GMA Proxy for MAMS Path Selection in Edge Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Multiple Access Management Services (MAMS) frameworks face challenges in dynamically selecting optimal network paths across multiple access networks without impacting control plane signaling, especially in scenarios where access networks do not support MAMS functions, and struggle with spectrum efficiency and bandwidth improvement in heterogeneous radio access technologies.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a Software-Defined, Access-Agnostic, and High-Performance Generic Multi-Access (GMA) solution that integrates multiple radio access networks at the edge, using a Layer 2.5 protocol to manage multi-path operations like lossless switching and aggregation, and establishing virtual connections for cloud applications, while encapsulating control/management messages with a GMA header, allowing for dynamic traffic splitting and steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional MAMS frameworks are used to select network paths, then network path selection capability is provided, but the solution cannot operate effectively when access networks do not support MAMS functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a proxy server as an intermediary component that mediates between the client and the access network. The proxy server receives MAMS control plane messages from the client, translates them into access network-specific signaling, and forwards these signals to the access network. This intermediary approach enables MAMS functionality to operate on access networks that do not natively support MAMS, resolving the compatibility issue while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Productivity
If dynamic traffic splitting and steering are implemented, then spectrum efficiency and bandwidth improvement are achieved, but control plane signaling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control plane functionality by separating MAMS control plane messages from the user plane data traffic. Control plane signaling is handled through dedicated message formats and protocols that are independent from the actual data transmission. This segmentation allows dynamic traffic splitting and steering to be implemented without overwhelming complexity, as control signals are managed through structured, standardized message exchanges between the proxy server, client, and access network.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing RAT protocol stacks are modified to support MAMS, then network path selection is enhanced, but backward compatibility with existing networks is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The proxy server acts as a protocol translator and intermediary that bridges the gap between MAMS control plane requirements and existing RAT protocol stacks. It receives MAMS control messages from the client, translates them into access network-specific signaling protocols, and forwards these signals to the access network. This approach enhances network path selection capabilities while maintaining backward compatibility with existing networks, as no modifications to standard RAT protocol stacks are required.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure is related to Multi-Access Management Services (MAMS), which is a programmable framework that provides mechanisms for the flexible selection of network paths in a multi-access (MX) communication environment, based on an application's needs. Generic Multi-Access (GMA) data plane functions are integrated into the MAMS framework to provide a virtual network connection that acts as the MAMS anchor connection. The virtual (anchor) connection is used for sending time-sensitive MAMS control/management messages. Virtual network configuration parameters are discussed in the present disclosure, which are used for establishing and setting up the virtual (anchor) connection. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.