Virtual Machine Edge Node Configuration for Service Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autonomous edge computing systems are limited by their reliance on dedicated edge devices, restricting their reach and flexibility, as they cannot utilize traditionally non-edge devices for edge computing services.
Innovation Solution
The system enables any processor-based device to operate as an edge node by dynamically configuring user devices to join an edge cluster through a VM edge application, allowing them to reserve computing resources and provide edge services to endpoint devices, with a VM management system assigning and managing these resources based on demand and reputation scores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated edge devices are used to provide edge computing services, then service reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables any processor-based device to function as an edge node by installing a virtual machine, transforming dedicated edge devices into universal computing platforms. This allows smartphones, tablets, and other consumer devices to provide edge computing services while maintaining reliability through virtualization infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses virtual machine images that can be copied and deployed across different physical devices. Instead of requiring unique dedicated hardware for each edge service, the same virtual machine image can be instantiated on multiple different processor-based devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining service reliability.
2Reliability
If dedicated edge devices are deployed, then service stability is improved, but adaptability to different locations and scenarios decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic edge node selection where the system can adaptively choose which devices to activate as edge nodes based on real-time conditions. The virtual machine manager can dynamically allocate resources, activate or deactivate edge nodes, and reconfigure the edge computing network according to changing scenarios and locations.
Solution Approach 2:
By enabling any processor-based device to serve as an edge node, the system gains universal adaptability across different locations and scenarios. The same virtual machine infrastructure can operate on diverse hardware platforms, allowing the edge computing service to adapt to various environmental conditions without requiring location-specific dedicated devices.
3Productivity
If more devices are made available as edge nodes, then resource utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses standardized virtual machine images that can be copied and deployed across multiple devices. This standardized approach simplifies device complexity by providing a uniform interface and configuration, while enabling extensive resource utilization through the deployment of identical virtual machines across numerous different processor-based devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual machine manager acts as an intermediary between the diverse physical devices and the edge computing services. This intermediary layer abstracts the hardware differences, allowing multiple devices to contribute resources without increasing the complexity of the services they provide. The manager handles resource allocation, communication, and coordination, simplifying the overall system architecture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If user devices are configured to operate as edge nodes, then flexibility is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where the virtual machine manager automatically handles device registration, resource allocation, and service deployment without requiring manual user configuration. Users can simply install the virtual machine on their devices, and the system autonomously manages the edge node operation, maintaining ease of operation while providing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual machine manager serves as an intermediary that handles the operational complexity between users and the edge computing infrastructure. It automatically manages device registration, resource allocation, and service deployment, shielding users from technical complexities while enabling them to easily utilize their devices as edge nodes with minimal effort.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for providing a virtual machine (“VM”) as a service. A user device can install a VM to enable itself as an edge node. The user device can then and use a portion of its computing resources to provide the service to the endpoint device by running the VM. In an example, an edge node can directly receive a request for a service from an endpoint device. The edge node can determine that it needs assistance from another device to jointly provide the service. Then another user device which is available to operate as an edge node can join the edge team.