Distributed NF Configuration Routing for Local KPI-Based Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless networks face inefficiencies and single points of failure in propagating configuration updates to distributed network functions (NFs), necessitating a more robust and decentralized framework for configuration management.
Innovation Solution
A decentralized approach is implemented where network functions (NFs) are grouped and configuration updates are routed through established paths based on factors like latency, redundancy, and geography, allowing NFs to apply updates at optimal times according to predefined policies, reducing reliance on centralized systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized system is used to propagate configuration updates to distributed network functions, then configuration management is simplified, but the system creates a single point of failure and increases computational burden on the centralized system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized configuration management system into distributed configuration update propagators deployed across multiple network functions. Each propagator independently handles configuration updates for its local group of NFs, eliminating the single point of failure while maintaining manageable configuration propagation through modular, distributed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional centralized management architecture to a multi-dimensional distributed architecture where configuration propagation occurs across multiple spatial dimensions (different NF groups, different propagation paths). This dimensional expansion provides redundancy and eliminates single points of failure while maintaining operational simplicity through structured propagation rules.
2Stability of the object's composition
If configuration updates are propagated to all distributed network functions simultaneously, then consistency is maintained, but network downtime increases and performance optimization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary grouping of network functions into configuration groups with assigned propagators before updates are needed. Configuration updates are prepared and routed to specific propagators in advance, allowing staged propagation to different NF groups at optimal times rather than simultaneous propagation, thereby reducing overall downtime while maintaining consistency within each group.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configuration propagation where the timing and sequence of update application can be adjusted based on network conditions, NF priorities, and operational requirements. Different NF groups can receive and apply updates at different times, allowing the system to maintain consistency within groups while optimizing overall network performance and minimizing total downtime.
3Reliability
If a decentralized approach is implemented for configuration updates, then robustness and performance optimization improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal configuration propagator components that can be deployed across multiple network functions with identical functionality. Each propagator serves multiple NFs within its group using the same standardized interface and propagation logic, which simplifies the decentralized architecture by repeating proven components rather than creating custom solutions for each NF, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining robustness.
4Ease of operation
If configuration updates are applied at centralized locations, then control is simplified, but computational burden on centralized systems increases and local optimization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration propagation functionality from the centralized management system and deploys it as independent propagator components distributed across the network. This extraction removes the computational burden of configuration processing from the centralized system while maintaining simplified control through centralized propagation policy definition, allowing local execution of configuration updates without centralized computational overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
A system described herein may receive a configuration update, which includes a plurality of values that for a plurality of respective parameters based on which Network Functions (“NFs”) of a wireless network operate, and that is provided to multiple NFs of the wireless network. The system may monitor Key Performance Indicators (“KPIs”) associated with a particular NF of the plurality of NFs; receive a set of configuration modification thresholds that include modification thresholds for one or more parameters of the plurality of parameters included in the configuration update; modify at least one parameter, of the plurality of parameters of the configuration update, based on the monitored KPIs associated with the particular NF of the wireless network; and implement, by the particular NF of the wireless network, the modified at least one parameter.