5G NF Task Coordination via NRF-Based Leader Election
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leader election mechanisms for network function groups in 5G networks are inflexible, requiring all NF instances to be deployed on the same infrastructure, lack integration with 5G APIs, and are not designed for geographically separated locations, leading to inefficiencies in task coordination and potential duplication or omission of tasks.
Innovation Solution
A leader election mechanism based on 5G service-based architecture APIs using the Network Repository Function (NRF) or Unstructured Data Storage Function (UDSF) to facilitate task responsibility coordination among NF instances, allowing customizable leader granularity and scope, and enabling efficient task execution even across geographically separated locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing leader election mechanisms are used, then all NF instances must be deployed on the same infrastructure, but this reduces flexibility and prevents geographically separated deployments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the NRF (Network Repository Function) as an intermediary component that manages leader election information centrally. Instead of requiring direct peer-to-peer communication between NF instances on the same infrastructure, the NRF acts as a mediator that stores and provides leader election data, enabling NF instances to be deployed across different locations while maintaining coordinated leadership.
2Adaptability or versatility
If leader election is implemented without integration with 5G APIs, then implementation is simpler, but it lacks integration with NF status notifications from NRF
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the leader election mechanism with the existing 5G service-based architecture and NRF functionality. The leader election information is stored and managed within the NRF's existing data structures and notification mechanisms, combining two functions (service registration and leader election) into a single integrated system rather than maintaining separate mechanisms.
3Reliability
If no delegation/coordination is implemented, then NF instances operate independently, but tasks are either executed multiple times or not at all
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the NRF continuously maintains and updates leader election information based on NF instance status changes. NF instances query the NRF to determine current leadership status before executing tasks, and the NRF provides real-time feedback about which instance should execute which tasks, ensuring tasks are executed exactly once by the correct leader.
4Reliability
If proprietary/manual security provisioning is used, then security control is achievable, but deployment and maintenance becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables NF instances to automatically obtain leader election information and security credentials through standard 5G API interactions with the NRF. The system self-configures security relationships between NF instances and the NRF without requiring manual security provisioning, as the NRF automatically manages authentication and authorization based on registered NF instance identities.
Data Source
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AI summary
There are provided measures for task responsibility coordination. Such measures exemplarily comprise recognizing addition of said network function entity to a network entity composition, acquiring task coordination responsibility information with respect to said network entity composition, analyzing said task coordination responsibility information, and initiating, if said task coordination responsibility information does not define a valid task coordination responsible for a specific task, addition of said network function entity as said task coordination responsible for said specific task.