JP2023539061A - Method and device for setting timer values in a network - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and apparatus for setting a timer value for transitioning between states of a data session in a network is provided. By a second entity that sets the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network that includes a first entity of the invention and a second entity that provides network analysis. The performed method includes the steps of: obtaining, by a second entity, input data including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE); providing an output analysis to the first entity that includes a UE communication analysis for the session, the output analysis being used to determine whether to update the value of the inactivity timer for the data session. . [Representative diagram] Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for setting timer values for transitioning between states of data sessions in a network.

Looking back at the evolution of wireless communications over successive generations, technologies have been developed primarily for services aimed at humans, such as voice, multimedia, and data. Since the commercialization of 5th-generation (5G) communication systems, it is expected that an explosive increase in connected devices will be connected to communication networks. Examples of connected things include vehicles, robots, drones, home appliances, displays, smart sensors installed in various infrastructures, construction machinery, and factory equipment. Mobile devices are expected to evolve into diverse form factors such as augmented reality glasses, virtual reality headsets, and holographic devices. In the 6G (6th-generation) era, efforts are being made to develop an improved 6G communication system to connect hundreds of billions of devices and things and provide a variety of services. For this reason, the 6G communication system is called a "beyond 5G" system.

In a 6G communication system that is expected to be realized around 2030, the maximum transmission speed is tera (i.e., 1,000 gigabytes) bps, and the wireless delay time is 100 microseconds (μsec). That is, the transmission speed in a 6G communication system will be 50 times faster than that in a 5G communication system, and the wireless delay time will be reduced to one-tenth.

To achieve such high data transfer rates and ultra-low latency times, 6G communication systems are based on terahertz (terahertz) bands, such as the 95 gigahertz (95 GHz) to 3 terahertz (3THz) bands. ) is being considered. In the terahertz band, compared to the millimeter wave (mmWave) band introduced in 5G, technology to ensure signal reach, or coverage, is expected to become more important due to more serious path loss and atmospheric absorption phenomena. . The main technologies for ensuring coverage include RF (radio frequency) elements, antennas, new waveforms that have better coverage than OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing), and beamforming. ing), large array massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional multiple input/output (FD-MIMO), array antenna (array antenna), large-scale antenna (l multiplex such as large scale antenna) It is necessary to develop antenna transmission technology. In addition, in order to improve the coverage of terahertz band signals, metamaterial-based lenses and antennas, high-dimensional spatial multiplexing technology using OAM (orbital angular momentum), RIS (reconfigurable intelligent surface), etc. new technologies are being discussed.

In addition, in order to improve frequency efficiency and improve the system network, 6G communication systems use full duplex technology in which the uplink and downlink simultaneously utilize the same frequency resources at the same time. , network technology that makes integrated use of satellites and HAPS (high-altitude platform stations), network structure innovation technology that supports mobile base stations, etc., and enables optimization and automation of network operations, and spectrum technology. Optimize the system by incorporating end-to-end AI support functions by utilizing dynamic spectrum sharing technology and AI (artificial intelligence) from the design stage through collision avoidance based on usage predictions. AI-based communication technology that realizes high-performance communication and computing resources (mobile edge computing (MEC), cloud, etc.) to provide services with a complexity that exceeds the limits of the computing power of user equipment (UE). Next-generation distributed computing technology is being developed. Furthermore, we will improve connectivity between devices by designing new protocols for use in 6G communication systems, enabling hardware-based security environments, developing mechanisms for secure data utilization, and developing techniques for maintaining privacy. Efforts continue to further strengthen, further optimize networks, promote softwareization of network entities, and increase the openness of wireless communications.

Through research and development of such 6G communication systems, a new dimension of hyper-connectivity will be achieved through the hyper-connectivity of 6G communication systems, which includes not only connections between things but also connections between people and things. The next hyper-connected experience is expected to become possible. Specifically, through the 6G communication system, we can create truly immersive extended reality (truly immersive XR), high-fidelity mobile holograms, and digital replicas. It is now possible to provide services such as a) It is expected that this will happen. In addition, with improved security and reliability, services such as remote surgery, industrial automation, and emergency response will be provided via the 6G communication system, which will improve industrial, medical, and It is applied in various fields such as automobiles and home appliances.

Please refer to the following document below.

[1] 3GPP (registered trademark) (3rd Generation Partnership Project) TR (Technical Report) 28.809: Study on enhancement of Management Data Ana lyrics (MDA), Rel-17 (06-2020)
[2] 3GPP (registered trademark) TS23.288: Architecture enhancements for 5G System (5GS) to support network data analytics services, Rel-16 (06- 2020)
[3] 3GPP (registered trademark) TR23.700-91: Study on enablers for network automation for the 5G System (5GS); Phase 2, Rel-17 (06-2020)
[4] 3GPP (registered trademark) TS23.502: Procedures for the 5G System (5GS), Rel-16 (06-2020)

Various acronyms, abbreviations, and definitions used in this invention are defined at the end of this description.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to improve radio access networks (RAN), core networks (CN), and operations, administration and maintenance. Management system also called maintenance (OAM) It has been identified as a key enabler for 5G end-to-end network automation in all network domains, including those where the standardization process of 5G is applied. Standardization and industry bodies are therefore in the process of developing data analysis specification support so that AI models can support the increasingly complex task of autonomously operating and managing networks.

A pioneer from a RAN perspective, the O-RAN Alliance is an open and efficient platform that leverages AI to automate various network functions (NFs) and reduce operating expenses (OPEX). It was established in 2018 by a leading operator with the vision of developing an open specification for RAN.

Moreover, standardized support for data analysis by 3GPP is already advanced, especially on the CN side and Rel-16 on the control plane. As a network function that follows the service-based architecture principles of 5GC, the data analysis framework anchored in a new so-called network data analytics function (NWDAF) located within 5GC supports multiple control plane functions of the network. was defined with the purpose of improving Furthermore, on the OAM side, a management data analytics service (MDAS) has also been specified by 3GPP to help handle the long-term management aspects of the network [1]. The joint operation of the RAN analytics entity, the network data analytics function (NWDAF), and MDAS is still ongoing within the relevant organizations.

Preferably, the UE is capable of activating and deactivating a 5G PDU (protocol data session) session. Such functionality is typically implemented within the CN's control plane because it requires rapid timescales, i.e., making decisions much more quickly than network management and integration systems typically allow. exist.

The 5G standard by 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) has already developed support for individual and dynamic activation/deactivation of each PDU session set by the UE, but there is a shift from deactivation to activation of PDU sessions. The various transitions of and associated UE states generate considerable control signaling overhead in the network.

Therefore, this transition must be carefully controlled so that the benefit of deactivating the PDU session is not offset by the signaling overhead introduced by said transition. Although the adaptive inactivity timer of individual UEs is a tool proposed to address the above issues, in 5G networks the PDUs required to optimize the value of the inactivation timer Per-PDU-session granularity was not considered. Furthermore, it was not possible to set appropriate values instantaneously based on heuristic algorithms and thus obtain sub-optimal performance.

In order to minimize UE battery power consumption and network resource usage, it is important to assign appropriate values to the deactivation timer. The deactivation timer is designed to control the PDU session and ultimately the UE state transition timing. Shortening the length of the inactivity timer can reduce UE battery power consumption by keeping the UE in the CM (connection management)-IDLE state while the radio module is powered off, but the PDU session Frequent transitions of activation states and UE CM states occur, causing extensive control signaling overhead in the network. In particular, when changing the state of the UE from CM-IDLE to CM-CONNECTED, the necessary paging messages are broadcast over multiple cells, consuming a significant amount of radio resources. However, if the length of the inactivity timer is too long, the radio resource utilization efficiency will decrease and the UE may experience a long tail time staying in CM-CONNECTED before transitioning to CM-IDLE. It will bring more battery power consumption.

Therefore, techniques are needed to set or adjust inactivity timer values to optimize overall performance.

The above information is presented only as background information to assist in understanding the present invention. No determination has been made or any claim made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art with respect to the present invention.

For example, one embodiment of the present invention provides a method, apparatus, and system for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transition between active/inactive states of a PDU session in a 3GPP 5G network based on NWDAF analysis. provide. Aspects of the present invention seek to overcome at least the problems and/or disadvantages noted above and to provide at least the advantages described below.

The present invention has been made in view of the above conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for setting a timer value for transitioning between states of a data session in a network. be.

Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

A value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis according to an aspect of the invention made to achieve the above objects. The method performed by the second entity for configuring a UE comprises the steps of: obtaining, by the second entity, input data comprising communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE); , providing to the first entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session, the output analysis including a value of an inactivity timer for the data session. Used to determine whether to update or not.

According to other aspects of the invention, a communication network is disclosed that is operable to perform the method of the above aspects.

A value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis according to an aspect of the invention made to achieve the above objects. The method performed by the first entity comprises the steps of: transmitting, by the first entity, input data comprising communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE) to the second entity; receiving, by the first entity, from the second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session; and updated data based on the output analysis. and determining transitions between states of the data session using the value of an inactivity timer for the session.

A value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis according to an aspect of the invention made to achieve the above objects. The second entity's apparatus for configuring comprises a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver, the processor obtaining input data including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE). and providing the first entity with an output analysis generated by the second entity based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session; The output analysis is used to determine whether to update the value of the inactivity timer for the data session.

A value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis according to an aspect of the invention made to achieve the above objects. The apparatus for configuring the first entity comprises a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to send input data to the first entity including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE). receiving from the second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session; determining a transition between states of the data session using the value of an inactivity timer for the data session.

An object of an embodiment of the invention is to at least partially address at least one of the problems and/or disadvantages associated with the related art, such as at least one of the problems and/or disadvantages described herein. to address, resolve, and/or alleviate it. Furthermore, it is an objective of an embodiment of the invention to provide at least one advantage over related art, such as at least one of the advantages described herein.

The invention is defined in the independent claims. Preferred features are defined in the dependent claims.

According to the present invention, battery power consumption and network resource usage of the UE can be minimized by assigning appropriate values to the deactivation timer.

Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings that disclose various embodiments of the invention. These and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the invention will become more apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the drawings.

4 illustrates an example operation of a network data analytics function (NWDAF) according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 shows an example based on a NWDAF and multiple input data sources according to an embodiment of the invention. 4 illustrates a procedure supporting NWDAF-based user plane optimization according to various embodiments of the present invention. 4 illustrates a procedure supporting NWDAF-based user plane optimization according to various embodiments of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a network entity used in an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

Hereinafter, specific examples of modes for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It will be understood that like reference numbers refer to similar parts, components, and structures throughout the drawings.

The following description with reference to the drawings is provided to aid in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the invention and equivalents thereof as defined by the claims. Various specific details are included to aid understanding and are to be considered illustrative only. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and structures are omitted for clarity and brevity.

The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to a bibliographical meaning, but are used by the inventors to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, the following description of various embodiments of the invention is provided for purposes of illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention, as defined by the claims and equivalents thereof. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art.

The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural referents unless the context dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "one component surface" includes reference to one or more such surfaces.

Identical or similar components may be shown in different drawings and are designated with the same or similar reference symbols.

Detailed descriptions of techniques, structures, configurations, functions, or processes known in the art are omitted for clarity and brevity and to avoid obscuring the subject matter of the present invention. Ru.

The terms and words used herein are not limited to their bibliographical or standard meanings, but are used merely to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention.

Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise," "include," and "contain" and their derivatives, such as "comprising," ” and “comprises” mean “including, but not limited to,” other features, elements, components, integers, steps, processes, operations, functions, properties, attributes, and/or It is not intended to (and does not) exclude groups.

For example, references to "objects" include references to one or more of these objects.

Throughout this specification and claims, language of the general form "X for Y" is used, where Y is any action, process, operation, function, activity, or step. and X is any means for performing that action, process, operation, function, activity, or step) is specifically adapted, configured, or arranged by X to perform Y Means X is included, but not necessarily exclusive.

Any feature, element, component, integer, step, process, act, function, feature, attribute, and/or grouping thereof described or disclosed in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, example, or claim of the invention. should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, example, or claim described herein unless inconsistent therewith.

Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatus, and systems for setting timer values for transitioning between states of data sessions in a network. The following example is applicable to and uses terminology associated with 3GPP 5G. For example, embodiments of the present invention provide a method, apparatus, and system for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transition between active/inactive states of a PDU session in a 3GPP 5G network based on NWDAF analysis. provide. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the technology disclosed herein is not limited to these examples or 3GPP 5G, but is applicable to any suitable system or standard, such as one or more existing and/or next generation wireless communications. will understand that it applies to a system or standard.

For example, the functionality and other features of various network entities disclosed herein apply to corresponding or equivalent entities or features in other communication systems or standards. Corresponding or equivalent entities or features are considered entities or features that perform the same or similar role, function, operation, or purpose within the network.

For example, in the example below, the functionality of NWDAF is applied to any other suitable type of entity that provides network analysis. In the following examples, the functionality of a user plane function (UPF) is applied to any other suitable type of entity that provides user plane functionality. In the examples below, the functionality of access and mobility management functions (AMF) is applied to any other suitable type of entity that performs mobility management functions. In the examples below, the functionality of a session management function (SMF) is applied to any other suitable type of entity that performs session management functions. In the examples below, the functionality of the AF is applied to any other suitable type of entity that performs the functionality of the application.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. for example,

The technology disclosed herein is not limited to 3GPP 5G.

- In the embodiments disclosed herein, one or more entities are replaced by one or more alternative entities that perform equivalent or corresponding functions, processes, or operations.

- In embodiments disclosed herein, one or more messages are replaced by one or more alternative messages, signals, or other types of information carriers conveying equivalent or corresponding information. .

- One or more additional elements, entities and/or messages are added to the embodiments disclosed herein.

- In one embodiment, one or more non-essential elements, entities and/or messages are omitted.

- The functions, processes, or operations of a particular entity in one embodiment are divided into two or more separate entities in other embodiments.

- The functions, processes, or operations of two or more separate entities in one embodiment are performed by a single entity in other embodiments.

- Information conveyed by a particular message in one embodiment is conveyed by two or more separate messages in other embodiments.

- Information conveyed by two or more separate messages in one embodiment is conveyed by a single message in other embodiments.

- The order in which operations are performed is changed to other embodiments, if possible.

- The transmission of information between network entities is not limited to the particular format, type, and/or order of messages described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein.

Embodiments of the invention are provided in the form of apparatus/devices/network entities configured to perform one or more defined network functions and/or methods therefor. Embodiments of the invention are provided in the form of a system (eg, a network) that includes one or more such apparatus/devices/network entities and/or methods therefor.

The network consists of a user equipment (UE), a radio access network (RAN), an access and mobility management function (AMF) entity, a session management function (SMF) entity, and a user plane function (user plan). e a network data analytics function (NWDAF) entity, an application function (AF) entity, and one or more other network function (NF) entities. out of including one or more of the following.

Certain network functions may be implemented as network elements on dedicated hardware, as software instances running on dedicated hardware, or as virtualized functions exemplified on a suitable platform, such as a cloud infrastructure. NF services are defined as functionality exposed by a NF and consumed by other authorized NFs through a service-based interface.

As discussed above, techniques for setting or adjusting the value of the inactivity timer are desirable to optimize overall performance.

Embodiments of the present invention enable optimization of the above-described trade-off between UE battery consumption and network resource efficiency by utilizing a standardized data analysis framework. Therefore, an adaptive AI-based solution using data analysis is based on the NWDAF framework. For example, an overview of the NWDAF framework defined in [2] will be described below.

The following acronyms, abbreviations, and definitions are used herein.

3GPP: 3rd Generation Partnership Project
5G: 5th Generation
5GC: 5G Core Network
5GS: 5G system
AF: Application Function
AI: Artificial Intelligence
AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function
CM: Connection Management
CN: Core Network
CPU: Central Processing Unit
DL: Downlink
DNN: Data Network Name
gNB: 5G base station GPSI: General Public Subscription Identifier
ID: Identifier/Identity
LTE: Long Term Evolution
MDA: Management Data Analytics
MDAS: Management Data Analytics Service
N4: Interface between SMF and UPF NF: Network Function
NG: Next Generation
NRF: Network Repository Function
NWDAF: Network Data Analytics Function
OAM: Operation and Maintenance
OPEX: Operating Expenses
PDU: Protocol Data Unit
RAN: Radio Access Network
Rel: Release RRC: Radio Resource Control
SLA: Service Level Agreement
SMF: Session Management Function
S-NSSAI: Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information
SUPI: Subscription Permanent Identifier
TA: Tracking Area
TAC: Type Allocation Code
TR: Technical Report
TS: Technical Specification
UE: User Equipment
UL: Uplink
UPF: User Plane Function

FIG. 1 illustrates the operation of an example NWDAF according to an embodiment of the invention. The recently confirmed 3GPP Rel-16 specifies the NWDAF framework, as shown in FIG. In the basic operation of NWDAF 100 shown in FIG. 1, an analytics consumer 102 requests data analysis from the NWDAF, which collects data from different entities to perform training and inference before generating output analytics.

Referring to FIG. 1, an analytics consumer 102 requests certain types of data analysis from NWDAF 100, which is provided by NWDAF 100 in the form of statistics and/or predictions. Analytics consumers (eg, analytics consumer 102) defined in Rel-16 are 5GC NF, Application Function (AF), and OAM. Accordingly, the NWDAF 100 triggers input data collection from input data sources (eg, 5GC NF 104, AF 106, and/or OAM 108) according to the exposure framework defined in [2].

The collected data is then used by the NWDAF 100 to perform training and inference, possibly by an AI engine, but the model definition is outside the scope of standardization to provide sufficient flexibility to suppliers. be. This also means that the AI engine resides outside of the NWDAF 100 itself, and the next release of the standard (Rel-17) has already begun to explore the standardization of the necessary interfaces to enable such disaggregation of NWDAF functionality. It means that there is [3]. Similar considerations apply to the input data collection module. Although embodiments of the invention assume that the AI engine and input data collection module reside within the NWDAF 100, the invention is not limited to this case.

Regardless, the inference results are provided to an analysis generation entity within NWDAF 100 that communicates the statistics and/or predictions requested by the service consumer.

Analysis of at least one of the following: network slice and application service experience, NF and network slice load, network performance, or UE aspects (communication, mobility, prediction and abnormal behavior) as described in [2]. Several data analysis information types have also been introduced in 3GPP Rel-16.

In addition to the basic work described above, Rel-17, which is already in progress, includes the decomposition of the NWDAF functions described above, the architecture and interaction of multiple NWDAF instances, efficient data collection mechanisms, or network slice service level agreements ( [3] extends the Rel-16NWDAF framework by including at least one of the following: service level agreement (SLA) guarantee support to solve several new use cases and key issues.

Based on the above framework description, embodiments of the present invention directly embed into the 5G architecture an autonomous capability to intelligently and dynamically set the value of the inactivity timer for each 5G PDU session of a UE. This approach has the advantage of being highly feasible in current and at least near future networks, since the basic data collection capabilities of the NWDAF used in embodiments of the present invention are already defined herein.

Next, we describe an explanation of the AI problem framed in the context of NWDAF data analysis, as well as the instantiation of the framework for the above problem.

However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the techniques described herein are not limited to setting or adjusting timer values, but may be used to set or adjust any other suitable parameters in the network. will.

In the following, we describe an AI-based technique that leverages NWDAF to set/adjust inactivity timers for activation and deactivation of PDU sessions related to multi-services consumed by a UE. In particular, we describe the overall NWDAF-based technology and highlight the applicability of the technology to currently standardized networks. Detailed instructions for demonstrating a particular framework are also provided.

Figure 2 shows an example based on a NWDAF and multiple input data sources according to an embodiment of the present invention, and illustrates an example of an overall NWDAF-based design utilizing the Rel-16 data analysis framework described in [1]. It shows. This example includes communication from multiple input data sources (e.g., OAM 202, SMF 210, UPF and AF 204, and AMF 206, and optionally NG-RAN and UE) to SMF 210 via an AI-based training and inference module within NWDAF 200. based on the output analysis sent to UPF 208 (e.g., the same as UPF 204). Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to these examples.

Referring to FIG. 2, the internal NWDAF architecture of the present embodiment follows the general principles shown in FIG. Here, the general analytical model outside the scope of the standardization activity is replaced by an inference-based model, the training of which is described further below. Additionally, FIG. 2 shows the input data sources used by the agent to learn the optimal inactivity timer value and provide the necessary analysis.

To respect the framework already agreed and finalized in 3GPP, embodiments of the present invention utilize the supported 5GC entities (i.e. SMF 210, UPF 208, AMF 206), AF 204, and OAM 202 to provide input data. request. However, the invention is not limited to this case. For example, FIG. 2 shows an NWDAF 200, ie, an NG-RAN, and other entities that may provide the necessary input data to the UE, which are not currently supported in the standard. In one embodiment, these other entities are not required as they can be replaced with currently supported alternative entities. These other entities as data sources will be supported by future standards releases.

Additionally, the following is described in the context of example AI-based training and inference models using specific input data. In the embodiments described below, all input data is standardized NWDAF input data, such as UE communications data 222 (e.g., at least one of the following: start and end timestamps, uplink and downlink data rates, or traffic volume). (including one), cell load information 220 measured in number of activated PDU sessions, and mapped to UE type [8]. In one embodiment, unlike UE communication data and cell load, UE type or UE information 224 does not change during network operation and therefore needs to be collected only once.

With respect to the power analysis provided by NWDAF 200, embodiments of the present invention provide data analysis 226 (e.g., UE (including communication analysis and/or network performance analysis) to comply with current 3GPP frameworks. NWDAF 200 also provides historical statistics of timer values.

Accordingly, the data analysis provided by NWDAF 200 allows SMF 210 to (i) activate or deactivate PDU sessions as needed, and (ii) use NWDAF predictions to determine timer values (e.g., inactivity timer for PDU sessions). value 228) and notify the UPF 208 of the update. As defined in [4], a standardized procedure for activating and deactivating PDU sessions as well as user plane management performs both operations, for example by the SMF 210.

<Data analysis>

In one embodiment, NWDAF analysis, as defined in [2], is used to enable optimization of user plane connections based on PDU session timers. However, in its current form it does not support various examples of the invention. Embodiments of the invention therefore extend the current definition, as described below. In the following, UE communications analytics 226 and network performance analytics will be described. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to these embodiments.

<UE communication analysis>

The NWDAF supporting UE communication analysis collects communication descriptions for each application from the AF. In one embodiment, when a consumer NF provides an application ID, the NWDAF only considers the AF, SMF, and UPF data that corresponds to the application ID.

Consumers in this analysis exhibit requirements for one or more of the following non-limiting examples:

- The target of the analysis report is one UE or a group of UEs.
- analysis filter information, optionally including one or more of the following non-limiting examples:

oS-NSSAI,
oDNN,
o Application ID,
o area of interest.

- Period of analysis indicating the time period for which statistics and/or forecasts are required.
- Preferred analytical precision level (e.g. low/high).
- Maximum number of entities.
- In the case of a subscription, it includes the notification correlation ID and the notification target address.

a) Input data: Table 1 shows the current input data specifications in [2] for UE communication analysis. Embodiments of the invention use one or more pieces of such information. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the precise form of input data and/or the source of such information is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 1. <Table 1> shows service data in 5GC related to UE communication.

In embodiments of the invention, for example, in addition to one or more input data parts according to Table 1, one or more input data parts shown in Table 2 are used. In one embodiment, some or all of the input data according to Table 2 is collected as part of the UE communication service data or as a separate entry for each PDU session. Those skilled in the art will understand that the precise format of the input data or the source of such information is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 2. Table 2 shows an example of additional service data in 5GC related to UE communication.

b) Power analysis: Table 3 shows the current power analysis specifications in [2] for UE communication analysis. Statistics does not require a "confidence" item, but prediction does. Embodiments of the invention generate one or more output analysis portions according to Table 3. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the precise form of output analysis is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 3. Table 3 shows the UE communication output analysis.

In one embodiment of the invention, for example, in addition to one or more items of output analysis according to Table 3, one or more items shown in Table 4 are generated. Those skilled in the art will understand that the precise form of output analysis is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 4. Table 4 shows examples of additional power analysis data for UE communications.

≪Network performance analysis≫

In embodiments of the invention, network performance analysis by NWDAF is used to optimize user plane performance (in addition to or in place of UE communication and/or other analysis). For example, in addition to UE communication analysis, the SMF uses network performance analysis to derive timer values that optimize not only the performance of individual UEs but also the performance of the entire network as a whole, especially the RAN.

a) Input data: Table 5 shows the current input data specifications in [2] for UE communication analysis. Embodiments of the invention use one or more pieces of such information. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the precise form of input data and/or the source of such information is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 5. Table 5 shows the input data for network performance analysis.

b) Output analysis: Table 6 shows the current output analysis specifications in [2] for network performance analysis. Statistics does not require a "confidence" item, but prediction does. Embodiments of the invention generate one or more output analysis portions according to Table 6. Those skilled in the art will understand that the precise form of output analysis is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 6. Table 6 shows the network performance output analysis.

In embodiments of the invention, in addition to the one or more output analysis parts according to Table 6, for example, one or more output analysis parts shown in Table 7 are generated. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the precise form of output analysis is not necessarily limited to the embodiments shown in Table 7. For example, one embodiment produces output analysis shown below in bold+italics. Table 7 shows an example of additional network performance output analysis.

3a and 3b illustrate procedures supporting NWDAF-based user plane optimization according to various embodiments of the invention.

The procedure to support NWDAF-based user plane optimization is shown in Figures 3a and 3b. Various operations of the above procedure are described below. In various examples, certain actions (eg, those indicated by dotted arrows/boxes) are omitted. For simplicity, Figures 3a and 3b show two alternative sets of operations (Alt1 and Alt2). Various examples use one or other of these alternatives. Those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of Figures 3a and 3b.

Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, in operation 300, a PDU session is established across the UE, RAN, AMF, SMF, and UPF. Data transfer requires activation of the user plane connection. During the procedure, the user plane connection is deactivated when the inactivity timer expires and activated when new data traffic becomes available.

In act 301, an SMF (eg, SMF 210) subscribes to UE communication analysis at a NWDAF (eg, NWDAF 200).

At act 302, [optional] the SMF subscribes to network performance analysis at the NWDAF.

Input data collection: Two alternatives are possible for data collection related to the N4 session.

Alternative 1 uses SMF and its corresponding service exposure framework to retrieve the required input data described in the present invention, whereas Alternative 2 relies on implementation-specific mechanisms for UPF input data retrieval.

Alternative 1 [All messages are optional]: SMF-based N4 session data collection

In operation 303a, the NWDAF also requests N4 session related input data from the SMF, as defined in Table 2. This also requires other UE communication data with the SMF as the source NF, for example as specified in TS 23.288 [2] and Table 2.

In operation 303b, the SMF requests an N4 session report from the UPF.

In action 303c, the UPF provides the requested N4 session report to the SMF, eg in accordance with clause 4.4.2.2 of TS 23.502 [4].

In operation 303d, the SMF provides the requested N4 session related input data to the NWDAF.

Alternative 2: UPF-based N4 session data collection

At operation 304, [optional] the NWDAF collects N4 session-related input data directly from the UPF via an implementation-specific mechanism.

In operation 305, the NWDAF collects the remaining input data necessary to generate the requested analysis, for example according to TS 23.288 [2].

In operation 306, the NWDAF provides UE communication analysis to the SMF, for example as defined in TS 23.288 [2] and Table 4.

In act 307, [optional] When act 302 is performed, the NWDAF also provides network performance analysis to the SMF, for example as specified in TS 23.288 [2]. For example, add the output analysis data shown in <Table 7>.

In operation 308, while the SMF continues activating and deactivating PDU sessions, the SMF also processes the received analysis provided by the NWDAF.

In operation 309, based on its analysis against the NWDAF analysis, the SMF decides to update the user plane inactivity timer for the particular PDU session associated with the N4 session.

In operation 310, the SMF triggers an N4 session modification procedure, for example according to clause 4.4.1.3 of TS 23.502 [4], to inform the UPF of the inactivity timer update.

Embodiments of the invention provide a method for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis; A method performed by a second entity includes the steps of: obtaining, by the second entity, input data including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE); providing an output analysis generated and including a UE communication analysis for each data session to the first entity, the output analysis determining whether to update a value of an inactivity timer for the data session. used for.

Embodiments of the invention provide a method for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis; A method performed by a first entity includes the steps of: transmitting, by the first entity, input data comprising communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE) to a second entity; receiving from a second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session; and with a value of an inactivity timer for the data session updated based on the output analysis. , determining transitions between states of the data session.

Embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis; The second entity apparatus comprises a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver, the processor comprising: obtaining input data including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE); providing the first entity with an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session, the output analysis being configured to perform the following steps: Used to determine whether to update the value of the active timer.

Embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus for setting the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis; The first entity apparatus comprises a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver, the processor transmitting input data to the second entity including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE). and receiving from a second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session, and an updated inactivity timer value for the data session based on the output analysis. and determining transitions between states of the data session using the data session.

Embodiments of the present invention provide a method for a second entity (e.g., NWDAF) to provide network analysis in a network including a first entity (e.g., SMF) and a second entity, the method The method includes obtaining input data including communication description information, determining an output analysis including a user equipment (UE) communication analysis for each data session based on the input data, and providing the output analysis to a first entity. and providing. Based on the output analysis, the first entity determines the timer value of the data session, i.e. the timer value for transition between states (e.g. active/inactive state) of the data session (e.g. PDU session) determine whether to update the timer).

One embodiment of the invention provides a second entity (e.g., NWDAF) that provides network analysis in a network including a first entity (e.g., SMF) and a second entity, the second entity , configured to obtain input data including communication description information, determine an output analysis including a user equipment (UE) communication analysis for each data session based on the input data, and provide the output analysis to the first entity. be done. Based on the output analysis, the first entity determines the timer value of the data session, i.e. the timer value for transition between states (e.g. active/inactive state) of the data session (e.g. PDU session) determine whether to update the timer).

Embodiments of the invention describe the status (e.g., active/ provides a method for setting a timer (e.g., inactivity timer) value for a transition between (inactive) states, the method comprising: a second entity obtaining input data including communication description information; determining, by a second entity, an output analysis including a user equipment (UE) communication analysis for each data session based on the input data and providing the output analysis to the first entity; and determining, by the first entity, whether to update the timer value of the session.

In one embodiment, the method further includes an act of receiving a request (eg, a subscription) for output analysis by the second entity from the first entity.

In one embodiment, the request includes one or more of a request for analysis of a particular UE or group of UEs, and an analysis filter.

In one embodiment, the analysis filter includes, in the filter criteria, information specifying one or more S-NSSAIs, information specifying one or more DNNs, one or more application IDs, one information indicating the region of interest or more; information specifying the period of interest for which statistics and/or predictions are required; information indicating the preferred level of accuracy of the analysis (e.g., low/high); the maximum of the entity; information specifying the number, and one or more of the notification correlation ID and notification target address at the time of subscription.

In one embodiment, the act of obtaining input data includes, by the second entity, transmitting a request for session parameters (e.g., N4 session parameters) to the first entity; transmitting a request for a session report (e.g., N4 session report) to an entity (e.g., UPF) of the third entity; and receiving session parameters by the first entity from a third entity. , sending session parameters to the second entity.

In one embodiment, the act of obtaining input data includes performing steps with a third entity (e.g., UPF) to obtain session parameters (e.g., N4 session parameters) directly from the third entity. include.

In one embodiment, the input data includes additional Further includes input data.

In one embodiment, the input data acquisition operations are performed continuously.

In one embodiment, the method further includes an act of initiating a procedure to update the timer value (eg, an N4 session modification procedure) if it is determined to update the timer value.

In one embodiment, the method further includes an act of transitioning between states of the data connection based on the corresponding timer value (and optionally traffic).

In one embodiment, the input data includes a portion of one or more of the information specified in Table 1.

In one embodiment, the input data includes an identification of one or more PDU sessions (e.g., obtained from SMF), an identification of an N4 session (e.g., obtained from SMF and/or UPF), a session inactivity timer value ( information (e.g., obtained from the SMF) indicating the state (e.g., activated or deactivated) of one or more PDU sessions (e.g., obtained from the SMF and/or UPF), and including one or more of one or more UE states (e.g., obtained from the AMF).

In one embodiment, the UE communication analysis includes one or more pieces of information specified in Table 3.

In one embodiment, the UE communication analysis includes one or more of the following: identification of one or more PDU sessions, identification of N4 sessions, and a value (e.g., mean or variance) of a session inactivity timer. .

In one embodiment, the output analysis further includes network performance analysis.

In one embodiment, the input data includes one or more pieces of information specified in Table 5.

In one embodiment, the network performance analysis includes one or more pieces of information specified in Table 6.

In one embodiment, network performance analysis includes average usage of allocated resources (e.g., spectrum, CPU, memory, and/or disk) and average network interruptions (for an area subset) during the analyzed period. outage) amount.

In one embodiment, the input data includes communication description information related to one or more of an application function (AF), a data session, a UE, a network slice, and a data network.

Embodiments of the invention provide a network including a first entity (e.g., SMF) and a second entity (e.g., NWDAF), the network configured to operate according to the methods disclosed herein. be done.

Embodiments of the invention provide a first entity (eg, SMF) or a second entity (eg, NWDAF) configured to operate on a network in accordance with the preceding examples.

Embodiments of the invention provide a computer program that, when executed by the computer or processor, includes instructions that cause the computer or processor to perform any of the methods disclosed herein.

Embodiments of the invention provide a computer or processor readable data carrier on which a computer program according to the preceding examples is stored.

In an embodiment of the invention, the value of the inactivity timer is set for activation and deactivation of data sessions related to multi-services in the network.

In embodiments of the invention, the input data includes UE communication data, cell load measured over multiple activation data sessions, and UE type.

In embodiments of the invention, the UE communication data includes at least one of start and end timestamps, uplink and downlink data rates, and traffic volumes.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example network entity used in an embodiment of the invention. For example, the UE, AMF, SMF, UPF, NWDAF, AF, and/or other NFs may be provided in the form of network entities shown in FIG. Those skilled in the art will understand that the network entities shown in FIG. It will be understood that it is realized as a function.

Referring to FIG. 4, entity 400 includes at least one of a processor (or controller) 401, a transmitter 403, and a receiver 405. Receiver 405 is configured to receive one or more messages or signals wirelessly or by wire from one or more other network entities. Transmitter 403 is configured to transmit one or more messages or signals to one or more other network entities wirelessly or by wire. Processor 401 is configured to perform one or more operations and/or functions as described above. For example, processor 401 is configured to perform UE, AMF, SMF, UPF, NWDAF, AF, and/or other NF operations.

The techniques described herein may be implemented using any suitably configured devices and/or systems. Such devices and/or systems are configured to perform a method according to any aspect, embodiment, example, or claim disclosed herein. Such devices include one or more elements, such as one or more of a receiver, transmitter, transceiver, processor, controller, module, or unit, each element having one or more components. The apparatus may be configured to perform the corresponding steps of the above-described processes, acts, and/or methods for implementing the techniques described herein. For example, an operation/function of X is performed by a module configured to perform X (or an X module). One or more of the elements described above may be implemented in hardware, software, or any combination of hardware and software.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware, software, or any combination of hardware and software. Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage, such as read-only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable, or In the form of memory, such as random-access memory (RAM), memory chips, devices, or integrated circuits, or in the form of, for example, compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), magnetic disks, or magnetic tapes. stored on an optically or magnetically readable medium.

It will be appreciated that storage devices and storage media are embodiments of machine-readable storage devices suitable for storing programs containing instructions that, when executed, implement embodiments of the present invention. . Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention include a program containing code for implementing a method, apparatus, or system according to any examples, embodiments, aspects, and/or claims disclosed herein. A machine readable storage device is provided for storing such programs. Furthermore, such programs may be transmitted electronically via any medium, such as, for example, communication signals transmitted via wired or wireless connections.

While the invention has been illustrated and described with reference to various embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there is no departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, such as as defined by the claims and equivalents thereof. It will be understood that various changes in form and detail are possible without limitation.

100, 200 NWDAF: Network data analysis function 102 Analysis consumer 104 5GC NF: 5G core network network function 106 AF: Application function 108 OAM: Operation and maintenance 202 OAM, [NG-RAN: Next Generation - Radio Access Network]
204 UPF: User plane function, AF
206 AMF: Access and Mobility Management Function, [UE: User Equipment]
208 UPF: User plane function 210 SMF: Session management function 220 Cell load information 222 UE communication data 224 UE information 226 Data analysis, UE communication analysis 228 PDU session inactivity timer value 400 Entity 401 Processor 403 Transmitter 405 Receiver

Claims (15)

A method performed by a second entity of setting an inactivity timer value for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis. hand,
obtaining, by the second entity, input data comprising communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE);
providing the first entity with output analysis generated by the second entity based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session;
The method of claim 1, wherein the output analysis is used to determine whether to update the value of an inactivity timer for a data session. The input data is
an identifier for each of the one or more protocol data unit (PDU) sessions obtained from at least one session management function (SMF);
an identifier of an N4 session between the at least one SMF and the at least one UPF, obtained from the at least one SMF and/or at least one user plane function (UPF);
a session inactivity timer value obtained from the at least one SMF and/or the at least one UPF;
information indicative of activation or deactivation status of the one or more PDU sessions obtained from the at least one SMF; or analysis obtained from the at least one access and mobility management function (AMF); 2. The method of claim 1, comprising one or more of one or more UE states during a period of interest. The UE communication analysis includes one or more of an identifier of an N4 session between the first entity and at least one user plane function (UPF), or a value of a session inactivity timer. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The output analysis further includes network performance analysis;
2. The network performance analysis of claim 1, wherein the network performance analysis includes one or more of an average usage of allocated resources, or an average amount of network interruptions in a subset of regions during the analyzed period. Method. The input data is a communication description related to one or more of at least one session management function (SMF), at least one user plane function (UPF), or at least one access and mobility management function (AMF). 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: information. A method performed by said first entity of setting an inactivity timer value for transitioning between states of a data session in a network comprising a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis. hand,
transmitting, by the first entity, input data comprising communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE) to the second entity;
receiving, by the first entity, from the second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session;
determining transitions between states of the data session using an updated inactivity timer value for the data session based on the output analysis. The input data is
an identifier for each of the one or more protocol data unit (PDU) sessions;
an identifier of an N4 session between the first entity and at least one user plane function (UPF);
session inactivity timer value,
information indicating the activation or deactivation status of the one or more PDU sessions; or one or more of the one or more UE status during the analyzed period. 7. The method according to claim 6. The UE communication analysis includes one or more of an identifier of an N4 session between the first entity and at least one user plane function (UPF), or a value of a session inactivity timer. 7. The method of claim 6, characterized in that: The output analysis further includes network performance analysis;
7. The network performance analysis includes one or more of an average usage of allocated resources, or an average amount of network interruptions in a subset of regions during the analyzed period. Method. The input data comprises communication description information related to one or more of the first entity, at least one user plane function (UPF), or at least one access and mobility management function (AMF). 7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that: receiving from the second entity a request for session parameters related to a session between the first entity and a user plane function (UPF);
sending, by the first entity, a request for session reporting to the UPF;
receiving, by the first entity, the session parameters from the UPF;
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: transmitting the session parameters by the first entity to the second entity. Apparatus for the second entity to set the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including a first entity and a second entity providing network analysis, the second entity comprising:
transceiver and
a processor coupled to the transceiver;
The processor includes:
Obtaining input data including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE);
providing output analysis generated by the second entity based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session to the first entity;
The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the output analysis is used to determine whether to update an inactivity timer value for a data session. 13. Apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the processor is configured to carry out the method according to any one of claims 2 to 5. Apparatus for the first entity to set the value of an inactivity timer for transitioning between states of a data session in a network including the first entity and a second entity providing network analysis, the apparatus comprising:
transceiver and
a processor coupled to the transceiver;
The processor includes:
transmitting input data to the second entity including communication description information for at least one user equipment (UE);
receiving from the second entity an output analysis generated based on the input data and including a UE communication analysis for each data session;
determining a transition between states of the data session using an updated inactivity timer value for the data session based on the output analysis. 15. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the processor is configured to carry out a method according to any one of claims 7 to 11.

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