Container VNF Instantiation Using QoS-Based Connection Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container network models do not consider differentiated network service performance requirements of VNFs, particularly in 5G vertical industry applications, and lack descriptions on how to generate or update container objects and configurations during instantiation and running states.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize the VNFM and CISM to read QoS attributes from VNFD and determine external connection QoS for container objects, dynamically generating or updating container network configurations to meet VNF performance requirements, using different connection channels based on QoS attributes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional container network model is used, then the network configuration is simple and flat, but it cannot meet differentiated network service performance requirements of VNFs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating differentiated network configurations for different container objects based on their specific QoS requirements. Each container object receives tailored network parameters (bandwidth, latency, packet loss rate) according to the VNF performance requirements, rather than using a uniform network configuration for all containers. This enables the container network to adapt to differentiated service performance needs while maintaining manageable complexity through automated configuration generation.
2Reliability
If container network configurations are dynamically updated to meet VNF performance requirements, then network service quality is improved, but configuration management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining QoS attributes and network configuration parameters in the VNF descriptor before container instantiation. The NFV orchestrator retrieves these pre-specified QoS requirements and uses them to generate appropriate container network configurations automatically. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex real-time configuration management during runtime, as the network quality requirements are already established in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the NFV orchestrator continuously monitors container object performance and compares it against the QoS attributes specified in the VNF descriptor. When performance deviations are detected, the system automatically adjusts container network configurations to meet the required service quality levels. This closed-loop feedback approach ensures reliable network service quality while automating configuration management to control complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If QoS attributes are read from VNFD and used to determine container object external connection QoS, then VNF performance requirements are met, but the instantiation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a standardized QoS attribute retrieval and mapping mechanism that works across different VNF types and container objects. The NFV orchestrator uses a universal process to read QoS attributes from VNF descriptors, interpret them, and translate them into container network configuration parameters. This multi-functional approach handles various VNF performance requirements through a single standardized instantiation framework, reducing overall process complexity despite the increased precision in meeting performance requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a VNF instantiation method and an apparatus. The VNF instantiation method includes: A VNFM receives a VNF instantiation request message sent by an NFVO, and determines a QoS attribute of an external connection of a container object to be used by a VNF; the VNFM sends a container object creation request message to CISM, where the request message carries the QoS attribute of the external connection of the container object; and the CISM receives the container object creation request message, reads a descriptor and/or a configuration file of the container object, creates the corresponding container object, determines a type of a connection channel between the container object and a host node based on the QoS attribute of the external connection of the container object, and establishes a connection channel of the corresponding type. According to the method in embodiments of the present invention, when the VNFM manages a VNF instance, a differentiated performance requirement of a VNF network is transferred to the CISM, to implement dynamic generation or update of a container network and quickly respond to a performance requirement change of the VNF network.