Network Resource Broker for Cross-Operator Infrastructure Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing competing demands in network planning and deployment is challenging due to limited resources in shared infrastructure, especially in advanced networks like 5G, where network slicing is required to meet diverse traffic flow needs, and existing methods for resource sharing between virtual networks are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for requesting and provisioning infrastructure and spectrum resources in real-time between network domains using Negotiator and Broker functions within a Management and Orchestration (MANO) entity, enabling the sharing of resources such as core network resources, data center resources, and radio access network resources to meet performance demands without expanding owned resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network operators use shared infrastructure to service customer demands, then resource utilization is improved, but resource conflicts and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Broker function as an intermediary entity that mediates resource sharing between network operators. The Broker receives resource requests from one operator, negotiates with other operators' MANO entities, and coordinates resource allocation. This intermediary approach resolves the technical contradiction by automating the complex negotiation and coordination processes, thereby improving resource utilization while managing the complexity through centralized automation rather than direct operator-to-operator negotiations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network slicing is implemented to meet diverse traffic flow needs, then service adaptability is improved, but infrastructure resource demands increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a single shared infrastructure to support multiple network slices with different service requirements through the Broker function. The Broker allocates physical network resources dynamically to different virtual network operators, allowing each operator to create customized network slices tailored to specific traffic flows (e.g., enhanced mobile broadband, ultra-reliable low-latency communications). This multi-functionality approach allows the same infrastructure resources to serve multiple purposes simultaneously, improving service adaptability without proportionally increasing infrastructure demands.
3Productivity
If network operators expand owned resources to meet increasing customer demands, then service capacity is improved, but capital expenditure and resource efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the resource pools of multiple network operators through a shared infrastructure model coordinated by the Broker function. Instead of each operator independently expanding their own resources, the Broker enables operators to access and utilize each other's unused or underutilized resources. This combining approach allows operators to meet increasing customer demands and improve service capacity by leveraging shared resources, thereby avoiding the need for each operator to make separate capital expenditures for resource expansion.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided a system and method for virtual infrastructure management and in some embodiments for virtual infrastructure management between operator networks. According to embodiments, there is provided a system and a method for the requesting and provisioning of network resources including infrastructure resources, spectrum resources or both, between network operators.