VNF Relocation via KPI Feedback in SDN
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network Function Virtualization (NFV) Software Defined Networks (SDNs) lack effective control mechanisms for relocating Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) due to inadequate utilization of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Innovation Solution
A data communication system that includes a Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) executing SDN VNFs and transferring KPIs to a Management and Orchestration (MANO) computer, which processes these KPIs to determine tasks such as VNF relocation, off-boarding, darkening, or on-boarding, and implements the necessary control data to perform these tasks within the NFVI.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If NFV SDN systems execute VNFs without effective KPI utilization, then system operation is simple, but VNF relocation control effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where KPIs are continuously collected from the NFV infrastructure, processed by the MANO system, and used to dynamically adjust VNF placement decisions. The MANO system monitors performance metrics and feeds this information back to make informed relocation decisions, creating a closed-loop control system that improves VNF relocation effectiveness while managing complexity through systematic feedback processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The MANO system acts as an intermediary between the NFV infrastructure and the VNF control mechanisms. It collects KPIs from the infrastructure, processes this information, and generates control decisions for VNF relocation. This intermediary layer manages the complexity by centralizing the KPI processing and decision-making logic, preventing the complexity from propagating throughout the entire system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If NFV SDN systems implement comprehensive VNF control mechanisms, then VNF relocation effectiveness improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The MANO system is designed as a universal control platform that handles multiple VNF control functions including relocation, scaling, and lifecycle management. By creating a multi-functional control system, the patent avoids the complexity of having separate specialized control mechanisms for each VNF operation. The universal MANO system processes KPIs and makes diverse control decisions through a unified architecture, improving adaptability while managing complexity through functional consolidation.
3Productivity
If KPIs are not effectively utilized for VNF relocation, then system operation is straightforward, but resource allocation optimization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback loops where KPI information is continuously collected from the NFV infrastructure, analyzed by the MANO system, and used to make real-time VNF relocation decisions. This feedback mechanism ensures that KPI information is not lost but actively utilized to optimize resource allocation. The MANO system processes performance metrics and feeds this information back into the VNF placement decisions, creating a dynamic optimization process that improves productivity while preventing information loss.
Data Source
AI summary
A data communication system controls Software Defined Network (SDN) Virtual Network Functions (VNFs). A Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) executes the SDN VNFs and responsively transfers SDN Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to a Management and Orchestration (MANO) computer. The MANO computer processes the SDN KPIs from the NFVI to determine an NFVI task to perform for the SDN VNFs. The NFVI task comprises at least one of: SDN VNF relocation, SDN VNF off-boarding, SDN VNF darkening, SDN VNF lightening, and SDN VNF on-boarding. The MANO computer transfers NFVI control data indicating the NFVI task to the NFVI. The NFVI performs the NFVI task for the SDN VNFs responsive to the NFV control data.