New analysis-based method for determining efficient redundant transmission mechanism for URLLC traffic

Abstract

According to an embodiment, a first network entity sends a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmissions to a second network entity. The first network entity receives the enhanced analysis output parameter from the second network entity. And the first network entity determines a mechanism of the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

Description

[0001] This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 396,487, filed on August 9, 2022, entitled “New Analytics Based Method to Decide Efficient Redundant Transmission Mechanism for URLLC Services,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if reproduced in full. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates generally to wireless communications and, in particular embodiments, to techniques and mechanisms for ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) services. Background Art

[0003] URLLC services are introduced to support 5G use cases such as autonomous driving, public safety, and remote surgery. End-to-end (E2E) delay and reliability are parameters of URLLC services. User data packets should be successfully transmitted within certain time limits to meet the requirements of end users. These parameters are affected not only by network capabilities but also by network configuration. In order to meet the high reliability requirements of URLLC services, in addition to supporting redundant transmission at the transport layer, 3GPP TS23.501 also specifies two different mechanisms to support redundant transmission of these services, including end-to-end redundant user plane paths based on dual connections and supporting redundant transmission on N3 / N9 interfaces. In any case, user packets are replicated and transmitted to the receiver simultaneously through two separate user plane paths. The redundant packets are then eliminated at the receiver side. Therefore, service failure can be avoided even if packet transmission on a certain path fails or exceeds the delay requirement.

[0004] The separate paths can be established via two separate protocol data unit (PDU) sessions (e.g., end-to-end) or via one PDU session but through two separate N3 / N9 tunnels. Based on the network scenario, the user equipment (UE), next generation radio access network (NG-RAN), and user plane function (UPF) can duplicate packets or eliminate duplicate packets. For example, if duplicate transmissions are made on the N3 / N9 interface, for each downlink packet of a quality of service (QoS) flow received by the PDU session anchor (PSA) UPF from the DN, the PSA UPF duplicates the packet and assigns the same GTP-U sequence number to it for redundant transmission. The NG-RAN eliminates duplicate packets based on the general packet radio service (GPRS) tunneling protocol user plane (GTP-U) sequence number and then forwards the PDU to the UE. For each uplink packet of a QoS flow received by NG-RAN from the UE, NG-RAN duplicates the packet and assigns it the same GTP-U sequence number for redundant transmission. PSA-UPF eliminates duplicate packets accordingly based on the GTP-U sequence number. Summary of the invention

[0005] The embodiments of the present invention describe methods and apparatus for efficient redundant transmission mechanisms for URLLC services, which generally achieve technical advantages.

[0006] According to an embodiment, a first network entity sends a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmission to a second network entity. The first network entity receives the enhanced analysis output parameters from the second network entity. The first network entity determines a mechanism for the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameters.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first network entity may include at least one of: a policy control function (PCF) or a session management function (SMF). The second network entity may include a network data analytics function (NWDAF).

[0008] In some embodiments, the first network entity may determine to activate or deactivate the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

[0009] In some embodiments, after determining to activate the redundant transmission, the first network entity may determine whether to update a user equipment (UE) route selection policy (URSP) rule for the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter. In some embodiments, after determining to update the URSP rule, the first network entity may update the URSP rule information for the redundant transmission. The first network entity may send the URSP rule information to a URSP rule policy formulation entity. In some embodiments, the URSP rule policy formulation entity may include a PCF.

[0010] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each of the primary path and the secondary path of the redundant transmission.

[0011] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each link in the links used for the redundant transmission. The links used for the redundant transmission may include at least one radio access network (RAN) link and at least one N3 link.

[0012] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis input parameter may be based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.The enhanced analysis input parameter may include RAN uplink (UL) packet delay or RAN downlink (DL) packet delay.

[0013] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may include at least one of the following: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next generation (NG)-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function (UPF), or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes.

[0014] According to an embodiment, a second network entity receives a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmissions from a first network entity. The second network entity collects enhanced analysis input parameters associated with the redundant transmissions. The second network entity sends the enhanced analysis output parameters to the first network entity.

[0015] In some embodiments, the second network entity may collect the enhanced analysis input parameters from at least one of: a policy control function (PCF), a session management function (SMF), a user plane function (UPF), operations, administration, and management (OAM), or an access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0016] In some embodiments, the first network entity may include at least one of: a policy control function (PCF) or a session management function (SMF). The second network entity may include a network data analytics function (NWDAF).

[0017] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each of the primary path and the secondary path of the redundant transmission.

[0018] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each link in the links used for the redundant transmission. The links used for the redundant transmission may include at least one radio access network (RAN) link and at least one N3 link.

[0019] In some embodiments, the second network entity may determine the enhanced analysis output parameter based on the enhanced analysis input parameter. The enhanced analysis input parameter may include RAN uplink (UL) packet delay or RAN downlink (DL) packet delay.

[0020] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may include at least one of the following: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next generation (NG)-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function (UPF), or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] For a more complete understanding of the present invention and its advantages, reference is made to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1A An exemplary communication system 100 is shown in accordance with some embodiments;

[0023] Figure 1B An exemplary network scenario of an end-to-end redundant user plane path based on dual connectivity according to some embodiments is shown;

[0024] Figure 2 An exemplary network scenario for redundant transmission over two N3 tunnels according to some embodiments is shown;

[0025] Figure 3 An exemplary network scenario for redundant transmission using two I-UPFs over two N3 tunnels and two N9 tunnels according to some embodiments is shown;

[0026] Figure 4A An exemplary flow of interaction between 5G entities according to some embodiments is shown;

[0027] Figure 4B An exemplary process for determining a redundant transmission mechanism and corresponding URSP update according to some embodiments is shown;

[0028] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of determining whether and / or what redundant transmission mechanism is needed according to some embodiments;

[0029] Figure 6 A flow chart illustrating an exemplary method of determining whether and / or what redundant transmission mechanism is needed according to some embodiments;

[0030] Fig. 7A A flow chart illustrating a method performed by a first network entity according to some embodiments;

[0031] Figure 7B A flow chart illustrating a method performed by a second network entity according to some embodiments;

[0032] Figure 8 An implementation communication system is shown;

[0033] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B An exemplary device is shown in which the methods and instructions according to the present invention may be implemented;

[0034] Fig.10 A block diagram of a computing system that may be used to implement the devices and methods disclosed herein is shown, according to some embodiments.

[0035] Unless otherwise indicated, corresponding numerals and symbols in the different figures generally refer to corresponding parts. These figures are drawn to clearly illustrate the relevant aspects of the embodiments and are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The making and use of embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein can be embodied in a variety of specific contexts, and the specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and modifications may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0037] Figure 1A An exemplary communication system 100 according to an embodiment is shown. The communication system 100 includes an access node 110 that serves user equipment (UE), such as UE 120, having a coverage area 101. In a first operating mode, communications to and from the UE pass through the access node 110 having the coverage area 101. The access node 110 is connected to a backhaul network 115 for connection to the Internet and for operations and management, etc. In a second operating mode, communications to and from the UE do not pass through the access node 110, however, the access node 110 typically allocates resources to the UE for communication when specific conditions are met. Communications between a pair of UEs 120 may use a sidelink connection (shown as two separate unidirectional connections 125). In Figure 1A In the embodiment, sidelink communication occurs between two UEs operating in the coverage area 101. However, sidelink communication may generally occur in the following situations: both UEs 120 are outside the coverage area 101; both UEs are inside the coverage area 101; or one UE is inside the coverage area 101 and the other UE is outside the coverage area 101. Communication between the UE and the access node pair is carried out through a unidirectional communication link, where the communication link between the UE and the access node is called an uplink 130, and the communication link between the access node and the UE is called a downlink 135.

[0038] Access nodes may also be generally referred to as NodeB, evolved NodeB (eNB), next generation (NG) NodeB (gNB), master eNB (MeNB), secondary eNB (SeNB), master gNB (MgNB), secondary gNB (SgNB), network controller, control node, base station, access point, transmission point (TP), transmission-reception point (TRP), cell, carrier, macro cell, femto cell, pico cell, etc., and UE may also be generally referred to as mobile station, mobile station, terminal, user, subscriber, site, etc. The access node may provide wireless access according to one or more wireless communication protocols, for example, third generation partnership project (3GPP) long term evolution (LTE), advanced LTE (LTE-A), 5G, 5G LTE, 5G NR, sixth generation communication technology (6G), high speed packet access (HSPA), IEEE 802.11 series standards, such as 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ad / ax / ay / be, etc. Although it can be understood that the communication system can adopt multiple access nodes capable of communicating with multiple UEs, for simplicity, only one access node and two UEs are shown.

[0039] The network data analytics function (NWDAF) is part of the 5G core (5GC) and uses the mechanisms and interfaces specified for the 5GC. NWDAF is a 5G network analytics producer that can interact with different entities to achieve different purposes. NWDAF can perform data collection from other 5G network functions (NF), application functions (AF), and operations, administration, and management (OAM). NWDAF can also retrieve information from data sources and provide analysis to network analysis users (e.g., other NFs, OAMs, UEs, and AFs) on demand. 3GPP specifies functions for performing model training and derivation analysis on NWDAF. NWDAF can include a model training logical function (MTLF) that trains machine learning (ML) models and exposes new training services (e.g., providing trained ML models). NWDAF may also include an analytics logical function (AnLF) that performs reasoning, derives analytics information (eg, derives statistics and / or predictions based on analytics user requests), and exposes analytics services (eg, Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription or Nnwdaf_AnalyticsInfo).

[0040] In order to support 5G NF to implement URLLC related network configuration based on 5G network AI / ML capabilities (specifically at NWDAF), 3GPP TS23.288 defines that analysis ID = "Redundant Transport Experience" is provided by NWDAF and consumed by other NFs such as session management function (SMF).

[0041] Figure 1B An exemplary network scenario of an end-to-end redundant user plane path based on dual connectivity according to some embodiments is shown.

[0042] To support high-reliability URLLC services, UE 152 may be allowed to establish two redundant PDU sessions on a 5G network with two separate user plane (UP) paths. For example, the first UP path may include a Uu interface 154, one or more primary NG-RAN nodes 156, an N3 tunnel 158, UPF 1 160, and an N6 tunnel 162 connected to a data network (DN) 164. The second UP path may include a Uu interface 166, one or more secondary NG-RAN nodes 168, an N3 tunnel 170, UPF2 172, and an N6 tunnel 174 connected to DN 164. In other words, two independent UP paths are established through two instances of UPF 160 and 172, and the two paths are connected to the same DN. In this case, user subscription information in the unified data management (UDM) provided to the SMF (e.g., SMF1 176 or SMF2 178) helps to identify whether UE 152 is allowed to have redundant PDU sessions. UE route selection policy (URSP) rules may be used to establish two redundant PDU sessions and allocate duplicate traffic for the same UE 152 application to these sessions.

[0043] If the reliability of the NG-RAN node, UPF and other NFs is high enough to meet the URLLC reliability requirements of the URLLC service, but the reliability of the N3 / N9 interface is not high enough, a redundant transmission mechanism can be performed only on the N3 and / or N9 interface, where N9 interface redundancy may be required if an intermediate UPF is used. However, a redundant path can be established through two independent N3 / N9s associated with a single PDU session. Redundant transmission through two N3 / N9 tunnels can be performed at the QoS flow granularity.

[0044] Figure 2 An example network scenario for redundant transmission over two N3 tunnels (eg, N3 tunnels 202 and 204 between NG-RAN 206 and UPF 208) is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0045] Figure 3 An exemplary network scenario is shown for redundant transmission over two N3 tunnels and two N9 tunnels (e.g., N3 tunnels 302 and 304, and N9 tunnels 312 and 314, where two intermediate UPFs (I-UPFs) (e.g., I-UPFs 322 and 324) can be used between the NG-RAN node 306 and the PSA UPF 308).

[0046] In addition to UE authorization data, network capability information and / or operator configuration, the SMF may also use analysis ID = "Redundant Transmission Experience" to determine whether redundant transmission can be performed, or whether redundant transmission can be stopped if it is already activated. However, it is not defined how the network (e.g., 5G NF) can utilize such analysis data to decide which redundant transmission option (from the above options) may be required. It is also not identified which information / parameters in the output analysis may help determine which redundant transmission mechanism may be more effective based on network statistics / predictions.

[0047] The current solution does not define or identify what NWDAF output analysis information can be used to select a more reliable mechanism from the specified redundant transmission mechanisms. Although existing solutions including 3GPP suggest that the SMF can use analysis ID = "redundant transmission experience" to determine whether redundant transmission can be performed or stopped, it does not specify how the SMF can use this analysis ID to decide which mechanism to activate. Although existing solutions including 3GPP suggest that URSP rules can be used to initiate redundant transmission requests at the UE, it has not yet been specified how the PCF uses analysis ID = "redundant transmission experience" to identify whether and which URSP rule updates are required.

[0048] The embodiment of the present invention describes a technical solution for enhancing redundant transmission experience analysis using new input and output parameters, so that a user of an analysis ID (e.g., SMF and / or policy control function (PCF)) can use the analysis ID to determine a more reliable redundant transmission mechanism or update redundant transmission options accordingly, for example, for a specific UE, a group of UEs, or a target area of ​​interest. The present invention also describes a technical solution including a process for defining interactions between 5G NFs (including but not limited to NWDAF, PCF, SMF, UPF, UE, and / or OAM), wherein an entity of the method can use enhanced analysis output data to determine an efficient redundant transmission mechanism based on network performance statistics and / or predictions.

[0049] In addition to new network experience parameters (e.g., RAN latency), embodiments of the present invention also describe how to add new parameters in the output analysis to identify a list of current and / or predicted primary and secondary NG-RAN nodes. The NWDAF can use the UE mobility information collected from the 5GC to calculate statistics for these parameters. Prediction values ​​can also be calculated based on the predicted UE location by leveraging the output analysis of the UE mobility prediction available in the NWDAF. These values ​​help to update the URSP rules based on the list of predicted / current primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes. In addition, in the case where the NG-RAN implements redundant user plane resources for two PDU sessions through two NG-RAN nodes, these parameters help in making decisions on end-to-end redundant user plane paths.

[0050] Table 4

[0051]

[0052] Table 4 shows exemplary input data related to redundant transmission analysis according to some embodiments. As shown in Table 4, the present invention defines new input data parameters, including QoS monitoring indicators and / or UL / DL packet RAN delays to be collected by NWDAF from other NFs (including but not limited to UPF and / or SMF). QoS monitoring in 5G is intended to assist URLLC services, where the SMF can activate end-to-end UL / DL packet delay measurement between the UE and the PSA UPF for a QoS flow during the PDU session establishment or modification process. The QoS monitoring indicator in Table 4 can identify whether QoS monitoring is activated in the SMF (for example, a value of '0' can indicate not activated, while '1' can indicate activated). NWDAF can use the new input data parameters to calculate statistical information and / or prediction parameters related to the redundant transmission experience of URLLC services. A description of each new parameter is provided in Table 4.

[0053] Table 5

[0054]

[0055] Table 5 shows exemplary output statistics related to redundant transmission analysis according to some embodiments. As shown in Table 5, the present invention also defines new statistical information parameters, which include primary RAN path redundant transmission experience (UE to primary NG-RAN), secondary (redundant) RAN path redundant transmission experience (UE to secondary NG-RAN), primary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience (NG-RAN to UPF), secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience (NG-RAN to UPF), a list of primary NG-RAN nodes and / or a list of secondary NG-RAN nodes. A description of each parameter is provided in the table. The experience value can be of NUM (number) type. For example, the experience value can be an experience level within a certain time period (for example, there are 5 levels, represented by 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, where level 1 indicates that the user experience is not good, and level 5 indicates that the user's needs are fully met).

[0056] Table 6

[0057]

[0058]

[0059] Table 6 shows exemplary output prediction data related to redundant transmission analysis according to some embodiments. As shown in Table 6, the present invention also defines new prediction parameters, which include primary RAN path redundant transmission experience (UE to primary NG-RAN), secondary (redundant) RAN path redundant transmission experience (UE to secondary NG-RAN), primary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience (NG-RAN to UPF), secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience (NG-RAN to UPF), a list of primary NG-RAN nodes and / or a list of secondary NG-RAN nodes. A description of each parameter is provided in Table 6. NWDAF AnLF and MTLF functions can be used to generate new output parameters. It is worth noting that the values ​​listed in Table 5 can indicate current statistical information, while the values ​​listed in Table 6 can indicate predicted values ​​and / or future values.

[0060] Figure 4A The exemplary process of executing the technical solution of the present invention through the interaction between 5G NF, AF, OAM and / or UE according to some embodiments is shown. The subscription interface, notification interface and / or modified versions of these interfaces standardized by 3GPP can be used in each operation of the interaction between each two entities here. Figure 4AAs shown, at operation 401, SMF 416 may request enhanced output analysis for redundant transmission experience from NWDAF 418, the enhanced output analysis including, for example, parameters listed in Table 5 and / or Table 6. SMF 416 may indicate analysis filter information, for example, a region of interest in the request, and NWDAF 418 may provide analysis according to the indicated analysis filter. At operations 402-1, 402-2, 402-3, and / or 402-4, NWDAF 418 may perform input data collection from SMF 424, OAM 426, and / or AF 428, respectively. The collected data may include, for example, the enhanced input data parameters of Table 4. At operation 403, NWDAF 418 may derive enhanced output analysis. At operation 404, NWDAF 418 may send enhanced analysis data to SMF 416 and / or any other user. In some embodiments, the SMF may be used as a source when providing input data (e.g., information of Table 4) to NWDAF 418, and may also be used as an analytics consumer when receiving output analytics (e.g., information of Table 5 and / or Table 6) from NWDAF 418. Thus, SMF 416 and SMF 424 may be the same SMF. For example, Nnwdaf_AnalyticsInfo_Response / Nnwdaf_AnalyticsSubscription_Notify may be used to expose analytics information to the SMF, and / or Nsmf_EventExposure_Subscribe / Nsmf_EventExposure_Notify may be used to provide input data from the SMF to NWDAF 418.

[0061] At operation 405, SMF 416 may use the enhanced analysis data to determine whether and / or what redundancy mechanism is needed. At operation 406, SMF may share its decision information with PCF 414, and at operation 407, PCF 414 may accordingly decide to update the URSP rules based on the received decision information. At operation 408, existing 3GPP processes and / or modified versions thereof may be followed to establish redundant transport PDU sessions based on SMF decision information and / or PCF URSP rules. NWDAF 418 may be modified to collect enhanced input data and provide enhanced output analysis. SMF 416 may also be modified to support the collection of new output analysis parameters from NWDAF 416 and use these output analysis parameters when deciding what redundant transport mechanism should be executed. PCF 414 may be modified to support processing SMF decision information and utilizing this information in URSP rules associated with end-to-end redundant user plane paths based on dual connectivity.

[0062] Figure 4BAn exemplary process for determining a redundant transmission mechanism and corresponding URSP update according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 4B At operation 451 of TS23.288, the Figure 6 .Steps 1 to 7 of .13.4.1-1, wherein NWDAF 468 may collect enhanced input data from SMF 474 and generate enhanced output data.

[0063] At operation 452, the SMF 466 determines whether and what redundancy mechanisms are required based on the enhanced output analysis. The SMF 466 may use enhanced analysis parameters (statistics / prediction) (including primary N3 tunnel redundant transmission experience and secondary N3 tunnel redundant transmission experience) to determine whether redundant N3 / N9 tunnels are required. The SMF 466 may also use RAN-related enhanced parameters (including primary RAN path redundant transmission experience, secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience, a list of one or more primary NG-RAN nodes, and a list of one or more secondary NG-RAN nodes) to determine whether redundant transmission between the UE 62 and the NG-RAN is required, and which NG-RAN node or nodes should be implemented to establish a redundant session.

[0064] At operation 453, the SMF 466 sends an indication for URSP rule update to the PCF 464 according to the determined redundancy mechanism.

[0065] At operation 454, PCF 464 updates the URSP rules based on the SMF information about the determined redundant transport mechanism. It is worth noting that at operation 454, PCF 464 can also use other analysis IDs, such as analysis ID = "DN performance" or analysis ID = "load level information" to determine a better data network name (DNN) or slice instance for the redundant transport mechanism.

[0066] At operation 455, the UE configuration update procedure specified in TS 23.502 is followed.

[0067] Figure 5 1 is a flow chart showing an exemplary method of determining whether and / or what redundant transmission mechanism is needed according to some embodiments. Figure 5As shown, at operation 501, an analysis user (e.g., SMF) may request enhanced analysis (e.g., analysis with parameters in Table 5 and / or Table 6) from an analysis provider (e.g., NWDAF). The analysis user may indicate analysis filter information, such as an area of ​​interest in the request. At operation 502, the analysis provider may collect enhanced input data (e.g., parameters in Table 4) from associated sources (e.g., SMF, OAM, and / or other sources, etc.). At operation 503, the analysis provider may derive enhanced analysis and share it with the analysis user. At operation 504, it is determined whether redundant transmission is required. In the case where redundant transmission is required, at operation 505, it is also determined whether a URSP rule update is required based on the determined redundant mechanism. In the case where a URSP rule update is required, at operation 506, the URSP rule policy maker (e.g., PCF) may update the URSP rule accordingly. At operation 507, the network may establish a PDU session for the determined redundant transmission mechanism.

[0068] Figure 6 1 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method to be performed at a network analysis user (eg, SMF) to determine whether and / or what redundant transmission mechanism is needed according to some embodiments. Figure 6 As shown, at operation 601, the analysis user may request and / or use enhanced analysis (e.g., analysis with parameters in Table 5 and / or Table 6) from an analysis provider (e.g., NWDAF). At operation 602, it is determined whether redundant transmission is required. In the case where redundant transmission is required, at operation 603, it is also determined whether a URSP rule update is required based on the determined redundant mechanism. In the case where a URSP rule update is required, at operation 504, the analysis user may notify a URSP rule policy maker (e.g., PCF). At operation 505, the analysis user may support the establishment of a PDU session for the determined redundant transmission mechanism.

[0069] Fig. 7A A flow chart of a method 700 performed by a first network entity according to some embodiments is shown. The first network entity may include computer readable code or instructions executed on one or more processors of the first network entity. In the present invention, the encoding of software for performing or executing the method 700 is within the scope of ordinary skill in the art. The method 700 may include more or fewer operations than shown and described, and may be performed or executed in a different order. The computer readable code or instructions of the software executable by one or more processors may be stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as a memory of the first network entity.

[0070] Method 700 begins at operation 702, where a first network entity sends a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmission to a second network entity. At operation 704, the first network entity receives the enhanced analysis output parameters from the second network entity. At operation 706, the first network entity determines a mechanism for redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameters.

[0071] The first network entity is a network node, a network component or a network module in a core network, for example, a 5G New Radio (NR) core network, a sixth-generation (6G) wireless core network or a next-generation wireless core network. In some embodiments, the first network entity may include at least one of the following in the core network: a policy control function (PCF) and a session management function (SMF). The second network entity may include a network data analytics function (NWDAF) or any other network node that provides network data analysis.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first network entity may determine to activate or deactivate redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

[0073] In some embodiments, after determining to activate redundant transmission, the first network entity may determine whether to update a user equipment (UE) route selection policy (URSP) rule for redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter. In some embodiments, after determining to update the URSP rule, the first network entity may update the URSP rule information for the redundant transmission. The first network entity may send the URSP rule information to the URSP rule policy formulation entity. In some embodiments, the URSP rule policy formulation entity may include a PCF.

[0074] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may be for each of the primary and secondary paths of the redundant transmission.

[0075] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each link in the links used for redundant transmission. The links used for redundant transmission may include at least one radio access network (RAN) link and at least one N3 link.

[0076] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be based on the enhanced analysis input parameter. The enhanced analysis input parameter may include RAN uplink (UL) packet delay or RAN downlink (DL) packet delay.

[0077] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may include at least one of: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next generation (NG)-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function (UPF), or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes.

[0078] Figure 7B A flow chart of a method 750 performed by a second network entity according to some embodiments is shown. The second network entity may include computer readable code or instructions executed on one or more processors of the second network entity. In the present invention, the encoding of software for performing or executing method 750 is within the scope of ordinary skill in the art. Method 750 may include more or fewer operations than shown and described, and may be performed or executed in a different order. The computer readable code or instructions of the software executable by one or more processors may be stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as a memory of the second network entity.

[0079] Method 750 begins at operation 752, where the second network entity receives a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmissions from the first network entity. At operation 754, the second network entity collects enhanced analysis input parameters associated with the redundant transmissions. At operation 756, the second network entity sends the enhanced analysis output parameters to the first network entity.

[0080] In some embodiments, the second network entity may collect enhanced analysis input parameters from at least one of: a policy control function (PCF), a session management function (SMF), a user plane function (UPF), operations, administration, and management (OAM), or an access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0081] In some embodiments, the first network entity may include at least one of the following: a policy control function (PCF) or a session management function (SMF). The second network entity may include a network data analytics function (NWDAF).

[0082] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may be for each of the primary and secondary paths of the redundant transmission.

[0083] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameter may be for each link in the links used for redundant transmission. The links used for redundant transmission may include at least one radio access network (RAN) link and at least one N3 link.

[0084] In some embodiments, the second network entity may determine the enhanced analysis output parameter based on the enhanced analysis input parameter. The enhanced analysis input parameter may include RAN uplink (UL) packet delay or RAN downlink (DL) packet delay.

[0085] In some embodiments, the enhanced analysis output parameters may include at least one of: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next generation (NG)-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function (UPF), or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes.

[0086] Figure 8An exemplary communication system 800 is shown. In general, the system 800 enables multiple wireless or wired users to send and receive data and other content. The system 800 can implement one or more channel access methods, such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal FDMA (OFDMA), single-carrier FDMA (SC-FDMA), or non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA).

[0087] In this example, the communication system 800 includes electronic devices (ED) 810a to 810c, radio access networks (RAN) 820a and 820b, a core network 830, a public switched telephone network (PSTN) 840, the Internet 850, and other networks 860. Figure 8 A certain number of these components or elements are shown in FIG. 8 , but any number of these components or elements may be included in system 800 .

[0088] EDs 810a to 810c are used to operate or communicate in the system 800. For example, EDs 810a to 810c are used to transmit or receive through a wireless or wired communication channel. Each ED 810a to 810c represents any suitable end-user device and may include (or may be referred to as) the following devices: user equipment / device (UE), wireless transmit or receive unit (WTRU), mobile station, fixed or mobile subscriber unit, cellular phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), smart phone, laptop, computer, touch pad, wireless sensor or consumer electronic device.

[0089] Here, the RAN 820a and 820b include base stations 870a and 870b, respectively. Each base station 870a and 870b is used to wirelessly connect to one or more of the EDs 810a to 810c so as to access the core network 830, the PSTN 840, the Internet 850 or other networks 860. For example, the base stations 870a and 870b may include (or may be) one or more of several well-known devices, such as a base transceiver station (BTS), a NodeB (NodeB), an evolved NodeB (eNB), a next generation (NG) NodeB (NG NodeB, gNB), a gNB centralized unit (gNB-CU), a gNB distributed unit (gNB-DU), a home base station (Home NodeB), a home eNodeB, a site controller, an access point (AP) or a wireless router. EDs 810 a to 810 c are used to connect and communicate with the Internet 850 , and may access a core network 830 , a PSTN 840 , or other networks 860 .

[0090] exist Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, base station 870a forms part of RAN 820a, which may include other base stations, elements or devices. In addition, base station 870b forms part of RAN 820b, which may include other base stations, elements or devices. Each base station 870a and 870b is used to operate within a specific geographic area (sometimes referred to as a "cell") to send or receive wireless signals. In some embodiments, if each cell has multiple transceivers, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology can be used.

[0091] Base stations 870a and 870b communicate with one or more of EDs 810a-810c using wireless communication links over one or more air interfaces 890. Air interfaces 890 may use any suitable radio access technology.

[0092] It is contemplated that the system 800 may use multi-channel access capabilities, including those described above. In a specific embodiment, the base station and ED implement 5G New Radio (NR), LTE, LTE-A, or LTE-B. Of course, other multiple access schemes and wireless protocols may also be used.

[0093] RAN 820a and 820b communicate with core network 830 to provide voice, data, applications, voice over internet protocol (VoIP) or other services to ED 810a to 810c. It is understood that RAN 820a and 820b or core network 830 can communicate directly or indirectly with one or more other RANs (not shown). Core network 830 can also be used as a gateway access for other networks (e.g., PSTN 840, Internet 850, and other networks 860). In addition, some or all of ED 810a to 810c can communicate with different wireless networks through different wireless links using different wireless technologies or protocols. ED can communicate with service providers or switches (not shown) and with Internet 850 through wired communication channels instead of wireless communication (or wireless communication in addition).

[0094] Although Figure 8 An example of a communication system is shown, but the Figure 8 Various modifications are possible. For example, communication system 800 may include any number of EDs, base stations, networks, or other components in any suitable configuration.

[0095] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B An exemplary device is shown in which the methods and instructions according to the present invention can be implemented. Specifically, Fig.9A An exemplary ED 910 is shown, Fig. 9B An exemplary base station 970 is shown. These components may be used in system 800 or any other suitable system.

[0096] like Fig.9A As shown, ED 910 includes at least one processing unit 900. Processing unit 900 implements various processing operations of ED 910. For example, processing unit 900 can perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other function that enables ED 910 to operate in system 800. Processing unit 900 also supports the methods and instructions described in detail above. Each processing unit 900 includes any suitable processing or computing device for performing one or more operations. Each processing unit 900 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a field programmable gate array or an application-specific integrated circuit, etc.

[0097] ED 910 also includes at least one transceiver 902. Transceiver 902 is used to modulate data or other content for transmission through at least one antenna or network interface controller (NIC) 904. Transceiver 902 is also used to demodulate data or other content received by at least one antenna 904. Each transceiver 902 includes any suitable structure for generating a signal for wireless or wired transmission or for processing a signal received by wireless or wired means. Each antenna 904 includes any suitable structure for sending or receiving a wireless signal or a wired signal. One or more transceivers 902 can be used for ED 910, and one or more antennas 904 can be used for ED 910. Although transceiver 902 is shown as a separate functional unit, transceiver 902 can also be implemented using at least one transmitter and at least one separate receiver.

[0098] ED 910 also includes one or more input / output devices 906 or interfaces (e.g., a wired interface connection to the Internet 850). Input / output devices 906 facilitate interaction with users or other devices in a network (network communications). Each input / output device 906 includes any suitable structure for providing information to or receiving information from a user, such as a speaker, microphone, keypad, keyboard, display, or touch screen, including network interface communications.

[0099] In addition, the ED 910 includes at least one memory 908. The memory 908 stores instructions and data used, generated, or collected by the ED 910. For example, the memory 908 can store software or firmware instructions executed by one or more processing units 900, as well as store data for reducing or eliminating interference in incoming signals. Each memory 908 includes any suitable one or more volatile or non-volatile storage and retrieval devices. Any suitable type of memory can be used, for example, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), hard disk, optical disk, subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory stick, secure digital (SD) memory card, etc.

[0100] like Fig. 9BAs shown, the base station 970 includes at least one processing unit 950, at least one transceiver 952 (including the functions of a transmitter and a receiver), one or more antennas 956, at least one memory 958, and one or more input / output devices or interfaces 966. A scheduler that can be understood by those skilled in the art is coupled to the processing unit 950. The scheduler can be included in the base station 970 or can be operated separately from the base station 970. The processing unit 950 implements various processing operations of the base station 970, such as signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or any other function. The processing unit 950 can also support the methods and instructions described in detail above. Each processing unit 950 includes any suitable processing or computing device for performing one or more operations. Each processing unit 950 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a field programmable gate array or an application-specific integrated circuit, etc.

[0101] Each transceiver 952 includes any suitable structure for generating a signal for wireless or wired transmission with one or more EDs or other devices. Each transceiver 952 also includes any suitable structure for processing a signal received wirelessly or wired from one or more EDs or other devices. Although the transmitter and receiver are shown as a combination of transceivers 952, they can be separate components. Each antenna 956 includes any suitable structure for sending or receiving wireless signals or wired signals. Although a shared antenna 956 is shown coupled to the transceiver 952, one or more antennas 956 can be coupled to one or more transceivers 952 so that a separate antenna 956 is coupled to the transmitter and receiver (if configured as a separate component). Each memory 958 includes any suitable one or more volatile or non-volatile storage and retrieval devices. Each input / output device 966 helps to interact with users or other devices in the network (network communication). Each input / output device 966 includes any suitable structure for providing information to a user or receiving / providing information from a user, including network interface communication.

[0102] Fig.10A block diagram of a computing system 1000 that can be used to implement the devices and methods disclosed herein is shown. For example, the computing system can be any entity in a UE, an access network (AN), a mobility management (MM), a session management (SM), a user plane gateway (UPGW), or an access stratum (AS). A specific device may use all of the components shown or only a subset of the components, and the level of integration may vary from device to device. In addition, a device may include multiple instances of a component, such as multiple processing units, processors, memories, transmitters, receivers, etc. The computing system 1000 includes a processing unit 1002. The processing unit includes a central processing unit (CPU) 1014, a memory 1008, and may also include a mass storage device 1004, a video adapter 1010, and an I / O interface 1012 connected to a bus 1020.

[0103] Bus 1020 may be one or more of any type of several bus architectures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, or a video bus. CPU 1014 may include any type of electronic data processor. Memory 1008 may include any type of non-transient system memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), read-only memory (ROM), or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, memory 1008 may include a ROM for use at startup, and a DRAM for storing programs and data used when executing programs.

[0104] The mass storage 1004 may include any type of non-transitory storage device for storing data, programs, and other information and making the data, programs, and other information accessible via the bus 1020. The mass storage 1004 may include one or more of a solid-state drive, a hard disk drive, a magnetic disk drive, or an optical disk drive, etc.

[0105] The video adapter 1010 and the I / O interface 1012 provide interfaces for coupling external input and output devices to the processing unit 1002. As shown, examples of input and output devices include a display 1018 coupled to the video adapter 1010 and a mouse, keyboard, or printer 1016 coupled to the I / O interface 1012. Other devices may be coupled to the processing unit 1002, and additional or fewer interface cards may be used. For example, a serial interface such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) (not shown) may be used to provide an interface for external devices.

[0106] The processing unit 1002 also includes one or more network interfaces 1006, which may include wired links (e.g., Ethernet cables) or wireless links to access nodes or different networks. The network interface 1006 enables the processing unit 1002 to communicate with remote units over a network. For example, the network interface 1006 can provide wireless communication through one or more transmitters / transmit antennas and one or more receivers / receive antennas. In one embodiment, the processing unit 1002 is coupled to a local area network 1022 or a wide area network for processing data and communicating with remote devices such as other processing units, the Internet, or remote storage facilities.

[0107] It should be understood that one or more steps of the embodiment method provided herein can be performed by corresponding units or modules. For example, a signal can be sent by a sending unit or a sending module. A signal can be received by a receiving unit or a receiving module. A signal can be processed by a processing unit or a processing module. Other steps can be performed by an execution unit or a module, a generation unit or a module, an acquisition unit or a module, a setting unit or a module, an adjustment unit or a module, an increase unit or a module, a reduction unit or a module, a determination unit or a module, a modification unit or a module, a reduction unit or a module, a removal unit or a module, or a selection unit or a module. The corresponding unit / module can be hardware, software, or a combination thereof. For example, one or more units or modules can be an integrated circuit, for example, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0108] Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations could be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A method, characterized in that include: The first network entity of the wireless core network sends a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmission to the network data analysis function NWDAF; The first network entity receives the enhanced analysis output parameter from the NWDAF; The first network entity determines the redundant transmission mechanism based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The first network entity includes at least one of the following: a policy control function PCF or a session management function SMF.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The determination mechanism includes: The first network entity determines to activate or deactivate the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that The determination mechanism includes: After determining to activate the redundant transmission, the first network entity determines whether to update a user equipment UE routing selection policy URSP rule for the redundant transmission based on the enhanced analysis output parameter.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The determination mechanism includes: After determining to update the URSP rule, the first network entity updates the redundantly transmitted URSP rule information; The first network entity sends the URSP rule information to a URSP rule policy formulation entity.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that The URSP rule policy formulation entity includes a policy control function PCF.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameter is for each path in the primary path and the secondary path of the redundant transmission.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameter is for each link in the links used for the redundant transmission, and the links used for the redundant transmission include at least one radio access network RAN ​​link and at least one N3 link.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The enhanced analysis output parameter is based on an enhanced analysis input parameter, which includes a RAN uplink UL packet delay or a RAN downlink DL packet delay.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameters include at least one of the following: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next-generation NG-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function UPF, or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes.

11. A method, characterized in that include: The network data analysis function NWDAF receives a request for enhanced analysis output parameters associated with redundant transmissions from a first network entity of the wireless core network; The NWDAF collects enhanced analysis input parameters associated with the redundant transmission; The NWDAF sends the enhanced analysis output parameter to the first network entity.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The collection includes: The NWDAF collects the enhanced analysis input parameters from at least one of the following: a policy control function PCF, a session management function SMF, a user plane function UPF, an operation management and maintenance OAM or an access and mobility management function AMF.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The first network entity includes at least one of the following: a policy control function PCF or a session management function SMF.

14. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameter is for each path in the primary path and the secondary path of the redundant transmission.

15. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameter is for each link in the links used for the redundant transmission, and the links used for the redundant transmission include at least one radio access network RAN ​​link and at least one N3 link.

16. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that Also includes: The NWDAF determines the enhanced analysis output parameter based on the enhanced analysis input parameter.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that The enhanced analysis input parameter includes RAN uplink UL packet delay or RAN downlink DL packet delay.

18. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The enhanced analysis output parameters include at least one of the following: a prediction of the primary / secondary RAN path redundant transmission experience between the UE and the primary / secondary next-generation NG-RAN, a prediction of the primary / secondary N3 tunnel path redundant transmission experience from the NG-RAN to the user plane function UPF, or a list of one or more primary / secondary NG-RAN nodes.

19. A network entity, characterized in that: include: at least one processor; A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program, the program comprising instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network entity to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

20. A network data analysis function, characterized in that: include: at least one processor; A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program, the program comprising instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network data analysis function to perform the method according to any one of claims 11 to 18.

Images