Multi-Access Traffic Steering APIs for MEC and 5G Coexistence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions do not address the coexistence of Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC)-based Multiple Access Management Services (MAMS) and 5G Access Traffic Switching, Steering, and Splitting (ATSSS), nor allow third-party applications to influence or be informed of multi-access traffic steering decisions in these systems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing enhanced application programming interfaces (APIs) that enable applications to influence and be informed of multi-access traffic steering decisions, while ensuring coexistence between MEC-based MAMS systems and 5G MA traffic steering mechanisms, using a programmable framework for flexible network path selection and combination based on application needs and dynamic network conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MEC-based MAMS and 5G ATSSS are deployed separately, then each system can operate independently with existing solutions, but no coexistence mechanism exists to handle multi-access traffic steering decisions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a traffic steering service as an intermediary component that mediates between MEC-based MAMS and 5G ATSSS systems. This service enables coexistence by providing a unified interface for multi-access traffic steering decisions, allowing both MEC and 5G systems to operate independently while maintaining compatibility through the intermediary layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The traffic steering service implements universal functionality by supporting multiple access technologies (WiFi, LTE, 5G) and network architectures through a single unified system. It can handle both MEC-based and 5G-based traffic steering requirements, making the system adaptable to various deployment scenarios without requiring separate specialized solutions for each access type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If third party applications are allowed to influence traffic steering decisions, then application-specific optimization is enabled, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that allow third party applications to influence traffic steering decisions by providing application-specific requirements and receiving feedback on steering decisions. The system monitors network conditions and application performance, adjusting traffic steering dynamically based on feedback loops that balance application needs with network capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The traffic steering system dynamically adapts to changing network conditions and application requirements in real-time. It can shift traffic between different access networks based on current network state, application priorities, and user preferences, enabling flexible application-specific optimization without requiring static complex control rules.
3Reliability
If dynamic network path selection is implemented, then end-user QoE is optimized, but network resource utilization becomes more complex to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The traffic steering service implements self-service mechanisms that automatically select optimal network paths based on real-time network conditions and application requirements. The system autonomously monitors network quality metrics, evaluates available access paths, and makes steering decisions without requiring manual intervention or complex centralized management, thereby optimizing QoE while simplifying resource management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes end-user QoE by dynamically changing network parameters such as routing decisions, load balancing ratios, and path selection criteria based on real-time network conditions. It adjusts these parameters automatically in response to changing network state, application priorities, and user requirements, achieving optimized performance without complex manual configuration.
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AI summary
Disclosed embodiments are related to techniques for implementing Multiple Access Management Services (MAMS), Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC), and 3GPP Fifth Generation (5G) technologies. Embodiments include enhanced application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow applications to influence multi-access (MA) traffic steering decisions, and also get informed of various MA traffic steering modes. Disclosed embodiments also include techniques to enable coexistence between MEC-based MAMS systems and 5G MA traffic steering mechanisms. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.