OpenInfra in Imagine-B5G Open Call #2

OpenInfra is an IMAGINE-B5G platform extension proposed by the University of Patras that aims to integrate and enhance infrastructure operations associated with the Spanish facility. It enhances operational capabilities through a dedicated open-source standards-based portal, including large language model (LLM) framework functionalities. 

OpenInfra is designed for Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and end users who can authenticate and gain access to the Spanish Facility’s necessary resources, exposing its infrastructure capabilities via NOKIA’s Network as Code (NaC) and CAPIF as defined by 3GPP. 

OpenInfra will implement API translations using available libraries, enabling seamless interactions between different systems. The graphical user interface (GUI) extensions developed within OpenInfra will be integrated into OpenSlice, facilitating service order processes and catalogue exposure of NaC service specifications exposed via CAPIF. 

The proposed solution encompasses the following functionalities as initially requested by the open call of IMAGINEB5G:

• An invoker extension for monitoring CAPIF APIs 
• A NaC API translation extension for User management, SIM subscription handling, QoS allocations, application and reading of KPIs
• Integration with user access management
• Exposure of Spanish facility services through Standardised TMF APIs 
• Seamless GUI experience based on OpenSlice 
• LLM prototype integration

Impacts in IMAGINE B5G

• At the Management level:
  • The suggested extension addresses need and opportunities within the evolving infrastructure management landscape and complex API interactions between systems. OpenInfra’s enhancement aims to streamline these operations by integrating proprietary APIs and exposing the Spanish facility capabilities with open standards APIs. This is useful as telecommunications and infrastructures move towards more integrated, multi-vendor environments required by 5G and beyond. The development of our proposed GUI based on a well-known open-source project like OpenSlice and the integration of LLM functionalities into the latter is critical for simplifying the user experience and expanding the Spanish facility capabilities, given the ability to order services quickly and efficiently through a user-friendly, modern and AI-enabled interface.
• At the Societal level:
  • The open-source nature of OpenSlice and the enhancements introduced by OpenInfra make it an attractive platform for SMEs, CSPs and individual developers who may not have the resources to develop such complex and standard-based systems from scratch. Developers and IMAGINE-B5G experimenters can leverage the results of OpenInfra to build and test their applications, integrate with existing systems, and deploy scalable solutions without the overhead of further investments in integrations. By aligning with ETSI standards and implementing cutting-edge technology such as LLMs, the OpenInfra solution is an interoperable network automation solution augmented by advanced AI services.
• Technical level:
  • The API translation features and OpenSlice GUI enhancements facilitated by the OpenInfra project extension directly support the IMAGINE-B5G goal of fostering interoperable 5G solutions. This amplifies the ability of the Spanish facility to support a wider range of services, which is crucial for deploying flexible 5G networks that enable large-scale trials and experimentation. Moreover, by our proposal of integrating LLM enhancements, OpenInfra can provide advanced decision-making and automation capabilities, thus aligning with the need for smart, AI-driven solutions within 5G infrastructures, as highlighted in various use-cases within the call text, such as automated network optimization and predictive maintenance. The development of a GUI for service ordering through TMF open APIs, simultaneously leveraging CAPIF interactions, elevates user experience and accessibility, making it easier for various stakeholders to engage with 5G services.
• In Vertical Area(s):
  • By actively contributing to ETSI standards, the extensions developed in OpenInfra ensure that the Spanish facility and the IMAGINE-B5G platform, as a whole, remain relevant and adhere to industry standards. Leveraging an open-source development model encourages collaboration and continuous improvement of the platform, allowing developers to contribute and enhance its features and stability. The open-source approach reduces development costs and fosters a community of developers who can sustain and improve the platform beyond the original project timeline.

This project has already started its work in the IMAGINE-B5G second open call. If you want to learn more about this and the other selected projects, stay tuned to our website and our social media channels.