Unified NSSMF GUI for Network Slice Onboarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of onboarding network slices in 5G networks is time-consuming and inefficient due to the need for separate configurations for each network domain and vendor, with existing mechanisms relying on different network slice subnet management function devices for each domain, leading to non-reusable configurations.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface (GUI) is provided for onboarding network slices, allowing for the configuration and registration of network slicing topologies, workflows, and bundles, which can be deployed across multiple network domains, enabling standardized and efficient setup processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate NSSMF devices are used for each network domain (RAN, CN, TN), then each domain can be configured independently, but the onboarding process becomes time-consuming and configurations are not reusable across vendors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate NSSMF devices into a single unified NSSMF that can manage multiple network domains (RAN, CN, TN) simultaneously. This consolidation allows a single configuration to be applied across all domains, eliminating the need for separate configuration processes for each domain while maintaining the ability to independently configure each domain when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified NSSMF device is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle configuration management across different network domains and for multiple network vendors. It provides universal configuration templates and workflows that can be reused across RAN, CN, and TN domains, as well as across different vendor equipment, thereby reducing onboarding time while preserving domain-specific customization options.
2Manufacturing precision
If vendor-specific configurations are used for each network domain, then configurations can be optimized for specific vendors, but the configurations cannot be reused for other vendors
Solution Approach 1:
The unified NSSMF implements vendor-agnostic configuration templates that can be universally applied across multiple network vendors. These templates are designed to accommodate different vendor-specific requirements while maintaining a standardized interface, allowing the same configuration to work across RAN, CN, and TN domains regardless of the vendor, thus achieving both precision and reusability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic parameter adjustment within configuration templates to adapt to different vendor requirements. The unified NSSMF can modify specific parameters based on the target vendor while maintaining the overall configuration structure, enabling the same base configuration to be reused across vendors with minimal customization through parameter changes rather than complete reconfiguration.
3Reliability
If multiple separate configurations are created for different network domains, then each domain can be optimized, but the overall onboarding process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple domain-specific configuration management functions into a single unified NSSMF interface. This unified interface presents a simplified view to users while internally managing the complexity of multiple domains. The system maintains domain-specific optimization capabilities through internal domain-aware processing while eliminating the need for users to manage separate configurations for each domain.
Solution Approach 2:
The unified NSSMF acts as an intermediary layer between the user and the multiple network domains. It abstracts the complexity of domain-specific configurations by providing a unified configuration interface that automatically translates high-level configuration requests into domain-specific settings. This intermediary function reduces user-facing complexity while preserving the ability to optimize each domain independently through automated domain-specific processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for onboarding a network slice associated with a wireless network includes providing an onboarding graphical user interface (GUI). The method further includes receiving, from the onboarding GUI, a network slicing topology that specifies one or more network nodes of the wireless network. The method further includes configuring, through the onboarding GUI based on information retrieved from one or more registration databases, the network slicing topology. The method further includes defining, through the onboarding GUI, one or more network slice workflows based on the configuring. The method further includes generating, through the onboarding GUI, a network slice bundle based on the one or more network slice workflows. The method further includes registering, through the onboarding GUI, the network slice bundle with the one or more registration databases for deployment of the network slice on the wireless network.