Mobile Devices as Edge Network Nodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current edge computing systems in telecom networks, such as 4G LTE and 5G, face limitations in expanding network services due to geographic constraints and inefficient data processing, as they rely on centralized points rather than distributed processing closer to users.

Innovation Solution

The system and method involve participating mobile devices acting as edge devices, authenticating and allocating resources to serve user devices, enabling seamless and secure network access beyond geographic limits by integrating individual mobile devices into a dynamic, scalable, and secure network, allowing for resource sharing and handoff between devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If centralized processing is used in telecom networks, then network management is simplified, but network service expansion is limited by geographic constraints

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork management complexityVSAvoidnetwork service expansion
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the centralized network architecture into distributed edge computing nodes deployed across multiple locations. Each edge node independently provides computing, storage, and networking services, eliminating the single-point bottleneck of centralized processing while enabling geographic expansion of network services.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a two-dimensional centralized network model to a three-dimensional distributed edge computing architecture by adding the spatial dimension of multiple deployment locations. This enables services to be delivered closer to users in different geographic regions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If edge computing nodes are distributed across multiple locations, then network service coverage is expanded, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork service coverageVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs edge computing nodes with universal, standardized interfaces and functions that can be deployed identically across multiple locations. Each node provides the same suite of computing, storage, and networking services, simplifying management despite geographic distribution by treating all nodes as interchangeable units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent standardizes key parameters such as interface protocols, resource allocation mechanisms, and security configurations across all edge nodes. This parameter standardization allows nodes to be managed uniformly regardless of location, reducing the complexity increase that would otherwise result from distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If mobile devices are used as edge computing nodes, then network coverage extends beyond traditional areas, but security requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork coverage flexibilityVSAvoidsecurity requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a centralized management platform that acts as an intermediary between the core network and distributed mobile edge devices. This platform handles authentication, authorization, and security policy enforcement, allowing mobile devices to participate in edge computing while maintaining centralized security control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary security measures including device authentication, capability verification, and trust establishment before mobile devices are allowed to function as edge computing nodes. This preliminary security setup enables flexible network coverage while maintaining reliable security standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11438803B2Individual mobile devices as edge network
Publication Date: 2022.09.06 AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I L P
  • US11438803B2 patent drawing
  • US11438803B2 patent drawing
  • US11438803B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system includes a participating device, an input-output interface, and a processor coupled to the input-output interface wherein the processor is further coupled to a memory, the memory having stored thereon executable instructions that when executed by the processor cause the processor to effectuate operations including authenticating the participating device as an edge device on a network, allocating a resource on the participating device to be used for serving a user device operating on the network, receiving a request for service from the user device, and causing the participating device to provide a service to the user devices using the resource from the participating device.