Network Slice Management Feedback for Dynamic Resource Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G network slicing technologies lack a feedback mechanism to optimize utilization of network slice components post-creation, relying solely on input from service consumers rather than performance feedback regarding slice utilization or capacity.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a feedback mechanism using a network data analytics function (NWDAF) to dynamically monitor network slice resource utilization and modify resource allocations based on real-time load information, independent of consumer monitoring requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network slice resource allocation is based solely on consumer input without feedback mechanism, then service consumer control is maintained, but resource utilization optimization is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network slice management function receives performance feedback from the network data analytics function regarding slice utilization and capacity. This feedback loop enables the system to dynamically adjust resource allocations based on actual performance data, resolving the contradiction between maintaining consumer control and optimizing resource utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The network slice management function autonomously modifies network slice resource allocations based on performance feedback without requiring continuous consumer intervention. The system self-adjusts resource allocations by receiving feedback from the analytics function and automatically implementing modifications to optimize utilization while maintaining service quality.
2Productivity
If dynamic resource allocation is implemented without feedback mechanism, then resource flexibility is improved, but resource utilization optimization cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The network data analytics function provides real-time performance feedback including load information, utilization metrics, and capacity data to the network slice management function. This feedback enables dynamic resource allocation decisions that optimize productivity and resource utilization while maintaining service quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively monitors performance metrics and triggers resource allocation modifications before service quality degradation occurs. The analytics function continuously collects data and the management function preemptively adjusts resources based on trends and thresholds, preventing rather than merely reacting to problems.
3Reliability
If consumer monitoring requests are required for resource adjustments, then service consumer control is maintained, but service quality transparency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The network slice management function autonomously monitors performance feedback and implements resource allocation modifications without requiring consumer monitoring requests. This self-service approach maintains service quality through continuous optimization while transparently operating in the consumer's best interest without burdening them with monitoring responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The network slice management function acts as an intermediary between the analytics function and the network slice resources. It receives performance feedback, processes it against service quality requirements, and automatically implements appropriate resource adjustments, shielding consumers from complex monitoring and control operations while maintaining service quality.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for feedback-based network slice management includes steps performed at a network slice management function (NSMF) including at least one processor. The steps include subscribing, via a network data analytics function (NWDAF) subscription interface of the NSMF, directly with the NWDAF to create a subscription to be notified of network slice load information and specifying, as part of the subscription, network slice load information report generation criteria defined by the NSMF. The steps further include receiving, directly from the NWDAF, via the NWDAF subscription interface of the NSMF and in response to the NSMF-defined network slice load information report triggering criteria being met, network slice load information. The steps further include determining, based on the network slice load information, that a network slice resource allocation change is needed. The steps further include, in response to determining that a network slice resource allocation change is needed, dynamically changing the network slice resource allocation during operation of a network slice.