Microslices for Wireless Network QoS and Load Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current network slicing technologies are inflexible and costly, making it difficult for smaller enterprises to tailor and manage network slices efficiently, as they require administration by large telecommunications companies, limiting customization, efficiency, and adoption.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of microslices allows network administrators to create end-to-end logical networks with customizable Quality of Service (QoS) and Service Level Objectives (SLOs), enabling granular control and management of network resources, allowing for more efficient use of bandwidth and simplified administration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If network slicing technology is implemented to allow customization of network access, then network efficiency and service tailoring are improved, but device complexity and administrative overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork efficiencyVSAvoidadministrative overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the network into multiple independent network slices, each tailored to specific service requirements. This segmentation allows different parts of the network to be optimized independently for different functions (e.g., enhanced mobile broadband, ultra-reliable low-latency communication, massive machine-type communication), improving overall network efficiency while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic network slicing where slices can be created, modified, and deleted on-demand based on service requirements. This dynamic approach allows the network to adapt flexibly to changing demands without requiring permanent complex configurations, thereby improving productivity while controlling administrative overhead through automated lifecycle management

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If network slicing is implemented with granular control, then service customization is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates as administration becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice customizationVSAvoidease of administration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the network automatically manages slice creation, configuration, and optimization based on predefined policies and service level agreements. This reduces the burden on administrators while maintaining granular customization capabilities, as the system autonomously handles complex configuration tasks without requiring deep manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal network slicing framework that can accommodate multiple service types and customization requirements through a single standardized interface. This multi-functional approach allows diverse services to be delivered through the same slicing mechanism, improving adaptability while simplifying administration by avoiding the need for service-specific management procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If traditional network slicing is used, then network resource allocation is improved, but cost effectiveness worsens for smaller enterprises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource allocation efficiencyVSAvoidcost effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple network slices onto shared physical infrastructure, allowing efficient resource allocation across different services while reducing overall network costs. This consolidation enables smaller enterprises to access customized network services without requiring dedicated expensive infrastructure, improving cost-effectiveness while maintaining resource allocation efficiency through virtualization and shared resources

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11284288B2Method and apparatus for microslicing wireless communication networks with device groups, service level objectives, and load/admission control
Publication Date: 2022.03.22 CELONA INC
  • US11284288B2 patent drawing
  • US11284288B2 patent drawing
  • US11284288B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for defining and administering microslices by a network administrator in an enterprise network is described. Microslices provide an end-to-end logical network through multiple networks, which allows a network administrator to efficiently arrange data flows in the enterprise network with a defined Quality of Service (QoS). Various embodiments of a system for creating and implementing microslices in a wireless communications network, such as a 4G LTE or 5G network are disclosed. In some embodiments the logical network connects a UE in the enterprise network with an external server through at least a Radio Access Network (RAN) and a Core Network. In some embodiments, the network administrator can define groups of UEs, define a plurality of service types, and specify an amount of network resources to be allocated to the microslice. After a microslice instance is set up, network operation can be monitored and modified.