Service-Centric VNF Architecture for Multi-Vendor Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of multi-vendor interoperability in network service providers, due to different interpretations of 3GPP standards, leads to delays in introducing new services and technologies, as well as increased complexity in network capacity augmentation, requiring extensive planning and regression testing.
Innovation Solution
A service-centric virtual network function (VNF) architecture is implemented in a cloud computing system, decomposing network hardware and software functions into granular VNFs that can be instantiated and customized for specific services, allowing for flexible deployment and optimization of service-specific functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network hardware and software functions are tightly coupled with vendor-specific proprietary hardware, then service implementation is straightforward within a single vendor's ecosystem, but multi-vendor interoperability becomes complex and delays service introduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network functions into Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) that can be independently deployed and managed. Each VNF represents a discrete network function (e.g., firewall, load balancer, VPN) that can be provided by different vendors, enabling multi-vendor interoperability while reducing system complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a Virtualization Layer as an intermediary between the physical infrastructure and network functions. This layer abstracts the underlying hardware and software complexities, providing a standardized interface that enables different vendors' VNFs to interoperate seamlessly without direct coupling
2Reliability
If extensive regression testing is performed to ensure no adverse impacts to other network nodes and services, then service reliability is maintained, but service introduction time increases to at least six months
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs regression testing in advance by creating and maintaining a comprehensive test suite that covers all network nodes and services. This test suite is executed automatically during the service introduction process, allowing potential adverse impacts to be detected early without requiring lengthy manual testing periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms through continuous monitoring and testing systems that provide real-time information about service impacts. This enables rapid detection and response to any adverse effects on network nodes and services, maintaining reliability while reducing introduction time through iterative validation
3Stability of the object's composition
If new network elements and applications are deployed with extensive planning and capital commitment, then deployment stability is ensured, but deployment flexibility and speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic deployment of VNFs through virtualization, allowing network functions to be instantiated, migrated, and scaled flexibly based on changing requirements. This dynamic approach maintains stability through automated orchestration while providing the flexibility to rapidly deploy new services without extensive re-planning
4Adaptability or versatility
If network functions are decomposed into granular VNFs that can be selectively instantiated, then service-specific flexibility is improved, but system complexity in managing multiple VNFs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal VNF management platform that handles multiple VNFs through standardized interfaces and orchestration mechanisms. This platform provides multi-functional capabilities including deployment, configuration, monitoring, and lifecycle management, reducing the complexity of managing granular VNFs while maintaining service-specific customization flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect disclosed herein, a service centric virtual network function architecture can be used for development and deployment of services in a cloud computing system. The cloud computing system can include a plurality of compute resources and a plurality of memory resources. A portion of the plurality of memory resources can include virtual machine monitor instructions. The virtual machine monitor instructions can be executed by a first portion of the plurality of compute resources to perform operations. In particular, the virtual machine monitor instructions can be executed by the first portion of the plurality of compute resources to instantiate a virtual network function to be executed by a second portion of the plurality of compute resources. The virtual network function can include at least a portion of a decomposition of a physical network function that supports at least a portion of a telecommunications service.