Network Function Software Version Configuration via Incremental Incorporation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for deploying new network function software versions in wireless communication networks are manual and prone to errors, leading to significant downtime and lack of confidence in update accuracy, with no automated way to roll out updates beyond complete manual procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring network function software versions by receiving a new software version, determining an incorporation plan, and configuring it to handle a portion of cases previously handled by an old version, including transmitting information about availability and incrementally increasing usage based on performance criteria.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual deployment methods are used for new network function software versions, then deployment can be performed with existing procedures, but the process is prone to errors and causes significant downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by creating a test environment that mirrors the production network and deploying the new software version there first. This allows validation of the software version, determination of an incorporation plan, and configuration of gradual transition parameters before actual deployment, thereby preventing errors and minimizing downtime in the production environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary test environment between the software development stage and the production network. This intermediary allows for validation and incorporation plan determination without directly impacting the production system, thus improving reliability while reducing the risk of extended downtime.
2Extent of automation
If complete manual procedures are used for software version updates, then deployment can be performed, but automation is limited and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by monitoring the performance and stability of the new software version as it is gradually incorporated into the production network. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the incorporation rate and can rollback if issues are detected, thereby achieving both automation and high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities where the incorporation rate of the new software version is not fixed but can be automatically adjusted based on system performance metrics. This dynamic approach allows the system to balance automation with reliability by speeding up or slowing down deployment based on real-time conditions.
3Productivity
If new software version is deployed immediately to handle all cases, then full functionality is achieved, but risks of errors and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the new software version handle only a portion of network cases initially, rather than all cases. The incorporation plan specifies gradual increase of the new version's workload from a small percentage to full deployment, balancing transition speed with risk mitigation.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment process is segmented into multiple phases: validation in test environment, gradual incorporation into production with increasing percentages, and full deployment. This segmentation allows for controlled risk management while maintaining overall productivity by progressing through defined stages.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for configuring a network function software version. One method includes receiving, at a network device, a new NF software version. The method includes determining an incorporation plan for the new NF software version. The method includes configuring the new NF software version based on a step of the incorporation plan to use the new NF software version to handle a portion of cases previously handled by an old NF software version.