Network Resource Module for Virtual Network Infrastructure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Virtual Network Operators (VNOs) face difficulties in creating and managing their networks using resources in 3GPP LTE-EPC communication networks due to limitations in communicating with network nodes and identifying available resources, which hampers granular control and Quality of Service (QoS) management.
Innovation Solution
A network resource module is introduced between LTE-EPC network nodes and IaaS middleware, facilitating communication and abstracting resources into Virtual Resource Objects (VROs) that are published in a registry for discovery by VNOs, enabling them to build and maintain virtual networks independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PCC entities in the 3GPP LTE-EPC network are used to manage QoS, then Quality of Service control is improved, but the ability to communicate with components outside the network deteriorates, making it difficult to identify available resources to VNOs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Network Resource Module (NRM) as an intermediary component that bridges the PCC entities within the LTE-EPC network and the IaaS middleware manager outside the network. The NRM translates and facilitates communication between these two systems, allowing PCC entities to maintain their QoS management functions while enabling external components to discover and utilize available network resources. This mediator resolves the contradiction by providing a communication interface without compromising the internal QoS control mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network resources are provided at varying levels of granularity (link level and flow level), then resource selection flexibility for VNOs is improved, but the complexity of managing and communicating these resources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network resources into distinct Virtual Resource Objects (VROs) that represent different granularities of resource allocation. Each VRO encapsulates specific resource characteristics and capabilities, allowing VNOs to select and combine resources at the appropriate level of granularity (link level, flow level, or other granularities) based on their specific needs. This segmentation approach manages complexity by providing standardized, modular resource representations that simplify the selection and management process for VNOs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If IaaS middleware is adapted to communicate with LTE-EPC network nodes, then Infrastructure-as-a-Service functionality is extended to communication networks, but the complexity of integrating different communication protocols and interfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The Network Resource Module serves as an intermediary that handles the complexity of protocol translation and interface integration between the IaaS middleware and LTE-EPC network nodes. The NRM implements the necessary communication protocols and translation mechanisms, allowing the IaaS middleware to interact with network resources through a standardized interface without directly dealing with the complexity of LTE-EPC protocols. This separates the integration complexity from the core IaaS functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates Virtual Resource Objects (VROs) as simplified representations or copies of the actual network resources. These VROs capture the essential characteristics and capabilities of network resources in a format that is easily manageable by the IaaS middleware. By working with these virtual copies rather than directly managing the complex physical network resources, the system reduces integration complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A network resource module communicatively interfaces a resource manager with one or more network nodes in a communications network. Each network node provides one or more network resources that may be used to create a virtual infrastructure for a virtual network. The network resource module detects the network nodes, abstracts the resources associated with the network nodes at a desired granularity (e.g., node level or flow level) into Virtual Resource Objects (VROs), and then publishes the VROs in a registry. Thereafter, Virtual Network Operators (VROs) select desired VROs from the registry to build the virtual infrastructure for the virtual network.