Dynamic QoS Traffic Steering in Multi-Access Edge Computing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-access edge computing (MEC) environments do not optimize network resource utilization as they do not steer user equipment (UE) and MEC traffic based on detected quality of service (QoS) or latency, leading to suboptimal performance.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network exposure function (NEF) that monitors QoS of MEC data sessions and reroutes them to a closer MEC platform when latency falls below a predetermined threshold, utilizing a database of MEC application instances to ensure SLA requirements are met, and continuously monitors QoS to adjust routing as necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If MEC traffic is routed without QoS-based steering, then device complexity is reduced, but network resource utilization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network exposure function continuously monitors QoS parameters (latency, throughput) of MEC data sessions and uses this feedback to dynamically steer traffic to appropriate MEC platforms. This closed-loop control enables optimal network resource utilization without requiring complex proactive routing decisions at each node.
Solution Approach 2:
The network exposure function acts as an intermediary between the core network and MEC platforms, centralizing the QoS monitoring and traffic steering logic. This mediator approach simplifies the overall system architecture by consolidating decision-making functions, avoiding the need for complex QoS handling at each network node while still achieving optimal resource utilization.
2Productivity
If QoS monitoring and dynamic routing is implemented, then network resource utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network exposure function is designed as a multi-functional entity that performs both QoS monitoring and traffic steering operations. By consolidating these functions in a single component, the patent avoids duplicating complex logic across multiple network elements, thereby improving network resource utilization while limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
3Speed
If traffic is routed to closer MEC platforms based on latency, then speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time QoS feedback (particularly latency measurements) to dynamically determine the optimal MEC platform for each data session. This feedback-driven approach enables the network to automatically route traffic to the closest available MEC platform, improving speed while keeping routing decision complexity manageable through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The network exposure function autonomously performs QoS monitoring and makes routing decisions without requiring manual intervention or complex coordination between multiple network elements. This self-service capability simplifies the system architecture while enabling latency-optimized routing to appropriate MEC platforms.
Data Source
AI summary
A quality of service traffic steering approach for multi-access edge computing (MEC) environments is disclosed. In an embodiment, a network exposure function (NEF) or similar device (e.g., MEC controller or orchestrator) monitors a quality of service (QoS) of a data session between a user equipment (UE) and an application. The NEF then can determine when the QoS of the data session does not meet a requested service level agreement (SLA). When the SLA is not met, the NEF identifies a MEC host that meets the SLA using a database of MEC applications. Based on the identified MEC host, the NEF re-routes the data session to the MEC host.