SON Objective Manager Automates Network Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current Self-Organizing Networks (SON) systems require manual adaptation of configuration parameters, which is labor-intensive and inefficient, failing to align network behavior with operator objectives effectively.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a SON Objective Manager that automatically derives and maps operator objectives to SON Function Configuration Parameter Values, using standardized interfaces and models to dynamically configure SON Functions and adapt network behavior.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If manual adaptation of SON Functions is performed, then configuration parameters can be adjusted to meet operator needs, but considerable effort and extensive operational knowledge are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability of SON FunctionsVSAvoidease of configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing SON Functions to automatically adapt their configuration parameters based on operator objectives. The SON Function uses its built-in model and the objective information to autonomously determine optimal parameter values without requiring manual intervention from operators, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary component that receives operator objectives and translates them into configuration parameters for SON Functions. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator between high-level operator goals and low-level technical parameters, automating the translation process and eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust complex configuration settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If default configuration parameter values are used, then SON Functions can be deployed quickly, but they cannot be adapted to individual operator objectives

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment speedVSAvoidcustomization capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamics by enabling configuration parameters to change automatically based on operator objectives. Instead of static default values, the SON Function dynamically adjusts parameters according to the specific objectives provided by the operator, allowing both quick deployment (using defaults as starting point) and subsequent customization (through automatic adaptation).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies parameter changes by automatically modifying configuration parameters based on operator objectives. The SON Function receives objective information and automatically changes its internal parameters to match the desired behavior, enabling customization without manual intervention while maintaining fast deployment capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual adaptation of SON Functions is performed, then specific operator objectives can be met, but the process is labor-intensive and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment with operator objectivesVSAvoidconfiguration efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual process with an automated information processing system. Instead of operators manually analyzing objectives and adjusting parameters (a mechanical human-in-the-loop process), the system uses automated translation mechanisms that convert operator objectives directly into configuration parameters, dramatically improving productivity while maintaining alignment with objectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediary component automates the translation from operator objectives to configuration parameters, eliminating the labor-intensive manual process. This mediator handles the complex mapping automatically, allowing operators to simply provide high-level objectives while the system efficiently generates the appropriate configuration settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11012307B2Network entity and method for controlling a son-function
Publication Date: 2021.05.18 NOKIA SOLUTIONS & NETWORKS OY
  • US11012307B2 patent drawing
  • US11012307B2 patent drawing
  • US11012307B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a network entity installed in a network comprising an operator objective interface for receiving operator objectives; a SON-Function model interface for receiving at least a first SON Function Model, wherein the network entity is adapted to link the operator objectives with the first SON-Function model in order to adapt a SON Function for influencing a network behavior. Moreover the invention relates to a method for automatic controlling of at least one SON Function.