Flexible Physical Virtual Function Mapping in NFV

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing network function virtualization (NFV) platforms have a fixed mapping between physical functions (PFs) and virtual functions (VFs), which limits flexibility in resource utilization and management, especially in systems with programmable devices where functionality can change dynamically.

Innovation Solution

A flexible mapping mechanism between PFs and VFs is introduced, allowing for dynamic reconfiguration and prioritization based on virtual machine characteristics, enabling better resource allocation and access control in co-processor environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a fixed mapping between physical functions and virtual functions is used, then system simplicity is maintained, but resource utilization flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemapping mechanism simplicityVSAvoidresource utilization flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic mapping mechanism where the mapping between physical functions and virtual functions can be changed at runtime based on system conditions and requirements. The mapping is no longer static but can be reconfigured to optimize resource utilization for different workloads and scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows changing the mapping parameters between PFs and VFs based on different operational requirements. By modifying which VF maps to which PF, the system can adapt resource allocation to match varying demands without hardware changes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If functionality is changed in programmable devices, then adaptability improves, but mapping management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctionality change capabilityVSAvoidmapping management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor system state and performance, automatically adjusting the PF-VF mapping based on observed conditions. This reduces the burden on manual configuration and helps manage complexity through intelligent, state-aware adaptation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The mapping management system performs self-configuration and self-optimization based on system requirements and performance metrics, reducing the need for external intervention and simplifying management despite increased functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If dynamic reconfiguration is enabled, then resource utilization improves, but system stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidsystem stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary validation and planning before executing mapping changes, ensuring that reconfigurations are performed safely and do not compromise system stability. This proactive approach prevents problematic states while enabling dynamic adaptation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements protective measures and validation checks before applying mapping changes, cushioning against potential instability. This ensures that dynamic reconfiguration occurs in a controlled manner that maintains system reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS11675613B2Flexible physical function and virtual function mapping

Publication Date: 2023.06.13 ALTERA CORP

AI summary

Techniques and mechanisms provide a flexible mapping for physical functions and virtual functions in an environment including virtual machines.