NFVO VIM Segmented Path Computation for Multi-Part VNF Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network function virtualization orchestration methods face difficulties in creating multi-part VNF services that span both physical and virtual networks while meeting the requirements specified in service level agreements (SLAs), particularly in ensuring latency and resource allocation across integrated networks.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a network function virtualization orchestrator (NFVO) and virtualized infrastructure manager (VIM) to obtain path computation information, generate labels for physical links, and determine network paths using segment routing techniques, ensuring compliance with SLA attributes by coordinating data transfer across both virtual and physical networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current orchestration methods are used to create multi-part VNF services, then service deployment can be achieved, but difficulty arises in meeting SLA requirements across physical and virtual networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network path computation into multiple parts: virtual network segments and physical network segments. The NFVO computes virtual network paths while the VIM computes physical network paths, allowing each segment to be optimized independently for its specific requirements and constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the VIM acts as a mediator between the NFVO and the physical network infrastructure. The VIM receives path computation requests from the NFVO, computes the corresponding physical paths, and coordinates resource allocation, thereby simplifying the overall orchestration while ensuring SLA compliance.
2Productivity
If path computation is performed without segment routing techniques, then simpler orchestration is possible, but network performance and resource optimization are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segment routing by dividing the end-to-end path into multiple segments, each with specific labels and attributes. Virtual network paths and physical network paths are segmented and computed separately, then stitched together to form the complete service chain, enabling optimized resource utilization and performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation from traditional routing tables to segment labels. Each segment is identified by labels that encode path attributes, enabling more flexible and efficient path computation that can dynamically adapt to network conditions and SLA requirements.
3Reliability
If resource allocation is not coordinated between VIM and NFVO, then independent management is simpler, but multi-part VNF services cannot meet SLA requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the resource allocation functions of the NFVO and VIM into a coordinated orchestration process. The NFVO allocates virtual network resources while the VIM allocates physical infrastructure resources, with both working together to ensure that the combined resource allocation meets the SLA requirements for the entire service chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the VIM provides path computation results and resource status back to the NFVO, which then adjusts its virtual network path computation accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures that resource allocation decisions are coordinated and that SLA requirements are met while maintaining manageable orchestration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of the present disclosure can include a method. The method may include (1) obtaining, by an network function virtualization orchestrator (“NFVO”), path computation information from the integrated network, the integrated network including a virtual source and a virtual destination, (2) generating, using the path computation information, segments identifying portions of a virtual network path originating at the virtual source and terminating at the virtual destination, (3) generating, by a virtual infrastructure manager (“VIM”), a plurality of labels associated with physical links on the physical network corresponding to the identified portions of the virtual network path, and (4) determining, by the NFVO and using the plurality of labels, a network path for data transfer over the integrated network, the network path identifying virtual and physical network elements.