Provisioning business functions on edge

Abstract

And a service supply function is provided. The runtime binary activation code is sent to a node edge server having a runtime binary required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function. A secure shell protocol connection with root operating system access is established to the node edge server having a runtime binary required to execute the runtime binary activation code.

Description

Background Art

[0001] 1. Field:

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to edge computing, and more particularly to provisioning and executing business functions in an edge computing environment by provisioning runtime binaries on the edge.

[0003] 2. Description of related technology:

[0004] Edge computing is a topology in a distributed computing environment where both computation and data storage are closer to where they are needed. Therefore, instead of doing all computation and data storage on the cloud, computation and data storage are done at the edge of the network. Specifically, computation and data storage are done in devices or applications that require real-time data processing and storage. In most cases, consumers require services from service providers in accordance with an agreed quality of service (e.g., a service level agreement). Communication service providers are embracing cloud and virtualization as they deliver new 5th generation and edge computing services that drive growth and improve customer experience. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one illustrative embodiment, a computer-implemented method for provisioning a business function is provided. A computer sends a runtime binary file activation code to a node edge server, which has the runtime binary file required for a set of edge devices to perform a business function. The computer establishes a secure shell protocol connection with root operating system access to the node edge server, which has the runtime binary file required to execute the runtime binary file activation code. According to other illustrative embodiments, a computer system and a computer program product for provisioning a business function are provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a pictorial representation of a computing environment in which the illustrative embodiments may be implemented;

[0007] Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of a business function provisioning system according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0008] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a business function provisioning process according to an illustrative embodiment; and

[0009] Figures 4A-4B is a flow diagram illustrating a process for provisioning business functions in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described by narrative text, flow charts, block diagrams of computer systems, and / or block diagrams of machine logic included in computer program product (CPP) embodiments. With respect to any flow chart, depending on the technology involved, the operations may be performed in an order different from the order shown in a given flow chart. For example, again depending on the technology involved, two operations shown in consecutive flow chart blocks may be performed in reverse order, as a single integrated step, simultaneously, or in a manner that at least partially overlaps in time.

[0011] Computer program product embodiments ("CPP embodiments" or "CPP") are terms used in this disclosure to describe any collection of one or more storage media (also referred to as "media") collectively included in a collection of one or more storage devices that collectively include machine-readable code corresponding to instructions and / or data for performing the computer operations specified in a given CPP claim. A "storage device" is any tangible device that can hold and store instructions for use by a computer processor. Without limitation, a computer-readable storage medium may be an electronic storage medium, a magnetic storage medium, an optical storage medium, an electromagnetic storage medium, a semiconductor storage medium, a mechanical storage medium, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Some known types of storage devices that include these media include: magnetic disks, hard disks, random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROM or flash memory), static random access memories (SRAM), compact disk read-only memories (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD), memory sticks, floppy disks, mechanical encoding devices (such as punch cards or pits / land formed in a major surface of a disk), or any suitable combination of the foregoing. Computer-readable storage media, as the term is used in this disclosure, should not be construed as storing in the form of transient signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides, light pulses transmitted through fiber optic cables, electrical signals transmitted through wires and / or other transmission media. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, data is typically moved at certain occasional points in time during normal operation of the storage device, such as during access, defragmentation, or garbage collection, but this does not make the storage device transient because the data is not transient while it is stored.

[0012] Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to the Figure 1-2 , provides a diagram of a data processing environment in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. It should be understood that Figure 1-2 This is meant to be an example only and is not intended to assert or imply any limitation with regard to the environments in which different embodiments may be implemented.Many modifications to the described environments may be made.

[0013] Figure 1A graphical representation of a computing environment in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented is shown. Computing environment 100 includes an example of an environment for executing at least some of the computer code involved in performing the method of the present invention (such as business function provisioning code 200). For example, business function provisioning code 200 provisions and executes virtualized business functions on edge devices associated with node edge servers in an edge computing environment by providing runtime binaries to edge devices via associated node edge servers. In addition to business function provisioning code blocks 200, computing environment 100 includes, for example, computer 101, wide area network (WAN) 102, end user device (EUD) 103, remote server 104, public cloud 105, and private cloud 106. In this embodiment, the computer 101 includes a processor set 110 (including a processing circuit 120 and a cache 121), a communication structure 111, a volatile memory 112, a permanent storage device 113 (including an operating system 122 and a business function provisioning code block 200, as described above), a peripheral device set 114 (including a user interface (UI) device set 123, a storage device 124, and an Internet of Things (IoT) sensor set 125), and a network module 115. The remote server 104 includes a remote database 130. The public cloud 105 includes a gateway 140, a cloud coordination module 141, a host physical machine set 142, a virtual machine set 143, and a container set 144.

[0014] Computer 101 may take the form of a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, smart phone, smart watch or other wearable computer, mainframe computer, quantum computer, or any other form of computer or mobile device now known or developed in the future that is capable of running programs, accessing a network, or querying a database such as remote database 130. As is well known in the art of computer technology, and depending on the technology, the performance of computer-implemented methods may be distributed among multiple computers and / or among multiple locations. On the other hand, in this presentation of computing environment 100, the detailed discussion focuses on a single computer, particularly computer 101, to keep the presentation as simple as possible. Computer 101 may be located in the cloud, even though it is not yet fully understood. Figure 1 1 is not shown in the cloud, on the other hand, computer 101 need not be in the cloud except to any extent that can be positively indicated.

[0015] Processor set 110 includes one or more computer processors of any type known now or to be developed in the future. Processing circuit 120 may be distributed over multiple packages, such as multiple cooperating integrated circuit chips. Processing circuit 120 may implement multiple processor threads and / or multiple processor cores. Cache 121 is a memory located in the processor chip package and is typically used for data or code that should be quickly accessed by threads or cores running on processor set 110. Cache memory is typically organized into multiple levels based on relative proximity to the processing circuit. Alternatively, some or all of the caches of the processor set may be located "off chip". In some computing environments, processor set 110 may be designed to work with qubits and perform quantum computing.

[0016] Computer-readable program instructions are typically loaded onto the computer 101 to cause the processor set 110 of the computer 101 to perform a series of operating steps to implement a computer-implemented method, so that the instructions so executed will instantiate the method specified in the flowchart and / or narrative description of the computer-implemented method included in this document (collectively referred to as the "method of the present invention"). These computer-readable program instructions are stored in various types of computer-readable storage media, such as cache 121 and other storage media discussed below. The program instructions and related data are accessed by the processor set 110 to control and direct the execution of the computer-implemented method. In the computing environment 100, at least some of the instructions for performing the method of the present invention may be stored in the business function provisioning code block 200 in the persistent storage device 113.

[0017] The communication fabric 111 is the signal conduction paths that allow the various components of the computer 101 to communicate with each other. Typically, the fabric is made up of switches and conductive paths, such as those that make up a bus, a bridge, physical input / output ports, etc. Other types of signal communication paths may be used, such as fiber optic communication paths and / or wireless communication paths.

[0018] The volatile memory 112 is any type of volatile memory now known or developed in the future. Examples include dynamic random access memory (RAM) or static RAM. Typically, the volatile memory 112 is characterized by random access, but this is not required unless affirmatively indicated. In the computer 101, the volatile memory 112 is located in a single package and is internal to the computer 101, but, alternatively or additionally, the volatile memory can be distributed in multiple packages and / or located externally relative to the computer 101.

[0019] Permanent storage 113 is any form of non-volatile storage for computers known now or developed in the future. The non-volatility of the memory means that the stored data is maintained regardless of whether power is supplied to the computer 101 and / or directly to the permanent storage 113. Permanent storage 113 can be a read-only memory (ROM), but typically at least a portion of the permanent storage allows the writing of data, the deletion of data, and the rewriting of data. Some common forms of persistent storage include disks and solid-state storage devices. Operating system 122 can take several forms, such as various known proprietary operating systems or operating systems of the open source portable operating system interface type using a kernel. The business function supply code included in box 200 typically includes at least some computer codes involved in executing the method of the present invention.

[0020] The peripheral device set 114 includes a set of peripheral devices of the computer 101. The data communication connection between the peripheral devices and other components of the computer 101 can be implemented in various ways, such as a Bluetooth connection, a near field communication (NFC) connection, a connection made by a cable (such as a universal serial bus (USB) type cable), a plug-in type connection (e.g., a secure digital (SD) card), a connection made through a local area communication network, and even a connection made through a wide area network such as the Internet. In various embodiments, the UI device set 123 may include components such as display screens, speakers, microphones, wearable devices (such as goggles and smart watches), keyboards, mice, printers, touchpads, game controllers, and tactile devices. The storage device 124 is an external storage device, such as an external hard drive, or a pluggable storage device, such as an SD card. The storage device 124 can be permanent and / or volatile. In some embodiments, the storage device 124 can take the form of a quantum computing storage device for storing data in the form of quantum bits. In embodiments where the computer 101 needs to have a large amount of storage (e.g., where the computer 101 locally stores and manages a large database), the storage may be provided by a peripheral storage device designed to store very large amounts of data, such as a storage area network (SAN) shared by multiple geographically distributed computers. The IoT sensor set 125 consists of sensors that can be used in IoT applications. For example, one sensor may be a thermometer, while another sensor may be a motion detector.

[0021] The network module 115 is a collection of computer software, hardware, and firmware that allows the computer 101 to communicate with other computers via the WAN 102. The network module 115 may include hardware such as a modem or a Wi-Fi signal transceiver, software for packetizing and / or depacketizing data transmitted over a communication network, and / or web browser software for transmitting data over the Internet. In some embodiments, the network control function and the network forwarding function of the network module 115 are performed on the same physical hardware device. In other embodiments (e.g., embodiments utilizing software defined networks (SDN)), the control function and the forwarding function of the network module 115 are performed on physically separated devices, so that the control function manages several different network hardware devices. Computer-readable program instructions for executing a computer-implemented method can typically be downloaded to the computer 101 from an external computer or an external storage device via a network adapter card or a network interface included in the network module 115.

[0022] WAN 102 is any wide area network (e.g., the Internet) capable of transmitting computer data over non-local distances by any technology now known or developed in the future for transmitting computer data. In some embodiments, WAN 102 may be replaced and / or supplemented by a local area network (LAN) designed to transmit data between devices located in a local area (e.g., a Wi-Fi network). WANs and / or LANs typically include computer hardware such as copper transmission cables, fiber optic transmission, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and edge servers.

[0023] End-user device (EUD) 103 is any computer system used and controlled by an end-user (e.g., a customer of an enterprise operating computer 101), and may take any of the forms discussed above in connection with computer 101. EUD 103 typically receives useful and usable data from the operation of computer 101. For example, in the hypothetical case where computer 101 is designed to provide recommendations to an end-user, the recommendations would typically be transmitted from network module 115 of computer 101 to EUD 103 via WAN 102. In this manner, EUD 103 may display or otherwise present the recommendations to the end-user. In some embodiments, EUD 103 may be a client device, such as a thin client, a heavy client, a mainframe computer, a desktop computer, etc.

[0024] Remote server 104 is any computer system that provides at least some data and / or functionality to computer 101. Remote server 104 may be controlled and used by the same entity that operates computer 101. Remote server 104 represents a machine that collects and stores useful and usable data for use by other computers, such as computer 101. For example, in the hypothetical case where computer 101 is designed and programmed to provide recommendations based on historical data, the historical data may be provided to computer 101 from remote database 130 of remote server 104.

[0025] The public cloud 105 is any computer system available for use by multiple entities that provides on-demand availability of computer system resources and / or other computer capabilities, particularly data storage (cloud storage) and computing capabilities, without direct active management by users. Cloud computing typically utilizes the sharing of resources to achieve consistency and economy of scale. The direct and active management of the computing resources of the public cloud 105 is performed by computer hardware and / or software of the cloud coordination module 141. The computing resources provided by the public cloud 105 are typically implemented by virtual computing environments running on various computers that constitute the host physical machine set 142, which is the universe of physical computers in and / or available for the public cloud 105. Virtual computing environments (VCEs) typically take the form of virtual machines from a virtual machine set 143 and / or containers from a container set 144. It should be understood that these VCEs can be stored as images and can be transferred between various physical machine hosts as images or after instantiation of the VCEs. Cloud orchestration module 141 manages the transfer and storage of images, deploys new instantiations of VCEs, and manages active instantiations of VCE deployments. Gateway 140 is a collection of computer software, hardware, and firmware that allows public cloud 105 to communicate over WAN 102 .

[0026] Some further explanation of a virtualized computing environment (VCE) will now be provided. A VCE can be stored as an "image". A new active instance of the VCE can be instantiated from the image. Two common types of VCEs are virtual machines and containers. Containers are VCEs that use operating system-level virtualization. This refers to an operating system feature in which the kernel allows the existence of multiple isolated user space instances, called containers. From the perspective of the programs running in them, these isolated user space instances typically behave like actual computers. Computer programs running on a normal operating system can utilize all of the resources of that computer, such as connected devices, files and folders, network shares, CPU power, and quantifiable hardware capabilities. However, programs running within a container can only use the contents of the container and the devices assigned to the container, a feature known as containerization.

[0027] The private cloud 106 is similar to the public cloud 105, except that the computing resources are only available to a single enterprise. Although the private cloud 106 is depicted as communicating with the WAN 102, in other embodiments, the private cloud can be completely disconnected from the Internet and can only be accessed through a local / private network. A hybrid cloud is a combination of multiple clouds of different types (e.g., private, community, or public cloud types), typically implemented by different vendors. Each of the multiple clouds remains an independent and discrete entity, but the larger hybrid cloud architecture is bound together by standardized or proprietary technologies that enable coordination, management, and / or data / application portability between the multiple constituent clouds. In this embodiment, the public cloud 105 and the private cloud 106 are both part of a larger hybrid cloud.

[0028] As used herein, when used with reference to a project, a "set" means one or more projects. For example, a cloud set is one or more cloud environments of different types. Similarly, "plurality" when used with reference to a project means one or more projects.

[0029] In addition, the term "at least one" when used with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one of each item in the list may be required. In other words, "at least one" refers to any combination of items, and a number of items from the list can be used, but not all items in the list are required. The item can be a specific object, thing, or category.

[0030] For example, but not limited to, "at least one of item A, item B, or item C" may include item A, item A and item B, or item B, and this example may also include item A, item B and item C, or item B and item C. Of course, any combination of these items may exist. In some illustrative examples, "at least one" may be, for example, but not limited to, two items A; one item B; and ten items C; four items B and seven items C; or other suitable combinations.

[0031] Currently, when a user requests a service that is outside the current network or within the scope of the Internet, the service cannot be directly executed. Even if the service can be executed in this case, the central host server that manages the service does not inherit the benefits of edge computing, which is driving the user's service request. As a result, this complicates the network by putting everything within the network. However, the illustrative embodiments use the framework disclosed herein to provide a hybrid experience at the edge.

[0032] The illustrative embodiment supplies and executes virtualized business functions (i.e., edge business functions) on the edge by supplying lightweight runtime binaries on the edge. The runtime binary is a runtime configuration for obtaining the resources that the edge device set needs to call the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network and execute the corresponding business functions. The edge device set that executes the business function is associated with the node edge server. The node edge server corresponds to the central host server of the edge computing environment. The illustrative embodiment utilizes the central host server to amplify the runtime binaries required on the node edge server in real time during operation, and when the edge device completes or ends the execution of the corresponding business function, the runtime binaries on the node edge server are reduced.

[0033] The node edge server sends a request for a narrowband-based network slice of a 5G network including a specified bandwidth over a specified time period (i.e., a specified start and end time). In response to receiving the request from the node edge server, the central host server performs a runtime binary file identification process to determine which runtime binary file is required by the edge device set associated with the node edge server, and migrates the required runtime binary file to the node edge server. The node edge server then sends the required runtime binary file to the edge device set so that the edge device set calls the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network to perform a business function (e.g., automatically operating a set of irrigation systems on a farm set within a specified time period and with a specified bandwidth). It should be noted that the edge device set is the only device that can access the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network supplied for this specific business function. Of course, the business function can be any type of function associated with an ultra-low latency application that automatically executes a set of tasks or actions requested by a user from the service provider of the business function via a 5G network. Applications such as smart factory applications, smart grid applications, smart agricultural applications, augmented reality-assisted surgical applications, etc. are classified as ultra-low latency applications. Ultra-low latency applications perform fast processing of data and have a low tolerance for latency (ie, network delay).

[0034] The illustrative embodiment utilizes a 5G service provider agent or market to select a geographically close 5G service provider to orchestrate business function services to meet user needs. The 5G service provider agent identifies the appropriate 5G service provider to provide a narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network to the edge device, and performs business functions based on, for example, proximity to the service request, cost, etc. The central host server performs the provisioning process so that the edge device set obtains a narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network (i.e., the precise start time, end time and bandwidth from the selected 5G service provider) to perform business functions. The selected 5G service provider ensures that the synchronization state of the edge device set at the edge is available. Based on the allowable network delay defined by, for example, a service level agreement, a contract, etc., the central host server configures the business function service at the node edge server. The illustrative embodiment is capable of generating a node edge server instance and a corresponding runtime binary file, and then removing the node edge server instance and its runtime binary file when the business function transaction is completed or ended.

[0035] The node edge server triggers a request for available services via the 5G service provider proxy. The 5G service provider proxy orchestrates the service request and enables edge provisioned services. Thus, the 5G service provider proxy establishes a proxy platform that allows service providers (e.g., business function service providers, 5G service providers, etc.) and other participants of the business function to interact.

[0036] The selected 5G service provider ensures availability at the edge of the node edge server location, as network latency may cause ultra-low latency applications to fail. This can be accomplished when the host server identifies where and how to support business function transactions and the host server is able to supply new or updated runtime binaries to the appropriate node edge server to implement the business function transaction. This is to meet the specific response required for a given business function transaction.

[0037] The illustrative embodiment ensures that the configuration of the correct size of the node edge server instance with the latest runtime binary file is available to complete the corresponding business function transaction. The illustrative embodiment realizes this point by automatically supplying the runtime binary file with the service set (e.g., resource) required for supporting the business function transaction. If such runtime binary file is available regionally or available in the area close to the business function processing point geographically, the illustrative embodiment can clone the runtime binary file or generate the runtime binary file as a new instance.

[0038] In response to the illustrative embodiment identifying the appropriate node edge server, the illustrative embodiment either migrates the required runtime binary files from the edge provisioning server to the specific node edge server, or clones the required runtime binary files from the geographically closest node edge server in the same region. The illustrative embodiment determines whether to migrate or clone the required runtime binary files based on the initial and final configuration differences that initiated the migration of the runtime binary files (i.e., the changes in the runtime binary files required for different edge devices in different locations to perform business functions).

[0039] The central host server migrates the required runtime binaries from the edge provisioning server to the node edge server only when there are no geographically adjacent node edge servers in the same region as the node edge server that have the required runtime binaries that can be cloned on the node edge server. After identifying the 5G service provider during the activation process, the host server utilizes the node coordinator component to determine whether new or updated runtime binaries are required based on the details of the received business functions. The host server also utilizes the node state manager to store status information of all runtime binaries on all node edge servers. Based on the initial and final runtime binary configuration states on the node edge server, the illustrative embodiment performs migration or cloning of the runtime binaries on the node edge server.

[0040] Therefore, the illustrative embodiments provide one or more technical solutions to overcome the technical problem of user requests to perform business function services outside the current network on the edge. Therefore, the one or more technical solutions provide technical effects and practical applications in the field of edge computing.

[0041] Reference now Figure 2 , a diagram illustrating an example of a business function provisioning system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The business function provisioning system 201 may be implemented in a system such as Figure 1 The business function provisioning system 201 is a system for provisioning and executing hardware and software components of business functions on edge devices associated with node edge servers by provisioning runtime binaries to edge devices via associated node edge servers.

[0042] In this example, business function provisioning system 201 includes business function service provider 202, third-party business function analysis service provider 204, 5G service provider 206, and 5G service provider agent 208. However, it should be noted that business function provisioning system 201 is intended only as an example and not as a limitation of the illustrative embodiments. In other words, business function provisioning system 201 may include any number of business function service providers, third-party business function analysis service providers, 5G service provider agents, and other providers and components not shown.

[0043] The business function service provider 202 provides services to customers via client devices (e.g., Figure 1 The third-party business function analysis service provider 204 provides analysis corresponding to the business functions supported by the business function service provider 202. For example, the third-party business function analysis service provider 204 can provide information about the business functions of the irrigation system to the business function service provider 202, such as air temperature, soil temperature, soil moisture, rainfall, sunshine, soil composition, vegetation growth rate, etc.

[0044] 5G service provider 206 provides a 5G network for business function service provider 202 to perform the requested business function corresponding to the ultra-low latency application. 5G service provider agent 208 selects an appropriate 5G service provider (e.g., 5G service provider 206) to provide a 5G network to perform the requested business function. In other words, 5G service provider agent 208 is an interface between business function service provider 202 and 5G service provider 206.

[0045] In this example, the business function service provider 202 includes a host server 210 and a node edge server 212. However, it should be noted that the business function service provider 202 may include any number of host servers and node edge servers. The host server 210 is a central computer that controls and coordinates operations in multiple node edge servers (e.g., node edge server 212) of an edge computing environment.

[0046] In this example, host server 210 includes host processor 214, node coordinator 216, node state manager 218, and node generator 220. However, it should be noted that host server 210 may include more components than shown, such as a persistent writer, a persistent database, etc.

[0047] The host server 210 utilizes the host processor 214 to receive an encrypted object corresponding to a service request, the service request containing details of a business function transaction requested by a user (e.g., a customer) to be performed. The host processor 214 decrypts the received encrypted object. In response to successfully decrypting the encrypted object, the host processor 214 verifies the corresponding service request. In addition, the host processor 214 can provision a narrowband-based network slice of a 5G network, such as a 5G network slice 228 corresponding to the 5G service provider 206, so that the edge device performs the corresponding business function based on the details of the business function received by the host processor 214.

[0048] In response to the host processor 214 verifying the given service request, the host processor 214 sends the node edge server activation request and the details of the business function to the node coordinator 216. The host server 210 uses the node orchestrator 216 to determine whether the edge device set needs a new or updated runtime binary file to perform the business function based on the details of the business function. In addition, the host server 210 uses the node orchestrator 216 to migrate the runtime binary file 222 to the node edge server. The node edge server sends the runtime binary file 222 to the associated edge device to call the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network so that the edge device performs their corresponding business function transactions. The runtime binary file 222 is a runtime configuration for obtaining the resources required for the edge device to call the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network and perform its corresponding business function transaction. In addition, the host server 210 uses the node state manager 218 to store the status information of all runtime binary files stored on all node edge servers in the edge computing environment. Therefore, the host server 210 knows the status of a specific runtime binary file loaded on a given node edge server at any given time.

[0049] The host server 210 uses the node generator 220 to generate a runtime binary file activation code and send it to the node edge server so that the edge device performs the business function. In addition, the node generator 220 uses a secure shell protocol with root access rights to the operating system of the node edge server to establish a network connection to execute the runtime binary activation code, which provides new functions for the node edge server. In addition, the host server 210 can use the node generator 220 to add new virtual node edge servers as needed to perform business function transactions.

[0050] The node edge server 212 is an edge computer of the edge computing environment. The node edge server 212 manages the operation of the edge device set to automatically execute a set of business functions. The edge device set automatically executes its corresponding set of business functions according to the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network to which it is associated. The edge device set uses a specific runtime binary file provided by the node edge server 212 to call the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network. The node edge server 212 uses the node supplementer 224 to request the runtime binary file required for the edge device to execute the corresponding business function.

[0051] The 5G service provider agent 208 includes a 5G service provider directory 226. The 5G service provider agent 208 uses the 5G service provider directory 226 to select an appropriate 5G service provider based on, for example, customer pricing, customer service level agreements, the geographic location of the service request, the geographic location of the edge device performing the business function transaction, etc.

[0052] The 5G service provider 206 provides the 5G network slice 228 of the 5G network to the business function service provider 202 to perform the business function. The 5G network slice 228 represents multiple narrowband-based network slices of the 5G network so that the edge devices perform their corresponding business function transactions. The narrowband-based network slice has a specified start time, end time, and bandwidth of the 5G network. The edge device set associated with the node edge server 212 has its own narrowband-based network slice to perform its corresponding business function, and only the edge device set can access the specific narrowband-based network slice.

[0053] Reference now Figure 3 , depicts a diagram illustrating an example of a business function provisioning process according to an illustrative embodiment. The business function provisioning process 300 may be performed in a business function providing system (e.g., Figure 2 The business function supply system 201 is implemented in the business function supply system 201).

[0054] In this example, the business function provisioning process 300 includes a host processor 302, a node coordinator 304, a node complementer 306, a node state manager 308, a node generator 310, and a node edge server 312. It should also be noted that the host processor 302, the node coordinator 304, the node state manager 308, and the node generator 310 are components of a central host server, e.g. Figure 2 The host server 210 in FIG. 2 includes a main processor 214, a node coordinator 216, a node state manager 218, and a node generator 220. The node complementor 306 is a component of the node edge server 312 or edge provisioning server.

[0055] At 314, the host processor 302 receives a service request from a user's client device via the network as an encrypted object having details of a business function to be performed by a set of edge devices in an edge computing environment corresponding to the host processor 302. The client device may be, for example, Figure 1 The end user device 103 in the example may be a service provider of business functions (such as Figure 2 The network may be a customer of the business function service provider 202 in the example. Figure 1 WAN 102 in.

[0056] At 316, in response to successfully decrypting the encrypted object with details of the business function to be performed by the edge device set, the host processor 302 verifies the service request. At 318, in response to verifying the service request, the host processor 302 sends a node edge server activation request together with the details of the business function to the node coordinator 304. At 320, in response to receiving the node edge server activation request and the details of the business function, the node coordinator 304 determines whether the edge device set requires a new or updated runtime binary file to perform the business function based on the details of the received business function. In response to determining that the edge device set does not require a new or updated runtime binary file (e.g., the current runtime binary file corresponding to the business function is correct and up to date) to perform the business function, the node orchestrator 304 migrates the current runtime binary file corresponding to the business function from the host server to the edge device set via the associated node edge server.

[0057] At 322, in response to determining that the set of edge devices requires new or updated runtime binaries to perform the business function, the node coordinator 304 sends an indication that the node runtime binaries are required to the node complementor 306. At 324, in response to the node complementor 306 receiving the indication that the set of edge devices requires the node runtime binaries to perform the business function, the node state manager 308 receives a request from the node complementor 306 to identify the node edge server with the required runtime binaries. It should be noted that the node state manager 308 stores the status of all runtime binaries on all node edge servers corresponding to the edge computing environment of the business function service provider.

[0058] At 326, the node state manager 308 sends the node complementer 306 an identification of a node edge server having the runtime binaries required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function. The node complementer 306 interacts with the node state manager 308 to obtain the latest information about which node edge server has the latest required runtime binaries for performing the business function. At 328, the node generator 310 receives a request from the node complementer 306 to set the node edge server to have the required runtime binaries to activate in response to the node complementer 306 receiving the identification of the node edge server. The node generator 310 is a component of the host server that generates runtime binary activation code corresponding to the required runtime binaries at the node edge server when needed (for example, as code for new infrastructure to provide new capabilities).

[0059] At 330, the node generator 310 activates the runtime binary file activation code and sends it to the node edge server 312, which is the identified node edge server with the runtime binary file required for the edge device set to perform the business function. In addition, at 332, the node generator 310 establishes a secure shell protocol connection with root operating system access to the node edge server 312, and executes the runtime binary file activation code. Alternatively, at 334, the node generator 310 can clone the required runtime binary file closest to the node edge server 312 on the node edge server 312 based on the details of the business function, instead of performing the above 330 and 332.

[0060] In response to determining that the edge device set has completed the execution of the business function, the node state manager 308 records the state of the node edge server 312 as deactivated. In addition, the node coordinator 304 deletes or removes the runtime binary file loaded on the node edge server 312 in response to the edge device set completing the execution of the business function.

[0061] For example, the following is an exemplary implementation of evaluating the likelihood of completing a business function transaction at a set of edge devices associated with a node edge server within a specified time window at a specified bandwidth.

[0062] S is a collection of virtualized services across all cloud structures, (1)

[0064] where S = {s1,s2,...,s i ,...,s k ,...,s |S|}.

[0065] P is a set of runtime binary file partitions, where P = p1, p2, ..., pj ,...,p |P|. (2)

[0066] pj|p j |Is the size of the runtime binary partition.

[0067] C I The |S|×|P| matrix represents the initial configuration,

[0068] in,

[0069]

[0070] The |S|×|P| matrix represents the final configuration,

[0071] CF among them,

[0072]

[0073] Variable definition:

[0074] The Y|S|×|P|×|S| matrix represents the runtime binary file partitions that need to be migrated

[0075] in,

[0076]

[0077] The D|S|×|P| matrix represents the runtime binary that will be mobilized at time T.

[0078] in,

[0079]

[0080] The illustrative embodiments implement activation of a business function by making changes to the desired state of the business function, which is referred to as configuration of the runtime binary. k In the initial and final configurations, the partition p j If the runtime binary is not required and no action is required, partition p should not exist j Runtime binaries from any virtualized node edge server i to k This is formulated as:

[0081]

[0082] Otherwise, according to equation (7), the illustrative embodiment obtains a complementer that sets the situation requiring replication or cloning to:

[0083]

[0084] There are some virtualized node edge servers i , which partitions p j The runtime binaries are migrated to the node edge servers k ,as follows:

[0085]

[0086] Illustrative Embodiments When the node edge server s k In the initial configuration, there is no partition p j The need for runtime binary migration is captured when the runtime binary is created, as follows:

[0087]

[0088] This activation is evidence of valid access established to meet customer needs that are outside the scope of the service catalog. The illustrative embodiment identifies the service through a 5G service provider agent invoked on a master server, and in response, the master server ensures that the virtualized business function is provisioned near the invoking third-party requestor. performance.

[0089] Reference now Figures 4A-4B , showing a flowchart of a process for providing business functions according to an illustrative embodiment. Figures 4A-4B The process shown can be used in Figure 1 Computer 101 or Figure 2 The main server 210 is implemented in the main server computer, for example, Figures 4A-4B The process shown can be found in Figure 1 The business function supply code 200 is implemented in the.

[0090] The process begins when a host server computer receives a service request as an encrypted object from a user's client device via a network, the encrypted object having details of a business function to be performed by a set of edge devices in an edge computing environment corresponding to the host server computer (step 402). In response to successfully decrypting the encrypted object having details of the business function to be performed by the set of edge devices, the host server computer verifies the service request (step 404).

[0091] The host server computer then determines, based on the details of the business function, whether the edge device set requires a new runtime binary file or one of the updated runtime binary files to perform the business function (step 406). If the host server computer determines, based on the details of the business function, that the edge device set does not require a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function, the output of step 406 is no, then the host server computer migrates the current runtime binary file corresponding to the business function to the edge device set via the associated node edge server (step 408). Thereafter, the process terminates. If the host server computer determines, based on the details of the business function, that the edge device set requires a new runtime binary file or one of the updated runtime binary files to perform the business function, the output of step 406 is yes, then the host server computer sends an indication of the need for a runtime binary file to the node complementer of the edge provisioning server (step 410).

[0092] Subsequently, in response to the node complement receiving an indication that the edge device set needs a runtime binary file to perform the business function, the host server computer receives a request from the node complement to identify a node edge server with the required runtime binary file (step 412). The host server computer stores the status of each corresponding runtime binary file loaded on each corresponding node edge server in the edge computing environment. The host server computer sends the identification of the node edge server with the runtime binary file required for the edge device set to perform the business function to the node complement (step 414).

[0093] In response to the node complementer receiving the identification of the node edge server, the host server computer receives a request from the node complementer to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file to be activated (step 416). In response to receiving the request, the host server computer generates a runtime binary file activation code corresponding to the required runtime binary file (step 418). The host server computer sends the runtime binary file activation code to the node edge server having the runtime binary file required for the edge device set to perform the business function (step 420). In addition, the host server computer establishes a secure shell protocol connection with root operating system access to the node edge server, which has the runtime binary file required to execute the runtime binary file activation code (step 422).

[0094] Subsequently, in response to determining that the edge device set has completed execution of the business function, the host server computer records the state of the node edge server as deactivated (step 424). In addition, in response to the edge device set completing execution of the business function, the host server computer deletes the required runtime binary files from the node edge server (step 426). In addition, the host server computer stores the required runtime binary files deleted from the node edge server on the host server computer (step 428). Thereafter, the process terminates.

[0095] Therefore, the illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-implemented method, computer system, and computer program product for provisioning and executing virtualized business functions on an edge computing environment by providing runtime binaries on the edge. Descriptions of various embodiments of the present invention have been given for illustrative purposes, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the described embodiments. The terms used herein are selected to best explain the principles of the embodiments, practical applications, or technical improvements existing on the market, or to enable other persons of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for provisioning a business function, the computer-implemented method comprising: The computer sends a runtime binary file activation code to a node edge server, where the node edge server has a runtime binary file required for the edge device set to perform a business function; as well as A secure shell protocol connection is established by the computer with root operating system access to the node edge server having the runtime binary required to execute the runtime binary activation code.

2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: In response to the node complementor receiving the identification of the node edge server, receiving, by the computer, a request from the node complementor to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as active; as well as In response to receiving the request to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as activated, a runtime binary file activation code corresponding to the required runtime binary file is generated by the computer.

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: receiving, by the computer, via a network from a client device of a user, a service request as an encrypted object having details of a business function to be performed by the set of edge devices in an edge computing environment corresponding to the computer; as well as The service request is authenticated by the computer in response to successfully decrypting the encrypted object having the details of the business function to be performed by the set of edge devices.

4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: Determining, by the computer based on the details of the business function, whether the set of edge devices needs one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function; In response to the computer determining, based on the details of the business function, that the set of edge devices need one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function, the computer sending, to a node complementor of an edge provisioning server, an indication that the runtime binary file is needed; In response to the node complementor receiving an indication that the runtime binary file is required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function, receiving, by the computer, a request from the node complementor to identify the node edge server having the required runtime binary file; as well as The computer sends the identification of the node edge server having the runtime binary file required by the edge device set to execute the business function to the node complementor.

5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, further comprising: In response to the computer determining, based on the details of the business function, that the edge device set does not require new runtime binaries or updated runtime binaries to execute the business function, the computer migrates the current runtime binaries corresponding to the business function to the edge device set via the associated node edge server.

6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising: In response to determining that the set of edge devices has completed executing the service function, recording, by the computer, the state of the node edge server as deactivated; In response to the edge device set completing the execution of the business function, the computer deletes the required runtime binary files from the node edge server; as well as The required runtime binary files deleted from the node edge server are stored on the computer by the computer.

7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein: The computer stores the state of each respective runtime binary file loaded on each respective node edge server in the edge computing environment corresponding to the computer.

8. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein: The required runtime binary file is a runtime configuration of resources required for the edge device set to call the narrowband-based network slice of the fifth generation 5G network and execute the business functions.

9. The computer-implemented method of claim 8, wherein: The narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network includes a specified start time, end time and bandwidth, and wherein only the set of devices can access the narrowband-based network slice of the 5G network to perform the business function.

10. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein: The business function is associated with an ultra-low latency application.

11. A computer system for supplying business functions, the computer system comprising: Communication structure; a storage device coupled to the communications structure, wherein the storage device stores program instructions; and a processor coupled to the communications structure, wherein the processor executes the program instructions to: Sending a runtime binary file activation code to a node edge server having runtime binary files required for a set of edge devices to perform a business function; and A secure shell protocol connection is established with root operating system access to the node edge server having the runtime binary required to execute the runtime binary activation code.

12. The computer system according to claim 11, wherein: The processor further executes the program instructions to: In response to the node complementor receiving the identification of the node edge server, receiving, by the computer, a request from the node complementor to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as active; as well as In response to receiving the request to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as activated, a runtime binary file activation code corresponding to the required runtime binary file is generated by the computer.

13. The computer system according to claim 11, wherein: The processor further executes the program instructions to: receiving, via a network, from a client device of a user, a service request as an encrypted object having details of a business function to be performed by the set of edge devices in an edge computing environment corresponding to the computer system; as well as Responsive to successfully decrypting the encrypted object having the details of the business function to be performed by the set of edge devices, the service request is authenticated.

14. The computer system according to claim 11, wherein: The processor further executes the program instructions to: determining, based on the details of the business function, whether the set of edge devices needs one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function; In response to determining that one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file is required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function based on the details of the business function, sending an indication that the runtime binary file is required to a node complementor of an edge provisioning server; In response to the node complementor receiving an indication that the runtime binary file is required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function, receiving a request from the node complementor to identify the node edge server having the required runtime binary file; as well as An identification of the node edge server having the runtime binary files required by the set of edge devices to perform the business function is sent to the node complementor.

15. The computer system of claim 14, wherein: The processor further executes the program instructions to: In response to determining based on the details of the business function that the set of edge devices do not need new or updated runtime binaries to execute the business function, migrating current runtime binaries corresponding to the business function to the set of edge devices via an associated node edge server.

16. A computer program product for provisioning business functions, the computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith, the program instructions being executable by a computer to cause the computer to perform the following method: The computer sends a runtime binary file activation code to a node edge server, the node edge server having a runtime binary file required for an edge device set to perform a business function; and A secure shell protocol connection is established by the computer with root operating system access to the node edge server having the runtime binary required to execute the runtime binary activation code.

17. The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising: In response to the node complementor receiving the identification of the node edge server, receiving, by the computer, a request from the node complementor to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as active; as well as In response to receiving the request to set the node edge server having the required runtime binary file as activated, a runtime binary file activation code corresponding to the required runtime binary file is generated by the computer.

18. The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising: receiving, by the computer, via a network from a client device of a user, a service request as an encrypted object having details of a business function to be performed by the set of edge devices in an edge computing environment corresponding to the computer; as well as The service request is authenticated by the computer in response to successfully decrypting the encrypted object having the details of the business function to be performed by the set of edge devices.

19. The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising: Determining, by the computer based on the details of the business function, whether the set of edge devices needs one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function; In response to the computer determining, based on the details of the business function, that the set of edge devices need one of a new runtime binary file or an updated runtime binary file to perform the business function, the computer sending, to a node complementor of an edge provisioning server, an indication that the runtime binary file is needed; In response to the node complementor receiving an indication that the runtime binary file is required for the set of edge devices to perform the business function, receiving, by the computer, a request from the node complementor to identify the node edge server having the required runtime binary file; as well as The computer sends the identification of the node edge server having the runtime binary file required by the edge device set to execute the business function to the node complementor.

20. The computer program product of claim 19, further comprising: In response to the computer determining, based on the details of the business function, that the edge device set does not require new runtime binaries or updated runtime binaries to execute the business function, the computer migrates the current runtime binaries corresponding to the business function to the edge device set via the associated node edge server.

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