Use Case Overview & Description

The objective of this case is to develop an ONAP-based SON platform using the ONAP Optimization Framework (OOF). The use case focuses on the various information models and flows/interfaces between components to enable various SON functions to be realized. It also focuses on platform enhancements such as enhancements to the Control Loop framework (e.g., Control Loop Co-ordination, different types of targets for Control Loops, etc.), enabling ML-based SON, etc.

Use Case Key Information

BUSINESS DRIVER

Executive Summary

SON (Self-Organizing Networks) functionality is an essential part of existing 4G mobility networks, and will be even more critical for 5G. SON enables automation to improve network performance and efficiency, improve user experience, and reduce operational expenses and complexity. The objective of the OOF-SON (new name for OOF-PCI) use case is to develop an ONAP-based SON platform using the ONAP Optimization Framework (OOF). We have taken a phased approach since SON is complex, and SON for 5G is still evolving. We started with the Physical Cell Identity (PCI) optimization SON use case in Casablanca, then added some centralized Automated Neighbor Relations (ANR) aspects in Dublin. In Frankfurt, we addressed some enhancements such as basic CM-notify handling (as preparation for O-RAN alignment), adaptive SON, etc. In Guilin, we introduced use of AI/ML by onboarding an offline-trained ML-model to ONAP which will provide additional inputs to PCI optimization based on historical PM data, and stabilized the functionality in Honolulu. In Istanbul, we will align FM messages with relevant standards, move to new 3GPP NRM-based yang models and leverage CPS for RAN configuration.

Business Impact

SON is an essential feature in mobility networks, and relevant to every operator. Any ONAP-based network deployment for 5G will benefit from an ONAP-based SON solution, which provides a disaggregation of SON functions into modules aligned with the ONAP architecture. Operators and vendors will both benefit from the ability of vendors to bring best-in-class solutions to each module, while leveraging the benefits of a community-supported open platform. This will enable faster development of innovative solutions. The approach taken could very well be evolved to address SON use cases whose scope extends beyond just the RAN.

Business Markets

SON for 5G is relevant to all 5G operators and markets.

Funding/Financial Impacts

SON functions reduce Opex since the automated self-organizing functions are an efficient approach to continuously optimize network configurations to improve performance and respond to network conditions.

Organization Mgmt, Sales Strategies

There are no additional organizational management or sales strategies for this beyond whatever is required for ONAP deployment to support 5G.

Development Status

List of PTLs:Approved Projects

*Each Requirement should be tracked by its own User Story in JIRA 

USE CASE DIAGRAM

Use cases define how different users interact with a system under design.  Each use case represents an action that may be performed by a user (defined in UML as an Actor with a user persona).

Use Case Functional Definitions