Network Function Scaling via Dynamic Control Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems face inefficiencies in managing network resources due to uniform scaling of network functions, which can lead to overutilization or underutilization of resources, affecting performance and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that determine control parameters for network functions using dynamic characteristics, such as time delay, time constant, and energy consumption, to dynamically adjust the number of instances based on target and latest metric values, optimizing resource usage while minimizing energy consumption and maintaining service levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If uniform scaling is applied to all network functions, then resource allocation is simplified, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates leading to overutilization or underutilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by determining control parameters specifically for each network function based on its dynamic characteristics (time delay, time constant, gain). Instead of uniform scaling, each network function receives customized scaling control adapted to its specific behavior patterns, thereby improving resource utilization efficiency without significantly increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by continuously monitoring metric values and adjusting the number of network function instances in real-time based on current load conditions. The system transitions from static uniform scaling to dynamic adaptive scaling, where control parameters are updated based on observed network behavior, enabling optimal resource allocation that responds to changing demands
2Measurement precision
If dynamic characteristics are considered for each network function, then resource provisioning accuracy is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting control parameters (time delay, time constant, gain) based on the dynamic characteristics of each network function. These parameter modifications enable accurate resource provisioning tailored to each network function's specific behavior, improving measurement precision while managing complexity through systematic parameter adaptation rather than completely new control mechanisms
3Reliability
If more network function instances are instantiated to ensure service levels, then service reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring metric values from network functions and using this information to adjust the number of instances dynamically. The system receives feedback on actual performance and resource usage, then adapts the instance count accordingly, ensuring service levels are maintained only when needed while reducing energy consumption during lower-demand periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static over-provisioning to dynamic scaling. The number of network function instances is continuously adjusted based on real-time metric values, allowing the system to maintain reliability during high-demand periods while minimizing energy consumption during low-demand periods, rather than consistently maintaining a fixed number of instances
Data Source
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AI summary
To take into account different behavior of network functions, values of dynamic characteristics for network functions are used when values of at least one control parameter for the network functions are determined. A number of instances to be instantiated or de-instantiated for a network function is determined based on at least a value of the at least one control parameter for a network function, and a target value and a latest value of at least one metric.