Virtual Core Network Traffic Segregation Across Shared MNO Datacenters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) face challenges in efficiently using datacenters due to the need to share virtual networks with multiple mobile network operators (MNOs) and segregate cloud computing and carrier traffic, leading to inefficiencies in traffic management and network utilization.

Innovation Solution

A communication system is developed that includes a datacenter with a virtual core network constructed using wireless communication facilities owned by multiple network operators, incorporating gateway means and computing means to manage and protect traffic, enabling efficient implementation of mobile communication functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a virtual core network is constructed within a datacenter to be shared among multiple MNOs, then the datacenter utilization efficiency is improved, but the complexity of managing multiple operators' traffic increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedatacenter utilization efficiencyVSAvoidtraffic management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments traffic management by introducing separate gateway means for each MNO and a distributing section that divides traffic from different operators into distinct pathways. This segmentation allows the virtual core network to handle multiple operators' traffic simultaneously while maintaining independent management control for each operator, thus resolving the contradiction between improved datacenter utilization and increased management complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces gateway means as intermediary components between the wireless communication facilities of multiple MNOs and the virtual core network. These gateways act as mediators that manage and route traffic from different operators, simplifying the overall management complexity while enabling efficient shared utilization of the datacenter resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If cloud computing and carrier core network traffic are accommodated concurrently in the same datacenter, then resource efficiency is improved, but traffic segregation between cloud and carrier traffic becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresource efficiencyVSAvoidtraffic segregation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments carrier traffic and cloud computing traffic into separate pathways within the datacenter. The distributing section divides incoming traffic based on its nature, routing carrier traffic through the virtual core network and cloud traffic through dedicated cloud service pathways. This segmentation maintains reliable traffic segregation while allowing both types of traffic to coexist efficiently in the same datacenter infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by providing different network environments for different traffic types within the same datacenter. Carrier traffic receives prioritized handling and specific quality of service guarantees through the virtual core network, while cloud computing traffic operates in a separate optimized environment. This allows each traffic type to have its specific requirements met while sharing the overall datacenter resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Quantity of substance

If an MVNO leases access network from MNOs to provide services, then infrastructure investment cost is reduced, but control over network performance and traffic management is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfrastructure investmentVSAvoidnetwork performance control
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal virtual core network infrastructure that can serve multiple MNOs simultaneously. The MVNO gains control over network performance and traffic management by utilizing this shared virtualized infrastructure, which provides multi-functional capabilities to handle different operators' requirements. This approach reduces infrastructure investment for the MVNO while restoring control over network performance through the virtualization layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the MVNO to self-manage its traffic and network performance through the virtualized core network interface. The gateway means and distributing section provide the MVNO with autonomous control capabilities over its traffic flows, allowing it to manage network performance without direct MNO intervention, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining the cost benefits of leasing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12520355B2Datacenter, communication apparatus, communication method, and communication control method in a communication system
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 NEC CORP
  • US12520355B2 patent drawing
  • US12520355B2 patent drawing
  • US12520355B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A datacenter, a communication apparatus, a communication method, and a communication control method in a communication system are provided that can enhance the versatility of a datacenter and a virtual network constructed therein. A communication system includes: a plurality of wireless communication facilities owned by a plurality of network operators, respectively; and a datacenter in which a virtual core network is constructed, wherein the virtual core network implements mobile communication functions by using the plurality of wireless communication facilities.