Towards Context-Aware Edge-Cloud Continuum Orchestration for Multi-user XR Services

TL;DR

This work addresses the problem of delivering seamless multi-user XR over a distributed Edge-Cloud Continuum by formulating a context-aware parametric model across four layers of the NFV-aligned architecture. It introduces User Engagement Level ($$UEL$$) and User Offloading Level ($$UOL$$) abstractions to capture user-centric and infrastructure-related context, and defines a multi-criteria objective $$F_j = \alpha \cdot QoS'_PL_j - \beta \cdot Cost'_PL_j - \lambda \cdot Cost'_{RO_j}$$ to guide placement, migration, and scaling. The approach is validated in a Python-based testbed, illustrating dynamic placement decisions as users join and fail to meet certain constraints, and demonstrating how context-awareness can improve QoS while managing cost and rescheduling overhead. The results suggest that context-aware parametric orchestration can enable scalable, low-latency XR services in 5G/6G environments, with potential extensions to federated and energy-aware architectures for real-world deployments.

Abstract

The rapid growth of multi-user eXtended Reality (XR) applications, spanning fields such as entertainment, education, and telemedicine, demands seamless, immersive experiences for users interacting within shared, distributed environments. Delivering such latency-sensitive experiences involves considerable challenges in orchestrating network, computing, and service resources, where existing limitations highlight the need for a structured approach to analyse and optimise these complex systems. This challenge is amplified by the need for high-performance, low-latency connectivity, where 5G and 6G networks provide essential infrastructure to meet the requirements of XR services at scale. This article addresses these challenges by developing a model that parametrises multi-user XR services across four critical layers of the standard virtualisation architecture. We formalise this model mathematically, proposing a context-aware framework that defines key parameters at each level and integrates them into a comprehensive Edge-Cloud Continuum orchestration strategy. Our contributions include a detailed analysis of the current limitations and needs in existing Edge-Cloud Continuum orchestration approaches, the formulation of a layered mathematical model, and a validation framework that demonstrates the utility and feasibility of the proposed solution.

Figures (8)

• Figure 1: Simplified version of ETSI NFV reference architecture.
• Figure 2: Relevant aspects to consider in the element layer.
• Figure 3: Relevant aspects to consider in the virtualisation infrastructure layer
• Figure 4: Relevant aspects to consider in the support layer
• Figure 5: Relevant aspects to consider in the Management and Orchestration layer.