Distributed Orchestration for Multi-Site VNF Deployment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) platform faces challenges in scaling to support the deployment of virtual network functions (VNFs) across thousands of sites, particularly in meeting the speed and latency requirements of 5G networks, due to complexities in managing and orchestrating resources across diverse cloud computing environments.
Innovation Solution
A distributed orchestration framework is implemented within the NFV platform, enabling the deployment of VNFs across a hybrid cloud infrastructure with a central orchestrator that manages and provisions virtual links between different data centers, allowing for the deployment of VNFs across thousands of sites, including edge data centers, using a unified set of commands compatible with various cloud management software types and versions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If VNFs are deployed across thousands of sites to meet 5G speed and latency requirements, then network performance is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the orchestration system into distributed orchestration nodes deployed across multiple sites, each managing local VNF deployment independently. This segmentation allows the system to scale to thousands of sites without centralizing complexity, as each node operates autonomously while coordinating through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary abstraction layer that standardizes interactions between diverse cloud management environments and VNF deployment processes. This intermediary layer handles complexity by providing unified APIs and translation mechanisms, allowing VNFs to be deployed across heterogeneous environments without exposing the underlying complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If diverse cloud computing environments are supported, then adaptability is improved, but management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal orchestration framework that can manage multiple types of cloud computing environments through a single standardized interface. The system provides multi-functionality by supporting various cloud management software types and versions simultaneously, allowing VNF deployment across heterogeneous environments without requiring separate management systems for each.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes to adapt to different cloud environments by dynamically adjusting configuration parameters based on the detected environment type. The system identifies the specific cloud platform and modifies its management approach accordingly, allowing flexible adaptation to diverse environments while maintaining a consistent management interface.
3Area of stationary object
If VNF deployment is scaled to thousands of sites, then network coverage is improved, but deployment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring orchestration nodes and VNF templates at distributed locations before actual deployment is needed. VNF packages and configuration parameters are staged in advance at edge locations, allowing rapid instantiation when deployment is triggered, thus expanding coverage without proportionally increasing deployment time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of deploying a network service across a plurality of data centers, includes the steps of: in response to a request for or relating to a network service, identifying virtual network functions associated with the network service and determining network connectivity requirements of the virtual network functions, issuing commands to provision a virtual link between at least two of the data centers in which the virtual network functions are to be deployed.