Edge Application Server Selection Across Redundant Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

C-IoT devices face challenges in accessing proper edge application servers (EAS) through redundant connections in edge computing networks due to distributed architectures, lacking feasible solutions for network redundancy and service continuity.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus enabling C-IoT devices to select proper EASs based on edge discovery information from redundant networks, allowing connection to a common or separate EASs, and implementing application context relocation (ACR) procedures for service continuity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If C-IoT devices use redundant connections through two networks to ensure service continuity, then reliability is improved, but the complexity of selecting and managing edge application servers increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice continuityVSAvoidEAS selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the terminal device receives edge discovery information from multiple networks and uses predetermined selection rules (or network slice information) to automatically determine the appropriate EAS. This intermediary selection process resolves the contradiction by providing automated EAS selection based on network parameters, reducing manual complexity while maintaining reliable redundant connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring selection rules and criteria for EAS selection before the actual connection is established. The terminal device uses predetermined rules (such as comparing network slice information or using selection priorities) to automatically select the appropriate EAS from multiple candidates, eliminating the need for complex real-time decision-making and reducing operational complexity while ensuring service continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If C-IoT devices connect to separate EASs for different networks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork adaptabilityVSAvoidconnection management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by enabling the terminal device to dynamically select between common EAS and separate EAS configurations based on real-time network conditions and discovery information. The device can adapt its connection strategy - sometimes using the same EAS for both networks, other times using different EASs - based on predetermined rules and current network state, providing flexibility without requiring complex manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by using network slice information and other network parameters as the basis for EAS selection. The terminal device compares parameters from different networks (such as slice identifiers or quality metrics) and selects EAS accordingly, allowing adaptability to different network conditions while simplifying the decision process through parameter-based automated selection rather than complex device logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If C-IoT devices use a common EAS for both networks, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to network-specific conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection management complexityVSAvoidnetwork-specific optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by allowing the terminal device to dynamically switch between using a common EAS and separate EASs based on network conditions. The device evaluates edge discovery information from both networks and uses predetermined selection rules to determine whether a common EAS is appropriate or if network-specific EASs should be used, providing adaptability without increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by using network discovery information and slice parameters to automatically determine the optimal EAS selection strategy. When parameters indicate similar network conditions, a common EAS is selected; when parameters indicate significant differences, separate EASs are chosen. This parameter-based approach maintains low device complexity while achieving network-specific optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20260046757A1Method and Apparatus for Edge Applications
Publication Date: 2026.02.12 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20260046757A1 patent drawing
  • US20260046757A1 patent drawing
  • US20260046757A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for edge applications is provided. The method which may be performed by a terminal device comprises: receiving first edge discovery information from a first network via a first communication module of the terminal device, and receiving second edge discovery information from a second network via a second communication module of the terminal device. The method further comprises: determining whether to select a common edge application server (EAS) or separate EASs for the first network and the second network to connect with the terminal device, based at least in part on the first edge discovery information and the second edge discovery information.