Page 128 - ITU-T Focus Group IMT-2020 Deliverables

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6.4 Work in-progress research projects

6.4.1 5G!Pagoda Project by Aalto University
5G!Pagoda represents the next evolution step in softwarized networks as supported by NFV, SDN and aimed
at by the 5G network evolution. The top objectives of 5G!Pagoda are i) the development of a scalable 5G
slicing architecture towards supporting specialized network slices composed on multi-vendor network
functions, through the development of ii) a scalable network slice management and orchestration framework
for distributed, edge dominated network infrastructures, and convergent software functionality for iii)
lightweight control plane and iv) data plane programmability and their integration, customization,
composition and run-time management towards different markets in Europe and Japan. 5G!Pagoda will
develop a coherent architecture enabling research and standardization coordination between Europe and
Japan. The proposed developments integrate with a common SDN/NFV based architecture and will
additionally provide punctual and highly important developments of the software network architecture. The
developments address the next steps of the evolution beyond the immediate NFV standardization and
developments, enabling the graceful integration within end-to-end network slices of various highly
customized software components, remotely controlling the data path, with specific network function
flexibility and network function placement support and easy to manage through a convergent set of scalable
orchestration APIs. Besides the technological aspects, 5G!Pagoda will develop a coherent proof of concept
with two playground nodes, one in Japan and one in Europe, using a uniform network orchestration and a
set of in-slice software features enabling the transparent exchange of knowledge and practical implemented
components for dynamic deployment and execution of virtual network functions and applications. The
testbed will allow practical demonstration of the functionality and will enable the development of an aligned
5G-oriented standardization roadmap for Japan and Europe

Figure 6.4.1-1 – Project Organization

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