Network Repository Function Dynamic Resource Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
5G core networks face challenges in managing resource allocation for network functions (NFs) due to fluctuations in load caused by changing user demand, network outages, and other events, leading to inefficient resource use and poor user experience, as NFs lack direct communication with infrastructure environment services to adjust resources in real-time.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where Network Repository Functions (NRFs) within the 5G core network can directly receive load information from NFs and send alerts to the orchestration system to adjust resource capacity based on predefined or dynamically determined load thresholds, enabling dynamic resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network functions operate with fixed resource allocation, then device complexity is reduced, but resource allocation efficiency deteriorates due to inability to respond to load changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where network functions report their operational status and load information to the Network Repository Function, which then provides feedback to the orchestration system. This enables dynamic resource allocation adjustments based on real-time conditions, resolving the contradiction between fixed allocation simplicity and dynamic allocation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static resource allocation to dynamic resource allocation by enabling the orchestration system to adjust resource capacity in real-time based on load thresholds and network conditions. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing demands while maintaining manageable complexity through automated decision-making.
2Loss of time
If network functions cannot communicate directly with infrastructure services, then device complexity is reduced, but response time to load changes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the Network Repository Function as an intermediary component that facilitates communication between network functions and the orchestration system. This intermediary enables efficient information exchange and coordinated resource management without requiring direct complex communication protocols between all components, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining fast response times.
3Adaptability or versatility
If resources are allocated based on predicted load, then resource waste is reduced, but adaptability to sudden load changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by establishing baseline resource allocation and predefined load thresholds before actual load changes occur. The system continuously monitors load conditions and triggers resource adjustments when thresholds are crossed, enabling both efficient baseline resource usage and rapid adaptation to sudden changes without waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic resource allocation that adapts to actual load conditions in real-time. The system can scale resources up or down based on observed load patterns, providing both adaptability to sudden changes and efficiency in steady-state operation, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and resource waste.
Data Source
AI summary
A device may include a processor configured to register a network function, of a core network associated with a radio access network, in a network function repository for the core network. The processor may be further configured to obtain load information for the network function, wherein the load information indicates a load associated with the network function during a time period; determine that the load associated with the network function has reached a threshold based on the load information; and send an alert to an orchestration system to adjust a capacity for the network function, in response to determining that the load associated with the network function has reached the threshold.