HTTP Proxy Hop Limits for 5G SBI Message Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G telecommunications networks lack a mechanism to limit the number of hops that service-based interface (SBI) messages traverse, leading to unnecessary network traffic generation and routing even after timeout, as defined timers do not restrict the number of hops.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a maximum hop parameter in the packet header of HTTP proxy elements to restrict the number of hops, allowing consumer NFs to specify a maximum number of hops, and configuring proxy servers to decrement this value until it reaches zero, thereby preventing further forwarding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If timers are used to define the amount of time during which an SBI message should arrive at a producer NF, then timeout control is improved, but the number of hops is not limited and unnecessary network traffic is still generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the hop control mechanism from the timer mechanism. Instead of relying solely on time-based control, it introduces a separate hop counter parameter that independently limits the number of proxy servers an SBI message can traverse. This segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both timeout control and traffic reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary hop counter parameter that acts as a mediator between the timer mechanism and network traffic control. This hop counter serves as an additional control layer that works alongside existing timers to prevent unnecessary traffic generation after timeout.
2Adaptability or versatility
If no limit is placed on the number of HTTP proxy servers that an SBI message can traverse, then service delivery flexibility is improved, but network traffic and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic hop limiting where the maximum number of hops can be configured based on network conditions, service requirements, and deployment scenarios. This dynamic parameter allows the system to adapt between more flexible service delivery (higher hop limits) and reduced network traffic (lower hop limits) as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of hop count from an unlimited value to a configurable maximum value. By introducing this new parameter with adjustable settings, the system can optimize the balance between service delivery flexibility and network traffic consumption based on specific operational requirements.
3Reliability
If SBI messages continue to be routed after timer expiration, then message delivery attempts are improved, but decision-making efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by setting the maximum hop count before the SBI message traverses the network. This pre-configured limit enables proxy servers to make immediate decisions about message forwarding based on the remaining hop count, eliminating the need for continued routing attempts after timer expiration and improving decision-making efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for restricting a number of hops conducted in a communications network are disclosed. One method includes receiving, by a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) proxy element in a first network region, a service request message including a header section that specifies a maximum number of hops value and conducting a search for a producer network function (NF) in the first network region to provide a network service requested in the service request message. The method further includes determining the maximum number of hops value in the header section of the service request message if the HTTP proxy element is unable to locate the producer NF in the first network region, reducing the maximum number of hops value in the header section of the service request message by one to derive an updated maximum number of hops value if the HTTP proxy element determines that the maximum number of hops value in the header section is greater than zero, and directing the service request message containing the updated maximum number of hops value to a second HTTP proxy element located in a second network region.