RF-Constrained Protocol Stack Redesign for Low-Latency Multi-Access Edge Computing in mmWave Wireless Architectures
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31838/NJAP/08.01.04Keywords:
mmWave Communication, RF-Constrained Protocol Stack, Low-Latency Networks, Cross-Layer Optimization, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), Beamforming and Link Adaptation, Handover Management, 5G and Beyond Wireless SystemsAbstract
The mmWave (millimeter-wave) communication has become a key enabling technology of 5G and future wireless system due to its potential unprecedented data rates and super-low latency to support next-generation applications, including augmented reality (AR), autonomous systems, and remote health care. The mmWave transmissions are characterized by high path loss, blockage sensitivity and low penetration, however, it should be noted that these properties are fundamental in nature, therefore, the link conditions are not stable and handovers occur frequently. The challenges are further compounded with Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) scenarios that require deterministic, low latency and high reliability to support real time task offloading and tasks processing at the edges. In this regard, the traditional protocol stacks which were mainly developed to support sub-6 GHz mobile networks cannot address the agile and RF-limited situations of mmWave enabled edge computing systems. The study presents a new RF-aware protocol stack design to tackle these shortcomings of the existing designs that proposes an approach to integrate cross-layer real-time feedback with beamforming aware link estimation, dynamic link adaptation and predictive mobility management. A proposed stack includes software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) enabled control plane, into which it is proposed to inject the dynamic reconfiguration of network paths and edge-resource allocation as instantaneous change of the radio environment. A handover architecture gives the session a continuity through preemptive handovers that are caused by Kalman-filtered mobility traces before link degradation. Result under simulation using a 28 GHz urban scenario shows a major performance benefit such as 42 percent shorter end-to-end latency, 36 percent better session continuity as well as 41 percent shorter handover delay as compared to regular 3GPP Rel-16 conditions of protocols. These findings authenticates the viability of the recommended solution in boosting reliability and responsiveness of mmWave-MEC frameworks. The present work can open the door to the development of Rigid and flexible communication stacks that can support latency-sensitive and high-mobility applications in the emerging environment of 5G and beyond 6G edge-centered networks.
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