CN118044290A

CN118044290A - Status notification for access networks for time sensitive communications

Info

Publication number: CN118044290A
Application number: CN202180102363.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: B·盖伊克; D·钱德拉莫利; R·西瓦西瓦·加尼森; 晁华
Original assignee: Nokia Shanghai Bell Co Ltd; Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy
Current assignee: Nokia Shanghai Bell Co Ltd; Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy
Priority date: 2021-09-16
Filing date: 2021-09-16
Publication date: 2024-05-14
Also published as: WO2023039782A1

Abstract

Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods, apparatus and computer-readable storage media for status notification of access networks for time-sensitive communications. In an example embodiment, a first network device in a cellular communication network receives a notification indicating that a first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for a session. The first network device then transmits one of: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

Description

Status notification for access networks for time sensitive communications

Technical Field

Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of communications and, in particular, relate to a method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for status notification of an access network for time-sensitive communications.

Background

Delay is a key performance indicator of communications. Time Sensitive Communications (TSC) provide low latency and support various Time Sensitive Network (TSN) configuration models, such as a fully centralized configuration model, a fully distributed configuration model, and a centralized and/or distributed model. A fifth generation system (5 GS) may be integrated into the TSN network as a TSN bridge to assist the TSC.

Due to the dynamic nature of the Radio Access Network (RAN) of 5GS, at some point in time the RAN may no longer be able to support the already guaranteed quality of service (QoS). In this case, the RAN may report its capability to support a certain QoS to the Core Network (CN) of 5GS, in particular that it cannot meet a certain QoS. However, there is no remedy for the change of RAN status in 5GS and/or TSN networks.

Disclosure of Invention

In general, example embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, apparatus, and computer-readable storage media for dynamic communication configuration for subnet communications.

In a first aspect, a method is provided. In the method, a first network device in a cellular communication network receives a notification indicating that a first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for a session. The first network device then transmits one of: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

In a second aspect, a method is provided. In the method, a first access network device in a cellular communication network sends a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service target for a session. The first access network device then performs actions comprising: the dual connectivity is activated in response to receiving a third indication to activate the dual connectivity in the session, or access network resources are released in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session.

In a third aspect, a method is provided. In the method, the second network device receives a notification from a first network device in the cellular communication network, the notification indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for the session. The second network device then determines that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated time-sensitive network flow (AGGREGATED TIME SENSITIVE networking streams) associated with the session. Further, the second network device performs an action comprising one of: a request is sent for the first network device to release resources for the session or to re-aggregate the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and a plurality of quality of service targets is provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

In a fourth aspect, an apparatus implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to receive a notification indicating that a first access network device in a cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for a session. The apparatus is further caused to transmit one of: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

In a fifth aspect, an apparatus implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to transmit a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service target for the session. The apparatus is also caused to perform actions comprising: the dual connectivity is activated in response to receiving a third indication to activate the dual connectivity in the session, or access network resources are released in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session.

In a sixth aspect, an apparatus implemented at a second network device is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to receive a notification from a first network device in the cellular communication network, the notification indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for the session. The apparatus is also caused to determine that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated time-sensitive network flow associated with the session. The apparatus is also caused to perform an action comprising one of: a request is sent for the first network device to release resources for the session or to re-aggregate the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and a plurality of quality of service targets is provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

In a seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising means for performing the method according to the first, second or third aspects.

In an eighth aspect, a computer readable storage medium is provided, the computer readable storage medium including program instructions stored thereon. The instructions, when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform a method according to the first, second or third aspect.

It should be understood that the summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the example embodiments of the disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description.

Drawings

Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1A shows a procedure of an establishment procedure of an Application Function (AF) session;

FIG. 1B illustrates a process of updating an AF session;

FIG. 2A illustrates an example environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented;

fig. 2B illustrates interactions between a first access network device and a first network device for dual connection establishment, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Fig. 2C illustrates interactions between a first access network device, a first network device, and a second network device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 3 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for a first network device, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 4 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for a first access network device, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Fig. 5 illustrates a flowchart of an example method for a second network device, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Fig. 6 illustrates a process of triggering activation of dual connectivity based on notification of a first access network device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Fig. 7 illustrates a process of establishing a session at a second network device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

Fig. 8 illustrates a procedure for PDU session modification in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

Fig. 9 shows a simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing example embodiments of the present disclosure.

The same or similar reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements.

Detailed Description

Principles of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It should be understood that these example embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and practicing the present disclosure without placing any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein may be implemented in a variety of ways other than those described below.

In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

As used herein, the term "access network device" refers to a device via which services may be provided to terminal devices in a cellular communication network. Examples of access network devices include repeaters, access Points (APs), transmission points (TRPs), node bs (nodebs or NB), evolved nodebs (eNodeB or eNB), new Radio (NR) nodebs (gNB), remote radio modules (RRU), radio Headers (RH), remote Radio Heads (RRHs), low power nodes (such as femto, pico), etc. For purposes of discussion, some example embodiments will be described by taking a base station as an example of an access network device.

As used herein, the term "terminal device" refers to any device capable of wirelessly communicating with each other or with access network devices. Communication may involve the transmission and/or reception of wireless signals using electromagnetic signals, radio waves, infrared signals, and/or other types of signals suitable for conveying information over the air. Examples of the terminal device may include a User Equipment (UE). In some example embodiments, the UE may be configured to transmit and/or receive information without direct human interaction. For example, the UE may transmit information to the base station according to a predetermined schedule, when triggered by an internal or external event, or in response to a request from the network side.

As used herein, in some example embodiments, the term "network device" refers to a device that is capable of communicating with access network devices and providing services to terminal devices in a core network. Examples of core network devices may include User Plane Functions (UPFs), application servers, mobile Switching Centers (MSCs), MMEs, operations and management (O & M) nodes, operations Support System (OSS) nodes, self-organizing network (SON) nodes, positioning nodes such as enhanced services mobile positioning centers (E-SMLCs), mobile Data Terminals (MDTs), public control network functions (CCNF), access and mobility management functions (AMFs), session Management Functions (SMFs), and/or Policy Control Functions (PCFs).

As used herein, in some other examples, the term "network device" refers to a device of a TSN network for communicating with a cellular communication network of a TSC. For example, the network device may be a TSN Application Function (AF) and a Centralized Network Controller (CNC). The network device may be an internal or external device of a cellular communication network.

As used herein, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

(a) Hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in analog and/or digital circuitry only), and

(B) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (as applicable):

(i) Combination of analog and/or digital hardware circuit(s) and software/firmware, and

(Ii) Any portion of the hardware processor(s) (including digital signal processor (s)), software, and memory(s) having software that work together to cause a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions, and

(C) Hardware circuit(s) and/or processor(s), such as microprocessor(s) or a portion of microprocessor(s), that require software (e.g., firmware)

The operation is performed, but when the software is not required to perform the operation, the software may not exist.

This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this disclosure, the term circuitry also encompasses hardware-only circuits or processors (or multiple processors) or portions of hardware circuits or processes and their attendant software and/or firmware implementations. For example, and if applicable to the particular claim elements, the term circuitry also encompasses a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular base station, or other computing or base station.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "comprising" and variants thereof should be understood as open-ended terms, meaning "including, but not limited to. The term "based on" should be understood as "based at least in part on". The terms "one embodiment" and "an embodiment" should be understood as "at least one embodiment". The term "another embodiment" should be understood as "at least one other embodiment". Other explicit and implicit definitions may be included below.

In third generation partnership project (3 GPP) release 16 (Rel-16), the fully centralized configuration model is supported by TSCs specified in institute of Electrical and electronics Engineers standards (IEEE STD) 802.1Q-2018. In this model, a 5GS functional architecture may be integrated into the TSN network as a TSN bridge to support time sensitive traffic flows. A Centralized Network Controller (CNC) provides port gate timing information to the 5GS TSN bridge according to IEEE 802.1Qbv specified in IEEE STD 802.1Q-2018. In 3GPP Rel-16, port and bridge management information may be exchanged between CNC and TSN AF, for example, as specified in 3GPP TS 23.501.

The exposed extension of QoS for TSCs is under discussion in 3 GPP. The current 3GPP exposure framework (e.g., as specified in 3GPP ts 23.502) allows the AF to request a certain QoS from the 5GS, and if the request from the AF can be satisfied, the 5GS should provide feedback. According to current 3GPP standardization, feedback to the AF may be based on configured policies at the PCF.

For example, according to the framework, the AF may send a QoS request to the 5GS to reserve resources for the AF session. In such a request, the AF indicates QoS parameters that the 5GS should satisfy. Optionally, the AF may also indicate an alternative service requirement (including one or more QoS reference parameters in order of priority) in the request.

The request may be sent to a Network Exposure Function (NEF). The NEF grants the request from the AF and interacts with the Policy Control Function (PCF) by providing QoS information requested by the AF. If the NEF receives any individual QoS parameters from the AF, such as burst arrival time, flow direction and period, time-to-live and flow direction, and time domain, as described in 3gpp TS 23.503 section 6.1.3.22, the NEF forwards these received individual QoS parameters to the TSC time sensitive function in a Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create request message (TSCTSF). Then TSCTSF further interacts with the PCF.

The PCF determines whether such a request from the AF is authorized and derives the required QoS parameters based on the information provided by the NEF and determines whether the QoS is allowed (e.g., according to the PCF configuration for the AF). The PCF informs the NEF of the result, either directly or via TSCTSF. Based on this feedback from the PCF, the NEF informs the AF of the success of its request. The NEF may send Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _create response message (transaction reference (Transaction Reference) ID, result) to the AF, with the field "result" indicating whether the request was granted (granted).

The PCF may determine whether the requested QoS may be granted based on its policy and subscription information of the UE, and send feedback on the result of the grant to the AF via the NEF. If the request from the AF additionally indicates requirements for 5GS delay, TSC burst size, guaranteed stream bit rate (GFBR) and/or time domain or traffic mode parameters such as stream direction, burst arrival time and burst period at UE (uplink) or UPF (downlink), the feedback sent from the PCF and forwarded by the NEF to the AF for TSC QoS may include newly allocated parameter values for these requirements if the current values of the parameters do not meet the request.

The establishment procedure of an AF session according to the framework will be discussed below with reference to fig. 1A.

In process 100 as shown in fig. 1A, at 102, AF 101 sends a request to NEF 103 to reserve resources for an AF session in Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _create request message. At 104, NEF 103 grants the request. If the AF 101 does not provide individual QoS parameters (such as burst arrival time, time-to-live, flow direction, period, and time domain), then the NEF 103 may interact directly with the PCF 105 by providing the QoS information requested by the AF 101 in the Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create request message at 106. Alternatively, if AF 101 provides any individual QoS parameters, then, at 108, NEF 103 forwards these received individual QoS parameters to TSCTSF 107 in Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create request message.

At 110 TSCTSF 107 interacts with PCF 105 in a Npcf _ PolicyAuthorzation _create request message. PCF 105 then determines whether such a request from AF 101 is authorized and derives the required QoS parameters based on the information provided by NEF 103 and determines whether the QoS is allowed (according to the PCF configuration for that AF 103). Further, in the event that AF 101 does not provide individual QoS parameters, PCF 105 sends the result directly to NEF 103 in Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create response message at 112. Alternatively, where AF 101 provides any individual QoS parameters, PCF 105 sends the result to TSCTSF 107 in Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create response message at 114.

Then, at 116, TSCTSF 107 forwards the result to NEF 103 in a Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create response message. Based on this feedback from PCF 105, NEF 103 informs AF 101 of the success of its request in Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _create response at 118. In the event that AF 101 does not provide individual QoS parameters, NEF 103 sends Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _subscnibe message to PCF 105 at 120 to Subscribe to notifications of resource allocation status and other optional events. Alternatively, where AF 101 provides any individual QoS parameters, TSCTSF 107 sends a Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _subscribe message to PCF 105 at 122 to Subscribe to notifications of resource allocation status and other optional events.

Accordingly, in the event that the AF 101 does not provide individual QoS parameters, at 124, when the event condition is satisfied, the PCF 105 may send Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _notify message to the NEF 103 to Notify the corresponding event. Alternatively, where AF 101 provides any individual QoS parameters, PCF 105 may send Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _notify message to TSCTSF 107 to Notify the corresponding event when the event condition is met at 126. Then, at 128 TSCTSF 107 sends a Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _notify message with the event reported by PCF 105 to NEF 103. At 130, NEF 103 sends Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _notify message with the event reported by PCF 105 to AF 101.

Furthermore, for an established AF session with the required QoS, the AF may request an updated QoS from 5GS via the NEF. Fig. 1B shows a process 140 for updating an AF session with a required QoS update procedure.

Similar to the AF session establishment procedure discussed above with reference to fig. 1A, in procedure 140 as shown in fig. 1B, PCF 105 derives the required QoS parameters based on the information provided by NEF 103 or TSCTSF 107 and determines whether the QoS is allowed (according to the PCF policy for the AF 101). PCF 105 may then notify NEF 103 of the result, either directly or via TSCTSF 107,107, so that AF 101 may be notified of the success of its request.

In conventional approaches, the PCF may perform a feasibility check on the QoS request from the AF, e.g., by checking whether the requested QoS can be guaranteed by the entire 5GS (including CN and RAN) and aligned with the UE subscription. The PCF may also consider the RAN's ability to provide services for the requested QoS and reserve resources for the requested QoS. The corresponding feasibility check result is fed back to the TSN AF and the AF can process it and provide additional feedback to the CNC.

In the case where the 5GS acts as a bridge to support a distributed configuration mode of the TSN network, the AF may determine, based on configuration and/or feedback from the PCF, that the 5GS may support transmission of a current flow, which may be mapped to one or more QoS flows served by the 5 GS. However, the ability of the RAN to service traffic flows may vary over time. At some point in time, the RAN may no longer support the already guaranteed QoS. In this case, the RAN may reject the corresponding QoS due to the fact that the available resources of the RAN are small, resulting in that the 5GS cannot support streaming. Furthermore, once the resource status of the RAN changes, e.g., more resources are available in the RAN, the RAN can again support a particular QoS and streaming.

In a fully distributed model, the change in RAN state may need to be notified to the TSN AF for a resource update to handle, or in a fully centralized model, the change in RAN state may need to be notified to the TSN AF and subsequently to the CNC. In the distributed configuration mode, if the latest information on the actual QoS provided by the RAN for a given session is not provided to the TSN AF, the TSN AF will not perform dynamic adaptation of the traffic flow.

Conventionally, if the AF requests the PCF to report when the RAN no longer (or may again) meets the QoS target of the QoS flow, the PCF may set a QoS Notification Control (QNC) parameter in the Policy and Charging Control (PCC) rules of the QoS flow. Accordingly, a Session Management Function (SMF) may enable notification control for changes in RAN state based on parameters regarding notification control in corresponding PCC rules (received from the PCF). However, it may be desirable to automatically notify the TSN AF of the change in RAN status (especially in a fully distributed model).

Furthermore, there is currently no remedy for dynamic feedback of the ability of the RAN to support the specific QoS requested by the AF to improve TSC. Furthermore, feedback on RAN capabilities is not reflected in the behavior of TSN AF to improve integration between 5GS and TSN networks. This is particularly important in a fully distributed model.

In one aspect, some example embodiments of the present disclosure provide a scheme for activating dual connectivity in a session based on a notification that an access network device cannot meet a QoS target for the session in a cellular communication network. For example, the cellular communication network may be 5GS and the access network device may be a RAN device such as a base station.

In this scheme, after a first network device in a cellular communication network receives a notification indicating that an access network device cannot meet a QoS target of a session, the first network device sends an indication to add a new QoS flow for the session to enable the access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session. The first network device may be physically integrated into the access network device or separate from the access network device. For example, the first network device may be a core network device of a cellular communication network, such as a PCF, or a function or entity physically integrated into the access network device and implementing management or control functions for the access network device.

The establishment of dual connectivity will ensure the achievement of QoS objectives that 5GS could not have previously met. Therefore, communication quality and efficiency can be improved, and communication delay can be reduced.

In another aspect, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an additional scheme for adapting behavior in both cellular network devices and TSN networks in response to an access network device failing to meet QoS objectives of a session.

In this scenario, after the second network device obtains a notification indicating that an access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet the QoS target of the session, the second network device determines that the access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated TSN flow associated with the session. Further, the second network device sends a request to the first network device in the cellular communication network to release resources for the session. Accordingly, the first network device sends an indication for releasing access network resources associated with the session to enable the access network device to release the associated access resources.

Alternatively, after the second network device determines that the access network device does not support traffic characteristics of the aggregated TSN streams, the second network device reassembles the plurality of TSN streams. The second network device then provides a plurality of QoS targets corresponding to the plurality of reassembled time-sensitive network flows to the first network device.

The second network device may be located inside or outside the cellular communication network. For example, the second network device may be a TSN AF within the cellular communication network, or external to the cellular communication network and provided by a third party.

According to these example embodiments of the present disclosure, the behavior of the second network device as well as the cellular network device may be adapted based on the notification that the access network device cannot meet the QoS target of the session, thereby improving the communication efficiency and resource utilization of the TSC.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example environment 200 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented.

As shown, the environment 200, which is part of a communication network, includes a terminal device 201 and an access network device (referred to as a first access network device) 203 in a cellular communication network 204. In this example, the cellular communication network 204 further comprises a further access network device (called second access network device) 205 for providing dual connectivity for the terminal device 201 together with the first access network device 203.

The environment 200 also includes a network device 207 (referred to as a first network device 207) and another network device 209 (referred to as a second network device 207). As shown, the first network device 207 is located in the cellular communication network 204 and acts as an intermediary device between the first access network device 203 and the second network device 209. The first network device 207 may be connected to the first access network device 203 directly or indirectly via one or more other devices or functions. Similarly, the connection between the first network device 207 and the second network device 209 may be direct or indirect.

For example, in environment 200, first network device 207 is shown physically separate from first access network device 203. For example, the first network device 207 may be implemented by a core network device of the cellular communication network 204, such as a PCF. In an example embodiment where first network device 207 is implemented by a PCF, first network device 207 may communicate with first access network device 203 via an SMF. The first network device 207 may also be implemented by a core network device that may communicate directly with the first access network device 203.

In some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may be physically integrated into the first access network device 203 and, for example, implemented as a function or entity physically integrated into the first access network device 203. In this case, the first network device 207 may communicate with the first access network device 203 through internal cabling.

In fig. 2A, for example, the second network device 209 is shown as being external to the cellular communication network 204. In this case, the second network device 209 may be a device provided by a third party. In some example embodiments, the second network device 209 may be located within the cellular communication network 204. In the distributed configuration mode, the second network device 209 may be implemented by a TSN AF. In an example embodiment where the second network device 209 is implemented by a TSN AF and the first network device 207 is implemented by a PCF, the second network device 209 may communicate with the first network device 207 via a NEF or TSCTSF. In the TSN centralized configuration mode, the second network device 209 may also be a CNC, or the second network device 209 may be any other suitable device capable of TSC communication with the first network device 207.

Communication between individual devices or functions in environment 200 may follow any suitable communication standard or protocol that is already present or will be developed in the future. The scope of the present disclosure will not be limited in this respect.

It should be understood that the devices or functions illustrated in environment 200 are for illustrative purposes only and are not presented in any way as limitations. Environment 200 may include any other suitable device, element, or function for providing a TSC. For example, there may be one or more intermediate devices between the first access network device 203 and the first network device 207 and/or between the first network device 207 and the TSN AF 209.

According to some example embodiments of the present disclosure, the dual connectivity is activated in the session based on a notification indicating that the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target of the session. The session may be a Packet Data Unit (PDU) session between the terminal device 201 and a User Plane Function (UPF) in the user plane. For example, if the first network device 207 receives a notification indicating that the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target of the session, the first network device 207 sends an indication (referred to as a first indication) for adding a new QoS flow for the session to enable the first access network device 203 to activate dual connectivity in the session. Accordingly, the first access network device 203 activates dual connectivity in the session.

According to some example embodiments of the present disclosure, the behavior of the second network device 209 and the first network device 207 is adapted based on a notification indicating the first access network device 203's ability to achieve QoS targets for the session. For example, the second network device 209 receives a notification from the first network device 207 indicating that the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target of the session. In an example embodiment where the second network device 209 is implemented by TSN AF, the session may be an AF session from the perspective of the second network device 209. Based on the notification, the second network device 209 determines that the first access network device 203 does not support traffic characteristics of the aggregated TSN stream associated with the session. Further, the second network device 209 sends a request for the first network device 207 to release resources for the session. Accordingly, the first network device 207 sends an indication (referred to as a second indication) for releasing access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device 203 to release access network resources.

Alternatively, after the second network device 209 determines that the first access network device 203 does not support traffic characteristics for the aggregated TSN streams associated with the session, the second network device 209 re-aggregates the plurality of TSN streams. The second network device 209 then provides a plurality of QoS targets corresponding to the plurality of reassembled TSN streams to the first network device 207. In an example embodiment where the second network device 209 is implemented by a TSN AF, for example, the second network device 209 may immediately send a notification to the CNC upon detecting that the QoS target is not met before re-aggregating the plurality of TSN flows, and then receive a reconfiguration from the CNC for routing and scheduling the plurality of TSN flows.

High-level interactions between devices and functions in environment 200 will be discussed below with reference to fig. 2B and 2C, where fig. 2B illustrates interactions between first access network device 203 and first network device 207 for dual connection establishment according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure, and fig. 2C illustrates interactions between first access network device 203, first network device 207, and second network device 209 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the example embodiment shown in fig. 2B and 2C, the first access network device 203 is implemented by the RAN device 211, the first network device 207 is implemented by the PCF 213, and the second network device 209 is implemented by the TSN AF 215. RAN device 211 and PCF 213 communicate via SMF 217, and PCF 213 and TSN AF 215 communicate via NEF 219.

Reference is first made to fig. 2B. In process 221, as shown in fig. 2B, after RAN device 211 determines that the QoS target of the session cannot be met, RAN device 211 sends (223) a notification to SMF 217 indicating that RAN device 211 cannot meet the QoS target. The SMF 217 then forwards 225 the notification to the PCF 213.

After PCF 213 receives (227) the notification, PCF 213 sends (229) a first indication to add a new QoS flow for the session. The first indication may be implemented in any suitable form. In some example embodiments, the first indication may be an indication to trigger a session modification to add a new QoS flow.

After the SMF 217 receives (231) the first indication, the SMF 217 sends (233) an indication (referred to as a third indication) to the RAN device 211 for activating the dual connectivity in the session. For example, the third indication may be an indication of a redundant sequence number for enabling dual connectivity. After the RAN device 211 receives (235) the third indication, the RAN device 211 activates (237) the dual connectivity in the session. For example, the RAN device 211 may select another RAN device for providing dual connectivity in a session based on the QoS target.

Next, referring to fig. 2C, in process 239, PCF 213 sends (241) a notification to TSN AF215 via NEF 219 indicating that RAN device 211 cannot meet the QoS target of the session. From the perspective of TSN AF215, the session is an AF session. After TSN AF215 receives (243) the notification, TSN AF215 determines (245) that RAN device 211 does not support traffic characteristics of the aggregated TSN flows associated with the session. TSN AF215 then sends (247), via NEF 219, a request to PCF 213 to release resources for the session.

In response to the request, PCF 213 sends (249), via SMF 217, to RAN apparatus 211 a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session. For example, the second indication may be implemented as an indication for triggering Session Management (SM) policy association termination to release access network resources.

Thus, the RAN device 211 receives 251 an indication (referred to as a fourth indication) for releasing access network resources associated with the session. The fourth indication may or may not be the same as the second indication transmitted by PCF 213. The RAN device 211 then releases 253 the corresponding access network resources.

In some example embodiments, instead of sending a request for PCF 213 to release resources for the session, TSN AF215 reassembles the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and provides PCF 213 with a plurality of QoS targets corresponding to the plurality of reassembled TSN flows. PCF 213 may then update the QoS request for the session. For example, before re-aggregating multiple TSN flows, once TSN AF215 detects that the QoS target is not met, it may immediately send (255) a notification to CNC 210 and then receive (257) a reconfiguration from CNC 210 for routing and scheduling the multiple TSN flows.

Fig. 3 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 300 for a first network device 207 according to some example embodiments of the disclosure. For discussion purposes, the method 300 will be described with reference to FIG. 2A.

At block 310, the first network device 207 receives a notification indicating that the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target of the session. In an example embodiment where the first access network device 203 is implemented by a RAN device and the first network device 207 is implemented by a PCF, the first network device 207 may receive the notification from the first access network device 203 via an SMF. In some other example embodiments, the first network device 207 may interact with the first access network device 203 and receive notifications directly from the first access network device 203. For example, the session may be a PDU session for communication of the terminal device 201.

In some example embodiments, one or more alternative QoS targets for the session may be provided to the first access network device 203 to further improve communication efficiency. In these example embodiments, if the first access network device 203 cannot meet one of the QoS targets for the session, the first access network device 203 may determine whether any other alternative QoS targets are met. These alternative QoS targets may have different priorities. The first network device 207 may receive a notification from the first access network device 203 if none of the alternative QoS targets can be supported, or the minimum QoS target cannot be supported.

Then, as shown in fig. 3, at block 320, the first network device 207 sends a first indication to add a new QoS flow for the session or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session. For example, in some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may determine, based on policies at the first network device 207, that the first access network device 203 should be caused to activate dual connectivity to compensate for QoS objectives of sessions that the first access network device 203 does not satisfy. In this example, the first network device 207 may send a first indication for enabling the first access network device 203 to activate dual connectivity.

For example, the first indication may be an implicit indication or an explicit indication. In some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may send a first indication to trigger a session modification to add a new QoS flow for the session. For example, the first network device 207 may trigger a Packet Data Unit (PDU) session modification procedure as an implicit first indication for causing the first access network device 203 to activate dual connectivity. In an example embodiment where first network device 207 is implemented by a PCF, during PDU session modification, first network device 207 may change PCC rules associated with the affected PDU session by adding a new QoS flow to the session.

In some other example embodiments, in response to the notification of the first access network device 203, the first network device 207 may forward the notification to the second network device 209. If the first network device 207 can obtain a request from the second network device 209 to release resources for the session, the first network device 207 can send a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session. For example, session Management (SM) policy association termination may be triggered by the first network device 207 as an implicit second indication for releasing access network resources associated with the session. Thus, access network resources reserved for the session may be used for other traffic. Therefore, the resource utilization rate can be improved.

In some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may activate a notification control to enable automatic notification of the first access network device 203 to the second network device 209. For example, the first network device 207 may receive a request for notification control from the NEF or TSCTSF. The first network device 207 may then activate the notification control. In some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may interact with the second network device 209 via the NEF if there is no individual QoS target provided by the second network device 209. The NEF may request notification control based on an identifier of the second network device 209 associated with the session. In some other example embodiments, the first network device 207 may interact with the second network device 209 via the NEF and TSCTSF if there are individual QoS targets provided by the second network device 209. If TSCTSF can receive an individual QoS goal, it can request notification control. Such a request for notification control may be signaled to the first network device 207 via Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create service operation.

Alternatively or additionally, in some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may activate the notification control based on an identifier of the second network device 209 that itself is associated with the session without receiving a request from the NEF or TSCTSF. For example, if the identifier of the second network device 209 indicates that the second network device 209 is available for integration with the TSN, the first network device 207 may set the QNC parameter in the PCC rule to activate the notification control. Such an automatic notification towards the second network device 209 may serve as an enabler for notification control towards the CNC from the second network device 209 in a fully centralized configuration model, which allows timely updates to the CNC regarding QoS that the first access network device 203 can currently support.

Fig. 4 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 400 for the first access network device 203, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, the method 400 will be described with reference to fig. 2A.

At block 410, if the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target for the session, the first access network device 203 sends a notification indicating that the first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target for the session. In embodiments where one or more alternative QoS targets for the session may be provided to the first access network device 203, the first access network device 203 may determine whether any of the alternative QoS targets are met. If the first access network device 203 cannot meet the current QoS target of the session, but the first access network device 203 may achieve one of the alternative QoS targets, the first access network device 203 may send a notification while sending an indication of a reference to the alternative QoS target achieved by the first access network device 203.

At block 420, in response to receiving the third indication to activate dual connectivity in the session, the first access network device 203 activates dual connectivity in the session. Alternatively, in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session, the first access network device 203 releases the access network resources.

For example, the third indication may be an indication of a redundant sequence number for enabling dual connectivity. In embodiments where the first access network device 203 may interact directly with the first network device 207, the third indication received by the first access network device 203 may be the same as the first indication transmitted by the first network device 207. Similarly, the fourth indication received by the first access network device 203 may be the same as or different from the second indication transmitted by the first network device 207.

In some example embodiments, to activate dual connectivity, the first access network device 203 may select a second access network device 205 to provide dual connectivity in the session based on the QoS target. For example, the first access network device 203 may select the second access network device 205 based on the capabilities of the second access network device 205 to help meet QoS objectives. Then, a dual connection may be activated for the session. In dual connectivity, the QoS target may be achieved by the second access network device 205 alone, or by both the first access network device 203 and the second access network device 205. The establishment of the dual connection may ensure the implementation of QoS that the first access network device 203 may not have been able to meet before.

Fig. 5 illustrates a flowchart of an example method 500 of TSN 209, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, the method 500 will be described with reference to fig. 2A.

At block 510, TSN 209 receives a notification from first network device 207 indicating that first access network device 203 cannot meet the QoS target for the session. In some example embodiments, the first network device 207 may interact with the second network device 209 via the NEF or otherwise via TSCTSF. In some other example embodiments, the first network device 207 may interact directly with the second network device 209. In embodiments where one or more alternative QoS targets for the session may be provided to the first access network device 203, the notification may include a reference to an alternative QoS target that is met by the first access network device 203 if the current QoS target is not met, but the alternative QoS target is met.

At block 520, the second network device 209 determines that the first access network device 203 does not support traffic characteristics for the aggregated TSN stream associated with the session. Then, as shown in fig. 5, at block 530, the second network device 209 sends a request for the first network device 207 to release resources for the session. Alternatively, the second network device 209 reassembles the plurality of streams and provides a plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of reassembled time-sensitive network streams to the first network device 207.

If the second network device 209 determines that QoS degradation is unacceptable, or if the currently supported QoS is insufficient for the second network device 209 and the second network device 209 will no longer use resources, the second network device 209 may send the request to release resources for the session. The request from the second network device 209 may be sent via Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _revoke service operation. The NEF may then trigger Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _Delete/Unsubscribe and/or Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _Delete and Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _ Unsubscribe operations. Based on the trigger, the first network device 207 may invoke policy association termination to request release of access network resources for the session as an implicit second indication for releasing access network resources.

In some other example embodiments, upon receiving notification of the first access network device 203, the second network device 209 may split (and/or re-aggregate/re-arrange) the aggregated TSN streams to generate a plurality of re-aggregated TSN streams and provide a plurality of QoS targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated TSN streams to the first network device 207. For example, the second network device 209 may issue a separate QoS request corresponding to the reassembled TSN stream to the first network device 207 and provide an individual QoS target indicating a lower requested guaranteed stream bit rate (GFBR) for the reassembled TSN stream. The second network device 209 may update the TSC assistance container for a plurality of re-aggregated TSN streams that may have been previously created for an existing aggregated TSN stream.

In some example embodiments, if the second network device 209 is implemented by TSN AF in a fully centralized configuration model, or a centralized and/or distributed model is used, the second network device 209 may send a notification of the first access network device 203 to the CNC. For example, the second network device 209 may immediately send a notification to the CNC and then receive a reconfiguration from the CNC to route and schedule the plurality of TSN flows, once it detects that the QoS target is not met, before re-aggregating the plurality of TSN flows.

Fig. 6 illustrates a process 600 of triggering activation of dual connectivity based on notification of a first access network device 203 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, the process 600 will be described with reference to fig. 2A. In fig. 6, the first access network device 203 may be implemented by a primary RAN device 601. The first network device 207 may be implemented by the PCF 603. The second network device 209 may be implemented by a TSN AF 605.

As shown in fig. 6, through operations 602 through 610, if a certain QoS target of a session cannot be met, notification control may be activated and the primary RAN device 601 may transmit a corresponding notification. Such notification may be sent to SMF 608 and forwarded to PCF 603.

Through optional operations 612 through 614, the notification of the primary RAN device 601 may be further forwarded to the TSN AF 605, and the TSN AF 605 may then take this into account in order to update the QoS request to the 5 GS.

The pcf 603 may receive a notification of the first RAN device indicating that the primary RAN device 601 cannot meet the QoS target of the session, via operation 616. Based on this, the PCF may trigger a corresponding PDU session modification procedure. PCF 603 may change one or more PCC rules associated with the affected PDU session by adding a new QoS flow to compensate for QoS targets that are not currently being met by primary RAN device 601. Through operations 618 through 626, a portion of a PDU session modification procedure may be implemented.

Through operation 628, the first RAN device 601 may activate dual connectivity based on the changed PCC rule(s) and additional QoS flows (5G QoS identifier (5 QI)/QoS Flow Identifier (QFI)) in the PDU session. Based on the 5QI/QFI thus added, the primary RAN device 601 may initiate a selection of the secondary RAN device. The primary RAN device 601 may select a secondary RAN device that has not previously participated in the PDU session and has sufficient resources to help achieve QoS objectives that the primary RAN device 601 was previously unable to meet. Through operations 630 through 634, a portion of the PDU session modification procedure may be implemented and the PCF 603 may be notified of the allocated resources or the satisfied QoS. The QoS target of the session may be achieved again due to the added new QoS flows implemented on the secondary RAN device with sufficient resources.

Fig. 7 illustrates a process 700 of establishing a session at the second network device 209 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, the process 700 will be described with reference to fig. 2 and 6.

As shown in fig. 7, in 5GS integration following the fully distributed model and the fully centralized configuration model, implementation of automatic notification control of TSN AF 605 is enabled, and implementation of feedback from TSN AF 605 is enabled to release RAN resources. Fig. 7 shows in detail the procedure of PDU session modification based on a request for Message Session Relay Protocol (MSRP) protocol from TSN AF 605, and the behavior of TSN AF 605 based on a notification from main RAN device 601.

As shown in fig. 7, at 702, TSN AF 605 may send a request for AF session reservation resources to NEF 701 in a Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _create request message (UE address, AF identifier, flow description, qoS reference, (optional) alternative service requirements (containing one or more QoS parameters in order of priority).

Then, at 704, NEF 701 can grant the request from TSN AF 605, and can apply policies to control the total amount of predefined QoS granted for the TSN AF. If authorization is not granted, operations 608 through 616 may be skipped and NEF 701 may reply to TSN AF 605 with a result value indicating that authorization failed.

In some example embodiments where TSN AF 605 does not provide any individual QoS parameters, NEF 701 may interact with PCF 603 by triggering Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create request, at 706, provided with the supply of the UE address, the identifier of TSN AF 605, the flow description(s), the QoS reference, and optionally an alternative service requirement (containing one or more QoS parameters in order of priority). Furthermore, NEF 701 may determine that TSN AF 605 may be used to follow a fully distributed model or integration of a fully centralized model with the TSN based on an identifier of TSN AF 605. In this case, NEF 701 may include in its request to PCF 603 the establishment of notification control regarding resources associated with the AF session (alternative #1 as shown in FIG. 7). Any optionally received time periods or traffic may also be included and mapped to sponsored data connectivity information (sponsored data connectivity information).

In some other example embodiments where TSN AF 605 may provide any individual QoS parameters, the individual QoS parameters may be sent to PCF 603 via TSCTSF 703,703. At 708, the NEF 701 may forward the received alternative QoS parameter(s) to TSCTSF 703 in the Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create request message. Then, at 710, TSCTSF 703 may interact with the PCF 603 by triggering a Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _create request. TSCTSF 703 may include in its request to the PCF 603 the establishment of notification control regarding resources related to the AF session (alternative #2 as shown in fig. 7).

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 does not provide any individual QoS parameters, PCF 603 may determine if the request is authorized. If the request can be granted, the PCF may derive the QoS target for the session based on the information provided by NEF 701 and determine if the QoS is allowed (according to the PCF configuration for the TSN AF 605). Additional information may be considered to derive the response from PCF 603 without any limitation to the scope of the present disclosure. PCF 603 may then send a Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create response message to NEF 701 at 712, indicating whether the request was granted.

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 may provide any of the alternative QoS parameters, PCF 603 may determine, for the request received from TSCTSF 703,703, whether the request is authorized. If the request is authorized, the PCF may derive the QoS target for the session based on the information provided by TSCTSF 703,703 and may determine whether the QoS is allowed (according to the PCF configuration). Further, at 714, PCF 603 may send the result to TSCTSF 703,703. Then, at 716, TSCTSF 306 may send a Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _create response message to NEF 701 indicating whether the request was granted.

At 718, NEF 701 may send Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _create response message (transaction reference ID, result) to TSN AF 605. The "result" field sent to TSN AF 605 may indicate whether the request is granted (based on immediate feedback according to policy, and may include information about the actual allocated QoS of the session once additional notification from the first RAN device 603 is available).

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 does not provide any individual QoS parameters, at 720, NEF 701 may send Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _subscnibe message to PCF 603 to Subscribe to notifications of resource allocation status and to Subscribe to other events. For example, at this point in time, if "the first RAN device 603 can no longer meet the QoS target for (part of) the AF session", the NEF 701 may subscribe to the following events: "QoS target can no longer be met" (alternative #1 shown in fig. 7) to receive the notification. The corresponding notification control for the first RAN device 603 may be activated accordingly.

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 may provide any individual QoS parameters, TSCTSF 703 may send a Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _subscore message to PCF 603 at 722 to Subscribe to notifications of resource allocation status and to Subscribe to other events. For example, at this point in time, if "the first RAN device 603 can no longer meet the QoS target for (part of) the AF session", TSCTSF 306 may subscribe to the following events: "QoS target can no longer be met" (alternative #2 shown in fig. 7) to receive the notification. The corresponding notification control for the first RAN device 603 is activated accordingly.

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 does not provide any individual QoS parameters, PCF 603 may send Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _notify message to NEF 701 informing of the event when the event condition may be met, e.g., the establishment of transmission resources corresponding to the QoS update is successful or failed, at 724.

In an example embodiment where TSN AF 605 may provide any individual QoS parameters, PCF 603 may send TSCTSF a Npcf _ PolicyAuthorization _notify message to TSCTSF 703 informing of the event when the event condition may be met, e.g., the establishment of transmission resources corresponding to the QoS update is successful or failed, at 726. Then, at 728, TSCTSF 703 may send Ntsctsf _ QoSandTSCAssistance _notify message with the event reported by PCF 603 to NEF 701. At 730, NEF 301 may send Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _notify message with the event reported by PCF 603 to TSN AF 605.

At 732, TSN AF 605 may evaluate the result of the notification. In some cases, from the perspective of TSN AF 605, the QoS that RAN device 603 is currently able to support may be inadequate (i.e., traffic characteristics of the TSN flows cannot be supported), and TSN AF 605 may decide to drop its request and/or update its QoS request (which is not currently satisfied). In some example embodiments, at 734, the revocation may be performed by Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _revoke operation. In some other example embodiments, the Update may be performed by a Nnef _ AFsessionWithQoS _update request (not shown). Accordingly, at 736, if PCF 603 can receive a revocation request based on the revocation request of released resources of TSN AF 605, the PCF can trigger SM policy association termination to release the corresponding RAN resources (PDU session release).

Fig. 8 illustrates a procedure 800 for PDU session modification in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, the process 800 will be described with reference to fig. 2 and 6. In fig. 8, a fully distributed configuration model of TSNs using the MSRP protocol is utilized. However, similar processes apply to any other protocol or configuration model.

As shown in fig. 8, operations 802 through 810 are procedures for issuing QoS requests at PCF 603 using existing PDU sessions and conventional processing. Then, at 810, PCF 603 may set the QNC parameters in the PCC rules to activate notification control based on the identifier of TSN AF 605 to enable automatic notification by the primary RAN device 601, the notification indicating the ability of the primary RAN device 601 to meet the QoS target of the QoS request. For example, the set of QNC parameters in the PCC rules may indicate that a notification of the primary RAN device 601 is requested when the primary RAN device 601 is unable to meet the QoS target, e.g., when GFBR is no longer guaranteed for the QoS request. Operations 814 to 830 are procedures for reserving resources in 5GS and notifying the TSN AF 605 of the reserved resources.

Based on the above operations, an automatic notification by the primary RAN device 601 may be enabled, the notification indicating the capability of the primary RAN device 601 to meet the quality of service target of the QoS request. Using the notification control mechanism, TSN AF 605 may receive resource status updates of the primary RAN device 601 whenever the primary RAN device 601 is no longer able to meet QoS targets. That is, TSN AF 605 may be notified whenever information about reserved resources (and corresponding supported/guaranteed 5 QI) changes. If TSN AF 605 may provide one or more alternative QoS targets in priority order, the resource status update may indicate a reference to an alternative QoS target that may be supported, or information that the alternative QoS target with the lowest priority cannot be supported.

Once TSN AF 605 can receive feedback about the actual reserved resources (including RAN resources), it can modify its request accordingly. For example, TSN AF 605 may adapt the aggregation of TSN flows upon receiving RAN feedback that can no longer support QoS flows to which the aggregated flow is mapped. For example, TSN AF 605 may previously aggregate ten TSN streams belonging to the same traffic class, ending at the same outlet, and having the same period and compatible burst arrival time into a single aggregate stream (S1). Then, if TSN AF 605 can receive a notification that requested GFBR a of the QoS flows to which the aggregated TSN flows are mapped is no longer able to be satisfied, TSN AF 605 can split the aggregated flow into two re-aggregated flows (S2 and S3). Each of the re-aggregated streams may be generated from five TSN streams. TSN AF 605 may request GFBR2 and GFBR3 below GFBR a 1. The TSN AF may then issue separate QoS requests corresponding to the two reassembled flows to the 5GS and provide individual QoS parameters of GFBR and GFBR that indicate the lower requests for the reassembled flows. In addition, TSN AF 605 may update the TSC auxiliary container for the two re-aggregated TSN streams (S2 and S3).

In a fully centralized configuration model, this may trigger updating 5GS capabilities to the CNC. Based on such 5GS capability updates received from TSN AF 605 upon receipt of notification control, the CNC may trigger a corresponding network reconfiguration, e.g., path re-computation, TSN AF reconfiguration.

Fig. 9 is a simplified block diagram of a device 900 suitable for implementing example embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 900 may be implemented at or as part of the first access device 203, the first network device 207, or the second network device 209 as shown in fig. 2A.

As shown, the device 900 includes a processor 910, a memory 920 coupled to the processor 910, a communication module 930 coupled to the processor 910, and a communication interface (not shown) coupled to the communication module 930. Memory 920 stores at least program 940. The communication module 930 is used for bi-directional communication via multiple antennas, for example. The communication interface may represent any interface necessary for communication.

The program 940 is assumed to include program instructions that, when executed by the associated processor 910, enable the device 900 to operate in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, as discussed herein with reference to fig. 3-5. The example embodiments herein may be implemented by computer software executable by the processor 910 of the device 900, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. The processor 910 may be configured to implement various example embodiments of the present disclosure.

Memory 920 may be of any type suitable to the local technical network and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as non-transitory computer-readable storage media, semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory, as non-limiting examples. Although only one memory 920 is shown in device 900, there may be multiple memory modules physically distinct in device 900. The processor 910 may be of any type suitable to a local technical network and may include one or more of a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture, as non-limiting examples. The device 900 may have multiple processors, such as an application specific integrated circuit chip that is temporally subject to a clock that synchronizes the main processor.

When device 900 is acting as first network device 207 or as part of first network device 207, processor 910 and communication module 930 may cooperate to implement method 300 as described above with reference to fig. 2A and 3. When the device 900 is acting as the first access network device 203 or as part of the first access network device 203, the processor 910 and the communication module 930 may cooperate to implement the method 400 as described above with reference to fig. 2A and 4. When the device 900 is acting as the second network device 209 or as part of the second network device 209, the processor 910 and the communication module 930 may cooperate to implement the method 500 as described above with reference to fig. 2A and 5. All of the operations and features as described above with reference to fig. 2-8 are equally applicable to the device 900 and have similar effects. Details will be omitted for the sake of simplicity.

In general, the various example embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor or other computing device. While various aspects of the example embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other pictorial representation, it is well understood that these blocks, apparatus, systems, techniques or methods described herein may be implemented in, as non-limiting examples, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product comprises computer executable instructions, such as those included in program modules, that are executed in a device on a target real or virtual processor to perform the methods 300, 400, or 500 as described above with reference to fig. 2-5. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. In various example embodiments, the functionality of the program modules may be combined or split between program modules as desired. Machine-executable instructions of program modules may be executed within local or distributed devices. In a distributed device, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage media.

Program code for carrying out the methods of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus such that the program code, when executed by the processor or controller, causes the functions/operations specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram to be implemented. The program code may execute entirely on the machine, partly on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the machine and partly on a remote machine or entirely on the remote computer or server.

In the context of this disclosure, computer program code or related data may be carried by any suitable carrier to enable an apparatus, device, or processor to perform the various processes and operations described above. Examples of the carrier include a signal, a computer-readable medium.

The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable medium may include, but is not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of a computer-readable storage medium would include an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a Random Access Memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

Moreover, although operations are described in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Also, while the above discussion contains several specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular example embodiments. Certain features that are described in the context of separate example embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple exemplary embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination.

Although the disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Various example embodiments of these techniques have been described. In addition to or as an alternative to the above, the following embodiments are described. The features described in any of the examples below may be used with any of the other examples described herein.

In some aspects, a method implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprises: receiving a notification indicating that a first access network device in a cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; transmitting one of the following: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

In some example embodiments, transmitting the first indication includes: a first indication is sent to trigger a session modification to add a new quality of service flow for the session.

In some example embodiments, sending the second indication includes: a second indication is sent for triggering session management policy association termination to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: forwarding the notification to the second network device, and sending the second indication includes: in response to receiving a request from the second network device to release resources for the session, a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session is sent.

In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: activating a notification control to automatically send a notification to a second network device associated with the session; and automatically transmitting a notification to the second network device in response to activating the notification control.

In some example embodiments, activating the notification control includes: receiving a request for notification control from a network exposure function or a time sensitive communication time sensitive function; and in response to receiving the request for notification control, activating the notification control.

In some example embodiments, activating the notification control includes: the notification control is activated based on the identifier of the second network device.

In some example embodiments, the first network device includes a policy control function.

In some aspects, a method implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network, comprises: sending a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service objective for the session; and performing an action, the action comprising: the dual connectivity is activated in response to receiving a third indication to activate the dual connectivity in the session, or access network resources are released in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, activating the dual connectivity in the session includes: a second access network device for providing dual connectivity in the session is selected based on the quality of service target.

In some aspects, a method implemented at a second network device includes: receiving a notification from a first network device in the cellular communication network indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for the session; determining that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of aggregated time-sensitive network flows associated with the session; and performing an action, the action comprising one of: a request is sent for the first network device to release resources for the session or to re-aggregate the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and a plurality of quality of service targets is provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: in response to the re-aggregating the plurality of time-sensitive network flows, a time-sensitive communication assistance container for the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows is updated.

In some example embodiments, sending the request for the first network device to release resources for the session comprises: in accordance with a determination that the quality of service degradation is unacceptable, a request is sent for the first network device to release resources.

In some example embodiments, the second network device includes a time sensitive network application function.

In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: sending a notification to a centralized network controller; and receiving a reconfiguration from the centralized network controller for routing and scheduling the plurality of time-sensitive network flows.

In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receiving a notification indicating that a first access network device in a cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; transmitting one of the following: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is caused to send the first indication by: a first indication is sent to trigger a session modification to add a new quality of service flow for the session.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is caused to send the second indication by: a second indication is sent for triggering session management policy association termination to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is further caused to: forwarding the notification to the second network device and sending the second indication by: in response to receiving a request from the second network device to release resources for the session, a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session is sent.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is further caused to: activating a notification control to automatically send a notification to a second network device associated with the session; and automatically transmitting a notification to the second network device in response to activating the notification control.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is caused to activate notification control by: receiving a request for notification control from a network exposure function or a time sensitive communication time sensitive function; and in response to receiving the request for notification control, activating the notification control.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is caused to activate notification control by: the notification control is activated based on the identifier of the second network device.

In some example embodiments, an apparatus includes a policy control function.

In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: sending a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service objective for the session; and performing an action, the action comprising: the dual connectivity is activated in response to receiving a third indication to activate the dual connectivity in the session, or access network resources are released in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, an apparatus is caused to activate dual connectivity in a session by: a second access network device for providing dual connectivity in the session is selected based on the quality of service target.

In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a second network device, comprises: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receiving a notification from a first network device in the cellular communication network indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for the session; determining that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of aggregated time-sensitive network flows associated with the session; and performing an action, the action comprising one of: a request is sent for the first network device to release resources for the session or to re-aggregate the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and a plurality of quality of service targets is provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is further caused to: in response to the re-aggregating the plurality of time-sensitive network flows, a time-sensitive communication assistance container for the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows is updated.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is caused to send a request to the first network device to release resources for the session by: in accordance with a determination that the quality of service degradation is unacceptable, a request is sent for the first network device to release resources.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus is further caused to: sending a notification to a centralized network controller; and receiving a reconfiguration from the centralized network controller for routing and scheduling the plurality of time-sensitive network flows.

In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprising: means for receiving a notification indicating that a first access network device in a cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; and means for transmitting one of: a first indication to add a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or a second indication to release access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release access network resources.

In some example embodiments, the means for sending the first indication comprises: means for sending a first indication for triggering a session modification to add a new quality of service flow for the session.

In some example embodiments, the means for sending the second indication comprises: means for sending a second indication for triggering session management policy association termination to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: the means for forwarding the notification to the second network device, and the means for sending the second indication comprises: means for sending a second indication for releasing access network resources associated with the session in response to receiving a request from the second network device to release resources for the session.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: means for activating a notification control to automatically send a notification to a second network device associated with the session; and means for automatically transmitting a notification to the second network device in response to activating the notification control.

In some example embodiments, the means for activating notification control includes: means for receiving a request for notification control from a network exposure function or a time sensitive communication time sensitive function; and means for activating the notification control in response to receiving the request for the notification control.

In some example embodiments, the means for activating notification control includes: means for activating a notification control based on an identifier of the second network device.

In some aspects, an apparatus comprises: means for sending a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service objective for the session; and means for performing an action comprising: the dual connectivity is activated in response to receiving a third indication to activate the dual connectivity in the session, or access network resources are released in response to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session.

In some example embodiments, the means for activating dual connectivity in a session comprises: means for selecting a second access network device for providing dual connectivity in the session based on the quality of service objective.

In some aspects, an apparatus comprises: means for receiving a notification from a first network device in the cellular communication network, the notification indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for the session; means for determining that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated time-sensitive network flow associated with the session; and means for performing an action comprising one of: a request is sent for the first network device to release resources for the session or to re-aggregate the plurality of time-sensitive network flows and a plurality of quality of service targets is provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: means for updating the time-sensitive communication assistance container for the plurality of reassembled time-sensitive network flows in response to the plurality of reassembled time-sensitive network flows.

In some example embodiments, the means for sending a request for the first network device to release resources for the session comprises: means for sending a request to the first network device to release resources in accordance with a determination that the quality of service degradation is unacceptable.

In some example embodiments, the second network device includes means for sending a notification to the centralized network controller; and means for receiving a reconfiguration from the centralized network controller for routing and scheduling the plurality of time-sensitive network flows.

In some aspects, a computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform a method according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

receiving a notification indicating that a first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; and

One of the following is sent:

a first indication for adding a new quality of service flow for the session to enable the first access network device to activate dual connectivity in the session, or

A second indication for releasing access network resources associated with the session to enable the first access network device to release the access network resources.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein sending the first indication comprises:

The first indication is sent for triggering a session modification to add the new quality of service flow for the session.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein sending the second indication comprises:

the method further includes sending the second indication to trigger session management policy association termination to release the access network resources associated with the session.

4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

Forwarding the notification to the second network device, and

Sending the second indication includes:

In response to receiving a request from the second network device to release resources for the session, the second indication to release the access network resources associated with the session is sent.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising:

activating a notification control to automatically send the notification to a second network device associated with the session; and

The notification is automatically transmitted to the second network device in response to activating the notification control.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein activating the notification control comprises:

Receiving a request for the notification control from a network exposure function or a time sensitive communication time sensitive function; and

The notification control is activated in response to receiving the request for the notification control.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein activating the notification control comprises:

the notification control is activated based on an identifier of the second network device.

8. The method of any of claims 1-7, wherein the first network device comprises a policy control function.

9. A method implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

Sending a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; and

Performing an action, the action comprising:

in response to receiving a third indication to activate dual connectivity in the session, activating the dual connectivity, or

Responsive to receiving a fourth indication to release access network resources associated with the session, the access network resources are released.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein activating the dual connectivity in the session comprises:

A second access network device for providing the dual connectivity in the session is selected based on the quality of service target.

11. A method implemented at a second network device, comprising:

receiving a notification from a first network device in a cellular communication network, the notification indicating that a first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service target for a session;

determining that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated time-sensitive network flow associated with the session; and

Performing an action, the action comprising one of:

Transmitting a request to the first network device to release resources for the session, or

A plurality of time-sensitive network flows are re-aggregated and a plurality of quality of service targets are provided to the first network device, the plurality of quality of service targets corresponding to the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:

in response to the plurality of time-sensitive network flows being re-aggregated, a time-sensitive communication assistance container for the plurality of re-aggregated time-sensitive network flows is updated.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein sending the request for the first network device to release the resources for the session comprises:

In accordance with a determination that quality of service degradation is unacceptable, a request is sent for the first network device to release the resource.

14. The method of any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the second network device comprises a time sensitive network application function.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising:

sending the notification to a centralized network controller; and

A reconfiguration is received from the centralized network controller for routing and scheduling a plurality of time-sensitive network flows.

16. An apparatus implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

At least one processor; and

At least one memory including computer program code;

the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to:

One of the following is sent:

17. An apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus is caused to send the first indication by:

18. An apparatus of claim 16, wherein the apparatus is caused to send the second indication by:

19. The apparatus of any of claims 16 to 18, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:

Forwarding the notification to the second network device, and

The second indication is sent by:

20. The apparatus of any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:

21. An apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the apparatus is caused to activate the notification control by:

22. An apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the apparatus is caused to activate the notification control by:

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the apparatus comprises a policy control function.

24. An apparatus implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

At least one processor; and

At least one memory including computer program code;

Performing an action, the action comprising:

25. An apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the apparatus is caused to activate the dual connectivity in the session by:

26. An apparatus implemented at a second network device, comprising:

At least one processor; and

At least one memory including computer program code;

Performing an action, the action comprising one of:

27. An apparatus of claim 26, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:

28. An apparatus of claim 27, wherein the apparatus is caused to send the request to the first network device to release the resources for the session by:

29. The apparatus of any of claims 26 to 28, wherein the second network device comprises a time-sensitive network application function.

30. An apparatus of claim 29, wherein the apparatus is further caused to:

sending the notification to a centralized network controller; and

31. An apparatus implemented at a first network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

Means for receiving a notification indicating that a first access network device in the cellular communication network cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; and

Means for transmitting one of:

32. An apparatus implemented at a first access network device in a cellular communication network, comprising:

Means for sending a notification indicating that the first access network device cannot meet a quality of service objective for a session; and

Means for performing an action, the action comprising:

33. An apparatus implemented at a second network device, comprising:

Means for receiving a notification from a first network device in a cellular communication network, the notification indicating that the first access network device in the cellular communication network is unable to meet a quality of service target for a session;

Means for determining that the first access network device does not support traffic characteristics of an aggregated time-sensitive network flow associated with the session; and

Means for performing an action comprising one of:

34. A computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method of any of claims 1 to 8.

35. A computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method of any of claims 9 to 10.

36. A computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method of any of claims 11 to 15.