VNF Onboarding via Segmented VNFC Element Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current Network Function Virtualization (NFV) architectures lack efficient lifecycle management of Virtual Network Function Components (VNFCs) composed of independently manageable software elements, as existing management methods target entire VNFC virtual machines or containers, failing to address faults effectively in individual software elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method for onboarding Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) that include multiple VNFCs, using VNF Descriptors and VNFC Element Descriptors to manage and deploy software elements independently, allowing for lifecycle management operations such as deployment, scaling, and maintenance of individual software components within a VNF package.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If lifecycle management commands target entire VNFC VM/container, then management simplicity is improved, but fault management effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the VNFC management into two levels: the VNFC itself (managed as a unit) and its internal software elements (managed individually). This allows lifecycle management commands to target the entire VNFC VM/container for operational simplicity, while simultaneously enabling granular management of individual software elements for effective fault isolation and resolution. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by operating at different management granularities simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary management layer that sits between the lifecycle management system and the software elements within VNFCs. This intermediary enables the system to issue commands to entire VNFCs while also providing the capability to target specific software elements when faults occur. The intermediary translates high-level management intents into appropriate granular actions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and effectiveness.
2Device complexity
If VNFCs are managed as single units, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability for independent software element management deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by maintaining a hierarchical view where VNFCs are managed as units but are composed of identifiable software elements. This structure reduces device complexity by providing a clear management boundary at the VNFC level while simultaneously enabling adaptability by allowing individual software elements to be targeted when needed. The segmentation principle resolves the contradiction by operating at multiple levels of abstraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic management capabilities that allow the system to adapt its management granularity based on operational needs. When normal operation occurs, the system manages VNFCs as single units for simplicity. When faults or maintenance needs arise, the system dynamically adapts to manage individual software elements within the VNFC. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between fixed complexity and flexible management.
3Ease of repair
If maintenance targets entire VNFC, then ease of repair is improved, but service impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the maintenance capability into two modes: VNFC-level maintenance for simplicity and software element-level maintenance for minimal service impact. By maintaining the ability to target individual software elements within a VNFC, the system can perform maintenance on only the affected component rather than the entire VNFC. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling appropriate granularity selection based on the maintenance need.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the capability to manage individual software elements from the VNFC management framework. This extraction allows maintenance operations to be performed on specific software elements independently of the rest of the VNFC. By taking out this granular management capability, the system can perform targeted maintenance that minimizes service impact while maintaining ease of repair through the established management interface.
Data Source
AI summary
The instant solution includes at least one element or action described or depicted herein.