LTE EPC Deployment Model with Edge Serving Gateways
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Solution Overview
Problem
The migration to Evolved Packet Core (EPC) architecture in wireless communications faces challenges such as increased cost and management complexity, along with the need to manage the evolution of packet core networks without impacting existing data services, separate user plane and control traffic, and migrate from centralized to distributed architectures.
Innovation Solution
A phased evolution path is provided through a network architecture model that deploys Serving Gateways (S-GW) at the edge and Packet Data Network Gateways (PDN-GW) in a hierarchical manner, optimizing topological locations to reduce latency and enhance data performance, while supporting both LTE and 3G radio-access networks with minimal impact on existing services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If EPC architecture is deployed to support packet-switched traffic, then service delivery through packet connections is improved, but deployment cost and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the EPC architecture into multiple functional components (MME, S-GW, P-GW, HSS) with distinct responsibilities. This segmentation allows for modular deployment and management, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full EPC functionality for packet-switched traffic delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a phased deployment approach where EPC components are deployed in stages rather than all at once. This preliminary action strategy allows operators to migrate gradually, managing complexity by deploying only necessary components at each phase while maintaining backward compatibility with existing networks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If migration to EPC architecture is implemented, then network evolution is enabled, but impact on existing data services increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic routing and signaling mechanisms that allow the network to adaptively switch between legacy and EPC architectures based on traffic type and service requirements. This dynamic approach enables network evolution while maintaining service continuity for existing data services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components (such as border routers and gateway GPRS support nodes) that act as mediators between legacy 2G/3G networks and the new EPC architecture. These intermediaries facilitate smooth migration by translating and routing traffic appropriately, preventing disruption to existing services during the evolution process.
3Speed
If centralized architecture is migrated to distributed architecture, then network performance is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control functions from user plane functions, with control elements (MME, HSS) centralized and user plane elements (S-GW, P-GW) distributed at network edges. This segmentation enables distributed architecture for improved data transmission speed while maintaining centralized control for policy management, balancing performance and control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by deploying user plane gateway functions at local network edges closer to users, enabling faster data transmission. Meanwhile, control plane functions maintain centralized architecture with standardized protocols, ensuring that control complexity remains manageable despite the distributed user plane infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A new deployment model enables a seamless migration to LTE (long term evolution)/EPC (Evolved packet core). In addition, an intelligent edge gateway (IEG) supports future distributed architecture and a converged network for service providers. Specifically, the model supports existing data services (e.g. UMTS) and the delivery of LTE services does not affect the existing data services. Moreover, a distributed architecture is employed, such that, local traffic is optimally routed at the edge and backhaul is minimized. The system can also provide support for enhanced Femto cell 3GPP access to a home network.