Shared Network Slice Instance Management for Wireless NSMF Bottlenecks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network slice management systems face inefficiencies when handling requests for communication service instance (CSI) termination, leading to potential bottlenecks in network slice management functions (NSMF) due to the need for separate orchestration and management of multiple small network slice instances (NSIs), and lack defined procedures for CSI re-allocation.
Innovation Solution
A method for managing shared network slice instances (NSIs) involves determining the level of scaling required upon CSI termination, reallocating active CSIs to another NSI, and modifying or terminating the current NSI based on predefined criteria, thereby reducing the number of NSIs managed by a single NSMF and optimizing resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate orchestration and management of multiple small network slice instances (NSIs) is performed, then each NSI can be independently managed, but the network slice management function (NSMF) experiences bottlenecks and reduced efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple small network slice instances (NSIs) into a shared NSI that can serve multiple communication service instances (CSIs). Instead of managing each NSI separately, the system consolidates them under a single shared NSI, reducing the management overhead on the NSMF while maintaining the ability to independently allocate and manage resources for each CSI within the shared NSI framework.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple small network slice instances (NSIs) are managed separately, then each NSI can be optimized for specific services, but the number of NSIs increases leading to management complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal shared NSI that can serve multiple different CSIs with diverse service requirements. The shared NSI is designed to be multi-functional, accommodating various communication services through dynamic resource allocation and configuration, thereby reducing the total number of NSIs needed while maintaining service-specific optimization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
While consolidating NSIs, the patent segments the shared NSI into logical partitions or slices that can be independently configured and managed for different CSIs. This segmentation allows service-specific optimization within the unified NSI structure, enabling each CSI to receive tailored resource allocation without requiring separate physical NSIs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If CSI re-allocation procedures are not defined, then system flexibility is maintained, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes predefined procedures and criteria for CSI re-allocation within the shared NSI. These preliminary-defined rules enable the system to automatically and efficiently reallocate resources when CSIs are terminated or modified, ensuring optimal resource utilization without requiring ad-hoc decision-making, thus maintaining system flexibility through structured processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that monitor the status of CSIs and the utilization of the shared NSI. Based on this feedback, the system automatically triggers re-allocation procedures when necessary, ensuring that resources are continuously optimized while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing service requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. Embodiments herein disclose a network management apparatus, method, and computer-readable storage medium for or management of shared NSI in a communication system.