CPS: A Multipath Scheduling Algorithm for Low-Latency Applications in 5G Edge Networks

VR applications that require extremely low latency and high image quality are widely used in online games and other 5G scenarios, becoming a key research field in recent years. However, the limited bandwidth in 5G edge networks fails to meet the peak rate requirements for multiple VR flows. MPTCP is suitable for 5G edge networks, supporting the simultaneous use of multiple networks on mobile devices. Nevertheless, accurately scheduling VR data blocks to different sub flows to satisfy their low latency requirements is challenging due to their micro-burst characteristic. In this paper, we propose a novel MPTCP scheduler for cloud VR applications in 5G edge networks, called the Cross-Layer Information-based One-Way Delay Predictive Scheduler (CPS). CPS accurately predicts one-way delay by incorporating cross-layer information from both the application and edge wireless sides, and adaptively schedules VR data blocks to the optimal subflow. Experimental results show that CPS outperforms existing strategies, supporting 125% more users for VR applications in the typical scenario. Additionally, CPS maintains completion times for 99% of cloud VR packets below 7 ms. CPS successfully meets the quality of experience needs of more users, providing a promising solution for large-scale deployment of cloud VR services in 5G edge networks.