Dynamic Virtualized Network Function Descriptor Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Network Function Virtualization (NFV) systems have statically defined Virtual Network Function (VNF) descriptors, which do not allow for dynamic updates of VNF parameters, limiting flexibility and adaptability in reflecting changes to VNF instances.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a VNF descriptor format with subfields such as write-ability, access permission, and constraints allows management entities to determine and dynamically update VNF parameters, enabling dynamic configuration and quota management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If VNF descriptors are statically defined, then system stability and simplicity are maintained, but flexibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The VNF descriptor is segmented into multiple sub-fields including static fields and dynamic fields (such as write-ability, access permission, and constraints sub-fields). This segmentation allows the descriptor to maintain a structured format while enabling selective dynamic updates of specific parameters without requiring complete descriptor redefinition, thus resolving the contradiction between flexibility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic sub-fields within the VNF descriptor structure that can be updated in real-time based on operational conditions. These dynamic elements (write-ability flags, access permissions, constraints) allow the descriptor to transition from a static to a dynamic state, enabling adaptability while maintaining overall structural integrity through standardized update mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If VNF parameters are dynamically updateable, then real-time adjustments and adaptability are improved, but system complexity and management overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing different update permissions and access controls for different sub-fields of the VNF descriptor. Specific parameters can be marked with write-ability flags and access permissions that allow selective dynamic updates only where needed, rather than allowing universal modification. This localized approach to dynamicity reduces management complexity by limiting update operations to specific, authorized parameters while maintaining real-time adaptability where required.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic VNF descriptor implementation includes feedback mechanisms through access permission checks and constraint validations that automatically prevent unauthorized or invalid updates. This feedback system manages complexity by providing automated control logic that guides update operations, ensuring that real-time adjustments are made safely without requiring complex manual management procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If VNF descriptor structure is extended with sub-fields for dynamic updates, then functionality is improved, but processing overhead and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining the structure of dynamic sub-fields (write-ability, access permission, constraints) within the VNF descriptor template. This preliminary structuring allows the system to prepare for dynamic updates in advance, with all necessary validation rules and access controls already in place. When dynamic updates are needed, the processing time is reduced because the framework is already established, avoiding the need for complex runtime structural negotiations.
Data Source
AI summary
A Virtual Network Function Descriptor (VNFD) parameter may include subfields that allow a management entity to determine whether the VNFD parameter can be updated. The subfields may include a write-ability subfield that indicates whether the VNFD parameter is a dynamic/configurable VNFD parameter or a fixed/static VNFD parameter. The VNFD parameter may also include an access permission subfield that indicates which entities are authorized to modify/update the VNFD parameter. The VNFD parameter may also include an administrative priority subfield that indicates a priority of an entity that set an attribute of the VNFD parameter. The VNFD parameter may also include a constraints subfield that indicates one or more conditions that are required to occur in order for the VNFD parameter to be updated.