Edge Offloading in Converged 4G/5G Core Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In converged 4G/5G networks, Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) edge offloading is not available for user equipment (UE) operating via the LTE RAN, leading to deficiencies in network operations due to limited 5G coverage compared to 4G.
Innovation Solution
A method for establishing local traffic offloading in a mobile network with a converged core architecture, involving a control plane function that inserts a first local user plane function and a second local user plane function with an uplink classifier at an edge location, updating bearers to reduce latency and enhance network efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a converged 4G/5G network architecture is implemented, then network coverage and compatibility are improved, but edge offloading capability is lost for LTE RAN users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the user plane function into multiple distributed instances (UPF1, UPF2, etc.) located at different edge sites, allowing LTE RAN users to be routed to appropriate edge offloading points while maintaining 5G core network architecture. This segmentation enables simultaneous support for both centralized convergence and distributed edge services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (edge offloading function) that sits between the LTE RAN and the converged core network, enabling traffic redirection to edge data networks without disrupting the unified 4G/5G core architecture. This intermediary restores edge offloading capability while preserving network convergence.
2Device complexity
If traffic is routed through central user plane functions, then network management is simplified, but latency increases for edge applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by placing user plane functions at multiple geographic locations (central and edge sites) rather than concentrating all traffic through a single central point. This allows traffic to be routed locally to the nearest UPF instance, reducing transmission latency while maintaining manageable network architecture through standardized interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If 5G core architecture is deployed with limited coverage, then advanced services are enabled, but service availability decreases compared to 4G
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal architecture where the 5G core network functions serve multiple purposes: they provide advanced 5G services where available while simultaneously supporting traditional 4G LTE services through the same converged core. The multi-functional UPF instances can handle both 5G and 4G traffic, ensuring broad service availability across different radio access technologies.
Data Source
AI summary
A control plane (CP) function for session management performs a procedure for establishing local traffic offloading for a user equipment (UE) in a mobile network having an Evolved Packet Core (EPC) and Fifth Generation (5G) converged core that supports communications via a Long-Term Evolution (LTE) radio access network (RAN) and a Fifth Generation (5G) RAN. Initially, a connection is established for the UE via the LTE RAN that includes a first bearer between the LTE RAN and a central serving gateway-user plane (SGW-U) at a central location, and a second bearer between the central SGW-U and a central packet gateway-user plane (PGW-U) at the central location. The CP function inserts a local SGW-U at an edge location and subsequently inserts a local intermediate user plane function (I-UPF) with an uplink classifier (UL-CL) at the edge location for enabling edge offload of traffic from the LTE RAN.