Application of Cybertwin for Offloading in Mobile Multiaccess Edge Computing for 6G Networks

Abstract

Multiaccess edge computing is an essential technology that academia and industry have recognized as fundamental for the future of the Internet of Things. Current research on the subject utilizes virtual machines as the intermediary between end devices and cloud servers. However, recently a new framework was proposed that utilizes Cybertwins instead of virtual machines for the same function. Such framework comes with a myriad of advantages but, most importantly, in this case, it includes a control plane capable of enabling cooperation between the Cybertwins. In this article, we present a mathematical model of the total service delay of a Cybertwin-based multiaccess edge computing system that includes user mobility, migration of virtual servers, multiple physical servers at different network tiers, fronthaul and backhaul communication, processing, and content request/caching. We also propose algorithms for guiding the operation of Cybertwins and the control plane in a multiaccess edge computing scenario. Finally, a performance analysis between Cybertwin and a virtual machine-based scheme is offered. Simulations show that Cybertwin brings significant improvement for the assumed scenario in the form of a faster overall service due to the higher cooperation. The models and simulations here were designed with the characteristics of future networks, beyond the current 5G, in mind, making them likely relevant for future networks, where multiaccess edge computing and the Internet of Things should play an even more important role.