Edge Application Server Discovery via EASDF Control Plane
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing service discovery mechanisms for edge application servers in modern wireless communication networks, such as those defined in 3GPP TS 23.548 and TS 23.558, are limited in their ability to dynamically adapt to changing network conditions and provide rich contextual information, leading to suboptimal service discovery outcomes due to reliance on user plane-based methods like DNS-based resolution or static pre-configurations.
Innovation Solution
A control plane-based service discovery mechanism is introduced to enhance interactions between network elements, leveraging the control plane for dynamic and context-aware service discovery, enabling more efficient and reliable identification of edge application servers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If user plane-based service discovery mechanisms (DNS-based resolution or static pre-configurations) are used, then the system maintains simplicity in implementation, but the service discovery capability lacks dynamic adaptation to changing network conditions and contextual information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic service discovery by enabling UEs to send service discovery requests to network functions (NFs) in the control plane, which return service information based on current network conditions. This allows the service discovery mechanism to adapt dynamically to changing network states, resource availability, and UE requirements, replacing static pre-configuration methods with a flexible, real-time discovery process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces network functions as intermediaries between UEs and edge application servers. These NFs receive service discovery requests from UEs, query service information from service registries, and return appropriate service information to UEs. This intermediary layer enables sophisticated service discovery capabilities while abstracting the complexity from the UE side, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Reliability
If control plane-based service discovery is implemented, then dynamic adaptation and context-aware service discovery are achieved, but the complexity of network interactions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing control plane network functions and interfaces that are already part of the 5G architecture. By using established universal interfaces and procedures for service discovery, the patent achieves reliable context-aware service discovery without introducing entirely new complex interaction mechanisms. The existing control plane infrastructure is extended to handle service discovery, reducing the net increase in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control plane-based service discovery mechanism incorporates feedback loops where network functions monitor network conditions, resource availability, and service status, then use this information to provide accurate service discovery responses. This feedback mechanism enhances reliability by ensuring that service information returned to UEs reflects current network states, while the automated feedback processing minimizes the complexity burden on individual network elements.
3Productivity
If static pre-configuration methods are used for service discovery, then the implementation is straightforward, but the service discovery outcomes are suboptimal in dynamic network environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary service discovery actions where UEs can query for available services before establishing data bearers or before network conditions change. The control plane network functions prepare and cache service information in advance, allowing UEs to make informed decisions about service selection and resource allocation. This preliminary action improves service discovery efficiency by providing timely information without requiring complex real-time negotiations during service establishment.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for enhanced service discovery of edge application servers in next-generation wireless communication systems are disclosed. The apparatus includes a user equipment (UE) having a processor that enables interactions with network functions for service discovery. The system leverages edge application server discovery functions (EASDF) and control plane enhancements, such as access and mobility functions (AMF) and service orchestration and chaining functions (SOCF), for discovery and interaction with edge application servers.