SAVi Platform Edge Service Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mobile telecommunications networks face challenges such as hierarchical and expensive architectures, proprietary devices, inefficient capacity utilization, and lack of intelligent local routing or processing, which hinder the effective provision of mobile broadband data services.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a Smart Access Vision (SAVi) platform at the network edge, allowing for the deployment of services in radio access network nodes like base stations and radio network controllers, enabling intelligent local processing and reducing backhaul traffic by hosting applications closer to users, while maintaining secure and accurate charging and lawful intercept functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If services are deployed in radio access network nodes, then user experience is enhanced by reducing latency and improving bandwidth, but backhaul communication requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser experienceVSAvoidbackhaul traffic
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the network architecture by deploying service functions (SF) directly in radio access network nodes rather than centralizing them in the core network. This segmentation allows services to be delivered locally at the edge, reducing the amount of traffic that must traverse backhaul links while maintaining enhanced user experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by adding a service deployment dimension at the radio access network edge, creating a multi-layered architecture where services can be delivered locally without requiring proportional increases in backhaul capacity.

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

2Extent of automation

If control means are implemented at the network edge, then intelligent local processing is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintelligent local processingVSAvoidnetwork architecture
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal service function architecture where standardized software components can be deployed across multiple radio access network nodes. This multi-functionality approach enables intelligent local processing through generic service function blocks that can perform various services, reducing the need for specialized complex hardware at each node.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses virtualization to create copies of service functions that can be instantiated multiple times across different radio access network nodes. These virtualized service function copies enable intelligent local processing without requiring each physical node to have full complex processing capabilities, as the processing logic is replicated as software instances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If proprietary devices are used in the network, then manufacturer-specific functionality is achieved, but adaptability and interoperability decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveinteroperabilityVSAvoidinterface standardization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces proprietary hardware-based service delivery with software-based service functions that can run on standardized hardware platforms. This substitution eliminates the need for manufacturer-specific proprietary devices, as services are delivered through virtualized software instances that can operate on any compatible hardware, thereby improving interoperability while reducing interface standardization complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP2900004B1Method and mobile telecommunications network including a SAVi platform
Publication Date: 2020.05.20 VODAFONE IP LICENSING LTD
  • EP2900004B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2900004B1 patent drawingFigure 2~5
  • EP2900004B1 patent drawingFigure 6~9

AI summary

A mobile telecommunications network includes a core network (30) operable to provide core network functions; and a radio access network having control means (1), and radio means for wireless communication with terminals (10) registered with the telecommunications network. The control means (1) includes a client function (100) and the core network (30) includes a director function, and the network includes channel controller means operable to control the establishment of a control channel between the client function (100) and the director function (110). The control channel may be implemented using GTP Echo Messages or using G-PDUs.