Edge QoS Enabler API for Data Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Edge Data Networks (EDNs) lack an efficient mechanism to influence Quality of Service (QoS) for data flows, as conventional solutions like EAS discovery are inappropriate for determining QoS requirements and managing QoS effectively, especially when different EASs have varying needs and IP address inconsistencies.
Innovation Solution
A dedicated Application Programming Interface (API) is provided for edge consumer nodes in an edge enabler node to receive policy and charging requests, authorize QoS-related operations, and configure core network nodes to perform requested QoS operations on data flows, enabling advanced control and monitoring of QoS.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional EAS discovery mechanisms are used to determine QoS requirements, then existing edge applications can be supported, but QoS management becomes inefficient and inaccurate due to IP address inconsistencies and inability to effectively manage varying QoS needs of different EASs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a QoS enabler entity as an intermediary between EASs and the core network. This mediator receives QoS requirements from EASs, performs authorization checks, and translates them into appropriate QoS parameters for core network enforcement, thereby resolving the inefficiency of direct EAS-discovery mechanisms while maintaining accuracy in QoS determination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the QoS management function into distinct components: QoS requirement collection at EAS, authorization verification at the QoS enabler, and QoS parameter configuration in the core network. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function, improving overall QoS management efficiency while maintaining precise requirement determination
2Adaptability or versatility
If edge consumer nodes directly interact with the 3GPP core network, then QoS control capabilities are enhanced, but network complexity and security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The QoS enabler acts as an intermediary layer between edge consumer nodes and the 3GPP core network. It provides enhanced QoS control capabilities by authorizing and translating QoS requests, while simultaneously reducing network complexity by handling QoS management tasks locally rather than requiring direct edge-to-core interactions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimensional layer (the QoS enabler) to the existing network architecture. This intermediate layer provides QoS control capabilities without requiring direct modification of the core network or edge devices, effectively adding functionality while maintaining architectural simplicity
3Measurement precision
If a dedicated QoS API is implemented at the edge enabler node, then QoS management precision and event reporting capabilities are enhanced, but the complexity of the edge enabler node increases
Solution Approach 1:
The QoS enabler node is designed with multi-functionality, combining QoS authorization, API exposure, event monitoring, and configuration management in a single entity. This universal approach enhances QoS monitoring precision and event reporting capabilities while avoiding the need for separate specialized components that would increase overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A dedicated Application Programming Interface (API) is provided. The edge consumer nodes (42) of an edge enabler node (44) in an Edge Data Network (EDN) (40) can use the API to influence the Quality of Service (QoS) for a service data flow, sponsor data traffic, and/or monitor the QoS of the data flow.