underlying hardware differences between equipment from various manufacturers. The framework provides a standardized interface for deploying and managing application instances across diverse edge nodes, enabling multi-manufacturer equipment support while simplifying installation and management through a unified approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The edge management platform acts as an intermediary layer between the diverse manufacturer-specific equipment and the application instances. This intermediary virtualization layer translates universal deployment instructions into manufacturer-specific configurations, reducing complexity by shielding operators from hardware heterogeneity while maintaining broad equipment compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and computer program for operating and managing data and application services at an edge of a network. An example method includes executing an application on an edge node. The edge node provides services to mobile device end users on the edge of a network. The method may include identifying an operating context for executing an application on an edge node. A management step manages the operation and lifecycle of the application on the edge node in response to the identified operating context.