NFV Orchestrator Traffic Routing for Network Augmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network infrastructure faces challenges in dynamically managing data traffic and optimizing network performance, particularly in handling varying traffic loads and types, which can lead to overloading and increased costs due to the need for frequent upgrades or replacements.
Innovation Solution
A Network Function Virtualization Orchestrator (NFV-O) module is used to monitor and manage data traffic, directing it to Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) based on traffic load and type, allowing for on-the-fly augmentation of physical systems with virtual services, thereby reducing costs and enhancing flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If physical network systems are upgraded or replaced frequently to handle varying traffic loads, then network performance is improved, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of network functions (VNFs) that can be instantiated on-demand to handle traffic loads. Instead of physically upgrading infrastructure, the system deploys virtual instances that replicate necessary network functions, allowing flexible scaling without proportional cost increases in physical hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The NFV-O module dynamically manages traffic distribution between physical and virtual network functions based on real-time load conditions. This dynamic allocation allows the system to adapt to varying traffic demands without requiring frequent physical upgrades, optimizing resource utilization and reducing costs
2Productivity
If physical network systems are upgraded or replaced frequently to handle varying traffic loads, then network capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal management architecture where the NFV-O module handles multiple functions including traffic monitoring, VNF instantiation, and load balancing. This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into a single management layer rather than increasing complexity across multiple physical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The NFV-O module serves as an intermediary layer between physical network infrastructure and virtual network functions. This intermediary manages the complexity of coordinating between physical and virtual components, abstracting the complexity away from the overall system architecture
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual services are integrated into physical systems, then flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions into distinct virtual instances that can be independently managed, deployed, and scaled. This segmentation allows flexible integration of virtual services while maintaining clear boundaries and management control through the NFV-O orchestrator
Data Source
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AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for augmenting a physical network system utilizing a network function virtualization orchestrator (NFV-O). In use, data traffic is monitored utilizing a Network Function Virtualization Orchestrator (NFV-O) module associated with at least a portion of a physical network system, the NFV-0 module being operable to manage data flow associated with one or more Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) and one or more physical elements of the physical network system. Additionally, it is determined whether flow of the data traffic should be modified based on at least one of a traffic load or a traffic type utilizing the NFV-O module integrated in the physical network system. Further, at least a portion of the data traffic is directed front at least one of the physical elements to at least one of the VNFs when it is determined that the flow of the data traffic should be modified.