Pseudo-Slicing for Low Latency in Evolved Packet Core
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless networks face challenges in providing differentiated levels of performance for various services, such as latency and bandwidth, which are not adequately addressed by existing technologies, especially for applications like autonomous vehicles and real-time systems that require low latency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of pseudo-slicing within wireless networks, which allows for selective local breakout and execution of services at Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) locations based on physical proximity, using identifiers like APN, QoS, and profile identifiers to create pseudo-slices that leverage 4G and 5G connectivity, enabling efficient access to low latency services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If services are routed through the core network, then network coverage and reliability are improved, but latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into core network functions and edge computing functions. The EPC maintains control plane functions and routing decisions, while MEC locations provide user plane functions and service execution. This segmentation allows services to be delivered from distributed edge locations rather than requiring all traffic to traverse the core network, reducing latency while maintaining core network reliability for control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension to service delivery by distributing MEC locations geographically closer to end users. Instead of a single centralized core network path, services can be delivered from multiple distributed edge locations, adding a dimensional approach to reduce transmission distance and latency while maintaining network reliability through distributed architecture.
2Loss of time
If network resources are allocated for low latency services, then service performance is improved, but resources available for other services are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by allowing different service quality levels at different network locations. MEC locations can provide low-latency optimized resources for latency-sensitive services, while other network resources continue to serve latency-insensitive services. This localized differentiation enables specialized resource allocation without compromising overall network versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic resource allocation where the network can adaptively route services based on their latency requirements. The system dynamically selects whether to deliver services from MEC locations or through the core network based on real-time conditions and service requirements, allowing flexible resource utilization that maintains both low-latency performance and broad service coverage.
3Loss of time
If pseudo-slicing is implemented to differentiate services, then service performance differentiation is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal service delivery architecture where the same EPC and MEC infrastructure can serve multiple service types with different latency requirements. The control plane remains centralized and unchanged, while the user plane can dynamically select between core network and MEC delivery paths. This multi-functionality allows service differentiation without requiring separate specialized networks for each service type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the service gateway as an intermediary between the EPC and MEC locations. This intermediary manages the complexity of coordinating between core network functions and distributed edge functions, handling service routing decisions and resource allocation. By centralizing the coordination logic in the service gateway, the patent reduces overall network complexity while enabling sophisticated service differentiation.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller may create pseudo-slices to provide differentiated levels of service and/or execution of services at different edge locations within an Evolved Packet Core (“EPC”) network based on existing identifiers that are used to configure control plane and/or user plane function of the network. Each pseudo-slice may allow User Equipment (“UE”) to directly exchange user plane traffic with remote nodes in the core network for latency insensitive services, or with local nodes at the closer edge locations for low latency services. The different classes of service provided by the controller may be based on an Access Point Name (“APN”), Quality-of-Service Class Identifier (“QCI”), Service Provider Identifier (“SPID”), Allocation and Retention Priority (“ARP”), and/or other request or profile identifiers. The controller may also create pseudo-slices to leverage Fifth Generation (“5G”) connectivity when exchanging the user plane traffic in an EPC network that supports 5G Non-Standalone Access (“NSA”).