Methods and apparatus for managing network functions in a network core
US12206742B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 28, 2023 |
| Grant date | Jan 21, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 28, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F16/252
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A new type of Network Function (NF), referred to as Network Management Function (NMF), is introduced and included in communications network. The NMF implemented in accordance with some embodiments of the invention includes a Network Management Function database (NMFDB) including maintenance mode (MM) flag(s) and control logic for processing received messages from NFs, said control logic using the maintenance mode flag value information in determining which processing operations to perform. The NMF is placed between NFs, which are to be managed by the NMF, and a Network (function) Repository Function (NRF), which includes a typical NRF database which does not include any MM flags. By using the MM flags at the NMF, it is possible to centrally manage the traffic flow and use of individual instances of NFs in the network allowing instances of NFs to be easily taken in and out of service, e.g., as maintenance is required.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.