Intent-Based Networking Fulfillment Timing Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current intent-based networking systems lack the ability to consider and manage timing constraints effectively, leading to potential delays in achieving specific network management outcomes, which can impact consumer needs and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of timing information determination and transmission mechanisms that allow for the specification of deadlines for intent fulfillment, enabling the intent management system to prioritize and optimize network management actions based on these deadlines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If timing information determination and transmission mechanisms are introduced, then the timeliness of network management actions is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefulfillment delayVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the intent fulfillment process into distinct phases with timing information attached to each. The system divides network management outcomes into sub-targets, each with its own timing requirements, allowing independent tracking and control of timing for different aspects of intent fulfillment without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by determining timing information in advance during intent specification, before the actual fulfillment process begins. The timing requirements are established upfront and transmitted to the fulfillment system, enabling proactive scheduling and prioritization of network management actions rather than reactive responses after delays occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If timing constraints are enforced for network management outcomes, then the productivity is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintent fulfillment efficiencyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer that handles timing constraint management between the user and the network management system. This intermediary automatically processes timing information, performs feasibility checks, and coordinates fulfillment actions, shielding users from the complexity of timing enforcement while maintaining high productivity through automated scheduling and prioritization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the fulfillment process against timing constraints. The system provides feedback on timing compliance status, allows for dynamic adjustment of timing requirements based on current system state, and communicates fulfillment progress to stakeholders, thereby maintaining productivity while simplifying operational oversight through automated monitoring and reporting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP4425869A1Fulfillment control in intent-based networking
Publication Date: 2024.09.04 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
  • EP4425869A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4425869A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4425869A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

There are provided measures for fulfillment control in intent-based networking. Such measures exemplarily comprise determining timing information indicative of when accomplishing a specific sub-target of a requested network management outcome is required, said requested network management outcome including at least one sub-target including said specific sub-target.