Data Plane Scalability via Control-Plane Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in scaling processing functions to support increasing numbers of end devices and traffic, particularly with the advent of 5G networks and emerging technologies like IoT and M2M communications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a data plane configured to support processing function scalability, which includes a distributed architecture separating the data plane and control plane, using forwarding elements and control elements to provide scalable data plane functions for processing functions such as charging, monitoring, and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a centralized processing architecture is used to handle network functions, then network control and management is simplified, but the system cannot scale to support increasing numbers of end devices and traffic in 5G networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the network architecture into distinct data plane elements and control plane elements. Data plane elements handle packet forwarding and processing functions (charging, monitoring, security), while control plane elements manage configuration and control. This separation enables independent scaling of data processing capabilities without proportionally increasing control complexity, as control plane elements can be shared across multiple data plane elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional organization by separating the traditional single-plane architecture into two distinct planes (data plane and control plane) that operate independently but coordinate through standardized interfaces. This dimensional change allows the system to scale horizontally by adding data plane elements while maintaining manageable control complexity through the control plane's abstracted view.
2Productivity
If processing functions are distributed across multiple elements to increase scalability, then the system can support more devices and traffic, but coordination and control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing control plane elements that can serve multiple data plane elements through standardized interfaces and protocols. A single control plane element can configure, monitor, and manage multiple data plane elements, providing multi-functionality that reduces the need for one-to-one control relationships. This universal control capability maintains ease of operation even as processing capacity scales by adding more data plane elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the data plane is separated from the control plane, then scalability and flexibility are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces standardized interfaces and communication protocols as intermediaries between data plane elements and control plane elements. These intermediaries provide well-defined interaction points that simplify the complexity of inter-plane communication. Rather than requiring complex direct relationships between all components, the standardized interfaces act as mediators that enable flexible data-plane/control-plane interactions while maintaining manageable system complexity through abstraction and normalization.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure generally discloses a data plane configured for processing function scalability. The processing functions for which scalability is supported may include charging functions, monitoring functions, security functions, or the like.