Relocating Packet Processing Functions in Anchorless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3GPP EPC architecture leads to sub-optimal routing of data packets due to anchored IP address management, resulting in increased latency and inefficient packet routing, especially when user equipment (UE) mobility occurs, as all traffic must pass through a single Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW), which can be far from the UE.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an anchorless architecture that allows relocation of packet processing functions associated with a device across the communication network, enabling dynamic re-routing of data packets by updating switching elements in function chains to optimize routing paths based on the UE's location, even for functions that typically act as anchors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If anchored IP address management is used in current 3GPP EPC architecture, then network control and management is simplified, but packet routing becomes sub-optimal and latency increases when user equipment mobility occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic relocation of packet processing functions from static anchored positions to mobile positions that follow user equipment. The network function can dynamically change its location based on UE mobility, transforming the static anchored architecture into a dynamic system that adapts to user movement, thereby reducing routing latency while maintaining manageable control through the network controller.
2Device complexity
If all traffic passes through a single Packet Data Network Gateway (PGW), then network architecture is simplified and control is centralized, but routing efficiency deteriorates when PGW is far from user equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the packet processing function into multiple components that can be independently relocated. Instead of moving the entire PGW, only the specific packet processing functions associated with a UE are relocated to follow the user, while the PGW structure remains intact. This segmentation allows improved routing efficiency without requiring complete architectural restructuring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network controller as an intermediary that manages the relocation of packet processing functions. The controller receives location information from the base station and coordinates the movement of network functions, acting as a mediator between the simplified centralized architecture and the need for distributed efficient routing.
3Productivity
If packet processing functions are relocated to follow user equipment, then routing optimization is achieved, but network function management and coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station provides location information about user equipment to the network controller, which then determines whether relocation is needed. This feedback loop enables automated decision-making for function relocation, reducing the complexity of manual coordination while achieving routing optimization based on real-time user location data.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method in an arrangement of a communication network, controlling a function for processing data packets of a flow associated with a device. The method comprises determining (610) to relocate the function for processing the data packets from a source instance to a target instance for the device, controlling (620) transmission of an instruction to the source instance to relocate the function for processing the data packets to the target instance, and controlling (630) an update of a switching element in a chain of functions for processing the data packets of the flow comprising said function. The switching element affects the routing of the data packets of the flow in the chain. The switching element is updated with information related to the relocated function. The invention also relates to a method performed by the source instance and to the arrangement and the source instance.